ã€ŠI Reincarnated As A Stickã€‹


 Chapter 1 - Prologue

    In a certain location found in the vast space constituting the universe, one could find a part of it act as a separate dimension. This so-called dimension houses multiple beings that wield power on the levels of gods. Of course, that was because these beings are actual, living, breathing gods. It is only known by a singr name, which was the Celestial ne. Within a certain part of this ne, one would find a floating white cube.

    Inside this cube was a woman whose appearance and body could be said to have reached the pinnacle of beauty. It was if she was made out of finely chiselled marble,plimenting the white walls inside the cube. Her hair was pitch-ck, mesmerizing like the void that constituted the majority of space. On the other hand, her irises and lips were of a crimson red hue, making anyone that looked at it feel like she was seducing them.

    Then again, she wore a white dress which seemed to bnce out those characteristics, radiating an aura that made her look like a radiant goddess of purity. However, she was no radiant goddess of purity at all, with her personality that could be summed up in one word, bipr1.

    There were times where she would act sweet and lovable, radiating an aura that made anyone want to rely on her. There were also times where she would indifferently torture living beings, either for pleasure, entertainment, or to stave off boredom. She would unhesitatingly put them in a living hell, ignoring the incessant curses that came out of the mouths of which she tortured.

    Of course, there were also times where she would show both sides at once, putting living beings in a state of confusion, making one wonder which one was the real her. Taking her name into consideration, one would surely think that that personality quite suited her.

    Her name was Kurohana, a being well known as the goddess that had superb control over the Law of Reincarnation.

    At this moment, she was currently looking through a ss orb she had bought from somewhere, scanning through the nigh-infinite amount of living beings dotted throughout the whole universe. The reason as to why she was doing this was because she needed a suitable living being to be the main soul of her future masterwork weapon. A weapon that would allow her to wield power surpassing her peers of the same level.

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    Just as she was swiping left to the next living being on her ss orb, the image that was being shown on the orb had transformed into darkness in an instant, with a few words appearing not long after.

    "Hmm¡­? Lumina wants to call me?" Kurohana could not help but wonder as to why a goddess on the same level as her would call her at this time, seeing as the Celestial ne was in a state of peace. Nevertheless, she epted the request, the sight of a cute woman that looked like she was in her twenties appearing on Kurohana''s orb soon after.

    "Yoohoo~! It''s been a while since Ist saw you, Kurohana~" The energetic voice of Lumina started to resound from the orb, making Kurohana scratch her head as she replied soon after, "We met like a few hours ago in the Hall of Greater Divinity, Lumina. Anyways, what''s the reason for calling me?"

    "You know me very well, right~?" Lumina asked in response, before continuing, "I have a lot of connections throughout the Celestial ne, especially the gods at the same level as us."

    "Yeah, yeah, yeah," Kurohana replied in slight annoyance, waving her hand to and fro as she added, "Get to the point."

    "Well, I''ve heard some rumors from the other gods that some low-level demons have been invading their private worlds. Just wanted to tell you that you should make sure that your world is free from demons, seeing as you''re one of the best cksmiths in the Celestial ne," Lumina decided to not beat around the bush this time, getting straight to the point with a light smile on her face. "I also wanted to tell you that if you need help setting up protection from those demons, you should call me sometime. My control over the Law of Light is not something to scoff at, you know~"

    "I''ll keep that in mind," Kurohana responded after a few seconds of silence, ending the call between them abruptly without saying farewell. She then sat in silence for a while, pondering over Lumina''s words as she softly muttered, "Since only low-level demons are attacking, for now, I shouldn''t worry that much."

    "Let''s get back to searching a suitable soul for the main material of my magnum opus." After saying that, she went back to looking through a list of suitable living beings on her ss orb, eventually stopping on a certain living being with a slight grin on her face.

    "Hoh? That kind of experience¡­will surely be invaluable."

    "You''ll be the one then."

    ¡­

    Bang!

    As if it was some sort of heavenly judgment, the house of a certain person was struck by a huge bolt of lightning, around twenty times as big as a normal bolt. Due to the size of the lightning bolt, it was a given that the house would be turned into charred bits and ashes¡­as well as the person who lived in it.

    Whoosh!

    A few seconds after the lightning strike, an incorporeal blob gradually manifested over the huge pile of ashes and charred bits, an aura of confusion radiating from it.

    "What the heck happened?" At this moment, the incorporeal blob was still quite clueless as to what had happened, only realizing what had happened after looking at its surroundings.

    "¡­" After looking at his house, which resembled andscape bombarded with nukes, Aurus was at a loss for words. He also tried to look for his body, to which he had failed to do so. Eventually, Aurus let out a sigh muttering to himself, "Is this my punishment for ying ISE too much? If so, don''t you think this is too much of an overkill, heaven?"

    The acronym that Aurus had mentioned was the MMORPG he had poured most of his time and effort into for quite a great portion of his life, named Infinite Stick Evolution. Although the name of the game sounded quite grand, it had lived up to its name, allowing yers to y with an individualistic style, with there being near-infinite possibilities. This was what drew Aurus into the world of ISE since the infinite possibilities of the game made him feel like he was the main character of the web novels he had read back then.

    "If I knew that I was going to be punished, I would''ve tried to reach the existence level of Divinity far earlier," Aurus said to himself, slightly filled with regrets. "I wonder what''s going to happen to me next?"

    Just as he asked this question, an invisible vortex appeared a small distance away from Aurus, sucking Aurus in with a faint swoop sound. Although he did not know that he was sucked into a vortex, the feeling of something pushing and pulling on his body made him quite nauseated. This feeling also made him realize that something rted to his body was happening, though he could not figure out what it was. Fortunately, that sensation onlysted a short time, with Aurus appearing in a ce that was distant from where he was a few moments ago.

    While calming down his senses after going through such a nauseating experience, Aurus could not help but steal a few nces at the surroundings, slightly shocked inside that everywhere he looked was pure white. The walls, the ceiling, the floor, hell even the girl in front of him was pure white.

    Wait a second¡­a girl?

    "Who are you?" Although he was quite confused as to where he was, seeing as there was a human in front of him, he could not help but be vignt.

    As for the girl in front of him, she could not help but lightly chuckle at Aurus'' question, replying with a light smile, "I''m Kurohana, the Greater Goddess of Reincarnation. You''re currently in my haven, this big white space you''re currently looking at."

    "Wait¡­what?" Hearing the girl''s response, Aurus could not help but be confused. "You''re the Greater Goddess of Reincarnation? And this white space thing is your haven?"

    "Yep." Kurohana nodded in response.

    "Am I dreaming or something? Is this death of mine a dream in disguise?" Realizing how farfetched his current situation was, Aurus could not help but mutter.

    Fwoosh!

    In an instant, an overbearing aura radiated from Kurohana, making Aurus feel like he was in an area where the only two beings that existed there were him and Kurohana. Not only that, the feeling of imminent death even radiated from her body, also making Aurus wonder as to what he had done wrong.

    Fortunately, that onlysted for a short while as Kurohana asked, "Is this enough proof for you to realize you''re not dreaming?"

    "Y-yeah," Aurus hastily replied, slightly afraid of Kurohana.

    Nheless, Aurus had no idea as to why he was brought here and so, mustering his courage, he asked her, "A-anyways, why did you bring me here?"

    "I have brought you here to give you another shot at life," Kurohana replied to his question, before adding, "You have two choices to choose from."

    Raising one finger, she continued, "The first choice is for you to be reborn through the six paths of reincarnation, which means that the chances of you bing one of the six is equal. A celestial, an angel, a human, an animal, a ghost, or an asura, it''s basically up to luck if you get reborn as a human again."

    "What about the second choice?" Aurus could not help but ask, his opinion of the first choice being bad. Of course, if the second choice given to him was worse, then he''d pick the first one.

    Raising another finger, she answered Aurus'' question. "The second choice, although you won''t be reborn as a human, you would have a way to be human. That is¡­"

    "You would be reborn as a stick."

    "¡­" Aurus was silent for a bit before responding, "Are you mocking me because I''ve been ying a game about sticks for a great portion of my life?"

    "No, not at all," Kurohana shook her head with a smile. "To be honest, I think that it''s quite nice, seeing your devotion towards one game makes me think you''re a hard worker."

    Obtaining a rarepliment from a goddess rather than an insult, Aurus'' fear towards Kurohana slightly lessened as he looked at her in a slightly new perspective. Nevertheless, he had a question in mind rted to the second choice.

    "Say I choose the second choice. What can I do as a stick? Just hope to be swept away by the wind? If that''s the case, how would I turn into a human?" Aurus asked her, to which Kurohana replied with, "And this is why I praised you for your devotion towards that game."

    "I''ll be giving you two bonuses if you choose the second choice. Both being rted to the game you were ying," Kurohana added.

    Hearing that there was a bonus if he chose the second choice, and not only was it one bonus but two, and those two bonuses were both rted to ISE, Aurus could not help but ask, "May I ask what those two bonuses are?"

    "The first bonus will allow you to live your life like you''re ying the game," Kurohana replied with a light smile. "Since you''ve reached quite a high level in the game, you have an idea why I told you it will give you a way to be human, right?"

    "Mm." Although Aurus just responded with a short grunt, he was quite eager to choose the second choice in his mind. Living his life like a game, that was just a dreame true for him!

    "How about the second bonus?" he continued to ask, to which Kurohana replied with, "The second bonus is rted to the speed of your improvement. Hmm¡­using the terms from the game you y¡­the experience you need to level up your skills will be halved¡­is that correct?"

    "I CHOOSE THE SECOND CHOICE! I''VE DECIDED!" Aurus shouted without hesitation after hearing what the second bonus had in store for him. Although he would have chosen the second choice even with just the first bonus, he knew that with the second bonus, he would be able to get back to his previous standing at a faster speed¡­as well as live it out.

    "I see." Kurohana nodded in response with a smile, before making a few gestures with both of her hands, glowing threads of formless energy appearing around Aurus'' incorporeal blob not long after. These threads then transformed into a bubble that covered Aurus, the light they gave out gradually intensifying.

    With the bubble of formless energy surrounding Aurus'' body, Kurohana finished making gestures with her fingers before saying, "Well then. Let me congratte you on being reborn as a stick. I also wish you the very best of luck!"

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    Just before the bubble of formless energy radiated light that covered the whole inside of Kurohana''s space, Aurus shouted out two words.

    "Thank you!"

    Whoosh!

    Soon after saying that, the bubble of formless energy had disappeared from Kurohana''s space. Any trace of Aurus being in her space was gone as well.

    At this moment, Kurohana let out a sigh before snapping her fingers, conjuring a chair that she sat on soon after. Afterward, she willed the ss orb she was using a while ago toe close to her.

    "Hehehe." As she gestured with her hands one more time, infusing a bit of energy towards the ss orb in front of her, a grin could be seen on her face.

    "And with that, let''s start the nurturing process, shall we?"  Her personality is bipr.. Please do not confuse with bipr disorder.

 Chapter 2 - The System

    After a long while, Aurus felt that he hit something hard.

    "Ouch," he couldn''t help but say.

    But although he said that, his voice couldn''t be heard at all. It was as if it echoed within him.

    "Well... that''s weird, I feel like I can speak as much as I want, but I can''t hear anything."

    At this moment, he tried to look at his surroundings, only to fail in vain. The reason behind this was that...everything around him was pitch ck!

    "Haah...is there any way to see?"

    As this question popped up in his mind, a notification sound could be heard going off in his head.

    Ding!

    ''[Soul Perception I] has been unlocked.''

    Whoosh!

    As if the colors started to coalesce towards Aurus'' eyes, the pitch ck surroundings turned into a myriad of colors that would make it seem like the situation a while ago was only dream.

    "Agh!" Though it wasn''t for Aurus. Being bombarded with a ton of colors all of a sudden made him feel like his eyes were going to tear apart. But for some reason, he felt nothing although he shouted in reflex.

    After a while, the colors dimmed down, allowing him to see everything around him. Taking his first nce at what surrounded him, he felt like this ce was familiar.

    But in actuality, it really is familiar to him.

    Recalling all of the thoughts in memory that were surprisingly not wiped by Kurohana, a distant memory from his past surfaced in his mind.

    "Are you...serious?"

    Aurus couldn''t believe it at all. The distant memory that surfaced was a time when multiple little branches tried to do whatever they can to progress in terms of level or skill. Although what surrounded Aurus now was not sticks but instead grass, the trees, rocks, and everything else was exceptionally simr to the ones in his memory.

    "If my guess is right, this is...the Forest of Beginnings."

    The Forest of Beginnings, the first ce yers would arrive at when they start ying Infinite Stick Evolution. To others, it was a hellish time since everyone did whatever they could. But for Aurus, it just gave him a nostalgic feeling.

    "Well...since I''m at the Forest of Beginnings, that means I have been reborn into...the world of Erudinia."

    Erudinia, the world where ISE is based in, is surprisingly where Aurus is reborn. He didn''t know why Kurohana did this, but he wanted to say thanks at least.

    After looking at his surroundings, he turned his attention to his body. As said earlier, Aurus would be reborn as a stick. And as expected, he was indeed reborn as a stick.

    Although there were different types of sticks since they came from different species of trees, Aurus didn''t bother to care about what type of stick he was since he would eventually find out once he leveled up.

    "Speaking of which...if I was reborn into the world of Erudinia as a stick, does that mean that I have a system?"

    Although you may not hear this Aurus, you definitely have a system. Didn''t you hear the notification sound from before?

    "Wait..." Aurus started to process what happened before he could see. "I heard a notification sound and some voices and then all of a sudden, I could see everything around me."

    Once he realized his current situation, his nonexistent eyes gleamed. "Could it be...?"

    Ding!

    ''The [Existence Evolution System] has been enabled.''

    ''Setting user [Aurus] as the owner of the system.''

    Hearing the voices that echoed in his mind, Aurus felt ted to know that the system in ISE was given to him.

    "Is this the bonus Kurohana wanted to give me? If so, then this is a really good bonus."

    Although he wanted to be reborn as a stick, he wasn''t sure what he wanted to do when he was reborn. But since he obtained the system from the game, he felt that his life had a direction now.

    "First of all, since I have the system, I''ll have to be a God-tier existence once more. I only yed as a God for like a few days before inevitably dying. I still don''t know why that lightning bolt killed me though."

    After dying, all he felt was disappointment that he was not going to be able to y as a God-tier existence in ISE anymore. Now that he had the system, even though it would take him a long while, he could reach the same height where he once was and even go further beyond.

    As he was going to check his current situation, a voice that was familiar to him started to speak in his head.

    "Hello there Aurus. It''s me Kurohana. Although I kinda forced you to be reborn as a stick, I gave you two bonuses so you can say that everything is even. The first one is the Existence Evolution System you''re using. Pretty familiar, right? I somewhat copied the system from the game you yed and tweaked it a little bit so you can have more fun with the possibilities!"

    Hearing that the first bonus was the system, Aurus couldn''t help but feel proud that his guess was right. But wait...second bonus?

    "As for the second bonus, it is a special skill that would definitely help you out. If you knew what it was, you''d definitely bow down in front of me and worship me hahaha! Anyways, I''ll let you find that out for yourself and also, good luck!"

    Since the second bonus was a skill, Aurus decided to leave it for now. At the moment, what he wanted to know the most were his stats!

    "Open the status screen!" Aurus shouted.

    Ding!

    As if he was ying the game, a small semitransparent screen appeared in front of his field of vision.

    ________

    [Aurus] (Level 1/3)

    Experience: 0/3

    Existence Level: Inanimate

    Grade: C

    Stats:

    Toughness: 1

    Thickness: 1

    Density: 1

    Unused Experience Points: 0

    Unused Genesis Points: 0

    ________

    Checking that everything on the screen was the same as starting out in the game, Aurus couldn''t help but breathe a sigh of relief.

    As for the stats and the other stuff, this heavenly body will exin it to you at another time.

    "Open the skill screen!" Aurus shouted. Excitement was evident in his nonexistent eyes as he was extremely curious as to what skill Kurohana gave him.

    Ding!

    ________

    Active Skills:

    [Roll]

    Passive Skills:

    [Soul Perception I], [Blessing of the Reincarnation Goddess]

    ________

    "Oh, [Roll] is still here. That''s nice. But what about [Soul Perception I] and that other skill with the long name?" Aurus couldn''t help but think hard as to what the two skills did.

    "Identify [Soul Perception I]."

    Ding!

    ________

    [Soul Perception I] (Level 1/5)

    Experience: 0/10

    A skill obtained by those who are gifted in the soul, this skill allows the user to sense everything in their surroundings within a set radius.

    Current radius: 5 meters

    ________

    "Ah! So that''s why I can see now! It''s all thanks to this." Aurus checked that the current radius of this skill was at 5 meters and examined if it was true. After a few minutes of testing, he found out that everything within a 5 meter radius was vivid and extremely detailed. As for everything beyond that, only blurry images could be seen.

    "And now...this...long skill."

    "Identify uh...[Blessing of the Reincarnation Goddess]."

    Ding!

    As Aurus started to read the skill details, he couldn''t help but have the urge to hug Kurohana at this instant. Why? It''s because of this.

    ________

    [Blessing of the Reincarnation Goddess] (Level MAX)

    Experience: MAX

    With the goddess of reincarnation as your guide, your memories in your past life have not been tampered by the goddess but instead reinforced, allowing you to recall every single memory from that life. It also allows you to gain 50% more experience from everything you do thanks to your memories.

    ________

 Chapter 3 - Rolling

    "Oh...my god. This passive skill is definitely fitting of the name." Aurus couldn''t help but feel exhrated whenever he sees the effects the passive skill gives him.

    "A 50% boost to experience, not to mention every type of experience from levels to skills! And also to think that my memories weren''t wiped because of this skill, I really can''t help but thank her a lot!"

    Being surprised by the effects of the two passive skills, Aurus had the idea of checking the only active skill he had, which was [Roll].

    "Since the two passive skills have such godly effects, then wouldn''t Kurohana change the [Roll] skill as well? Let''s see if that''s the case."

    "Identify [Roll]."

    Ding!

    ________

    [Roll] (Level 1/3)

    Experience: 0/3

    The basic movement for twigs and sticks of all sizes and shapes. An intangible energy exists everywhere, moremonly known as wind. Harnessing the energy from the wind, the stick can move forward at a constant rate.

    Rate of movement: 1 meter per hour

    ________

    Aurus couldn''t help butugh bitterly. It seemed that he got his hopes up for no reason.

    "Well it does make sense though...why would she tamper with the [Roll] skill if I already have two skills that would probably make a lot of yers hate me if it was in-game?"

    After calming himself down, he then wondered how much HP he currently had. When he looked at his status screen a while ago, he couldn''t see his current HP amount.

    "Show my HP bar," Aurusmanded.

    Ding!

    ''The option has been enabled.''

    After the voice that came from the system finished speaking, two numbers could be seen floating above Aurus'' body, separated by a line.

    "1/1 huh," Aurus felt that this amount of HP was normal for someone at his current level.

    "Anyways, once I level up, I''ll gain more HP anyway so why bother thinking how much HP I currently have?"

    Aurus'' eyes gleamed as he could still vividly remember the godly passive skill.

    "Anyways, let''s not make the skill a waste and use it properly!"

    "Open up the map."

    Ding!

    A map of considerable size appeared in front of Aurus'' field of vision, allowing Aurus to look at everything that surrounded within a one kilometer radius.

    Although he already figured out that he was reborn in the world of Erudinia and knew every ce like the back of his hand, he still wanted to make sure just in case this current world was different from the game.

    And for some reason, there was only a deviation in terms of distance. Aurus had his eyes on a special ce he went to at the start of the game back then and there was a distance of 500 meters between them back then. But now, that distance has been increased to 750 meters.

    "Set a marker towards the ce," Aurusmanded.

    Ding!

    ''Marker has been ced. Forming path.''

    After a while, arge blue triangle could be seen hovering above Aurus'' body. Aurus could also sense a blue path that led to the ce that he wanted to go to, it was an incredibly surreal experience for him.

    "Let''s not waste any more time. Wait..."

    "What time is it?" Aurus asked.

    Ding!

    ''Current time: Day 1, 8:12:32 a.m.''

    "Hm... I''ve only wasted a few minutes on checking my current abilities. Anyways, [Roll].''

    After muttering the skill name, a faint green energy started to envelop Aurus'' body in a way that propelled him forward. He could feel that he could change the direction of his movement, but with the blue path in front of him leading the way, he saw that there was no need to change it.

    "If I factor in everything that will happen to me along the way, it would take me around a day or two to reach that ce."

    At this moment, Aurus'' eyes gleamed. "But I have that skill so it''ll only take me a day at most!"

    "Onward to that ce that I can''t say because I feel like someone will exin itter on!"

    Whoosh!

    Although a whoosh sound could be heard, Aurus was moving at a pace that could bepared to the speed of a snail''s movement, but he endured it since he would speed up soon enough.

    "Hehe. This is gonna take a while," Aurus couldn''t help but say.

    As Aurus was moving towards the ce at an excruciatingly slow pace...

    *Vsauce music ys"

    Hey, Heavenly Body here. What...are stats?

    Hehe, I told you that I''d be exining stats and the other things sooner orter so here I am.

    Anyways, there are three stats to take note of: Toughness, Thickness, and Density.

    Toughness is equivalent to the Defense stat in MMORPGs, Thickness is equivalent to the Vitality stat in MMORPGs, and Density is equivalent to the Attack stat in MMORPGs.

    And that''s all pretty much. No wait, there''s something else. Although these three stats fulfill their roles, they still have hidden connections with one another. I don''t know how they''re connected but it exists.

    Also, the stats that our Aurus has are only the three basic stats that every yer has in ISE. Once he evolves to a certain point and reaches a certain existence level, he could obtain more stats like Intelligence, Spirit, Element Affinity and so on.

    Now let''s move on to the other stuff, specifically existence level and grades.

    At this point in time, you might be bored already after reading this heavenly body''s long exnation but...

    Bear with me a little bit more.

    Existence levels are basically a measurement on the sentience and power of a certain species. So far, you only need to know of two existence levels: Inanimate which is Aurus'' current existence level, and Animate, the existence level after Inanimate.

    They''re self-exnatory so I won''t exin any further. As for grades...

    You know how some species are stronger than other species? That''s because of grades. Although a lot of species are at the same existence level, when their grades are taken into consideration, some can do more than others.

    Anyways, there are only five grades to take note of: C, B, A, S and X from lowest to highest respectively.

    These grades affect not only existence levels but also skills as well...although I''ll delve deeper into that partter on.

    Anyways, I have to get going now. Something special is going to happen to Aurus soon.

    *swoop*

    Two hours have passed since Aurus enabled the [Roll] skill.

    Aurus looked at the triangle on top of his stick body and looked at the number above it.

    748.

    "It has already been two hours and I''ve only moved 2 meters. This is definitely going to take a while."

    Ding!

    At this moment, Aurus was surprised. Shouldn''t that notification sounde up one hourter, he thought. But then he remembered that specific skill and then smiled.

    ''[Roll] has leveled up.''

 Chapter 4 - Rolling Faster

    ''[Roll] has leveled up.''

    Hearing that announcement made Aurus'' mouth curve from both ends. Although it was just an increase of 2 meters per hour per level up, to Aurus, it was progress.

    Nheless, he was already getting sick of the sight, but since he had to continue moving forward, he just dozed off as he constantly rolled towards the ce he set a marker on.

    Now, let me ask you this question? What ce did Aurus put a marker on wherein he still has 748 meters left to trek and is one of Aurus'' main objectives in order to be fast?

    Well of course, this Heavenly Body here shall answer that question while answering another question. Thetter question shall be saved forter.

    Anyways, Aurus is heading to a ce that every yer in ISE always heads to first.

    If you''re not a gamer, you wouldn''t guess this but, it''s a grinding spot! A grinding spot allows yers to do speed leveling in order for them to evolve to higher grades and existence levels.

    No wait. I''m sure you''ve probably guessed it''s a grinding spot since almost every person that stumbled upon this novel is for sure a gamer.

    Anyways, for the gamers, you can skip to uh...nowhere. For the people who don''t y MMORPGs, I exined grinding spots. Anyways, normally, grinding levels up at a certain spot early-game is a big no-no since you wouldn''t get used to your newfound strength.

    But in ISE, speed leveling is basically the way to progress. Although ying as a stick is interesting, yers evolve into higher grades so they be less and less stick while obtaining more skills. Do you understand?

    Now Aurus here is heading towards the closest grinding spot that could be traversed from the Forest of Beginnings.

    What is its name? The Lesser Experience Haven.

    Although it''s self-exnatory, for those who are new to the game, and of course this novel as well, this ce is filled with enemies, specifically twigs and sticks.

    That''s all for the ce Aurus is heading towards. Now this Heavenly Body shall now answer the other question. What am I? Specifically, what are Heavenly Bodies?

    Oh wait, I forgot to y the special music. Let me try that again.

    *Vsauce music ys*

    What are...Heavenly Bodies?

    Although there is no concrete evidence on scientific basis that Heavenly Bodies exist, we Heavenly Bodies are a manifestation of the Creator''s imagination in order to act as an overseer for an entity. Although I''m not given a name by the Creator, I usually call myself Hebo.

    Also, even though Heavenly Bodies are made by the Creator to act as overseers, Heavenly Bodies are made to fulfill different purposes. Defense, offense, support, reconnaissance, pleasure, everything could be done by Heavenly Bodies.

    Now, there is also another type of Heavenly Bodies that aren''t made by the Creator himself, these are called Artifixes, Artifux when it''s just a single one.

    These Artifixes are made by the Gods the Creator made to rule over the Eternal ne, Eternal ne being the universe.

    Well, now that I think about it, isn''t it weird that Kurohana didn''t make an Artifux for Aurus? And for some reason, I became the overseer for Aurus?

    The Creator is definitely weird, but he has his reasons.

    What to do...what to do...how can I stall time while Aurus is still rolling?

    Ding!

    Eh?

    I received a message from the Creator himself. Let me read it out for you.

    ''For those that are reading this novel, hello. I am the Creator. This novel is actually some sort of a mirror of the Eternal ne I created and I''m quite bored so I''m currently writing this. As for spoilers, do you want some? Nah. I guess you won''t need it.''

    And that''s al¡ªwait, there''s more.

    ''Anyways, I wanted to pull an April Fools joke on everyone that''s reading this by turning All Star into binary, but then I thought... I''m toozy to do that. So here I am, writing this letter to give to Hebo while you guys are waiting for something interesting to happen. Anyways, that''s all from me. You might hear from me sooner orter, but it''ll mostly beter than sooner.''

    *Poof!* And just like that, the Creator''s letter disappeared.

    Ding!

    Ah, finally. Aurus made a bit more progress after I rambled for a while.

    ...

    4 hours have passed since [Roll] has leveled up.

    The ce Aurus wanted to go to is still far from his reach, with 736 meters left between them. Even so, there was a bit of change in Aurus'' surroundings although he didn''t notice that.

    The thing he did notice was...

    Ding!

    ''[Roll] has leveled up!''

    ''[Roll] has reached the MAX level!''

    ''[Roll] has met the requirements and is now ready to evolve.''

    "Ah." Aurus heard the notification sound and made a short gasp of surprise before going back to normal. Since his [Roll] skill was now at MAX level, it was quite obvious that Aurus would evolve it. But before he did so...

    "If I remember correctly, the [Roll] skill was a C-grade Skill right?" Aurus tried to recall the thoughts of every single skill he had encountered before confirming that that was the case.

    Since [Roll] was the most basic skill a yer could have, that meant that it would start off as a C-grade Skill, the lowest grade for a skill possible. But once one were to max it our and evolve it, it could allow the yer to move exponentially faster than before and even allow the yer to do amazing things like teleport or fly!

    But he was still far off from evolving [Roll] into that sort of skill so hemanded, "Evolve [Roll]."

    Although [Roll] would only be faster and not allow his body to fly, it was better than nothing.

    Ding!

    ________

    Please choose the skill that [Roll] would evolve into:

    [sh]

    [Roll+]

    ________

    From the two options given to Aurus, he was sure that he was going to pick [Roll+] since it would eventually turn into the great [Hover] skill. But for some reason, he felt an urge to check the skills one by one to see if Kurohana tampered it.

    "Identify [sh]."

    Ding!

    ________

    [sh] (Level 1/5)

    Experience: 0/5

    An upgraded version of [Roll] focused on traversing short distances at short times. Instead of allowing the wind to propel the stick forward, the stick instead stores the wind within it and explodes it into one go, propel the stick at a speed iparable to before.

    Distance traversed: 20 meters

    Cooldown: 2 hours

    ________

    "Hm. No difference at all," Aurus said. He then checked the [Roll+] skill.

    Ding!

    ________

    [Roll+] (Level 1/5)

    Experience: 0/5

    An upgraded version of the [Roll+] skill focused on staying true to the original. With the stick''s mastery, the stick can harness more of the wind to propel it faster.

    Rate of movement: 10 meters per hour

    ________

    "Although the distance traversed by both skills are the same in the same timeframe, I''d really pick [Roll+] instead of [sh] since I hate staying in one ce for a long time." Making his mind up, Aurus confirmed his choice of evolving [Roll] into [Roll+] and waited for the notification sound.

    Ding!

    ''[Roll] has been evolved to [Roll+]!''

    "Well, that''s one step further in the journey to bing God-tier again," Aurus sighed.

    Afterwards, he activated the [Roll+] skill, continuing to head towards the Lesser Experience Haven.

 Chapter 5 - Rolling Even Faster

    Although the Lesser Experience Haven was still far away from Aurus, he would usually this time where he was rolling towards a ce to think about possible ns in the future or possible evolutions he could obtain. Since he had a lot of time on his hands now that he was reincarnated as a stick and had to work from the ground up, why not use it for some time to imagine?

    "At the current rate I''m moving, it would take 4 hours for [Roll+] to level up, then 7 hours, then 10 hours, then 14 hours," Aurus started to calcte the amount of time it would take for him to reach the maximum level of [Roll+] and it definitely broke his belief that he would be able to reach the Lesser Experience Haven within a day. "It seems I''ve overestimated the passive skill."

    [Blessing of the Reincarnation Goddess]. It was truly a passive skill fitting of the name. It allowed to recall all of his memories from his previous life and apply them in his current life. Not only that, but it also increased Aurus'' experience gain in everything by 50%. How could he not overestimate it?

    Anyways, he didn''t think too much further and spent his time looking around his surroundings since at his current speed, it would now constantly change unlike before the skill evolution.

    ...

    Hello there, Heavenly Body Hebo here. It seems that the Creator wants me to go back to his dimension and leave Aurus be. I don''t know why he wants to do this but I saw a glimpse of another body beside him that looked exactly like me?

    I-Is the Creator possibly thinking of recing me Hebo with another Heavenly Body? Man, this is definitely unexpected. I want to witness Aurus'' growth to bing a¡ªit seems I''ve spoken too much.

    Eh? Wait...the Heavenly Body is moving somewhere else? The Creator didn''t assign him to Aurus? Phew, that''s a relief.

    But seriously though, why did he recall me?

    "Ah, Hebo. You''re back," the Creator looked me and gave a warm smile.

    It feels like bliss whenever I look at the Creator''s face. But I still want to know why he wanted me to go back?

    "Why did you call me back Creator? Didn''t you tell me to look over Aurus?" I asked.

    The Creator looked at me for a bit before writing a few words on the thick book he was holding.

    "I assign someone else with more power to look over Aurus. And I chose an ironic person to do that," the Creator smiled as heughed in a wicked manner. Now this...I feel like something wrong is gonna happen.

    ...

    Whoosh!

    All of a sudden, a chilly breeze blew through Kurohana''s space. It was weird though since the space was fully sealed, not letting any wind pass through.

    Kurohana couldn''t help but shiver as a thought suddenly shed in her mind. She formed a chair out of the white material that made the walls of her space and sat on it as a crystal orb appeared in front of her.

    She then channeled her deity energy into the orb as a live image formed within her orb. The image formed was of a stick that was moving as if it was one with the wind. Indeed, Kurohana was looking at Aurus.

    "Oh? He has evolved the [Roll+] skill already? Well that''s to be expected," Kurohana gave a light smile. "With the blessing I gave to him, he would progress faster and faster."

    At this point in time, Kurohana couldn''t help but give an evilugh. "Once he matures to a certain point, hehehehe."

    "He shall be the catalyst for my Transcendent Deity Weapon. The Archaic Soul Wood. He shall be that wood."

    ...

    4 hours have passed since Aurus evolved [Roll] into [Roll+].

    Ding!

    ''[Roll+] has leveled up.''

    At this point in time, Aurus'' rate of movement has been increased by 5 meters per hour, thus bringing the total to 15 meters per hour. If one could notice, evolving skills would also lead to greater increases between levels. Just like how [Roll] gave an increase of 2 meters per hour per level while [Roll+] gave an increase of 5 meters per hour per level.

    Aurus look at the triangle at the top of his body and saw that there was a definite change now. There was only 696 meters left between him and the Lesser Experience Haven.

    Using math, he deduced that the distance between him and the Lesser Experience Haven would be reduced by 100 or so meters once the skill leveled up again.

    "Move onward! Towards the Lesser Experience Haven!" Auris tried to motivate himself, only to fail in the process.

    ...

    7 hours have passed. In total, it has already been 15 hours ever since Aurus was reborn as a stick.

    Ding!

    ''[Roll+] has leveled up.''

    Now, Aurus was halfway from maxing the [Roll+] skill and evolving it into a higher grade of skill. He then checked the triangle on top of his body and was surprised that his deduction was correct. There was only a distance of 591 meters between him and the Lesser Experience Haven left.

    For some reason, Aurus couldn''t help but sigh. "Although I''ve gotten used to waiting long times between level ups at the game, I just can''t help but want my Transcendent skills back."

    As he pondered for a bit, Aurus shook his nonexistent head. "Wait. Why limit myself to Transcendent skills if I can achieve Divine skills in the future?"

    With this, Aurus gained a bit of motivation as he continued to roll towards the designated ce.

    ...

    Mortal, Transcendent, Divine. These three tiers are always visible in everything. For skills, they have a lot of differences.

    Mortal skills are skills that almost every species can obtain. They range from a grade of C to X, same with the Transcendent and Divine skills. [Roll] is a good example of a Mortal skill. These skills act as a foundation for the next tier of skills that are also known as Transcendent skills.

    Transcendent skills, from the word itself, it transcends mortal limits, allowing mortals to do the impossible. The skill that Aurus wants so much, [Hover], is actually a Transcendent skill. Sometimes Transcendent skills can go beyond their limits and exert a force that is said to be only doable by deities. These skills are Divine skills.

    Although Divine skills are extremely strong, a lot of the strong people in Erudinia have at least one of those skills, saved as a trump card.

    ...

    10 hours have passed.

    Ding!

    ''[Roll+] has leveled up.''

    At this exact moment, Aurus noticed that he has already been reborn for a day already. Although he only rolled for most of this time, he couldn''t deny that he has already existed for a day.

    Looking at the triangle, he was surprised to see that the distance between him and the ce was only 395 meters. Not wasting time, he continued to roll.

    ...

    13 hours have passed.

    It was currently night time in the world of Erudinia. But for Aurus who had [Soul Perception I], he didn''t care if it was night or day since he could still see clearly.

    At this moment though, Aurus could see that the shadows of the ce he wanted to go could now be seen. As he looked at the triangle on top of his body, only 70 meters remained between him and the ce.

    He would usually use this chance to continue rolling, but he couldn''t really do that at the moment.

    Why?

    Ding!

    ''[Roll+] has leveled up.''

    ''[Roll+] has reached the MAX level.''

    ''[Roll+] has met the requirements and is now ready to evolve.''

 Chapter 6 - Rolling Over Sticks

    ''[Roll+] has leveled up.''

    ''[Roll+] has reached the MAX level.''

    ''[Roll+] has met the requirements and is now ready to evolve.''

    "Now this...this I didn''t expect," Aurus said out of shock as he didn''t deduce far enough to foresee this situation. In most cases, yers would ignore this for now and head towards the grinding spot before evolving.

    But who was Aurus? He was the great owner of the godly passive skill, [Blessing of the Reincarnation Goddess]!

    Every meter he passes would always lead to him gaining experience! Why would he just head straight towards the grinding spot? That would be a waste of his skill.

    "Hmm...if I remember correctly, this is the time where there''s an even bigger jump in the effects of skills," Aurus said. Although it goes without a saying, this next evolution is basically putting the skill at a level where there is only two grades left before it evolves into a true Transcendent skill.

    "Evolve [Roll+]," Aurus didn''t dare to dy it any further andmanded the Existence Evolution System.

    Ding!

    ________

    Please choose the skill that [Roll+] would evolve into:

    [Roll++]

    [Breeze Burst]

    ________

    "Hmm...what should I choose?" If it was the usual Aurus, he would pick [Roll++] since it would eventually lead him to being able to fly using the [Hover] skill. But after looking at the second skill, he hesitated.

    "Man...this skill sounds so cool..." Indeed. Aurus hesitated just because thetter sounded cooler than the former. "I should think it from a logical perspective though. What would give me bigger benefits?"

    "Identify [Breeze Burst]."

    Ding!

    ________

    [Breeze Burst] (Level 1/10)

    Experience: 0/10

    An upgraded version of the [Roll+] skill. With the stick''s massively increased affinity and control with the wind, the stick can store wind energy within its body while constantly moving, allowing for a backup n when cornered.

    Rate of movement: 30 meters per hour

    Burst distance: 30 meters

    Burst cooldown: 2 hours

    ________

    Seeing the rate of movement on the [Breeze Burst] skill somewhat disappointed him, but seeing that he can move a considerable distance in a short amount of time, that''s when he truly hesitated.

    "If I pick this skill, that would basically mean that I would have ast resort skill when I''m cornered," Aurus thought of it from a beneficial perspective. But all of a sudden, a pessimistic idea entered his mind. "What I activate the skill, only for me to burst a certain distance and move constantly afterwards, not allowing me to save the burst for dangerous situations?"

    At this moment, Aurus shuddered at the thought. He then looked at the skill he chose back then and the skill he was most familiar with, [Roll++].

    Ding!

    ________

    [Roll++] (Level 1/10)

    Experience: 0/10

    An upgraded version of the [Roll+] skill. It''s obvious that the speed of movement is higherpared to the previous version thanks to an additional plus sign on the end. With the stick''s massively increased affinity with the wind, the stick can propel itself at high speed, although there would be a limit thanks to the air resistance it receives. Who knows? Once it evolves, maybe it gains a new supporting skill.

    Rate of movement: 50 meters per hour

    ________

    "This..." Aurus'' eyes widened. Although he knew the capabilities of the [Roll++] skill all too well, there was something that caught his eye. There were a few sentences that said something about the [Roll++] skill possibly gaining a new supporting skill once it evolves, and of course Aurus knew what he had to do.

    "I choose [Roll++]," Aurus said.

    In the game, [Roll++] was a skill that was rarely chosen by people since it only offered one mode of movement, which is rolling. Unlike [Breeze Burst] which offered two modes of movement, [Roll++] paled inparison.

    But ever since he was reborn, this was the first time he found a change in the skill, even if it was just vor text. He had no choice but to pick it to be honest.

    After confirming his choice once more, Aurus then heard a notification sound.

    Ding!

    ''[Roll+] has been evolved to [Roll++]!''

    After making sure that the [Roll++] skill was there, he continued to roll, shortening the 70 meter gap to zero after a few hours.

    ...

    The Lesser Experience Haven. A grinding spot made for those in the C-grade and B-grade Inanimate level. Back then, it was a battlefield of who could hunt which enemy first as everyone wanted to grow faster than others. But for Aurus who was reborn into the same world without any other yers, it was truly befitting of the word haven.

    The Lesser Experience Haven spanned over 5 kilometers in radius, being split into two areas meant for the two grades. The outer area, which isprised of the outer 3 kilometers, is meant for those at the C-grade Inanimate level. The inner area,prised of the remaining 2 kilometers, is meant for those at the B-grade Inanimate level. Although there are times that C-grade Inanimates challenge the inner area, most of the time it would end up in defeat and they would remove the thought of going back there before they evolve.

    Aurus only headed a few hundred meters in because that was enough for his current level. The inner portion of the outer area sometimes had scary enemies that boasted high attack or high HP, and he didn''t want to face them at his current pitiful state.

    "Hmhmhm...where is my experience?" Aurus hummed as he continued to roll, searching for the best enemy to kill.

    Within the outer portion of the outer area, there exists two types of enemies: twigs and sticks. Sticks boasted HP that was as high as a level 1 C-grade while twigs had HP that was only a fifth of a level 1 C-grade. Even though that was the case, twigs boasted an attack power that was higherpared to a level 1 C-grade while sticks boasted an attack power around half of a level 1 C-grade.

    Now the question is, what enemy is Aurus searching for? That''s right, a twig.

    Although twigs boasted higher attack power, level 1 C-grades can still withstand a few of the twig''s attack before dying, perhaps even leveling up before dying.

    After a few more hours of searching, he found what he was looking for.

    "Identify."

    Ding!

    ________

    [Twig] (Level 1)

    HP: 0.2/0.2

    ________

    Aurus looked at his HP bar that was higher than the twig and rolled towards the twig. After a few minutes of rolling, Aurus positioned himself perpendicr to the twig as this would allow him to utilize most of his density in one go, increasing his chances of doing a critical hit. This was experience he built up in his previous life, and he was now going to use it.

    "[Roll++]!"

    Whoosh!

    Wait...whoosh?

    The speed at which Aurus rolled over twig was slow. Although it was multiple times faster than a snail, it wascking whenpared to a human that could move around 5 meters in a second. To be honest, he could only move at a speed close to 1 meter a minute as of now, but that would change soon enough.

    After rolling over the short body of the twig, a notification sound popped up which shocked him.

    Ding!

    ''Critical hit! Aurus has dealt 0.2 HP damage to [Twig].''

    ''Experience +3''

    ''Congrattions! Aurus has leveled up.''

 Chapter 7 - Rolling To Evolve

    "Eh?" Aurus definitely didn''t expect his first attack to be a critical hit. In his previous life, he considered himself as a person with extremely bad luck. But for some reason, when he was reborn as a stick, the first attack he dealt was actually a critical? Have the gods finally taken pity on him?

    It''s quite an overstatement to say that the gods have finally pitied Aurus and given him good luck since he would eventually encounter situations that don''t favor him, but it does seem that his luck is turning for the better.

    "Well...now that I''m level 2 and I''m nearing the max level for this grade, I should head forward and enter the inner portion of the outer area," Aurus decided since he would evolve soon enough once he kills enough twigs.

    "But before that...open the status screen."

    Ding!

    ________

    [Aurus] (Level 2/3)

    Experience: 0/5

    Existence Level: Inanimate

    Grade: C

    [HP]: 2/2

    Stats:

    [Toughness]: 2

    [Thickness]: 2

    [Density]: 2

    Unused Experience Points: 0

    Unused Genesis Points: 0

    ________

    Ever since he enabled the option of seeing his HP bar that would usually hover over his body, the option of being able to see his HP bar from his status screen was enabled as well.

    "Hm. From leveling up, I can say that my abilities have doubled," Aurus said to himself. It was quite true though since his stats were only at 1 at Level 1. He then checked the amount of experience he needed as he said, "I need 5 experience points before I max it out."

    As he said this, he noticed something missing below the experience bar. "Why can''t I see my species?"

    Of course if dogs and cats have their breeds, sticks would also have their own distinct characteristics as well. Knowing the enemy''s species would allow you to attack more efficiently and knowing your own species would allow you to improve in a way that benefits your own species.

    Aurus thenmanded, "Enable the option of seeing my species."

    Ding!

    ''The option has been enabled.''

    ''Aurus'' current species is [Stick].''

    Hearing the voice that came from the system, he couldn''t help but chuckle. "As expected, my starting species is the same as starting out in ISE. A stick."

    "Well let''s not waste any more time," Aurus ced the thought at the back of his head and activate the [Roll++] skill, heading towards the inner portion of the outer area.

    ...

    Within the dimension Kurohana resided, one could see that Kurohana was eagerly watching a stick roll through a crystal orb. Although this would normally bore people, for Kurohana who had a near infinite lifespan, it was better than doing nothing. If you think about it though, who wouldn''t want to see their catalyst be stronger so it can create a better weapon?

    "In just two days, you''re already close to evolving? This is definitely great." Kurohana let out augh that was unbefitting of her appearance. At first nce, everyone would think of her as a pure and innocent girl, but sadly she had a bipr personality that would even merge together at times.

    Ring...

    All of a sudden, a ringing sound could be hearding from the orb. Kurohana, who was watching Aurus, frowned as she looked at the person who called her.

    Yes, the reason for the ringing sound was that she received a call.

    She changed the image on the orb from Aurus into another person Kurohana knew. This person was a God just like her but he governed another part of the universe, specifically the underworld.

    Although this person was ruler of the underworld, he was devilishly handsome to the point that many goddesses would confess to him, only to be rejected by the cold aura he emitted.

    This god was none other than the God of the Underworld, Hadouken.

    Kurohana looked at Hadouken with a smiling face as she was used to looking at handsome people. "How are you, Hadouken?"

    Hadouken opened his mouth as a cold yet calm voice sounded out. "I''m fine, thank you. The Underworld is currently stable at the moment and I''m nning to improve its power soon enough. How about you, Kurohana? Are the Six Paths having any issues?"

    Kurohana shook her head as she maintained her smile. "Not at all. In fact, it''s bing better since I''ve assigned personnel for each path. Anyways, if you strengthen the Underworld, my Six Paths would also benefit from it, you know?"

    Even though they were gods who tend to stay out of the mortals'' issues, they still wanted to grow stronger and possibly reach the level of strength that the Creator, the God of Everything, wielded. Since that was the case, they would strengthen the things they governed and limit the ess of the mortals from the divine portions of the things they governed.

    At this moment, Kurohana let out a small snigger as she said, "You do know you didn''te here for that, right?"

    Hadouken looked at her and couldn''t help but let out a rare smile. "You''re right. Let me get straight to the point."

    "Teach me how to craft a Primordial Weapon."

    ...

    17 hours have passed since Aurus activated [Roll++].

    Ding!

    Ding!

    ''[Roll++] has leveled up.''

    ''[Roll++] has leveled up.''

    Indeed. Through these past 17 hours, Aurus traversed a distance that allowed him to level up [Roll++] twice. And considering the fact that each level up increased the rate of movement of [Roll++] by 10 meters per hour, Aurus is now moving at a speed that slightly exceeded the rate of 1 meter per minute!

    After a while, Aurus stopped in his tracks and saw two twigs that were coincidentally beside each other, making him smile.

    "They shall be my targets then," Aurus then rolled towards the two twigs and positioned himself perpendicr to the twigs just like before. He was taking his chances on whether he could achieve a critical hit again.

    "Attack!" Aurus shouted inwardly as he rolled over the two twigs. Although the situation he imagined looked great in his mind, in actuality, it was slow as usual. Well it was faster than before, but still slow.

    Ding!

    ''Aurus has dealt 0.2 HP to [Twig (1)].''

    ''Aurus has dealt 0.2 HP to [Twig (2)].''

    ''[Twig (1)] and [Twig (2)] have been killed.''

    ''Experience +6.''

    "..." Aurus had a solemn expression once he saw this. It turns out that he didn''t need to do a critical hit anymore since his attack stat could now one shot the twigs to death.

    As he continued to read through the notifications, he knew his time has finallye!

    ''Congrattions! Aurus has leveled up.''

    ''Aurus has reached the MAX level.''

    ''Aurus has met the needed requirements and is now ready to evolve.''

 Chapter 8 - Evolving

    Finally! Aurus has been rolling for around two days and killed three enemies just so he can finally start the true journey to bing a God-tier existence.

    Now, why does the true journey start at bing a B-grade Inanimate? These reason behind it is that it is the evolution that sets your ss. You could be a stick warrior, a stick ranger or a stick illusionist. Those are the three main paths you can choose and it just expands from there.

    Multiple yers have given up midway through their journey to bing a B-grade Inanimate because to them, it would just be a cycle of roll, kill, and repeat. But once they knew that the B-grade Inanimate species had more skills than C-grade Inanimates, they would have the urge toe back...but they wouldn''t have the chance to catch up anymore.

    Even though a grade seemed like a small difference to every other species, for sticks, it''s what truly sets them apart from other sticks. Plus the diversity doesn''t end there since they can evolve even further into other types.

    Aurus looked at his surroundings and checked if there were any enemies nearby. Seeing that there were a few twigs and sticks that could possibly roll and attack him, Aurus rolled back to the outer portion of the outer area at a speed iparable to before.

    It still took him 14 hours though.

    ...

    Ding!

    ''[Roll++] has leveled up.''

    Aurus ignored this notification and calmed himself down. Since this would be his first evolution, the choice he would make would affect him in the long run. He has to make it count.

    "Evolve," hemanded.

    Ding!

    ''Aurus has met all of the requirements needed to evolve.''

    Ding!

    ''Aurus has met special requirements needed to evolve into Special species.''

    Hearing the second statement, Aurus'' eyes widened. "Special species! I can''t believe I can evolve into a Special species right off the bat!"

    Special species. From the name alone, these species are extremely special obviously. Why? That''s because these species are just like normal species, but with more effects like more active skills or passive skills.

    If one were topare it to a normal MMORPG, it would be akin to a hidden ss. If the Warrior was a normal ss, then the Berserker and Guardian ss are hidden Warrior ss.

    The same thing applies for Special species.

    Ding!

    ________

    Please choose the species that Aurus will evolve into:

    [Mahogany Branch]

    [Sakura Branch]

    [Walnut Branch]

    [Wind Mahogany Branch (Special)]

    [Wind Sakura Branch (Special)]

    [Wind Walnut Branch (Special)]

    ________

    Seeing the amount of species Aurus could choose made him somewhat overwhelmed. But looking closely, it was pretty much the same choices for normal yers other than the Wind type species.

    Also, people might not usually notice this but, a Stick will now be called a Branch once it evolves since it grows in size once it evolves. What does a Branch evolve to afterwards? Possibly a Branch Formosus or a Sapling, but that''s in the future.

    "If I remember correctly, the Mahogany Branch is the Warrior ss, the Sakura Branch is the Illusionist ss, and the Walnut Branch is the Ranger ss," Aurus said as he opened the screen for the Mahogany Branch.

    "It''s been a while since I yed as a small branch so the memories are kinda hazy."

    Ding!

    ________

    [Mahogany Branch]

    Existence Level: Inanimate

    Grade: B

    The stick has decided to surpass its limits and be stronger, focusing on defense and close rangebat. The stick that evolves to this type of species are destined to be guardians or deadly close range attackers.

    The active skill [Charge] is obtained.

    The passive skill [Tenacity] is obtained.

    The passive skill [SP Storage] is obtained.

    ________

    "Ah. Forgot about the [SP Storage] skill," Aurus'' memories were revived after seeing the info regarding the Mahogany Branch. Every species of the B-grade Inanimate level gain a universal passive skill, which is [SP Storage]. This shall be exinedter.

    "[Charge] is a skill that is self-exnatory while [Tenacity] is a passive skill that increases defense and reduces damage once the HP reaches a certain point," Aurus said to himself as he was rummaging through his memories. He yed as a Mahogany Branch in his previous life and that''s why he can still remember it.

    "Identify [Sakura Branch]."

    Ding!

    ________

    [Sakura Branch]

    Existence Level: Inanimate

    Grade: B

    The stick has decided to surpass its limits and be stronger, focusing on illusions and deception. The stick that evolves to this type of species are destined to be masters of stealth, masters of illusions, or masters of buffs and curses.

    The active skill [Confusion Pollen] is obtained.

    The passive skill [Sakura Bloom] is obtained.

    The passive skill [SP Storage] is obtained.

    ________

    "ording to my memories, the [Confusion Pollen] skill confuses enemies and possibly makes them attack themselves. The [Sakura Bloom] skill is basically the main method on how yers can cast illusions. The more flowers on the branch, the more powerful the illusion is," Aurus muttered.

    "Anyways, a friend of mine yed this and became a God-tier assassin, but it''scking something," Aurus said to himself as he identified thest normal species in his choices, [Walnut Branch].

    Ding!

    ________

    [Walnut Branch]

    Existence Level: Inanimate

    Grade B:

    The stick has decided to surpass its limits and be stronger. The stick that evolves to this type of species is destined to be a ranger able to deal with multiple enemies or a sage that is able to conjure magic spells that could shake the earth and tear the heavens asunder.

    The active skill [Nut Shot] is obtained.

    The passive skill [Fruit Creation] is obtained.

    The passive skill [SP Storage] is obtained.

    ________

    Reading the vor text alone, Aurus'' interest was piqued. "Bing a ranger or a mage that can conjure spells?" At this point, his decision was set. He would be a [Walnut Branch].

    "Well... since I''ve decided my species, let''s see the Special variation of the species."

    "Identify [Wind Walnut Branch]."

    Ding!

    ________

    [Wind Walnut Branch] (Special)

    Existence Level: Inanimate

    Grade: B

    The stick has decided to surpass its limits and be stronger. Unknowingly, the stick has improved its movement skill so well that it has gained the recognition of the wind that surrounds it. The stick that evolves to this type of species is destined to be a ranger or a mage that would go down in legends but could possibly exceed that.

    The active skill [Nut Shot] is obtained.

    The passive skill [Fruit Creation] is obtained.

    The passive skill [SP Storage] is obtained.

    The special passive skill [Wind Affinity] is obtained.

    ________

    Although Aurus wanted to check each and every skills of the [Wind Walnut Branch] right now, he wanted to be a God-tier existence as fast as possible so he''ll just checkter.

    "I''ve chosen. Evolve to [Wind Walnut Branch]!"

    Afterwards, the system asked the same question as a confirmation, to which Aurus readily agreed.

    All of a sudden, Aurus felt like he wanted to go to sleep until...

    He actually did go to sleep.

    As to why this happened, it had something to do with the system. A few minutester, a notification sound could be heard although Aurus was unconscious.

    Ding!

    ''[Aurus¡ªStick] has evolved to [Aurus¡ªWind Walnut Branch].''

 Chapter 9 - Delving Within

    "Gasp!" Aurus woke up as he took in a deep breath. He didn''t expect that he would fall unconscious whenever he evolved. Fortunately, nothing happened to him while he was unconscious, but it still gave him a feeling that he was vulnerable.

    He then checked his surroundings and saw that it was already dark...not that it made a difference for him.

    "System, what time is it?" Aurus asked.

    Ding!

    ''Current time: Day 3, 09:15:32 p.m.''

    Calcting the time that passed while he was unconscious, it took 6 hours to evolve into his current form. He then started to examine his body, which at first nce was definitely bigger than before.

    The color of his bark was now a slight ash gray as some green shoots could be seen growing out of Aurus'' body.

    He didn''t panic at all after seeing it as he was sure that it had something to do with his skills. "Open the status screen," hemanded as he wanted to know what changes happened to his stats and stuff.

    Ding!

    ________

    [Aurus] (Level 1/5)

    Experience: 0/10

    Species: Wind Walnut Branch (Special)

    Existence Level: Inanimate

    Grade: B

    [HP]: 5/5

    Stats:

    [Toughness]: 5

    [Thickness]: 5

    [Shell Hardness]: 5

    Synchronization Rate: 20%

    Unused Experience Points: 1

    Unused Genesis Points: 0

    ________

    At first nce, Aurus noticed a lot of things. The first of which was his current Species that could be seen under the experience bar. Afterwards, he checked his HP that has basically doubledpared to his previous health. As he continued to look at his status screen, he then asked the system, "What''s [Shell Hardness]?"

    Ding!

    ''[Shell Hardness] is equivalent to the [Density] stat before evolution. It affects the attack power of the fruit created with the [Fruit Creation] skill.''

    "So it''s just my attack stat but transferred to another ce, huh," Aurus easily understood what the system meant. As for the [Fruit Creation] skill, he would check itter as another thing caught his eye.

    "Synchronization Rate? That hasn''t been there before," Aurus muttered. "What is it?"

    Ding!

    ''Synchronization Rate refers to the level of connection of the soul to the body. For other species, it is the level of intelligence a soul has. For a species at the Animate level, they would have a Synchronization Rate of 100%.''

    "Ah. So that''s what it does," Aurus nodded. He tried to move his body with the [Roll++] skill and saw that it responded faster whenpared to before.

    "Since this Synchronization Rate increases with every evolution I think, I might have the possibility of wielding a weapon, increasing my leveling speed." Aurus imagined himself rolling through a wave of enemies as a floating weapon hovered beside him as he killed each of them one by one, leveling up at a preposterous speed.

    He then closed his status screen as he said, "Time to check on my...wait."

    "System, enable the option of showing my SP bar," Aurusmanded.

    He almost forgot about the universal passive skill every stick would get once they reached the B-grade Inanimate level, [SP Storage].

    Now what is [SP Storage]? It''s the equivalent of MP inmon MMORPGs, but in this case, instead of the Intelligence and Wisdom stat affecting the amount of MP a yer can hold and the speed at which MP regenerates, for ISE, it was instead based on the skill [SP Storage].

    Without this skill, B-grade Inanimates would not be much different from their C-grade counterparts. It is the reason why B-grade Inanimates say that the true journey begins when you evolve to B-grade.

    Ding!

    ''Option has been enabled.''

    Not long after the voice finished speaking, two numbers separated by a line could be seen under the HP bar hovering over his body.

    "2/2 huh. Definitely how I expected it to be," Aurus nodded as he opened the skill screen.

    Ding!

    ________

    Active Skills:

    [Roll++], [Nut Shot]

    Passive Skills:

    [SP Storage], [Wind Affinity], [Fruit Creation], [Soul Perception I], [Blessing of the Reincarnation Goddess]

    ________

    "Hmm..." Aurus looked at his skill screen as he pondered. He felt like there was something in the screen...specifically numbers.

    "Ah," Aurus realized. "System, enable the option of allowing me to see the skill levels."

    Ding!

    ''Option has been enabled.''

    Now that he has enabled the option, his current skill screen now looked like this.

    ________

    Active Skills:

    [Roll++ Lv.5/10], [Nut Shot Lv.1/3]

    Passive Skills:

    [SP Storage Lv.1/3], [Wind Affinity Lv.1/3], [Fruit Creation Level 1/3], [Soul Perception I Lv.1/5], [Blessing of the Reincarnation Goddess Lv.MAX]

    ________

    Now contented with him seeing each skill have their levels beside it, he thenmanded, "Identify [Nut Shot], [SP Storage], [Fruit Creation], and [Wind Affinity]."

    Ding! Ding! Ding!

    Three screens appeared in front of Aurus'' field of vision as he looked at each screen one by one.

    ''Ah. I should enable the option of seeing the skill grades as well,'' Aurus remembered as he was looking at the screen. ''I''ll just do itter.''

    ________

    [Nut Shot] (Level 1/3)

    Experience: 0/3

    A Walnut Branch can utilize their fruit as projectile weapons that can deal damage to enemies. Once the fruit collides with the enemy, it shatters into pieces, dealing damage. The damage is reliant on the [Shell Hardness] stat of the stick.

    Cost: 1 SP

    Cooldown: 5 seconds

    ________

    ________

    [SP Storage] (Level 1/3)

    Experience: 0/3

    An omnipresent energy found in the world of Erudinia, it allows sticks to do things that are normally impossible for them. Commonly found in a gaseous form within a vessel formed in the stick, it holds infinite possibilities.

    Maximum SP capacity: 2 SP

    SP regeneration rate: 1 SP per minute

    ________

    ________

    [Wind Affinity] (Level 1/3)

    Experience: 0/3

    With enough experience, the stick can sense the wind in the surroundings, utilizing it in many ways possible. This skill boosts the damage and projectile speed of attacks by 1%.

    ________

    ________

    [Fruit Creation] (Level 1/3)

    Experience: 0/3

    An innate skill found on all sticks and branches rted to the Walnut race, this allows branches and sticks to form fruits that could either be used as storage for SP, or bullets for attacking.

    Maximum amount of fruit: 3

    Maximum SP capacity per walnut: 1 SP

    ________

    Aurus looked at this and couldn''t help but let out a smile at the skills he currently owned. It was nowhere nearpared to the skills of a Mahogany Branch that he yed in his previous life.

    Now that he was going to be a ranger or possibly a mage, the first he had to figure out was to be efficient with his SP.

    "Now then," Aurus asked himself, "What ratio should I use for the amount of SP storage to the amount of bullets?"

 Chapter 10 - Ideal Nut Shot

    "Since the [Fruit Creation] skill allows me to create 3 nuts, I should go with 2 on SP storage and 1 as a bullet for now." After pondering for a bit, Aurus finally settled on a ratio that seemed like it would help him.

    Activating the [Fruit Creation] skill, three small nuts suddenly sprouted from Aurus'' body. Two of these nuts were a pale green in color, while the other one was simr to the color of Aurus'' body, ash gray.

    "Hm. If I add in the two nuts I set for SP storage, that means I now have 4 SP to use," Aurus then started to think far ahead. "If the [Fruit Creation] skill or the [SP Storage] skill levels up, that would mean I would have more SP to use. If I have a lot of SP, I might unlock a new evolution!"

    Aurus couldn''t help but snigger at the thought. Just like how evolving [Roll] to [Roll++] allowed him to ess a Special evolution, he had a feeling that having a lot of SP would allow him to ess a more special evolutionpared to his current species. Perhaps a Rare evolution?

    While he was engrossed in his delusions, a notification sound popped up, bringing him back to reality.

    Ding!

    ''[Fruit Creation] has leveled up.''

    "Well that was fast," Aurus couldn''t help but say. He then opened the screen regarding the skill, checking the differences between the levels.

    Not long after, another nut sprouted from his body. This nut was also ash gray just like thest nut from before.

    "Okay. With 4 nuts, I think I''m set for now." Aurus then opened up the map and set a marker for the outer portion of the inner area, which was 4 kilometers away. He didn''t dare to enter the center of the Lesser Experience Haven, since a scary enemy lived there.

    With the blue path leading his way and the triangle hovering on top of his body telling how much distance he left being manifested, he then activated [Roll++] and started to...well roll.

    As he rolled, he noticed that his rolling wasn''t bumpy at all. He took a look at his body and saw that the nuts were inside his body, waiting to sprout once more when needed. Looking at this, Aurus couldn''t help but thank Kurohana for giving him the system.

    ...

    And with only an ellipsis separating two situations, 42 hours have unnoticeably passed. Along the journey, two notification sounds alerting Aurus of the [Roll++] skill leveling up ured.

    At the moment, Aurus stopped where he was and all of a sudden, the four nuts he prepared before sprouted out, giving Aurus a sense of security. He then looked around his surroundings and saw at first nce that the enemies he would face right now were not pushovers.

    A few meters away from him, a thick branch could be standing in ce as the cold breeze blew through its bark. The thick branch didn''t flinch at all from the cold...because it was a branch.

    "Identify," Aurusmanded.

    Ding!

    _________

    [Lesser Mahogany Branch] (Level 4)

    HP: 15/15

    _________

    "Gulp." Aurus swallowed his saliva even though he didn''t have any saliva to swallow. He looked at the HP of the branch in front of him and couldn''t help but scratch his head figuratively.

    "15 HP. That''s almost 8 times bigger whenpared to the sticks in the outer area," Aurus took a deep breath before realizing something.

    "Wait a minute. Ain''t I a Wind Walnut Branch? A species specialized in attacking from far away?" At this moment, Aurus sniggered as he got closer to the enemy he identified. After the gap between them was shortened to 2 meters, Aurus positioned his body perpendicr to the branch and then chanted a skill.

    "[Nut Shot]."

    Although it sounded wrong when heard for the first time, this skill was the first attack skill avable for those of the Walnut race. This skill is equivalent to the [Charge] of the Mahogany race and [Confusion Pollen] of the Sakura race.

    At the moment, Aurus thought that [Nut Shot] was an instantaneous attack skill like [Charge], but of course, with advantagese disadvantages.

    The 1 SP Aurus used to activate the [Nut Shot] skill circted in the ce where SP is stored and then went through the xylem and phloem of his body before reaching one of the ash gray nuts that were hanging from his body.

    Not long after, the ash gray nut started to glow green, a normal glow that woulde from using SP. It then started to hover as it broke off from the small branch ittched on and then shot itself towards the enemy Aurus targeted.

    Bang!

    In an instant the nut collided with the body of the enemy, the nut then exploded into multiple bit sized pieces and dealt damage to the enemy.

    Ding!

    Aurus then heard the notification sound and opened up the damage screen, only to be shocked by what he saw.

    ''Aurus has dealt 5 HP damage to [Lesser Mahogany Branch].''

    After being dealt damage, the Lesser Mahogany Branch then started to roll around as if it had a soul of its own and tried to search for the one who did it. After a while, it gave up since it didn''t find anything, going back to its original ce.

    Aurus couldn''t help but snigger at the thought. "Since those of the Mahogany race don''t have long-range attacks, they can''t hit me while I can hit them! Although it takes me a while to activate my attack skill, it does deal a lot of damage in exchange! I wonder how much damage it''ll deal once I evolve it."

    At this moment, Aurus felt something happening in his body so he checked it out. One of the nuts that were pale green in color had its SP sucked by the SP vessel in Aurus'' body, turning the nut into an ash gray color.

    It was at this moment that Aurus realized the ideal way to use his nuts.

    "Make everything SP storage while I leave one nut empty!" Aurus'' eyes gleamed at his fast thinking. Not long after, three nuts were now pale green in color while one of them was ash gray in color.

    "The cooldown has ended. Now! [Nut Shot]!"

    Bang!

    Once more, the sole ash gray nut flew towards the Lesser Mahogany Branch and exploded into bits, dealing 5 HP damage just like before.

    Not long after, one of the pale green nuts turned ash gray, giving Aurus another bullet to use. But at this moment, a notification sound popped up which somewhat confused him. He then heard the voice from the system and from there he understood.

    Ding!

    ''[Fruit Creation] has leveled up.''

    ''[Fruit Creation] has reached the MAX level.''

    ''[Fruit Creation] has met the necessary requirements and is now ready to evolve.''

 Chapter 11 - Better Nuts

    "Hm...well this is a surprise," Aurus muttered as he checked the remaining HP of the Lesser Mahogany Branch in front of him.

    After seeing that just one fight allowed him to already evolve one of his skills to a higher grade, he couldn''t help but admire the passive skill he gained from Kurohana.

    "Though it''s not like incredibly strong where it breaks the bnce of the world, it still lets me improve at a fast rate," Aurus said.

    "Well let''s finish this first before I evolve it! [Nut Shot]!"

    Bang!

    With one more ash gray nut, the Lesser Mahogany Branch that Aurus targeted finally broke apart into two and died.

    Ding!

    ''Aurus has dealt 5 HP damage to [Lesser Mahogany Branch].''

    ''Experience +15''

    ''Congrattions! Aurus has leveled up.''

    Aurus then closed his eyes and felt a weird sensation all over his body. All of the cells in his body started to condense towards the center as new cells were formed, making Aurus'' body denser than it was.

    He didn''t know why this happened but then realized something.

    "Leveling up means that my stats increase," Aurus deduced. "Now that I have a faint connection with my body, does that mean that I can now feel every improvement happening in my body?"

    Thinking about it, it sounded usible. Aurus ced it in the back of his head and decided to test his hypothesister.

    "But first..." Aurus was going tomand something to the system but a notification sound popped up.

    Ding!

    ''[SP Storage] has leveled up.''

    "Ooh. I''m surprised it leveled up this fast. I just need one more level before I can evolve it," Aurus chuckled as he said this to himself. Though it sounds weird that the ability of storing SP can be improved through skill leveling instead of stat improving, it''s quite logical from the perspective of a stick.

    A stick inherently doesn''t have any way of improvement other than the environment and skills it has. For [SP Storage], the repeated usage of SP allows it to gain experience and level up.

    Pushing the notification aside, Aurus then focused on the matter at hand andmanded, "Evolve [Fruit Creation]."

    Ding!

    ________

    Please select the skill that [Fruit Creation] would evolve into:

    [Condensed Fruit Creation]

    [Piercing Fruit Creation]

    [Regenerative Fruit Creation]

    ________

    "Ooh. Three choices," Aurus said to himself. "From the names alone, I feel like each and every one of them is a great upgradepared to the previous skill. I should check what each skill can do before I really choose."

    "Identify [Condensed Fruit Creation]."

    Ding!

    ________

    [Condensed Fruit Creation] (Level 1/5)

    Experience: 0/5

    An upgraded version of the [Fruit Creation] skill, focused on a bnce of SP storage and damage. Once evolved to this skill, the amount of fruit able to produced would be reduced by half, but in turn, it would allow the fruits to hold twice as much SP and allow the fruits to deal twice the amount of damage.

    Maximum amount of fruit: 3

    Maximum SP capacity per walnut: 4 SP

    ________

    "Holy... that''s a lot of SP per nut," Aurus couldn''t help but say. He checked the maximum amount of fruit he could produce and saw that it made sense since [Fruit Creation] at max level would allow him to make 5 fruits since each level increased the limit by one. But, 4 SP per walnut?

    He then checked the skill screen for [Fruit Creation] and saw that each fruit could now hold 2 SP since it was maxed in level. After checking it, everything now made sense to Aurus.

    "If I evolved to this skill, I would basically hold double the amount of SP I can currently hold with a maxed [Fruit Creation] skill and even deal twice the damage than I used to do." If Aurus said that he wasn''t interested in this skill, he''d be lying. He then moved on to the next skill.

    Ding!

    ________

    [Piercing Fruit Creation] (Level 1/5)

    Experience: 0/5

    An upgraded version of the [Fruit Creation] skill, focused on dealing extreme amounts of damage. Once evolved to this skill, every fruit formed will now deal twice the damage. In exchange for that, the amount of SP a fruit can hold has been halved. Nheless, the Walnut stick can now produce a nut that can deal twice the doubled damage, effectively dealing four times the damage.

    Maximum amount of fruit: 5

    Maximum SP capacity per walnut: 1 SP

    ________

    "Ohhh!" Aurus'' eyes gleamed. "Dealing four times the damage with the same skill? If I chose this, I would be able to one shot the Lesser Mahogany Branch I fought a while ago and possibly one shot stronger species as well!"

    But after he realized something, he thought that he shouldn''t pick this skill as an evolution. "If I choose this skill, it would be harder for me to be a stick mage. Although one shotting enemies is cool and stuff, nothing''s cooler than conjuring spells."

    Ever since Aurus evolved and knew that he had SP, he was aiming to get a lot of SP...although he didn''t know how much SP he wanted. 25? 50? 100?

    "Let''s move on. Identify [Regenerative Fruit Creation]."

    Ding!

    ________

    [Regenerative Fruit Creation] (Level 1/5)

    Experience: 0/5

    An upgraded version of the [Fruit Creation] skill, focused on everything rted to SP. Once evolved to this skill, the fruits produced would be able to hold twice the amount of SP while still dealing the same amount of damage. In exchange, the Walnut stick can produce a new type of fruit that could either regenerate HP or SP which has its own limit.

    Maximum amount of fruits: 5

    Maximum amount of regenerative fruits: 1

    Maximum SP capacity per walnut: 4 SP

    ________

    "This is..." Aurus was left speechless after seeing the upgrade the skill brought. Although the nuts wouldn''t deal as much damage whenpared to the Condensed or Piercing variant, he would be able to hold twice the amount of SP just like the Condensed variant. Not to mention, regenerative fruits that would allow him to regenerate HP or SP over time! With that, wouldn''t he be invincible or be some sort of gatling gun with the amount of SP he regenerates?

    "I''ve chosen!" Aurus nodded as he made his final choice.

    Ding!

    ''[Fruit Creation] has been evolved to [Regenerative Fruit Creation].''

    If Aurus was still human, his mouth would be curved at both ends, showing his happiness. But since he was a stick, he instead started to use the fruits he obtained.

    "First, create a regenerative fruit that regenerates SP!"

    Not long after saying that, a light blue nut sprouted out of Aurus'' body, radiating a soft blue light. Afterwards, 5 more nuts sprouted from his body, 4 of them being colored a slightly darker green than before and a single ash gray nut.

    Aurus then looked at two bars over his body and smiled.

    HP: 6/6

    SP: 19/19

    With that amount of SP, he wouldn''t have to worry about running out of SP while fighting. But at this moment, Aurus frowned. He was currently facing another problem.

    ''A Lesser Sakura Branch has targeted you!''

    ''You have been hit by the [Confusion Pollen] skill. You shall be confused for 10 seconds!''

    Right now, only one word came out of Aurus.

    "Shit."

 Chapter 12 - Nutting All Over

    After hearing the voice from the system telling him that he was hit by a skill, specifically a skilling from the Sakura race, he knew that he was in a predicament.

    "Man, I''ll never be this rxed ever again," Aurus sighed. Although he had a passive skill that would allow him to see everything within a 5 meter radius, most of the time he would be focused on one thing instead of everything around him.

    "First off, let''s wait until this Confusion debuff dissipates." Aurus took a calm breath and tried to sense his surroundings through the sounds as his sight was impaired.

    He could hear some rustling a few decimeters away from both sides of his body. From this, he guessed that there were at least two enemies.

    Aurus looked at the time left for the Confusion debuff. There was only 2 seconds left. At this point in time, Aurus knew that he would either move forward or move backward to avoid the enemies from the sides.

    "But..." A thought suddenly shed in his head, remembering something his illusionist friend told him back then. "At this stage of the game, inflicting debuffs on enemies would only be effective when hit directly."

    From this, he was sure that the stick that inflicted the Confusion debuff on him wouldn''t be on the left or right side of his body since the pollen had to cover arge part of the body for it to take effect!

    Aurus gritted his teeth at the thought. There were only two ces left for the stick he wanted to kill to be at, either in front of him or behind him. Without any way to find out where the stick was, he was stuck at a crossroads on which direction to head. But then, he just steeled himself and said, "You know what? I''ll just rely on my instincts!"

    Whoosh!

    "Now!"

    The Confusion debuff finally disappeared, allowing Aurus to see everything in his surroundings. After one nce, he made a judgement to move...forward!

    Whoosh!

    Bang!

    At the ce where Aurus previously stood, was a small pile of violet pollen. This pollen was the [Confusion Pollen] of the Sakura race.

    Aurus couldn''t help but smile as he looked at the stick in front of him. That''s right. Instead of moving backward, he instead moved forward to face the Sakura stick head on!

    "[Nut Shot]!"

    Bang!

    After he shot the skill, he felt three sticks heading towards him at a slow speed whenpared to him. He dodged the three sticks with ease and shot another [Nut Shot] to one stick after the cooldown was done, surprisingly killing it.

    "Eh?" Aurus was surprised. Shouldn''t the sticks in this area have high HP? But while he was pondering on that question...

    Two nuts that were heading towards him came out of nowhere!

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    Of course, the nuts were moving at a speed that was still manageable for Aurus, who dodged it with rtive ease.

    Aurus took a few deep breaths...well photosynthesized for a few seconds before looking at his current situation.

    A few decimeters away from him were two sticks that were somewhat scrawny in size, yet had this faint menacing aura surrounding them. Beside them was a broken stick that had the same appearance, presumably the stick that was killed in one shot by Aurus.

    Behind the two sticks was a slightly gray branch that had a pinkish tint to its bark. This stick had three pink flowers on its body, while two sticks stood on each side, nuts prepared to shoot once more.

    "Damn," Aurus couldn''t help but curse. "I can''t believe my luck is this bad that an Elite enemy encounters me while I was evolving [Fruit Creation]."

    If evolutions could be differentiated into normal evolutions and Special evolutions, of course there are also different tiers of enemies. Normal enemies are just like the Lesser Mahogany Branch Aurus fought a while ago, it was basically a weaker version of the ss the yer chose. But Elite enemies are on a different level.

    Not only do they have stronger stats whenpared to normal enemies, they even have skills that allow them to do more than the three normal stats!

    Ding! Ding!

    ''Aurus has dealt 6 HP damage to [Sakura Tamer].''

    ''Aurus has dealt 6 HP damage to [Lesser Mahogany Stick].''

    ''[Lesser Mahogany Stick] has been in.''

    ''Experience +5''

    The notifications exined what Aurus was fighting up against. He also understood why the stick he attacked died in one shot.

    "Although I''m up a Sakura Tamer, it can only tame Stick-level [1] species at most."

    Since the Sakura Tamer is in the Lesser Experience Haven, that meant that it would be limited in its choices of species to tame. Even if it tried to tame species on the same level, it would fail as those kinds of species would be alert to not let their bodies be controlled.

    "Identify [Sakura Tamer]!"

    Ding!

    _______

    [Sakura Tamer (Special)] (Level 3)

    HP: 29/35

    _______

    "I would have to fire 5 more nuts before it diespletely," Aurus calcted how much shots he would have to do.

    "Unless..." All of a sudden, Aurus started to charge towards the two Lesser Mahogany Sticks in front of him.

    "...If I kill the small fries first!"

    "[Nut Shot]!"

    Bang!

    One of the two sticks in front of him broke into the two after being hit with an ash gray nut. Aurus instantly removed the notification screen after seeing that he gained 5 experience. Afterwards, he started to move closer towards the other stick.

    At this moment, the Sakura Tamer couldn''t stand it any further andmanded the stick in front of Aurus to fall back. Not long after, itmanded the two Lesser Walnut Sticks beside it to shoot at Aurus. Of course, since the vanguards are Mahogany sticks, then the rangers would be Walnut sticks, right?

    Following the orders of their master, the remaining Mahogany stick rolled back at a speed which Aurus could catch up to, but did not bother. At the same time, two nuts headed towards Aurus. Aurus didn''t n to dodge it, he wanted to see the level of defense he had.

    Bang! Bang!

    ''You have received 0.2 HP damage.''

    ''You have received 0.2 HP damage.''

    Aurus couldn''t help but grin at the damage he received. It was extremely miniscule whenpared to hisrge HP bar.

    "Man...your sticks are weak."

    Aurus then rolled towards the Mahogany stick after making sure the cooldown for his skill was over. As he was rolling, he changed his regeneration to HP regeneration as he sprouted 5 fruits once more.

    Ding!

    ''[Regenerative Fruit Creation] has leveled up.''

    Aurus couldn''t help but chuckle after hearing the notification sound, producing one more green nut on his body.

    "[Nut Shot]!"

    Bang!

    As if the Mahogany stick was running for its life, it was shot in the back, instantly breaking apart into multiple pieces. If there was any blood, it would look more gruesome rather than just be splinters.

    The Sakura Tamer stood in its ce. It couldn''t move...well it''s more to say that it didn''t move. It didn''t move because of the shock Aurus brought to it.

    As a B-grade Inanimate, the Sakura Tamer had a pretty young soul that allowed it to tame lesser species. Nheless, since it only had a young soul, it didn''t know how to choose ita fights.

    Likewise, the Lesser Walnut Sticks on its sides were frozen in ce since the Sakura Tamer and its tamed sticks shared emotions.

    Using this chance, Aurus shot another nut towards one of the Lesser Walnut Sticks, sessfully filling up his experience bar.

    Ding!

    ''Aurus has leveled up.''

    At this point, Aurus moved closer to the Sakura Tamer who was still frozen in ce and said.

    "You''re next."

    --------

    [1] There are tiers to stick species.. From lowest to highest: Twig, Stick, Branch, and so on.

 Chapter 13 - Delayed Nuts

    Trying to defend itself from the possible onught, the Sakura Tamermanded the only tamed stick it had to charge towards Aurus with full speed.

    Aurus looked at this and smirked. He easily dodged the Lesser Walnut Stick''s charge with his extremely high-leveled [Roll++] skill. Of course, those of the Walnut race did not need to move at high speeds, thus their movement skill is severelycking.

    Aurus used the time it took for the Lesser Walnut Stick to rotate to prepare a shot that would easily kill the stick in one shot. Of course, it was [Nut Shot].

    But all of a sudden...

    Ding!

    A notification sound popped up, shocking Aurus who was sure that he didn''t gain enough experience for something to level up.

    ''[Nut Shot] has leveled up.''

    "Ah," Aurus understood. It did seem weird that [Nut Shot] didn''t level up at all with the amount of shots he has taken already. He only needed 3 experience points to level the [Nut Shot] skill to level 2, andbine it with his godly passive skill. If you think about it, it''s weird that the skill level up notification was extremely dyed.

    Thinking about this, Aurus got to a certain conclusion.

    "Is this..g?"

    Yes. Lag. The bane of every yer, not only in ISE, but in any game that needed the inte to connect. Aurus knew whatg was and he hated it to the core, but he just didn''t understand why his system isgging behind in notifications when no inte exists in the world of Erudinia. Not to mention, the system is connected to Aurus'' soul!

    "Haah...if I find a way to fix this problem, I''m going to¡ª" Aurus was muttering something as he shot out a nut, killing the Lesser Walnut Stick in one go. But a sound he never expected to hear once more popped up.

    Ding!

    ''Aurus has dealt 11 HP damage to [Lesser Walnut Stick].''

    ''Experience +5''

    "Phew... it''s just a battle screen notification." Aurus couldn''t help but let out a sigh of relief. He looked at the damage he dealt and tilted his nonexistent head in confusion. "This isn''t a critical hit at all. My damage has been increased by 50%. I wonder why..."

    After a few moments, he knew the culprit behind it. "The level up."

    Ding!

    "Oh my god..." Now, Aurus truly didn''t expect another notification sound to pop up. He opened the notification screen and well... let''s just say the system has been nerfing him all this time.

    ''[Nut Shot] and [SP Storage] has leveled up.''

    ''[Nut Shot] and [SP Storage] has reached the MAX level.''

    ''[Nut Shot] and [SP Storage] has met the necessary requirements and is ready to evolve.''

    Aurus couldn''t help but press his nonexistent fingers on his nonexistent forehead in stress. If he was in danger, he would be happy with the system telling him that his skills have leveled up...but he didn''t feel any happiness at all. To him, it felt like the system was trolling him.

    Thankfully, the Sakura Tamer was still frozen in ce from the fast-paced killing spree Aurus did from its perspective. To Aurus though, it was extremely slow since of course, he would fight faster species in the future.

    "I''ll have to evolve these skills after I finish this Sakura Tamer." At this point, Aurus didn''t feel any anger towards the Sakura Tamer anymore. Just anger towards his own Existence Evolution System.

    Aurus hastily positioned himself in front of the still frozen Sakura Tamer with his [Roll++] skill and shot a nut.

    Bang!

    Ding!

    ''Aurus has dealt 14 HP damage to [Sakura Tamer].''

    "Oh?" Aurus couldn''t help but raise his nonexistent eyebrows. "It seems that the damage I deal has been increased by 33%. Anyways, if I look at my damage from before the two continuous level ups, I''ve basically doubled my damage output."

    As he was mumbling to himself, the cooldown for the [Nut Shot] skill ended. He then shot another nut towards the Sakura Tamer, bringing its HP down to an extremely critical state.

    Ding!

    ''Aurus has dealt 14 HP damage to Sakura Tamer.''

    ''[Regenerative Fruit Creation] has leveled up twice.''

    Aurus couldn''t help but frown after seeing that one of his most reliable skills, [Regenerative Fruit Creation], also had dyed level ups. And not just one, but two of them!

    "Haah..." Aurus took a deep breath and exhaled loudly as he was sure that the Sakura Tamer wouldn''t attack him. He formed 2 additional green nuts on his body which held more SP than it used thanks to the skill reaching the halfway point ofpletion.

    If one were to look at Aurus'' current stats for HP and SP, it would look like...

    HP: 7/7

    SP: 35/35

    Indeed. With just a level up from his [SP Storage] skill and two level ups from his [Regenerative Fruit Creation] skill, Aurus was able to basically double the amount of HP he had.

    He then spared a nce towards the extremely pitiful Sakura Tamer in front of him and thenmanded the system to identify the enemy in front of him. Thankfully, the system didn''tg this time.

    ________

    [Sakura Tamer (Special)] (Level 3)

    HP: 1/35

    ________

    "Wow...this is some heaven-defying luck," Aurus couldn''t help but say after seeing that the Sakura Tamer was only hanging by a thread.

    "Anyst words?" Aurus went closer to the branch as he prepared a nut to end its life. He wasn''t expecting that the branch would actually answer his question, but it turns out, fate works the opposite of what you think.

    "No...Kill...Me..." Since the vitality of the Sakura Tamer was extremely low, it could only force itself to say these three words. It also shocked Aurus, since from this he realized that he was actually speaking out loud whenever he thought he was talking to himself.

    "I should be careful with my surroundings," Aurus reminded himself as he looked at the branch in front of him and sighed.

    "Think of it as fate."

    Bang!

    The nut Aurus shot collided directly at the center of the Sakura Tamer, breaking the branch into two halves, with some splinters being scattered all over the ground.

    Aurus looked at this and sighed. "Thank you for your donation."

    Ding!

    ''Aurus has dealt 12 HP damage to [Sakura Tamer].''

    ''Experience +30''

    ''Aurus has leveled up.''

    Aurus looked at this with a frown. He thenined out to the skies, "What the heck?! My skill have level ups that are dyed by when I level up, it''s just on time? What''s the meaning of this?"

    Silence filled the surroundings afterwards since the system didn''t exactly interpret it as amand. Aurus sighed once more and said to himself, "I''ll evolve [Nut Shot] and [SP Storage] first then I''ll think about this problemter on."

    With that goal in mind, Aurus thenmanded.

    "Evolve [SP Storage]."

 Chapter 14 - Evolving Skills

    "Evolve [SP Storage]."

    Ding!

    ________

    Please select the skill that [SP Storage] would evolve into:

    [Condensed SP Storage]

    [Expanded SP Storage]

    [Flux SP Storage]

    ________

    Looking at the choices in front of him, Aurus pondered over his past experiences with the [SP Storage] skill when he yed as a branch of the Mahogany race back then, specializing as a close range attacker.

    "Hmm...if I remember my choices correctly, the evolution I chose for [SP Storage] would be to expand it so I have more SP to use for skills. But now that I''m aiming to be a mage, I can''t haphazardly choose that right?"

    From the various MMORPGs Aurus has encountered and yed back then in his previous life, mages were reliant on their Intelligence stat as it was the only way for them to increase their MP, attack power, and of course, the amount of spells they could unleash.

    Surprisingly, ISE pursued a sense of reality that MMORPGs couldn''t achieve, wherein the purity of the SP the yer uses affects the strength of the skills and the casting speed of the skills. Aurus has faced a lot of mage ss yers before in ISE, most of them focused on achieving a high level of purity for their SP rather than a vessel that seemed like it would hold a boundless amount of SP.

    Nheless, in thete-game periods, many mage ss yers would be able to achieve both, bringing terror to every yer they met.

    "Identify [Condensed SP Storage], [Expanded SP Storage], and [Flux SP Storage]."

    Ding! Ding! Ding!

    _________

    [Condensed SP Storage] (Level 1/5)

    Experience: 0/5

    An upgraded version of the [SP Storage] skill, focused on achieving a higher purity for SP. Discarding the expansion of the storage itself, the storage has found a way to condense the SP the stick holds into a purer form, allowing skills to be casted with half the amount of SP while having higher strength.

    Maximum SP capacity: 5 SP

    SP regeneration rate: 1 SP per minute

    ________

    ________

    [Expanded SP Storage] (Level 1/5)

    Experience: 0/5

    An upgraded version of the [SP Storage] skill, focused on storing high amounts of SP. The storage expands in terms of internal space, yet remains the same externally. Once evolved to this skill, the storage can hold twice as much SP than before in the initial levels while giving the stick the ability to hold even more SP atter levels.

    Maximum SP capacity: 10 SP

    SP regeneration rate: 1 SP per minute

    ________

    ________

    [Flux SP Storage] (Level 1/5)

    Experience: 0/5

    An upgraded version of the [SP Storage] skill, focused on allowing the SP to be regenerated at a faster rate. Once evolved to this skill, the storage mutates to have SP receptors that allow the stick to absorb more SP than usual, increasing the rate of SP regeneration. In exchange, the expansion of storage has been discarded.

    Maximum SP capacity: 5 SP

    SP regeneration rate: 2 SP per minute

    ________

    Although expanding his storage and increasing his SP regeneration rate enticed him to pick those choices, he made sure to pick his choices with a calm mind and chose the [Condensed SP Storage] skill.

    Now, what are the possible reasons as to why Aurus chose this skill rather than the others? Well...since he aims to y as a mage this time although it''s his second life, he''s trying to reference his skills from the top mages of ISE.

    Since he was able to achieve the existence level of God in his previous life, he was able to have a lot of connections with many mages near the existence level of God or at the level itself, and most of them had spells that had a cost at thousands up to millions of SP! Take into consideration that all of the mages Aurus has met have achieved the highest purity for SP achievable in the game...yet it still costs a lot of SP!

    And that''s why...

    Ding!

    ''[SP Storage] has been evolved to [Condensed SP Storage].''

    Aurus chose it, to prepare for the future.

    At this moment in time, he couldn''t help but sigh. Whenever he wanted to evolve his skills, he would have to go through multiple screens that mostly held useless information just so he could make a choice rather than seeing the instant benefits.

    "System, please enable the option of seeing the instant effects of skill and species evolutions in one go," Aurus decided andmanded.

    Ding!

    ''The option ''Short Evolution Info'' has been enabled.''

    Since the option was in the game, of course, it was also avable in his system as well. He couldn''t help but let out a light smile as hemanded, "Evolve [Nut Shot]."

    [Nut Shot], the first offensive skill he obtained and would eventually lead him to being a proper mage. His choices in evolving skills would affect his future whether he ends up bing a mage or a ranger.

    Ding!

    ________

    Please select the skill that [Nut Shot] would evolve into:

    [Dual Nut Shot]

    [Quick Nut Shot]

    [Infused Nut Shot (Special)]

    ________

    "Eh?" Aurus couldn''t believe his eyes...well he didn''t have eyes in the first ce but still. "I know they exist but...how did I get them so early?"

    Just like how evolutions have normal and Special types, skills also have normal and Special types which affects the power of the skills depending on the tier the skill is at.

    From his past memories, he only had a bunch of Special skills at the Transcendent skill. It was around 7 at most. His friends were not far off from the number as well, having around 4-8 Special skills.

    "Identify all of the possible skill evolutions."

    Ding! Ding! Ding!

    ________

    [Dual Nut Shot]

    In exchange for more bullets shot, firepower stays the same.

    Number of bullets: 1 -> 2

    SP Cost: 1 SP -> 1 SP

    Cooldown: 5 seconds -> 8 seconds

    ________

    ________

    [Quick Nut Shot]

    Gains more firepower thanks to its increased speed. Has a chance tond a critical hit (stacks over innate critical hit chance).

    Critical hit chance: 10%

    SP Cost: 1 SP -> 3 SP

    Cooldown: 5 seconds -> 10 seconds

    ________

    ________

    [Infused Nut Shot (Special)]

    Thanks to the stick having high amounts of SP, the bullets can be infused with high amounts of SP, allowing them to deal more damage.

    Levels of Infusion: 0 -> 3

    SP Cost: 1 SP -> 2 SP (Level 0), 5 SP (Level 1), 10 SP (Level 2), 20 SP (Level 3)

    Cooldown: 5 seconds -> 10 seconds

    ________

    Looking at the simplified information screen in front of him, Aurus could now easily find out which skill could offer him the most benefits, and of course, he would have to pick the [Infused Nut Shot].

    "From its method of usage, it could give me a chance to evolve it from a skill into a magic spell!" Aurus'' eyes gleamed as he confirmed his chance.

    Skills could be evolved into magic spells when a yer is of the mage ss. They also follow the same tier levels: Mortal, Transcendent, Divine. But the main difference is that, Mortal magic spells have a might equivalent to Transcendent skills. Well if you think about it, the spells mages conjure are definitely out of this world, right?

    Ding!

    ''[Nut Shot] has been evolved into [Infused Nut Shot (Special)].''

    Aurus then looked at his skill screen and checked his progress, feeling quite contented. Yet one thing stuck out though.

    "I''m going to have to find out how to improve [Wind Affinity], Aurus murmured.

    "But first, how the heck do I fix dyed skill level ups?"

 Chapter 15 - OS

    It did seem weird though. Every time he did something that would garner him a possible level up in his skills, it would usually end up being dyed. Say he shoots three shots within a minute which allows him to level up skill A within mere moments, it ends up bing a level up to skill A many minutester.

    Pondering for a bit, Aurus then asked the question. "System, why are the level ups for skills superbly dyed?"

    Ding!

    "Eh?" Aurus didn''t expect to hear a notification sound. He thought that it was just an inherent fault in the system Kurohana gave him, possibly emting the feeling ofg he despised oh so much. But hearing a notification sound, it seems that that isn''t the case.

    ''To remove dyed skill level ups, please upgrade the Existence Evolution OS.''

    "Existence Evolution OS?" At this moment, Aurus was really confused. Back in his previous life, there was nothing called the Existence Evolution OS, only the Evolution Tree, Genesis Tree, Divinity Realm, and so on.

    While he was wondering why there was something like this, an idea shed in his mind.

    "Since I''ve been reborn into a stick, the system I have is from the game but it doesn''t stop there," Aurus continued to deduce until all of a sudden, his eyes gleamed.

    "Does that mean that I can evolve the system to the point that it exceeds the capabilities of the system within the game?"

    With this in mind, Aurus asked, "How do I upgrade the Existence Evolution OS?"

    Ding!

    ''To open the Existence Evolution OS, please say ''Open OS''. To upgrade the OS, you can use OS points.''

    Aurus only listened to the first statement and ignored the second, prompting him to say, "Open OS!"

    Ding!

    In an instant, a somewhatrge screen appeared in front of his field of vision, upying most of his view. Nheless, he made sure to check if there were enemies nearby before asking so he could be considered to be safe at the moment.

    _________

    [Existence Evolution OS]

    OS Points: 1

    ----

    Level Up Synchronization (0/10)

    Cost to upgrade: 1 OS Point

    ----

    Artificial Intelligence (0/1)

    Cost to upgrade: 1 OS Point

    ----

    Memory DLC (0/3)

    Cost to upgrade: 1 OS Point

    ________

    "Hmm..." Aurus couldn''t help but frown at the three options on therge screen. One of them was rted to the problem he was currently facing, but the other two were something of another level.

    He assumed that the remaining two options on the screen would possibly affect his future progress.

    All of a sudden, he noticed something.

    "OS Points? Where do I get them? How did I get one?" Three questions instantly appeared in Aurus'' mind. Thankfully, the system instantly answered his question.

    Ding!

    ''OS Points are points used by the EEOS to improve itself and adapt to the needs of the user. To obtain them, the user must have to achieve certain tasks. As for how the user got one, it will be answered in due time.''

    Hearing the vague answer that came out from the system, Aurus instantly got an urge to punch the system to shreds, only to realize that the system is intangible and he can''t punch it.

    "Haah..." Aurus calmed himself down by taking a few deep breaths and then looked at the options from a rational perspective.

    "Identify the options in front of me," Aurusmanded.

    Ding! Ding! Ding!

    Within a few seconds, three modestly sized screens appeared in front of therge screen Aurus was staring at a while ago, which allowed him to look at the advantages and disadvantages of each option.

    ________

    [Level Up Synchronization]

    The system was born imperfect, thus bing unreliable whenever the user needs its help. One of these imperfections is that the leveling up of skills is dyed to various degrees, bringing the user''s life in danger. Once upgraded to its first level, the problem shall be removed. Once upgraded to its maximum, there''s a chance for the system to reward twice the amount of level ups.

    Note: Movement skills and yer level ups are excluded.

    ________

    ________

    [Artificial Intelligence]

    The system was born imperfect, thus bing unreliable whenever the user needs its help. One of these imperfections is that it doesn''t have the sentience capable of helping the user in its mundane tasks. Once upgraded, the system attains sentience, allowing the system to adapt to every situation the user is in. It also unlocks the Existence Evolution AI section of the EEOS.

    ________

    ________

    [Memory DLC]

    The system was born imperfect, thus bing unreliable whenever the user needs its help. One of these imperfections is that the system doesn''t allow the user to ess all of their memories, bing a hindrance rather than a tool. Once upgraded to the first level, it allows the user to ess more of their memories, allowing them to use their memories to logically and rationally make decisions. Once upgraded to its maximum, the user can ess all of their memories from their previous life, allowing them to think ahead.

    ________

    Aurus closed the three screens and looked at therge screen once more, letting out a long breath. He was unsure of what to choose. At the moment, he only had one point to use to upgrade the system''s OS, plus he wasn''t sure if there was even a way to upgrade the OS.

    In the end, Aurus closed the screen and sighed.

    "Haah...I guess I''ll have to live with this nuisance for a while. But once I find out that I can earn more OS Points to upgrade the system OS, I''m sure that I''ll use the first one to upgrade Level Up Synchronization."

    cing that thought in the back of his head, Aurus then went to his next problem.

    "[Wind Affinity]."

    [Wind Affinity], a skill Aurus obtained after evolving into the Wind variant of the Walnut Stick species. It was a passive skill that allowed him to increase the attack power and attack speed of the skills he used, yet for some reason, along the way, even in his fights, it never gained any experience. Not even once.

    In his previous life, Aurus would always hear that any yer that gains an elemental affinity skill would surely be a strong existence at the Ascendant or God tier. They would have the power to shake the earth and tear the skies asunder.

    Plus, Aurus was sure that upgrading his [Wind Affinity] skill in addition to gaining more SP would allow him more evolutions once he gets the chance to evolve to an A-Grade Inanimate.

    Thinking for a bit, Aurus opened his map and set a marker towards a ce that only yers at the level of at least the X-Grade Inanimate would tread towards.

    "Set a destination to the Tempest Cliff."

 Chapter 16 - To The Tempest Cliff

    Ding!

    Within seconds, a clear blue path manifested on top of his current surroundings while arge blue triangle also manifested on top of his body, hovering with a number over it.

    15,000 meters.

    In other words, 15 kilometers. In his current life, it would be the greatest distance he has ever trekked before. Even the whole Lesser Experience Haven had a diameter of 5 kilometers. To think that he was going to a ce that was 3 Lesser Experience Havens apart from him. To any rational person, it was crazy talk.

    But for Aurus, he would do it because he remembered a few things from a friends of his that luckily gained an elemental affinity skill.

    "Head towards a ce that is abundant in the certain element your element affinity is needing and stay there for a while so it levels up." That friend of his told him this statement, and surprisingly in his previous life, Aurus was able to get an elemental affinity skill and this statement helped him a lot.

    "[Roll++]," hemanded.

    Whoosh!

    In an instant, as if a tempestuous storm was being created around Aurus'' surroundings, a strong wind aura covered Aurus'' body and propelled him forward at a speed that was at least twice of his previous movement speed when [Roll++] was at Level 1. Then again, thinking about it, his [Roll++] was already at Level 7, not long from reaching its peak!

    "Onwards to the Tempest Cliff!" Aurus shouted as he embarked on his first long journey towards a ce filled with dangers for his current level.

    ...

    The world of Erudinia was split into 4 continents, one of these continents stood arge kingdom known as the Seraph Kingdom. Unfortunately, this kingdom was in the same continent where Aurus was.

    XXXX Continent, Seraph Kingdom, an unknown room.

    Within this room was a man in histe twenties that exuded an aura of arrogance and wisdom, which were two contrasting qualities. But in front of this man, it seemed that both of these qualities harmonized each other, making him look like a brave hero of legends.

    He wore clothing that was befitting of his rank. He had jet ck hair and yellow irises that made anyone who looked directly at it kneel down with respect.

    This person was one of the 12 Princes of the Seraph Kingdom, Prince Vanadir.

    Ding! Ding! Ding!

    A melodious chime sound could be heard resonating throughout the room. Prince Vanadir located where the sound came from and not long after, pulled out a crystal from his pocket. This crystal was the one causing the melodious chime sound.

    "A call? I wonder who could it be?" Prince Vanadir didn''t really expect to get a call from someone at this time. It was only noon at the moment, he just finished eating his lunch. Nheless, he epted the call.

    Kacha!

    "Hello...hello...Y-Your Highness..." At first, the voice that came from the crystal was choppy but after a while, the voice became clearer, letting Vanadir recognize who was calling him.

    "Ah! If it isn''t Dane, my great High Mage friend!" Vanadir couldn''t help but reply with a smile after recognizing who called him. "Since you called me, I assume that you''re going to tell me something important, yes?"

    Dane, who was at the other side of the call, nodded unconsciously even though Vanadir couldn''t see him nod. "Indeed, it''s about the material you needed in order to craft your specialized weapon."

    Vanadir didn''t expect that Dane would call him about the material he needed. He vigorously stood up from where he sat and shouted in surprise, "What?! You''re telling me you found the Wind Branch?"

    "No," Dane shook his head as he replied. At this moment, he let out a small giggle which could be heard from the other side of the call. "It''s something even better."

    "What could possibly be better than a Wind Branch?" Vanadir frowned a bit after hearing Dane''s statement, but after a while, Dane''s eyes widened in shock. "Don''t tell me it''s..."

    "It''s what you''re thinking," Dane replied with certainty. "A mana-infused Wind Branch. A woodcutter happened to pass by it a few days ago while he was chopping some trees from the Deste Forest. Do you want to know its true name?"

    Hearing the phrase ''mana-infused Wind Branch'', Vanadir couldn''t help but jump in joy. ''With a mana-infused Wind Branch as the core of my specialized weapon, with my current power as a Rank 2 Junior Windwalker, I could possibly reach thebat power of a beginner Rank 4 Grand Windwalker!''

    At this moment, Vanadir knew he was getting too excited and took a few deep breaths to calm himself. Not long after, he then asked, "What''s its true name?"

    Dane, after a few moments of silence, answered.

    "The Wind Walnut Branch."

    ...

    Unknowingly, over three days have passed ever since Aurus started heading towards the Tempest Cliff. During this time, other than rolling, he was raising the levels for his [SP Storage] skill, [Regenerative Fruit Creation] skill, and [Infused Nut Shot] skill.

    To be honest, who could me Aurus who previously didn''t have any skills to level while rolling other than his movement skill? Of course, he would use this idle time to make himself stronger as a rough n was formted in his mind.

    "First, raise [Wind Affinity] to at least B-grade Mortal level. Then, head back to the Lesser Experience Haven and kill the Boss of the Haven to obtain a special item. Afterwards, evolve."

    After a while, another notification screen popped up in front of Aurus. Aurus looked at it for a bit before cing it to the side of his field of vision as the notification sound he wanted to pop up hasn''t appeared yet.

    And finally, after shortening the distance to only 4 kilometers between him and the Tempest Cliff, Aurus looked at the notification screen in front of him, making his eyes light up.

    Finally, the notification he was waiting for!

    Ding!

    ''[Regenerative Fruit Creation] has leveled up twice.''

    ''[Condensed SP Storage] has leveled up four times.''

    ''[Infused Nut Shot] has leveled up four times.''

    ''[Roll++] has leveled up thrice.''

    ''[Regenerative Fruit Creation], [Condensed SP Storage], [Infused Nut Shot], and [Roll++] has reached the MAX level.''

    ''[Regenerative Fruit Creation], [Condensed SP Storage], [Infused Nut Shot], and [Roll++] has met the necessary requirements needed and is ready to evolve.''

    At this point, Aurus stopped where he was and looked at his surroundings to see if any possible enemies were nearby. Making sure that there was none, he let out a grin only he could see.

    "Man, I ended up heading towards the Tempest Cliff at a level lower than what was rmended. I shouldn''t have haphazardly decided to head there without preparing. Anyways, raising all of these to the max level would help mest a bit longer there so..."

    "Evolve [Roll++]."

 Chapter 17 - Power Boost

    Ding!

    Since Aurus enabled the option of letting him see the instant benefits of the skill evolution, he was able to decide which skill would help him in the long run.

    ________

    Please choose the skill that [Roll++] would evolve into:

    [Ascended Roll]

    [Sonic Roll X Burst]

    [Tempest Roll (Special)]

    ________

    "Eh? Another Special skill? How does that even happen?" Aurus was in disbelief after seeing that evolving his [Roll++] skill would lead him to getting another Special skill. Getting [Infused Nut Shot] was understandable since he had more SP than usual, allowing him to choose that option.

    "But seriously though...a Special movement skill? Ah whatever. I''ll just identify each and every of them."

    And so he did.

    Ding! Ding! Ding!

    ________

    [Ascended Roll]

    You''re already rolling at a speed that''s fast for a stick, but I guess you want to roll even faster.

    Rate of movement: 150 meters per hour -> 250 meters per hour

    ________

    ________

    [Sonic Roll X Burst]

    Look who''s back to haunt you, indeed it''s the upgraded version of [Breeze Burst].

    Rate of movement: 150 meters per hour -> nothing changes

    Burst distance: 0 -> 500 meters

    Cooldown time: 0 -> 3 hours

    ________

    ________

    [Tempest Roll (Special)]

    Being one with the wind, your proficiency with the Roll series of movement skills has ascended to another level, allowing you to move at high speeds for a short amount of time.

    Rate of movement: 150 meters per hour -> 250 meters per hour

    The skill [Tempest Burst] is created.

    ________

    "Man, looking at these short descriptions, it feels like it''s telling me to choose [Tempest Roll] rather than the other two." Aurus sighed. "I''m sure as hell that I''m gonna choose [Tempest Roll] since it''s a Special skill, but what''s [Tempest Burst]?"

    Ding!

    ________

    [Tempest Burst]

    With high proficiency and affinity with the wind, the stick can temporarily controlrge amounts of wind, allowing the stick to either move faster, attack faster, or attack with stronger force.

    Effect: 2x the movement speed, attack speed, and attack power

    Effect duration: 10 seconds

    Cooldown: 6 hours

    [Note: Effect, effect duration, and cooldown amount is proportional to the level of the [Tempest Roll] skill]

    ________

    Aurus instantly became speechless after reading the effects of [Tempest Burst]. Since [Tempest Roll] was a Special skill, he expected some special effect, and [Tempest Burst] was that special effect. But who knew that [Tempest Burst] did not just increase his firepower and movement speed, but it also did not use any SP at all?!

    Without hesitation, Aurus chose [Tempest Roll]. It was a skill that was hard to pass.

    Ding!

    ''[Roll++] has been evolved into [Tempest Roll].''

    "Okay next..." Aurus said. "Evolve [Condensed SP Storage]."

    Ding!

    ________

    Please choose the skill that [Condensed SP Storage] would evolve into:

    [Purified SP Storage]

    [Broadened SP Storage]

    [Condensed Flux SP Storage]

    ________

    "Hmm..." Looking at his choices, Aurus had a feeling that each of these choices either revolved over three aspects: purification, expansion, and regeneration. But of course, heeding the words of his mage friends, maxing out the purity of SP will be useful in the long run.

    "Identify."

    Ding! Ding! Ding!

    ________

    [Purified SP Storage]

    When you thought SP couldn''t get anymore purer, but it did.

    Maximum SP capacity: 10 SP -> 10 SP

    SP regeneration rate: 1 SP per minute -> 1 SP per minute

    [Note: SP cost of skills have been halved]

    ________

    ________

    [Broadened SP Storage]

    The SP is already condensed so why bother condensing it further if you can expand the amount of SP you can hold?

    Maximum SP capacity: 10 SP -> 20 SP

    SP regeneration rate: 1 SP per minute -> 1 SP per minute

    ________

    ________

    [Condensed Flux SP Storage]

    Condensed SP but faster regeneration rate. Neat.

    Maximum SP capacity: 10 SP -> 10 SP

    SP regeneration rate: 1 SP per minute -> 2 SP per minute

    ________

    Of course, Aurus wouldn''t waver in his choices, picking [Purified SP Storage] from the get go. Did he need increased SP regeneration rate? He had the Fruit Creation skill for that. Expanded SP storage? Fruit Creation skill.

    Ding!

    ''[Condensed SP Storage] has been evolved into [Purified SP Storage].''

    Before continuing to evolve the two skills he could evolve, an idea shed through his head, making him p himself.

    "How could I forget about this...System, make the skill grades visible."

    Ding!

    ''Skill grades are now visible.''

    Aurus nodded at the system''s voice before continuing.

    "Evolve [Regenerative Fruit Creation]."

    Ding!

    ________

    Please choose the skill that [Regenerative Fruit Creation] would evolve into:

    [Siphoning Fruit Creation]

    [Hallucinatory Fruit Creation]

    [Revitalising Fruit Creation]

    ________

    "Oh?" Aurus raised his nonexistent eyebrow after looking at the choices for the evolution of the [Regenerative Fruit Creation] skill.

    "Identify."

    Ding! Ding! Ding!

    ________

    [Siphoning Fruit Creation]

    Grade: A (Mortal)

    Rather than regenerating naturally from the environment, why not just siphon them from your enemies.

    Maximum amount of fruits: 10 -> 10

    Maximum amount of regenerative fruits: 3 -> 0

    Maximum amount of siphoning fruits: 0 -> 3

    Maximum SP capacity per fruit: 5 SP -> 5 SP

    [Note: Only 20% of the enemy''s HP and SP will be siphoned at most]

    ________

    ________

    [Hallucinatory Fruit Creation]

    Grade: A (Mortal)

    In exchange for regeneration, instead you inflict debuffs on your enemies, allowing you to kill them faster.

    Maximum amount of fruits: 10 -> 10

    Maximum amount of regenerative fruits: 3 -> 0

    Maximum amount of hallucinatory fruits: 0 -> 3

    Maximum SP capacity per fruit: 5 SP -> 5 SP

    [Note: Debuffs at the starting level are only paralysis and confusion. When eaten by another species, they might be high.]

    ________

    ________

    [Revitalising Fruit Creation]

    Grade: A (Mortal)

    Enhancing the limits of regeneration, the fruits can heal more SP/HP amount of time. Not to mention, the fruits can hold more SP thanks to the fruits being evolved rather than reced.

    Maximum amount of fruits: 10 -> 15

    Maximum amount of regeneration fruits: 3 -> 5

    Maximum SP capacity per fruit: 5 SP -> 10 SP

    ________

    Without a doubt, Aurus chose thest choice, [Revitalising Fruit Creation]. Of course, who wouldn''t choose a skill that increased your SP capacity and regeneration rate when you''re aiming to be a mage?

    Ding!

    ''[Regenerative Fruit Creation] has been evolved into [Revitalising Fruit Creation].''

    Aurus looked at the two A-grade skills he had and the S-grade movement skill he had. He was truly happy to be able to evolve these skills at this grade while he was still a B-grade Inanimate. He was bound to get at least Special evolutions once he reached the MAX level.

    "And finally...Evolve [Infused Nut Shot]."

    Ding!

    His offensive skill that helped him kill enemies so he could level up...well his only offensive skill to help him kill enemies so he could up. He was finally evolving it to A-grade.

    ________

    Please choose the skill that [Infused Nut Shot] would evolve into:

    [Extreme Infused Nut Shot (Special)]

    [Lowest Nut Spell Core (Special)]

    [Nut Trident Triad (Special)]

    ________

    His eyes lit up at the options given to him.

    "It came. It came!" Aurus was exhrated to see that a Spell Core skill appeared on the choices of his possible evolutions for the [Infused Nut Shot] skill.

    To a mage yer, a Spell Core skill was the gateway to start learning magic spells and is even the foundation for the power of said magic spells.

    "But wait a second... just a normal Spell Core?" Aurus felt that something was off after looking at the name. "I''m a Wind Walnut Stick, which means that my magic spells should have the Wind element to them. In that case, it should be called a [Lowest Wind Nut Spell Core] or something."

    "Hmm...maybe it''s because I haven''t raised [Wind Affinity] yet?" Aurus felt that this might be the reason why he couldn''t get a Wind Nut Spell Core skill as a choice.

    "If that''s the case, I''ll just evolve it to the one of the two choices then. Nheless, I want to see its effects."

    "Identify."

    Ding!

    _______

    [Extreme Infused Nut Shot (Special)]

    Grade: A (Mortal)

    With the stick''s SP capacity being extremely high, the nut could be infused with more SP, thus being granted more power.

    SP Cost: 2, 5, 10, 20 SP -> 3, 10, 20, 30 SP (Level 0-3), 50 SP (Level 4), 70 SP (Level 5)

    Cooldown: 10 seconds -> 15 seconds

    ________

    ________

    [Lowest Nut Spell Core]

    Grade: A (Mortal)

    Understanding how SP is formed and utilized, the stick gains the idea of using its nuts as a foundation for the spells that consume SP, thus creating a Spell Core. Every time the Spell Core bes stronger, more magic spells can be used and the spells'' attack power gets stronger.

    Spell damage boost: 5%

    Maximum number of spells: 1

    Spell list: [Energy Bolt]

    SP Cost: 2, 5, 10, 20 SP -> 20 SP

    Cooldown: 10 seconds -> 0 seconds

    [Note: The Spell Core can be created and disassembled at any time.]

    ________

    ________

    [Nut Trident Triad (Special)]

    Utilizing the intricacies of SP and the walnut produced by the stick, the stick is able to use its ingenuity to allow the nuts shot to have three forms: one being endless, one being deadly, and one being unavoidable.

    SP Cost: 5 SP per second (Sanction form), 30 SP (Judgement form), 20 SP (Law form)

    Cooldown: 10 seconds -> 15 seconds

    [Note: The Sanction form shoots out an endless amount of nuts, Judgement form shoots out a single nut having extreme attack power, and Law form shoots out a single nut that''s unavoidable by the enemy.]

    ________

    "As expected from the lowest grade of the Spell Core skill, only the most basic spell is added," Aurus muttered as he remembered his mage friends using [Energy Bolt] multiple times to increase their spell repertoire.

    "The [Extreme Infused Nut Shot] is just an upgraded version of [Infused Nut Shot]. It doesn''t really bring anything new to the table. But [Nut Trident Triad]...I wonder if it could make the possible Spell Core skill be more special once I evolve [Wind Affinity] to a higher grade?"

    After a bit of pondering, Aurus decided to choose the [Nut Trident Triad] skill. He was eager to see the possibilities while fighting enemies of the Tempest Cliff.

    "Since they''re at least S-grade, I''m sure that [Nut Trident Triad] will help me be flexible for every situation."

    Ding!

    ''[Infused Nut Shot] has been evolved into [Nut Trident Triad].''

    Aurus nodded and then used his newfound [Tempest Roll] skill to shorten the distance between him and the Tempest Cliff.

    "I hope I survive the oing onught."

 Chapter 18 - Realization

    Over 15 hours have passed since Aurus evolved four of his skills in preparation for his journey into the Tempest Cliff. Three of these skills were now at the A-grade Mortal level, while the remaining skill, which was his movement skill, is now at the S-grade Mortal level. This level is only one grade away from being X-grade, and two grades away from being a Transcendent level skill.

    "Haah...I finally made it," Aurus couldn''t help but let out a sigh of relief after seeing the view in front of him. At the ce where he was currently standing, there was only a slight breeze, faintly noticeable by a normal person. For Aurus who had [Wind Affinity] although a basic version of it, he was sensitive to wind so he could feel it without a doubt.

    A few meters away from him was the entrance to the Tempest Cliff. This part of the Tempest Cliff alone...had winds exceeding possibly 100 kilometer per hour speeds. And to think that the name of the cliff was Tempest Cliff, anyone withmon sense would of course think that the speed of the winds would only get more and more intense.

    Ding!

    Breaking the somewhat tense atmosphere, a notification sound popped up, scaring Aurus who was intensely staring at the ce in front of him. Nheless, he was able to calm himself down and look at the notification with a slight smile.

    ''[Tempest Roll] has leveled up.''

    "Sweet. I only have 18 more levels to go before I can evolve it to an X-grade skill," Aurus sarcasticallyughed at his progress.

    In his memories, the maximum level of skills and species double every grade. For a skill at C-grade, the maximum level is 3. This is then doubled to 5 once the skill reaches B-grade. Afterwards, it bes 10 for A-grade, 20 for S-grade and so on.

    Thinking about it further, the maximum level for Transcendent and Divine level skills would be at the hundreds...no, even thousands! Combine that with high experience requirements and you''re basically living a grinding hell.

    "Good thing I have that passive skill," Aurus let out a sigh of relief. Kurohana was really thoughtful to give Aurus that kind of skill.

    "Anyways, I should prepare before entering."

    The amount of regeneration fruits Aurus can currently produce is 5. Without hesitation, Aurus produced 5 regeneration fruits focused on regenerating his SP and positioned them at one end of his body. Afterwards, he formed 15 fruits, 14 of which were transformed into SP storage while the remaining one was left as a normal nut. Aurus had a feeling that his evolved offensive skill still needed a spare nut to use.

    Nheless, the amount of SP Aurus currently had in proportion was definitely...outstanding to say the least.

    "Now let''s see how much SP I...EH?!" Aurus looked at the two bars on top of his body, only to shout out in surprise at his current stats.

    HP: 8/8

    SP: 150/150

    That''s correct. With the help of Aurus'' overpowered passive skill named [Blessing of the Reincarnation Goddess], he was able to amass 150 SP while still being a B-Grade Inanimate.

    Looking at thisrge number gave Aurus the confidence to rush towards the center of the Tempest Cliff.

    "Alright, here we go! [Tempest Roll]!"

    Whoosh!

    But he ended up getting carried away by the strong wind.

    "Oh noooooooo!"

    ...

    Kurohana''s dimension. The God of the Underworld, Hadouken, was talking to her.

    "Teach me how to craft a Primordial Weapon," Hadouken looked at Kurohana with a fawning gaze, which only made it look creepy.

    Kurohana looked at Hadouken for a bit, staring at his unsettling puppy eyes. Making a decision, she pressed her fingers on his forehead as she pondered before replying, "Well...A Primordial Weapon is already a second tier Divine level weapon. Crafting one is multiple times harder than crafting an Archaic weapon."

    She then exined with a serious tone, "Nheless, it''s way easier than crafting a Lesser Divine Weapon, needing materials from the God Realm. Primordial Weapons need a Demigod grade material as a base, that''s for sure. May it be Frigid Eon Metal or Zenith World Bamboo, as long as it''s of the Demigod grade, it can work."

    "But the most important thing needed for a Primordial Weapon is..." Kurohana squinted her eyes, implying that this part is important.

    "A soul."

    "A soul?" Hadouken was slightly confused. ''Why would someone need a soul to create a Primordial weapon, or any weapon to be exact? Doesn''t a weapon only need materials to be crafted?'' Hadouken thought. "What''s the soul for?"

    "The soul is there so your Primordial Weapon bes a Primordial Evolving Weapon, which means it could grow to Lesser Divine, Greater Divine, or even Deity grade," Kurohana replied as a craftswoman who had millions of years of experience. "If you don''t care about that though, you can just shove an Artifux [1] inside the weapon."

    Hadouken pondered over her words for a bit before nodding his head. "I see. Thanks for the suggestion."

    Kurohana then smiled sweetly as if she was looking at her special other. "No problem." Afterwards, the call ended, allowing Kurohana to focus her attention back to Aurus once more.

    "Oh?" Kurohana''s interest was piqued after seeing where Aurus currently was. "He obtained [Wind Affinity] huh? If he pursues that path, that might allow me to craft a weapon that''s more agile than before."

    Kurohana then smiled.

    "Let''s see how far he gets."

    ...

    The Tempest Cliff, a ce only meant for those who have innate affinity with the Wind element or are inclined to the Wind element. Every stick and variant of stick within this ce has adapted to this ce for many years, allowing to move through the wind like it was nothing and utilize the wind to their advantage.

    At this moment, Aurus was still flying through the Tempest Cliff thanks to the strong winds that carried him.

    "Aaaaaah!" Aurus couldn''t help but panic at his current situation. He entered the Tempest Cliff so he could increase the level of his [Wind Affinity], not getting blown away by the wind.

    "Didn''t he say that I can just stand inside the elemental area and I would passively gain experience?" Aurus frowned at the thought. "It looks like he was lying."

    As he wasining about what his friend said, Aurus realized something that he discarded a while ago. He was a stick within the world of Erudinia, not a yer ying in the world of Erudinia. It wasn''t a game anymore, but rather, a way of life.

    At this time, Aurus closed his eyes and started to breathe slowly and consistently, letting the wind flow all over his body. If skills were levelled through repeated usage, affinity of course would be levelled through being one with the element. But it doesn''t stop there.

    Affinity also needs the person toprehend the element. This was what he realized.

    Ding!

    After a few minutes, a notification sound appeared, forcing Aurus to open his eyes. Nheless, he looked at the notification with glee.

    ''[Wind Affinity] has leveled up.''

    "Alright! I just need toprehend a bit more and I''ll be able to evolve it!" Aurus shouted with glee as he was still being carried away. Although that was the case, he had a faint feeling that he was able to be one with the wind, allowing him to control the wind.

    Yet all of a sudden, a menacing intent was felt by Aurus from far away. Not only that, the menacing intent was getting closer and closer to him, as if it was out to get him.

    He then looked around his surroundings to see arge branch aiming something towards him.

    Aurus looked at this and couldn''t help but say...

    "Oh shit!"

    --------

    [1] Artifux (plural Artifixes) are the God equivalent of the Heavenly Bodies created by the Creator.. They can do multiple things, even bing a catalyst for weapons.

 Chapter 19 - Branch Vs Large Branch

    Without hesitation, therge branch shot out the thing it aimed towards Aurus. It was a walnut. From this alone, Aurus knew that he was up against a Walnut race of the higher grade.

    "Huuh...haah..." Aurus took a few deep breaths as he looked at the shot that was gradually inching towards him. Well to be more exact, it was travelling at a speed that''s fast for a normal branch, but not for Aurus. Aurus calmed himself down and regained hisposure as the remaining normal walnut on his body started topress and elongate into a weird shape. A few tenths of a secondter, the walnut transformed into a small trident that definitely did not look like a walnut at all.

    "This is gonna take out a lot of my current SP, but I have a high regeneration rate anyway." Aurus thought for a bit before weighing the pros and cons. The pros outweighed the current cons.

    "[Nut Trident Triad: Law]!"

    Swoosh!

    Of course, after fully realizing that he was living a life in the world of Erudinia, he didn''t use his skills for a single purpose anymore, allowing him to be flexible when ites to multiple situations. At the current moment, Aurus decided to test out his new offensive skill in blocking the nut shot by therge branch.

    Bang!

    Since the nut trident shot by Aurus was faster than the nut shot by therge branch thanks to the [Wind Affinity] skill, the nut shot by therge branch was easily shattered into pieces thanks to the nut trident''s homing function. Since the nut trident still had spare strength, it continued to head towards therge branch.

    "Intruder!" All of a sudden, therge branch started to speak.

    "Eh? It can speak? Is it something like the Sakura Tamer I fought against back then?" As far as Aurus knew, the Synchronization Rate is the gauge for the level of a stick''s soul. Therge branch was able to say a word like ''intruder'' easily, making Aurus guess that therge branch was at least A-grade.

    After a few more seconds, the nut trident shot by Aurus collided with therge branch''s body, inflicting some damage to therge branch, but not enough to scare it.

    Ding!

    ''Aurus has dealt 24 HP to [Branch Formosus ¡ª Energistus].''

    After looking at the notification screen, he ced it where it couldn''t block his field of vision. Afterwards, he looked at the HP bar on top of therge branch he attacked.

    "Holy heck. I only nicked off like 10% of its HP after dealing 24 HP damage?" Aurus said in disbelief. "I''m guessing it has a maximum HP of around 240 or something if that''s the case."

    "But first, I should get down on the ground. Being in midair would make me incredibly vulnerable."

    With a lot of effort, Aurus was able to get down on the ground thanks to his recently improved [Wind Affinity] skill. Nheless, the time it took for Aurus to get down was incredibly long, allowing therge branch to shoot a few nuts along Aurus'' way. This forced Aurus to waste some SP on destroying the nuts; it also damaged therge branch by a bit, bringing its HP down to 70%.

    "Haah, finally on the ground." Aurus couldn''t help but let out a sigh of relief after travelling in midair for a while. Although it would allow him toprehend the wind faster, he didn''t really like the feeling.

    Ding!

    "Hm?" Aurus'' interest was piqued after hearing a notification sound...only to sarcasticallyugh afterwards.

    ''[Revitalising Fruit Creation] has leveled up.''

    "I almost forgot. The level ups are still dyed." Aurus then looked at the damage screen he got a while ago, showing the name of the enemy he was currently fighting against.

    "A [Branch Formosus ¡ª Energistus]. Definitely a long name I wouldn''t bother remembering," Aurus said to himself. "Anyways, knowing my enemies is basically winning 99% of the battle or something like that so..."

    "System, what is a Branch Formosus? And what does Energistus mean?" Aurus noticed that the two of them were separated by an em dash, which got him thinking that perhaps the second part was a variant of the first part.

    Ding!

    Not long after, two notification screens exining the two parts appeared in front of Aurus. In the midst of all this, therge branch shot out three more nuts towards Aurus, making Aurus retaliate with a single [Nut Trident Triad: Law].

    "How much SP do I still have?" Aurus checked his SP bar by looking upwards. "Ah. 60% left? I guess that''s enough to check the two remaining forms of [Nut Trident Triad]."

    cing that matter in the back of his head, he then checked the information given by the system.

    ''A Branch Formosus is an evolved version of the Branch, one of the two paths a Branch can evolve to, other than the Sapling path. The Branch Formosus is the A-grade version of the Branch.''

    ''An Energistus is a variant of the species that specializes in manipting and channeling energy, allowing them to do things that are usually impossible to do. In fantasy terms, the Energistus are mages.''

    "Heh...my goal huh?" Aurus looked at the enemy in front of him in a new light. "Since I''m nning to be a mage, then I should kill a mage first, right?"

    All of a sudden, therge branch shouted out once more. "Puny branch...die!"

    Bang! Bang! Bang!

    Three nuts were shot towards Aurus. But instead of the three nuts being side by side, these three were shot in a triangr formation, which meant that Aurus could not destroy them all with a single nut trident.

    But Aurus couldn''t help butugh at therge branch. "Then again, its Synchronization Rate is at most 40% if my deduction is correct. It''s nowhere near my intelligence!"

    Of course, he didn''t destroy the three nuts but instead...

    He dodged them!

    Whoosh!

    "[Tempest Roll]!"

    Since he was already on the ground, why would he need to use up SP to stop the three nuts if he could just dodge it?

    "Next up, [Tempest Burst]!" Aurus shouted.

    Bang!

    As if arge explosion just urred within Aurus'' body, an iridescent aura instantly covered Aurus, letting him feel that he could do anything if he wanted to. But of course that feeling was just an illusion.

    Whoosh!

    Nheless, his speed that was already at 260 meters per hour was doubled to over 500 meters per hour, allowing him to close the dozen meter gap between them in just seconds!

    "Identify!"

    Since Aurus wanted to be sure, he checked the status of his enemy that was already damaged. He also wanted to find out which form of the [Nut Trident Triad] he would use.

    "You know what? I''ll just use the other formter."

    Ding!

    ________

    [Branch Formosus ¡ª Energistus (Special)] (Level 5)

    HP: 153/250

    ________

    "Hm. My guesses were correct. Thisrge branch had around that much HP," Aurus let out a light smile. "But to think that this enemy was an Elite? Heh. It''s gonna die here anyway."

    Within seconds, Aurus formed another nut trident that hovered over his body. After using 30 of his SP to increase the attack power of the nut trident, he then aimed it towards therge branch.

    "Take this! [Nut Trident Triad: Judgement]!"

    As he said this, therge branch tried to get away from the nut trident shot by Aurus. But s, it was all in vain.

    Thanks to therge amount of SP Aurus used to execute the Judgement form, it was bound to have some unavoidable properties. Combine that with his [Wind Affinity] skill and his activated [Tempest Burst], this nut trident held an attack power and speed unrivalled among the B-Grade Inanimates!

    Bang!

    In just one shot, therge branch was disintegrated into multiple small pieces of wood, leaving Aurus standing as he looked at its remains. It couldn''t even leave any words before it died.

    But Aurus didn''t mind it, he was instead eager to see the results of his fight.

    Ding!

    "Here ites...!" Aurus then looked at the notification screen, only to have a face filled with utter shock.

    ''Critical hit! Aurus has dealt 162 HP damage to [Branch Formosus ¡ª Energistus].''

    ''Thanks to Aurus for fighting an enemy surpassing his grade, the experience received will be doubled!''

    ''Experience +200''

    ''Aurus has leveled up!''

    ''Aurus has reached the MAX level!''

    ''Aurus has met the necessary requirements and is now ready to evolve!''

 Chapter 20 - Evolving Again (Long )

    "Damn, that''s a lot of experience from just killing a single A-grade enemy," Aurus couldn''t help but say in shock. Even though 200 might not seem like a lot for ate-game yer, it was a lot for Aurus who had to start over from the beginning and the most he has gotten before was 30.

    But of course, he didn''t waste his time on being ecstatic after getting that much experience. He was inside the Tempest Cliff, a ce where only X-Grade Inanimates are said to be safe...and anything lower than that is suicide.

    "Before I evolve, let''s see my current stats andpare it to how much I had when I was Level 1," Aurus decided to open up his status screen onest time before evolving. He didn''t know why, but it felt like he had to do it before evolving.

    "Open status screen."

    Ding!

    ________

    [Aurus] (Level 5/5)

    Experience: MAX

    Species: Wind Walnut Branch (Special)

    Existence Level: Inanimate

    Grade: B

    [HP]: 10/10

    [SP]: 150/150

    Stats:

    [Toughness]: 10

    [Thickness]: 10

    [Shell Hardness]: 10

    Synchronization Rate: 20%

    Unused Experience Points: 150

    Unused Genesis Points: 0

    ________

    Looking at his current status screen, he was able to see how much stronger he has gotten ever since he evolved. If he were to fight against a Level 1 version of his twig self, he would easily hundreds of them with a single offensive skill.

    "Since I''m going to evolve and [Revitalising Fruit Creation] leveled up, the amount of fruits I can make has been increased to 16. I don''t need a spare nut for evolving anyway so I''ll just make everything SP storage," Aurus said this as he changed all of his nuts into SP storage. From there, his maximum SP capacity was raised from 150 to 170.

    "Well... let''s not dy this any further. Evolve!"

    Ding!

    In an instant, Aurus was given five choices for his next evolution. But once he continued to look at the choices, only shock covered his nonexistent face.

    ________

    Please choose the species that Aurus will evolve into:

    [Walnut Branch Formosus ¡ª Wind Raneiros (Special)]

    [Walnut Branch Formosus ¡ª Wind Energistus (Special)]

    [Walnut Sapling ¡ª Wind Raneiros (Special)]

    [Walnut Sapling ¡ª Wind Energistus (Special)]

    [Wind Walnut Spiritas (Rare)]

    ________

    "A Rare ss?!" Aurus couldn''t believe it. He was only expecting to evolve to a Special ss at most since his current species is a Special ss as well. "How the heck...?"

    "Gah, this is frustrating to think about." Ever since Aurus was reborn into a stick, only surprises filled his life. Thanks to the godly passive skill Kurohana gave him, he was able to transition into a Special ss as a B-Grade Inanimate. And with the same passive skill he was able to beat an enemy of a higher grade and even gain ess to evolving as a Rare ss.

    In ISE, most yers have only heard of Special sses. Those sses alone have the ability to be great yers at the Transcendent and God level, but all Special sses know there are rarer sspared to them. They know those sses'' might and they don''t want to fight against them ever. The lowest tier of those sses are...Rare sses.

    Although Rare ss are just one grade above Special sses, the gap between them is insurmountable. If Special sses can do things normal sses can''t, then Rare sses can do things Special sses can''t.

    "I guess I know what I''m going to change into," Aurus couldn''t help but sarcasticallyugh. Who could pass up the chance of gaining a Rare ss?

    "Wind Energistus huh..." Since Aurus knew he was going to pick the final choice, he took his time on checking the other sses so he could know more about the enemies he could possibly fight against.

    "If I remember correctly, Energistus variants are mage variants of that species. Since the word Wind is ced before it, then a Special ss would be an elemental mage."

    "What is Raneiros though?" Aurus asked the system as he quickly scanned his surroundings if any enemies were nearby. Seeing that there were none, Aurus paid attention to what the system said.

    Ding!

    ''Raneiros are variants of a certain species that specialize in attacking enemies from a long range. Though they could fight against enemies unscathed and even control the battle, the cooldown time for their skills are exceptionally long. In fantasy terms, these variants are called rangers.''

    "Heh...rangers and mages huh." At this point, Aurus felt that everything made more sense. All of the sses he evolved into in his previous life didn''t really have any weird names like Energistus or Raneiros, but instead went straight to the point like Warrior or Guardian.

    "How many variants are there? And what are they called in fantasy terms?" Since it''s assured that Aurus would fight against enemies that had sses in the future, he had to prepare for every situation in case he had to fight a certain ss.

    Ding!

    ''There are 6mon variants as far as this system knows. These are Energistus, Raneiros, Ilucis, Azaril, Werei, and Belhazard.''

    ''The user already know the fantasy terms of Energistus and Raneiros, being mage and ranger respectively. As for Ilucis and Azaril, they''re called illusionists and assassins in fantasy terms. Werei and Belhazard is warrior and berserker in fantasy terms respectively.''

    "I see. I guess the variants are also based on the race the stick is from," Aurus deduced after a bit of thinking. To him, it might be the reason why there was no Walnut race warrior or assassin...something like that.

    "I almost forgot...this is where true sses start to pop up."

    Although it''s said that B-Grade Inanimates gain a ss, to be more specific, they''re picking a race they want to be a part of. From there, once they reach the max level and evolve, that''s where they truly gain their ss.

    "Well with that taken care of, let''s see what offers do these evolutions give. I''ll check the ranger variant of the Branch Formosus and the Sapling, the mage variant of the Sapling, and of course..."

    "Wind Walnut Spiritas."

    "Disable short evolution info. Identify the species I''ve just said."

    Ding!

    ''The option ''Short evolution info'' has been disabled.''

    Ding! Ding! Ding! Ding!

    ________

    [Walnut Branch Formosus ¡ª Wind Raneiros (Special)]

    Existence Level: Inanimate

    Grade: A

    Rather than staying rooted in one ce and epting the blessings of the world, the branch decides to forge its own path of power, bing a stronger form of itself, a Branch Formosus. It has also decided to be calm and collective in its decisions, even going as far as attacking from long range, sacrificing time for power and control. With the branch''s affinity for Wind, this is also imbued in its attacks, gaining an edge over normal sses.

    The Special ss active skill [Tempest Nut Arrow] is created.

    The Special ss active skill [Tempest Bind] is created.

    The Special ss passive skill [Wind Raneiros Seed] is created.

    The species'' active skill [Forging The Path] is created.

    The species'' active skill [Spirit Plundering] is created.

    The species'' passive skill [Spirit Manifestation] is created.

    ________

    "That''s a lot of skills for a single evolution," Aurus couldn''t help but say. For the normal evolutions from C-grade to B-grade, only around 2-3 skills were given. As for Aurus who obtained a Special ss as a B-grade evolution, he was given 4 skills. "Having a Special ss does have its benefits."

    "Since there are two paths for evolving as a species, then there are species-specific skills as well. I wonder what species-specific skills the Sapling path has."

    ________

    [Walnut Sapling ¡ª Wind Raneiros (Special)]

    Existence Level: Inanimate

    Grade: A

    epting the blessings of the world, the branch stays rooted to one ce, getting stronger passively as time passes. It doesn''t mean that the sapling couldn''t move though. It has decided to be calm and collected in its decisions, also sacrificing time for power and control. As it has gained an affinity for the Wind, all of its attacks are imbued with the element of Wind, gaining an edge over normal sses.

    The Special ss active skill [Tempest Nut Arrow] is created.

    The Special ss active skill [Tempest Bind] is created.

    The Special ss passive skill [Wind Raneiros Seed] is created.

    The species'' active skill [Root Binding] is created.

    The species'' active skill [World''s Intent] is created.

    The species'' active skill [Rooting Underground] is created.

    The species'' passive skill [Life Manifestation] is created.

    ________

    "Oh? The Sapling path offers 7 skills rather than 6? If I didn''t have a Rare ss as a choice, then I would surely choose the Sapling path," Aurus couldn''t help but say after seeing the things the Sapling path offered.

    "Well then, let''s check the Energistus variant."

    ________

    [Walnut Sapling ¡ª Wind Energistus (Special)]

    Existence Level: Inanimate

    Grade: A

    epting the blessings of the world, the branch stays rooted to one ce, getting stronger passively as time passes. It doesn''t mean that the sapling couldn''t move though. Having a lot of energy within its body, it has gained the ability of manipting this energy and using it to do unfathomable things. With its strong affinity with the Wind element, all of its attacks are imbued with the element of Wind, gaining an edge over normal sses.

    The Special ss active skill [Lowest Spell Core (Wind Variant)] is created.

    The Special ss active skill [Energy Sacrifice] is created.

    The Special ss passive skill [Wind Energy Core] is created.

    The Special ss passive skill [Wind Energistus Seed] is created.

    The species'' active skill [Root Binding] is created.

    The species'' active skill [World''s Intent] is created.

    The species'' active skill [Rooting Underground] is created.

    The species'' passive skill [Life Manifestation] is created.

    ________

    "Oh?" Aurus'' eyes lit up after seeing that a Spell Core skill was given to this ss if he evolved into it. "So that means if I evolved into an Energistus variant, I wouldn''t need to evolve my offensive skill into a Spell Core skill anymore. I could use it to surprise my enemies then."

    "There''s also something called an Energy Core, though I might find that out once I evolve into the Rare ss..."

    "Wind Walnut Spiritas!"

    ________

    [Wind Walnut Spiritas (Rare)]

    Existence Level: Inanimate

    Grade: A

    Not wanting to delve the path of the Branch Formosus, nor the Sapling, the branch has decided to shed its stick body and delve both paths, bing a Spiritas, a pseudo-sentient spirit. Spiritas cane in many shapes and sizes, even having many forms as well, but they''re mostly known for their great control over their energy, manipting it to do things that are impossible for a normal mage.

    Spells learned by a Spiritas are of the Spirit series, spells that can be controlled even after casted, as if they had a spirit of their own. Since the branch has great affinity with the Wind element, the Spiritas also gains this affinity as well, imbuing its attacks with the Wind element, setting itself from other Spiritas and other sses.

    The Rare ss active skill [Lowest Spirit Spell Core (Wind Variant)] is created.

    The Rare ss active skill [Spirit Energy Sacrifice] is created.

    The Rare ss active skill [Spirit Channeling] is created.

    The Rare ss passive skill [Spirit Energy Core (Wind Variant)] is created.

    The Rare ss passive skill [Spiritas Seed] is created.

    The Rare species'' active skill [Form Morph] is created.

    The Rare species'' active skill [Wrath of the Spiritas] is created.

    The Rare species'' active skill [Unyielding Spiritas] is created.

    The Rare species'' passive skill [Treader of Two Paths]

    The Rare species'' passive skill [Spirit and Life Vessel Manifestation] is created.

    ________

    Seeing that the Rare ss offers even more skills, Aurus finally chooses his evolution and confirms it without hesitation. Not long after, he falls unconscious just like how he fell unconscious after evolving to a B-Grade Inanimate.

    A few minutester, a notification sound left unheard by Aurus popped up.

    Ding!

    ''[Aurus ¡ª Wind Walnut Branch] has evolved into [Aurus ¡ª Wind Walnut Spiritas].''

 Chapter 21 - Aurus The Spiritas

    After Aurus fell unconscious in Tempest Cliff, multiple sticks of various grades noticed his vulnerable body and wanted to kill him for experience. Of course, being sticks of at least the A-grade, they had souls that allowed them to think andprehend abstract things, one being greed.

    It''s not a greed for material things like money since they were only sticks and money is somewhat abstract to them. Rather, it''s a greed for power, an intangible object that anyone can gain as long as they train hard enough. As for them, gaining power is equivalent to them leveling up and evolving into a higher being, perhaps even bing sentient.

    So seeing Aurus'' vulnerable body that has a lot of SP within it, almost all of the sticks surrounding Aurus couldn''t help but charge forward and attack him.

    But that was their mistake.

    All of a sudden, Aurus'' body that was doing nothing on the ground, burst into multiple pieces that dealt a lot of damage to the surrounding sticks. This explosion wasn''t an explosion that was on the macroscopic level where Aurus was turned into multiple splinters, but rather at the microscopic level. This meant that all of the sticks here were hit with Aurus'' cells that held immense energy thanks to therge amount of SP he had.

    All of the sticks who were hit by this noticed their durability rapidly declining, some having half of the durability, while some ending up in a critical state. Of course, being sticks that had souls, they knew when to stop. Since they could easily be killed by the sticks beside them, they activated their movement skills that was boosted by the power of the wind within the Tempest Cliff, and ran away, leaving Aurus alone for the time being.

    An hour has passed since Aurus started evolving. It was only at this moment that his body exploded. Well it would be wrong to say that his body exploded, but rather, it was going through a state of reformation.

    With his body''s cells being far apart from one another, each of these gradually transformed into a semi-intangible form, one that could change between being corporeal and incorporeal. This type of cell was the basic unit of life for a Spiritas, a semi-intangible cell that held Aurus'' energy and soul, the Anima.

    After a few more hours, all of the cells that make up Aurus'' body has turned into Anima. At this moment, the moon and stars were hanging up high in the pitch ck sky, although the Tempest Cliff was still dark. For some reason, the Anima that made up Aurus'' body glowed a faint green, showing his affinity with the Wind.

    Even as of now, no sticks dared to intrude on Aurus'' evolution. The idental show of might that Aurus did was enough to scare them away, allowing Aurus to evolve smoothly.

    All of the Anima that was scattered a while ago started to converge towards Aurus'' soul that was left as Aurus'' body exploded. The Anima then started to permeate through Aurus'' soul, forming a connection with his soul. Once the connection was sessfully formed, a burst of green light appeared around Aurus'' new body. At this point in time, he was not a branch of the Walnut race anymore, rather he had reformed his stick body into a better body. Although it may not be a human body, it was still better than being a stick.

    He was now a Spiritas of the Walnut race.

    But for some reason, after the Animabined with Aurus'' soul, the Anima rearranged itself into a branch-like shape. It was not known why this happened, but one thing was for sure.

    Aurus is now a Spiritas, a Spiritas that looked like a glowing green stick.

    ...

    XXXX Continent, Seraph Kingdom, an unknown tower.

    This tower was a special tower constructed by the Seraph Kingdom, not only for reconnaissance and show of might, but it was also a ce for those who had sses rted to magic delve in.

    That''s why for people who frequently enter the tower, it was called the Arcana Tower.

    Within the Arcana Tower, Dane currently had his eyes closed as a blue crystalline orb floated in front of him, with an image shing every so often within the orb.

    After telling Prince Vanadir the true name of the branch Dane found, Prince Vanadir ordered him to track the Wind Walnut Branch at all costs. Though Dane wanted to decline the offer, Prince Vanadir told him that 20% of the tower''s assets will go to him once he sessfully captures the branch.

    So he had no choice but to do it.

    "I searched all over the Deste Forest already and the branch isn''t there. I''ve also searched Corsa Town in case the stick flew there, but it''s not there as well," Dane couldn''t help but sigh as he opened his eyes, taking a nce at the map he ced on a nearby desk before looking back at the orb.

    Many people would think of Dane as a handsome man. He had ck hair that was neatlybed, and ck irises that exuded wisdom and intelligence once anyone looked at it. Combine that with his rimmed sses and his crimson red robe that shows his rank of authority within the Arcana Tower, it would be weird for any woman to not blush in front of him.

    As he was still focusing on the orb, a finger tapped on his shoulder, making him turn his head around to look at the person. After recognizing who it was, Dane gave a light smile. "Well if isn''t my student Erea. What seems to be the problem?"

    Erea was Dane''s only student as she was the only one who was able to meet his requirements. Of course, if you had a Rank 4 High Mage as your teacher, you''d soar high right? Erea was a girl around 15 years of age that had hair of a light green color. Her irises were colored blue like the deep ocean, while her lips were tinted light pink. Anyone looking at the girl would unnoticeably end up having a light smile in their face.

    Erea clutched on her clean gray robe and then looked at her teacher Dane. Her legs slightly trembled as she asked, "T-Teacher, I have achieved the maximum level of a Rank 2 Acolyte but I don''t know how to rank up to a Rank 3 Mage. Could you tell me how to rank up?"

    "That fast?" Dane put the orb he was looking at on the nearby desk before looking at Erea with shock. He took Erea as her student only two years ago. Most of the time, it would take 5 years for a student at Rank 1 Novice Acolyte to reach the maximum level of Rank 2 Acolyte as they had to increase their Intelligence stat and MP, not to mention their spell repertoire.

    "How high is your intelligence right now and how much MP can you hold at maximum? Tell me how much spells you know how to cast and their level as well," Dane replied as he knew that the requirements to rank up were different for every person.

    Erea pondered for a bit before replying, "Uh...my Intelligence stat is at 72, the maximum amount of MP I can hold is uh...110, and uh..."

    "I know about 12 spells, 11 of them are Level 0 Spells while the remaining one is a Lower Level 1 Spell."

    "Oh my god..." Dane couldn''t help but mutter. "This student in front of me is a true genius." All of a sudden, Dane got a sh of inspiration as he hurriedly infused his MP on the orb, showing an image of a stick in the center, surrounded by torrential winds.

    "I knew it! Since it was a stick of the Wind element, it woulde here eventually!" Seeing that her teacher was currently absorbed in something, Erea stood behind her teacher, waiting for him to answer.

    But after a while, Erea heard a weird sound from his teacher. Not long after, his teacher stood up and shouted in surprise.

    "Eh?" Dane couldn''t believe what he seeing through the orb. The branch transformed into a semi-intangible being that he thought was only seen in legends.

    "It''s a Spiritas!"

    ...

    The sun was up high in the sky, illuminating everything within the Tempest Cliff.

    At this moment...

    Aurus awakened.

 Chapter 22 - Skill Overhaul

    "Agh..." At the time Aurus woke up, the first thing he felt was that his soul hurt immensely. It was as if his soul was shredded into multiple pieces, but as Aurus took a closer look, that was indeed the case. All of the cells on his body were now infused with a part of his soul, allowing him to feel a sense of oneness with his body.

    If Aurus were topare his feeling of being one with his body back then, it would be likeparing someone who had just used the sword the first time to someone who had trained with the sword for many years. That was what he felt.

    Afterwards, he looked at his new body, the body of a Spiritas.

    "Eh? Why the heck do I still look like a branch?" Aurus could spot the differences between his previous body and his current body with just one nce. The first difference was the cells on his body. If the cells on his body back then were like cardboard boxes, then the cells on his body right now were like non-newtonian fluid. If Aurus wanted to, he could change his body into any shape he liked.

    But for some reason, the instincts built into his body seemed to agree that his normal form would be that of a stick, rather than that of a human. He had the body of a stick but the soul of a human, not the body and soul of a stick.

    After pondering it for a bit, he just sighed to himself. "Whatever, I can change into different shapes whenever I like so that''s always a plus."

    He also noticed that the walnuts he used to have in his previous evolution were now gone, making him look like a normal branch, except for the fact that his body was always glowing green.

    As he was wondering about the changes that took ce in his body and what kind of skills the Rare sses offer...the bombardment of notification sounds came.

    Ding! Ding! Ding! Ding! Ding! Ding!

    ''Your stats shall now be changed to conform to your new form.''

    ''[Toughness] has been changed to [Tenacity].''

    ''[Thickness] has been changed to [Vitality].''

    ''[Shell Hardness] has been changed to [Spirit].''

    Looking at this, Aurus easily understood why his stats were changed. "Since I''m not a branch anymore but instead another thing altogether, the names of my stats have been changed. I don''t know if that''s just for aesthetic or if it serves any purpose at all."

    Of course, the notifications didn''t stop there. After getting the notification screen about his stats being changed, he got another notification screen regarding...skill changes.

    ''As some of your skills have be obsolete due to your current form, the system has adjusted these skills to conform to your new form.''

    "Eh? The changes even go that far?" Aurus felt that these changes may have some significance to it.

    ''Your movement skill [Tempest Roll] has been changed to [Tempestuous Spiritas Glide].''

    ''Your offensive skill [Nut Trident Triad] has been changed to [Spirit Lance of Three Worlds].''

    ''Your passive skill [Purified SP Storage] has been changed to [Purified Spiritas SP Vessel].''

    ''Your passive skill [Revitalising Fruit Creation] has been changed to [Revitalising Anima Creation].''

    "Hm. By the looks of it, [Wind Affinity] and [Soul Perception I] hasn''t been affected by changes at all," Aurus said to himself. "Ah, [Tempest Burst] as well."

    Of course, he wouldn''t forget about his godly passive skill being unaffected as well, but that was probably a given since it was given to him by Kurohana, a goddess capable of wielding powers unimaginable by Aurus.

    He didn''t bother checking the details of his skills since for the most part it would remain unchanged, save for the vor text contained in each skill.

    "Now that I think about it...what is a Spiritas anyway?" Aurus tried to ept his current body but he still couldn''t wrap his head around it since it was on the extreme opposite of a branch. A branch was hard and stiff, while his body, which was said to be the body of a Spiritas ording to the system, could beparable to non-newtonian fluid or slime that can hold its own shape.

    Wanting to know the answers, Aurus asked.

    And the system answered.

    Ding!

    ''A Spiritas is a being that is said to only exist in an incorporeal form, yet it can create a corporeal form if need be. It absorbs energy from its surroundings to sustain its form. As for the user, the Spiritas formed was from the fusion of two different paths, the Branch Formosus path focusing on the Spirit, and the Sapling path, focusing on Life. With this fusion, the user attained a body of a Spiritas variant of its previous branch form, having a small part of sentience and spirit. Of course, being a Spiritas, it is able to manipte and wield energy to a great extent as its normal Spiritas counterpart.''

    After hearing the answer the system gave to him, Aurus'' eyes gleamed as he said, "So that''s how it was. Since I came from a branch, my Spiritas form is that of a branch. And wait..."

    "Did it just say that a Spiritas has some sentience and spirit within them? At this grade?" Aurus tried to deny it at first, but it seemed that that was the case. Since he could move his body more flexiblypared to when he was just a branch, and even think faster than before thanks to his evolution, it only meant one possibility.

    "A False Animate being!"

    A False Animate, in other words, an Inanimate showing the characteristics of an Animate being like using their brains to strategize. In this case, a False Animate would be equivalent to those Inanimates at the S-grade or X-grade, yet Aurus was able to obtain this form at the A-grade! How could Aurus not be excited?

    "If I evolve to the X-grade, I might obtain a Pseudo-Animate form, allowing me to speed my leveling up by manifolds!"

    Although a Pseudo-Animate and a False Animate sound simr, they were vastly different, with a Pseudo-Animate having a form that was more humanlike in shape, even allowing them to converse with Animates, albeit with limited vocabry.

    Nheless, Aurus had something to look forward to in the future. He noticed that there were notification screens to look at so he focused on seeing what features or possible skills were added thanks to him bing an A-grade.

    ''The Ally system has been enabled.''

    "Hm, the Ally system," Aurus said to himself. He almost forgot about the system since it had be useless to him, who used to y alone in ISE back then. "I wonder if I could grab some allies who would help me out in the long run."

    ''Thanks to the Ally system being enabled, the [Ally Appraisal] skill has been obtained, allowing the user to see the stats of their ally.''

    ''Seeing that the [Ally Appraisal] skill is simr to the effects the system''s identification holds, the two skills have fused together into a better skill, named the [Species Analysis] skill.''

    "A better identification skill?" Aurus was surprised to see this. "I''ve never seen one before. I wonder what benefit it brings."

    ''Thanks to the Ally system being enabled, the [Befriend] skill has been obtained, allowing the user to obtain allies by befriending them in the world of Erudinia rather than rely on the Ally''s gacha system.''

    Seeing that this one was the final notification screen, Aurus could finally let out a sigh of relief. All of a sudden, another notification screen popped up, in which Aurus read it...only to end up gasping in shock.

    Ding!

    ''1 OS Point has been obtained.''

 Chapter 23 - Regaining What Has Been Lost

    Ding!

    ''1 OS Point has been obtained.''

    "Eh?" Aurus couldn''t believe what he was looking at. He closed his nonexistent eyes and rubbed it with his nonexistent fingers, thinking that it was a dream. After a few seconds, he opened his eyes once more, only to see the notification screen still in front of him.

    Thinking that he was still hallucinating, he pinched his nonexistent skin which caused him some mild pain, yet didn''t let the notification screen go away.

    Seeing that it wouldn''t go away, Aurus couldn''t help but sigh. Not long after, he bursted out in joy.

    "WOOHOO! ANOTHER OS POINT!"

    Although he took evolving into a higher existence level as his main priority, he still wanted to obtain another OS Point since for some reason it locked his memories and even dyed his skills from leveling up at the right time. At the moment, he wasn''t even sure if his skills were at the correct level.

    "Anyways, now that I know that evolving to a higher existence level gives me an OS point, I can now rest easy," Aurus couldn''t help but feel unimaginable joy while in the hell named Tempest Cliff.

    "But wait a minute..." All of a sudden, a thought shed in Aurus'' mind since it seemed peculiar.

    "System, why wasn''t I given an OS point when I evolved to a B-grade Inanimate?"

    Ding!

    Of course, excluding skill level ups, the system would answer at the shortest instant possible.

    ''The user has not met the requirements to modify the system''s OS.''

    "Eh? What do you mean by that?" Aurus was confused. "Am Icking in level or something?"

    Ding!

    ''The user has not met the minimum requirement for opening the OS back then, which was the Synchronization Rate. Though this system is based in the user''s soul, the system can only undergo modification once the soul has a connection to the body.''

    "Hmm..." Aurus pondered for a bit before shaking his head. "Though it sounds like some nonsense to me, I guess there''s a profound meaning to it."

    "Bah, who the hell cares? I got my OS Point! Open OS!"

    Ding!

    _________

    [Existence Evolution OS]

    OS Points: 2

    ----

    Level Up Synchronization (0/10)

    Cost to upgrade: 1 OS Point

    ----

    Artificial Intelligence (0/1)

    Cost to upgrade: 1 OS Point

    ----

    Memory DLC (0/3)

    Cost to upgrade: 1 OS Point

    ________

    The Existence Evolution OS screen looked like it was untouched whenpared to before, butpared to before, Aurus now had 2 points to spend rather than 1. Now with Aurus knowing where the OS points came from, he could now rest easy with the points being scarce...well it was still scarce but he knew how to get them at least.

    Ever since he found out about the EEOS, the first thing he wanted to upgrade out of all the choices was the [Level Up Synchronization] option. He didn''t want to fight at full power against his enemy before ultimately knowing his power was actually sealed.

    So he did.

    "Upgrade [Level Up Synchronization]."

    Ding!

    Unlike skills and evolutions which had a confirmation screen before fully confirming an option, the OS section of the system only gave you the time before choosing the option as the confirmation.

    ''[Level Up Synchronization] has been upgraded to Level 1/10.''

    ''Dyed level ups have been removed.''

    Aurus couldn''t help but smile at the words that came from the system. Now, he could rest assured that he would be fighting at full power everytime.

    "Now that''s done, I only have one point left to use." After that was done, Aurus went back to the OS section of the system and looked at the options.

    [Memory DLC]. Though it didn''t sound like much and it didn''t affect Aurus'' current progress, it had intense importance to his progress in the future. He also noticed that at times when he tried remember something, although his memories feel like all have been retained, he always feels a haze obstructing his view from that memory.

    Aurus looked around his surroundings for a bit and checked for any sign of enemies, to which there was none even as of now. Seeing that there were still no enemies in his surroundings, Aurus thenmanded to the system after giving enough thought.

    "Upgrade [Memory DLC]."

    Since he was still an A-grade Inanimate, there was still room for improvement. He might have missed something along his way to the Tempest Cliff that would allow him to obtain skills unobtainable by sticks at his current stage. Nheless, it would be a beneficial change for him.

    Ding!

    ''[Memory DLC] has been upgraded to Level 1/3.''

    ''Part of the user''s memories have been unsealed.''

    ...

    Within the vast universe, Kurohana''s space.

    Ding! Ding! Ding!

    A melodious chime could be heard ringing from the orb Kurohana was staring at.

    Kurohana''s eyes widened as she looked at the thing that happened to the stick through the orb.

    "Eh? A wood spirit?" Kurohana couldn''t help but frown at the thought. She needed a piece of wood infused with a strong soul as the main ingredient for her Transcedent Deity weapon. But to think that this Aurus chose a path that didn''t suit her needs made her somewhat irritated. But then, she looked further into Aurus'' current form and then mumbled as a professional craftsman, "Ah, that''s not the case. He hasn''t turned into a wood spirit, he''s still a piece of wood, although it can change forms."

    "Hehe, if I used that as my catalyst, I wonder what properties it could show?" Letting her mind run wild, Kurohana smiled at the thought.

    All of a sudden...

    Ding! Ding! Ding!

    A melodious chime rang once more, forcing Kurohana to snap back to reality and look at the orb in front of her.

    "Heh...he has finally upgraded that option huh. I guess this will hasten the process of turning him into Archaic Soul Wood."

    "Since I tampered with his memories anyway."

    "Teehee~"

    ...

    A nuclear explosion, that was what Aurus felt when part of his memories were unlocked. In an instant, like the neurons in a brain connecting with one another as they send electrical impulses at lightning speed, the unsealed memories within Aurus'' soul quickly connected with the memories he previously had before upgrading.

    Special grinding spots, ces where he could get special skills, bosses which garnered some special items, all of that were unlocked within Aurus'' mind.

    Though at some point, it abruptly stopped since he had only unlocked one part of the [Memory DLC] option. Nheless, the amount of unsealed memories that Aurus obtained were enough for him to improve at breakneck speeds in his current stage.

    For all of them....were memories of his early-game stages.

 Chapter 24 - A Plan In Mind

    "Hah..." After over half an hour, Aurus finally assimted all of the unsealed memories he obtained and let out a sigh of relief afterwards. "To think that there has been mistakes in my ways."

    After reiming all of his old memories and then cross-referencing it to his current form, Aurus couldn''t help but feel disappointed. Of course, his current form was plenty strong but...

    "If I stayed at the B-grade for longer, I might''ve unlocked a Unique ss instead of a Rare one."

    Since ISE was a game that held infinite possibilities for stick evolution, that meant that one could stay at a certain grade and umte enough power to evolve to a higher grade with a ss of the Rare or even Unique level.

    "Well there''s no medicine for regret so I''ll just have to be the best Spiritas there is," Aurus said to himself as the n he formted before part of his memories were unsealed gradually changed to a better n.

    "First off, let''s check my current stats."

    But before he opened his status screen, he then remembered, "I forgot that I haven''t formed any fruits yet. Wait, it''s better to call them Animas at this point."

    Without dy, 16 Animas the size of walnuts hovered around Aurus'' body as they glowed a faint green color while the faint sound of wind could be heard surrounding them. They also had a mysterious connection to Aurus'' body, wherein Aurus will never find out.

    Ding!

    ''[Revitalising Anima Creation] has leveled up.''

    "Hoh." Aurus let out a smile. "I guess my investment wasn''t in vain." With the skill leveling up once more, he formed another green Anima.

    "Now with all of that done...Open Status Screen!"

    Ding!

    ________

    [Aurus] (Level 1/10)

    Experience: 0/10

    Species: Wind Walnut Spiritas (Rare)

    Existence Level: Inanimate

    Grade: A

    [HP]: 70/70

    [SP]: 90/90

    Stats:

    [Tenacity]: 15

    [Vitality]: 20

    [Spirit]: 25

    Synchronization Rate: 40%

    Unused Experience Points: 150

    Unused Genesis Points: 0

    ________

    Aurus looked at his current stats before lightly smiling. "As expected from a Rare ss, the stats are definitely higher than a Special or a Normal ss."

    "It seems that the stat distribution is leaning towards [Spirit]. Does it have something to do with me being a Spirit-as?" Laughing at his own pun, Aurus continued to look at the status screen before being awed by his HP amount.

    "70 HP...for an A-grade Inanimate, that''s already high. The highest HP I''ve ever seen from a newly advanced A-grade Inanimate was only around 40."

    Aurus pondered for a bit before a thought crossed his mind. "Might it be because of the ss Seed?"

    The ss Seed, the passive skill that differentiated B-grade Inanimates from A-grade Inanimates. If an offensive skill alone was enough to be a gap for C-grades and B-grades, then the ss Seed was the gap between B-grades and A-grades.

    ss Seeds usually boost HP and then other things ording to the yer''s ss, but sometimes, there were extremely special ss Seeds that allowed yers to rule over others of the same grade.

    "Enable ''Short Skill and Evolution Info''. Identify [Spiritas Seed]!" Aurus promptlymanded.

    Ding!

    ''The option ''Short Skill and Evolution Info'' has been enabled.''

    Ding!

    ________

    [Spiritas Seed] (Lv. 1)

    A ss Seed that grows with the user''s level, specifically tailored for the exemry energy maniption of the Spiritas, which could be considered as an elite mage ss.

    > The Spiritas'' HP is boosted by 50 HP (User''s Spirit x 2)

    > The cost of magic spells have been halved (further halved by the Spirit Energy Core (Wind Variant))

    > All skills and spells deal 10% more damage

    ________

    "Hah! As expected. It was the ss Seed!" Aurus looked at the details of the seed and couldn''t help butpare it to the ss Seed he used in his previous life as an A-grade Inanimate, a Werei Seed.

    "The Werei Seed only doubled the amount of HP the yer had while at max level it quadrupled it. But this seed though, if I reach the max level of being an A-grade Inanimate and this seed follows, who knows what kind of things I can do?"

    Of course, this ss Seed was the reason why the Branch Formosus Aurus fought against had extremely high HP whenpared to the Sakura Tamer Aurus also fought.

    As he continued to read the skill description of his ss Seed, another skill catched his eye.

    "[Spirit Energy Core (Wind Variant)]..." Aurus muttered. "Is that the reason why my SP has been reduced to 90?"

    Before he evolved, Aurus had an amount of SP that was over 150 at least. Now that he has evolved, he expected to retain the same amount of SP, but instead it was halved. Was it because of this skill?

    "Identify [Spirit Energy Core (Wind Variant)]."

    Ding!

    ________

    [Spirit Energy Core (Wind Variant)] (Lv. 1/3)

    Grade: C (Mortal)

    As a Spiritas that can wield energy like it was a sword, the purity and power of SP (Stick Points) iscking. Thus the Spiritas has decided to transform this SP into a more condensed and purified version of SP, naming it SP (Spirit Points). This SP is stored within the Spirit Energy Core located above the Spiritas'' SP Vessel. Although the amount of SP usable has been halved, its power has amplified the effects of skills. Imbued with the element of wind, all attacks have the Wind element attached to them.

    > All skills and spells that use SP now utilize SP, thus dealing 5% increased damage

    > All skills and spells that use SP now have the Wind element attributed to them

    ________

    Aurus couldn''t help but let out a sigh in wonder. "15% increased damage, if I had that back then when I fought that Branch Formosus, how much damage would I have dealt?"

    Noticing that he was still thinking of the possibilities of the ss while in a dangerous ce like this, Aurus snapped himself back to reality and then started to head towards a direction with his newly modified [Tempestuous Spiritas Glide].

    "[Tempestuous Spiritas Glide]! Damn that''s a mouthful."

    Whoosh!

    In an instant, his movement speed that was already at a rate of over 260 meters per hour came into effect and allowed Aurus to move at a fast speed...although still not fast whenpared to human standards.

    "Open map!"

    Ding!

    In an instant, a screen showing the entirety of Tempest Cliff appeared in front of Aurus'' field of vision. Looking at the whole area, he then ced a marker on a ce he was sure that he would survive in thanks to his newfound strength and memories.

    ''Would you like set a marker to the Tempest Cliff''s Tempest Ruin?'' The system asked.

    "Of course I do! With the help of my memories, this is nothing!" Aurus replied with brimming confidence. Since he has recovered all of his early-game memories, the Tempest Cliff that looked impossible to him back then now looked like a peaceful park. This was because his early-game memories didn''t just epass his memories of his God-tier ount, it also epassed the memories of his other ounts that yed different sses. Luckily, one of those ounts traversed to the Tempest Cliff as well.

    Ding!

    Within seconds, a blue path oveyed on the ground within Aurus'' field of vision and a blue triangle started to hover over Aurus'' body with the number 10,000 over it.

    Aurus looked at this and grinned. Although it may look like a lot at the moment, this would change when he entered the Tempest Ruin.

    "I came to this ce to enhance my [Wind Affinity] skill, but since that thing is also in this ce, I should grab that as well."

 Chapter 25 - Itching To Test

    Although 10,000 meters didn''t sound like much to a normal person who could traverse that distance in a matter of a few hours, to Aurus...

    It also wasn''t much. Sure he would have to take a lot more time to traverse that distance, but Aurus had a skill in mind that would lessen the time needed to traverse this distance. In other words, it''s a skill that increased his movement speed.

    As to how Aurus found it, it was due to him looking through the forums of the game when he was starting out another ount, wanting to reduce the time needed to traverse distances. If it wasn''t for his memories being unsealed, this skill would have been left behind.

    "Hmm...I wonder if they''re still in that ce," Aurus started to hypothesize to pass the time. "Then again, Kurohana brought me into this world so she might''ve changed a few things here and there."

    What Aurus was referring to was the two skills within the Tempest Ruin. That''s right, it wasn''t just one, but two skills! The skill that Aurus wanted to get was a passive skill named [Blessing of the Tempest]. Alongside that ruin, there was another skill beside that passive skill named [Stick Regeneration].

    That''s right, it was a healing skill!

    "[Blessing of the Tempest] would drastically decrease the time for me to head back to the Lesser Experience Haven and [Stick Regeneration] would help me recover HP while I fight that boss," Aurus thought about how these two skills would help out in his n.

    Of course, they didn''t sh at all and instead boosted his chances of achieving his end goal of beating the boss of the Lesser Experience Haven.

    After making sure that his ns were all achievable at his current state, he took a look at his stats again since there was still a long way before he reached the center.

    Ding!

    "Hmm..." Aurus looked at his status screen and noticed that he still had 150 unused experience points he could use. Aurus tried to recall where he got that experience and remembered that it came from killing the Branch Formosus before he evolved.

    Aurus didn''t hesitate to use it all up since it would allow him to deal more damage whenever he had to fight.

    "Use unused experience points," hemanded.

    Ding!

    ''Aurus has leveled up 3 times!''

    With the unused experience points being used up, Aurus was able to increase his level to Level 4, thus only needing 6 more levels to reach the max level instead of 9 if he had no unused experience points.

    Aurus looked at his status screen once more and saw that he gained 18 HP, which put his HP and SP at almost the same amount.

    Afterwards, he just looked at the surroundings for around 5 hours since there were no enemies around him as he traveled.

    Indeed. Aurus wanted to test out the Spiritas'' skills.

    ...

    XXXX Continent, Seraph Kingdom, Arcana Tower.

    "It''s a Spiritas!" Dane couldn''t believe what he was looking at. The being inside the orb showed a state of being fluid-like in consistency while maintaining a somewhat semi-corporeal appearance. Since Dane was a Rank 4 High Mage who had umted a lot of knowledge, he was able to recognize a Spiritas from the myths at first nce.

    "I shouldn''t miss this chance!" Dane''s expression was filled with excitement. Erea, Dane''s disciple, looked at her teacher''s face and couldn''t help but secretly let out a sigh of relief. If her teacher was happy, she might get additional benefits. Nheless, she still didn''t disturb her teacher in fear of breaking his happy mood.

    Dane instantly closed his eyes and ced one of his hands over the crystal orb he was looking at as a faint blue glow started to emanate from his hand. As his hand started to glow, he also started to chant as small beads of sweat started to drip from his forehead.

    "4th Circle. Aquis Supris. Holos Singulus. Aquis Holos Estul. Triholos Trecher."

    Within seconds of incantation, the faint blue glow surrounding Dane''s hand started to converge under his palm as four magic circles that ovepped one another started to form. As this was happening, multiple magic runes were inscribed on the circles, thus using up Dane''s MP. Even though a lot was used since it was Level 4 spell, it didn''t hinder him at all.

    After a minute of supplying the magic circles with MP, the four magic circles then condensed into one magic circle that was extremely small in size, allowing it to remain undetected.

    Dane then opened his eyes as multiple beads of sweat covered his face, yet this entuated his handsomeness rather than negate it. He looked at the magic circle floating on his hand and looked at the Spiritas within the orb. Not long after, he shot the magic circle through the windows of the floor he currently resided in.

    "Magic Tracking!"

    Swoosh!

    Within seconds, the magic circle started to expand to a size that wasrger than the floor Dane resided in beforepletely dissipating into thin air.

    Erea looked at her teacher''s incantation and couldn''t help but have cold sweat drip from her forehead. ording to what she read, the Magic Tracking skill was one of the hardest Level 4 magic spells to conjure, yet her teacher was able to do so?

    Erea couldn''t help but look at her teacher in a new light since this was her first time seeing her teacher cast a spell. Dane, who was finished with his business, then looked back at Erea as he ced the orb neatly on the nearby table.

    With his mood still being great, he grabbed a piece of parchment on the table and then raised it up in front of Erea''s face.

    "Well then," Dane said in a cheerful voice. "Since something good has happened, I''ll make an ideal rank up process for you, my student."

    "4th Circle. Holos Miselus Aprisalii. Aquis Status-Skehl Singulus. Biholos Hidens Aptidahr Sapiens. Biaquis Suppress Potensehl."

    Whoosh!

    "Greater Appraisal."

    ...

    Tempest Cliff.

    It has been 20 hours since Aurus started to head towards the Tempest Ruin found at the center of the Tempest Cliff.

    Along the way, he tried toprehend the wind that surrounded him, and actually seeded in doing so.

    Ding!

    ''[Wind Affinity] has leveled up.''

    ''[Wind Affinity] has reached the MAX level.''

    ''[Wind Affinity] has met the necessary requirements and is ready to evolve.''

    Of course, Aurus was stuck in a daze and it only took Aurus a few minutes to max out [Wind Affinity]. Nheless, he still moved.

    He also checked out the three new active skills that are rted to his ss, the Spiritas, a variant of the Mage ss that was proficient in controble spells.

    After these 20 hours, he was still itching to gain some experience in fighting against the branches of Tempest Cliff in his current state.

    Ding!

    ''[Tempestuous Spiritas Glide] has leveled up.''

    "Oh, it leveled up," Aurus was slightly surprised to see that his movement skill leveled up. As skills evolve to higher grades, the experience needed to level up growsrger andrger.

    "Then again, I have my solutions to these kinds of things," Aurus said to himself as a side n was already formed while he was traveling, it was rted to his skills.

    Rustle.

    "Eh?" Aurus looked around and saw a branch that was a few timesrger than his body. It had roots sprouting out of one end as it exuded a great sense of vitality.

    Aurus looked at this and couldn''t help but snigger. He stopped in his tracks and rotated his body to look at the branch.

    "Hehe. Although you''re already a Young Tree..."

    "Are you ready to be my stepping stone?"

 Chapter 26 - Arogancia

    "Are you ready to be my stepping stone?" Aurus said as he sniggered. As usual, he forgot that the branch he was facing was at S-grade Inanimate, an Inanimate that has a pretty solid soul.

    Hence he was shocked to hear wordse out of the Young Tree as it said, "Oh? A measly inferior stick dares to fight against me, Arogancia who is almost at the level necessary to evolve to greater heights?"

    "Eh...?" Aurus truly didn''t expect to see the enemy in front of him talk. After a while, he stared at the Young Tree with his [Soul Perception I] skill as he pped himself back and forth with his nonexistent hands.

    "Why do you always keep forgetting that your enemies have some sort of sentience? Do you want to look like a fool in front of them?" Aurus pped himself multiple times as he burned this statement in his mind.

    After a while, he stopped pping himself and looked at the Young Tree in front of him with a deeper gaze.

    "[Species Analysis]," hemanded.

    [Species Analysis], a skill forged from thebination of the system''s identification skill and the [Ally Appraisal] skill he got after unlocking the Ally system. This would be the first time he would see its prowess.

    Ding!

    And he would surely be shocked.

    ________

    [Arogancia (Young Tree)]

    Existence Level: Inanimate (S)

    Level: 18/20

    HP: 1050/1050

    SP: 300/300

    Stats:

    [Toughness]: 103

    [Thickness]: 128

    [Root Rigidity]: 110

    Skills:

    Uncheckable due to the [Species Analysis] skill''s low level.

    ________

    "..." Aurus was dumbfounded at the Young Tree''s status screen that was in front of his screen. Although he knew that S-grade Inanimates were incredibly superior when it came to stats thanks to a better ss Seed, it still shocked Aurus.

    He then closed the screen, exactly at the moment that the Young Tree named Arogancia started to talk once more.

    "Eh? You''re not saying anything? Are you that eager to offer your life to me? Then..."

    In the midst of Arogancia''s talk, it charged towards Aurus with its roots sticking out of the ground. It was travelling at a speed that was fast whenpared to other sticks, but that was onlypared to other sticks.

    "Submit!"

    Whoosh!

    At that moment, Aroganciamanded one of its roots to dart towards Aurus'' important part, the SP Vessel, which was also known as the SP Storage.

    If Aurus lost this, he wouldn''t be able to attack Arogancia at all!

    "Heh." Aurus looked at Arogancia''s attack and smiled as he used his movement skill to dodge the root. While Arogancia was still immersed in controlling its root, Aurus went closer to Arogancia as he prepared ance made out of Anima.

    In an instant, the Animance exuded an aura of intense sharpness as if it could through anything. Not long after, Aurus shot it out towards Arogancia''s unprotected trunk.

    "[Spirit Lance: Judgement]!"

    Bang!

    Since Aurus was already near to Arogancia''s trunk and all of his skills were imbued with the Wind element thanks to his new Spirit Energy Core, the time needed for the Animance to hit Arogancia was already near instant!

    Ding!

    ''You have dealt 178 HP damage to [Arogancia].''

    Aurus looked at this amount of damage and couldn''t help but let out a sigh of amazement. Even though it only removed around 1/10 of Arogancia''s HP, the amount of damage he dealt would already be able to deal with most A-grade Inanimates within 2 shots of this.

    "Gah!" Arogancia was caught in a daze after realizing that Aurus wasn''t struck by its root and it was attacked by the one it tried to attack.

    Of course, from its name alone, it had a high amount of pride...which meant that it thought that losing to A-grade was extremely shameful!

    Arogancia rotated its body to look at Aurus as it said, "How dare...how dare you tarnish my beautiful trunk!"

    Within seconds, dozens of tough yet thin roots started to envelop Aurus'' body, including the Animas created from the [Revitalising Anima Creation] skill.

    "Since you dared to defy me, I won''t dy my victory any further! [Life Siphoning]!"

    At that instant, the roots covering Aurus'' body started to glow an intense green. If one were to look closely, the green aura covering Aurus gradually weakened. The vibrance of Aurus'' cells was also decreasing.

    Ding! Ding! Ding!

    ''You have received 8 HP damage from [Arogancia].''

    ''You have received 8 HP damage from [Arogancia].''

    ''You have received 8 HP damage from [Arogancia].''

    Without Arogancia directly attacking him, he already lost a quarter of his HP. Although he was stuck in this situation, Aurus didn''t panic as he checked his SP bar.

    "I still have 75 SP left," Aurus mumbled to himself. "I guess it''s enough to use that skill."

    He then closed his eyes as all of the Anima on his body started to change into a state of fluidity, slowly dripping out of the gaps between Arogancia''s roots.

    "[Form Morph]!"

    ________

    [Form Morph] (Level 1/3)

    Grade: C (Mortal)

    Experience: 0/3

    A Spiritas can change into multiple forms thanks to the cells that build up its body, the Anima.

    Changeable forms: Liquid, Branch Formosus, Sapling

    SP Cost: 10 SP

    ________

    As Arogancia wasughing with glee at its own intelligence, it gradually felt something wet dripping on its roots. It was at the direction of where it was siphoning the life out of Aurus. At the moment where it turned its field of vision around, Aurus was no longer there.

    Arogancia looked at this with slight confusion before shouting loudly as it madlyughed, "It''s finally dead! Hahaha! That''s right, no one can defeat Arogancia!"

    As it continued tough, it suddenly heard a voiceing from behind its current field of vision.

    "Sure. But I''ll be beating you now."

    "[Spirit Lance: Sanction]!"

    In an instant, five Animances hovered over Aurus'' body as a notification screen popped up in front of his field of vision.

    Ding!

    ''[Spirit Lance of Three Worlds] has leveled up.''

    As the level up happened, the aura emitted by the fivences slightly grew stronger as they simultaneously collided with Arogancia''s trunk.

    Bang! Bang! Bang! Bang! Bang!

    Ding! Ding! Ding! Ding! Ding!

    As the fivences collided, five notification screens simultaneously appeared in front of Aurus'' field of vision. Nheless, he removed them and decided to look at Arogancia''s HP bar, which was already near 50% HP.

    Tons of dust was flung up into the air as thences and Arogancia''s trunk collided. It took a while for it to settle down, revealing Arogancia''s severely deformed trunk. Arogancia looked at Aurus and said out of shock, "How is this possible...it can''t be!"

    As it continued to look at Aurus, to it, Aurus was akin to a demon ready to kill it for good. Was its death bing a reality? Arogancia tried to move away from Aurus with its roots...yet almost half didn''t move ording to its thoughts.

    Aurus looked at this and smiled with a yful expression on his face.

    As he smiled, some of the floating Anima Aurus made that held SP converged on his body, turning into a sort of sphere that held a lot of SP. But within it was a crude magic circle, which only meant...

    "I should test it out as well."

    "Spell Core, form."

 Chapter 27 - Tables Have Turned

    Arogancia, a Young Tree that was currently fighting against Aurus. To be honest, Arogancia wasn''t really an arrogant branch. It was always fearful and cowardly. Ever since it was a small twig of the C-grade, it had a small inkling of a soul that allowed it to avoid strong enemies while gaining strength to turn these strong enemies into enemies it could beat.

    Along the way, that fearful personality gradually became filled with pride and confidence as it gained the ability to fight those at a higher level. But as its win streak continued, that pride and confidence was soon turned to arrogance.

    Yet at this moment, knowing that the branch in front of it had the ability to kill it at any time made it feel the emotions that the ones it killed felt. An intense emotion of rebellion and denial, it didn''t want to ept its current fate. It knew it was going to die, but it didn''t want to die without inflicting damage on the enemy.

    As Aurus was creating his Spirit spell core, Arogancia decided to deny its current fate and try to bend it to its advantages. With that decision, it started to burn off a resource which many A, S, and X-grades would never burn unless they were desparate.

    "Since I''m bound to die, why not try aiming for that chance of survival with the burning of this thing. I can umte more of it anyway." Arogancia didn''t notice it, but it grew fearless as it wanted to escape the reaper of death named Aurus.

    Within its body, a red me started to spread all over the insides of Arogancia and even extend outside. Arogancia didn''t feel any pain at all since its origin was a nt, but it did feel a surge of power that it could currently wield. A power insurmountable to the power it held before.

    Not long after, the red me around Arogancia intensified as it said a few words, filled with an unyielding will to survive.

    "[Call of Nature]."

    ...

    "Spell Core, form."

    In an instant, some of the floating Animas that held SP converged towards one part of Aurus'' body as a tendril made out of Anima also extended out of Aurus'' body. The two of them connected together as the SP with Aurus'' SP Vessel and the floating Anima gathered toward the connection. The converged Anima then transformed into a crystal-like core as powerful waves of SP could be tangibly felt.

    Aurus looked at this and nodded inwardly. "It definitely feels like the Spell Core I used back then in my Mage ount," Aurus said as he was assured that he could use it to the best of its abilities. "Although the difference is that it is imbued with the Wind element and it can be controlled, it''s still a Spell Core."

    Rather than dilly-dallying, Aurus started to arrange his thoughts as a spell was being casted through the Spell Core with the use of a crude magic circle within it that was formed out of SP.

    If humans had to chant an incantation before conjuring magic circles to form a spell, sticks only needed thoughts to conjure magic circles for spells, thus giving them an advantage over humans.

    As Aurus was feeling his SP being sapped away, he could also feel the terrifying aura that was being birthed within the core.

    "Truly befitting of the Spell Core. Although it is the Lowest grade, it still holds insurmountable power whenpared to skills."

    ________

    [Lowest Spirit Spell Core (Wind Variant)] (Level 1/3)

    Grade: C (Mortal)

    Experience: 0/3

    A Spiritas is a master of energy maniption, this ability is magnified thanks to Spell Cores. With a Spell Core and innate ability of Spiritas to wield spells like swords, spells that could be controlled are casted, giving it the apt name of the Spirit spells, spells akin to having a spirit. With the Spiritas'' affinity to the Wind element, all spells are imbued with the Wind element.

    > Spell repertoire increases as the Spell Core gains experience

    > Magic spells deal 1% more damage

    Spell Repertoire: [Spirit Wind Bolt]

    ________

    As the Spell Core''s aura finally reached a climax, Aurus casted the spell and shot it towards Arogancia as a green bolt of energy started to head towards Arogancia''s injured trunk.

    "[Spirit Wind Bolt]!"

    Whoosh!

    Imbued with the Wind element, the energy bolt darted towards Arogancia''s injured trunk in an instant...yet it suddenly disappeared without a trace.

    "Eh?" Aurus didn''t expect this situation at all. He thought that he used up all of the Young Tree''s trump cards, but it seemed that there was still one more he missed.

    Arogancia started to emit a terrifying aura that didn''t lose to the [Spirit Wind Bolt] Aurus sent as red mes enveloped its body. Aurus looked at this and easily understood what the Young Tree in front of him was doing.

    "It''s going to use up its umted Vitality points as a way to gain temporary power to fight against me."

    Vitality points, points that were needed in order for the Sapling path of branches to evolve to higher grades. As for those who followed the Branch Formosus path of branches, it was Spirit points (not to be confused with Aurus'' Spirit Points).

    Although both of them were pr opposites in terms of effect, there was something the two point types had inmon.

    They could be used to gain temporary power.

    "Grahhh!!!" Arogancia started to scream as it gained temporary control over its roots. The [Spirit Wind Bolt] dissipating in an instant was because Arogancia swiped it away with its roots covered in red mes.

    Once the current threat was removed, Arogancia focused its gaze towards Aurus, the one that made it realize that there were branches like him who could fight against branches of a higher level.

    Swoosh! Swoosh! Swoosh!

    Dozens of roots started to head towards Aurus at a speed that was beyond his limit. Naturally, he received quite a bit of damage.

    Ding! Ding!

    ''You received 16 HP damage from [Arogancia].''

    ''You received 16 HP damage from [Arogancia].''

    ''You received 16 HP damage from [Arogancia].''

    He tried to dodge all of the roots that came for him, but he wasn''t able to dodge all of them, leading to three roots inflicting a considerable amount of damage to him. With this, Aurus only had around 16 HP left.

    16/88 HP. To anyone who yed RPG games, having critically low HP would mean that the yer has to drink a healing potion as soon as possible. As for ISE, there was no healing potion at all, all yers relied on natural recovery. Some gained skills to boost this recovery while some found ways to dodge the attacks they received as they recovered health.

    Of course, Aurus fell into the former.

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    In an instant, the 5 Anima that was currently restoring SP, turned into Anima that recovered his HP at a rate that was iparable to before.

    As he changed the purposes of the Anima, Aurus also activated another skill.

    "[Tempest Burst]."

    Fwoosh!

    The weak green aura currently surrounding Aurus turned into a solid and intense neon green as the skill was activated. If one looked pretty closely, it was quite close to looking like green mes.

    Aurus didn''t panic at all as he dodged the next few dozen roots with his boosted movement speed. Arogancia saw this and shot out a few more dozen roots in a fit of rage, only to be dodged once more by Aurus.

    After three seconds or so of dodging, Aurus'' HP was halfway recovered thanks to the boosted HP recovery rate. He didn''t change back to recovering his SP as a skill came to mind.

    He looked at the raging Arogancia with a calm and serious gaze as he said...

    "[Spirit Energy Sacrifice]."

 Chapter 28 - Powers Of A Spiritas

    (Note: Vitality points and Spirit points have been changed to Life and Will points respectively to avoid confusion.)

    "[Spirit Energy Sacrifice]."

    Fwoosh!

    In an instant, the remaining SP that Aurus had was being sapped away as a silver me started to cover his body. From an outsider''s perspective, the bar that showed his remaining SP decreased to 0 in an instant and then not long after, silver mes covered Aurus'' body.

    Ding!

    Of course, Aurus didn''t notice what he has done.

    ''Your SP is being sapped in exchange for power!''

    "Shit!" Aurus couldn''t help but curse at the notification. "I activated the wrong skill!"

    "Gahhhh! [Spirit Channeling]!"

    Whoosh!

    If before, his SP was being drained to 0, at this moment his HP was being rapidly drained until Aurus had 1 HP left.

    But that didn''t happen.

    At times, there would be cases where Aurus'' HP would be close to 1, but it didn''t reach it. This was all thanks to the 5 Anima Aurus made that had a specialized purpose of either regenerating his HP or SP.

    Not long after, multiple notification screens appeared in front of Aurus'' vision.

    Ding! Ding! Ding!

    ''Your HP is being transformed into SP!"

    "Your SP is being sapped in exchange for power!"

    "Your HP is being transformed into SP!"

    "Your SP is being sapped in exchange for power!"

    "[Spirit Energy Sacrifice] has leveled up."

    "[Spirit Channeling] has leveled up."

    Although it has only been around 2 seconds since Aurus activated the two skills, they already amassed enough experience to level up, reducing amount of HP and SP being drained from his body. Then again, the both of them were only at the C-grade.

    Arogancia felt a small sense of danger after looking at Aurus but didn''t mind it as it remembered that it sacrificed all of its Life points in exchange for power that surpassed its limits.

    Not recognizing the possible consequences of this ignorance, Arogancia shot his roots once more towards Aurus as the tips of the roots started to glow a faint silver.

    "[Root Barrage: Boosted Nature]!"

    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!

    In the midst of Arogancia''s roots trying to hit Aurus, multiple blurry silhouettes of roots the color of silver also mixed in between the attacks of those roots, putting Aurus in a precarious situation.

    But who was Aurus? He was a God level existence within the game named Infinite Stick Evolution! Although he was reborn as a stick in the same world of the game, his memories that were recently unsealed gave Aurus the confidence to avoid Arogancia''s attack.

    "[Tempestuous Spiritas Glide]!"

    Whoosh!

    After activating the skill, what Aurus did was...

    Leave the skill''s area of effect!

    Why would Aurus bother dodging each and every root Arogancia threw at him if he could just leave the skill''s area of effect? He was a Spiritas with a smart soul, why would he think inside the box like the other sticks?

    "I can''t believe you dodged that!" Arogancia couldn''t believe it as this was the first time an enemypletely avoided its attacks.

    Aurus then couldn''t help but say in an awkward manner, "It''s not that I dodged it, I just can''t believe that you didn''t change the attack''s direction after I moved."

    "Heh..." Arogancia''s soul started to buffer after hearing Aurus'' reply before saying, "What did you say? Something useless? I''m undefeatable with this boosted power! Taste it!"

    Swoosh! Swoosh! Swoosh!

    Rather than attacking Aurus with quantity, Arogancia instead controlled its roots to converge and spiral as it formed ance-like shape. It then infused its SP into the roots, increasing its piercing power and speed as it headed towards Aurus'' direction.

    "Take this! [Unavoidable Root Lance]!"

    Whoosh!

    As expected, Aurus easily avoided it with the help of his doubled movement speed thanks to [Tempest Burst]. He also used the momentum of his dodge to get closer to Arogancia''s trunk that was still injured after going berserk.

    At this exact moment, only 2 seconds remained before the effects of [Tempest Burst] disappeared. It was also at this moment that...

    Ding! Ding! Ding!

    ''[Spirit Energy Sacrifice] and [Spirit Channeling] has leveled up.''

    ''[Spirit Energy Sacrifice] and [Spirit Channeling] has reached the MAX level.''

    ''[Spirit Energy Sacrifice] and [Spirit Channeling] has met the necessary requirements needed and is ready to evolve.''

    As Aurus saw these notifications simultaneously popping up, Aurus let out a small chuckle. This was what he was waiting for.

    "It is an honor to fight against you Arogancia," Aurus continued, "But you''ll have to die here."

    In an instant, a menacing aura could be felting from Aurus as one of the floating Anima quickly transformed into ance as it pierced into Arogancia''s trunk, giving Aurus some free time to do what he needed to do.

    Ding!

    ''Aurus has dealt damage worth 356 HP to [Arogancia].''

    "Wow, that''s a lot of damage actually," Aurus couldn''t help but say to himself as three-tenths of Arogancia''s was removed in an instant. "Then again, the stick''s defense stat is useless...for the most part."

    The defense stat. One of the three main stats for sticks other than attack and HP. Although this stat grew every time a stick leveled up and evolved, it never did anything useful. All of the yers also noticed this and then did a lot of experiments in order to find out why.

    After a while, it was then revealed that the defense stat only took effect towards shing attacks. Stabbing, piercing, and blunt attacks bypassed the defense stat, which was unfortunately the majority of the attacks of the sticks, thus most people ignored this stat until they reached the Animate level.

    Ding! Ding!

    ''The exchange of SP into power has reached its limit, boosting the user''s power by 30%!''

    ''The SP bar has beenpletely filled, thus the [Spirit Channeling] skill has been deactivated!''

    Being lost in his own world, Aurus was brought back to reality after hearing those two notifications. Aurus instantly remembered what he was going to do andmanded, "Evolve all the skills that can be evolved at this instant!"

    Ding! Ding! Ding!

    In that instant, three skills were evolved to a higher grade. Only 1.5 seconds remain before the effect of [Tempest Burst] disappears.

    ''[Spirit Energy Sacrifice] has been evolved to [Spirit Energy Augmentation].''

    ''[Spirit Channeling] has been evolved to [High Spirit Channeling].''

    ''[Wind Affinity] has been evolved to [High Wind Affinity].''

    Why did Aurusmand the system to evolve all of the evolvable skills without choosing the path of evolution? It was because these skills didn''t have any! All ss-rted skills only had one evolution path, the same goes with elemental affinity skills.

    After he evolved all of these skills, Aurus activated the newly evolved [Spirit Energy Augmentation] and [High Spirit Channeling] in order for him to boost his power to its highest possible peak.

    After a second of repeated exchange between HP and SP, a few notifications popped up in front of Aurus'' vision.

    ''The exchange of SP into power has reached its limits, boosting the user''s power by 50%!''

    ''The SP bar has beenpletely filled, thus the [High Spirit Channeling] skill has been deactivated!''

    ''[Spirit Energy Augmentation] and [High Spirit Channeling] has leveled up.''

    After closing all of these notifications, Aurus looked at Arogancia''s trunk that was close to being torn apart. After attacking its trunk once more, there was now a dy in its attacks, allowing Aurus to unleash an attack.

    In an instant, the Spell Core that was attached on Aurus'' body started to light up once more as a crude magic circle materialized within again. That''s right, Aurus didn''t destroy the Spell Core although the skill had the option to do so. It was because he would need it for situations like these.

    Only half a second remained before the effect of [Tempest Burst] would disappear.

    It took 0.3 seconds for the magic circle to finish conjuring the energy bolt that looked stronger than before. Seeing that time was short, he threw it without hesitation.

    Whoosh!

    "[Spirit Wind Bolt]!"

    Bang!

    Since he was already close to Arogancia''s trunk and the energy bolt hit the injured spot, it was not unexpected to see Arogancia''s body explode and scatter around a certain radius as multiple splinters of various shapes and sizes. It was a good thing there was no blood since it would definitely make someone gag at first nce.

    Aurus looked at the conclusion of their fight and noticed that Arogancia''s roots were still firmly stuck on the ground. Not long after, these roots started to decay as green and red blobs of energy headed towards Aurus'' body. Aurus didn''t reject them at all as he knew its purpose.

    He then looked one more time at the scattered remains of Arogancia before continuing onwards on his journey towards the Tempest Ruin.

    Ding!

    ''Aurus has dealt 529 HP damage to [Arogancia].''

    ''Experience +200''

    ''Congrattions! Aurus has leveled up.''

    ''Congrattions! Aurus has leveled up.''

    ''8 Life Points have been obtained from Arogancia''s remains.''

    ''3 Will Points have been obtained from Arogancia''s remains.''

    ''The Life and Will bar have been unlocked.''

    ''Skills rted to the Life and Will bar have been unlocked.''

 Chapter 29 - Future Path, Unknown Danger

    "Life and Will points..." Aurus mumbled to himself as he continued to roll towards the Tempest Ruin. The silver me covering his body a while ago had already dissipated since he wasn''t fighting anymore.

    To Aurus who had retrieved the memories of his early-game stages, he was far too familiar with Life and Will points. Life and Will points were the prerequisites needed in order to evolve to a higher grade, and eventually into a higher level of existence.

    Normally, it would be either one of the two, with Life points for those of the Sapling path, and Will points for those of the Branch Formosus path. Although both of them fulfill the same thing at evolution, it was also a peek at the ideologies of the two paths.

    The Sapling path was all about epting the blessings of the world and bing one with the world, thus allowing them to have exuberant vitality at the Animate level of existence.

    As for those of the Branch Formosus path, they have decided to carve their own path as they didn''t want to ept the blessings of the world. They had the belief that they could be someone great even without it, ending up having an unyielding will and a fierce spirit once they reach the Animate level of existence.

    "Sapling, Young Tree, Mature Tree, Treant," Aurus continued to mumble as he remembered the evolution paths for the two paths. "Branch Formosus, Branch Forminosus, Branch Forminosus Grandius, Sentient Branchus."

    After a while, he shook these thoughts off his head as he remembered he was a Spiritas. How could he follow the evolution path of those two paths if his species was abination of both paths?

    What he knew was that he should make his foundations strong right now before evolving. He had already wasted two chances before. In preparation for that, he checked the three skills he evolved a while ago.

    Ding!

    ________

    [Spirit Energy Augmentation] (Lv. 2/5)

    Grade: B (Mortal)

    As a Spiritas, they wield energy like a swordsman who has used the sword for multiple years. At times, the power of a Spiritas iscking, hence they sacrifice their SP in exchange for a percentage boost in their overall stats, allowing them to fight against multiple enemies at the same time. The conversion rate of SP to power improves every level up.

    Conversion rate: 1.75 SP -> 1% boost

    Maximum boost: 60% in all stats

    Cooldown: 3 hours

    ________

    ________

    [High Spirit Channeling] (Lv. 2/5)

    Grade: B (Mortal)

    As a Spiritas, they are the children of energy, easily manipting and utilizing energy. At times, they end up having a deficiency in SP, hence they sacrifice their HP for SP. The conversion rate of HP to SP improves at every level up.

    Conversion rate: 1.75 HP -> 1 SP

    Cooldown: 1.5 hours

    ________

    ________

    [High Wind Affinity] (Lv. 1/5)

    Grade: B (Mortal)

    Peering into the intrinsic qualities of the wind surrounding you, you have gained a deeperprehension of the wind, aprehension wherein the movements of wind can either work with you or fight against your enemy.

    > Damage and projectile speed of skills and spells have been increased by 5%

    > All skills and spells are imbued with the Wind element

    ________

    "Definitely some good skills that would help me deal damage andst longer," Aurus couldn''t help but smile as he looked at the two additional bars hovering above his body. The green and blue bars represented his HP and SP respectively while the two additional bars were colored yellow and red. Aurus instantly knew what they were, given the fact that their length was nowhere near the preceding two.

    "Open status screen," Aurusmanded.

    Ding!

    ________

    [Aurus] (Level 6/10)

    Experience: 0/170

    Species: Wind Walnut Spiritas (Rare)

    Existence Level: Inanimate

    Grade: A

    [HP]: 135/135

    [SP]: 90/90

    [Life]: 8/100

    [Will]: 3/100

    Stats:

    [Tenacity]: 20

    [Vitality]: 30

    [Spirit]: 35

    Synchronization Rate: 40%

    Unused Experience Points: 0

    Unused Genesis Points: 0

    ________

    While looking at his status screen, two new stats appeared, which Aurus was expecting since it was announced by the system a while ago after he fought against Arogancia.

    "Holy heck, I have higher HP now?" Aurus then looked at his current HP and SP and was shocked to see that his HP increased substantially by just increasing two levels. Aurus mulled over it for a bit before remembering the ss Seed he had.

    "Since my SP is nowckingpared to my HP, I should level up my Anima creation skill," Aurus said to himself as he continued to roll. Anima creation, which was previously known as fruit creation before he became a Spiritas, was the reason why Aurus had arge amount of SP.

    And since a Spiritas is supposed to haverge amounts of SP, he wanted it to stay that way. Hence...

    "Disperse!"

    Whoosh!

    All of the floating Anima, including the 5 specialized Anima dispersed in an instant as all of them came back to Aurus'' body. Not long after, he spoke once more.

    "Form!"

    Whoosh!

    Without any dy, the 16 Animas that held SP and the 5 Animas for HP/SP recovery formed once more as they hovered around Aurus'' body.

    "And now..."

    "Repeat!"

    ...

    The Tempest Cliff was renowned as a dangerous ce for A-grade Inanimates and below. If they were brave enough, they would only tread the outskirts and then leave. Hence, it was shocking to the group of sticks that detected an A-grade Inanimate getting closer and closer to the center of the Tempest Cliff.

    These group of sticks were located at a somewhat hidden ce inside the Tempest Cliff. This ce was cleaned up and carved into a neat hall...as if it was man-made. But...the only things inside were sticks.

    "How the heck did that branch fight against the S-grade branches?" Arge branch started to ask as all of them looked at an image in the center of the hall, as if it was arge television screen.

    To be honest, every branch within this hall was either a small tree, arge tree, arge branch, or an evenrger branch. In other words, this hall was only filled with S and X-grade Inanimates who were close to bing Animates.

    "To be honest, it baffles me as well since we''ve seen its attacks a while ago," A small tree replied as a thread of SP darted towards the image, making the image more vibrant than before. This tree was the one who conjured the image, its name was Loran, an S-grade Young Tree.

    "Didn''t you see how it attacked that Young Tree? It used magic spells! Magic! And that magic was of course at a level that is normally impossible for an A-grade Inanimate to wield! I think he''s a mutated species of Branch Formosus ¡ª Energistus," an extremelyrge branchmented on how the A-grade Inanimate was able to cast magic, since it was a mage as well. Thisrge branch was named Horell, an X-grade Branch Grandius Forminosus ¡ª High Energistus.

    The branches and trees continued to argue with one another on the feat the A-grade Inanimate did. All of a sudden, a looming energy covered the whole hall, making the whole hall silent as they looked at the being who exuded this energy.

    It was an extremelyrge branch, akin to Horell. But its body was covered in red carvings, as if it was a cursed branch. No one dared to blurt it out loud because they knew that these carvings served another purpose.

    This branch right here was the leader of all the branches and trees inside the hall. Its name?

    Herellia, an X-grade Branch Grandius Formosus ¡ª Blood Belhazard. Not only that, it had alreadypleted all the requirements needed to evolve to an Animate, but it was waiting for something.

    Herellia looked at the image in the center of the hall and examined the A-grade Inanimate intently. After a while, it opened its mouth as it shouted, "It''s not weird for that A-grade Inanimate to tread inside the Tempest Cliff without any fear. It is a Spiritas, a stronger beingpared to all of you in terms of evolution."

    Hearing these words, all of the branches and trees were furious, but they remembered that Herellia was the most knowledgeable when it came to these things so they shut up. After a while, Herellia spoke once more.

    "It seems that it is heading for the Tempest Ruin. Horell, Loran, I want you to follow that Spiritas and make it join our Tempest Branch Alliance."

    "The addition of a Spiritas into our alliance will allow us to fight against Animates without any problem."

 Chapter 30 - Repetition Pays Off

    Seven hours have passed since Aurus killed Arogancia and started rolling towards the Tempest Ruin as he grinded experience to level his skills up.

    During this somewhat long duration of time, Aurus easily finished grinding [Revitalising Anima Creation] to its max level, allowing it to evolve to S-grade if Aurus wished to do so. Aurus thought that [Revitalising Anima Creation] was the easiest skill to level up since the experience was easily given after just forming one Anima, but thanks to him repeatedly dispersing and forming all of his Anima, Aurus was able to fill the experience bars needed to level it up.

    At the moment, he now had 25 floating Animas that all held 15 SP (Stick Points) within and 10 specialized Animas that would boost his SP or HP recovery whenever he needed.

    It only took him around 30 minutes of the 7 hour timeframe to max this skill out, thus he decided to move to the other skills he had, first of which was the [Lowest Spirit Spell Core (Wind Variant)].

    Since it was C-grade and Aurus had a massive stockpile of SP (Spirit Points) thanks to maxing out his Anima creation skill, the skill was easily maxed out, with the [Spirit Energy Core (Wind Variant)] and the [Purified Spiritas SP Vessel] gaining levels as well since both gain experience whenever any skill or spell that consumed SP was used. In fact, the former skill was also C-grade hence it reached the max level easily as well.

    After maxing out his main method of attacking ording to his current species, he then changed his focus to maxing out the [Spirit Lance of Three Worlds], previously known as the [Nut Trident Triad]. Aurus knew the value of having three methods of attacking condensed into one skill and he hoped that the amount of methods of attacking would just grow bigger once he maxed it out and evolved.

    With the apaniment of hisrge amounts of SP (Spirit Points), the 10 specialized Animas that focused on recovering his SP, Aurus started wreaking havoc on the path he treaded, making sure to shoot out ance whenever the cooldown was finished. At first, he tried using the Sanction form of the Spirit Lance since it shot out multiplences every second, but he found out that it didn''t raise experience as fast as just shooting ance of the Judgement or Law form, so he shot thetter two forms instead after realizing.

    After he finished maxing the Spirit Lance out, he then checked the other skills he had that were still at the C-grade, which were [Wrath of the Spiritas], [Unyielding Spiritas], and [Form Morph].

    He knew that he would waste lots of time on grinding the first two since both had long cooldowns and was meant to be used as life-saving skills, while the remaining one was a technique that could be activated and used at any time as long as he had SP.

    And so he grinded that since he noticed that [Purified Spiritas SP Vessel] was nearing the max level.

    While grinding the skill, he would turn into liquid at times, or his body would turn brown as he slightly grew in size, or perhaps he would grow multiple roots that would affix him to where he was. Nheless, it was quite easy for him to grind it to its max level since it was only a C-grade skill.

    ...

    Aurus looked at the blue triangle above his body that had the number ''2910'' beside it, letting him know that there was only around 3 kilometers between him and the Tempest Ruin.

    "Open the skill screen," Aurusmanded. The system faithfully followed Aurus''mand and showed him the multiple skills he had at his arsenal as an A-grade Inanimate.

    Ding!

    ________

    Active ss Skills:

    [Lowest Spirit Spell Core (Wind Variant) Lv.MAX], [Spirit Energy Augmentation Lv. 2], [High Spirit Channeling Lv. 2]

    Passive ss Skills:

    [Spirit Energy Core (Wind Variant) Lv. MAX], [Spiritas Seed Lv. 6]

    Active Species Skills:

    [Tempestuous Spiritas Glide Lv. 3], [Spirit Lance of Three Worlds Lv. MAX], [Form Morph Lv. MAX], [Wrath of the Spiritas Lv. 1], [Unyielding Spiritas Lv. 1]

    Passive Species Skills:

    [Soul Perception I Lv. 1], [High Wind Affinity Lv. 1], [Purified Spiritas SP Vessel Lv. MAX], [Revitalising Anima Creation Lv. MAX], [Treader of Two Paths Lv. 1], [Spirit and Life Vessel Manifestation Lv. 1], [Blessing of the Reincarnation Goddess Lv.MAX]

    Active Life and Will Skills:

    [Blooming Vitality Lv. 1], [Indomitable Will Lv. 1], [Sentience Lv. 1]

    ________

    He counted that the current amount of skills he had and got to a total of 19 skills. Compared to normal A-grade Inanimates, he had around 7-9 more skills whenpared to them, allowing him to gain an edge over them.

    "Then again, most of them are passive skills and the Life and Will skills are only avable once I have enough Life and Will points," Aurus couldn''t help but sarcasticallyugh at the amount of skills he had.

    He stopped rolling and scanned his surroundings with the help of the [Spirit Detection (Wind Variant)] spell he obtained after maxing his Spell Core. Seeing that there were no enemies, Aurus took a deep breath beforemanding the system.

    "Evolve all of my evolvable skills."

    ...

    XXXX Continent, Seraph Kingdom, Arcana Tower.

    "Greater Appraisal!"

    Swoosh!

    Arge magic circle conjured above the ce where Erea was standing and made her visibly shudder. In an instant, she thought that she was going to be killed by her teacher but she instantly calmed down after hearing Dane say, "Rx and don''t resist, this is a Greater Appraisal spell. I can make a better way of ranking up if you don''t resist. Who knows we might find a special ss for you."

    Erea''s eyes glistened after hearing the phrase ''Special ss''. To every person living within the world of Erudinia, a Special ss was enough for them to be a distinguished person and be respected anywhere they went. If possible, Erea wanted a special ss as well. Hence, she calmed down and closed her eyes, waiting for the appraisal spell to finish.

    Weeeennnggg!

    A beam of light shot out of the magic circle and enveloped Erea within. From Erea''s perspective, it didn''t hurt at all as she just felt a weird sensation of every secret she had being revealed. She didn''t have any hidden secret or anything like that hence she was able to stay calm under the beam of light disappeared.

    Not long after the disappearance of the light beam, the magic circle flew towards the parchment Dane held up and filled the piece of parchment with the ancient runes of an ancient racemonly known by all mages.

    After seeing that the imprinting process on the parchment was over, Dane said to Erea who still had her eyes closed, "It''s over now, give me a few moments." He then ced his chair nearer to the table where the orb was ced and neatly ced the parchment on the table. As he read the runes written on the parchment, from top to bottom, Dane''s eyes were filled with surprise, then shock, then excitement.

    ________

    Erea (Rank 2 ¡ª Mage)

    Level: 20/20

    [HP]: 72/72

    [MP]: 110/110

    Stats:

    Strength - 20

    Vitality - 36

    Defense - 19

    Intelligence - 72

    Agility - 24

    Spells Learned:

    Level 0 Spells - 11

    Level 1 Spells - 1 (Lower)

    Skills:

    Passive - [Hasty Spellcasting Lv. 5/10], [Mana Efficiency Lv. 3/5], [Mana Maniption Lv. 2/5], [Spell Mastery Lv. 2/3], [Tetraelemental Affinity Lv.1/3], [Du??c?s?in?]

    ________

    With intense fervor, Dane stood up and held Erea''s hands, making Erea shocked since it was rare for her teacher to get closer to her.

    "W-W-What is it, Teacher?" Erea couldn''t help but ask.

    Dane''s eyes glimmered as he looked at Erea. After a while, he realized his current position and lightly coughed as he sat back down. He then replied, "To rank up to a Rank 3 ss, increase your MP limit to 150, your Intelligence to 100, Vitality to 50 so it can hold your MP, and also..."

    "Learn another Lower Level 1 Spell and try to cast the Lower Level 1 Spell you learned and then one you''ll learn at the same time. With that, I assure you your Rank 3 ss would be great," Dane couldn''t help but smile as he looked at Erea. Although thest passive skill she had was blurred, Dane was able to infer the passive skill she could possibly wield!

    Dualcasting!

    With her question answered, Erea memorized the requirements her teacher gave him and bowed respectfully before leaving. Coincidentally, an image of a weird looking branch appeared within Dane''s mind.

    He closed his eyes and tried to guesstimate the location of the weird looking branch. After a while, he opened his eyes as he grabbed a nearby map and made an X mark on one part of the Tempest Cliff with a quill dipped in ink.

    Dane lightly smiled as he mumbled to himself, "With the Spiritas as the main material of His Highness'' new weapon, would that possibly raise its rarity to Grand?"

    After crossing a spot on the map, Dane then grabbed the crystal he used to contact His Highness Prince Vanadir and instead contacted two other people, who fortunately picked up at the instant Dane called.

    "If it isn''t Dane, what do you need?" A boisterous voice could be heard from the other side of the crystal. Although Dane hated loud voices, he knew who he was talking to.

    Clearing his throat, Dane then said to the voice on the other side of the crystal.

    "Artan, I want you to call Mira and join her. Afterwards, head towards the Tempest Cliff and capture a weird looking branch named a Spiritas."

    "Once you capture it and give it to me, I''ll make sure to give you a lot of gold."

 Chapter 31 - End Of The Grind

    "Once you capture it and give it to me, I''ll make sure to give you a lot of gold."

    ...

    On the other side of the crystal, a muscr man who had multiple scars on his face couldn''t help butugh at the words spoke by Dane. Every movement done by this muscr man showed clumsiness and joy, but whenever he''s in battle, these movements exuded strength, fear, and a power to destroy everything. This man was Artan, a Rank 2 ¡ª Battle Warrior, a person who moves for money, and of course, Dane''s acquaintance.

    "How much gold we are talking about here? 200? 500? Since it''s just a stick, think of it as a discount from me!" Artan continued tough as he talked in a boisterous manner.

    On the other side, Dane thought about the words Prince Vanadir told him before searching for the Wind Walnut Branch that now evolved into a Spiritas of the Wind element.

    ...

    Around a week ago...

    "The Wind Walnut Branch," Dane replied.

    "The Wind Walnut Branch? Is it any different from the Wind Branch?" Prince Vanadir inquired because he wanted to add as much special effects to the sword he was going to craft as possible.

    Dane then said, "As I''ve said before Your Highness, the Wind Walnut Branch is a mana-infused Wind Branch, which means..."

    "Not only does it contain the Wind element that allows your future sword to swing faster, it also contains mana which could be used to affix runes on the sword so it could cast spells!"

    Vanadir''s eyes glistened as he listened to the words Dane said from the other side of the crystal. Thinking about it for a bit, he was shocked as he asked, "Wait...does that mean that the possible rarity of the sword with the Wind Walnut Branch as the catalyst would be Magic grade?!"

    "Not just Magic grade," Dane lightly chuckled. "There''s also a chance for it to be a Grand grade weapon."

    Normal, Magic, Grand. These are three most basic grades of weapons found within the world of Erudinia. Nheless, they still hold immense power that could easily kill sticks.

    "Grand grade..." Prince Vanadir was drooling at the thought of having a Grand grade weapon as a Rank 2 Junior Windwalker. Wanting to make sure that the branch was obtained, Vanadir then said to Dane, "Dane, I''ll give you ess to 40% of my current assets. Use it wisely so you could grab the Wind Walnut Branch and help me win the throne."

    Being a loyal servant of Prince Vanadir, Dane was going to make sure he would capture the Wind Walnut Branch as fast as possible and even add in special items which could help boost the weapon to Grand grade.

    "I shall follow yourmand, Your Highness!" With an excited expression, Dane replied and hastily ended the call.

    ...

    Dane, who was talking to Artan, was reminded of the assets His Highness gave control to him, which amounted to more or less 100,000 gold. This amount would let any person live a carefree life from birth to death. But Dane was already a sessful High Mage of the Arcana Tower, earning hundreds of gold every day. Hence he replied to Artan with the number, "5000."

    "5000?" Artan''s eyes widened on the other side of the crystal, not believing what Dane just said. A figure thatrge would be equal to the amounts he obtained after killing a Rank 2 or Rank 3 beast and extracting their important parts already! Thinking that the number Dane said was too big, he asked, "5000? Are you talking about 5000 silver?"

    1 gold was equivalent to 10 silver, so Artan was basically asking for 500 gold, a value he asked earlier.

    "Nope," Dane denied Artan''s question as he mentioned the number again. "5000. I''m paying you 5000 gold if you catch that weird branch."

    "5000...?!" Artan couldn''t believe what he was hearing. Capturing a branch for 5000 gold was like a godsend to him. Artan went back to his boisterous manner of talking and then said, "I got it. I''ll make sure to capture that branch for you."

    Dane smiled and said his thanks before ending the call, leaving Artan to dream about the amount of gold he could possibly from a simple mission like this. Dane then couldn''t help but mutter as he infused mana into the orb, "I wonder how long it''d take him to grab that branch."

    ...

    Ding!

    After Aurusmanded the system to evolve the max leveled skills he grinded along the way, two notification screens appeared in front of his field of vision, basically telling him that two skills that had a direct evolution path were easily evolved.

    ''[Lowest Spirit Spell Core (Wind Variant)] has been evolved to [Low Spirit Spell Core (Wind Variant)].''

    ''[Form Morph] has been evolved to [Greater Form Morph].''

    "I''ll check out their detailster," Aurus mumbled to himself as three more notification screens appeared in front of him. Now these three notifications all had one thing inmon.

    Choices.

    Ding! Ding! Ding!

    ________

    Please choose the skill you would like [Spirit Energy Core (Wind Variant)] to evolve into:

    [Efficient Spirit Energy Core (Wind Variant)]

    [Condensed Spirit Energy Core (Wind Variant)]

    [Flux Spirit Energy Core (Wind Variant)]

    ________

    "System, identify all of these possible skill evolutions with the most straight to the point information as possible," Aurusmanded as he had a feeling that the choices were simr to the SP Storage skill evolutions.

    Ding! Ding! Ding!

    ________

    [Wide Spirit Energy Core (Wind Variant)]

    Grade: B (Mortal)

    Gaining proficiency in the condensing of Stick Points into Spirit Points, the core needs less Stick Points to condense into Spirit Points, thus having arger amount of Spirit Points while having the same potency.

    > The amount of usable SP has been decreased by 1/4

    > All skills and spells that utilize SP now use SP, thus dealing 10% increased damage

    > All skills and spells that utilize SP are imbued with the Wind element

    ________

    ________

    [Condensed Spirit Energy Core (Wind Variant)]

    Grade: B (Mortal)

    Instead of using less Stick Points to make one Spirit Point, the core has gained a new method of condensing Stick Points into Spirit Points, wherein the amount of Spirit Points stay the same, yet their purity and potency has been increased.

    > The amount of usable SP stays the same

    > All skills and spells that utilize SP now use SP, thus dealing 15% increased damage

    > All skills and spells that utilize SP are imbued with the Wind element

    ________

    ________

    [Flux Spirit Energy Core (Wind Variant)]

    Grade: B (Mortal)

    Instead of focusing on expansion or potency, the core finds a way to hasten the recovery rate of Spirit Points instead of relying on recovery rate of Stick Points, thus allowing the core to replenish its Spirit Points faster.

    > The amount of usable SP stays the same

    > All skills and spells that utilize SP now use SP, thus dealing 10% increased damage

    > The recovery rate of Spirit Points has been increased from 0 to 1 SP per minute.

    > All skills and spells that utilize SP are imbued with the Wind element

    _________

    Since Aurus was following the path of the mages in ISE wherein the purer the energy, the better, Aurus didn''t hesitate to choose the [Condensed Spirit Energy Core (Wind Variant)].

    Ding!

    ''[Spirit Energy Core (Wind Variant)] has been evolved to [Condensed Spirit Energy Core (Wind Variant)].''

    "Okay. With that done, let''s move onto the first offensive skill that hasn''t disappointed ever since I got it."

    Ding!

    ________

    Please choose the skill that you would like [Spirit Lance of Three Worlds (Special)] to evolve into:

    [Supreme Spirit Lance of Three Worlds (Special)]

    [Spirit Trident of Four Directions (Special)]

    [Five Mncholy Spirit Spear (Special)]

    ________

    "Hmm...at first nce, I could already see the effects of the first choice, which is just boosting the power of my current skill so I''ll skip that. System, identify the two remaining choices."

    Ding! Ding!

    ________

    [Spirit Trident of Four Directions (Special)]

    Grade: S (Mortal)

    An offensive skill based on the four cardinal directions of the world: North, South, East, and West. Each of these directions have their own special effects, only known after evolving to this skill.

    SP Cost: 2 SP per second (Sanction form), 8 SP (Judgement form), 5 SP (Law form) -> 10 SP (North, South, East, and West direction)

    Cooldown: 15 seconds -> 25 seconds

    [Note: The skill boasts the four basic elements of the world: Fire, Earth, Water, and Air.]

    ________

    ________

    [Five Mncholy Spirit Spear (Special)]

    Grade: S (Mortal)

    An offensive skill based on the stages of mncholy throughout a person''s life, the skill''s five forms could be used consecutively, allowing each consecutive form to grow stronger in power or allow each form to stand alone, with each having their own special effects.

    Previous SP Cost: 2 SP per second (Sanction form), 8 SP (Judgement form), 5 SP (Law form)

    Current SP cost: 10 to 50 SP (Usage from first form to final form), 50 SP (Denial form), 5 SP per second (Anger form), 25 SP (Bargaining form), 25 SP (Depression form), Maximum amount of SP (eptance form)

    Cooldown: 15 seconds -> 15 seconds

    [Note: Please check the special effects of the individual forms afterwards after evolving to this skill]

    ________

    After reading through the two skill evolutions, Aurus easily made a decision as the skill allowed him to be more flexible than when he used the Spirit Lance. It also doesn''t increase the cooldown unlike the other one, which made Aurus choose this skill.

    Ding!

    ''[Spirit Lance of Three Worlds (Special)] has been evolved to [Five Mncholy Spirit Spear (Special)].''

    "And finally onto..." Aurus was eager to see the possible evolutions for thest skill but then he remembered the skill he max leveled after looking at the choices. "Oh. I don''t have to think hard on this one."

    Ding!

    ''[Revitalising Anima Creation] has been evolved to [High Rejuvenating Anima Creation].''

    Afterwards, after checking his skill screen one more time, Aurus started to roll once more towards the Tempest Ruin. Not only was he going to roll towards the Tempest Ruin, he was also keeping a look out for any possible punching ba¡ªbranches to test his skills out on.

    "Are there any branches willing to be my target~?"

 Chapter 32 - Carnage

    Continuing onward to head towards the Tempest Ruin, Aurus decided to check the Ally system he obtained not long after he evolved into an A-grade Inanimate.

    "Thanks to my early-game stage memories being unsealed, I can finally utilize this system to its highest potential," Aurus couldn''t help but mumble as he remembered the possibilities of the system.

    The Ally system was an extension of the Existence Evolution System in ISE, in a way that thebination of allies you had allowed you to boost your power. The possibilities were endless, but there was only one rule needed to follow.

    You can only have 4 allies at most.

    Indeed, the game didn''t care if you had allies at the Animate, Transcendent, or even God level while still being an Inanimate. To be honest, that just added more flexibility to the system than constraints.

    ording to what Aurus remembered, there was once a yer who focused on the path of an assassin, mastering stealth. He then obtained allies that allowed him to boost his attack power, garnering him the moniker of the Sure Kill Assassin in the early stages of the game.

    There was also one yer who was a mage that yearned to be a gatling gun of spells. She then sought out allies that helped her with SP recovery and SP storage, allowing her to fulfill just that.

    After reminiscing for a bit, Aurus thenmanded the system, "Open the ally gacha."

    Ding!

    In an instant, a colorful screen appeared in front of Aurus'' field of vision. This screen had two buttons that could be clicked, two buttons that were extremely familiar to gacha yers.

    ________

    Ally Gacha:

    [Normal Gacha ¡ª 500 SP for 1 pull]

    [Premium Gacha ¡ª 50 Life and Will points for 1 pull]

    ________

    "Ah, the dreaded normal and premium gacha setup," Aurus couldn''t help but sigh as he looked at the requirements for the gachas. The normal gacha needed a huge amount of SP that Aurus couldn''t even get after evolving his Anima creation to the S-grade.

    "Wait a second..." At that instant, Aurus felt that something was off. He then opened his skill screen and couldn''t help but click his tongue.

    "System, evolve [Purified Spiritas SP Vessel] into an S-grade skill that pursues purity," Aurusmanded after noticing that his main SP storage skill didn''t evolve. From this, Aurus had a hunch that only 5 skills could be evolved at one time and kept it in his mind.

    Ding!

    ''[Purified Spiritas SP Vessel] has been evolved to [Supreme Purity Spiritas SP Vessel].''

    Aurus then let out a sigh of relief before looking at the ally gacha screen one more time.

    "I can do the normal gacha once I evolve my Anima creation and SP storage skill to X-grade while the premium gacha..."

    A glint shed in Aurus'' nonexistent eyes. "It''s possible at my current grade."

    Without sparing any thought, he activated his [Tempest Burst] skill that onlysted 10 seconds and darted off towards the Tempest Ruin, hoping to find at least an A-grade to kill.

    ...

    Around 10 hourster, with the help of his [Spirit Detection (Wind Variant)] spell being used every few minutes or so, Aurus finally detected a nearby enemy he could use as a sacrifi¡ªtarget.

    Whoosh!

    Without hesitation, Aurus turned towards the direction of the enemy and rolled for over 50 meters before getting a closer look at the enemy he would be facing.

    The enemy was a branch rather than a young tree like Arogancia. Nheless, it was more bulky than the A-grade Branch Formosus Aurus fought before he evolved, and it exuded a terrifying aura that made it feel like a tiger hunting out for prey.

    Making sure to not get caught by the enemy, Aurus thenmanded, "[Species Analysis]."

    Ding!

    Not long after, a screen containing the information of the branch was shown in front of Aurus.

    ________

    [Exos (Branch Forminosus ¡ª Belhazard)]

    Existence Level: Inanimate (S)

    Level: 12/20

    HP: 750/750

    SP: 135/135

    Stats:

    [Toughness]: 95

    [Thickness]: 82

    [Density]: 130

    Skills:

    [Final Blow], [Relentless Bloodthirst], other skills are uncheckable due to [Species Analysis] skill being low leveled

    ________

    "Holy heck. At level 12, that''s some high attack power," Aurus couldn''t help but blurt out. As he continued to check, he noticed that some of the enemy''s skills were avable for him to see, unlike at Arogancia''s case where none could be seen.

    "Is it because Arogancia is already near the X-grade? Then again, I''m surprised that [Species Analysis] allows me to check the information of S-grade species. I should try it out an A-grade sometime."

    After being finished on bbering about the wonderful effects of [Species Analysis], Aurus gradually went closer and closer to the branch as he started to conjure a spell using his newly evolved Spell Core.

    The spell that was being conjured by the spell core this time was unlike the [Spirit Wind Bolt] as the magic circle formed within the Spell Core was more detailed than before, letting anyone know that it would pack more power than any magic spell Aurus shot before.

    As he was preparing this spell, a silver me started to envelop Aurus'' body, signalling that Aurus was exchanging his SP for power using the [Spirit Energy Augmentation] skill. With the help of his newly evolved Anima creation skill that basically tripled the amount of specialized Anima he could use, the amount of SP Aurus had at his disposal was basically his maximum.

    Ding!

    ''[Spirit Energy Augmentation] has leveled up.''

    ''The exchange of SP into power has reached its limit, boosting the user''s power by 70%.''

    With the silver me surrounding his body roaring at an all-time high, Aurus then shot the spell he conjured towards the branch as he shouted to gain the attention of the enemy.

    "[Spirit Wind Ball]!"

    Ding!

    ________

    [Spirit Wind Ball]

    One of the higher level 0 spells unlocked by evolving the Spell Core to the Low grade, it condenses the bolt shape of the [Spirit Wind Bolt] into a small ball, allowing it to have more power while maintaining its controbility.

    SP Cost: 50 SP

    Cooldown: 20 seconds

    ________

    "Ngh?" Hearing a voice all of the sudden, the branch named Exos turned around to the direction of the voice it heard, only to be hit by a ball of energy.

    Bang!

    "Grah!" Exos was gravely injured from the ball''s impact, clouding its rationality with its emotions as it was of course, a Belhazard, otherwise known in fantasy terms as a Berserker.

    Ding!

    ''Aurus has dealt 595 HP damage to [Exos].''

    "Hoh, that''s a lot of damage," Aurus couldn''t help but say, remembering that one specificmercial of tape. Nheless, he couldn''t stay for too long on remembering thatmercial as he was up a Belhazard, a Berserker. And Aurus definitely knew that a Belhazard was at its strongest...on its final legs.

    "You hit me? You die!" Exos, the branch that Aurus just attacked, sensed Aurus'' presence and instantly darted towards there thanks to a passive skill that boosted all of its stats whenever its HP decreased.

    "Take this!" In an instant, Exos shot a splinter towards Aurus, which Aurus tried to dodge, only to end up being grazed by it a little.

    Ding!

    ''You have received 43 HP damage from [Exos].''

    Aurus couldn''t help but suck in a bit of the air around him since if that splinter hit him head on, he would die. His stats were already boosted by 70% thanks to the [Spirit Energy Augmentation] skill but it was still nothingpared to a Belhazard''s passive skill?

    "As expected from an S-grade," Aurus couldn''t help but say as he widened the gap between them. Exos didn''t want that to happen so it chased Aurus, only to be hit by an energy bolt.

    Bang!

    Using the time he widened the gap between them, Aurus started to conjure the other offensive skill he had that wasn''t on cooldown, [Spirit Wind Bolt]. Thankfully, his enemy took the bait and the bolt hit the branch head on.

    Ding!

    ''Aurus has dealt 372 HP damage to [Exos].''

    "Yes! It''s finally dead!" Aurus couldn''t help but scream in joy as he remembered that Exos only had 750 HP. He had already dealt damage over that amount so Exos was bound to be dead, right?

    "Grrrrhhh..." On itsst legs thanks to one of the passive skills of a Belhazard, it was able to survive Aurus'' attack with 1 HP remaining. Without a choice, it shouted with anger, "[Relentless Bloodthirst]!"

    Woooonnnngggg....

    In an instant, the HP bar above its head that was almostpletely ck, was instantly filled back up with to full health. Not only that, the branch was also covered with a red aura that exuded killing intent and instilled fear into every being that came into contact with it.

    Aurus looked at this and couldn''t help but shudder as he almost forgot the invincibility passive Belhazards have. Without hesitation, he activated [Tempest Burst] once more as he wanted to truly widen the gap between them. But of course, Exos didn''t allow that.

    "Rgahhhh!!! [Final Blow]!" Exos then shot out a crimson colored splinter towards Aurus that was moving at a speed faster than before. Thanks to Aurus activating [Tempest Burst], with his quick reflexes, he was able to dodge it in the nick of time.

    Of course, Exos got angry at that, rolling towards Aurus at a speed iparable to its speed from before. Using this time where Exos was rolling, Aurus conjured a Spirit Spear from one of the floating Animas and imbued into it an intent filled with engulfment and well...total domination.

    This current Spirit Spear was the eptance form of the [Five Mncholy Spirit Spear] skill. It consumed all of the user''s SP in exchange for insurmountable levels of attack power. With Aurus'' maximum SP amount already exceeding 300 thanks to him evolving his Anima creation skill and SP storage skill, it was bound to deal a lot of damage.

    Bang!

    "[Spirit Spear: eptance]!"

    Like a shooting star, the Spirit Spear darted towards Exos who was still rolling towards Aurus and pierced through it like butter. Exos noticed it toote, as its body was already crumbling after the spear pierced through its body. It looked at Aurus like a mortal enemy and screamed out "I can''t die like this! Grahhh!!!" before it died. It was still noticeable that its rationality was still clouded by rage.

    As for Aurus, the green and red blobs of light that came with every kill was absorbed into his body before continuing to roll towards the Tempest Ruin as he activated his [Spirit Detection (Wind Variant)] spell every once in a while.

    Ding!

    ''Aurus has dealt 1,488 HP damage to [Exos].''

    ''Experience +150''

    ''2 Life Points have been obtained from Exos'' remains.''

    ''7 Will Points have been obtained from Exos'' remains.''

    ''[Treader of Two Paths] and [Life and Will Vessel Maniption] has leveled up.''

 Chapter 33 - Forced To Submit

    After fighting against Exos, Aurus decided to just hit his future enemies with the hardest hitting skill he had, which was the eptance form of the [Five Mncholy Spirit Spear]. If his enemies didn''t die under thebination of [Spirit Energy Augmentation] and the Spirit Spear''s eptance, Aurus would then use the second hardest hitting skill he had, the [Spirit Wind Ball].

    Using this tactic, he was able to kill a bunch of S-grade branches and trees without difficulty, obtaining their Life and Will points in the process. Of course, the experience gained wasn''t meager in amount since Aurus was killing beings that were one grade higher than him. After killing all of them, he gained 3 levels and was already close to maxing his current grade, being at Level 9.

    ...

    Only a few hundred meters remained between Aurus and the Tempest Ruin as he could make out the ce he was going to head to. The Tempest Ruin was an old building destroyed by the raging winds as the dust created from the rubble was scattered all throughout the ruin. Not only that, the rigidity of the walls were basically obsolete, only needing one push of a finger for it to fall over.

    Of course, Aurus didn''t head straight into the Tempest Ruin as he knew that some of his skills leveled up along the way. Since he was fighting, he muted the notification screen that popped up whenever his skills leveled up, only to let the feature be disabled. Not long after, a small bunch of notification screens appeared in front of Aurus'' field of vision.

    Ding! Ding! Ding! Ding!

    ''[Five Mncholy Spirit Spear] has leveled up.''

    ''[Low Spirit Spell Core (Wind Variant)] leveled up twice.''

    Of course, the first notification screens to pop up were the offensive skills leveling up. It would be unusual for them to not level up after upgrading the [Level Up Synchronization] feature on the system''s OS, right?

    ''[Supreme Purity Spiritas SP Vessel] has leveled up.''

    ''[Condensed Spirit Energy Core (Wind Variant)] has leveled up twice.''

    After the offensive skills were the skills that had something to do with SP. All of his skills used SP so it would be unusual for them to level up.

    ''[High Rejuvenating Fruit Creation] has leveled up five times.''

    Aurus looked at this and couldn''t help but lightly chuckle. "I almost forgot about this one. I wonder how much SP I can hold now?"

    The reason why [High Rejuvenating Fruit Creation] was able to level up five times was due to the fact that Aurus felt that the attack power of the eptance form wasn''t high. Since the attack power of the form was proportional to the amount of SP he had, he decided to grind some levels on his Anima creation skill since that skill gave him the highest boost in SP amount.

    Opening the details of the skill, he muttered, "After getting the Anima creation skill to Level 6, the maximum amount of Animas I can make has been boosted to 35 and the amount of SP each Anima can hold has been boosted to 22. Sweet."

    Of course, the notification screens weren''t over as there were a few more. These notification screens were expected by Aurus as they had something to do with...

    Evolving.

    ''[Spirit Energy Augmentation], [Treader of Two Paths], and [Life and Will Vessel Maniption] have all reached the MAX level. All of these skills have met the necessary requirements and are ready to evolve.''

    Taking a bit of his time to look at the triangle hovering his body that showed the distance between him and the ce he set a marker to, he noticed that there were only around 200 meters left. Since that was the case, Aurusmanded, "Evolve all of the evolvable skills."

    Well, even if he evolved them all one by one, nothing would happen since he was sure all of these skills had a direct skill evolution path unlike the other skills he had.

    Ding! Ding! Ding!

    ''[Spirit Energy Augmentation] has been evolved to [Spirit Energy Ascension].''

    ''[Treader of Two Paths] has been evolved to [Inheritor of Two Ideologies].''

    ''[Life and Will Vessel Maniption] has been evolved to [High Vessel of Sentience].''

    After removing those notification screens, he then formed 5 more floating Animas as he had to be prepared at all times, expanding his maximum SP by a small margin. He then took a nce at the floating triangle and saw that there was only 150 meters left. He then opened the details of the three skills while simultaneously casting [Spirit Detection (Wind Variant)] around his surroundings every once in a while.

    ________

    [Spirit Energy Ascension] (Level 1/10)

    Grade: A (Mortal)

    The exchange of SP into power has reached its limits yet the Spiritas still needs more power. In the end, the Spiritas found a way to exchange more SP into power by condensing it and releasing it at the crucial moment, allowing the tides to turn around at battles.

    > Conversion rate: 1 SP -> 1% boost in all stats

    > Current limit: 100% boost in all stats

    > [Spirit Ascension] skill can be used once limit has been reached, increasing the limit by 50% for 2 minutes (Has a cooldown of 1 hour)

    ________

    ________

    [Inheritor of Two Ideologies] (Level 1/5)

    Grade: B (Mortal)

    As a Spiritas, you tread the two paths of Life and Will. With this, you gain knowledge of both paths and know how to use them to your advantage, thus granting you more power.

    > For every 10% of the Life and Will bar being filled, user gets a 2% boost in stats, maxing out at 20% at full bar

    ________

    ________

    [High Vessel of Sentience] (Level 1/5)

    Grade: B (Mortal)

    As a Spiritas, you tread the two paths of Life and Will, thus gaining knowledge on how to use both paths efficiently. During this process, you obtain a feeling that the two paths arecking in their peak, thus deriving an expansion to their rumored peak.

    > The maximum amount of Life and Will points that could be stored has been raised to 110

    ________

    Just at the nick of time, Aurus finished looking at the skill details and was able to focus at the path in front of him with the gap between him and the Tempest Ruin being around 50 meters. Aurus couldn''t help but let out a sigh of relief as he tried to remember the information that''s needed for him to obtain the [Blessing of the Tempest] and [Stick Regeneration] skill.

    At this moment, when only 10 meters separated Aurus from the Tempest Ruin, arge branch and a tree barred Aurus'' entry to the Tempest Ruin as a gust of wind blew towards Aurus'' direction.

    Aurus, of course, noticed the two entities standing in front of him as he dodged the gust of wind beforeing back to his previous position, which was in front of the two entities.

    Not knowing who they were, Aurus asked the question, "Who are you?"

    ...

    A few minutes prior to Aurus'' current situation, a branch and a tree were hastily travelling towards the Tempest Ruin as they slightly hovered about the ground. The branch and the tree were none other than Horell and Loran respectively. They were tasked by Herellia to ask the Spiritas they saw to join the Tempest Branch Alliance.

    As they were still heading to their destination, Loran, the tree, asked Horell, "Why do you think Herellia wants that Spiritas thingy to join the alliance? Does he want the guy for his weird magic? If so, we already have weird magic since you''re here Horell."

    Being entities of the S-grade and X-grade, they were able to ssify themselves through the genders of male and female, which was a sign of bing sentient.

    Horell, the one Loran just mentioned for having weird magic, couldn''t help but blurt, "Weird magic? Just because you don''t understand Higher Level 1 Magic doesn''t mean it''s weird! If it was really weird, then why would I cast [Flight] on both of us if it was a Higher Level 1 magic spell?" The way Horell spoke was calm and elegant, yet had hints of sadness between them.

    Loran sensed Horell''s sad expression and sent one of its roots to pat Horell on its body. "You know what? I''m sorry. I shouldn''t have said that. I''ll make it up to you by having fun with meter." From this statement alone, one could infer that Loran was female and Horell was male. Horell, not losing sight of the task Herellia gave them, then said, "I would love to but let''s focus on the matter at hand. We must make sure that this Spiritas thing should join our side no matter what it takes."

    Of course, Loran agreed to Horell''s statement. There was a time where a branch of the alliance didn''t fulfill Herellia''s mission, that branch wasn''t heard of afterwards, with the rumors of it being absorbed by Herellia sprouting within the alliance.

    In the nick of time, Horell and Lorannded 10 meters before the Tempest Ruin just as Aurus was almost at the Tempest Ruin. Since Aurus wasn''t paying attention to his surroundings while checking his system, he wasn''t able to perceive Horell and Loran''snding, assuming that they were already there by the time they met.

    Horell looked at Aurus before looking at Loran, who nodded as a signal. Afterwards, Horell conjured a small magic circle that packed a punch as it sent a gust of wind to Aurus.

    "[High Breeze]!" Horell chanted inwardly.

    Contrary to their expectations, Aurus was able to dodge the skill and went back to his previous position as he looked at the two and asked, "Who are you?"

    At this moment, Loran stepped forward and instantly exuded an aura that inspired fear into anyone and looked at Aurus, who showed slight fear towards Loran. Loran then said in a mighty tone...

    "You don''t have to know who we are."

    "For we are here to be your masters."

    "Join the Tempest Branch Alliance or die."

 Chapter 34 - Declining With Style

    "Join the Tempest Branch Alliance or die," Loran said to Aurus as an aura that instilled fear emanated from her tree body.

    Aurus felt that the tree in front of him was incredibly strong. Not only that, the branch was also strong, considering the fact that it was able to shoot out a gust of wind towards him in a matter of an instant.

    Staying silent for a bit, hemanded the system to identify the both using [Species Analysis], only to be shocked by their stats, levels, and HP and SP amount.

    Ding!

    ________

    [Loran (Young Tree ¡ª Energistus Sub-Fearus)]

    Existence Level: Inanimate (S)

    Level: 19/20

    HP: 3500/3500

    SP: 1250/1250

    Stats:

    [Toughness]: 276

    [Thickness]: 375

    [Root Rigidity]: 523

    Skills:

    Uncheckable due to the skill [Species Analysis] being low level

    ________

    ________

    [Horell (Branch Grandius Forminosus ¡ª High Energistus)

    Existence Level: Inanimate (X)

    Level: 32/40

    HP: 25500/25500

    SP: 7800/7800

    Stats:

    [Toughness]: 2213

    [Thickness]: 2435

    [Spirit Density]: 3263

    Skills:

    [Middle-High Spell Core], other skills are uncheckable due to the skill [Species Analysis] being low level

    ________

    "..." Aurus didn''t know what to say. The strongest enemy he has fought against was Exos who had an attack stat of 130! That alone was enough to remove a quarter of his HP even with a grazing attack. Now with the attack stats of the two beings in front of him being over 500 and over 3000 respectively, it wouldn''t be weird for him to die under a single touch of their bodies!

    "The Tempest Branch Alliance..." As Aurus was thinking of the possibilities on how they were able to gain that much stats when inparison, the enemies he fought at their grade had less stats, this name came in all of a sudden.

    Alliances within ISE allowed yers to have boosted stats that could easily crush yers who decided to y solo. Most of the time, these solo yers tend to avoid these yers who have joined alliances not only because of that, but they also had a plethora of skills to their disposal.

    Of course, who wouldn''t want to enter a ce that allowed them to reign over yers with their higher stats? That way of thinking resulted in almost every alliance being filled up to its limit with yers.

    "Who knew that Kurohana would also add this function," Aurus couldn''t help but mumble to himself. Composing his thoughts, he looked at the two beings and respectfully said, "No."

    "No?" This time, Horell was the one who spoke. With his calm and collected voice, it brought chills to Aurus who was only A-grade, two grades below him. "May I asky why you declined our offer?"

    "First off, it''s because you two are forcing to enter an alliance that I don''t even have an idea about plus the way you look at me is just¡ª" Aurus exined the reasons why he declined the offer in a rational manner that had bits of his emotions added into it, only for a root that travelled at an insanely fast speed to nearly hit him, a sonic boom forming not long after.

    Aurus froze in ce and looked at the origin of the root. It came from Loran, who looked at Aurus as if he should thank the both of them for the chance of entering a prestigious alliance. She then spat out coldly, "You know what? Since he dares to be cocky, let''s just kill him."

    Without hesitation, Loran''s leaves started to glow a faint green as a tornado manifested above her body. Horell looked at this and looked back at Aurus as he sighed. He then said to Aurus, "I don''t know what you did to her, but I can''t control it. Think of it as a test of sorts."

    Of course, Horell didn''t bother to join the fight as he knew that he could easily Aurus with just a single Lower Level 0 Spell. Instead, he casted a barrier around the two as he made sure to check on Aurus every once in a while, because he knew Herellia''s true intentions.

    After a few seconds, the tornado hovering above Loran''s body grew to a size that could dealrge amounts of damage along its path. Once it reached a certain point, Loran shot the tornado towards Aurus as she shouted, "[Tornado of Fear]!"

    As she shot the tornado out, cackling sounds could be hearding from the tornado all of a sudden. Once Aurus heard this sound, a few notification screens appeared in front of his field of vision.

    Ding!

    ''You have been inflicted with the Fear debuff for 2 seconds.''

    ''System estimates that getting hit by this skill will result in the user dying!''

    "Well no shit!" Aurus couldn''t help but curse as the tornado gradually got closer to his body at a fast speed. Since the gap between them was only around 10 meters, it was a given that this tornado would hit him before the Fear debuff was dispelled.

    The Fear debuff made enemies freeze up in ce. In other words, it was a debuff that allowed the person attacking the enemy to bombard multiple amounts of skills within the specified amount of time.

    "What should I do..." Aurus was trying to think of ways of dodging the tornado but he realized that he had no skill that allowed him to remove debuffs on his body. With that, he couldn''t help but sigh as he epted his fate of dying under the hit of the tornado.

    Only for a spark to sh in his mind as he remembered a skill that might not remove the debuffs on his body, but it would allow him to solve the case of dying under the tornado.

    "[Unyielding Spiritas]!"

    Whoosh!

    At the exact instant the tornado collided with Aurus'' body, Aurus'' body was instantly covered with a silver light as the tornado waspletely absorbed by the silver light...as if it wasn''t there in the ce.

    Ding!

    ''You have received 1 HP damage from [Loran].''

    "What?!" Loran, who knew the terrifying prowess that tornado had, was shocked to see that it didn''t even deal any damage to Aurus at all. She wasted around 500 SP in order to form the tornado, but it ended up dissipating into thin air? What kind of joke is this?

    Horell, on the other hand, was surprised to see the skill that Aurus activated. At that point, Horell understood why Herellia wanted the Spiritas in front of him to join their alliance. Since he was also an X-grade being that had an intelligence nearlyparable to a human, he had a hunch as to what Herellia''s ns were.

    "Now I wonder..." Horell mumbled to himself. "Will this Spiritas fight back?"

    ...

    "Holy shit," Aurus couldn''t believe it. He knew what the skill could do, but he didn''t know that it was this overpowered!

    ________

    [Unyielding Spiritas] (Level 1/3)

    Grade: C (Mortal)

    As a Spiritas who treads both the paths of Life and Will, you do not sumb to the temptations of both, but instead forge your own path.

    > All damage taken is reduced to 1 for 3 seconds

    Cooldown: 12 hours

    ________

    Looking at the two beings'' faces of shock, Auurs couldn''t help butugh in a grim manner as he said, "Since you''ve attacked me, it''s time to return the favor!"

    "[Spirit Energy Ascension]!"

    At the instant he activated the skill, his SP was drained furiously as the 18 SP recovery Animas surrounding him madly regenerated the lost SP, the silver me surrounding his body taking a corporeal form.

    Ding! Ding!

    ''[Spirit Energy Ascension] has leveled up.''

    ''[Spirit Energy Ascension] has leveled up.''

    As the skill leveled up twice, the height of the silver me rose up as an aura of terror exuded from Aurus'' body. Loran and Horell looked at this, with Loran furious but curious to find out what Aurus was doing.

    Not long after, a notification screen appeared in front of Aurus'' field of vision.

    Ding!

    ''The exchange of SP into power has reached its limit, boosting the user''s power by 110%!''

    Of course, this was not over.

    "[Spirit Ascension]!"

    Bang!

    After activating this skill, a loud explosion resounded out of Aurus'' body as the silver me surrounding him turned ck. At this moment, being fueled with a lot of SP, the ck me surrounding Aurus grew stronger as it became more and more corporeal.

    The [Spirit Ascension] skill increased the stat boost limit by 50%, thus allowing him to have a stat boost limit of 165%!

    During this time, Aurus also activated [Tempest Burst], which doubled movement speed, attack speed, and of course, attack power.

    Ding!

    It didn''t take long for the ck me to finish engulfing SP, boosting Aurus'' stats by 165%.

    Aurus took this chance to look at Loran as a Spirit Spear made out of Anima hovered above his body while being covered in ck mes and tempestuous winds.

    "You know what? Since you''re so prideful to not even let me exin the reasons why I don''t want to join your alliance, just let this be the reason why I don''t want to join."

    The Spirit Spear''s ferocity grew in size as an incredibly sharp aura surrounded the spear. Looking at his SP bar refilling back to its maximum amount, he then shot the spear towards Loran as he shouted.

    "[Spirit Spear: eptance]!"

    Loran thought that the aura exuded by the spear was extremely terrifying, but since it came from an A-grade Inanimate, she thought it would only reduce her HP by around 200 at moment, making her rx as sheughed.

    As for Horell, he knew the power behind the spear as he kept silent, mumbling inwardly, ''Let''s just say this is a wake-up call for her.''

    "Hahaha! How much damage could that puny spear d¡ªurgh!" Continuing tough, Loran belittled the spear shot out by Aurus, only for arge chunk of her HP bar to be removed.

    Ding!

    ''Aurus has dealt 3338 HP damage to [Loran].''

 Chapter 35 - Intervening

    Tempest Cliff, the hall where the members of the Tempest Branch Alliance stayed.

    Currently, only Herellia was left inside the hall, with the other members heading towards the other parts of the Tempest Cliff as they focused on getting stronger and perhaps getting enough experience to evolve to a higher grade.

    In the center of the hall, an image of a tree fighting against a glowing stick was shown, which only Herellia at the moment could only see. Herellia looked at this and had a serious expression on its nonexistent face as it saw Loran, the tree, shoot out a tornado towards the glowing stick, which was Aurus.

    "Haah..." Herellia couldn''t help but sigh. It knew that this was going to happen as it happened to know Loran''s temper, which was stupendously short for a tree, that was usually called a patient being. "I hope the Spiritas doesn''t die from this atta¡ªeh?"

    Within the image, the tornado collided with the glowing stick, only for the glowing stick''s body to absorb the whole attack like it was nothing. Herellia''s eyes gleamed and looked at the glowing stick as if it was a treasure. "If we have this stick in the alliance, we truly might have the chance to fight against an Animate!"

    Contrary to what the other sentient branches and trees know, Animates, in this case humans, were not easy to kill. Herellia knew this for a fact since it tried to fight against an unguarded one before, only to end up badly injured.

    "With a skill like that that negates massive amounts of damage, I truly might be able to achieve thest requirement I need before evolving."

    Bang!

    While mumbling to itself, a ear-splitting sound resounded out of the image, forcing Herellia to snap back to realty and watch as it realized that the glowing stick retaliated.

    "This stick is only going to deal around 500 damage at most," Herellia hypothesised. It knew that A-grade Inanimates were limited in their ability to deal massive amounts of damage, and that was partly due to their small stats. Continuing to look at the image, the retaliation of the stick critically injured the tree, reducing three-fourths of the tree''s HP in an instant.

    "What?!" Herellia couldn''t believe what it was seeing. An A-grade Inanimate was able to critically injure a tree from an alliance without being part of another alliance? It was truly unheard of for Herellia. At these moments of disbelief, a voice resounded throughout the hall as if it was talking to Herellia.

    "This Spiritas seems to be stronger than we thought."

    Herellia was slightly startled, but regained itsposure in an instant when it realized where the voice came from.

    "Horell, what do you think of the Spiritas?" Herellia asked.

    "It''s unlike any other Spiritas I''ve seen, and the past two Spiritas I''ve seen were only invincible in the A-grade. To think that we have ourselves an A-grade Spiritas that could easily kill an S-grade, this stick might just be a blessing for us if it joins."

    Horell was the branch beside Loran, and he was the one who allowed Herellia to watch the fight between Aurus and Loran. Of course, Horell meeting Aurus face-to-face would allow him to examine Aurus at a better angle rather than from an image.

    "Indeed," Herellia agreed with Horell''s statement. As it continued to look at the Spiritas'' body, it could notice hints of divinity within, but it seemed that Horell nor Loran could see it. While watching, it said to Horell, "I think you should persuade it to join because I think it''s been blessed by the¡ª"

    Before finishing its statement, Loran was dumbfounded at the amount of damage she received and snapped as she started to consume all of her Life points and even part of her SP in order to boost her power.

    "Oh shit," Herellia couldn''t help but curse. In an instant, it gradually floated in midair as it shouted before leaving, "Horell, make sure that the Spiritas is protected. And if necessary..."

    "Kill Loran."

    ...

    Outside the Tempest Ruin.

    "Ahhhh! How dare you defile my body!" Loran, who was critically injured in one hit thanks to Aurus'' Spirit Spear, snapped under her stupendously short temper and didn''t hesitate to exchange all of her hard-earned Life points and even part of her SP as a corporeal yellow aura covered her body, intensifiying the aura of fear that surrounded her.

    Of course, Aurus wouldn''t want the same thing to happen hence he hurriedly moved far away from Loran, who was still in the process of powering up, with haste thanks to the [Tempest Burst] skill.

    "Damn," Aurus couldn''t help but say. "How the hell did I meet a lunatic?"

    "Hello there." A voice suddenly resounded inside Aurus'' mind, who was already badly shaken up thanks to the psychotic actions the tree did just because he didn''t enter their alliance.

    "W-Who?!" Of course, Aurus didn''t know who was talking, hence he looked around and noticed the branch that was beside the tree that attacked him. As far as he knew, the branch didn''t move from its position even after the tree went out of control. Calming down, he asked, "Who are you? And why do you want me to join your alliance?"

    "First off, I''m Horell, an X-grade Inanimate with the High Energistus ss from the Tempest Branch Alliance." Compared to Loran, Horell was more dignified and gentlemanly, allowing him to win over many branches and trees in this manner. "As for why..."

    "Our leader will tell you all of that since she''s already heading our way."

    "Your leader?" Aurus couldn''t believe it. If the members of the alliance were already monstrous in terms of stats and attack power, how more monstrous could the leader be?

    As Loran started to conjure a ball of energy that radiated a yellow glow, Horell couldn''t help but let out a sigh, which was heard by Aurus thanks to their connection. "I''m sorry about this. I really didn''t want Loran toe here because of her extremely short temper, but our leader told us toe so..."

    "Well..." Aurus looked at the crazed tree and said to Horell in sympathy, "I think I can understand what you''re going through. Anyways, I''m Aurus. Once I meet your leader, I might just join your alliance."

    Hearing Aurus'' reply, Horell instantly became ecstatic before hastily concealing his emotions. Clearing his throat, he then said to Aurus, "Well Aurus, the first thing we should do for now is remove Loran from her crazed state. Can you help me with that? I''ll support you."

    Aurus was surprised. An X-grade Inanimate, supporting him from the sidelines. It might just be a dreame true. Looking at the energy ball above Loran that was growingrger andrger, Aurus nodded as he said, "Alright then."

    With the [Tempest Burst] skill now in cooldown, he wouldn''t be able to move twice as fast anymore nor hit twice as hard anymore, which meant that he would deal half the damage from before. Aurus didn''t mind that and closed his eyes as he changed all of his recovery Animas to HP recovering Animas.

    "[High Spirit Channeling]!"

    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!

    In an instant, the SP bar that stored over 350 points was easily filled thanks to exchanging HP into SP. Thanks to his experiments, Aurus knew that exchanging HP into SP was faster than relying on his innate SP recovery, even if it was boosted by recovery Animas.

    Ding! Ding!

    ''[High Spirit Channeling] has leveled up twice.''

    Not minding the notification screen, Aurus hurriedly conjured a Spirit Spear and threw it at Loran. Although it wasn''t the eptance form that dealt as much damage as possible, it was a form that would help him out at the moment.

    "[Spirit Spear]..."

    "[Depression]!"

    Bang!

    Without difficulty, the Spirit Spear collided with Loran''s body, easily covering Loran with an aura where she felt heavy and powerless.

    Ding!

    ''Aurus has dealt 695 HP damage to [Loran].''

    ''The Slow debuff has been inflicted on [Loran].''

    ''The Attack Down debuff has been inflicted on [Loran].''

    Although [Tempest Burst] wasn''t activated, he was still able to deal hundreds of damage to a stick, easily two shotting any normal S-grade stick. But that wasn''t the specialty of the Depression form. Its specialty was to inflict a movement speed down and attack down debuff on the enemy.

    Of course, being hit with another Spirit Spear, Loran''s HP was now around the low 1000s, thus angering her even more. Continuing to scream in a hoarse voice, the energy ball above her body that radiated a yellow glow, now gradually turned red as strands of red light from Loran''s body started to assimte with the ball.

    "What the...?!" Horell couldn''t believe it. Looking at Loran, he shouted, "Have you gone out of your mind?! Using your HP to increase the power of your energy ball?! Will this do anything beneficial?"

    "Hahahaha! Yes! Yes it will! It''ll wipe this stick''s existence to ashes!" With her mind in an erratic state, Loran wasn''t able to think rationally as she fired the energy ball towards Aurus.

    "Crap!" Horell then looked at Aurus and shouted, "Stay where you are. I''ll cast a barrier around you!"

    Aurus followed what Horell said and looked at Horell as he exquisitely manipted his SP towards Aurus and easily conjured a strong defensive barrier around him.

    "[Fortress Barrier]!"

    At this point, Horell couldn''t help but look at Loran''s body and muttered, "Just end this already."

    And at that moment...

    Whoosh!

    A furious gust of wind instantly bisected the red energy ball into two, removing the destructive power it had as it continued towards Loran''s body. Even though she was still in her crazed state, Loran instantly knew where the furious gust of wind came from, hastily returning back to her normal state as she pleaded, "No, don''t! I''m still a valuable asset to your alliance!"

    And then, a firm and strict feminine voice resounded out as the furious gust of wind bisected Loran''s body into two. "You''ve gotten my members into danger multiple times already. Just die."

    Shaa...

    In an instant, Loran''s body, which was considered extremely power from Aurus'' standards, was easily cut into two as arge branchnded in front of Aurus who was still inside a defensive barrier. This branch had red engravings all over its body as it looked at Aurus.

    Seeing the destructive prowess of the branch, Aurus couldn''t help but stutter as he asked, "W-W-Who are y-you?!"

    "Me?" Seeing that the branch she wanted to recruit was behind her, she turned and looked at Aurus before saying...

    "I''m Herellia."

 Chapter 36 - Negotiation

    Aurus looked at Herellia for a bit as he couldn''tprehend what happened just a few seconds ago. A furious gust of wind easily negating the red energy ball Loran threw and still have enough power to cut Loran''s body into two? With his curiosity at its max, Aurus couldn''t help himself from identifying Herellia.

    Ding!

    ________

    [Herellia (Branch Grandius Forminosus ¡ª Blood Belhazard)]

    Existence Level: Inanimate (X)

    Level: 40/40 (MAX)

    HP: 15800/15800

    MP: 5700/5700

    Stats:

    [Toughness]: 3452

    [Thickness]: 3825

    [Blood Energy]: 6132

    Skills:

    Uncheckable due to the skill [Species Analysis] being low level

    ________

    In an instant, he became dumbfounded at Herellia''s stats. Although Herellia had lower HP and SP whenpared to Horell who was a High Energistus, in other words a High Mage, it was already surprising for Herellia to have that much health already! Why?

    It''s because she''s a Belhazard! And not only that, a Blood Belhazard, which means she has special abilities other than having the abilities of a berserker.

    Of course, the fact that her attack power being about 3000 points higher than Horell also shocked him to the core. He concluded that this was the reason why she could cleave Loran into two so easily, despite Aurus being an A-grade having difficulties to kill her.

    "Then again I''m already an anomaly," Aurus couldn''t help butugh at himself as he looked at Horell. Horell was looking at Herellia with a gaze filled with respect and awe...well that''s what he was feeling thanks to their souls being incredibly strong.

    Still within the defensive barrier, Aurus then asked Horell, "Horell, is this Herellia...the leader of your alliance?"

    Taking another nce at her body, Aurus noticed that the red engravings wriggled around as she emitted a somewhat tense and suffocating aura, making Aurus conclude that she was a strict person. Horell, on the other hand, did not notice this and affirmed Aurus'' question by saying, "Indeed, she is the leader of the alliance. She has made multiple branches and trees follow her up to this day, where we could be considered a strong power within the Tempest Cliff."

    From this statement, Aurus inferred a few things from Horell''s words and asked, "So you''re telling me that your alliance is not the sole strong power within this ce?"

    At this moment, Herellia noticed that she was being ignored by the two men, forcing her to say, "Horell, remove the barrier around Aurus."

    Horell, who didn''t know what was going to happen, still followed hermands, dissolving the barrier that protected Aurus. Aurus panicked in an instant as he could sense that Herellia''s aura intensified as she rolled closer and closer to him. "Please don''te closer! Ahhhh, please!"

    Any normal person would panic once they see someone or something that is out of their league trying to get back at them. So it wasn''t unusual for Aurus to be scared in front of Herellia, whose aura could already kill him if need be.

    Horell looked at this situation from the side and couldn''t help but say words of encouragement to Aurus. Of course, Aurus couldn''t hear Horell''s words as he was fully enveloped by Herellia''s aura, making him look at Herellia as some sort of deity.

    But this feeling changed once Herellia removed her aura around Aurus and let out a sigh. "Hah. I didn''t have to do this but I needed to get your attention."

    "My attention?" Aurus was somewhat confused for a bit before remembering that he ignored Herellia, talking to Horell instead. Knowing his mistakes, he hurriedly apologized. "I''m sorry for ignoring you. I was asking things about you and the alliance and the rumored powers within the Tempest Cliff...although you somewhat cut me off on thest part."

    Herellia then looked at Horell and asked, "Is that true?"

    Horell nodded as he replied, "Indeed. I was going to tell our friend Aurus here about the situation within the Tempest Cliff and I hoped that would persuade him to enter the alliance."

    Of course, this question and answer portion happened through connecting their SP rather than speaking out loud from their souls. They didn''t want to let Aurus hear their conversation.

    Seeing that she misunderstood the situation, she hurriedly apologized as well before saying, "So, as you''ve heard from Horell, I''m the leader of the Tempest Branch Alliance. Name''s Herellia."

    After the aura around Herellia disappeared, Aurus felt that Herellia was approachable and friendly. Since Herellia was being kind to him, he reciprocated the gesture. "Nice to meet you, I''m Aurus. I''ve heard from Horell that you want me to join your Tempest Branch Alliance? Why is that?"

    Hearing that Aurus wanted to know the reasons for him joining the alliance, Herellia didn''t hesitate to reply in full honesty even though they''ve only met for the first time. "It''s like this. Well, I''ll continue from where Horell left, which is the powers inside the Tempest Cliff."

    "The first strong power in this Tempest Cliff is of course, our Tempest Branch Alliance, being filled with S-grade and X-grade branches and trees, fighting for the sole cause of defeating one of the other powers within the Tempest Cliff."

    "The next two powers are also alliances, albeit somewhat weaker than us. The two alliances including ours have decided to form a peace treaty to not harm each other''s members and alliances, only focusing on the sole remaining power within the Tempest Cliff."

    "And that is?" Aurus asked since he felt that thisst power must be extremely strong to force the three alliances to create a peace treaty.

    "Actually, this power isn''t an alliance but instead an individual," Herellia replied. "This individual has already broken to the Animate level and gained sentience, allowing it to crush us branches and trees like nothing."

    "The form this individual took was a..."

    "Wolf."

    "Wolf?" Aurus paused for a second, not believing what Herellia said. "Shouldn''t Animates be sentient and intelligent like humans?"

    Herellia did not know the answer to that as well, replying, "I''ve been in this world for around 3 years and I''ve gained a soul after one more year, learning tons of information for 2 more months. But after all of my learning, I still don''t know what that individual is thinking."

    Aurus looked at Herellia for a bit and sensed a feeling of helplessness exuding from her body, seeing that she had no idea as to why that individual chose to be a Wolf rather than a Human. Of course, being in this world for only a few weeks, even with his early-game memories unsealed, he didn''t know why the individual chose that path. He did know that the choice to be an animal as an Animate existed, but he didn''t see advantages in it.

    "And you want me to join the alliance to...?" After Herellia exined the four powers of the Tempest Cliff, Aurus got back to the main topic, which was the reason for Herellia inviting him to join the alliance.

    "I''ve seen your capabilities and I feel like once you''ve evolved to S-grade, you will exceed Horell''s capabilities as a Mage, being a powerful asset for our fight against the wolf," Herellia exined from a logical perspective. "Also, you have that heaven defying skill where you nullify any damage you take and that would also help out a lot."

    Although Herellia didn''t directly answer Aurus'' question, Aurus was able to get the gist as he asked, "So what you''re saying is...you want me to join the alliance for my skills and capabilities?"

    Herellia didn''t disagree with the idea as she said, "Well that''s not wrong."

    "Okay then, I''ll join your alliance," Aurus agreed to Herellia''s offer since he realized that Loran''s case was just a unique case. Talking to her for a bit, he realized that the alliance was quite a suitable ce for him. Hearing his reply, Herellia became ecstatic as she said, "Sweet! Let''s go back to the main hall and¡ª"

    Only to be cut off by Aurus.

    "But on one condition."

    Herellia lightly coughed for a bit as she noticed that Aurus was not done talking. She then asked, "What''s your condition?"

    "Let me enter the Tempest Ruin," Aurus replied. "I need to grab something from there before I can join your alliance."

    "If you don''t mind, can I ask what that thing might be?" All of a sudden, Horell asked from the side.

    Since Aurus knew that these two people were going to be hispatriots for a while, he honestly replied to Horell''s question. "Well it''s not a thing, but things. I have to get two skills from the Tempest Ruin, one being a skill that allows me to move faster, and the other one being a skill that allows me to heal HP."

    "Did you just say...healing?" Horell and Herellia asked at the same time. The fact that having a healing skill would allow them to do more things without any fear. So far, within their alliance, only one member of theirs had a healing skill, but it had a long cooldown thatsted hours.

    At that instant, Herellia then said to Horell, "Horell, broadcast to all of the members that I''ll be gone for a while. The reason being I have to do something important."

    Horell got the hint hidden between Herellia''s words and nodded as he sent out multiple strands of SP out to the sky before respectfully saying farewell to both Herellia and Aurus, basically leaving the two of them alone.

    Aurus instantly felt like something was off after Horell left in a sort of monotonous manner. Facing Herellia, he asked, "Since Horell left, aren''t you going to leave as well?"

    "Me? Why would I leave?" Herellia gave off a cheery aura as she replied. "Is it wrong for me to join you on your way to Tempest Ruin?"

    "You don''t have any objections to that right?"

 Chapter 37 - Dangers From All Sides

    "You don''t have any objections to that right?"

    "Well, the ce I''m going to is extremely dangerous even for X-grade Inanimates. Not to mention, there''s a special method needed to enter the ce where the skills are."

    "Can''t you just teach me the method and let me go with you?"

    "Uh...there are tons of traps along the way that could easily reduce our HP to 0, plus there are a lot of S-grade and X-grade beings along the way as well. I want to avoid confronting any of them."

    "If I''m there, wouldn''t you get to the ce faster since I can kill them in one shot? Also you''re a mage. Can''t you use long distance skills to trigger the traps from far away?"

    "Well sure we can do that but...the skills I''m getting are only suitable for a specific species and I think you won''t be able to get it."

    "Who cares? If I can''t learn it then I''ll just get another member of our alliance to learn the skill, simple as that."

    "But the..." Aurus continued to think up of reasons to refrain Herellia from joining him on his way to the Tempest Ruin, only to be defeated by Herellia''s quick wits and logical answers. With a sigh, he started to roll towards the Tempest Ruin and said, "Fine, you cane."

    The cheery aura that Herellia exuded instantly became more vibrant as she said in joy, "Yay! I can go on an adventure!"

    Seeing that Aurus was already heading towards the Tempest Ruin, Herellia didn''t dilly-dally any further and activated her movement skill. A gust of wind started to circte around her body before getting enough oomph to support her body, letting her body hover a few decimeters above the ground.

    Of course, with Aurus having the [Soul Perception I] skill acting as his eyes, he was able to see Herellia floating above the ground, allowing her to move at a speed that was superbly higher than Aurus, but in consideration to Aurus'' movement speed, she slowed down and maintained the same pace as Aurus, wanting to talk with him as they traversed the Tempest Ruin.

    "Say Aurus, how did you know that there were skills hidden within the Tempest Ruin? Being the leader of the Tempest Branch Alliance that has its headquarters in the Tempest Cliff, it''s impossible for me to not know anything about every nook and cranny of the Tempest Cliff, but to think that there''s such a thing inside the cliff appalls me."

    It was a given that Aurus couldn''t talk about him being reincarnated as a stick, having the knowledge of his past life that was useful in his current life since he yed a game that was based in the same world in his current life. Letting out a stifled chuckle, he replied, "Well, Ms. Herellia, I can''t tell you how I know. If I did do that, then I wouldn''t have let youe join me."

    Seeing that Aurus wanted to hide his secrets, Herellia didn''t dig any deeper as she heard Aurus'' way of calling her. "Since we''re going to be members of the alliance after this...well we''re already members so just call me Herellia."

    Aurus didn''t deny Herellia''s offer as he knew that she had a friendly kind of personality. "If you insist Herellia. Anyways, what''s the alliance like? What''s the hierarchy of power within it?" Since he was going to join Herellia''s alliance, it didn''t hurt to ask for information right?

    "Well...although our alliance is the strongest within the Tempest Cliff, we don''t really have that much rules, allowing members to do what they want as long as it doesn''t hurt the other members," Herellia replied after a bit of pondering.

    She then continued afterwards, "As for the hierarchy of power, I''m the leader since I''m the strongest out of all the members. The next level of power below me goes to the 7 other X-grade beings within the alliance. I personally call them the Pirs since they pretty much molded the alliance into what it is. Below that are the strong S-grade beings, I call them Executives because they can help out at crucial times. Thest level of power are the weak S-grades, just being normal members of the alliance. All in all, we number at around 69 members...well, 70 since you''ve joined."

    "To be honest, you''re an exception to the hierarchy since you''ve surpassed the strength of normal members, almost equal to the strength of the Executives. I don''t know where to put you in to be honest."

    "I don''t really care about position," Aurus replied. "I just want to be stronger, and an alliance is the easiest way for me to do so."

    Herellia couldn''t help but have a good impression of Aurus. Aurus was just like her, pursuing to be the strongest. After a while, Herellia then asked, "Aurus, I want to ask something."

    "Hm?" Aurus hemmed at Herellia''s question while looking at the path in front of them. They have already traversed over 300 meters inside the Tempest Ruin. They needed to cross around 1500 more meters to be at the ce where the skills would be at. "What is it?"

    "I was just wondering...are you perhaps the same as me? Being blessed by the g¡ª"

    Herellia''s question was cut short as the two of them both felt a menacing aura from a few meters in front of them. Looking ahead, Aurus couldn''t help but say, "We''ve gotpany."

    ...

    Tempest Cliff, outside the boundary of the Tempest Ruin.

    A muscr man with multiple scars on his face was currently looking at a crystal that had a red dot inside it blink every once in a while. This man was Artan, the one who Dane hired to capture Aurus. Beside him was a solemn-looking woman who had a magic staff that was taller than her, being almost the same height as Artan. Nheless, she looked at the Tempest Ruin in front of her as if its secrets were already exposed by her. This woman was Mira, the one Dane asked toe with Artan.

    "So this is why Dane told me he was going to pay me 5000 gold coins if I sessfully captured that thingy. It was actually within the Tempest Cliff. Even I wouldn''t go here unless I had a reason," Artan muttered as he continued to pinpoint the direction of the thing he needed to capture.

    "Well we better capture it as fast as possible," a soft yet firm voice came from the side. It was Mira''s. Being a mage herself, she knew why Dane would pay 5000 gold to capture a Spiritas.

    Although it was a stick, it was a stick of legends! Many magic items, when crafted using a Spiritas as a main material, would suddenly be more effective than any other magic item out there!

    "Alright, I''ve tracked the location of the thingy," Artan said after a while to Mira. "Since we finally have a rough direction to follow, cast Fly and a movement speed boosting spell to let us traverse the ruins faster and hopefully get that thingy before it escapes."

    Mira looked at Artan and couldn''t help but say, "You better give me 60% of the pay you get. Casting magic is extremely hard."

    Tapping the magic staff she held on the ground, she started to chant as the mana in the surroundings started to cover their bodies.

    "1st Circle. Holos Miselus Levitas."

    Weeennggg!

    Not long after, their bodies started to float in midair as the Fly spell was sessfully casted. After that, Mira casted a spell that was moreplexpared to the Fly spell. In exchange, the efficacy of the spell in tandem with the Fly spell would allow them to traverse hundreds of meters within a few minutes.

    "3rd Circle. Holos Supris Vitalis Grandus. Gravitas Supris Vitalis Less. Esper Supris Widus."

    "Child of the Wind!"

    Whoosh!

    As if they were the masters of their surroundings, they had the feeling that they could traverse thousands of meters within seconds. Of course, that was just an illusion.

    With both spells activated, Mira looked at Artan and said, "Let''s go! The movement speed boosting effect will onlyst for two minutes at most!"

    Nodding his head, Artan looked at the ruins in front of him and started to fly inside, with Mira following from behind.

    ...

    Inside Kurohana''s space.

    Kurohana looked at the orb in front of her and noticed that the image shown on the orb did not only have Aurus in it, for another stick was beside him. With her divine powers, she was able to sense the stick''s affiliation with Aurus. Not only that, she also sensed something special from the stick.

    "Hoh...a friend for Aurus. How great. Wait...I can sense a trace of divinity from that stick. Has a god also reincarnated a soul into a stick and sent it to the same world?"

    Seeing that another god has discovered her ns, Kurohana instantly showed her aggressive side as a strong killing intent suffused into the surroundings, yet there was no one around her to truly feel the terror of her killing intent. After a while, she perceived something within the orb that was not obvious, but it could change Aurus'' fate in the future. Calming herself down, she thought of how this fate would y out, predicting the path Aurus would take in the future. She thenughed not long afterwards, looking at the orb with interest.

    "I see. If that''s the case, then I don''t have to use him as a catalyst anymore!"

    "I just need the mortals of that world to use him as a weapon material and let him evolve over time!"

 Chapter 38 - An Unusual Fight

    Tempest Cliff.

    "Looks like we''ve got somepany," Aurus said in a soft voice, easily noticing the menacing aura exuded by a being only a few meters away from them. With the variations of the terrain in terms of height every once in a while along Aurus and Herellia''s path, fortunately, the being couldn''t see them. It was also fortunate that they were able to see the enemy as it was lower than them.

    "Identify." Using the chance they had, Aurusmanded the system to identify the entity in front of them. In an instant, a screen appeared in front of Aurus'' field of vision, shocking him in an instant as he couldn''t help but mutter, "Do I have bad luck or insanely good luck?"

    Ding!

    ________

    [John (Branch Siphonus Fearus (Special))]

    Existence Level: Inanimate (X)

    Level: 31/40

    HP: 9200/9200

    SP: 3150/3800

    Stats:

    [Immunity]: 1683

    [Mental Fortitude]: 2215

    [Fear Intent]: 1821

    Skills:

    [Fear Aura ¡ª Third Seal], other skills are uncheckable due to the skill [Species Analysis] being low level

    ________

    "Holy shit," Aurus couldn''t help but curse at the being in front of them. Out of all the possible grades they could meet, it was an X-grade being. Not only that, it was even a special type of being that didn''t follow the Branch Formosus path nor the Sapling path.

    "Hey Aurus, I''d suggest you support me from the side on this one. This being gives me the creeps," Herellia couldn''t help but shiver inwardly as she could feel the aura emanating from the being.

    Since Aurus knew Herellia''s ss, he knew what Herellia was going to do. While she was still by his side, he hurriedlymanded the system to identify the skill he got from John through the [Species Analysis] skill.

    Ding!

    ________

    [Fear Aura ¡ª Third Seal]

    Grade: S (Mortal)

    As a being that gains power by siphoning fear out of the enemies it meets, it gained proficiency in controlling this amassed fear, creating a domain around the being where its properties are boosted. In exchange, a part of its SP is used up every once in a while.

    This aura has formed its thirdyer already, significantly boosting the boost the being gets.

    > Boosts the being''s stats by 100%

    > Gives the SP Depletion debuff to the being

    ________

    With him gaining knowledge on the enemy, Aurus gained more confidence in his words as he said to Herellia, "Herellia, once you get covered by the aura, make sure to always stay on guard. Although it looks weak, it packs a strong punch."

    Taking his words into consideration, Herellia nodded as she gradually floated up in the air, heading towards the being that exuded the aura. Not long after, a red aura that contained intense bloodlust started to cover Herellia, gaining the being''s attention.

    As for Aurus, he continued to roll a bit more forwards, exchanging his SP for power as a silver me started to cover his body while a magic circle was conjured inside his Spell Core. With his attention focused on the being, he muttered, "Let''s see how it goes."

    ...

    "Hm?" The being that suffused a menacing and stifling aura, instantly noticed an aura that didn''t lose out to his from the skies. This being''s name was John. It was the same being that Aurus identified.

    John looked at the body of the branch from the skies and noticed the red engravings wriggling all over its body. At first, he didn''t know what they were, but after a while, he grimlyughed as he started to use his SP to prepare a skill. "I see, this branch is critically injured. I don''t mind gifts at all. I''ll put it to good use!"

    With the name of the skill shouted in his mind, arge cluster of the intangible energy around him, suddenly gathered and formed a half corporeal hand as it exuded a ghastly glow. Not long after, miserable shrieks could be hearding from the hand as it shot out towards Herellia.

    Noticing the handing out to get her, Herellia let out a stifled snort as the red aura around her became more and more corporeal. Not long after, the red engravings all over her body converged towards one point as a crimson red tendril shot out of her body from the engravings, colliding with the half corporeal hand.

    "Hahaha! You dare face my [Imprable Ghast Hand] with a measly tendril? You must be drea¡ª" In the midst of John''s arrogant remarks, the crimson red tendril suddenly expanded to the hand''s size and in one fell swoop, engulfed it. Rather than continuing his remarks, he swallowed the words he was about to say, slightly looking at the branch floating in front of him with fear.

    "[Blood Art: Siphon]"

    That was the name of the skill that Herellia used. It was simr to Aurus'' [Five Mncholy Spirit Spear] that had five forms. The Siphon form allowed the crimson red tendril to engulf the skill of the enemy, which was a hand. Now, what would she do with it?

    "[Blood Art]..."

    "[Consume]."

    The crimson red tendril that expanded to engulf the hand in one go, suddenly shrunk in size as the hand engulfed also shrunk as well as it was forcefully pressed into a tight space. Not long after that, the hand lost its rigidity, turning into pure energy which was absorbed by Herellia.

    After a few seconds, a blood red me started to cover Herellia''s body. With the corporeal red aura and the blood me surrounding her, it made Herellia look like the goddess of blood.

    Aurus looked at Herellia from afar with shock. From how Herellia handled it, it seemed that she didn''t need his help at all. With him getting to that conclusion, he deactivated the [Spirit Energy Ascension] skill and watched the fight as a bystander. "I guess I can also see a glimpse into the Blood Belhazard ss, a ss that''s beyond a normal Belhazard."

    Wooooonnnngggg...

    With the blood red mepletely covering Herellia''s body, it was time for Herellia to move on to the next step. She was the one going to attack.

    "[Blood Art: Coagte]"

    The crimson red tendril that sprouted out of the red engravings all over her body, suddenly detached itself from her body, being covered by the corporeal red aura. After that, the blood red me that was a transformation of the energy that made John''s energy into a usable energy for Herellia, was transferred into the tendril as it now exuded a sharpness and fierceness that didn''t lose to anything sharp and fierce.

    Sensing the aura surrounding the red tendril, John looked at it and scoffed, "Just a facade to hide its measly attack power. Why would I be scared of that?"

    A Branch Siphonus Fearus was a Special being that didn''t tread the Branch Forminosus path, but rather made a path for itself by harnessing the fear felt by enemies. With the cacophony of screams and wails within his aura, plus with his stats transformed into stats that suited his current personality, it wasn''t unusual for John to get to this conclusion. As a being that spread fear, he didn''t need to fear anyone at all.

    Of course, he didn''t know that this was the real deal.

    "[Blood Art]..."

    "[Sanguine Burst]."

    Bang!

    Like a sh of lightning, the red tendril that was boosted in strength instantly pierced through the aura surrounding John, and of course, through John''s body as well. With just one tendril, all 9200 of his HP was depleted in an instant, not even letting him say any words of regret.

    Whoosh!

    After dying, a plethora of red and green particles scattered all over the ground, which Herellia grabbed without hesitation as she needed it to evolve anyways.

    Being dumbstruck at the attack power of that red tendril, Aurus was at a loss for words when Herellia came back to his side.

    "The problem is gone. Let''s continue," Herellia said as she instantly noticed Aurus'' dumbstruck expression...well his aura that showed intense disbelief.

    After a while, Aurus was able to regain his senses as he looked at Herellia. He made a mental note to not mess with Herellia. Ever.

    With the threat in front of them gone, they continued to tread along the path that Aurus remembered.

    Along the way, Aurus couldn''t forget the prowess behind the skill Herellia showed. Thinking that it was because of the alliance, he then asked, "What level is your alliance at?"

    When guilds in games had levels, alliances in ISE had levels as well. Rather than unlocking new buildings or features, they just boosted one feature. That feature was a boost to the member''s stats.

    "Hm? Level 7. Why?" Herellia let out a curious aura as she replied. Although she knew that whenever her alliance got stronger, she grew stronger as well, she didn''t really know the basis behind it.

    "Level 7...stats are boosted by 100% at A-grade and S-grade, while it''s 200% for X-grade!" Aurus couldn''t help but mutter in disbelief as he knew that leveling an alliance was hard. Although the maximum level for alliances were 30, even before he reincarnated as a stick, the highest leveled alliance was only at 23.

    Seeing that Aurus was engrossed in his thoughts, Herellia thought back to the question she was going to ask Aurus before they met John. At first, she hesitated since they only knew each other for like a few hours or so. But now, after fighting against John, she decided to ask one more time. She didn''t know why she wanted to do it, she just had a feeling that it would be beneficial for her and the alliance.

    "Hey Aurus."

    "Yes?" Done being trapped inside his own little world, Aurus snapped back to reality as he replied to Herellia''s call.

    "Have you been blessed by the gods?"

    "What?"

 Chapter 39 - Secrets Revealed

    "Have you been blessed by the gods?"

    "What?"

    "I said, have you been blessed by the gods?"

    "Yeah, I heard you the first time. What do you mean by it?" Of course, Aurus was blessed by a god, the Goddess of Reincarnation specifically. He wasn''t stupid at all. It was one of his most hidden secrets and how was Herellia, a branch that had only been with Aurus for a short while, able to know that he was blessed by a god?

    Sensing the confused aura surrounding Aurus'' body, it seemed that Aurus in front of her did not know what being ''blessed by the gods'' meant. Feeling like a knowledgeable schr, Herellia then said, "A being blessed by the gods is someone who has be a representative of the god, or perhaps, an indirect child of the god. This is attributed to how those blessed by the gods are able to grow strong that would allow them to defeat those stronger than them at a lower level, or perhaps even be undefeated amongst every being that fought them."

    "Mm," Aurus replied with a soft grunt hesitatingly. He really didn''t want to tell Herellia that he was blessed by the gods. At that moment, a spark of realization entered Aurus'' mind. If Herellia asked him if he was blessed by the gods, then that meant she might be blessed by the gods as well? Testing if his hypothesis was correct, he then asked Herellia, "Well...judging by what you said, then that must mean that you''re blessed by the gods, Herellia?"

    "Eh? Uh..." Unsurprisingly, Herellia went silent for a moment as she hesitated on what to answer. From this alone, it seemed that his hypothesis was correct. With this, Aurus continued onto the next step, which was coercing her to say she was blessed even if it meant knowing he was blessed.

    Looking at Herellia that was floating a few decimeters above the ground, Aurus then said, "You know what? Let''s just say our answers at the same time?"

    "Answers? What answers?" Herellia easily forgot her question as she wanted to keep her secret as well. Aurus then followed up with, "Being blessed by the gods. Whether we are blessed or not."

    "Ah. Uh..." Herellia hesitated for a bit before giving off a helpless aura. "Sure."

    "Okay then. I''ll count from 3."

    "3..."

    "2..."

    "1..."

    "Yes!"

    "Yes."

    "Oh, as expected," Aurus couldn''t help but say after hearing Herellia''s answer. Herellia, on the other hand, was surprised that Aurus had the same fate as her, being blessed by the gods. Continuing to trudge on forward, she then asked, "Which god blessed you?"

    Seeing that Herellia was now open to this topic, Aurus didn''t hesitate to say it out loud. "The Goddess of Reincarnation. You?"

    "The Goddess of Kinship," Herellia replied with motivation. "Why did the Goddess of Reincarnation choose you?"

    "Well..." Aurus hesitated once more. If he answered the question, she would be the first one to know his past. Deciding to y safe, he asked, "You should tell me why the Goddess of Kinship chose you first. If you answer, then I''ll tell."

    "Heh? That''s unfair," Herellia couldn''t help butin that she became the one answering Aurus'' questions rather than the opposite. But it did seem that Aurus didn''t want to answer unless she answered first, so after letting out a sigh, she then exined, "Before the Goddess of Kinship chose me, I was any other stick out there, no life at all. Though there were circumstances and lucky encounters that made my body grow stronger, I still wasn''t ''alive''...until the Goddess found me. Even up to now, I still don''t know why the Goddess chose me. But she did say something to me once she chose me."

    "What did she say?" Aurus asked.

    "Make a family that you won''t regret."

    In an instant, Aurus'' mind went into overdrive as he tried to find the hidden meaning within that statement. Although he knew that the Goddess of Kinship was focused more on trust and family, he couldn''t help but think about it the other way.

    ''How do branches do it? Can we even do it at all?''

    Without a doubt, Aurus became flustered. He was only 16, a virgin that has only dreamt of doing it. Herellia, on the other hand, was originally a stick that was granted a soul by the Goddess of Kinship so she really didn''t see any hidden meaning in the statement.

    "How about you? Why did the Goddess of Reincarnation choose you?" Not minding Aurus'' current emotion, she asked.

    "Ah! Eh..." Aurus calmed down and noticed that she interpreted the statement as an innocent one, only he interpreted it in another way. Lightly coughing, he then exined his circumstances, making Herellia the first one to know his secret.

    "I haven''t said this to anyone yet, so you''ll be the first one to know of it. Can I trust you to keep it a secret?" Aurus started off with a statement that questioned whether Herellia was trustable or not?

    "I swear on my xylem and phloem that I would not spread this secret. Ever." Of course, Herellia didn''t disappoint by agreeing to keep it a secret.

    Letting out a short sigh of relief, Aurus then started to tell his story.

    "Before I was even in this state, I was a human from another world. In other words, I was already an Animate being that was sentient and intelligent. Unknowingly, a bolt of lightning struck the ce where I was living and pretty much burned my body into charred bits, with only my soul left."

    "As I pondered on what I was going to do, a goddess happened to notice my soul and give me the greatest gift of a lifetime, that was...to live a second life."

    "She gave me two choices, one was to live as a human again while the other was to live as a stick. It''s quite obvious as to what I chose. I don''t know why I chose it, but I don''t regret it at all."

    "I still feel like I should repay her somehow." Unknowingly, a mncholic yet happy aura was being exuded by Aurus, letting Herellia know what he felt. Herellia then stopped floating and went closer to Aurus, saying, "I apologize for asking you why you were chosen. It feels like a sad story to me."

    "Don''t worry, it has already been a long time since that passed...well, a long time for a stick at least," Aurus did not mind telling her as it allowed them to get a bit closer to one another. Continuing to roll, he then asked, "I would like to ask though, why did you pick the Blood Belhazard ss?"

    Of course, after apologizing to Herellia, she began to float once more. Hearing Aurus'' question, she answered, "The Goddess of Kinship says that blood runs through the family. So why not pick a ss that has something to do with blood?"

    "Ah..." Although he didn''t get it, Aurus nodded his head and continued to roll onwards as they got closer and closer to the ce within Aurus'' memories.

    While rolling, Aurus decided to make use of this free time to raise his most important skill, his Spell Core. Watching Herellia fight a while ago made him think that he should get stronger fast.

    ...

    A few hours pass and Aurus and Herellia were only around 200 meters away from the ce within Aurus'' memories that held the two skills he needed.

    At this moment, Aurus was conjuring a magic circle within the Spell Core before shooting a condensed ball of energy towards the sky before it bursted with an extremely luminous glow, looking like pure white fireworks.

    Ding!

    Aurus instantly became ecstatic after hearing that notification sound as he knew that his hard work had finally paid off. Without dilly-dallying, he opened the notification screen and looked at it.

    ''[Low Spirit Spell Core (Wind Variant)] has leveled up twice.''

    ''[Low Spirit Spell Core (Wind Variant)] has reached the MAX level.''

    ''[Low Spirit Spell Core (Wind Variant)] has met the necessary requirements and is ready to evolve.''

    Seeing that Herellia was still looking ahead at their path, Aurus thenmanded the system in his mind...

    "Evolve [Low Spirit Spell Core (Wind Variant)]."

 Chapter 40 - A Feeling Of Freedom

    "Evolve [Low Spirit Spell Core (Wind Variant)]."

    Ding!

    Not being a system that dyed anything anymore, the system instantly popped a screen in front of Aurus'' field of vision.

    ''[Low Spirit Spell Core (Wind Variant)] has been evolved to [Middle-Low Spirit Spell Core (Wind Variant)].''

    Seeing that the evolution was sessful, Aurus removed the screen in front of his field of vision and noticed that there was a small screen on the far right of his field of vision. He didn''t know when it popped up but he checked it anyway, only to be slightly surprised.

    ''[Supreme Purity Spiritas SP Vessel] has leveled up thrice.''

    ''[Condensed Spirit Energy Core (Wind Variant)] has leveled up twice.''

    ''[Condensed Spirit Energy Core (Wind Variant)] has reached the MAX level.''

    ''[Condensed Spirit Energy Core (Wind Variant)] has met the necessary requirements and is ready to evolve.''

    For a bit, he was dumbfounded as to when these two skills leveled up, only to remember that these skills level up whenever SP is used. Continuing to roll, hemanded the system through his thoughts. "Evolve [Condensed Spirit Energy Core] through the option of purer energy."

    Of course, he knew what the choices were for skills that were rted to SP storage. It would always be purity, storage size, and recovery speed. Since he already chose the route to pursue the highest degree attainable for SP, he didn''t hesitate to choose the same option for the Spirit Energy Core.

    Ding!

    ''[Condensed Spirit Energy Core (Wind Variant)] has been evolved to [Purified Spirit Energy Core (Wind Variant)].''

    With that taken care of, he then checked the details of the newly evolved Spell Core. The first thing that caught his eye was the increased amount of damage his skills would deal. Before he evolved it, that amount was 10%, after evolving it, it increased to 15%.

    The next thing that caught his eye were the three spells that were newly added to his spell repertoire...well, a new spell thanks to the skill evolution and two spells that came from leveling his Low Spirit Spell Core to the max level.

    But only the former caught his eye as it was a shortcut to his dream for movement. Although it onlysted a short time, it still allowed to savor the feeling of being free.

    Thanks to the evolution of the Spirit Energy Core that halved the SP cost of all his skills and spells, Aurus was able to conjure the magic circle for this spell at the cost of 100 SP, less than one-third of maximum SP amount.

    Whoosh!

    Herellia, who was still looking in front of their path, suddenly heard a gust of wind blow just a few meters beside her and turned her field of vision around to face the direction of the sound, only to be shocked.

    Aurus, whom she thought was only able to roll on the ground...was actually hovering! Although it was not at a level that could be considered true flying, it still allowed him to move at a speed unlike before.

    Aurus looked at Herellia and gave off a cheery aura as he said, "Looks like we can get to the ce faster than usual."

    "What?" Herellia was definitely confused. She didn''t know if Aurus was hiding tricks up his sleeve or something, but when she sensed the cheery aura exuded by him, he knew that it was sincere happiness rather than a sneering one. "H-How?"

    "I just evolved my Spell Core and it gave me ess to Lower Level 1 spells, greatly superior to Higher Level 0 spells if you ask me," Aurus replied. "Just a bit more and I can be on par with Horell in terms of spells. Haha."

    When Herellia heard Aurus'' answer, a memory of Horell flying around the hall of their alliance all of a sudden was imprinted in her mind. To her who was not a mage, it was definitely exhrating to finally evolve her movement skill to allow flight.

    "I see," Herellia didn''t get angry at Aurus since she knew that Aurus worked hard to evolve his Spell Core to the stage where he could fly for a short moment. She then asked, "Is it simr to the [Hover] skill Horell unlocked when he evolved his Spell Core?"

    Continuing to savor the feeling of flight, Aurus then said, "Well...it does have the word ''Hover'' attached to it, but I''d say it''s better."

    "What do you mean by it being better? What is the spell''s full name?"

    "[Gale Hover]."

    ________

    [Gale Hover]

    One of the most basic Lower Level 1 spells learned by a mage, allowing them to move at higher speeds thanks to their body slightly floating above the ground, reducing friction. Onlysts for 5 minutes.

    > Movement speed is boosted by 100% for the duration of the spell

    > Movement speed is further boosted by 50% due to reduced friction

    SP Cost: 100 SP

    Cooldown: 10 minutes

    ________

    After replying to Herellia''s question, Aurus then looked ahead of them as he tried to remember the exact ce of where the skills were located. After a few minutes of recollection, he then asked Herellia to follow him as they flew through the air, arriving at the ce not long after.

    "Haah...if only [Tempest Burst] wasn''t on cooldown."

    ...

    "Here we are, the ce where we could get the skills." Landing safely on a nearby t ground, Aurus looked at Herellia and said this statement.

    "This ce?" Herellia didn''t know what she would do. She wondered if she wouldugh at his words or hit him hard enough to teach him a lesson. Why?

    The ce in front of them was barren. Herellia had this belief that a ce with skills would most likely be inside an abandoned building or a secret temple, but there was none of that in front of them. Only unstable walls and piles of rubble could be seen.

    "Are you serious, Aurus?" Herellia looked at Aurus, now with a gaze filled with slight distrust.

    Aurus did not mind this and said, "I am. Anyways, we aren''t at the exact ce yet but I''ll tell you something before we get there."

    "Once we arrive at the ce, make sure to chant these words to enter the ce. I will only say it twice so better listen well," Aurus looked at Herellia for a bit and exuded a serious aura, letting Herellia know that he was not joking.

    Herellia let out an affirmative aura afterwards, letting Aurus know that she was listening.

    "Here is the chant."

    "Holos Miselus Maximus. Tetraholos Inheras Singulus."

    "I''ll repeat, Holos Miselus Maximus. Tetraholos Inheras Singulus."

    After repeating it twice, Herellia felt that she was listening to gibberish that didn''t make sense. Feeling that she was still being duped, she asked, "What is this chant?"

    Aurus looked at Herellia for a bit before continuing to roll at a certain direction.

    "The entrance to the Tempest Inheritance."

    ...

    With Mira casting [Fly] and [Child of the Wind] on her and Artan''s body, they were able to traverse the 1.5 kilometer distance that separated them from the Spiritas within a couple of hours. Now you may ask, why did it take them a long time to traverse that distance while it could only be traversed within a few minutes?

    Well the answer to that is...the difficulty of traversing the ruin itself. The Tempest Ruin is located at the center of the Tempest Cliff, where the strongest and most tempestuous winds are located. Combined with the multiple amounts of tall yet unstable walls that could fall off with just a strong gust of wind, it would definitely take them a long while to traverse that distance since not only were they flying against the wind, they also tried to dodge the walls.

    Not to mention, with their strong presences, beasts of the lower ranks jumped out at them as they wanted to eat the two of them, prompting them to retaliate and kill them off.

    Once they reached the ce where the red dotst blinked, Artan couldn''t help but let out a sigh of relief as he said, "Finally. We''re at the ce where that Spiritas is. Mira, could you use your detection skill and see if the Spiritas is here?"

    Mira tilted her head for a bit in confusion and said, "My detection skill only works on living, breathing beings. How could I detect a Spiritas that''s basically non-living? You have the tracking crystal Dane gave you, right? Why don''t you use that?"

    pping his forehead, Artan rummaged through his pockets and fished out the crystal that he used outside the Tempest Ruin a while ago to check the Spiritas'' whereabouts.

    At first, the red dot within the crystal furiously blinked at the ce where they stood. Then, a few secondster, it instantly vanished without a trace.

    "Eh?" Artan was shocked. Mira saw Artan''s expression and hurriedly asked, "What''s wrong?"

    "T-T-The Spiritas is gone."

 Chapter 41 - Tempest Inheritance

    Following Aurus, Herellia slightly hovered above the ground as she looked at the surroundings. She couldn''t really see what was so unique about the ce they were currently in. Remembering the chant that Aurus said a while ago, she asked, "Does this chant really work?"

    Aurus, who was now rolling since the [Gale Hover] spell was on cooldown, let out an affirmative aura as he replied, "It does."

    With the help of his memories from his previous life, he was able to remember a forum post about obtaining these skills within the Tempest Cliff, which he always used everytime he made a new ount for another ss, allowing him to breeze through early game content without much difficulty. Of course, with him doing it multiple times, he knew the ce like the back of his hand.

    "How are you so sure about that?" Herellia couldn''t help but suspect that Aurus was just messing with her. But this notion was dispelled once more as he let out an aura that made Herellia feel that Aurus was slightly irritated at her questions.

    "You know, you can leave if you want to. You''re the one who wanted toe with me and I''m here giving you ess to the ce for free. If you don''t want it then just leave. I still have more skills to obtain afterwards."

    At this moment, Aurus'' true personality was revealed. A personality that was akin to talking to a wall that was extremely cold while letting out an aura of seriousness and terror every second, this was what Aurus'' aura wasparable to.

    Thinking about it, Herellia knew that what he said was right. It was her that forced Aurus to be beside her as he hunted skills as she wanted to amass skills for the alliance. Now that she was being skeptic at Aurus'' knowledge, she knew that she still had more to improve in terms of being an alliance leader.

    Although distrust could happen every once in a while, being an alliance meant that you had to trust a branch''s or a tree''s words, especially so if they''re serious.

    After asking the previous question, Herellia then went silent, allowing Aurus to tread towards the entrance in peace, taking around ten minutes to head towards the entrance of the Tempest Inheritance.

    ...

    "Here we are. The entry point." Aurus looked at the surroundings and noticed that it looked simr to the memories he had. A broken wall was to his right while to his left, a somewhat unstable wall stood. In his front and back, only piles of rubble could be seen. As for the floor...

    A faded green magic circle could be seen. Although it was faded, it still made Aurus appreciate theplexity of the magic circle, seeing how it almost touched the four things he noticed a while ago.

    "A magic circle of the 3rd level. If it was specialized in the Space element, it would already allow teleportation. As for this circle, it''s focused on the Wind element with a few hints of the Space element, allowing it to be the entrance to the Tempest Inheritance," Aurus couldn''t help but mutter as he tried to jog his memories about the multiple magic spells that a mage coulde across.

    Of course, he knew that the spells he could currently cast are only a small portion of the massive amounts of spells of different levels out there.

    Looking at Herellia for a bit, Aurus then started a conversation with her. "If you want to leave, then you are free to do so. If you still hold some doubts in what I say but don''t want to leave, good for you. I''ll be heading in first."

    Slowly rolling towards the center of the faded green magic circle, Aurus fell into a state of solemnity as the chant appeared in his mind. With each word of the whole chant enunciated smoothly, a hazy green glow started to appear around the magic circle.

    "Holos Miselus Maximus. Tetraholos Inheras Singulus."

    Whoosh!

    With the green glow getting more and more intense, the light gradually engulfed Aurus'' body until...

    Poof!

    Just like nothing happened, the faded green magic circle looked the same but with a small difference. Aurus was gone from Herellia''s sights.

    "Heh? It was actually true?" Herellia couldn''t help but feel guilty after realizing that Aurus was actually telling the truth. Slowly rolling towards the center of the magic circle, she muttered, "I should pay him back after this."

    "Holos Miselus Maximus. Tetraholos Inheras Singulus."

    Whoosh!

    And just like that, the two of them disappeared in the face of the world of Erudinia.

    ...

    Zoop!

    After a few seconds of pitch ck darkness, Aurus was greeted by an extremely wide hall that had its ceiling covered in vines. As for the walls and the floor, it looked like it was made of polished green jade as a daft breeze blew within the hall.

    Looking at the hall that was familiar to him, Aurus couldn''t help but shout out inwardly, "Haha! To think that this world is extremely simr to Infinite Stick Evolution...that means I can use the knowledge I have from the game to its fullest!"

    As he was basking in the excitement of realizing the benefits of his reincarnation, a disembodied voice resounded throughout the hall as it said, "To truly enter the Tempest Inheritance, you must have a skill rted to the Wind element. The more skills you have rted to the Wind element, the harder the trials are but the rewards are far greater."

    Hearing this voice, Aurus suddenly snapped back to reality as he stayed in his ce for a short while as he felt a light beam scan his body. If it were to bepared to something, it would be simr to a photocopier scanning files, easily copying the information ced on the file.

    After the scan, the disembodied voice continued to speak.

    "Inheritor''s amount of wind skills are 4. The difficulty of the trial has been upgraded from G grade to B grade. The number of trials the inheritor shall face are 4 trials."

    "The first trial, the Endurance Trial shall begin in five minutes. Suggesting the inheritor to prepare to counterattack at maximum power once the enemies attack."

    ...

    Whoosh!

    Just like Aurus, Herellia was brought into a hall that had vines on its ceiling while the walls were made of polished green jade. Once Aurus'' knowledge of the ce was proven to be true, Herellia felt confused. She didn''t know whether to leave this ce or continue on and apologize to Aurus afterwards. As she felt this feeling, a beam of light scanned her entire body as a disembodied voice started to speak afterwards, snapping Herellia back to her senses.

    "Inheritor''s amount of wind skills are 14. The difficulty of the trial has been upgraded from G grade to SS grade. The number of trials the inheritor has to face are 7 trials, the maximum amount of trials possible."

    "The first trial, the Illusion Trial shall begin in ten seconds. Suggesting the inheritor to steel their heart and considering everything they see as lies."

    "I wish the inheritor good luck."

    ...

    Artan and Mira continued to search around the area where the red dotst blinked within the crystal Dane gave them. It took them around half an hour before they finally gave up searching, lying beside a somewhat sturdy wall.

    "Now, do you think that paying you 5000 gold coins is an unfair deal from Dane''s side? Do you think he would give you that much money for just a simple search?" Mira, who looked at Artan with a smug expression, couldn''t help but say.

    "Bah. Although I want to give up on this mission, I really need a lot of gold coins at the moment so I just can''t stop midway," Artan looked at Mira with a frown on his face as he replied to her statement.

    "What are you going to do then? Stay here until we find a way to sense the Spiritas?" Mira joked afterwards, only to see Artan grab therge axe he carried on his back and started to swing it as he replied, "That''s exactly what I''m nning. In the meantime, I''ll train myself to get used to the harsh winds, who knows I might obtain a special skill from this ce." Artanughed afterwards.

    Mira looked at Artan like he was a madman before letting out a sigh and standing up as well. Grabbing her staff, she said, "You know what? I''ll go train as well. If I want to fly faster, I would either have to increase my affinity with the Wind element or learn Space element magic, where the former is easier."

    "You don''t mind that, right?" Mira looked at Artan who was continuously swinging his axe. Not long after, Artan looked at Mira and gave a cheerful smile. Mira then gave a light smile back before the two of them started to train within the Tempest Ruin, waiting for any sign of the Spiritas.

    But what they didn''t know was...

    Inside Artan''s pocket, the crystal Dane gave Artan. At one tip of the crystal...

    A red dot blinked.

 Chapter 42 - Endurance Trial

    "The first trial, the Endurance Trial shall begin in five minutes. Suggesting the inheritor to prepare to counterattack at maximum power once the enemies attack."

    Hearing this suggestion from the disembodied voice that resounded throughout the green jade hall, Aurus couldn''t help but say, "Well that''s fucking obvious."

    "[Spirit Energy Ascension]."

    Whoosh!

    In an instant, a good chunk of his SP was siphoned and transformed into a silver me that rose to a height of a few meters, covering Aurus'' body as it gradually turned more and more corporeal.

    Around two minutester, a notification screen appeared in front of Aurus'' field of vision as he was trying to guess on how the Endurance Trial, which was said by the disembodied voice, worked.

    Ding!

    ''[Spirit Energy Ascension] has leveled up.''

    ''The exchange of SP into power has reached its limit, boosting the user''s power by 120%''

    ''The necessary requirements have been met. The skill [Spirit Ascension] can be activated.''

    "Oh, it leveled up. Neat." Looking through the notification screen, he noticed that the skill he would use a lot has leveled up, allowing him to attack with more power. He then looked at thest statement written on the notification screen, mumbling to himself, "I should save this skill forter. I don''t even know how long this Endurance Trialsts."

    He didn''t know how much time he had left before the trial started, so he made sure to change half of his specialized Animas to recover HP, while the other half stayed the same, recovering his SP.

    Coincidentally, at the moment when he finished changing his specialized Animas, the disembodied voice started to speak once more.

    "The five minutes of preparation time is now up. The Endurance Trial shall now begin. There are ten waves of enemies, with each amount of enemy doubling every wave."

    "Please take note that the enemies the inheritor shall face might have obtained a small portion of the skills of the inheritor."

    Listening to thest statement given by the disembodied voice, Aurus couldn''t help but curse. "Well shit, this might be harder than I think."

    "Or is it easier?"

    Aurus believed in the saying ''Knowing the enemy is akin to winning 99% of the war'' or however it went. Since he would fight against himself, of course he knew how to fight against himself. He knew how powerful he was, with him being able to one shot kill an S-grade to bits. Can any other A-grade do that? Of course not. Only he could.

    "The first wave is starting," the disembodied voice said. Not long after, a branch that looked like him materialized in the middle of the hall, a few tens of meters away from where Aurus currently was.

    Looking at the branch that materialized out of thin air, hemanded the system to identify its stats and skills.

    Ding!

    ________

    [Aurus]

    Existence Level: Inanimate (B)

    Level: 3/5

    HP: 10/10

    MP: 25/25

    Stats:

    [Toughness]: 13

    [Thickness]: 11

    [Nut Hardness]: 17

    Skills:

    [Roll++ Lv. 1], [Infused Nut Shot Lv. 2]

    ________

    "Hm, it actually does have some of my skills," Aurus couldn''t help but say. "As for the stats, it''s pretty much natural that they''ve been boosted by a bit since it''s an enemy that''s designed to protect the inheritance."

    As Aurus was still talking to himself, a walnut infused with SP was shot towards where he was. Sensing that something wasing at him, Aurus snapped back to reality and dodged the walnut with ease. With his movement speed being over 270 meters per hour, how could he not dodge a slow walnut?

    "I should take time to raise my movement skillter," Aurus muttered as he transformed one of the floating Animas in his body into a Spirit Spear and shot it out towards the cloned Aurus.

    "[Spirit Spear: Denial]."

    Whoosh!

    Bang!

    With the help of his SP being inclined to the Wind element, and him having the [High Wind Affinity] skill, the Spirit Spear he shot darted through the space, easily piercing the cloned Aurus'' body. The cloned Aurus couldn''t even dodge it at all as it was just too fast for it.

    Poof!

    After having all of its HP drained, the cloned Aurus gradually turned into dust that spread into the air. Aurus looked at this dust and felt that it was gradually heading towards his way. After heading towards his way, the dust stuck to his body as a notification screen appeared in front of his field of vision.

    Ding!

    ''Wave 1 has been cleared.''

    ''Experience +10''

    ''1 Genesis Point has been obtained.''

    "Ah!'' Aurus couldn''t help but shout out. He didn''t expect to obtain a Genesis Point through this inheritance. In his memories, the only thing it rewarded was experience, allowing him to level up quickly. But to think that it gave Genesis Points?

    Genesis Points in ISE gave the yer ess to the Genesis Tree, which either held passive skills that allowed the yer to be stronger, or perhaps active skills that were extremely broken in their own right.

    "Well...I guess I can rush through the 5thyer of the Genesis Tree in one go if I also kill the boss of the Lesser Experience Haven," Aurus said to himself. That was his n all along, to gain Genesis Points in order to get ess to the Genesis Tree. The bosses of certain ces gave out Genesis Points, which the boss of the Lesser Experience Haven was also included.

    "I should also check out the Greater Experience Haven if I have the time." As Aurus was reforming his n to add the inheritance as a variable to his ns, the disembodied voice resounded out.

    "The second wave is starting."

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    In an instant, two clones of Aurus materialized out of thin air at the same ce the first cloned Aurus appeared. Giving the two clones a quick scan, they had the same stats and skills as the first cloned Aurus, allowing Aurus to rx a bit.

    Forming another Spirit Spear with a floating Anima, Aurus instantly had a question form in his mind. "So far, I''ve tried the Spirit Spear''s eptance and Depression and they haven''t disappointed me. As for Denial, I''ve used it just now but I don''t really know how effective it is since that Aurus was killed in one go."

    "Hence..."

    "I''ll just use the consecutive forms," Aurus decided to y around while the cloned Auruses didn''t really have any threat to him in the meantime.

    He remembered that using the five forms of the [Five Mncholy Spirit Spear] skill consecutively would gradually allow the skill to grow stronger and stronger. Now, he was going to try it out.

    Whoosh!

    "[Spirit Spear: Anger]."

    Bang! Bang!

    Rather than killing off a single clone, the Spirit Spear Aurus shot out split off into two, easily killing the two at once.

    "Eh?" Aurus didn''t know how that happened...only for a notification screen to pop up.

    Ding!

    ''[Spirit Spear: Anger] has been used after [Spirit Spear: Denial], allowing the former to have its properties boosted.''

    ''[Spirit Spear: Anger] has been upgraded to [Spirit Spear: Rage], turning into a skill that hits at most 5 enemies with a 100% hit rate.''

    ''Note that this upgraded form only activates once [Spirit Spear: Denial] is used before [Spirit Spear: Anger]. If not, the normal effects of [Spirit Spear: Anger] apply.''

    ...

    In another green jade hall...

    "The first trial, the Illusion Trial shall begin in ten seconds. Suggesting the inheritor to steel their heart and considering everything they see as lies."

    "I wish the inheritor good luck."

    Herellia, who heard the disembodied voice, was surprised to hear a voicee from nowhere as she snapped herself back to reality.

    "Eh? An illusion trial? What''s an illusion?" Herellia couldn''t help but ask. Although she had been an X-grade Inanimate for over a year now and had even learned secrets from the Animates through a ce she discovered, but she still didn''t know what an illusion was.

    While she was still troubling himself by trying to figure out what an illusion was, the disembodied voice resounded out once again.

    "The ten seconds of preparation time is over. The Illusion Trial shall now begin. The inheritor shall go through ten illusion worlds, where the inheritor must break through each illusion one by one."

    "Of course, the difficulty of breaking through the illusion worlds grow harder and harder as each world is broken."

    "The first world, Nihility, has been casted."

    While the influx of words passed through Herellia''s sense of hearing, her field of vision was instantly taken over by an extremely pitch ck darkness that could even be said to be equivalent to the darkness chuunibyous feel in their hearts.

    Looking around her, Herellia tried to move around and noticed that she could, but whatever she did, she had no gauge as to how far she went as everything around her was pitch ck.

    Setting the problem of what an illusion was aside, she let out a sigh and said to herself, "I should break from this illusion thingy first."

    "Then, I''ll quit this inheritance thingy and apologize to Aurus."

 Chapter 43 - Insanity

    "Hoh?" Aurus couldn''t help but be surprised after seeing that the next form of the Spirit Spear was upgraded thanks to activating the spear forms from the first to the next.

    Of course, before he started to actively use the Spirit Spear back then when he evolved it, he read through the five basic forms of the Spirit Spear.

    The first form, Denial, was a form that was the second strongest out of all the forms, being behind eptance. But what it gave in exchange was that the damage received by the enemy would increase by a certain amount for a short while.

    The next form, Anger, was a form that was simr to the Law form of the [Nut Trident Trial]. It had a 100% hit rate and it followed the enemy wherever it went.

    As for the next form after Anger, which was Bargaining, was a form that was simr to the Sanction form of the [Nut Trident Triad], being able to shoot a lot of Spirit Spears within a short span of time.

    The fourth form, Depression, was a form that focused on inflicting debuffs to the enemy. These debuffs are reduced attack power and reduced movement speed specfically.

    The fifth and final form, eptance, was a form that dealt the highest damagepared to all of the other four forms. Even though the damage dealt is already high, it grows stronger as the branch grows stronger in terms of SP amount.

    Knowing the basic uses of these forms, he knew which form to use at an opponent and when to use it. But most of the time, it just ends up with him using the eptance form to get over with it at a quick speed.

    "I wonder what the upgraded third form would be," Aurus muttered to himself as the two clones that he killed disintegrated into dust. This dust then headed towards Aurus'' body, which was absorbed by his body in an instant.

    Ding!

    ''Wave 2 has been cleared.''

    ''Experience +20''

    ''1 Genesis Point has been obtained.''

    "Aww." After reading through the notifications he received, he noticed that he didn''t get an additional Genesis Point after clearing the second wave. He thought that, since the number of enemies he needed to kill for every wave multiplied, the amount he would get would multiply as well.

    Letting out an understanding sigh, he muttered to himself, "Then again, if that was the case, I would be able to reach the 30thyer of the Genesis Tree in time."

    It only took an instant for the disembodied voice to talk once more as four clones that had the same stats as the previous clones appeared in the center of the green jade hall.

    "The third wave is starting."

    Whoosh!

    In an instant, four walnuts that were infused with SP headed towards Aurus'' body as they wanted to corner him with these shots, forcing him to take damage.

    From their perspective, it was a genius idea that would definitely seed if they were fighting against a branch of the same level.

    Sadly, Aurus was a monster in his own right.

    "[Spirit Wind Bolt]."

    Whoosh!

    Bang! Bang! Bang! Bang!

    Conjuring a crude magic circle within his Spell Core that shot out an energy bolt, he then controlled this energy bolt to pierce through the four walnuts, thus negating the damage he would possibly receive.

    Surprisingly, the energy bolt still didn''t dissipate after piercing through the four walnuts. With that, Aurus decided to just control the energy bolt to head towards one of the clones.

    Whoosh!

    Even though the clone that Aurus aimed for tried to dodge, the sheer speed of the energy bolt was vastly superior to its movement speed, killing the clone in one shot.

    Ding!

    Unexpectedly, a notification screen appeared in front of Aurus'' field of vision, forcing him to read the words written on the screen. Not long after, he couldn''t help but curse out.

    "Fuck."

    ''The third form of the Spirit Spear, Bargaining, has not been used after the second form, Anger. Instead, a foreign skill was used.''

    ''The chain has been broken. User must start all over to fully exhibit the true prowess of the Spirit Spear.''

    "Haah...you should''ve said so earlier." Aurus couldn''t help butin at the system as he looked at the three remaining clones within the green jade hall.

    Bang! Bang! Bang!

    Without caring about what Aurus felt, the three clones shot out another round of walnuts towards Aurus, not even feeling any despair from seeing theirpatriot die. Well it was a given, they were clones created by the inheritance. They were meant to die.

    Aurus, on the other hand, saw these walnuts as a provocation and couldn''t help but let out an aura filled with killing intent as he grimly smiled inwardly. "Hoh? You still attack me even though you know I''m pissed?"

    "How bold of you guys."

    "[Spirit Wind Bolt]."

    Bang! Bang! Bang!

    With the cooldown of the spell being reduced thanks to the notifications and other happenings before casting the spell, he was able to destroy the walnuts that were headed for him once more and decided to aim the energy bolt towards the ground.

    Fwoosh!

    Rather than making a crater on the floor, the energy bolt dissipated into thin air as the energy stored within it was used up.

    Aurus didn''t waste his time as he formed two Spirit Spears using his floating Animas, shooting the first Spirit Spear towards one clone as he chanted, "[Spirit Spear: Denial]."

    Bang!

    Without any difficulty, the Spirit Spear easily pierced through the clone and kill it in one shot, just like the fate of the clone that was killed before it.

    Not long after shooting out the first spear, he then shot out the second Spirit Spear towards one of the two remaining clones. Unsurprisingly, in the middle of its trajectory, the Spirit Spear split off into two as it killed the two remaining clones at the same time.

    "[Spirit Spear: Anger]."

    Bang! Bang!

    Ding!

    ''[Spirit Spear: Anger] has been upgraded to [Spirit Spear: Rage].''

    Seeing that he was back to where he previously was, Aurus let out a small sigh as he waited for the next wave of enemies toe at him.

    "Well that wave was incredibly fast," Aurus couldn''t help but mutter to himself.

    Contrary to what Aurus sees, the speed of the fight was not actually that fast at all. The attack speed of the branches were reliant on their movement speed, which was sped up by 60 times in order to reduce the amount of time between fights. Nheless, the fights between branches and trees were still slow.

    Even for Aurus who had a movement speed of 270 meters per hour, he would have slight difficulty in dodging attacks from branches and trees of the same grade as they almost had the same movement speed. Only when he activated his multiple buffs was he able to fight against S-grades.

    Ding!

    ''Wave 3 has been cleared.''

    ''Experience +40''

    ''1 Genesis Point has been obtained.''

    Checking his status screen while he still had the time, he noticed that he only need around 250 XP to fully max his current grade.

    "Then again, I''ll be staying in this form for a while to get better evolutions," Aurus said to himself as he checked his status screen.

    Not long after, the disembodied voice resounded throughout the hall, reminding Aurus about the next wave of enemies he would face.

    "The fourth wave is starting."

    Whoosh!

    In an instant, eight clones appeared in the center of the green jade hall. As Aurus was looking at the clones to see if the clones he would face this round had the same stats as the previous clones he fought against, only to see a clone that looked stronger than the clones he had faced before.

    "Identify."

    Ding!

    ________

    [Aurus]

    Existence Level: Inanimate (A)

    Level: 4/10

    HP: 105/105

    SP: 280/280

    Stats:

    [Tenacity]: 17

    [Vitality]: 22

    [Spirit]: 28

    Skills:

    [Roll++ Lv. 9], [Nut Trident Triad Lv. 8], [Wind Affinity Lv. 2], [Spirit Channeling Lv. 2]

    ________

    "Hm. The stat this time is closer to my current form. Even the appearance is somewhat close to what I currently look like," Aurus couldn''t help but say. The stronger clone glowed a faint green light as it exuded an aura that was slightly simr to Aurus'' aura.

    "As for the skills though, it''s extremelycking." Aurus couldn''t help but chuckle after seeing this. "Nheless, you''re still weak in front of me."

    "I won''t fuck up this time."

    Manifesting a Spirit Spear using a floating Anima, he shot it towards the strong clone as he chanted, "[Spirit Spear: Bargaining]!"

    Whoosh!

    The Spirit Spear rapidly darted towards the strong clone, only for it to incessantly multiply in number as it gradually got closer and closer to the strong clone.

    And then...

    Poof!

    It disappeared.

    "Eh?" Aurus was dumbfounded. Although he made sure to consecutively use the forms, the fact that his attack disappearing before it even the enemy was unheard of.

    But then...

    Weeenngggg...

    Aurus instantly heard a buzzing sounde from the ceiling of the green jade hall and looked upwards, only to gasp in shock.

    The Spirit Spear he shot was teleported to the ceiling of the hall, including the cloned Spirit Spears as they glowed a faint green before charging downwards towards the eight clones as if they were bombs dropped off from a bomber ne.

    Ding!

    ''[Spirit Spear: Bargaining] has been used after [Spirit Spear: Anger], allowing the former''s properties to be boosted.''

    ''[Spirit Spear: Bargaining] has been upgraded to [Spirit Spear: Insanity], turning into a skill that hits every enemy within a certain radius.''

 Chapter 44 - Absurd Upgrades

    Ding!

    With the fourth wave of enemies being killed without any difficulty thanks to the upgraded form of Bargaining, the dust that was transformed from the bodies of the clones Aurus killed gradually headed towards his body before being absorbed as a notification screen appeared in front of his field of vision.

    ''Wave 4 has been cleared.''

    ''Experience +80''

    ''2 Genesis Points have been obtained.''

    After being shocked with the fact that the upgraded form of Bargaining was extremely destructive and useful, Aurus was shocked once more as he found out that the amount of Genesis Points he obtained was increased by 1.

    "Now where did this extra Genesis Pointe from?" Aurus asked himself. Pondering for a bit, he tried to remember what he did differently and noticed that there wasn''t anything different to what he was doing at all.

    With that being the only thing that came to mind from his side, he then thought about the enemies he faced in the fourth wave, remembering that there was a new type of enemy.

    "Maybe it has something to do with the varieties of enemies I face against." With the hypothesis being kept in mind, Aurus looked at the center of the green jade hall as the disembodied voice resounded through the hall.

    "The fifth wave is starting."

    Whoosh!

    With the number of enemies being doubled every wave, he was now facing against 16 clones of himself at the same time.

    Looking at the different types of enemies he had in the current wave, he noticed that there were now two strong clones of himself. With that, he noticed that every time a certain type of clone reaches a certain threshold, a new type of clone would be released.

    "I''ll have to test if my hypothesis is true or not though." As Aurus was still thinking of his hypothesis, a bombardment of 14 walnuts headed towards his way, with two tridents made from walnuts were behind the 14 walnuts, exuding a feeling that they were unavoidable.

    "Welp, this is going to be hard to dodge," Aurus said to himself as he looked at the sixteen shotsing at him. Without any choice, he transformed a floating Anima into a Spirit Spear and shot it out towards the sixteen clones as he said, "Then let''s not dodge it and kill them before the shots hit me."

    "[Spirit Spear: Depression]."

    Whoosh!

    Supported by Aurus'' high movement speed, the speed at which the spear reached the clones was considerably faster than the speed of the shots the clones shot out, not even allowing to be on guard.

    In the midst of its flight, the Spirit Spear gradually became darker in color as it slowly transformed into a spherical shape. Once it collided with one of the clones'' bodies, it had alreadypressed its shape into a tiny bead that was even smaller than the tip of a finger.

    Aurus looked at this with interest. If the upgraded form before this made the Spirit Spear disappear before bombarding the clones with incessant attacks? How about this current form where the Spirit Spear transformed into a tiny dark sphere?

    Even though he expected something special to happen, he wasn''t prepared for what happened next.

    The tiny dark sphere that was previously the Spirit Spear, embedded itself into the body of the clone it hit before...

    Exploding.

    Bang!

    In an instant, the tiny dark sphere exploded within the clone''s body as a domain that was pitch ck in color covered the other clones'' bodies as they gradually lost health and died under the effects of this domain.

    "..." Aurus was at a loss for words. With each form being used after the previous one, the effects of the form that was upgraded afterwards grew more and more crazy in effect.

    Ding!

    In the midst of this situation where the dark domain engulfed the clones'' bodies, a notification screen appeared in front of Aurus'' field of vision.

    ''[Spirit Spear: Depression] has been used after [Spirit Spear: Bargaining], allowing the former''s properties to be boosted.''

    ''[Spirit Spear: Depression] has been upgraded to [Spirit Spear: Despair], turning into a skill that casts a domain around a certain radius where the enemies are greatly suppressed while the user that casted the skill has its stats greatly boosted. Lasts for 5 seconds.''

    "A domain type skill..." Aurus couldn''t help but mutter softly. As he looked at the domain he made in front of him, there was no semnce of a domain whatsoever.

    To Aurus, the domain looked like a killing chamber! A killing chamber where the enemies that are inside the killing chamber would have a sentence that equaled to certain death!

    Not long after the clones'' death, the domain that covered their bodies dissipated into thin air as the dust transformed from their bodies instantly darted towards Aurus'' body as the usual notification screen he saw appeared in front of his field of vision.

    Ding!

    ''Wave 5 has been cleared.''

    ''Experience +160''

    ''2 Genesis Points have been obtained.''

    While Aurus was looking at the notification screen that came out after every wave, another notification screen appeared behind the notification screen he was reading, prompting to move the current notification screen away and look at the other notification screen with surprise.

    Ding!

    ''Congrattions! Aurus has leveled up.''

    ''Aurus has reached the MAX level.''

    ''Aurus has not yet met the necessary requirements to evolve.''

    At first, he was ecstatic to see that he had finally reached the maximum level for his current grade as he only needed to grind his skills in order to obtain a better evolution. But after reading the final statement, he saw that he still needed to do something else.

    "Huh? Why can''t I evolve?" Aurus thought to himself. After a while, he realized what he was missing. "Ah. Life and Will points."

    Indeed, the points that could be exchanged for temporary power were also the requirements needed in order to evolve. For Saplings, it was Life points. For Branch Formosii, it was Will points.

    "I''ll have to grind some Life and Will pointster," Aurus muttered as the disembodied voice started to talk again.

    "The sixth wave is starting."

    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!

    In an instant, 32 clones where 4 of them were strong clones while 28 of them were the normal clones, appeared in the center of the green jade hall, positioning themselves towards Aurus'' direction as they were about to fire their nut tridents and walnuts.

    "Oh no, you don''t! I''ll go first!" Aurus couldn''t help but shout as he knew that with his current movement speed, he would be cornered by all of the tridents and walnuts. He could use his movement speed boosting skills and spells, but he wanted to use them only for strong enemies, which he had a feeling that would pop up next round.

    Hastily forming a Spirit Spear, he shot it out towards one of the strong clones as he shouted, "[Spirit Spear: eptance]."

    Whoosh!

    The Spirit Spear was shot out like normal, darting towards the direction of one of the strong clones as they were still unaware of the Spirit Spear heading towards them.

    At that instant.

    Weeeennngggg...

    The Spirit Spear froze in ce. The clones also froze in ce as well, as if...everyone was stuck in time.

    Aurus, who was not affected by this, looked at this weird situation and felt a looming destructive aura gradually envelop all of the clones. Not long after, like they were not there in the first ce, the bodies of the clones disappeared into thin air as any remnant of the clones being there wasn''t even left behind.

    Ding!

    ''[Spirit Spear: eptance] has been used after [Spirit Spear: Depression], allowing the former''s properties to be boosted.''

    ''[Spirit Spear: eptance] has been upgraded to [Spirit Spear: Truth], turning into a skill that attacks every enemy seen by the user and deals damage that is equivalent to 25 times of the user''s Attack stat (multiplier increases as the level of the skill is increased).''

    ...

    On another green jade hall.

    Herellia finally broke through the second illusion world after wasting multiple minutes finding the exit. As a branch at heart, she didn''t know the meaning of being mentally exhausted, using her soul to the limit as she continued to find the exit to each illusion world using logical and rational thinking, and of course, brute force.

    Being a leader of an alliance, one must not only be the strongest, one must also be wise.

    Letting out a sigh of relief as she saw the green jade hall for the first time, she couldn''t help butin about her trial. "This illusion thingy is definitely confusing. It forces me to use all of my soul to think up of ways to escape."

    With herining about the difficulty of her trial, she couldn''t help but think about Aurus and how he was faring. "I wonder how far Aurus has gone in his trial."

    While thinking about Aurus, the disembodied voice that didn''t care about what Herellia felt, continued to resound throughout the green jade hall.

    "The third world, Longevity, is now being casted."

    Remembering that there were still 7 more things like these after this one, Herellia finally snapped and couldn''t help but say as she sighed.

    "Ah shit, here we go again."

 Chapter 45 - A Better Aurus

    "..." Aurus was at a loss for words after seeing the upgraded form of what was possibly his hardest hitting skill up to date. Trying toprehend what just happened, Aurus looked at the center of the hall as dust gradually materialized in the center of the hall before heading towards Aurus'' way to be absorbed.

    Ding!

    ''Wave 6 has been cleared.''

    ''Experience +320''

    ''2 Genesis Points have been obtained.''

    Not minding the notification screen that popped up in front of his field of vision, Aurus tried to remember what happened once the final form was shot out.

    He remembered that he shot it out like normal, just like any other Spirit Spear. At the next instant though, the Spirit Spear froze in ce, as if it was stuck in time.

    And then not long after that, all of the enemies instantly disappeared without a trace as they froze in ce as well.

    No matter how many times Aurus tried to understand how the upgraded final form worms, he couldn''t get how the Spirit Spear that was stuck in ce, was able to kill all of the enemies with one hit.

    In the end, Aurus let out a sigh and said to himself, "You know what? Why should I bother with this? I''m going to evolve this skill sooner orter anyway." After saying that, the disembodied voice resounded throughout the hall, notifying Aurus of the next wave.

    "The seventh wave is starting. Please proceed with caution."

    "Eh?" Aurus couldn''t help but notice the disembodied voice say another sentence after announcing the next wave. Seeing that the disembodied voice had the heart to warn him of the dangers of the next wave, Aurus didn''t hesitate to use [High Spirit Channeling].

    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!

    Transforming the other specialized Animas he had that recovered SP into a specialized Anima that recovered SP, Aurus'' SP bar that waspletely drained of its content thanks to him using the eptance form, was gradually being filled at a fast rate as the next wave of enemies materialized.

    Whoosh!

    In an instant, 64 enemies appeared in the center of the green jade hall, forming a circle of branches that was around five meters in radius. On the edge of this circle were the first type of clones that Aurus encountered. In the inner portion of this circle, the stronger clones that Aurus didn''t think were really strong were seen. As for the center though...

    In the midst of him recovering his SP, he couldn''t help but notice the branch in the center that looked like him but had an aura that felt like it was stronger than him.

    Ding!

    ''[High Spirit Channeling] has leveled up.''

    ''[High Spirit Channeling] has reached the MAX level.''

    ''[High Spirit Channeling] has met the necessary requirements and is ready to evolve.''

    While staring at the new branch, this notification screen popped up in front of his field of vision, prompting him to ignore the notification screen and move it away and then identify the new branch as he deactivated the [High Spirit Channeling] skill.

    Ding!

    ________

    [Aurus]

    Existence Level: Inanimate (S)

    Level: 4/20

    HP: 510/510

    MP: 735/735

    Stats:

    [Fortitude]: 57

    [True Spirit]: 62

    [Energy]: 73

    Skills:

    [Tempestuous Spiritas Glide Lv. 6], [Nut Trident Triad Lv. MAX], [Middle-Low Spirit Spell Core (Wind Variant) Lv. 4], [Wind Affinity Lv. MAX], [Spirit Energy Sacrifice Lv. 3]

    ________

    "..." Aurus was dumbfounded for a bit as he changed half of his specialized Animas to recover SP. He blinked a few times as he couldn''t believe what he was seeing. After seeing that this branch was already doing something simr to what Aurus by igniting a silver me around its body, it seemed that Aurus wasn''t hallucinating at all.

    "Well shit," Aurus couldn''t help but say as he looked at the huge amount of branches he had to currently face. While thinking of his next move, the branches moved first, shooting out 56 walnuts and 7 tridents, totaling to a number of 63 shots that Aurus would have to dodge if he did not want to get injured.

    "[Spirit Wind Bolt]!" Without hesitation, Aurus shot out an energy bolt that pierced through 24 walnuts and denied them of their ess to colliding with his body. As for the 39 remaining shots, Aurus transformed a floating Anima into a Spirit Spear and used [Spirit Spear: Bargaining] to destroy the shots before it could even get to him.

    Bang! Bang! Bang!

    With all of the shots destroyed, Aurus was now going to retaliate with his own skill...only to be blocked by the strongest branch out of all the clones he had face.

    Whoosh!

    The strong branch was basically an upgrade of Aurus, while also being a downgrade on some. Its movement speed was higher than Aurus'' movement speed, including its Spell Core, but for the others, it was weaker than Aurus'' skills.

    Nheless, the attack that the really strong clone shot out was a Spirit Wind Bolt that travelled at a high speed.

    Looking at the energy bolt that was heading towards his way, Aurus did not hesitate to use his [Gale Hover] spell and dodge the bolt as he headed towards the center of the clone circle.

    Whoosh!

    Since the 10 minute cooldown was already gone earlier, with him facing against an enemy that was now somewhat hard to face against, Aurus did not hesitate to use his spell.

    As for [Tempest Burst] though...

    "Only when I meet an enemy that deserves it do I use it," Aurus muttered to himself as he was now floating above the clones, conjuring an extremely clean magic circle within his Spell Core as he infused more and more SP into it, bringing an aura of intense destruction out and about.

    Whoosh! Swoosh!

    The sound of a windstorm could be heard through the green jade hall as Aurus aimed the magic spell he was conjuring towards the really strong clone. Not long after, he shot the spell as he said...

    "[Spirit Wind Burst]."

    Whoosh!

    As if the detonation of a bomb urred within the green jade hall, the spell that wasposed of multiple sharp wind energy particles collided with all of the clones'' bodies and shredded it to pieces, including the body of the really strong clone as the attack power of the magic spell was incredibly high.

    ________

    [Spirit Wind Burst]

    A spell that exerts a higher attack power than [Spirit Wind Ball], it is an attack that damage enemies within a certain radius through the help of overly charged wind energy particles.

    SP Cost: 50 SP

    ________

    This spell was the spell he acquired after maxing out the Low Spirit Spell Core skill. Not disappointing his expectations, it did what it had to do, which was kill all of his enemies.

    Not long after the death of the 64 clones, the dust that was transformed from the clones'' bodies rushed towards Aurus'' body, which was absorbed by him as a notification screen appeared in front of his field of vision.

    Ding!

    ''Wave 7 has been cleared.''

    ''Experience +640''

    ''3 Genesis Points have been acquired.''

    At this moment, Aurus'' eyes sparkled after seeing how much Genesis Points he obtained this round.

    "Hahaha! My hypothesis was correct! The more types of enemies I fight, the more Genesis Points I obtain!"

    Feeling satisfied with his hypothesis being correct, he looked at his status screen and noticed how much unused experience points he had after clearing the seventh wave.

    "With this, I might be able to breeze through levels when I evolve to S-grade," Aurus said to himself as the circle of clones materialized below his body as he was floating.

    Concurrently, while the materialisation was happening, the disembodied voice started to talk.

    "The eighth wave is starting. Please proceed with caution."

    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!

    128 clones. This was the number of clones Aurus had to fight during this wave. Two of which were the really strong clones Aurus fought againstst wave.

    While looking at the 128 clones under him, Aurus couldn''t help but ponder about his next strategy. He could use the forms of the Spirit Spear consecutively, but it would take him a while to truly deal some damage to the clones.

    He could also use Spirit magic spells, but two of the three offensive spells were on cooldown, with only one offensive spell being able to casted while the other two were support type magic.

    As for the clones, they did not hesitate to shoot their walnuts and tridents towards Aurus'' way as 126 shots came to hit Aurus'' body.

    "You know what?" Since he was going to face 126 shots at once, Aurus made up his mind and casted the only offensive spell he could cast.

    "[Spirit Wind Ball]!"

    Whoosh!

    Bang!

    Since he was cornered on all sides by these shots, he used the momentum of the [Spirit Wind Ball] to carve a path out of the bombardment as he hovered with a fast speed to get out of harm''s way.

    "I knew I should''ve headed towards the edges of the hall." After experiencing a situation where he was cornered by shots from all sides, Aurus did not want that to happen again as he headed towards an edge of the green jade hall, dodging all of the shots that came after him.

    As for the two really strong clones, they were currently sacrificing SP in exchange for power as a silver me covered their bodies. Looking at this, Aurus transformed one of his floating Animas into a Spirit Spear as he smiled inwardly.

    "Let''s start thebo all over again."

    "[Spirit Spear: Denial]!"

 Chapter 46

    Chapter 46: Cleared

    ¡°[Spirit Spear: Denial]!¡±

    Bang!

    With Aurus being buffed by the [Gale Hover] spell in terms of movement speed, even before the clones could react, the Spirit Spear pierced through one of the two really strong clones, killing it off with one shot.

    Whoosh!

    After shooting out the first form of the Spirit Spear, Aurus then darted to another edge of the green jade hall as he noticed that the weak clones shot their walnuts out as the strong clones shot out their tridents that followed wherever Aurus went.

    As for the remaining really strong clone, it also prepared a trident that was formed from a walnut. Just like the strong clones, it prepared a trident that followed wherever Aurus went.

    Bang! Bang! Bang!

    A bombardment of walnuts and tridents headed towards Aurus¡¯ direction, but was dodged at thest minute as he went towards another edge of the green jade hall. While doing so, he prepared another Spirit Spear and shot it without hesitation towards the clones as he shouted, ¡°[Spirit Spear: Anger]!¡±

    Ding!

    ¡®[Spirit Spear: Anger] has been upgraded to [Spirit Spear: Rage].¡¯

    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!

    In an instant, the single Spirit Spear split off into five smaller Spirit Spears that headed towards a random clone, easily killing off three weak clones and two strong clones as their walnuts and tridents collided with the green jade hall.

    Bang!

    Thebined sounds of the walnuts and tridents hitting the wall reverberated throughout the hall, yet it did not leave any scratch on the walls of the hall at all.

    Aurus couldn¡¯t help but look at this and mutter, ¡°Damn. That one sturdy wall right there. Wait¡­why am I thinking about this? I still have over 120 sticks wanting to attack me!¡±

    And attack him they did.

    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!

    As Aurus was muttering to himself, he froze in ce midair as the walnuts and tridents were now heading towards one fixed direction, without having to worry about Aurus dodging or do anything fishy.

    In the minds of the clones, they couldn¡¯t help but feel a sense of schadenfreude when they looked at Aurus, knowing that he was going to die from this bombardment.

    Oh wait. These clones are just protectors of the inheritance, they don¡¯t have any minds or souls at all.

    As for Aurus, he looked at this barrage of shots and let out a grim yet cheerful aura as he stopped hovering andnded on the ground.

    Bang! Bang! Bang!

    All of the walnuts and tridents were left with the fate of hitting the wall once more, leaving Aurus unscathed.

    Aurus conjured another Spirit Spear again and looked at the remaining clones with a sneering face¡­well a sneering aura.

    ¡°Hah! You thought I couldn¡¯t disable my flight?¡±

    ¡°This is the start of true mayhem!¡±

    ¡°[Spirit Spear: Bargaining]!¡±

    Ding!

    ¡®[Spirit Spear: Bargaining] has been upgraded to [Spirit Spear: Insanity].¡¯

    The Spirit Spear that Aurus shot out travelled towards the remaining really strong clone in an instant before it¡­

    Disappeared in an instant.

    Whoosh!

    The really strong clone that Aurus targeted instantly felt a sense of looming danger heading towards its way, only for it to disappear midway. What it did not know though was that¡­

    The danger has only begun.

    Weeeennnggg¡­

    At the next instant the Spirit Spear disappeared, an array of light appeared on the ceiling of the hall as multiple glowing Spirit Spears darted down and aimed at all of the clones. These glowing Spirit Spears felt like the wrath of the heavenly gods when they noticed that their benevolent followersmitted sphemy.

    Bang! Bang! Bang! Bang!

    Within seconds, the hall that was previously filled with 122 clones, was cleared of all of it in instant as the bombardment of fast and strong Spirit Spears killed them off one by one.

    As the skill dissipated once Aurus knew that every single clone was now dead, the dust that was transformed and umted from the bodies of the clones darted towards Aurus¡¯ body as a notification screen appeared in front of his field of vision.

    Ding!

    ¡®Wave 8 has been cleared.¡¯

    ¡®Experience +1280¡¯

    ¡®3 Genesis Points have been obtained.¡¯

    Aurus instantly cleared his field of vision and used the [High Spirit Channeling] skill to refill his SP as a decent chunk of his SP was consumed by the skills he used.

    While refilling his SP, the disembodied voice, which did not know what the word mercy meant, resounded throughout the hall as a huge number of clones appeared in the center of the green jade hall, forming a circle that wasrger than the previous circle of clones made in thest wave.

    ¡°The ninth wave is starting. Please proceed with caution.¡±

    Aurus couldn¡¯t help but let out a sigh as he tried to think up of a method to hastily kill all of the clones while not consuming a lot of SP.

    How many clones was Aurus going to fight against in this wave? Since every consecutive wave, the enemies doubled in number, that meant that Aurus had to fight against 256 clones, 4 of which were the really strong clones.

    Aurus looked at the 256 clones he had to face and noticed that they were already preparing their shots, which already exceeded 200 shots. Feeling the pressure of being cornered from all sides, Aurus decided that the best way to kill all of them in one go was to¡­

    Whoosh!

    Use a Spirit Spear.

    Wooonnngggg¡­

    ¡°[Spirit Spear: Depression].¡±

    The Spirit Spear that flew over the bodies of multiple clones graduallypressed in size as it turned into a dark yet condensed sphere of chaos. Not long after, this sphere pierced through one of the really strong clones and instantly expanded into a size that engulfed all of the 256 clones within it.

    Ding!

    ¡®[Spirit Spear: Depression] has been upgraded to [Spirit Spear: Despair].¡¯

    Swoosh!

    The dark and condensed sphere expanded to a size of over 10 meters in radius, easily engulfing all of the clones that formed a circle of only 7 meters in radius. Under the effects of the domain, the bodies of the clones gradually withered away as their dust piled up on the floor.

    While they were gradually withering away as if they were cursed by the God of Death himself, the really strong clones tried tobat against this effect by expanding the silver mes that covered their bodies to the limit. Sadly, it only slightly extended the duration of their pain until they finally withered away to ashes, adding onto the pile of dust that was on the floor.

    Well¡­not that branches feel pain anyway.

    A few secondster, the dark domain that covered a good portion of the hall finally disappeared as the dust that piled up headed towards Aurus¡¯ body as the ever familiar notification screen appeared in front of his field of vision.

    Ding!

    ¡®Wave 9 has been cleared.¡¯

    ¡®Experience +2560¡¯

    ¡®3 Genesis Points have been obtained.¡¯

    ¡°Well¡­that was easier than I thought,¡± Aurus couldn¡¯t help but say as a single skill wiped out all of the clones that he would have to face if he used another skill. ¡°Then again, it would be a pain to do thebo from the start again. I¡¯m just lucky that I was able to use the upgraded form of Depression. Yeah. Just lucky.¡±

    Sparing no time to prepare for the next wave, Aurus activated the [High Spirit Channeling] skill to its limit as he converted all of his specialized Animas to recover his SP.

    In the midst of his SP recovery, Aurus couldn¡¯t help but say, ¡°This skill is actually more helpful than I thought. I should evolve it after this first trial finishes.¡±

    Ding!

    Getting the notification that his SP bar was fully refilled, Aurus deactivated the [High Spirit Channeling] skill and reverted half of his specialized Animas to recover SP.

    Coincidentally, the disembodied voice talked at this moment, reminding Aurus of something.

    ¡°The tenth and final wave is starting. To the inheritor, I hope you survive this final wave.¡±

    ¡°Ah. It¡¯s already thest wave,¡± Aurus couldn¡¯t help but say to himself. ¡°It has been like what? A few hours already?¡±

    Although he already activated his [Gale Hover] spell on the waves near the end, the total time it took for him to reach this current stage already amassed to a total of about 2 hours or so. As to why, this is because of their attack and movement speed.

    Whoosh!

    In an instant, 512 clones appeared in the center of the green jade hall, all of which were facing the direction where Aurus was. Aurus looked back at the clones and noticed that there was a new type of clone in the center of the circle, one that was even stronger than the really strong clones he fought against a few waves ago.

    Letting out a small sigh, Aurus looked at the clone and said¡­

    ¡°Identify.¡±

    ¡­

    In another green jade hall.

    ¡°Oh god, I¡¯m finally done!¡± Herellia couldn¡¯t help but shout out as she broke out of thest illusion world that the first trial brought to her.

    Herellia mulled over what happened for a bit and muttered to herself, ¡°How much time did I use up in this illusion world?¡±

    Closing her eyes and recalling the events that happened within the illusion world, she noticed that there was no difference in time whenpared to the previous illusion worlds she cleared.

    ¡°What the heck? I didn¡¯t improve my time at all?¡± Herellia couldn¡¯t help but curse. Since she was going to be stuck in this green jade hall, she decided to just ept the trial and savor the experience. Once the trial was done and the hall gave her the option to leave, she would leave immediately.

    What she didn¡¯t know though was that once the trial started, the trial can¡¯t be stopped midway, it has to be done from start to finish.

    What she also failed to notice was that, as the illusion worlds grew harder and harder in difficulty, she was able to clear them at the same time it took her to clear the previous illusion worlds.

    While cursing at herself, the disembodied voice did not mind Herellia¡¯sints and resounded throughout the hall.

    ¡°The tenth world, Samsara, has been cleared. The first trial is nowpleted.¡±

    ¡°Time used to clear the first trial: 3 hours 27 minutes. Score grade: S.¡±

    ¡°The inheritor has cleared the trial with an excellent score is able to do the second trial with a reduced difficulty.¡±

    ¡°Not only that, the inheritor is awarded a special reward thanks to it achieving an S grade score.¡±

    ¡°Reward is being rolled by the inheritance¡­¡±

    ¡°Reward has been rolled. The passive skill [Blessing of the Tetraelemental Tempest] has been acquired.¡±<!--

    -->

 Chapter 47

    Chapter 47: Completion

    ¡°Identify.¡±

    Ding!

    In an instant, the information about the extremely string clone that was in the center of the circle of clones, appeared in front of Aurus¡¯ field of vision.

    ________

    [Future Aurus]

    Existence Level: Inanimate (S)

    Level: 19/20

    HP: 1525/1525

    SP: 2623/2623

    Stats:

    [Fortitude]: 225

    [True Spirit]: 286

    [Energy]: 346

    Skills:

    [Extreme Spiritas Gale Lv. 2], [Fifth Ascension Spirit Shot Lv. 1], [True Spirit Transformation Lv. 2], other skills uncheckable due to the skill [Species Analysis] being low level

    ________

    ¡°Nope.¡± Aurus shook his head in disbelief. ¡°Nope. Nope. There¡¯s no fucking way I¡¯ll fight against this head on.¡±

    ¡°[Extreme Spiritas Gale]? Is that the upgraded version of [Tempestuous Spiritas Glide]?¡±

    ¡°[Fifth Ascension Spirit Shot]¡­probably another path for [Five Mncholy Spirit Spear]?¡±

    ¡°[True Spirit Transformation]¡­this¡­I think I know what this is.¡±

    Looking back and forth at the screen in front of his field of vision and at the extremely strong clone that was at the center of the circle of clones, Aurus had a foreboding feeling that this might be him in the future if he were to progress at his current rate.

    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!

    In an instant, over 500 shots consisting of walnuts and tridents headed towards Aurus¡¯ way as he was still looking at the extremely strong clone.

    ¡°Is this the reason why that clone was named Future Aurus? Is it for me to reflect on my current choices?¡± Aurus couldn¡¯t help but say as he dodged the walnuts and tridents with ease thanks to the [Gale Hover] spell.

    Continuing to look at the extremely strong clone, he noticed that the extremely strong clone was covered in a pure white me rather than a silver me that usually covered his body. He continued to watch this extremely strong clone prepare for its attack towards Aurus as he got closer to the extremely strong clone.

    If the clones that Aurus fought had a sense of sentience right now, they would be extremely shocked because their enemy was charging towards them, letting him be an easy target.

    But since these clones weren¡¯t sentient in any way even if they were at the A-grade or S-grade, they only positioned their bodies to aim at Aurus as they waited for their skills to cool down.

    Aurus, on the other hand, continued to look at the extremely strong clone as if he was gazing into the future. Not long after, he snapped back to reality as he felt that he went into a daze after he floated in midair.

    ¡°Hmmm¡­if this is going to be my future¡­¡±

    ¡°Then I¡¯ll surpass that future.¡±

    Whoosh!

    Forming a Spirit Spear with a floating Anima, Aurus shot this Spirit Spear that was infused with all of his SP as it headed towards the extremely strong clone¡¯s way. Since it was the most dangerous threat within the green jade hall, Aurus had no choice but to target it.

    ¡°To a future I got the chance to meet, farewell.¡±

    ¡°[Spirit Spear: eptance].¡±

    Ding!

    ¡®[Spirit Spear: eptance] has been upgraded to [Spirit Spear: Truth].¡¯

    Wooonnngggg¡­

    In the midst of the Spirit Spear heading towards the extremely strong clone, it froze in ce as all of the other clones froze in ce as well. Just like what he witnessed before when he used the upgraded form of eptance, all of his enemies froze in time.

    Bang! Bang! Bang! Bang!

    One by one, all of the clones he would have faced, from weakest to strongest, were killed in sequence as it created a spiralling pattern of nothingness. Indeed, there was nothing left after this attack. No dust, no remnant of the clones whatsoever. Just Aurus and an empty green jade hall.

    Ding!

    ¡°Ah.¡± Basking in the feeling of tranquility, Aurus was startled by the notification sound that came with the notification screen that popped up in front of his field of vision.

    ¡®[Five Mncholy Spirit Spear] has leveled up.¡¯

    ¡®[Purified Spirit Energy Core (Wind Variant)] has leveled up.¡¯

    ¡°Neat.¡±

    Not long after witnessing a silent massacre of over 500 branches of differing sizes, Aurusnded on the ground as his [Gale Hover] spell finally lost its effect. A few secondster, arge pile of dust suddenly appeared in midair as it rushed towards Aurus¡¯ body, covering him in a thickyer of dust not long after that.

    Ding!

    ¡®Wave 10 has been cleared.¡¯

    ¡®Experience +5120¡¯

    ¡®5 Genesis Points have been obtained.¡¯

    Although he was covered by a thickyer of dust, Aurus was still able to see the notification screen that always popped up whenever a wave finished thanks to him having [Soul Perception I].

    ¡°So I¡¯ve umted over 8000 unused experience points for my S-grade endeavours. Neat.¡±

    ¡°Also, 5 Genesis Points? That¡¯s quite a jump, considering that every time a new type of enemy was shown, only a single Genesis Point would be added.¡±

    Putting the matter of the Genesis Points to the back of his head, Aurus let out a soft sigh as he hastily organized the thoughts in his mind beforemanding, ¡°Evolve [High Spirit Channeling].¡±

    Ding!

    Not even a tenth of a second has passed, but the system had already finished the evolution of the skill.

    ¡®[High Spirit Channeling] has been upgraded to [Grand Spirit and Vitality Transformation].¡¯

    Aurus looked at the new skill¡¯s name and couldn¡¯t help but nod as he said, ¡°Now the skill is showing what it¡¯s actually doing. It¡¯s transforming vitality into spirit, or in this case, SP. Pretty nice.¡±

    It was only at this moment that the disembodied voice started to talk once more.

    ¡°The tenth wave has been sessfully cleared. The first trial of endurance is nowplete.¡±

    ¡°Time taken toplete trial: 4 hours 10 minutes. Score grade: A¡±

    ¡°With the inheritor obtaining a higher than average score, the inheritance shall give the inheritor a special reward before the second trial starts.¡±

    Hearing the consecutive statementse one by one, Aurus hastily processed all of what was said and had his eyes light up after the somewhat mncholic situation of the tenth wave.

    ¡°Eh? A reward? I don¡¯t remember the individual trials themselves having rewards.¡±

    ¡°Then again, who am I to refuse free rewards? Just let it be a good reward!¡±

    As these words came out of his soul, the disembodied voice went silent for a bit before continuing to talk.

    ¡°The special reward is decided on random by the inheritance. Picking in process¡­¡±

    ¡°The special reward has been picked. The inheritor¡¯s movement skill shall have its level increased by 3.¡±

    Ding! Ding! Ding!

    At the instant the disembodied voice was finished talking, three notification screens that instantlybined into one appeared in front of Aurus¡¯ field of vision.

    ¡®[Tempestuous Spiritas Glide] has leveled up thrice.¡¯

    ¡°Hah!¡± At first, Aurus¡¯ eyes shone like the stars¡­only for it to dim and make him curse out loud. ¡°Hah? This is what I get? What the fuck? Is this some kind of joke? I thought this inheritance gave out useful things!¡±

    What Aurus didn¡¯t know was that, this reward would allow him to soar farther in the path to bing a God.

    Not long after Aurus started to curse, the disembodied voice started to resound throughout the hall once more as it exined the second trial. It was at this moment that Aurus decided to shut up.

    ¡°Within ten minutes, the next trial, the Speed trial shall begin. This trial needs the inheritor to traverse 10 kilometers within a day or less.¡±

    ¡°All of the inheritor¡¯s skills shall be returned to a usable state once the trial begins.¡±<!--

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 Chapter 48

    Chapter 48: Logically Dashing Forwards

    ¡°The ten minutes of rest time shall now begin. The inheritor shall be reminded of the second trial once only a minute remains,¡± the disembodied voice that resounded throughout the hall when the first trial was happening resounded once more as it told Aurus about the second trial.

    ¡°¡­¡± For a while, Aurus was at a loss for words, not knowing what to say after the disembodied voice told him the next trial he would have to face. It only took Aurus around ten seconds or so to recover from his silence as he let out a sigh and looked up at the ceiling.

    ¡°Man, I don¡¯t know if this is karma or not, but heck, with this, I think I might just believe in it.¡±

    Aurus said a few words of apologies in his mind before his soul felt lighter thanks to the guilt being lessened. Getting back to his somewhat lively condition back again, Aurus started to think up of what he was going to do in the second trial.

    ¡°Since the second trial needs me to traverse 10 kilometers within the span of 24 hours or less, it would feel extremely easy if it was just a straight path that had no obstacles whatsoever.¡±

    ¡°This would possibly mean that the path I¡¯m going to have traverse would be crooked and have tons of obstacles that vary in size and possibly, threat.¡±

    ¡°With my movement skill being boosted by three levels, my movement speed is now over 300 meters per hour, which means I can traverse 10 kilometers within 34 hours or so, considering the fact that the path in front of me is clear.¡±

    Aurus closed his sense of sight for a bit as he tried to visualize the process of the second trial ording to what he said to himself just now.

    He imagined that the path in front of him would be extremely crooked, with rocks and twigs and even some enemies at the side. After visualizing the path, he then started to think a bit more.

    ¡°If this is what is going to happen in the next trial, then first priority would be to clear the path I¡¯d have to tread. No wait, some parts of the path since I have [Gale Hover]. No, wait again, there could be a few obstacles that [Gale Hover] can¡¯t go over because of its height. Wait¡­why am I thinking about this problem too much? I can just dodge those obstacles.¡±

    ¡°I almost forgot, I also have [Tempest Burst] that would boost my movement speed by 100% for 10 seconds. Wait¡­something feels off. When I used [Tempest Burst] about a few days ago, I felt that the skillsted longer?¡±

    It was at this moment that Aurus opened his eyes andmanded the system to reveal details about the [Tempest Burst] skill and his movement skill.

    Ding! Ding!

    In an instant, two screens appeared in front of him. He first looked at the details about his movement skill as he wanted to make sure that he really had a movement speed over 300 meters per hour. Seeing that his movement speed was now at 310 meters per hour, he closed the first screen and looked at the screen that talked about [Tempest Burst], only to turn silent in shock.

    ________

    [Tempest Burst] (Lv. 6)

    With high proficiency and affinity with the wind, the stick can temporarily controlrge amounts of wind, allowing the stick to either move faster, attack faster, or attack with stronger force.

    Effect: 2x the movement speed, attack power, and attack speed

    Effect duration: 20 seconds

    Cooldown: 5 hours

    (Note: The effect, effect duration, and cooldown will improve based on the level of the movement skill)

    ________

    Of course, knowing that [Tempestuous Spiritas Glide] is just a transformed and renamed version of [Tempest Roll], he knew that he could still use [Tempest Burst]. But to think that his [Tempest Burst] actually improved in terms of effect duration and cooldown, it was absurd.

    pping his nonexistent face with nonexistent hands, he snapped back to reality, closing the screen before letting out an aura of wonder and awe.

    ¡°With the [Gale Hover] spell and the [Tempest Burst] skill activated simultaneously, I could have a movement speed that is beyond 1 kilometer an hour! If only I had a longersting [Tempest Burst] and [Gale Hover], this trial would be finished in less than 10 hours, tops!¡±

    Solidifying the n he had in mind toplete the second trial, he let out a sigh as he muttered to himself, ¡°And this is why I should always grind my skills up. After grinding Life and Will points, I¡¯ll make sure to raise all of my active and possibly passive skills to S-grade or even X-grade.¡±

    After that, Aurus waited out the few remaining minutes of rest he had, taking this time to deactivate his [Spirit Energy Ascension] skill that unknowingly went up two levels in the first trial and explore the entirety of the green jade hall.

    It only spanned around 50 meters in radius anyway so it didn¡¯t take him long to see everything within the hall.

    ¡°Only one minute remains before the second trial starts,¡± the disembodied voice resounded throughout the hall all of a sudden, which Aurus only paid a little attention to as it wasn¡¯t the real thing.

    It was only exactly a minuteter did Aurus truly pay attention to the announcement of the disembodied voice.

    ¡°The ten minutes of rest time are now over. All of the inheritor¡¯s skills shall be reset as the second trial, the Speed trial, shall now begin.¡±

    Whoosh!

    In an instant, the green jade hall that only spanned 50 meters in radius, expanded towards a single direction as it gradually became a long corridor that Aurus couldn¡¯t see the end of.

    He looked at the hall for a bit and noticed that there were no obstacles whatsoever. Aurus thought that it would take a while for the obstacles to appear so he waited a few more minutes¡­only for it to be futile.

    ¡°The Speed trial begins! 24 hours are now counting down.¡±

    Hearing this announcement, Aurus activated his movement skill as he couldn¡¯t help but mutter to himself, ¡°All that preparation I did was for naught?¡±

    ¡°Are you fucking kidding me?¡±

    ¡­

    In another green jade hall.

    ¡°Reward has been rolled. The passive skill [Blessing of the Tetraelemental Tempest] has been obtained.¡±

    After hearing this statement, Herellia knew instantly that this skill was something extremely great from the name alone.

    Not long after, a special sound could be heard throughout the green jade hall.

    Normally, it would only be heard when Aurus had a skill leveling up or doing something rted to the system. But in this case¡­

    Ding!

    ¡®The skill [Blessing of the Tetraelemental Tempest] has been obtained.¡¯

    ¡®[Blessing of the Tetraelemental Tempest] has shown greatpability with the user¡¯s [Tempest Affinity] skill.¡¯

    ¡®A new skill has been formed. [Tetraelemental Tempest Affinity] has been created.¡¯

    The sound resounded throughout Herellia¡¯s hall as well.

    Not long after, a holographic and semitransparent screen that was the same as Aurus¡¯ screens, appeared in front of Herellia¡¯s field of vision.

    ¡°Oh? Two skills in one go?¡± Herellia couldn¡¯t help but smile inwardly as she felt that the trial was definitely a blessing in disguise. While smiling at the gains she got, she remembered that she nned to leave the trial once this trial was done.

    Only for that decision to change.

    ¡°You know what? I¡¯ll just apologize to Aurus once I¡¯m done with this trial,¡± Herellia let out a cheerful aura as she prepared for the next trial she would have to face.

    ¡­

    Within the Tempest Ruin.

    A few hours have passed since Artan and Mira reached the ce where they saw the red dot blink, sparing all of this time to train their wind-rted skills inside this ce where the wind was extremely concentrated.

    Letting out soft huffs every once in a while, Mira, who was practicing her wind elemental spells, couldn¡¯t help but look at Artan who was consistently swinging his axe up and down at a steady pace.

    ¡°Hey, it¡¯s already around 4 in the afternoon? Don¡¯t you think we should head back and tell Dane about the Spiritas¡¯ disappearance?¡± Mira couldn¡¯t help but ask.

    Hearing her question, Artan brought his axe down and brought out the crystal Dane gave to him from his pocket. Noticing that there was still no red dot inside the crystal, Artan couldn¡¯t help but let out a sigh as he nodded and ced the axe on his back.

    ¡°Yeah, I think it¡¯s time to tell him. You better help me out on exining this, okay Mira?¡±

    ¡°Hehe. Only if you pay me a few gold coins.¡±

    ¡°Tch. Miser.¡±

    As they cracked a few jokes in the middle of their journey back to the Seraph Kingdom, Artan and Mira didn¡¯t know that¡­the red dot was still there.

    It was still at the tip of the crystal.

    Only covered by Artan¡¯s finger when he looked at it.<!--

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 Chapter 49

    Chapter 49: Changing Fate

    Within the vast expanse of nothingness normally called the Universe or the Celestial ne by many people, there lies a white cube that spans a few hundred meters on all sides, with a person inside it being on the level of a God.

    That God was actually a Goddess, and her name was Kurohana. This was Kurohana¡¯s special space.

    Looking at the orb that always broadcasted Aurus¡¯ every move, Kurohana nodded to herself as she knew that she made the right choice as to which soul to use. ¡°As expected from one of the top yers of Infinite Stick Evolution. Once his early game memories were recovered, he would now aim to make his base form stronger in preparation for the future.¡±

    At this moment, Kurohana couldn¡¯t help but giggle a bit. ¡°Anyways, it won¡¯t be possible for him to reach the level he wants since his fate has already been set.¡±

    Ding!

    All of a sudden, a sound that was usually heard when Aurus¡¯ system did something, resounded throughout the inside of the white cube, making Kurohana fall into silence. Not long after, she couldn¡¯t help but ask herself, ¡°Where did that sound came from?¡±

    If anyone were to be in the white space right now, they would be smitten by Kurohana¡¯s beauty as a goddess even when frowning. But considering the fact that Kurohana looked like a 15 year old that had a bountiful bosom, it was more likely that that person would be arrested in a heartbeat.

    Kurohana then tried to search where that sound came from, only for it toe from the orb she used to look at Aurus from afar. Seeing what Aurus was currently doing, which was traversing an extremely long green corridor, she couldn¡¯t help but frown as to where it came from.

    ¡°Hm. He didn¡¯t use his system in these past few minutes, so it could mean¡­¡±

    At this point, Kurohana remembered the stick that was beside Aurus around half a day ago. It was a stick that had a trace of divinity within it, which was the same as Aurus, having a trace of Kurohana¡¯s divinity.

    When she first found out that there was another god that found her ns and used it to bolster their own power as well, she couldn¡¯t help but get furious as it was her ace in the hole, allowing to keep her poprity as a weapon craftsman.

    Letting out a soft sigh to calm her senses, she softlymanded, ¡°Zoom out.¡±

    Whoosh!

    In an instant, the view from orb that was focused on Aurus suddenly expanded to cover the whole inheritance, which wasposed of multiple corridors and halls. Looking closely, Kurohana noticed that there was another stick other than Aurus that was tackling the inheritance.

    ¡°Is this possibly¡­?¡± Kurohana instantly zoomed in on that stick, feeling that her ns were going to be ruined in the future. Looking at the stick from up close through the orb, she noticed that the trace of divinity was extremely familiar to her. Not only that, she also proved that the system sound came from the stick as well, coincidentally seeing that the stick was interacting with a semitransparent screen.

    She closed her eyes for a bit, grasping a small hint of the divinity that the stick exuded and used a special divine technique to find out which god knew of her, Kurohana¡¯s special world.

    Bang!

    Not long after, Kurohana¡¯s eyes opened up and within it shed a raging me that could swallow a person whole. As this happened, multiple white lightning bolts appeared on the periphery of the white cube, spreading outwards as it lit up a small part of the Celestial ne with an unimaginable brightness.

    ¡°That bitch!¡± Kurohana couldn¡¯t help but grit her teeth as she remembered a goddess¡¯ face that seemed to be mocking her.

    ¡°To think that the Goddess of Kinship, Familia, has caught wind of my special world that allows me to procure special items. Who knows when she would spread it to other gods!¡±

    Still in a fit of rage, Kurohana stood up and opened a rift towards the Celestial ne as she was heading towards Familia¡¯s ne. Her mind was filled with the thought of silence. The thought of silencing Familia once and for all.

    ¡°I don¡¯t know how she found it out¡­but I better silence her before it gets worse.¡±

    Whoosh!

    At the next instant, Kurohana left her ne, leaving the orb to broadcast Herellia¡¯s actions. What she didn¡¯t know was that¡­

    This would change Aurus¡¯ fate in the future.

    ¡­

    ¡°[Gale Hover]!¡±

    ¡°[Tempest Burst]!¡±

    Whoosh!

    Darting towards the end of the corridor with a temporarily boosted speed of 1.55 kilometers per hour that wouldst for 20 seconds at most, Aurus was thinking of what to do after finishing the trial and killing the boss of the Lesser Experience Haven.

    ¡°Hmm¡­I still have two more trials after this ording to the disembodied voice that announces the trials I would have to take. But it doesn¡¯t hurt to prepare for the future, right?¡±

    ¡°Well first off, I really have to fill my Life and Will points to the limit. No wait, I have passive skills that boost the limit of my Life and Will points, which could possibly me a better evolution.¡±

    ¡°I should also kill the bosses of the ces where I could grind experience since all of them give out Genesis Points, which would allow the Genesis Tree to grow faster.¡±

    ¡°But what I should really do in the meantime is¡­¡± Aurus¡¯ eyes glinted as he continued to traverse the long green corridor.

    ¡°Grind. My. Skills!¡±

    Whoosh!

    In an instant, multiple Spirit Spears were creating from the floating Animas that hovered around his body. Concurrently, the Animas that held SP and recovered his HP and SP were being destroyed and created multiple times in a second.

    ¡°First off, grind my SP storage skill and the Spirit Spear skill!¡±

    ¡°[Spirit Spear: Denial]!¡±

    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!

    Continuing along the path, Aurus would grind all of the skills that he could grind while making sure that [Gale Hover] and [Tempest Burst] were used at the instant they were off cooldown.

    ¡°Since I have time to spare, this is what I should be doing!¡±

    ¡­

    Around two days have passed since Artan and Mira decided to give up on chasing the Spiritas and headed back to the Seraph Kingdom within the continent whose name is still unknown.

    Using the Fly spell and the Child of the Wind buff allowed them to traverse most of the distance at a fast speed, but a person¡¯s MP had its limit, needing them to take rests in viges and small towns in between these flights, allowing Mira to recover her MP and not let her suffer from mana depletion, which was something a mage wouldn¡¯t want to happen.

    Whoosh!

    The two of themnded in front of an extremely tall tower within the Seraph Kingdom. It was considered as andmark of the Seraph Kingdom, which was also a haven for all mages of all ranks.

    This tower in front of them was the Arcana Tower.

    ¡°Halt!¡± As they were going to walk into the Arcana Tower, they were barred of entry by a guard that exuded a menacing aura towards the two.

    ¡°Artan, whatever you do. Don¡¯t fight against this guy,¡± Mira looked at Artan as she whispered a few words of warning near Artan¡¯s ear. ¡°What you should do is answer his every question and use Dane¡¯s name as a way to enter the tower.¡±

    ¡°You don¡¯t want to face the wrath of a Rank 6 Supreme Arcana Guard, now do you?¡±

    Gulp. Artan couldn¡¯t help but swallow his saliva as beads of cold sweat dropped from his forehead. He actually had the notion of doing just that, he looked at Mira and gave a gaze of gratitude before looking at the mighty guard in front of them.

    ¡°State your purpose,¡± the guardmanded.

    Mira bowed respectfully to the guard, to which Artan bowed as well. Afterwards, Mira shed a badge that had a drawing of a magic staff covered in leaves in the middle and said, ¡°I am Mira, a Rank 3 Elementalist of the Arcana Tower. I am here under the orders of Rank 4 High Mage Dane to report a mission sent by him.¡±

    The guard that could kill in one hit, nodded at Mira¡¯s words and looked at Artan. ¡°How about you?¡±

    Artan couldn¡¯t help but shiver in front of the guard¡¯s gaze, but he forcefully concealed it and answered in a somewhat calm tone. ¡°I am Artan, a Rank 2 Battle Warrior, no affiliation. I am also here under the orders of the Rank 4 High Mage Dane to report a mission sent by him.¡±

    The guard stared at Artan for a bit before nodding his head and giving way to the two, letting them walk through the entrance of the Arcana Tower without difficulty.

    ¡°Hey Mira, why did you use Dane¡¯s name? Since you¡¯re a member of the Arcana Tower, wouldn¡¯t you be able to enter and exit the tower as you please?¡± Artan couldn¡¯t help but ask as they gradually headed up towards the 40th floor of the Arcana Tower, the floor meant for Rank 4 High Mages and equivalent magic-rted sses.

    Mira shook her head as she replied, ¡°Although I¡¯m a member of the Arcana Tower, I need to be a Rank 4 Grand Elementalist at least to enter and exit the tower without the guard batting an eye. Anyways, let¡¯s hurry up and tell Dane about his mission.¡±<!--

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 Chapter 50

    Chapter 50: The Truth

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    Since Mira was a Rank 3 Elementalist that knew how to boost her movement speed with the help of the elements, and Artan was a Rank 2 Battle Warrior that had higher strength and endurancepared to other people of the same rank, it only took them around ten minutes to reach the 40th floor of the Arcana Tower, which was near the middle of the extremely high tower that spanned over 100 floors.

    They stood in front of the doorway that served as the entrance and exit of the 40th floor. Mira told Artan along the way that they could not enter this floor unless they had the permission of a Rank 4 High Mage or higher. Hence, being a shrewd person because of her increased intelligence, Mira asked Artan to give her the crystal that Dane gave him.

    After that, Mira infused mana into her voice as she spoke into the crystal. Artan looked at this sight with confusion as he had no idea what Mira was doing. Not only that, the words that came out of Mira¡¯s mouth felt like it was muffled by arge pool of water.

    ¡°What are you doing to the crystal?¡± Artan couldn¡¯t help but ask.

    Mira looked at Artan with a casual gaze and replied, ¡°Since the crystal allows us to see the Spiritas¡¯ position, this meant that Dane casted a spell on the crystal that allowed us to see what he was sensing since he casted a tracking spell on the Spiritas. In other words, we can basically talk to Dane through this crystal if we knew how to do so.¡±

    As Artan was still somewhat confused by Mira¡¯s exnation, a dashingly handsome man that wore a crimson red robe and ck-rimmed sses thatplemented his ck hair, appeared on the other side of the doorway, looking at the two with a light smile.

    ¡°Oh, if it isn¡¯t Artan and Mira! Let¡¯s talk inside my ce.¡± This man was Dane, the one that hired Artan and Mira to catch the Spiritas he wanted to procure the special weapon needed by His Highness Prince Vanadir.

    Mira and Artan looked at each other and nodded before following Dane into the 40th floor. A few minutester, they entered a secluded room within the 40th floor that was meant for Dane¡¯s experiments and other magic-rted stuff.

    ¡°So¡­¡± Dane grabbed a chair and sat on it, to which Mira and Artan grabbed a nearby chair and sat on it as well, looking at Dane with slight fear. ¡°Did you guys catch the Spiritas?¡±

    ¡°We¡ª¡± Artan was about to answer Dane¡¯s question, only to be stopped by Mira before he could really speak his mind. Mira shook her head as she respectfully replied, ¡°Venerable High Mage Dane, we were unsessful in the capture of the Spiritas as it disappeared in the midst of our journey.¡±

    Dane raised his eyebrow and looked at Mira intently before asking, ¡°Disappeared? The Spiritas? How would it disappear? That was a Spiritas that was inclined to the Wind element. If it had an innate spell of the Wind element that allowed it to travel far and out of reach of my Magic Tracking spell, then I can understand that.¡± Dane did not want to use formalnguage like Mira, he was not only talking to Mira after all, talking in a formalnguage would make Artan feel left out.

    ¡°And if it was a Spiritas inclined to the Space element, I could understand that as well. But we¡¯re talking about a Spiritas of the Wind element here. Judging from the aura of energy it exudes, it wouldn¡¯t even be able to cast high-leveled Wind magic.¡±

    In an instant, Mira was at a loss for words to say. After a few moments of silence, the only words that came out of Mira¡¯s mouth was¡­¡±How¡­?¡±

    ¡°How¡­what? How do I know that that Spiritas can only cast low-leveled magic? How do I know that that Spiritas has a low energy pool?¡± Dane replied in a passive aggressive manner.

    ¡°Most of the low ranking mages don¡¯t know this, so this will pretty much give you a headstart in crafting a special staff for you, Mira. As for you Artan, it¡¯ll let you take note of special inanimate objects that might sell for a lot,¡± Dane sighed and continued.

    ¡°Although there are some inanimate objects in the world that have an energy pool within them, a small amount only gets captured. Do you know why?¡±

    ¡°Why?¡± Artan, who was stopped by Mira from answering, looked at Dane with a curious gaze.

    Dane noticed his gaze and became a bit more serious in his words.

    ¡°Most of the inanimate objects in the world that have energy¡­have souls.¡±

    ¡°¡­¡± Artan and Mira were at a loss for words at the instant Dane was finished replying. The only word that came out of their mouths afterwards was¡­¡±What?¡±

    ¡°It was unbelievable for me as well,¡± Dane knew their reactions far too well as he also reacted that way when he first knew of this. ¡°To think that inanimate objects have souls and an intelligence that could be on par with humans, if it wasn¡¯t for their bodies, they would definitely be a force to be reckoned with.¡±

    Dane leaned forward by a bit and whispered, ¡°You guys have heard of myths and legends of heroes being born from inanimate objects right? In truth, these heroes evolved from inanimate objects, bing species that didn¡¯t lose out to our intelligence.¡±

    Being bombarded with a shocking fact one after the other, the two were left speechless as Dane said, ¡°Give me the crystal.¡±

    Mira, who grabbed the crystal from Artan, absentmindedly gave it to Dane, to which Dane looked at it from all angles.

    After a few seconds of scrutinizing, Dane couldn¡¯t but say in shock, ¡°You¡¯re right, the red dot that represents the Spiritas is gone.¡±

    At this moment in time, Artan and Mira finally processed the information they got from Dane and kept their mouths shut for the time being as Dane was seriously examining the crystal.

    A few secondster, Dane noticed something off and said, ¡°Wait¡­ that¡¯s not right. Although the Spiritas is gone in the crystal, I can still sense it.¡± He then scrutinized the crystal one more time and finally found the thing he was looking for. ¡°Aha!¡±

    Hearing thise out from Dane¡¯s mouth, Mira and Artan knew at first nce that they forgot something.

    ¡°W-What did you find¡­V-Venerable High Mage D-Dane?¡± Mira, being the one to break the ice, asked.

    Dane, who finally realized the mistakes of the two, looked at the two with a serious nce and said, ¡°The Spiritas isn¡¯t gone.¡±

    ¡°Eh? How could that be?¡± Artan couldn¡¯t help but blurt out. ¡°I double checked it every time I looked at the crystal! I looked at it from every ang¡­le¡­¡± As Artan was still talking, Dane rotated the crystal 90 degrees, letting Artan and Mira seeing a blinking red dot on the tip of the crystal.

    ¡°This dot must have been covered by your fingers hence you didn¡¯t see it,¡± Dane couldn¡¯t help but sigh as he replied. Not long after, he ced the crystal on a nearby desk and grabbed a small pouch, to which he gave to Mira and Artan.

    ¡°You¡¯ve already exert a lot of effort into capturing the Spiritas. Although you failed in capturing it, I won¡¯t let you leave empty-handed. Within that bag is 500 gold coins.¡±

    Even though the amount of gold they received was one-tenth of what was promised, Artan and Mira bowed respectfully towards Dane and said a few words of gratitude before leaving the Arcana Tower and parting their own ways.

    As for Dane, he looked at the crystal that had a blinking red dot on its tip and sighed. He lied his head down on the desk as he muttered, ¡°If I try and capture the Spiritas myself, I would of course be sessful in doing so, but if my presence were to be gone for a small bit within the Seraph Kingdom, the Eighth Prince would lose his standing and perhaps lose his right to fight for the throne.¡±

    ¡°If I don¡¯t, the weapon that the Eighth Prince can wield would only be a Magic grade weapon at most if infused with my magic.¡±

    ¡°What should I do¡­¡± Dane was at a crossroads in terms of what to do. Not long after, a me of firm determination appeared in his eyes as he used the crystal he used to contact Prince Vanadir and Artan to contact another person he knew.

    ¡°Hello? Is Jihan there? Tell him that I want the highest quality wood of the Wind element as fast as possible.¡±

    ¡°Oh. I¡¯m talking to him right now? Well hey, it¡¯s Dane. Anyways, you¡¯ve heard what I wanted right?¡±

    ¡°What am I going to use it for? I¡¯m going to infuse it with magic and craft a weapon with it?¡±

    ¡°Eh? You want to buy the finished product from me? Impossible. That weapon will be used for another purpose.¡±

    ¡°Alright. Contact me if you have the goods prepared, okay?¡±

    Putting the crystal down that was known by many people as the Communication Crystal, Dane let out a sigh and muttered, ¡°If that Spiritas was used as the main material for the weapon, it would definitely make the weapon an Evolving Weapon and even perhaps reach a grade beyond Myth.¡±

    Putting this weapon problem to the back of his head, Dane ced the crystal he used to track the Spiritas under the desk and decided to create a special Wind element spell for the weapon that was going to be used by Prince Vanadir in the future.<!--

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 Chapter 51

    Chapter 51: Illusion

    Twenty two hours have passed since Aurus started traversing the extremely long corridor that was originally a green jade hall.

    In the midst of his journey to the end of the corridor, he decided to grind all of the skills he could possibly grind while making sure that he was using [Gale Hover] and [Tempest Burst] at the exact time they were off cooldown.

    ¡°[Spirit Spear: Bargaining]!¡±

    Bang! Bang! Bang!

    In an instant, a few Spirit Spears were shot in front of Aurus¡¯ field of vision as he could finally see the end of the corridor, which was a wall of green jade.

    ¡°Oh god. Finally! The end! I¡¯m d this spell is off cooldown. [Gale Hover]!¡±

    Consuming 100 points of his SP bar, Aurus gradually hovered off the ground and zoomed towards the end as the sides of his field of vision were cluttered with multiple notification screens.

    Of course, since he was using [Gale Hover] and [Tempest Burst] once they were cooldown, then it wouldn¡¯t be weird for Aurus to use his skills at the instant they were off cooldown too, right?

    Nheless, with the amount of notification screens on the sides of his field of vision, Aurus was bound to have his strength go up even though he was still in the same grade.

    Whoosh!

    Landing on the ground and touching the green jade wall, Aurus couldn¡¯t help but let out a sigh of relief as he emanated a cheery aura. He was finally done with this monotonous trial.

    Not long after touching the wall, the disembodied voice that usually announced important things to Aurus, resounded throughout the long corridor.

    ¡°The second trial, Speed, has beenpleted.¡±

    ¡°Time taken toplete the trial: 21 hours 45 minutes. Score grade: A.¡±

    ¡°With an above average score on this trial, the inheritor shall now receive a special reward from the inheritance.¡±

    ¡°Reward is being rolled by the inheritance, please wait¡­¡±

    ¡°Reward has been rolled. The active skill [sh] has been obtained.¡±

    Ding!

    After the consecutive statements from the disembodied voice, it was followed up by the notification sound from Aurus¡¯ system, opening up a screen in front of his field of vision.

    ¡®[sh] has been obtained.¡¯

    Surprisingly, the details of this skill were shown beside the notification screen, making Aurus looked at the skill screen with surprise. ¡°Wait¡­ isn¡¯t this¡­? Isn¡¯t this the other evolution for my movement skill?¡±

    How could Aurus possibly forget. The [sh] skill, one of the two choices of skill evolution for the C-grade [Roll] skill. It exchanged the constant rate of movement for a long distance being traversed in a short time, but with a long cooldown.

    ¡°This is definitely a good reward. If I can¡¯t fight against the enemy I¡¯m up against with, then i can just use [sh] to escape!¡± Aurus thought up of the possibilities of [sh] in his fights. But as he was in the midst of his thinking extravaganza, a notification sound resounded once more, prompting Aurus to snap back to reality.

    Ding!

    ¡®The skill [sh] is notpatible with the user¡¯s current form.¡¯

    ¡®The skill [sh] has been changed to the skill [Spirit sh].¡¯

    ¡®The skill [Spirit sh] has greatpatibility with the skills [Tempestuous Spiritas Glide] and [High Wind Affinity].¡¯

    ¡®The skill [Spirit sh] has been transformed [Spirit Gale sh] thanks to the help of thepatibility of the skills.¡¯

    ¡°¡­¡± Aurus was speechless. In an instant, the simple [sh] skill was turned into a skill that had an extremely cool sounding name. And you know what they say, skills with cool names have great effects.

    ¡°What¡­?¡± Aurus instantly snapped himself back to reality through force and looked at the happenings before [sh] transformed into thetter.

    ¡°So first, it adjusted the skill to fit my current form, which is understandable. Then, it had greatpatibility with my first movement skill and my elemental affinity skill¡­¡±

    ¡°Is it because they all tackle the element of Wind or something?¡± Aurus thought that this hypothesis was usible, but he had no evidence to consider if it was true or not.

    ¡°Ah whatever. I¡¯ll just ept the gift for what it is,¡± Aurus said to himself.

    After the inheritance gave Aurus a special reward, the long corridor, which Auris traversed within 22 hours, shortened at an extremely fast pace until it became a ce that Aurus was extremely familiar with.

    Pong.

    With a sound that did not fit the current situation, the extremely long corridor returned to its hall shape in the first trial, making Aurus gasp in awe at the powers of the one who made the inheritance.

    Of course, inheritances don¡¯t just pop up out of nowhere. These inheritances were made by beings that had aplished a lot of things in life and wanted to pass it on to the next generation.

    Not long after returning back to normal, the disembodied voice resounded throughout the hall once more, shocking Aurus at the speed of the next trial.

    ¡°The third trial, the Illusion trial, shall begin in the next 30 seconds.¡±

    ¡°This trial needs the inheritor to escape five illusion worlds, with each consecutive illusion world increasing in difficulty.¡±

    ¡°Suggesting the inheritor to think that everything in their surroundings is fake, no matter what.¡±

    With the announcement and the warning given by the disembodied voicesting 20 out of the 30 seconds of rest given to Aurus, Aurus was basically left with 10 seconds of reveling in shock.

    ¡°What¡­¡± Aurus was being pped with shocking things one after the other, rendering him speechless most of the time. He couldn¡¯t even do what he want to do.

    epting fate, Aurus just sighed and waited for the third trial to start. ¡°If I have enough time to rest before thest trial, then I¡¯ll surely evolve the skills I can evolve.¡±

    ¡°For now, I better focus on escaping the worlds.¡±

    Whoosh!

    As if the 10 seconds of rest Aurus had left was equivalent to 1 second in reality, Aurus disappeared within the green jade hall as if he wasn¡¯t there in the first ce. Not long after, the disembodied voice resounded throughout the hall, announcing the start of the third trial.

    ¡°The third trial, Illusion, has now begun.¡±

    ¡°The first illusion world, Void, has been casted.¡±

    ¡­

    In another green jade hall.

    While Aurus was currently tackling his third trial, Herellia, on the other hand, was still on her second trial. As to what this trial was, it was akin to the first trial that Aurus cleared, the Endurance trial.

    But since the difficulty of Herellia¡¯s trial was S grade, even though the difficulty of this trial was reduced thanks to Herellia getting a score grade of S on the first trial, it was still harderpared to Aurus¡¯ Endurance trial.

    Now you may ask, why?

    This is because¡­Herellia is inside another world.

    Whoosh!

    Within this world created by the inheritance, an extremely vast and empty in served as the stage of Herellia¡¯s second trial. On the ins was Herellia that was quite injured whenpared to the time she wasst seen with Aurus.

    Her body was filled with holes of various sizes here and there, the red engravings on her body were flickering every so often, rather than staying luminescent, and since she was a branch of the Blood Belhazard ss, that meant that the water within her xylem was somewhat viscous and crimson red in color. Since she was riddled with holes, this viscous fluid poured out of the holes, making for an eerie-looking branch.

    ¡°Damn¡­I fell for their trap. To think that their bombardment of multiple splinters would actually work.¡± Nheless, Herellia was a branch at heart, how could she feel any pain? Trudging on through the ins, she muttered, ¡°This Endurance trial is definitely harder than the first one, even though the voice said its difficulty was lowered.¡±

    As she was hovering through the ins, the disembodied voice from the hall still lingered in her mind, reminding her of the trial she was currently taking.

    ¡°The second trial, the Endurance trial, shall begin in a few minutes.¡±

    ¡°The trial shall put the inheritor inside a world created by the inheritance, wherein multiple enemies of various grades and abilities shall incessantly hunt down and leave you no time to rx.¡±

    ¡°The goal forpleting this trial is to survive 5 days within this world. As for the ratio of time within the world and reality, 1 day within the conjured world is equal to 1 hour in reality. I wish the inheritor the best of luck.¡±

    Sighing as she noticed a few dozen branches and saplinging at her, she activated her red engravings as she muttered, ¡°It has only been 2 days since I¡¯ve started this trial.¡±

    ¡°If only I had a healing skill with me, that would be nice.¡±

    ¡°For now, I have to rely on my innate recovery and endure as much as possible.¡±

    ¡°[Blood Art: Dtion]!¡±<!--

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 Chapter 52

    Chapter 52: Helplessness in the Void

    Whoosh!

    A few seconds after disappearing from the green jade hall he was used to traversing on, Aurus was brought into a world where the floor was ck, the surroundings are ck, and what he perceived was all ck.

    ¡°Ugh¡­¡± Aurus felt light-headed after being transported to this world without him taking any precautions. It took Aurus a few minutes before he could barely think straight as he looked at his surroundings.

    ¡°Huuh¡­haah¡­why is this world¡­devoid of anything?¡± Aurus couldn¡¯t help but mutter to himself as he used his [Soul Perception I] skill to look at everything. He could sense items here and there, but they were the same color of ck as the vast expanse behind it, making it seem that they were not there. The only thing that wasn¡¯t ck or devoid of color was Aurus himself.

    Rolling bit by bit as he used [Soul Perception I] to look at his surroundings, Aurus felt that it would take a while for him to leave this world. At that moment, the disembodied voice that usually resounded throughout the green jade hall where previously resided, resounded throughout the world where Aurus was currently in.

    ¡°The third trial, Illusion, has now begun.¡±

    ¡°The first illusion world, Void, has been casted.¡±

    ¡°Oh? So that¡¯s why this world seemed like it was devoid of anything. The world¡¯s name is Void.¡± Aurus now felt that the world he was currently in made more sense. Nheless, he was at a loss as to what to do next since he had no idea on how to escape a world like this.

    Continuing to roll forward with the help of his [Soul Perception I] skill, Aurus started to hypothesize methods that would allow him to leave this first world.

    ¡°Hmm¡­so far, only three wayse to mind,¡± Aurus muttered to himself.

    ¡°The first thing I could do is traverse this vast expanse to its end and escape from its boundary. Of course, being an illusion world, it has its limits on distance.¡±

    ¡°The second thing I could do is heed the disembodied voice¡¯s words and forcefully escape the illusion by utilizing the methods I used when I fought with illusionists back then.¡±

    At these moments, memories of him fighting against illusionists surfaced in his mind, letting him recall the ways he escaped their illusions. Since he was in an illusion world, then it makes sense that he could escape it like escaping from the illusions of the illusionists, right?

    ¡°As for the third method¡­I don¡¯t know if it¡¯ll work though,¡± Aurus had some doubts on thisst method. ¡°Rather than heeding the disembodied voice¡¯s words, I disregard this and ept everything as reality while finding faults within the illusion world.¡±

    ¡°It does sound absurd,¡± Aurus felt that the words that came out of his mouth were sarcastic.

    ¡°I guess I¡¯ll just use the second method for now. If that doesn¡¯t work, then the third method. If that doesn¡¯t work, then the first one.¡±

    Cutting off his senses towards the outside world, Aurus continued to roll as every once in a while, he would turn to the left, or perhaps turn to the right, or even turn 180 degrees. As to why he was doing this, he was just following his gut feeling as he did this.

    And so, with this method, around 10 minutes have passed since Aurus entered this world.

    At these moments, Aurus activated his [Soul Perception I] skill once more, seeing that everything was ck around him. ¡°Hm. I guess the second method doesn¡¯t work then.¡±

    Aurus then steeled his decision to start using the third method since it didn¡¯t work.

    ¡°[Spirit Detection (Wind Variant)]!¡±

    Whoosh!

    At the instant Aurus casted one of his two support spells, a green circle hastily expanded to a radius of 10 meters before dissipating, letting Aurus perceive everything that was 10 meters around him with a greater sense of detail.

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡± Aurus absorbed every single bit of information regarding the surroundings 10 meters around him. After a few seconds, he had a rough sketch of the ce he was currently in.

    ¡°A few objects within the 10 meter radius were rock-like in shape, while the ground was covered in small stalks of what seems to be grass. As for trees, there is none. Hence¡­¡±

    Aurus easily got to a conclusion. ¡°This is a ins. The question left is¡­how vast is it?¡±

    At the next instant, Aurus had an impulse to traverse the whole terrain of the illusion world he was currently in and gauge howrge the area was. But this was instantly suppressed by his rationality, since he knew that it would span 5 kilometers on each side at least.

    Letting out a soft sigh of relief, Aurus conjured a floating Anima that was transformed into a Spirit Spear not long after. Aurus then recalled the location of one of the rock-like objects and shot the Spirit Spear towards it, which instantly multiplied in number not long after, turning into a barrage of Spirit Spears.

    Bang! Bang! Bang!

    At the next instant the massive amount of Spirit Spears collided with the rock-like object, a small glint of light appeared near the rock-like object, making Aurus¡¯ nonexistent eyes light up as he knew he was getting somewhere.

    Seeing that he found a possible way to get out. Aurus did not hesitate to get closer to the rock-like object which was being bombarded by the multiple Spirit Spears. It took a few minutes for Aurus toe closer to the rock-like object, only to be gobsmacked at what was happening.

    The Spirit Spears weren¡¯t colliding with the rock-like object at all. With the help of his [Spirit Detection (Wind Variant)] skill, Aurus could see that there was a strong yet invisible barrier a few millimeters apart from the rock-like object, as it deflected the tips of the Spirit Spear to hit each other instead, resulting in the sparks Aurus could see from afar.

    At the ce Aurus was a while ago, it would look like the light was the result of the collision of the rock-like object and the Spirit Spears, but it was only a farce, causing Aurus to gradually lose motivation on the third method.

    He tried using the third offensive Spirit spells he had, in consecutive order of power, but s to no fruition as well. Letting out a soft sigh, Aurus couldn¡¯t help but use the first method instead.

    ¡°I don¡¯t know if this will work¡­but it¡¯s worth a shot. If I don¡¯t escape this world, then how would I evolve to S-grade?¡±

    Aurus casted [Gale Hover] as he gradually hovered off of the seamless ck ground and started to head towards the boundary of the illusion world he was in.

    A few minutes in, he felt that he was in for a long ride, considering that the only experiences he had with illusions and illusion worlds spanned for kilometers beyond end.

    But this was going to be broken by the illusion world itself¡­

    Poof!

    At the 4 minute mark of his [Gale Hover] spell, Aurus felt a vortex sucking him in as his surroundings was gradually being filled with light until¡­

    Whoosh!

    With a gust of wind, Aurus appeared back within the green jade hall as he continued to hover over the green jade hall¡¯s ground. Aurus looked at his surroundings and casted [Spirit Detection (Wind Variant)] a few times to see if he was hallucinating.

    He also went closer to the walls and shot a few Spirit Spears, determining its authenticity. After doing all of that, Aurusnded on the center of the green jade hall and only muttered one word.

    ¡°H-How¡­¡±<!--

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 Chapter 53

    Chapter 53: Entering the Mirage

    ¡°H-How¡­¡± Aurus couldn¡¯t believe it. The first method, and the only method that felt stupid to Aurus, was actually the method on getting out of the first world. Obviously, Aurus was still at a loss for words, only for him to realize that he was just using a more direct way of the second method.

    ¡°If I think about it, the first method and the second method aren¡¯t different at all. If you know the boundaries of the illusion, then you can escape the illusion once you got past it. Maybe I¡¯m just too used to illusionists using mazes as their illusions, hence I close my sense of vision a lot,¡± Aurus couldn¡¯t help butugh at himself as he forgot such a basic rule.

    Without caring for Aurus¡¯ wellbeing as usual, the disembodied voice resounded throughout the hall after Aurus escaped the first world.

    ¡°The first world, Void, has been escaped from in the time of 24 minutes and 32 seconds. Score grade: A.¡±

    ¡°The passive skill [Illusion Resistance] has been given as a reward.¡±

    Ding!

    ¡°Hm?¡± Hearing the words that came from the disembodied voice, it was quite weird for the inheritance to give the one doing the trials, a resistance to the trial that the one was currently doing.

    ¡®The passive skill [Illusion Resistance] has been obtained.¡¯

    ¡°Meh.¡± Aurus didn¡¯t even bother looking at the details of the skill since someone with quick thinking would easily deduce the effects of the skill, which was of course, reducing the chances of the user falling into an illusion. Or perhaps, rather than reducing the chances of the user falling into an illusion, it would instead make the user¡¯s escape out of the illusion easier.

    ¡°Anyways, I wonder how this will be leveled up,¡± Aurus said to himself. At this moment in time, another skill shed in his mind, which he had since he was a measly C-grade Inanimate.

    ¡°Identify [Soul Perception I],¡± Aurusmanded the system, noticing the fact that the disembodied voice didn¡¯t say anything about the second world just yet.

    Ding!

    ________

    [Soul Perception I] (Level 1/5)

    Experience: 9/10

    A skill obtained by those who are gifted in the soul, this skill allows the user to sense everything in their surroundings within a set radius.

    Current radius: 5 meters

    ________

    At first nce, everything seemed normal, except for the fact that the experience needed to level the skill up was only a measly one experience point.

    ¡°Eh? How did I gain experience on this skill?¡± Aurus had a feeling that it might due to having his sense of vision activated at all times, but if that was the case, wouldn¡¯t his [Soul Perception I] be maxed out already or perhaps evolve to a higher grade?

    Still wondering on how to level his [Soul Perception I] skill, the disembodied voice that resounded throughout the hall disrupted his thoughts.

    ¡°The second world, Mirage, has been casted.¡±

    ¡°Transferring the inheritor to the illusion world.¡±

    Whoosh!

    Without even a single moment of respite to prepare, Aurus disappeared from the hall in an instant, transported to an illusion world just like the first one, which who knows where it was.

    ¡­

    XXXX Continent, Seraph Kingdom, Arcana Tower.

    A few hours after calling Jihan about a piece of high quality wood that was inclined to the Wood element.

    It was already night time in the Seraph Kingdom, nheless, the mages and magic-rted sses within the Arcana Tower did not mind this all, continuing onwards with their day-to-day duties, whether it be created new magic spells, or enhancing their abilities in order to rank up to a higher ss, everything went on as usual.

    At these moments, Dane was still engrossed in his thoughts after steeling his mind to craft a new Wind elemental spell to infuse into the piece of wood before it bes a weapon.

    ¡°At most, I can only make a Wind elemental spell of the 4th Circle, any higher than that and I won¡¯t be able to control it anymore,¡± Dane muttered to himself as a rough idea of the parts of the magic incantation appeared in his mind.

    As a Rank 4 High Mage of the Arcana Tower, Dane had lots of experience modifying multiple magic spells into enhanced versions, not to mention, creating a few original spells himself. While he was polishing the magic incantation in his mind, a voice resounded inside his mind, interrupting his focus.

    ¡°Sir Dane, the thing you want has been delivered.¡± The voice that resounded inside his mind had a bit of an Eastern ent, letting Dane know who it was at the first syble. Not minding the fact that he was interrupted while he was crafting the spell, Dane stood up and went towards the entrance of the 40th floor, where everyone who didn¡¯t get a permission from a Rank 4 High Mage or higher would stay at.

    Casting a movement boosting spell on his feet to reduce the time needed to traverse therge floor, it took Dane only a couple of minutes to arrive at the doorway,ing face-to-face with a slightly scrawny man that had an effeminate face, making a lot of men mistake him as a girl.

    Of course, only Dane was able to see this. For others, this face was covered by a ck hood. ¡°Hello, Sir Dane. I have the thing you requested.¡± The man looked at Dane for a bit before handing a small box to him. This man was Jihan, the one Dane called about the recement for the Spiritas.

    ¡°Thanks, how much does it cost?¡± Dane asked. He knew about Jihan identally back then when he was just a Rank 1 Lesser Acolyte, trying to find a cheap ce to buy magic items. After this, he knew that Jihan sold legitimate items at a cheaper price, hence being the first person he would contact.

    ¡°3000 gold coins,¡± Jihan replied without hesitation. Looking at Dane¡¯s face that had a neutral expression, he continued, ¡°This wood is known as the Gale Dragon Wood. This type of wood is only found on the outskirts of the eastern part of the continent, showing great affinity with wind and wind magic. I also appraised this piece of wood before I came here, and it also showed faint signs of a soul forming!¡±

    With his interest piqued by thest sentence, Dane didn¡¯t hesitate to use his mana to control a small satchel filled with gold coins under the desk in his room towards where he was, giving it to Jihan afterwards after counting the coins within it. ¡°There you go, 3000 gold coins. I know you only give legitimate items so I won¡¯t doubt this piece of wood. Oh, and also if you find any hints regarding a Magic Crystal, please let me know. I¡¯ll buy the information from you at a good price, since we have a good rtionship.¡±

    Weighing the satchel filled with gold coins with a smile on his face, Jihan nodded and replied, ¡°Thanks for a good trade. Also, don¡¯t worry. I have argework of connections around the continent so once any sign of ites out, you¡¯ll be the first one I inform.¡±

    After that, Jihan slightly bowed in front of Dane before turning around and leaving the tower. As for Dane, he went back to the room on the current floor and sat down on a nearby chair before opening the box he received on a desk.

    Looking at the wood that was slightly tinted green, Dane let out a soft smile and muttered, ¡°Let¡¯s focus on making that spell then.¡±

    ¡­

    Whoosh!

    ¡°Agh¡­¡± Since he wasn¡¯t prepared to be teleported once more, Aurus had a splitting headache again, or should it be called a splitting soul ache? Either way, thanks to his newly obtained [Illusion Resistance], he was able to regain his rationality and logicality at a faster time whenpared to before.

    Looking around with his [Soul Perception I] skill, he was currently in the middle of a slightlyrge vige, with the basic necessities of a vige being met with a farm, a well, and a few huts being seen around him.

    What was weird though was that there were no people inside this vige, as if they left all of a sudden. The huts and the buildings weren¡¯t damaged in any way, which gave the current sight anotheryer of the creeps.

    Nheless, Aurus did not mind this and decided to use the first method once more, activating [Gale Hover] and heading towards the boundary of the illusion.

    Whoosh!

    Within 10 minutes or so, Aurus arrived at the boundary of the illusion, only for the escape to not be there, instead bouncing Aurus back to the boundary of the illusion rather than letting him escape.

    Seeing that the first method did not work this time, it meant that the second method would not work as well, unless he was insanely lucky.

    ¡°Guess I¡¯ll have to think out of the box this time.¡± Aurus felt that the difficulty of the second world increased not just by a notch, but by multiple notches.

    He decided to head back to the vige where he first appeared and activated [Gale Hover] once more, seeing that the spell was now off cooldown.

    Relying on his sense of vision, Aurus could see that the vige was gradually getting bigger and bigger as he got nearer until¡­

    Poof!

    Just like magic, it disappeared without a trace, only leaving a plot of empty grasnd in its ce.

    Landing on the ground, Aurus was perplexed at the current situation. With one of his leads gone, he had no idea on what to do next.

    ¡°Wait¡­¡± Aurus felt that he realized something was wrong. ¡°What was the name of this world again?¡±

    Recalling the name after a bit, Aurus finally remembered the name. ¡°Ah, Mirage.¡±

    ¡°I must probably be incredibly stupid to believe that with a world name like that, everything I see would be real.¡±

    ¡°I think I have an idea on what to do next thanks to this.¡±<!--

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 Chapter 54

    Chapter 54: Perceiving the Truth

    Looking at the surroundings around him, he started to conjure a crude magic circle within his Spell Core, consuming only a small part of his SP due to the upgrades to his SP Storage and Energy Core.

    ¡°[Spirit Detection (Wind Variant)]!¡±

    Whoosh!

    This was the first idea that came into Aurus¡¯ mind after fully understanding the current illusion world he was in. Other than [Soul Perception I] that allowed him to see, hear, and sense everything around him, [Spirit Detection (Wind Variant)] was the only other skill¡­or rather, spell that allowed him to sense anomalies within his surroundings. To be honest, the radius of detection for this spell exceeded the range of his [Soul Perception I] skill, but whenpared to the other spells he might learn in the future that could also detect anything within a set radius, it was iparably small.

    Nheless, it was the only other spell he had to detect. Closing his sense of vision and rely on the effect of the spell, he noticed that there was no anomaly at all on the ground he was currently standing on¡­well, lying on. Opening his sense of vision, he couldn¡¯t help but frown inwardly. ¡°Well that¡¯s weird, there was a mirage of arge vige here a while ago. How could I not sense any anomaly here?¡±

    Thinking about it further, Aurus couldn¡¯t help but feel that he was thinking about it the wrong way. He decided to not rely on the memories he had about the game, but instead, relied on the memories he had on what he learned in school.

    Although he was only 16 years old before he died, the lessons he learned throughout school also tackled mirages, hence he tried to recall the meaning of a mirage.

    ¡°A mirage¡­is an illusion in itself ording to science. It is something that appears to be there while not being there due to light rays being refracted at a weird angle, discing the view towards a farther distance.¡±

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡± Aurus thought about the definition of mirage a bit more and got to a conclusion. ¡°Ah. To probably escape this illusion world, I must find the origin of this mirage.¡±

    Realizing this, he couldn¡¯t help but feel despondent at his hopes of escaping this world at a fast speed.

    ¡°Mirages appear extremely far from the origin of their view, which means that this world is extremelyrge. I¡¯ve traversed towards the boundary before, but it might be because the distance between me and the boundary I went to is extremely short whenpared to the other boundaries, hence taking less time.¡±

    ¡°If only I had a way to see where the light particles that make up the miragee from,¡± Aurus couldn¡¯t help but sigh in despair. He tried using [Spirit Detection (Wind Variant)] a few more times, but only resulting to naught. He still saw no anomaly around him at all, which couldn¡¯t help but let him feel that he was going to take an extremely long time to escape this world.

    Slightly going crazy at his current situation, Aurus couldn¡¯t help but shout out at the loudest voice he could muster from his soul, ¡°If only I can see everything!¡±

    Bang!

    Screaming at the loudest he could made him feel light-headed, but it sparked a bit of inspiration into Aurus¡¯ mind, an idea that instantly blossomed after remembering the description of a certain skill he had.

    Although he was uncertain that the description he remembered was true, he had to give it a shot, or else he would truly take a long time to escape.

    ¡°I-Identify [Soul Perception I],¡± Aurusmanded, his voice slightly stuttering at the fear of his hopes being crushed.

    Ding!

    The ever familiar sound he would hear when the system followed his orders, it felt like a judge¡¯s gavel passing out judgement to him at this current moment. Slowly raising his field of vision to look at the screen that appeared in front of him, he read all of the words written on it one by one.

    ¡°Yes!¡± Aurus couldn¡¯t help but shout out in joy that his hopes might not be crushed after all!

    ________

    [Soul Perception I] (Level 1/5)

    Experience: 9/10

    A skill obtained by those who are gifted in the soul, this skill allows the user to sense EVERYTHING in their surroundings within a set radius.

    Current radius: 5 meters

    ________

    The word that he wanted to see became emphasized once he read through the contents of the screen. He knew that the descriptions of the skills would always be true, hence he knew that his idea would be feasible.

    Looking at the surroundings around him, he shouted out loud in his mind, ¡°[Soul Perception I]!¡±

    Whoosh!

    Although he shouted the name of the skill out in his mind, thus activating this passive skill, there was no difference to his surroundings at all. After seeing that there was no difference, Aurus then calmly changed his mindset towards the surroundings, thinking that he could see the direction of every light particle that went towards his way.

    And then¡­there came the difference.

    In an instant after changing his mindset, if his previous view waspared to looking at the surroundings like a normal person, then the current view he could see wasparable to the sight of a cultivator from those eastern fantasy novels. Although the radius of what he could see was now limited by the limits of his passive skill, it was nheless extremely useful as he could see the faint traces of the trajectories of the various light particles that made up the mirage that he saw a while ago.

    Ding!

    Unexpectedly, a notification screen appeared in front of his field of vision, to which Aurus prompted looking at before he followed the trajectories of the light particles.

    After reading the content of the notification screen, he couldn¡¯t help but feel happy as he said to himself, ¡°Sess!¡±

    ¡®A secret function of the passive skill [Soul Perception I] has been discovered!¡¯

    ¡®The description of [Soul Perception I] has been changed to amodate this secret function.¡¯

    ¡®[Soul Perception I] has leveled up.¡¯

    In an instant, the radius of what he could see in his current mode of vision was increased, making him feel that this skill was going to be extremely useful after he maxed its level and evolved it into a higher form.

    Looking at the specific trajectories of the light particles that made up the mirage he previously saw, he then casted [Gale Hover], making him gradually float off the ground, and then following the trajectory of the light particles towards its origin.

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    With his movement speed being boosted by 150%, it took around half an hour to find the origin of the mirage, which was¡­definitely surprising to say the least.

    ¡°Eh?¡± With the gap between the origin of the mirage and his body being only a few meters apart, he could clearly see the origin of the mirage, which was¡­

    A miniature vige.

    To be exact, it was more of a vige model rather than a vige made for dwarf people. Nheless, he shrugged off this idea after seeing that it was the origin and came closer to this miniature vige.

    Fwoosh!

    In an instant, the miniature vige gradually gave off a bright light that covered his body, making himugh loudly at the current view.

    ¡°Finally! I can get out!¡±

    Afterwards, Aurus disappeared into thin air within the illusion world, who was now definitely prepared to be teleported to another space.

    ¡­

    Whoosh!

    Just like magic, Aurus appeared in the center of the green jade hall that now felt nostalgic in front of him since he was now used to its current sight.

    While he was basking in his happiness of getting out of the illusion world, the disembodied voice that always gave an announcement, didn¡¯t care about Aurus¡¯ current feelings as it resounded throughout the hall.

    ¡°The second world, Mirage, has been escaped from in a time of 32 minutes and 43 seconds. Score grade: A.¡±

    ¡°As a reward, the experience needed to level up [Illusion Resistance] has been filled, thus levelling up [Illusion Resistance].¡±<!--

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 Chapter 55

    Chapter 55: Weaving Through Distortion

    ¡°The second world, Mirage, has been escaped from in a time of 32 minutes and 43 seconds. Score grade: A.¡±

    ¡°As a reward, the experience needed to level up [Illusion Resistance] has been filled, thus levelling up [Illusion Resistance].¡±

    Ding!

    After the disembodied voice was finished announcing what it had to announce, it was then followed up by the notification sound of Aurus¡¯ system as a notification screen popped up in front of his field of vision.

    ¡®[Illusion Resistance] has leveled up.¡¯

    ¡°Hoh?¡± Aurus couldn¡¯t help but feel that the inheritance is quite generous in its rewards. If the next world he escaped from would give him another level up on [Illusion Resistance], then he might be able to evolve it before he enters the next world, assuming that it¡¯s a skill of the C-grade Mortal.

    ¡°You know what? I won¡¯t cut losses.¡± Of course, Aurus knew that the [Illusion Resistance] skill did what was written on the title, which was give to a resistance to illusions to Aurus. But sometimes, being nonchnt on the effects of his skills would possibly lead him to a downfall in the future, not knowing how to synergize skills or something.

    ¡°Identify [Illusion Resistance].¡±

    Ding!

    ________

    [Illusion Resistance] (Level 2/3)

    Grade: C (Mortal)

    Illusion, a reality created by a person¡¯s imagination. It exists and it doesn¡¯t exist at the same time, with some able to create a connection with reality and illusion. This skill reduces the chances of you falling into an illusion, and if you do get into an illusion, your chances of escaping is boosted.

    ________

    ¡°Well that description seems pretty vague,¡± Aurus couldn¡¯t help but say after reading the description of the skill. ¡°It reduces my chances of falling into an illusion, and if I do get sucked into one, my chances of escaping are far greater than those who don¡¯t have this skill?¡±

    Aurus then started to think of the possible evolutions of this skill, ranging from nullifying his chances of entering an illusion, to possibly reflecting the illusion back to the caster while being unharmed. ¡°I think it¡¯s a good thing that it¡¯s only C-grade since it has plenty of room to grow.¡±

    His nonexistent eyes then lit up as he could still vividly remember the discovery he made in the previous illusion world. ¡°Hehe! Who knew that [Soul Perception I] could actually be used like that!¡±

    ¡°Identify [Soul Perception I].¡±

    Ding!

    ________

    [Soul Perception I] (Level 2/5)

    Grade: C (Mortal¡ªSpecial)

    A skill given to those that have extremely strong souls whenpared to their peers. This skill allows them to see everything within a set radius. The sight that the user sees will depend on what the user wants to see.

    > Using this skill passively will allow the user to see ten times beyond the current radius

    > Using this skill actively by wanting to selectively see something would limit the user¡¯s vision to the current radius

    Current radius: 10 meters

    _______

    ¡°Oh.¡± Aurus now understood the special function of the skill. ¡°So if I wanted to see everything around me as the individual particles that make up my view, I can do that.¡±

    Of course, as he said this, Aurus changed his mindset to perceive everything as tiny particles that are connected together through bonds, even going so far as to seeing like this whenever he looked at his body.

    Whoosh!

    As if it were a virus, the view around him instantly shrunk to the skill¡¯s current radius which was ten meters and allowed Aurus to see each particle that made up his surroundings.

    Seeing that anything was possible, he deactivated this view and went back to using the skill passively, allowing him to see the entirety of the green jade hall once more.

    Whoosh!

    ¡°I now know how to level this skill up,¡± Aurus couldn¡¯t help but say as his nonexistent eyes gleamed. Although it was still useful in its current state, he wanted everything to be better.

    ¡°I¡¯ll also ask the system about the Special word after the Mortal grade after I finish this next illusion world.¡±

    Just as he was going to wonder why the disembodied voice was taking so long to let him enter the third world, coincidentally, the disembodied voice resounded throughout the hall all of a sudden as Aurus felt a sucking force enveloping his whole body.

    ¡°Haha! I was prepared for you, bitch!¡± Aurus couldn¡¯t help butugh as the words of the disembodied voice entered his sense of hearing as he instantly disappeared from the center of the green jade hall.

    ¡°The third world, Distortion, has been casted.¡±

    ¡°Transporting the inheritor to the world.¡±

    ¡­

    In another green jade hall.

    Whoosh!

    A branch that had cuts and scars all over its body as it was covered in some sort of viscous crimson red fluid, suddenly appeared in the center of this specific green jade hall.

    Looking around its surroundings, it couldn¡¯t help but heave a sigh of relief inwardly as it knew that its second trial was over. This branch was Herellia, who was trapped inside a world filled with incessant enemies that came to attack her at any given time.

    ¡°I¡­I seeded¡­¡± Herellia said to herself inwardly as she tried to recover whatever was recoverable. As she was doing this, the disembodied voice, that always came at either at a coincidental time or at a bad time, resounded throughout the hall.

    ¡°The second trial, the Endurance trial, has beenpleted. The inheritor has survived for 5 days within that world and killed a total of 941 enemies. Score grade: S.¡±

    ¡°Since the inheritor has achieved such an exemry score, the next trial¡¯s difficulty shall be reduced. Also, the inheritor shall receive a random reward from the inheritance.¡±

    ¡°Reward is being randomly picked by the inheritance¡­¡±

    ¡°Reward has been picked. The active skill [Stick Regeneration] has been rewarded to the inheritor.¡±

    Ding!

    Of course, with Herellia having a system just like Aurus thanks to the blessings of the god that gave her the system, the Goddess of Kinship, Herellia was able to hear this notification sound as a screen appeared in front of her vision.

    ¡®The active skill [Stick Regeneration] has been obtained.¡¯

    Herellia read the words of the skill and felt that it was familiar to her. Closing her sense of vision and recalling the thought, a spark appeared in her mind and made her let our an extremely cheerful aura.

    ¡°This is¡­¡± Herellia couldn¡¯t believe that the inheritance would give the skill so easily.

    ¡°This is the healing skill Aurus was talking about!¡±

    ¡­

    Whoosh!

    Aurus was instantly teleported into another illusion world. This illusion world was extremely befitting of the name ¡®Distortion¡¯. The sights everywhere were extremely skewed or deformed, may it be trees, nts, the sky, the sun, or even the buildings around where Aurus appeared.

    That¡¯s right, just like in the ¡®Mirage¡¯ illusion world, Aurus was in the middle of a vige once more, with huts and the basic necessities easily visible, albeit skewed and twisted in a way that you wouldn¡¯t recognize it as a vige.

    Aurus opened his eyes and instantly felt cool-headed and rational since he was prepared for the teleport, not needing to take time to regain his rationality and logicality.

    Looking around his surroundings, Aurus couldn¡¯t help but exim, ¡°Wow. If this was some sort of interactive abstract art in an art gallery, then I¡¯d get rich if I sold this.¡±

    ¡°Too bad that this is all just an illusion. Plus, it¡¯s definitely confusing,¡± Aurus continued before closing his sense of vision.

    Since he remembered that the name of the world was ¡®Distortion¡¯, all of his surroundings were distorted to a great degree, even his body was not spared from this, making him extremely dizzy.

    Thus, he changed his mindset to view everything in a way that didn¡¯t let light refract any of the things he saw. Indeed, just like the mirage, this distortion was not a physical distortion, but rather an optical one. Aurus passed through one of the distorted buildings as if it wasn¡¯t there, getting to this conclusion.

    Whoosh!

    As Aurus opened his eyes, the view around him was as if nothing unusual was happening at all. Everything seemed normal at all. But of course, Aurus knew that he had to find the cause of this distortion, just like how he had to find the origin of the mirage in the previous illusion world.

    Casting [Gale Hover] on his body, he gradually hovered off the ground as he relied on his active [Soul Perception I] skill to try and find the origin of the distortion.

    ¡°I hope I find the cause for this distortion in a short amount of time.¡±

    Ding!

    ¡°Oh hey, [Soul Perception I] leveled up! Sweet!¡±<!--

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 Chapter 56: Deception and Limit

    Chapter 56: Deception and Limit

    Within the Celestial ne where multiple higher beings reside.

    As of the moment, Kurohana was zooming her way towards Familia¡¯s ne in order to silence Familia on the whereabouts and purpose of her world before she spreads it to other gods. Kurohana knew that her reputation as a renowned craftsman would be tarnished if the other gods knew about it.

    Whoosh!

    With this thought in her mind, she strived to fly faster through the Celestial ne. At the moment, she was already flying at a speed of 50 light years per second, which is already an extremely fast speed whenpared to the other gods, who at the minimum could fly at a speed of 5 light years per second.

    Nheless, Kurohana knew that her speed was just a joke to the gods that mastered either thews of wind or thews of space. With thosews being mastered by the gods, they could traverse the Celestial ne at a speed of at least 5000 light years per second, even going up to speeds of over 50,000 light years per second!

    ¡°Then again, I¡¯m the Goddess of Reincarnation. I don¡¯t specialize in this area, but rather specialize in deception and illusions.¡± Kurohanaforted herself with this thought as she continued to fly through the Celestial ne. As she said this to herself, she then thought that her current appearance was unsightly although many gods have seen this appearance already.

    And so, being the Goddess of Reincarnation that allows living beings to live through different vessels, she manipted her body to be taller as her body became entuated at the right ces, as her face became a bit more mature.

    At this moment, if Aurus were to look at Kurohana, he wouldn¡¯t feel a vibe of her being some sort of little sister, but rather, a mature woman that had a radiant and perfect beauty, which were like the Roman and Greek goddesses of Aurus¡¯ previous life.

    ¡°Alright,¡± Kurohana said to herself as her voice, which was light and cheery before, became slightly lower as there was a tinge of seductiveness mixed within. This transformation only happened within the span of a tenth of a second, since Kurohana mastered thew of reincarnation, which had the lesserw of appearance added into it.

    After that, she tried to boost her speed once more, but was only able to reach a speed of 55 light years per second. In the end, she couldn¡¯t help but sigh and be contented with her current speed, although she knew that every second counted when ites to these problems.

    ¡°Familia, if you spread my secret, you¡¯re going to die without a fucking corpse.¡±

    ¡­

    Within the illusion world named ¡®Distortion¡¯.

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    With Aurus activating his [Soul Perception I] skill to look at his surroundings without all of the light refracting his view, for the most part, everything around him seemed normal. He also tried to roll through the vige huts that were many sizes bigger than him, and expectedly failed when he did this, unlike just passing through the distortions a while ago.

    Of course, after traversing the whole vige where he first appeared, he confirmed that there was nothing at all with the vige. He then decided to head out of the vige since he confirmed that there was nothing weird within the vige.

    First, he activated his [Gale Hover] spell and headed towards the boundary of the illusion world and tried to escape through this method, only to fail with his expectations not being lowered at all. He knew that this method of escape would only work when the caster of the illusion was not great at hiding the illusion¡¯s escape route.

    Nheless, there was another purpose for this journey, and that was to gauge the size of the illusion world. ¡°From the time it took me to get from where I was to right now, I would say that this illusion world is around 50% bigger than the previous illusion world I entered.¡±

    With this, he knew that he was going to take a longer while to escape this world, hence he used a shortcut at this moment of time, just like how he did in the previous illusion world.

    ¡°Think that everything around me is undistorted and the light particles that are distorted by the cause will have their trajectories that trace back to the cause seen clearly by me, while not disrupting the clearness of the previous thing I just said,¡± Aurus said to himself as his mindset was changed in an instant. To be honest, Aurus said this to himself in quite a roundabout way, although the [Soul Perception I] skill understood it extremely well.

    As he looked at the surroundings around him, a huge influx of information entered his soul and gave him a piercing pain that made him want to howl. Gritting his nonexistent teeth, he couldn¡¯t help but say, ¡°I guess there are limits to the ¡®everything¡¯ on what I can see through [Soul Perception I].¡±

    Ding!

    While trying to endure the torturous pain brought by his changed view, a notification screen appeared in front of Aurus¡¯ field of vision as the pressure the new view gave him was slightly decreased, while the radius of what he could clearly see was increased.

    ¡®[Soul Perception I] has leveled up.¡¯

    Instantly feeling the effect of the level up, Aurus couldn¡¯t help but let out a sigh of relief as the aura he exuded a while ago which was filled with pain, was now changed to an aura filled with slight calmness within the pain.

    ¡°I shouldn¡¯t waste my time gritting my teeth and enduring the pain since the skill levels up anyway,¡± Aurus said to himself as he knew that he could possibly see more once he maxes out [Soul Perception I] and evolves it.

    Casting [Gale Hover] once more, he followed the trajectories of the light particles that traced back to the cause of the distortion and was surprised at what he saw when he did find it.

    ¡°What the¡­a ss prism?¡± Aurus was at a loss for words. Indeed, what was in front of him was a ss prism, but it was no ordinary ss prism. This ss prism was half the size of one of the huts a while ago. An item used by Isaac Newton multiple times to show light, was actually used as a tool to distort reality.

    Getting closer to this inexplicablyrge ss prism, he felt that the rays that were refracted through the ss prism were now enveloping his body, unlike the previous illusion world where the cause of the anomaly within the illusion world gave off the light that allowed him to escape.

    A few secondster, a myriad of colors fully covered Aurus¡¯ body as this light gradually became smaller¡­and smaller until¡­

    Aurus was gone.

    ¡­

    Within the green jade hall.

    Whoosh!

    Aurus returned his view back to its passive state, allowing him to see the ever familiar walls of the green jade hall that surrounded him. He couldn¡¯t help but look at the [Soul Perception I] skill in a new light. If it wasn¡¯t for him discovering the true purpose of this skill, he wouldn¡¯t be able to escape the past two illusion worlds that quickly. But if he never had that skill in the first ce, he wouldn¡¯t even have the ability to see the world in those views, even going so far as to clearing this inheritance to its end.

    Of course, after Aurus escaped from the illusion world, the disembodied voice resounded throughout the hall as it announced Aurus¡¯ rewards.

    ¡°The third world, Distortion, has been escaped from within a time of 29 minutes and 37 seconds. Score grade: A.¡±

    ¡°As a reward, the experience needed to level up [Illusion Resistance] has been filled.¡±

    Ding!

    Not to mention, for every announcement the disembodied voice gave, the notification sound that came from his system would sound off after the announcement as a screen appeared in front of his field of vision.

    ¡®[Illusion Resistance] has leveled up.¡¯

    ¡®[Soul Perception I] has leveled up.¡¯

    ¡®[Illusion Resistance] and [Soul Perception I] have both reached the MAX level.¡¯

    ¡®[Illusion Resistance] and [Soul Perception I] have met the necessary requirements and are ready to evolve.¡¯

    Of course, he expected [Illusion Resistance] to reach its max level after clearing this illusion world, but he wasn¡¯t expecting [Soul Perception I] to reach the max level as well. But he was not angry at all with this oue, because he knew that he would be relying more on the evolved form of [Soul Perception I] in the future.

    With a cheery aura surrounding him, hemanded, ¡°Evolve [Illusion Resistance]!¡±

    ¡°Evolve [Soul Perception I]!¡±

 Chapter 57: Fourth World, Power

    Chapter 57: Fourth World, Power

    Ding!

    Without skipping a heartbeat¡­well a nonexistent heartbeat, a screen appeared in front of Aurus¡¯ field of vision which showed Aurus the possible evolutions for the skills he wanted to evolve. Of course, with himmanding the system to evolve [Illusion Resistance] first, the first screen he got showed the choices for the [Illusion Resistance] skill¡¯s evolution.

    ________

    Please choose the skill that [Illusion Resistance] will evolve into:

    [Greater Illusion Resistance]

    [Illusion Reflection]

    ________

    ¡°Man, it has been a while since I¡¯ve seen this screen,¡± Aurus could not help but say as he looked at the two paths for [Illusion Resistance]. Ever since he became an A-grade Inanimate, he decided to just leave it up to the system to evolve as most of the skills he evolved nowadays didn¡¯t really have a branching path. Hence, he was slightly startled after seeing a screen appear in front of his field of vision aftermanding his system to evolve both skills.

    ¡°Identify the two possible choices,¡± Aurusmanded after inferring the effects of the two skills. ¡°If my guesses are correct, one gets me closer to bing impervious to illusions, while the other one doesn¡¯t make me impervious yet, but allows me to retaliate back to the one that casted the illusion.¡±

    Ding!

    Not long aftermanding the system, two screens that showed details on the two choices appeared in front of the choice screen, allowing Aurus to see both of them at the same time.

    _______

    [Greater Illusion Resistance]

    Grade: B (Mortal)

    You are now resistant to lower leveled illusions, while higher leveled illusions seem easier to escape. There is an extremely small chance for you to nullify the casted illusion.

    _______

    _______

    [Illusion Reflection]

    Grade: B (Mortal)

    In exchange for having the same resistance to illusions at the level of the C-grade version of this skill, you now have a slight chance to reflect the illusion casted on you, back to the caster.

    _______

    After reading through both of the skills¡¯ descriptions which was thankfully short due to the option of ¡®Short evolution and skill info¡¯ being enabled by the system, one of the skills caught his eye and basically made Aurus adamant on choosing that skill.

    ¡°Evolve [Illusion Resistance] to [Greater Illusion Resistance]!¡± Aurus did not hesitate to shout out as he was the only one within the green jade hall¡­ that¡¯s if you consider the disembodied voice as a nonliving being anyway.

    Ding!

    ¡®[Illusion Resistance] has been evolved to [Greater Illusion Resistance].¡¯

    ¡°Alright, now I won¡¯t be affected by low leveled illusions, only extremely intricate illusions can affect my sense of reality right now,¡± Aurus let out a sigh of tense relief as he knew that it would be helpful for the current him who was currently trying to escape from the illusion worlds of the inheritance, which were definitely high level illusions. Nheless, after that, it would be rare for him to fall under illusions¡­unless he became an Animate, then it would be extremely useful for him.

    ¡°As for the extremely small chance of nullifying an illusion, I just hope luck smiles upon me and activates it,¡± Aurus sarcastically chuckled as another screen appeared in front of his field of vision.

    Ding!

    ________

    Please choose the skill that [Soul Perception I] will evolve into:

    [Soul Perception II]

    [Sight Perception I]

    ________

    Aftering across the two choices, Aurus did not hesitate to choose the former skill as a spark of realization came to his mind.

    ¡°[Soul Perception] is not only limited to sight, but the other senses as well!¡±

    Ding!

    ¡®[Soul Perception I] has been evolved to [Soul Perception II].¡¯

    At this moment, Aurus could not help but smile at the new evolution of his [Soul Perception] skill. Whenever he tried to change his normal view into something else, the radius at which he could effectively see has been expanded by a lot. Not only that, he felt that the pressure the changed view brought to his soul was drastically diminished. He was now looking forward to the next evolution of this skill.

    Coincidentally, at the instant Aurus was finished evolving both of these skills, the disembodied voice resounded throughout the hall as Aurus disappeared from the surface of this hall in an instant.

    ¡°The fourth world, Power, has been casted.¡¯

    ¡°Transporting the inheritor into the world¡­¡±

    ¡­

    Within the Celestial ne.

    After a time that seemed to be at around half an hour, Kurohana, who was pushing her speed to the limits of 55 light years per second, finally saw a nee into her view.

    This ne was unlike her own ne which was like a massive white cube, oh no, that was just her own tastes. The ne that was in front of her was quite open, as the ne was an ind floating along the Celestial ne.

    On this ind were multiple flora that radiated a myriad of colors. On its center was a pagoda that took a quarter of the ind¡¯s surface area as it was 99 meters in height.

    Hovering a few hundred meters away from this ne, Kurohana released her killing intent that was suppressed for a while now after recognizing the stick with Aurus being the stick blessed by the Goddess of Kinship.

    In an instant, a corporeal red aura enveloped the whole ind, dying everything in a shade of red. Although Kurohana was a master in thew of reincarnation that affected part of thew of appearance, the killing intent she showed at the moment was in fact, all of the killing intent she had umted from even before she became a Goddess.

    ¡°Familia, you bitch! Come out at this instant!¡± As Kurohana shouted these words, her voice could be heard throughout the ne in front of her, alerting the God¡­or rather, the Goddess in charge of the ne.

    Whoosh!

    In an instant, multiple crimson red tendrils that looked like vines that oozed blood, suddenly appeared on the top of the pagoda as it extended towards where Kurohana was, only stopping a few meters before her. After that, the blood red tendrils condensed into a giant cocoon, before revealing a stunning woman who wore a mboyant red dress. This dressplemented her red irises and her ruby red lips. This woman was the Goddess of Kinship, Familia.

    ¡°Ara ara¡­what are you doing here, Kurohana? Shouldn¡¯t you be in your ne controlling the reincarnation paths of the lower living beings?¡± Familia looked at Kurohana from head to toe before asking this question. She ignored the fact that Kurohana called her a bitch.

    Seeing that Familia acted oblivious, acting as if she did not know what she did in Kurohana¡¯s special world, Kurohana could not help but let out a sigh as she condensed the killing intent she radiated throughout the ne a while ago onto Familia.

    At this moment, Kurohana¡¯s irises turned crimson red, showing the other side of her bipr personality, her cruel and tyrannical personality.

    ¡°Oh? You act as if you know nothing about what you did? The fact that you had the audacity to nurture a material in my special world?¡± Kurohana flew closer towards Familia, which made the pressure Familia feel be stronger with every passing second.

    ¡°Eh? That was your world?¡± In an instant, Familia¡¯s eyes widened as she let out a confused and surprised expression before asking. ¡°I thought it was just some Lesser God or Goddess¡¯ world, so I didn¡¯t hesitate to procure a material there.¡±

    Of course, being one of the Goddesses that held one of the importantws, they wanted to get closer to the limit of strength and power, which was basically at the level of the Almighty Creator, the one that gave birth to them and everything around them.

    Although crafting a weapon did not really improve the power they wield with their bodies, it still boosted theirbat power.

    Noticing that Familia gave off a feeling that she did not really know that she intruded into Kurohana¡¯s world, Kurohana felt confused as well before retracting her killing intent. Not long after, her irises turned ck, whichpleted the previous look she had that radiated unparalleled beauty.

    Letting out a sigh, Kurohana then said and ced her hand on Familia¡¯s shoulder. ¡°Since it seems like it¡¯s an honest mistake, I¡¯ll allow your material nurturing just this once. Don¡¯t let the other gods know about my world, okay?¡±

    Familia heard Kurohana¡¯s statement and instantly became focused and nodded her head with a smile. ¡°Don¡¯t you worry! I promise that I won¡¯t spread it, ever!¡±

    After hearing Familia promise to not divulge her secrets, Kurohana let out a light smile and reverted back to her previous appearance she showed Aurus. ¡°Alright. I¡¯ll be off then.¡±

    Facing her back towards Familia not long after that, she zoomed back to her ce at a speed of 50 light years per second as her mind was now at ease.

    Familia looked at the fleeting silhouette of Kurohana with a smile before letting out a light chuckle. Within this chuckle were extremely grim thoughts which were thoroughly hidden from Kurohana.

    Heading back to her pagoda, Familia said to herself, ¡°To think that that bitch became aware of my material¡¯s existence. I wonder how shocked and infuriated she would be if she knew how many gods know the existence of her special procurement world?¡±

    Conjuring a chair out of blood red tendrils before manipting an orb toe close to her, she could not help but smile as she looked at the image within the orb, showing an image of a stick with red engravings all over its body, currently dashing through a corridor.

    ¡°Hehehe¡­with this stick as my catalyst, I think I can surpass the limit of power a Law can wield.¡±

    ¡°Would it perhaps reach the level of an Immortal Verdict?¡±

 Chapter 58: A New Form

    Chapter 58: A New Form

    Whoosh!

    A few seconds after disappearing from the green jade hall, Aurus appeared within the fourth illusion world that he had to escape. Surprisingly, Aurus did not feel any headaches at all even though he was not prepared to be teleported at that instant.

    ¡°Hm¡­is it probably because of [Soul Perception I] being evolved?¡± After a bit of thinking, Aurus thought that this was the most possible reason for him not having any stinging pain in his mind as his tolerance to pressure on his soul was greatly increased after evolving.

    He then tried to look around his surroundings and felt that something was off.

    ¡°Eh?¡± Aurus tried to look behind him but he could not do it at all, as if he was being limited. Continuing to feel that something was off, he looked at his body as he knew that his powers came from his body. In an instant, he was shocked since his body was not the Spiritas body he knew and grew ustomed with.

    At the exact moment he entered the fourth illusion world, his body was changed from a Spiritas made up of Animas into¡­

    The body of a dog!

    And no, it wasn¡¯t even the body of a wolf which is known as the ancestor of all dogs, but instead a pure, domesticated dog one would find in a person¡¯s home!

    ¡°Holy shit. How the heck did I get this body?¡± Of course, Aurus was confused since the past three illusion worlds did not affect his body at all, but only up to his view. In this fourth illusion world, not only was his view, but his body and senses were changed as well. It was basically an extreme ramp up in difficulty!

    ¡°Okay Aurus, breathe and calm down. Don¡¯t panic.¡± Aurus did not panic after realizing that he had a body of a domesticated dog that was only a meter long. Instead, he tried to connect this new situation he got into with the end goal of this fourth illusion world.

    Recalling the name of the illusion world he was currently in, Aurus started to walk forward on his four legs, albeit in a clumsy manner due to the fact that he was used to rolling or hovering.

    ¡°The fourth world is named Power. How is this rted to my current dog body?¡± After mulling over the world¡¯s name for a bit, Aurus realized what he needed to do to escape this world.

    ¡°I need to grow extremely strong. I need to be the strongest within this world,¡± Aurus said to himself. ¡°But how?¡±

    The only way he knew how to grow stronger was to kill enemies and gain experience to level up and evolve. But considering the experience he had in the past three illusion worlds, there were no beings whatsoever.

    Until now.

    Rustle¡­rustle¡­

    As of this moment, Aurus was slowly walking through a slightly sparse forest where possible enemies could be seen. All of a sudden, he heard a rustling sounde from behind him, which prompted him to turn around and look at the direction of where the sounde from, only to gasp in shock.

    ¡°What the¡­this is definitely a huge bump in difficulty!¡±

    The origin of the sound that he heard actually came from a dog that exactly looked just like him! The dog in front of him noticed Aurus and instantly went into a battle stance as it charged towards Aurus with its jaws wide open.

    ¡°Oh shi¡ª¡± Aurus, not expecting that the dog in front of him would attack him all of a sudden, relied on his survival instincts and scurried away from the vicinity, escaping from the clutches of the other dog¡¯s jaw.

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    Although the speed of his running was extremely slow, it was still manifolds faster than his movement speed as a Spiritas, even with all of the movement speed buffs added. Taking a nce behind him every few seconds or so, he could still sense that the dog that found him was still chasing him with its jaw wide open.

    ¡°Why do you have to chase me? I just want to finish this world!¡± Aurus could not help butin. To think that the first living being he found in this illusion world would be the first one to try and kill him.

    As he continued to run, he tried moving in a zigzag manner, or looped around trees, but to no avail. The dog behind him was still chasing him in hot pursuit.

    A few minutes passed by and an idea popped into Aurus¡¯ mind as he muttered to himself, ¡°I wonder if I can use the skills I obtained as a Spiritas. Can I even open the system?¡±

    Subconsciously continuing to run while the dog behind him was still chasing him, he thenmanded in his mind, ¡°Open status screen!¡±

    Ding!

    ¡°Ah!¡± Aurus could not help but exim in surprise. To think that it would work. Then again, Aurus remembered that he could use the skills he had in the previous three illusion worlds, hence it would not be weird for the system to work in this world as well.

    As a translucent screen appeared in front of Aurus¡¯ face, Aurus could not help but gasp at his current information.

    ________

    [Aurus] (Level 1)

    Experience: 0/1

    Species: Domesticated Dog

    [HP]: 5/5

    Stats:

    [Vitality]: 5

    [Attack]: 5

    [Defense]: 5

    [Agility]: 5

    Skills:

    [Bite], [Scratch]

    ________

    It took Aurus a few seconds to fully adapt to his current information, seeing that the illusion world also tampered with his system. Nheless, with him having ess to his current stats, he now knew what to do.

    ¡°To think that the answer to bing stronger was actually something I¡¯m very familiar of!¡± Aurus could not help butugh as he abruptly stopped in his tracks and hastily turned around.

    The dog that was chasing him abruptly stopped in shock as he did not expect Aurus to stop running. Not long after, the dog felt a killing intent that was aimed at itself, subconsciously taking a few steps backward in fear.

    On the other hand, Aurus looked at the dog in front of him as if he was a pile of experience. With a grin that a dog could do, he dashed towards the dog with one of his front paws up in the air as he shouted, ¡°I¡¯ll be taking your life then!¡±

    ¡­

    Within the Celestial ne.

    Kurohana took around 45 minutes to head back into her own ne as she let out a sigh of relief as she smiled while gazing off into the distance, which was a white wall.

    ¡°An honest mistake. Oh, Familia. You thought you could fool me with your innocent looks. Being the Goddess of Kinship, you have control over thew of blood, which doesn¡¯t let me detect the changes in your face easily.¡±

    She then snapped her fingers as the chair that was in front of the orb where she watched Aurus hastily went up to her. After sitting down, she then manipted the chair toe back to the front of the orb.

    ¡°Nheless, you¡¯re a bad liar. An extremely innocent facade is something I¡¯m used to already.¡±

    Calming her emotions down, she looked at the image within the orb and instantly gasp in shock. The image within the orb was still the stick who had red engravings, who was currently passing through a long corridor with ease.

    ¡°Oh fuck! I forgot to switch it back!¡± Kurohana could not help but curse. Hastily changing the image within the orb to Aurus again did she finally let out a sigh of relief. She looked at the image of Aurus for a bit who was currently fighting against a dog while being a dog.

    ¡°Damn.¡± Kurohana knew that Aurus¡¯ improvement would slightly slow down thanks to this blunder of hers. ¡°Why did I forget to change the focus of the Luck Orb back to Aurus?¡±

    Afterining for a bit that she was incredibly stupid and such, she let out a soft sigh before saying to herself, ¡°Ah, whatever. So be it. His luck will bnce out anyway.¡±

 Chapter 59: Woof to Wolf

    Chapter 59: Woof to Wolf

    Within the illusion world named Power.

    ¡°I¡¯ll be taking your life then!¡± Aurus dashed towards the dog in front of him as he raised one of his front paws up as a precursor to one of the skills his dog body has, [Scratch].

    ¡°Awh!¡± Although the dog in front of Aurus was shocked that he would retaliate against its chase all of a sudden, it was still part of the illusion world that was extremely difficult, hence Aurus would not be able to harm or kill the dog in front of him that easily.

    As if the dog was blessed with the luck of the world, the dog sidestepped to its left from its perspective just as Aurus¡¯ paw was going tond on its head.

    Whoosh!

    At that instant, the dog could not help but let out a sigh of relief as it knew that if that pawnded on its head, it would end up with it being severely injured, bing a feast for Aurus that was in front of it. But sadly¡­

    It was going to be a feast for Aurus either way.

    ¡°Awh!¡± All of a sudden, as the dog was engrossed in its thoughts, Aurus used the momentum of his descending paw to swerve his head to the right to bite down on the dog¡¯s head. Feeling the dog¡¯s snout inside his own jaw, Aurus knew that he was sessful.

    The dog tried to escape from Aurus¡¯ clutches yet Aurus did not even give the dog a chance to escape, as he did not feel any mercy for the dog in front of him. It was just part of the illusion world anyway, so why should he feel mercy?

    Chomp!

    Biting down with all of his jaw¡¯s strength, the snout of the dog was crushed into bits, making it wail loudly in pain as the crushed snout dissipated into small fragments rather than blood.

    Seeing the dog in front of him lying down on the floor, he raised his front paw once more and pressed down on the dog¡¯s head.

    ¡°Anyst words?¡± Aurus asked because it was the first dog he would kill in this world in order to be strongest.

    ¡°Woof.¡± Although the dog¡¯s snout was crushed into bits, the throat and vocal cords of the dog was not affected at all, thus letting out a bark filled with sadness and eptance.

    Feeling the dog¡¯s emotions pass through his body, Aurus remained silent before steeling himself to put more pressure onto the paw that was above the dog¡¯s head. Little by little, the dog¡¯s head gradually deformed under the pressure of Aurus¡¯ paw until¡­

    Crack!

    The sound of a skull breaking was heard before the dog gradually turned into little fragments that dissipated off into thin air.

    Ding!

    Not long after, Aurus was covered in a white fog as he felt his body gradually changing in structure as he felt more power course through his body. A few secondster, a screen appeared in front of Aurus¡¯ field of vision.

    ¡®Aurus has leveled up!¡¯

    ¡®Aurus has evolved from [Domesticated Dog] to [Rabid Dog]!¡¯

    ¡®The skill [Rage] has been obtained.¡¯

    As the fog gradually dissipated into thin air, Aurus was left standing where he was as he looked at his surroundings from a new perspective. The size of his body was slightly bigger than his previous one, being 1.5 meters long and 1 meter tall now. He then feltpelled to open his current status screen since he did level up.

    Ding!

    ________

    [Aurus] (Level 2)

    Experience: 0/2

    Race: Rabid Dog

    [HP]: 10/10

    Stats:

    [Vitality]: 10

    [Strength]: 10

    [Defense]: 10

    [Agility]: 10

    Skills:

    [Strong Bite], [Strong Scratch], [Rage]

    ________

    ¡°Eh? My power has basically been doubled just by looking at the stats?¡± Aurus was somewhat shocked although he knew that he evolved just by gaining a level. Looking a bit further, he noticed that the experience points required to level up was considerably lower than leveling up in reality, which he then thought was understandable since he was racing against time.

    ¡°Let¡¯s try out my newfound power!¡± Aurus said to himself before running at a speed that was extremely fasterpared to his previous speed. Within a few minutes, he spotted a dog that exactly looked like his previous body.

    Leaping up in the air as a way to ambush his prey, he howled loudly to grab the attention of the dog, which was sessful. Hearing Aurus¡¯ howl, the dog was petrified as it knew that a bigger dog was eyeing itself. It didn¡¯t even dare as it knew that its death was inevitable.

    Swoosh!

    A gust of air could be heard through the surroundings as Aurus¡¯ front paw swiped horizontally, aiming for the dog¡¯s head. With Aurus¡¯ boosted agility, the dog was sent flying to a nearby tree headfirst. Not long after, the dog that Aurus attacked turned into little fragments before dissipating into thin air.

    After seeing the dog disappear, Aurus opened his status screen and noticed that his experience was now filled halfway, which meant that he only needed to kill one more Domesticated Dog before leveling up once more.

    And so, he continued to run through the sparse forest.

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    ¡°I¡¯m d they didn¡¯t emte blood. I know I won¡¯t be able to handle it if they did do that,¡± Aurus said to himself as he noticed that not far away from him, was a dog that was the same size as him.

    Hastily calcting the distance between them to be around tens of meters, Aurus then slowed his steps as he went through a detour, trying to not alert the dog that was the same size as him. As he was trying to move in a roundabout way towards the dog¡¯s blind spot, a feeling that killing a dog of the same level would be better than a dog of a lower level filled Aurus¡¯ body.

    A few secondster, thanks to his careful footwork and high agility, Aurus was able to sneak up behind the dog without alerting it of his presence.

    ¡°[Rage]!¡± Aurus silentlymanded in his mind as foam started to drip out of his mouth while his eyes turned bloodshot. Not only that, the fur all over his body started to stand up, making him look like a bigger dog.

    Feeling an intrepid sense of strength coursing throughout his dog body, Aurus took a few steps before¡­leaping up into air!

    Whoosh!

    At this instant, the dog was alerted of Aurus¡¯ presence as it bent its knees, maintaining its vignce while looking at its surroundings for any sign of life. Sadly, the being it was trying to find was up in the air!

    Aurus opened his jaw widely before mping down on the dog¡¯s neck.

    ¡°Awh!¡± The dog wailed loudly as it was caught by Aurus in surprise. It tried to move its body side to side as it wanted to shake Aurus off, yet Aurus was like a parasite that was sucking its blood, not letting go.

    A few secondster, the intensity of the dog¡¯s shaking gradually became lesser and lesser until the dog stood still in its ce before dissipating into thin air as it turned into little fragments.

    After this, Aurus stood up on his four paws before feeling a fog covering his body once more. This time, the color of this fog was a faint red, as if the fog was mixed in with hints of blood. Nheless, Aurus did not care about this as he just wanted to get out of this world.

    He felt the structure of his body changing within seconds as a greater power coursed through his veins. He felt that he was significantly bigger than before, and his guesses were confirmed to be true after the fog dissipated.

    Whoosh!

    Aurus looked at his new body after levelling up to Level 3 and could not help but say, ¡°Well¡­this is a big leap.¡±

    The current size of his body was iparable to his previous body, being 5 meters long and 3 meters tall. If it was any other world, Aurus would already be considered as a monster.

    Ding!

    And not long after checking his body out, a screen appeared in front of his vision. Aurus instantly moved the screen to the side as it updated before continuing to traverse the forest with his higher agility.

    ¡®Aurus has leveled up!¡¯

    ¡®Aurus has evolved from [Rabid Dog] to [Wolf]!¡¯

    ¡®The skill [Survival Instinct] has been obtained.¡¯

 Chapter 60: Freedom!

    Chapter 60: Freedom!

    While continuing to traverse the forest in search for other dogs to kill, he took a short nce at the screen he moved to the side before opening up his status screen to see that his stats shot up by a great margin.

    Ding!

    ________

    [Aurus] (Level 3)

    Experience: 0/3

    Race: Wolf

    [HP]: 20/20

    Stats:

    [Vitality]: 20

    [Strength]: 20

    [Defense]: 20

    [Agility]: 20

    Skills:

    [Wolf Bite], [Wolf w], [Wolf Rage], [Survival Instinct]

    ________

    ¡°So my stats double for every level up and evolution I go through?¡± Aurus felt that his stats at theter levels would be extremely crazy, considering that his stats have doubled twice already since he has gone through two level ups. ¡°I wonder what¡¯s the limit for this illusion world?¡±

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    Thanks to his newly obtained [Survival Instinct] skill, he was able to sense the dogs nearby that would be considered a threat at his current level. From his senses, there were only a few of those roaming around throughout the forest, hence he could just rest easy as he continued to search for dogs to kill.

    ¡­

    A few minutes passed by and Aurus finally found a dog of the same level as his, having the race of a Wolf already. Looking at his body and the wolf in front of him, both of them looked alike. ¡°Is it because the illusion world iszy?¡± Aurus asked himself inwardly.

    In the end, Aurus just shrugged his shoulders as he noticed the wolf taking a few steps closer to him. ¡°Who cares, I¡¯m not an illusionist anyways.¡±

    As the wolf in front of him was taking its sweet time to get closer to Aurus, thinking that Aurus was some easy prey it could eat even though it¡¯s the same level, Aurus could not help but chuckle inwardly.

    ¡°[Wolf Rage]!¡±

    Whoosh!

    In an instant, his eyes turned bloodshot as foam dripped out of his mouth while his fur stood up on all ends. If one looked closely, one could see a faint red aura covering Aurus¡¯ fur.

    ¡°Hm¡­so for every evolution, the skill gets stronger as well?¡± Aurus could see the effects of the skill on his body, it was basically an upgraded version of the [Rage] skill in his previous body. The same went for the [Strong Scratch] he used to kill a Rabid Dog, which was the upgraded version of [Scratch].

    The wolf in front of Aurus noticed his transformation and knew that it wouldn¡¯t stand a chance against him if it didn¡¯t transform as well.

    So it did.

    Showing the same appearance as Aurus, it was now impossible to tell who was which. The wolf growled at Aurus, gesturing that it would not hesitate to kill him if he attacked.

    Aurusughed this threat off and dashed forward, raising his front paw as he dashed before swiping downwards to hit the wolf¡¯s spine. Sadly, the wolf predicted where Aurus¡¯ paw would hit, heading towards Aurus¡¯ blind spot before opening its jaw to¡­

    Crunch!

    Take a bite at one of Aurus¡¯ hind legs. With the strength a wolf could fully muster, Aurus¡¯ hind leg was instantly crushed into two, debilitating him of his capabilities to maneuver quickly. Surpisingly, Aurus did not feel any pain at all, instead he just felt a surreal feeling that the affected hind leg was burning.

    The wolf that bit Aurus¡¯ hind leg now looked at Aurus as if he was easy prey and proceeded to open its jaw to crush Aurus¡¯ other hind leg. Sadly, Aurus wasn¡¯t going to let that happen.

    Using his other hind leg as a pivot point, with the help of his high agility, Aurus raised his front paw and swiped at a speed that iparable to before, colliding with the unguarded wolf¡¯s neck.

    Bang!

    Although both of them had 20 points in Strength and Defense respectively, Aurus was able to use the momentum he gained from rotation and added it into his paw, resulting in the wolf flying while it was shocked.

    It crashed through one tree¡­two trees¡­three trees¡­four trees in total before stopping to a halt, embedded within the fourth tree¡¯s trunk.

    Whimpering in pain afterwards as Aurus felt the wolf¡¯s vitality gradually weakening, the wolf turned into little fragments not long after before a yellow fog appeared in front of Aurus as it enveloped his whole body.

    ¡°So that¡¯s why there was that nagging feeling in my head that it¡¯s better to kill a being of the same level.¡± Aurus finally understood.

    The yellow fog made quick work of Aurus as it hastily changed his figure to be bigger and sturdier as greater strength coursed through his veins. Not only that, he could also feel a foreign energy enter through his brain for a short instant before the yellow fog dissipated.

    Whoosh!

    If anyone looked at Aurus right now, they would think that Aurus was a beast blessed by the heavens, with his fur being silver in color as a yellow crown made out of hardened fur stuck out of the top of his head.

    Ding!

    And with another level up, the screen notifed Aurus of the changes in his body.

    ¡®Aurus has leveled up.¡¯

    ¡®Aurus has evolved from [Wolf] to [Spirit Wolf].¡¯

    ¡®The skill [Spirit Maniption] has been obtained.¡¯

    ¡®The skill [Spirit Bolt] has been obtained.¡¯

    ¡°Wait a minute¡­[Spirit Bolt]? [Spirit Maniption]?¡± Aurus felt that these skills were different from the other skills. He then opened his status screen and was exhrated to know that he could level up faster.

    Ding!

    ________

    [Aurus] (Level 4)

    Experience: 0/4

    Race: Spirit Wolf

    [HP]: 40/40

    [MP]: 40/40

    Stats:

    [Vitality]: 40

    [Strength]: 40

    [Defense]: 40

    [Agility]: 40

    [Intelligence]: 40

    Skills:

    [Spirit Devour], [Spirit w], [Spirit Wolf¡¯s Rage], [Spirit Instinct], [Spirit Maniption], [Spirit Bolt]

    ________

    ¡°I knew it! I now have ess to SP! Well, MP!¡± Aurus could not help but be happy. Since he was still trying to escape at the fastest time possible, he then dashed towards a certain direction with his doubled agility as he activated [Spirit Instinct], noticing that not only could he sense dangers, but also sense the lower beings as well.

    After a few seconds, he turned his body to face another direction as he said to himself, ¡°You shall be the first one!¡±

    Whoosh!

    After half a minute, Aurus was around 50 meters away from a lone wolf who was currently hunting for prey. Of course, Aurus did not mind the current situation of the wolf and conjured a bolt of energy through the [Spirit Bolt] skill.

    ¡°Fire!¡±

    Whoosh!

    Under the control of Aurus, the energy bolt cleanly passed through the wolf¡¯s throat, rendering it dead in an instant.

    Ding!

    Aurus noticed that a screen appeared in front of his field of vision which showed that he gained 1 experience point, rather than 3 points like what he got in the previous evolution.

    ¡°Hm¡­is it because my stats are way higher than the previous level, thus my experience gain is being diminished if I kill a being of a lower level?¡± Aurus thought about this for a bit before deciding to kill a being of the same level once more.

    ¡°Haah¡­I hope the next level is thest level before I can escape.¡± Casting [Spirit Instinct] again, Aurus was lucky to find a Spirit Wolf only 200 meters away from him. Within twenty seconds or so, the gap between the two was reduced to 70 meters, taking into consideration the Spirit Wolf¡¯s sensitivity to living beings. He then activated [Spirit Wolf¡¯s Rage] as a backup n if he ever got into a closebat fight.

    After that, he conjured an energy bolt once more before aiming at the Spirit Wolf¡¯s brain.

    Whoosh!

    In an instant, the distance of 70 meters was easily travelled by the energy bolt and almost hit the Spirit Wolf¡¯s brain, hitting the eye instead.

    Why?

    It was because the Spirit Wolf¡¯s sense of danger was activated as it sensed the energy bolting at it. It decided to take a step backwards in order to protect its most precious part.

    ¡°Awooo¡­¡± It then let out a soft howl as it grimaced in pain, trying to look for the culprit that shot a bolt at it. Sadly, the culprit was out of its passive sensing range.

    ¡°[Spirit Bolt]! [Spirit Bolt]! [Spirit Bolt]!¡±

    Not long after the first energy bolt, rather than one energy bolt following up after that, Aurus threw out three energy bolts in session, aiming to kill the Spirit Wolf with one of these three shots.

    The Spirit Wolf¡¯s sense of time was slowed down as it felt the three energy bolts aiming for his brain, his throat, and his heart. Thinking of the best possible n, it kneeled down as close to the ground, easily dodging the three bolts.

    But s, it was going to die here.

    ¡°[Spirit Bolt]!¡±

    Psh!

    The sound of a projectile passing through skin was heard. The eyes of Spirit Wolf was filled with shock as it did not know where the energy bolt came from as it passed through its throat. Having feelings of regret, it gradually lost its vitality before dissipating into thin air as tiny little fragments.

    As for Aurus, he looked at the dissipating body of the Spirit Wolf for a bit before letting out a soft smile. Not long after, his body started to glow an eye-blinding white light. He felt that his soul was being sucked away from this world and was going to be teleported to another world.

    Of course, Aurus was ecstatic to feel this as he knew that he had finally escaped the illusion world!

    Whoosh!

    At that instant, the Spirit Wolf body of Aurus in this illusion world turned limp and gradually transformed into little fragments as it dissipated into thin air.

 Chapter 61: Double Surprise

    Chapter 61: Double Surprise

    Whoosh!

    A few secondster after being teleported out of the fourth illusion world, Aurus appeared inside the green jade hall, still in the same ce he appeared whenever he finished an illusion world, the center.

    ¡°Hah! I¡¯m finally back!¡± Aurus had the urge to kiss the floor of the hall as he felt safe within the confines of this hall as nothing unexpected would happen to him. After suppressing this urge, he then pondered on the happenings within the fourth illusion world. ¡°To think that Animates can also evolve, or is it just the machinations of the illusion world?¡±

    Ever since he heard from Herellia that one of the strongest powers within the Tempest Cliff was a rock that evolved into a beast at the Animate existence level, he had his assumptions as to whether everything around had the possibility to evolve and grow stronger.

    So far, he has only seen sticks evolve, hence he could not answer that question at the moment, although he wanted to know answer real bad.

    Of course, in the midst of his contemtion, the disembodied voice resounded throughout hall as it snapped Aurus back to reality.

    ¡°The fourth world, Power, has been escaped from in the time of 18 minutes and 48 seconds. Score grade: S.¡±

    ¡°Hoh? A score grade of S? It seems that I¡¯m quite lucky!¡± Aurus could not help but exim in disbelief as the score grades he got from the previous three illusion worlds were straight A¡¯s.

    If only he knew that Kurohana identally focused on Herellia with her Luck Orb for a bit, resulting in his luck being diminished for a short while, then Aurus could not decide whether tough or cry.

    Nheless, Aurus did not know about this and was nonchnt to all of the happenings in the Celestial ne, hence he decided to listen to the disembodied voice attentively as he wanted to know what rewards a score grade of S could give.

    ¡°As the inheritor has done an exemry job in escaping the illusion world with a fast time, the reward given shall be extremely helpful to the inheritor, and it is also rted to the illusion world that has been escaped from,¡± the disembodied voice continued to speak.

    ¡°After careful consideration to the inheritor¡¯s characteristics, an Ally has been given to you!¡±

    ¡°Eh?¡±

    Ding!

    All of a sudden, a screen appeared in front of his field of vision as tiny little fragments that came from thin air coalesced into a figure that resembled a smaller Aurus.

    Whoosh!

    Not long after, after the tiny fragments coalesced to form this figure, it then transformed into a stick that was extremely corporeal as two protruding spikes appeared on the top of its body, seemingly looking like the two ears of an animal that he saw in the illusion world he escaped from.

    ¡°Dog?¡± This was the first word that came into Aurus¡¯ mind after seeing this small stick manifest beside him. Surprisingly, it rotated its body along its axis as it faced Aurus face-to-face, considering that the side that had the two protrusions was its front.

    ¡°Awh!¡± Not long after, a bark could be hears within Aurus¡¯ mind as he could feel the emotions hidden with that single bark.

    ¡°Eh? I¡¯m your master?¡± Aurus was bbergasted for a bit before deciding to look at the screen that he ignored all this time.

    ¡®The ally ¡®Fenrir¡¯ has been added to your party!¡¯

    ¡®The quality of the ally ¡®Fenrir¡¯ is S grade!¡¯

    ¡°Eh?¡± Aurus was shocked once more as he read through the information written on the screen. ¡°To think that the first ally I would get is an S-grade ally.¡±

    Just like the grades that separated the species within the same existence level, allies within the Ally system could be split into 7 grades which dictates its maximum potential in terms of evolution and speed of leveling up. From lowest to highest, these grades are: D, C, B, A, S, SS, and SSS respectively.

    Of course, Aurus did not expect much from his allies as they would only serve to boost his power, hence he didn¡¯t care about their grades. But since this ally came from the inheritance, Aurus of course thought that there was something different with this Fenrir in front of him, hence he identified it.

    Ding!

    ________

    [Fenrir] (Level 1/10)

    Potential Grade: S

    Experience: 0/5 (can be filled with unused experience points)

    Species: Wolf Stick (Rare)

    Existence Level: Inanimate

    Grade: C

    [HP]: 1/1

    [SP]: 0/0

    Stats:

    [Toughness]: 1

    [Thickness]: 1

    [Density]: 1

    Skills:

    [Wolf Dash Lv.5], [Wolf Howl Lv. 3], [Keen Senses Lv. 4]

    Ally Skill: [Blessing of the Wolf]

    ________

    Aurus could not help but click his nonexistent tongue inwardly. There was a great difference between an ally obtained from an inheritance and an ally obtained from the gacha alright.

    ¡°Just its species alone is already Rare, which is the same grade as me,¡± Aurus could not help but feel injustice at the fact that he had toil away in order to get to his species grade to Rare, while this ally beside him¡­well Fenrir, already had a Rare species at the C-grade Inanimate level! ¡°From this alone, he might be a Legendary species or even a Myth grade species!¡±

    ¡°Oh? I can infuse my unused experience points into this Fenrir?¡± Continuing to look at Fenrir¡¯s status screen that had all of its characteristics shown to Aurus as he was his ally, he decided to use some of his unused experience points to max out Fenrir¡¯s level as he had over 8000 points of it anyway.

    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!

    After deciding to infuse around 300 experience points or so into Fenrir, its level instantly shot up to 10 which was its max and a great transformation happened to Fenrir¡¯s body.

    What was once a small stick that was only about 1/5 of Aurus¡¯ size swelled up to the size of being half the size of Aurus¡¯ body, which definitely intensified the faint aura Aurus felt from Fenrir a while ago.

    Ding!

    ¡®Fenrir has reached the MAX level!¡¯

    ¡®Fenrir has met the necessary requirements and is ready to evolve!¡¯

    Looking at Fenrir for a bit, he noticed that the way Fenrir looked at him was more caring and close, since he fed him a ton of experience points in one go that allowed it to grow strong easily. Smiling inwardly, he then said, ¡°Let¡¯s go check your ally skill first before I evolve you.¡±

    Aurus did not want to check out Fenrir¡¯s skills right now since he would eventually find out once he finished the inheritance. Not long after, with amand from his mind, the information on Fenrir¡¯s ally skill was revealed to Aurus.

    Ding!

    ________

    [Blessing of the Wolf]

    Grade: C (Mortal)

    A wolf,monly known as the ruler of the forest. With its acute senses and quick movements, they are known as strong predators of the forest and will not hesitate to retaliate once you go over its limits.

    > Perception range +10%

    > Movement speed +10%

    > Attack and Vitality stat +10%

    ________

    From this skill alone, he knew that he would nurture Fenrir up to its limit as the skill was just too good for his current circumstances. With an increased perception range, he could sense enemies that give Life and Will points to him easier, with an increased movement speed, he could traverse thends easier, and with an increased Attack and Vitality stat, which referred to his [Spirit] and [Vitality] stat respectively, he could kill branches and saplings of a higher grade easily.

    Just as he was about to evolve Fenrir to the B-grade Inanimate level, the disembodied voice resounded throughout the hall, not caring Aurus¡¯ feelings.

    ¡°The fifth and final world, Second Reality, has been casted.¡±

    ¡°Transporting the inheritor to the world¡­¡±

    ¡°Ohe on!¡± Aurus was infuriated as he was just going to evolve the first ally he has ever gotten. Letting out a sigh of annoyance, hemanded the system to hide Fenrir.

    Whoosh!

    In an instant, Fenrir disappeared from the green jade hall, but was still connected to Aurus as its bark resounded throughout Aurus¡¯ mind, with curiosity hidden in its bark.

    ¡°We¡¯re going into an illusion world, buddy,¡± Aurus said to Fenrir in his mind as he slowly floated up in the air while his body started to gradually disappear from the vicinities of the green jade hall.

    A few secondster, Aurus¡¯ body was already in a semicorporeal state while he still hovered over the floor of the hall. ¡°That¡¯s weird. Why haven¡¯t I been teleported yet?¡±

    And there it happened.

    Crash!

    As if the sound of multiple wine sses being broken could be heard, Aurus turned corporeal once more as hended on the floor of the hall, his aura exuding extreme confusion.

    ¡°Eh? What the¡­? Did the teleport fail?¡± This was the first idea that came into Aurus¡¯ mind as the inheritance was already old.

    Then, the disembodied voice resounded throughout the hall.

    ¡°The fifth world, Second Reality, has been escaped from in the time of 8 seconds. Score grade: X.¡±

    ¡°EH?!¡±

 Chapter 62: An Unusable Skill

    Chapter 62: An Unusable Skill

    ¡°The fifth world, Second Reality, has been escaped from in the time of 8 seconds. Score grade: X.¡±

    ¡°EH?!¡± Aurus could not help but scream out loud at the fact that he cleared the fifth illusion world within 8 seconds. ¡°WHAT THE FUCK? I DIDN¡¯T EVEN ENTER THE WORLD YET!¡±

    Of course, other than feeling intense shock from the fact that he cleared the final illusion world within 8 seconds and did not even have to enter the world, he felt ted within, wondering about the reward he might get from a score grade of X.

    Gradually calming himself down, he then tried to recall what happened before the disembodied voice announced him clearing the fifth illusion world.

    ¡°So I first hid Fenrir, then started to hover off the ground, then turned semicorporeal for a few seconds, before turning corporeal again andnding on the ground.¡±

    ¡°Could this be because of Fenrir?¡± Aurus thought that Fenrir might have some hidden skill within its status screen, which just cannot be seen by him. After thinking about for a bit, Fenrir would not be able to do just that, not just because it has a low grade in terms of existence level, but instead, its essence. It was a wolf through and through, albeit a stick that showed some properties of a wolf. How would it have enough intelligence to nullify an illusion at its current existence level.

    Hence, there was only one answer left in mind.

    ¡°[Greater Illusion Resistance].¡± Aurus could not help but click his tongue at his current luck. To think that an effect that only had an extremely small chance of happening activated at the instant he was about to enter the final trial.

    The reason why the skill nullified the illusion in the first ce was because of Kurohana¡¯s negligence at focusing the Luck Orb back to Aurus before she left her own ne. From that, Aurus¡¯ luck within the Luck Orb was umted to a point until the orb was focused back to Aurus, gradually affecting Aurus¡¯ score in the fourth illusion world and extremely affecting his score in the final illusion world.

    After mulling over it for a bit longer, Aurus decided to ce this at the back of his head and just think of it as his good luck. Surprisingly, the disembodied voice allowed Aurus to contemte for a bit this time before continuing with its announcements.

    ¡°With the inheritor clearing the final illusion world at an unprecedented speed, the inheritor shall gain an extremely great reward from the inheritance.¡±

    ¡°After careful consideration, the inheritor shall receive the skill [Spirit Clone] as a reward.¡±

    ¡°¡­¡± Aurus was now at a loss for words. In the previous round, he got Fenrir as an ally that basically had unlimited potential, and now he had ess to a skill that would allow him to basically live another life? Or even possibly be a backup?

    Ding!

    As he heard the notification sound resound throughout the hall, he realized that he was not dreaming at all. The skill he received from the inheritance was real. He then looked at the screen that appeared in front of his field of vision. It was only one line, but it made him feel like he was on cloud nine.

    ¡®The skill [Spirit Clone] has been obtained.¡¯

    Without hesitation, Aurus opened up the skill details of newly obtained skill he got and read through each and every word of it, only to be dumbfounded and left speechless at the requirement needed to cast it.

    Ding!

    ________

    [Spirit Clone] (Level 1/2)

    Experience: 0/1000

    Grade: S (Transcendent)

    A clone, another copy of yourself where your memories, personality, body structure, everything, is copied onto another being. Although it looks like it is not you, it is still you either way.

    This skill allows the user to create a clone that they could control with their mind, effectively making it a backup body. Its form can be changed depending on the user¡¯s wishes.

    Maximum amount of clones: 1

    SP Cost: 10,000 SP

    [Note: The powers of the clone are dependent on the user¡¯s current power and the user¡¯s wishes of the clone¡¯s form. All clones start at Level 1 and at the lowest grade of their existence level]

    ________

    ¡°10,000 SP¡­¡± Aurus could not help but feel despair as if he fell from heaven in one go. 10,000 SP was an amount of energy that he could not possibly amass as an Inanimate of the A-grade, hence he had to get stronger.

    Aurus looked at his current screen and check on his current maximum SP amount that numbered beyond 700 or so. He was only around 7/20th of the way there, but that would all change once he evolved all of the skills he could evolve.

    That¡¯s right. After the second trial of Speed, he had grinded all of the skills he could grind for a timespan of 24 hours, so it was not unusual for it to bear fruit. And now, since the third trial was pretty much done with him clearing the fifth illusion world, only one trial barred his way from leaving the inheritance and growing stronger in one go as if he was soaring to the heavens in one leap.

    Of course, he would not evolve his skills at this instant since he knew that the skills he would be evolving would have choices, and he had to choose well.

    Seeing that the disembodied voice was now finished announcing what it had to announce, Aurus released Fenrir once more as it looked at Aurus with a caring aura surrounding it as it barked happily within Aurus¡¯ mind.

    Indeed, it knew that it could now evolve with nothing distracting them from doing so. Even Aurus felt this as hemanded the system, ¡°Evolve Fenrir.¡±

    Ding!

    In an instant, a white light radiated from Fenrir¡¯s body as its body started to swell size while more features of a wolf started to appear on its body. Not long after, the white light dimmed down, revealing a branch that wasrger than Aurus by around 20%, had two protrusions on the top of one end of its body, another protrusion at the edge of the same end of its body, acting as a snout while a long and thin piece of wood is seen at the other end of the body.

    If one came across this kind of branch, they would think that someone carved a crude wolf out of a piece of wood. Unexpectedly, it was a natural evolution.

    At the instant Fenrir was finished evolving, it positioned its body to look at Aurus once more, making it look like a wooden dog that had a long body rather than a wolf.

    Not long after, a young but confident voice resounded through his mind, instead of a bark.

    ¡°Master!¡± Fenrir looked at Aurus not only as an ally, but as its master as well.

    ¡°Alright!¡± Aurus was satisfied with Fenrir¡¯s evolution, noticing how it wasrger than him said that it could be a good tanker. Not only that, the aura surrounding Fenrir was only slightly inferior to Aurus¡¯ aura, who was already at the maximum level of the A-grade Inanimate level.

    He then looked at the screen that appeared in front of his field of vision when he evolved Fenrir to B-grade Inanimate as he closed it not long after.

    ¡®Fenrir has evolved from [Wolf Stick (Rare)] to [Wind Wolf Branch (Rare+)].¡¯

    ¡°Wind Wolf Branch¡­¡± Aurus pondered it for a bit before understanding why this was the next evolution for Fenrir. ¡°Fenrir is part of an inheritance that focused on the Wind element, so it¡¯s not weird for this to happen.¡±

    Not long after, he checked on Fenrir¡¯s new stats after evolving to a Wind Wolf Branch.

    Ding!

    ________

    [Fenrir] (Level 1/30)

    Potential Grade: S

    Experience: 0/10 (can be filled with unused experience points)

    Species: Wind Wolf Branch (Rare+)

    Existence Level: Inanimate

    Grade: B

    [HP]: 15/15

    [SP]: 5/5

    Stats:

    [Toughness]: 15

    [Thickness]: 15

    [Density]: 20

    Skills:

    [Wolf Dash+ Lv.3], [Wolf Empowerment Lv.2], [Keen Senses Lv. 9], [SP Storage Lv. MAX], [Wind Affinity Lv. 1], [Wind Shot Lv.1]

    Ally Skill: [Blessing of the Wind Wolf]

    _________

    After looking at the new and improved stats of Fenrir, Aurus knew that it would exceed his own stats once it reached the A-grade Inanimate level. Of course, Aurus did not miss the fact that he had to level Fenrir up for 20 more levels after evolving it into a B-grade Inanimate.

    He recalled the fact that with each evolution to the grade, an additional 20 levels would be added to maximum level of the ally. Then again, they can hunt on their own, with the user¡¯smands or without. They can also use the user¡¯s unused experience points to level up quickly.

    He also did not miss the fact that Fenrir¡¯s species was of a Rare+ grade, which meant that it was still Rare, but slightly better than Rare.

    Just as when he was going to infuse Fenrir with a bit more of his experience points, the disembodied voice resounded throughout the hall once again. Aurus could not help but frown as he felt that he was being stopped by the disembodied voice identally, but after hearing the disembodied voice¡¯s words, he fell silent.

    ¡°The third trial, the Illusion trial has been cleared.¡±

    ¡°Total time needed to clear the trial: 1 hour, 45 minutes, and 40 seconds. Score grade: S.¡±

    ¡°As the inheritor has done an exemry job in clearing the trial at a fast time, the inheritance shall now give a reward befitting of their score grade.¡±

    ¡°Rewards are being decided¡­¡±

    ¡°The rewards have been decided on. The inheritor shall gets 5000 experience points and its movement skill shall be boosted by 5 levels.¡±

 Chapter 63: Will of the Inheritance

    Chapter 63: Will of the Inheritance

    Ding!

    After the disembodied voice announced Aurus¡¯ rewards after clearing the third trial, Aurus was greeted with two lines of text on a screen that popped up in front of his field of vision.

    ¡®[Tempestuous Spiritas Glide] has leveled up five times.¡¯

    ¡®Experience +5000¡¯

    After reading through the information written on the screen, he looked at his status screen and noticed that he had over 12,000 unused experience points at the moment. He had a feeling that when he evolves to an S-grade Inanimate, he would have no need to kill branches and saplings for experience, but relying on his unused experience points to raise his level to its max instead.

    As for his movement skills being upgraded 5 times, Aurus was of course happy, considering the fact that he had the [Gale Hover] spell that boosted his movement speed by 150% and the [Tempest Burst] that doubled his movement speed on top of that.

    Not to mention, he also had Fenrir¡¯s ally skill.

    ¡°Now that I think about it, what¡¯s the effects of Fenrir¡¯s ally skill right now?¡± Aurusmanded the system to reveal information on Fenrir¡¯s ally skill, where a screen appeared in front of his field of vision not long after.

    Ding!

    ________

    [Blessing of the Wind Wolf]

    Grade: B (Mortal)

    A Wind Wolf, a variant of themon wolf that specializes in speed. Nheless, it is still stronger than a normal wolf, with its senses and speed boosted further by the fact that they are blessed by the wind.

    > Perception range +20%

    > Movement speed +50%

    > Attack and Vitality stat +20%

    ________

    ¡°Holy¡­¡± Aurus did not expect such a big jump in terms of effects from evolving Fenrir to B-grade Inanimate. Just because the Wind part of Fenrir was awakened, his movement speed that was previously boosted by 10% with Fenrir¡¯s ally skill¡­was now being boosted by 50 percent?

    He could not help but shudder inwardly at his movement speed in the future when Fenrir evolves into a higher grade, boosting the effects of the ally skill even more, or even when he evolves his movement skill to X-grade Mortal or even Transcendent grade.

    With the thought of his movement speed being boosted drastically thanks to Fenrir¡¯s ally skill, Aurus took a glimpse at his current movement speed and started to calcte in his mind.

    ¡°With [Tempestuous Spiritas Glide] at Level 11, I can currently move at a speed of 350 meters per hour. With Fenrir¡¯s ally skill in effect, that¡¯s boosted to 525 meters per hour. And with [Gale Hover] and [Tempest Burst] activated, I can move at a speed of¡­¡±

    After calcting his movement speed that took all of those buffs into consideration, Aurus was at a loss for words. From his speed in the second trial that only went as far as 1.55 kilometers per hour, this was now boosted to a maximum speed of 2.62 kilometers per hour. More or less, it was already double his previous maximum speed after activating all of the buffs.

    After calcting all of that, he ced it in the back of his mind as he said, ¡°I can already move at a speed of over 500 meters per hour with Fenrir¡¯s ally skill always in effect.¡±

    That was the advantage of having an ally. Even with the ally being hidden from others, their ally skills would still be in effect.

    Surprisingly, the disembodied voice resounded throughout the hall after Aurus was finished with his calction, as if it was now respecting Aurus¡¯ time.

    ¡°The fourth and final trial, Will of the Inheritance, shall begin in 30 seconds.¡±

    ¡°The inheritor shall pass through the entrance that would appear inside the green jade hall not long after, and the inheritance shall deem whether the inheritor is truly worthy of the inheritance or not.¡±

    ¡°Eh?¡± Aurus was quite confused. Aren¡¯t inheritances supposed to be not picky towards the inheritors? This was the first thought that came to Aurus¡¯ mind as he listened to the disembodied voice¡¯s words.

    Thinking that he was worthy of the inheritance, he decided that nothing bad would happen to him in the final trial in this inheritance. This was also the only trial left barring his way from getting [Blessing of the Tempest], which would boost his movement speed even further, and [Stick Regeneration], a healing skill he really needed if he were going to fight branches and trees of the higher grade more often.

    Seconds passed by without Aurus noticing. Once the 30 seconds were up, the disembodied voice resounded throughout the green jade hall once more as a doorway appeared on one side of the green jade hall, leading to a long corridor.

    ¡°The fourth and final trial, Will of the Inheritance, has now begun.¡±

    ¡°May I ask the inheritor to pass through the entrance that appeared inside the green jade hall.¡±

    After hearing the disembodied voice¡¯s announcement, Aurus hid Fenrir through the system and activated his [Gale Hover] spell before heading towards the doorway and passing through the long corridor that followed after.

    The long corridor only took Aurus around three minutes or so to traverse to the end thanks to Aurus¡¯ newly boosted movement speed, greeting him to a wonderful sight afterwards.

    After exiting the long corridor, Aurus saw what was basically a miniature ecosystem within arge hall. From what he could see, the hall he was currently in had a radius that was around three to five times bigger than the green jade hall, with arge river running through the center of it.

    At the far end of the hall, arge statue of an old human made out of green jade could be seen, as if it was governing over thisrge hall.

    When Aurus looked at this jade statue, he had a feeling that he waspelled toe closer to the statue, as if that was the mechanics of the fourth trial.

    And the mechanics it was.

    ¡°Please head towards the jade statue in order to start the final trial,¡± the disembodied voice resounded throughout therge hall, breaking Aurus¡¯ awe and admiration for the hall.

    Then again, it would serve him no purpose to dy his journey towards the jade statue if the fourth trial also counted time into consideration, just like the third illusion world.

    With the [Gale Hover] spellsting only for 2 minutes, Aurus¡¯ journey slowed down halfway, relying on his current movement speed that was boosted by Fenrir¡¯s ally skill.

    Nheless, it was still fast whenpared to other sticks, taking Aurus around 8 minutes or so to traverse around 200 meters of distance. It was also the distance from the long corridor he exited from to the jade statue that was currently in front of him.

    From afar, it looked like the jade statue was only around ten meters tall, but when one was now close to the jade statue, one would realize that the statue was actually 3 times bigger than that, imposing a slightly suffocating aura on Aurus.

    Aurus stood around ten meters away from the jade statue as he tried to see the features of the jade statue¡¯s face. The statue was of an old human that had wrinkles all over his face, but his eyes exuded magnanimity, wisdom, intelligence, and the power to peer into the near future.

    Of course, that was what Aurus felt. For others, it might be different, but one thing was for sure.

    For a statue of this man to be erected in this inheritance, it meant that he was the one who created the inheritance that Aurus and Herellia were taking.

    While Aurus was engrossed in his examination of the statue¡¯s facial features, a green glow started to emanate from his body, snapping him back to reality from shock.

    ¡°Eh¡­eh?¡± Aurus was dumbfounded by the current situation. His body was unconsciously glowing a faint green light, which then extended towards the jade statue, as if the green light finally found its father or something.

    From then, Aurus¡¯ logical and rational regions in his mind kicked off and decided that he would stay in ce and wait for bizarre things to happen. If else, how would the inheritance harm him?

    A few secondster, the green light emanated by Aurus¡¯ body finally connected with the jade statue, instantly teleporting Aurus into a remote world.

    ¡°What the f¡ª¡± Before he could curse his heart out, his traces were gone from the hall, as if nothing happened.

    ¡­

    Whoosh!

    Aurus instantly observed his surroundings and let out a sigh of relief, seeing that there was no twist to this world. His sense of vision was not tampered at all, with the ground being a t green color and the walls and the ceiling being a t white color.

    ¡°Why am I here?¡± This was the first question that came to Aurus¡¯ mind. ¡°Is this also part of the final trial?¡±

    Whoosh!

    While Aurus was engrossed in his thoughts, a silhouette appeared a few meters away from him, shocking him a bit when he finally came back to reality.

    ¡°Hello Aurus!¡± An old yet energetic voice could be hearding from the silhouette, which put Aurus on guard. He took a look at the silhouette and was instantly shocked as he said to himself, ¡°Eh? Isn¡¯t he¡­¡±

    At that instant, a memory that was formed a few minutes ago appeared in his mind and confirmed what he was seeing. The silhouette in front of him was actually the jade statue¡­but humanlike!

    ¡°Do you recognize me now, Aurus?¡± The silhouette that was actually the old human Aurus saw,ughed at Aurus¡¯ vignt actions.

    ¡°Who are you? How do you recognize me?¡± In these sort of situations, it was normal for someone like Aurus to keep their guard up.

    The old human looked at Aurus for a bit before opening his mouth. ¡°I¡¯ll answer your first question for now.¡±

    Clearing his throat, he then said, ¡°I¡¯ll tell you my nameter. Anyways, I¡¯m the creator of the inheritance you¡¯re taking.¡±

    ¡°Eh?¡±

 Chapter 64: What?

    Chapter 64: What?

    ¡°Eh?¡± Aurus was at a loss for words, this being the only sound that made it out of his nonexistent mouth. He then took a few deep breaths as he tried to take in the absurdness of the situation. Noticing that his emotions were now calm whenpared to before, he then asked the old human, ¡°Are you serious?¡±

    ¡°Dead serious,¡± the old human walk towards Aurus and sat down on the green floor. He then started Aurus as if he could through all of Aurus¡¯ secrets. ¡°Do you want me to prove it?¡±

    ¡°Go ahead.¡± Aurus still held some doubts as to what the old human, hence this was a good way to prove if whether or not the old human was the creator of the inheritance.

    ¡°Your first trial was the Endurance trial, getting a score grade of A. Your second trial was the Speed trial, getting a score grade of A as well. As for the third trial, the Illusion trial, you got the score grades of A, A, A, S, and X respectively. Don¡¯t you still believe me after telling you this?¡± The old human could feel that Aurus still held some doubt to his words.

    ¡°How do I know that you just didn¡¯t listen to the disembodied voice that announced my results after the trials?¡± Aurus could not help but say. He could not help but feel dangerous vibes from the old human in front of him.

    Letting out a sigh, the old human rubbed his chin for a bit before lightly smiling. ¡°Do you want to know the results of your branch friend?¡±

    ¡°Herellia?¡± At this time, Aurus was slightly surprised. If he was able to answer this question, Aurus would then wholeheartedly believe that the old human was definitely the creator of the inheritance.

    Of course, the change in opinion within Aurus was not left unobserved by the old human, maintaining the smile on his face as he replied, ¡°Your friend¡­Herellia was it? The first trial she faced was the Illusion trial that consisted of 10 worlds, getting a score grade of S at the end.¡±

    ¡°The second trial, Endurance, shepleted that with a score grade of S as well.¡±

    ¡°The third trial, Speed, she got a score grade of S.¡±

    ¡°The fourth trial, Strength, she got a score grade of S on that, just like the previous three trials.¡±

    ¡°The fifth, and sixth trial, whose names are Power and Tactics respectively, shepleted those trials with a score grade of S as well.¡±

    ¡°Eh?¡± Aurus felt that something was off. Speaking his mind out, he asked, ¡°Why did I only have to clear 4 trials while she has to clear 6?¡±

    ¡°Oh, that.¡± The old human understood Aurus¡¯ problems. The fact that Aurus finished faster than his friend would mean that Aurus would have to wait for a long time before she got out. ¡°Remember the preliminary examination that happened before you started the trial?¡±

    After hearing this, Aurus tried to recall before he started the inheritance and gave an affirmative aura. ¡°I do. The disembodied voice told me that I had 4 Wind rted skills, upgrading the difficulty of my trial from G grade to B grade.¡±

    ¡°Now, have you ever wondered how much Wind rted skills your friend has?¡± the old human asked.

    ¡°Around double as much as I have, at the very least.¡± Aurus was very certain as he knew that it was hard to obtain skills unless obtained from an inheritance or a special event.

    The old human shook his head and replied, ¡°That number is pretty conservative. She has 14 Wind rted skills, plus the difficulty of her trials are SS grade.¡±

    From these words, Aurus was dumbfounded, not only because of the difficulty of Herellia¡¯s trial and the amount of skills she had, but the fact that she had cleared 6 trials at the same amount of time he used to clear 3.

    ¡°Oh, and also, she has to clear 7 trials, not 6,¡± the old human added.

    Letting out a sigh, he knew his chances of fully clearing the inheritance was close to nil. He now understood the purpose of this fourth and final trial.

    It was to choose the inheritor of the old human¡¯s experiences, memories, and skills.

    At this moment, Aurus could not help butugh at himself as he asked, ¡°Since Herellia is almost done with her trials, does that mean she¡¯ll inherit you have in this inheritance?¡±

    The old human remained silent for a bit before answering Aurus¡¯ question which ended up shocking him. ¡°No, she won¡¯t get the full inheritance. In fact, herst trial wouldn¡¯t allow her to see me. The fact that you can see me means that you¡¯ll be the full inheritor of this inheritance.¡±

    ¡°Eh?¡± Aurus has uttered this sound multiple times already throughout his conversation but it seemed that he wouldn¡¯t stop using it. ¡°Why is that so?¡±

    The old human then slightly chuckled at Aurus¡¯ question. ¡°Isn¡¯t that obvious? Your body exudes the Wind element while her body doesn¡¯t!¡±

    Aurus went silent for a bit as he tried to understand the meaning behind the old human¡¯s words. After a while, he couldn¡¯t help but blurt out, ¡°Is it because of our species?¡±

    ¡°Bingo,¡± the old man said. ¡°Your species is a Wind Walnut Spiritas, and hers is of a Branch Grandius Forminosus, with hints of the Blood element. Do you see any word that is rted to Wind in her species?¡±

    Aurus gave a negative aura, which meant that he didn¡¯t see anything. He then inferred from the old human¡¯s words the requirements of the inheritor to fully inherit the inheritance.

    ¡°As long as the inheritor is of a species that is rted to the Wind element, they would fully inherit the inheritance?¡± Aurus muttered to himself, only for him to see the old human nodding at him.

    ¡°That¡¯s right. Once you leave this world I made, you now have full control over this inheritance, and you have ess to all of the skills that the inheritance offers. Not only that, you can ask me any question you have at any time.¡±

    ¡°Ask any question I have at any time?¡± Aurus could not believe it. With the old human offering that up, it would not be hard for him to obtain information about the world of Animates anymore.

    Ding!

    ¡°Eh?¡± Aurus did not expect that a screen would appear in front of his field of vision while he was talking to the human in front of him.

    ¡®The skill [Sage¡¯s Knowledge] has been obtained.¡¯

    In the midst of Aurus looking at the screen that popped up in front of him, the old human intervened and actually shocked him. ¡°You obtained a skill named [Sage¡¯s Knowledge] right?¡±

    ¡°What the¡­¡± Aurus was shocked to the point the Animas that made up his body shivered. ¡°Don¡¯t tell me¡­you can see my system?¡±

    The Existence Evolution System was one of his most guarded secrets ever since he reincarnated to this world. To think that the old human would know of it?

    ¡°Your system? I¡¯ve already seen through it ever since you started the inheritance. Even your friend has a system.¡± The old human did not hide anything in his reply.

    ¡°Wha¡ª¡± Aurus could not believe it. Herellia also had a system as well? After thinking about it for a bit, he knew that it would have to happen in the first ce. ¡°Since she was blessed by the Goddess of Kinship, it isn¡¯t weird for a Goddess to bestow a system like mine on her.¡±

    Aurus let out a sigh as the old human was looking at him. ¡°Do you have any more questions?¡±

    ¡°No, none at the moment. I think all of the questions I have in my mind have been answered already,¡± Aurus replied in a despondent manner.

    ¡°Cheer up! You would have ess to a lot of skills that your friend wouldn¡¯t have ess to!¡± The old human tried to cheer Aurus up. ¡°Also, make sure to keep the vault of skills a secret.¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, although we¡¯re of the same alliance, I won¡¯t divulge this secret,¡± Aurus replied, still despondent. ¡°Anyways, can you tell me your name now?¡±

    The old humanughed for a bit before nodding his head. ¡°Alright, my name is Evinkell, once you create a Spirit Clone of yourself as a human, make sure to grow strong before meeting me.¡±

    ¡°Eh? Why?¡± Aurus had an ominous feeling from what Evinkell said to him. ¡°Use the Spirit Clone skill to create a human clone of myself, what¡¯s the reason behind that?¡±

    Evinkell¡¯s expression then turned serious as he replied, ¡°The faster you create your Spirit Clone, the better. Since I¡¯m a sage, I can peer into the future. Sooner orter, your current body will be put through hell.¡±

    Aurus could not help but shudder from Evinkell¡¯s words. Even though he did not know how his current body would be put through hell, he still felt pressure.

    Seeing that Aurus¡¯ expression was tense, Evinkell let out a sigh before saying, ¡°Don¡¯t put this into heart, Aurus. It might be years before it befalls you.¡±

    ¡°Now that I think about it, I have another question.¡± A question shed through Aurus¡¯ mind, since Evinkell was an Animate. ¡°Do Animates know that Inanimates like us are actually sentient?¡±

    Evinkell nodded. ¡°Yes, those who are extremely strong among the Animates know that Inanimates are sentient, albeit extremely rare. Even this inheritance was made for Inanimates.¡±

    He then continued, ¡°As for the majority of the Animates, that would be a no.¡±

    Since the majority of the Animates did not know they were sentient, Aurus could now breathe easy. ¡°Alright, that¡¯s all of the questions I have.¡±

    Evinkell could not feel an aura of determination radiating from Aurus, making him lightly smile. ¡°Okay then, once you leave this world, you shall now be the owner of this inheritance.¡±

    He then snapped his fingers as Aurus¡¯ body gradually became more and more incorporeal before vanishing from the world where Evinkell existed.

    Although Aurus was now gone from Evinkell¡¯s world, Evinkell¡¯s voice still resonated through Aurus¡¯ sense of hearing. His words were¡­

    ¡°Congrattions, you have fully cleared the inheritance.¡±

 Chapter 65: Owner of the Inheritance

    Chapter 65: Owner of the Inheritance

    Whoosh!

    Not a long time has passed after Aurus left the world where the creator of the inheritance he partook in, Evinkell, was located. It was only a few seconds or so before he appeared in the center of the ever familiar green jade hall that he grew to feel like it was home, albeit only clearing the inheritance in a span of few hours or so.

    But as he appeared in the center of the hall, he felt that the hall around him was familiar while at the same time not. He felt that he could peer beyonds the confines of the green jade hall and look at every nook and cranny within the inheritance. He also had a feeling that he understood theyout of the inheritance at the instant he appeared within the center of this green jade hall.

    Ding!

    Just as he was trying to get used to this odd feeling, a notification screen in front of his field of vision. ¡°Weird. What would cause the system to open a notification scre¡ª¡±

    At the instant he skimmed through the information written on the holographic screen, his mutters came to an abrupt halt due to absolute disbelief.

    ¡®The owner of the [Tempest Cliff Inheritance], Kevin, has passed the inheritance¡¯s rights of ownership to the user.¡¯

    ¡®Congrattions! User is the first Inanimate to own a building of such caliber, thus granting the user the moniker of [First Building Owner], a title which would be stuck with the User forever.¡¯

    ¡®The [Tempest Cliff Inheritance] is now under your full control.¡¯

    ¡°Eh? Evinkell actually passed the rights onto me? And his name is actually Kevin and not Evinkell?¡± Aurus¡¯ thoughts were in a disarray at the moment due to the shock that the information written on the screen gave him.

    Him! An owner of a building! Well¡­inheritance, but a building nheless!

    Even if he tried to recall through his memories the time when Inanimates gained ownership over buildings that wield such power, there was none at all! Only Animates had the powers to do so!

    So for Aurus to own an inheritance was basically adding wings to a strong tiger already! Why, you may ask?

    For inheritances also strengthen the yer¡¯s stats, just like ally skills! Not only that, they provide special uses at special times, depending on how the owner uses it.

    It took a while for Aurus to calm his emotions down and ept the fact that he was the prestigious owner of the inheritance he cleared. It was truly an ethereal feeling.

    Just as when he was figuring out what to do next, a voice resounded throughout the green jade hall. Aurus listened to it intently and was surprised that it was not the disembodied voice from before, but rather, from the previous owner and creator of the inheritance, Evinkell!

    Or should he be called Kevin?

    ¡°So Aurus, how does it feel being the owner of the inheritance?¡± Aughter followed after Evinkell finished saying that.

    ¡°It feels extremely weir¡ª¡± Aurus was about to answer Evinkell¡¯s question, only to be disrupted by Evinkell himself. ¡°Don¡¯t bother answering my questions since I can¡¯t really hear you anyway.¡±

    ¡°Nheless, I¡¯ll tell you the basics of operating this inheritance.¡±

    Evinkell lightly coughed, which was heard throughout the entire hall. He then sucked in a bit of cold air before exining, ¡°First off, you can view the attempts of other people that are clearing the inheritance, no matter where you are in the world of Erudinia.¡±

    ¡°This inheritance can also serve as a hidden fortress for such a strong Inanimate like you. I believe it will serve a good use when your current body faces perilous danger in the future.¡±

    ¡°Other than that, there is the skill vault within the inheritance and the Life and Will fountain, which allows you to grow stronger without leaving this ce if you ever so desired.¡± Evinkell chuckled not long after saying this.

    ¡°Eh?¡± Aurus was at a loss for words. ¡°Evinkell also knew about Life and Will points? How much does he know?¡±

    Coincidentally, Evinkell continued to talk after Aurus¡¯ question, as if he was replying to it. ¡°Basically that¡¯s it. If you have any other questions, just reach out to me through the skill and I¡¯ll try to answer as fast as I can.¡±

    ¡°Oh, and also, here¡¯s your reward for clearing the final trial,¡± Evinkell continued to talk as a notification sound resounded throughout the green jade hall, startling Aurus a bit.

    ¡°I think that¡¯s all I have to say. See you when you have a human Spirit Clone!¡±

    Whoosh!

    And with a gust of wind passing through the green jade hall, Evinkell¡¯s voice could no longer be heard as a screen popped up in front of Aurus¡¯ field of vision, apanied by a notification sound that Aurus heard not long ago.

    Ding!

    ¡®The skill [Blessing of the Tempest] has been obtained.¡¯

    As he skimmed over the string of words written on the holographic screen, Aurus could not help but squeal in joy.

    He finally got one of the skills he wanted!

    Not long after that, he realized that his emotions were too exaggerated as he sarcasticallyughed at himself while his rationality and logicality took over his body. ¡°What am I here squealing for? I have ess to the inheritance¡¯s skill vault. I¡¯m sure the other skill I want is in there.¡±

    Just because he got the skill that he wanted, he almost forgot the fact that he owned the inheritance where all of the skills he could possibly want were there¡­assuming that Evinkell has arge collection of techniques in there.

    ¡°I¡¯ll just ask himter when Herellia is done,¡± Aurus muttered to himself as he finally became ustomed to the feeling of seeing through everything within the inheritance.

    ¡°I wonder how Herellia is doing?¡± Aurus decided that the first thing he would do was to check up on Herellia¡¯s progress in clearing the trial. From Evinkell¡¯s words a while ago in his world, Herellia was not far from clearing the whole trial given to her by the inheritance.

    Aurus closed his sense of vision and felt a connection on the back of his head, as if it was a string tugging on the back of his nonexistent brain. He had a strong feeling that this was the connection he had with the Tempest Cliff Inheritance.

    He thenmanded inwardly, ¡°Show me a screen of Herellia¡¯s progress.¡±

    Whoosh!

    Not long after saying this order, Aurus felt a gust of wind pass through the front of his body. He then opened his eyes to see what made that gust of wind, only for him to see a screen wherein Herellia could be seen hiding behind a rock, hiding from an enemy that surpassed her strength.

    ¡°Hoh¡­it seems like the inheritance supports the system¡¯s mechanics,¡± Aurus could not help but say as he noticed the simrities between the screen he saw whenever hemanded the system and the screen he was currently looking at.

    ¡°I¡¯m surprised Herellia is still alive at this point.¡± Aurus looked at Herellia¡¯s current state and saw that the red engravings that covered her body were in utter disarray while viscous red fluid trickled from the small cuts all over her body.

    Although Aurus was somewhat used to the blood, the fact that Herellia¡¯s body was almost thered in blood made Aurus shudder inwardly for a bit.

    As he continued to watch Herellia, he noticed a green haze that covered her body as the red engravings gradually organized themselves while the cuts on her body began mending themselves as well.

    ¡°Well, what do you know. She actually got the healing skill I wanted.¡± Aurus was surprised for a bit, but knew that he would be able to obtain that skill as well, and other skills on top of that.

    Since Herellia had the healing skill, Aurus could not help but let out a sigh of relief as the screen in front of his field of vision disappeared.

    ¡°I think I still have some time before Herellia finishes, I should check the skill vault and grab the healing skill.¡± Aurus then turned his body to face a specific wall of the green jade hall he was in and inwardlymanded, ¡°Open the pathway to the skill vault.¡±

    Grrrrr¡­

    Not long after giving thismand, the green jade hall slightly rumbled as a passage formed on the wall Aurus was facing, leading to a long corridor that would possibly lead to the inheritance¡¯s skill vault.

    ¡°Let¡¯s not dy this any further then.¡±

    With the simple activation of the [Gale Hover] spell, Aurus entered the pathway to the skill vault, wondering what skills he could learn at the end of the corridor.

 Chapter 66: Unchangeable Fate

    Chapter 66: Unchangeable Fate

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    As he entered the corridor that led to the skill vault, Aurus instantly noticed that something was off. He looked around his surroundings and felt that nothing was peculiar about it since it was just green jade. Hence, he looked at himself for a bit.

    Whoosh!

    Unbeknownst to him, he, who had a speed of 525 meters per hour thanks to Fenrir¡¯s ally skill that was boosted by the [Gale Hover] spell, was actually moving even faster than that. It took a while for him to notice that fact since the walls around were green jade. It was only when he looked forward did he notice that the entrance to the skill vault grewrger at quite a fast pace.

    In the end, Aurus decided to check the skill details of [Tempestuous Spiritas Glide], his movement skill.

    ¡°Enable the option of me seeing the buffs that are applied to every skill or stat I have.¡± Before that though, Aurusmanded the system to enable the option just in case his hunch was right.

    Ding!

    ¡®The option ¡®Buff information¡¯ has been enabled.¡¯

    Continuing to traverse the long corridor as he nodded inwardly, Aurus thenmanded the system to open up information regarding his movement skill.

    Ding!

    ________

    [Tempestuous Spiritas Glide (Special)] (Level 11/20)

    Grade: S (Mortal)

    As a Spiritas that has a different structurepared to branches and saplings, any normal movement skill will not be effective, thus creating a new movement skill that allows you to be one with the wind and move at incredibly fast speeds.

    Movement speed: 350 meters per hour (+110%)

    Note: the skill [Tempest Burst Lv. 11] has been generated.

    ________

    ¡°Eh? 110% boost to movement speed?¡± At that moment, Aurus felt that something was fishy. As far as he knew, his movement speed was boosted by 50% due to Fenrir¡¯s ally skill. The problem is¡­where did the other 60%e from?

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡± Unknowingly, while Aurus was lost in his thoughts, he had already arrived at the skill vault, filled to the brim with skills that were only waiting for Aurus to choose from.

    Once he arrived in front of the skill vault, he did not stop thinking about the reason behind his enhanced movement speed as skills could wait. He hovered above the ce where the corridor and the skill vault ended and met up.

    It took him the time for [Gale Hover] to wear off to have an inkling of an idea as to where it came from.

    ¡°Identify [Blessing of the Tempest].¡± This was the first idea that came to Aurus¡¯ mind after a few minutes of thinking. Of course, he knew that this passive skill would boost his movement speed, but not to such a great extent.

    Ding!

    ________

    [Blessing of the Tempest] (Level 1/3)

    Experience: 7.5/10

    Grade: C (Mortal¡ªSpecial)

    As a child of the wind, you have been blessed by the winds that are quick and agile, while being destructive at the same time. Its name is Tempest.

    > Movement speed +10%

    ________

    ¡°As expected, [Blessing of the Tempest] does not boost my movement speed that much, only by 10%.¡± Aurus still could not understand where the remaining 50% came from though. He then tried to recall the things he had obtained from the inheritance after evolving Fenrir.

    ¡°I obtained [Blessing of the Tempest] and ownership of the inherita¡ª¡± And that¡¯s where it struck him.

    As far as he knew, buildings would only boost the yer¡¯s stats, at times, special stats as well but that was all. Now that his ownership over the [Tempest Cliff Inheritance] might be the reason for his increased movement speed, would it actually be the reason?¡±

    ¡°You know what? What happens, happens,¡± Aurus decided to just get it over with. ¡°Identify [Tempest Cliff Inheritance].¡±

    Ding!

    Without skipping a heartbeat, the system opened up a screen in front of Aurus regarding the information about the Tempest Cliff Inheritance. He skimmed over the information and could not help but say, ¡°I was right.¡±

    Ding!

    ________

    [Tempest Cliff Inheritance]

    An inheritance made for Inanimates of the Wind element by the Great Sage Kevin. Within lies multiple halls that facilitate trials and ces that over a boost in strength for Inanimates. It is covered by a strong aura of the Wind, making it not feel out of ce within the Tempest Cliff.

    > All stats +50%

    > Movement speed +50%

    ________

    ¡­

    Within the continent where the Seraph Kingdom is located, lies a small mansion where a great being of the kingdom lives.

    This person is renowned for his divinations and extremelyrge collection of knowledge on multiple topics of interest. May it be the sses from Rank 1 to Rank 10, the ces that help Animates grow stronger ording to their sses, tactics, arts, literature, he is well versed in all of it.

    What was his name?

    The person who wielded this much power told others to call him the Great Sage Evinkell, although his real name is Kevin.

    As for his ce, it was called the Sage¡¯s Manor by all of the people within the Seraph Kingdom.

    Currently, Evinkell sat on arge chair within the confines of his manor¡¯s living room, looking out of therge bay window in front of him as he sipped on his piping hot tea from time to time.

    ¡°To think that the Inanimates can actually be intelligent at their level.¡± Evinkell could not help chuckle at this thought. Most of the sentient Inanimates he discovered all had basic intelligence and at most, a small vocabry of the Animatenguage.

    If he knew that the Inanimates were actually hiding their true level of sentience from him and only found it out through his inheritance, he would definitely be startled at how far the Inanimates have hidden themselves.

    Taking a sip of tea, he started to mutter once more. ¡°Even though I predicted that Aurus¡¯ fate, I still can¡¯t help but shake off the feeling that it might change the world of Erudinia as we know it.¡±

    ¡°Is it because of its Perfect System?¡± As someone who has lived a very long life thanks to his ss of Rank 7 Erudite Sage, he has witnessed multiple cases of beings throughout his life, either Inanimate or Animate, being born with a system that allowed them to grow in power in a stable manner without the needed for experimentation. They also did not suffer from bacsh in terms of failure of ranking up in ss or evolving, because they can¡¯t fail at all. Evinkell decided to call this type of power progression tool, the Perfect System. He decided to call it this because there was no fault at all for someone who has this.

    Nheless, not all beings were lucky in obtaining a Perfect System, having a lesser version but moremon version of it, which Evinkell called the System Fragment. Although it also allowed these beings to grow in power just like those who had Perfect Systems, there was a great need for experimentation and there were cases of bacsh when beings failed to evolve or rank up to a higher ss.

    In the end, he decided to not think of Aurus¡¯ matter any further as he sipped on his tea once more before sighing. ¡°If that Aurus create a Spirit Clone version of itself as a human before its imminent doom, it would be great.¡±

    ¡°Its fate to be a material for a weapon has already been destined.¡±

    ¡­

    Within one of the green jade halls inside the Tempest Cliff Inheritance.

    Whoosh!

    At an unknown point in time, arge branch with red engravings covering almost every nook and cranny of its body, appeared on the center of this green jade hall. It rotated its body for a bit before letting out a sigh of relief and exuding a cheery aura around itself.

    Thisrge branch was none other than Herellia who had finally passed the seventh and final trial she had to face, the Stealth trial.

    She had to cross a lot of hardships in order to kill the enemy that was basically at the Animate level. If not for the healing skill she recived earlier, she might not have been sessful inpleting the trial.

    She could not help but let out an unbridledughter after seeing that she was truly out of that hell.

    ¡°I¡¯m finally done!¡±

 Chapter 67: Heading Out

    Chapter 67: Heading Out

    ________

    [Tempest Cliff Inheritance]

    An inheritance made for Inanimates of the Wind element by the Great Sage Kevin. Within lies multiple halls that facilitate trials and ces that over a boost in strength for Inanimates. It is covered by a strong aura of the Wind, making it not feel out of ce within the Tempest Cliff.

    > All stats +50%

    > Movement speed +50%

    ________

    ¡°I was right,¡± Aurus could not help but say as he sucked in a breath of cold air¡­figuratively. ¡°Not only does it boost my movement speed by an additional 50%, it also boosts my stats as well by 50 percent. If I add that to the boost that Fenrir¡¯s ally skill gives to my Attack and Vitality stat, how much HP do I have right now? And how much attack do I have?¡±

    Since he now found the culprit of his increased movement speed, Aurus was now at ease as he now wondered how stronger he has gotten after obtaining Fenrir and the ownership to the Tempest Cliff Inheritance.

    ¡°Disable the option ¡®Buff Information¡¯,¡± Aurusmanded without hesitation as he knew that he would face a ton of calctions if he continued to have this option enabled. Not only that, he also wanted to see big numbers on his status screen rather than multiple percentages. He knew that the system had the capabilities to calcte all of that.

    He took a short nce at the shelves upon shelves of skill books in front of him, keeping in mind where the [Stick Regeneration] skill was beforemanding, ¡°Open status screen.¡±

    Ding!

    Without skipping a heartbeat if Aurus had one, the system followed Aurus¡¯ order and opened a holographic screen in front of his field of vision that was filled to the brim regarding his information.

    Aurus looked at his status screen for a bit before bing dumbfounded at the improvement. He asked himself, ¡°Is this a dream?¡±

    Aurus rolled around for a bit and felt the cold sensation of the ground. He wasn¡¯t dreaming at all. After confirming that, his emotions took a 180 degree turn as he was incredibly happy for his improvement. Although it was not at the level of stats an S-grade from an alliance would have, it would still allow him to contend with normal S-grade Inanimates!

    ________

    [Aurus] (Level 10/10)

    Experience: MAX

    Species: Wind Walnut Spiritas (Rare)

    Existence Level: Inanimate

    Grade: A

    [HP]: 374/374

    [SP]: 774/774

    [Life]: 37/110

    [Will]: 39/110

    Stats:

    [Tenacity]: 38

    [Vitality]: 68

    [Spirit]: 77

    Synchronization Rate: 40%

    Unused Experience Points: 14705

    Unused Genesis Points: 23

    ________

    ¡°I used to have around 150 HP and 300 or so SP but¡­¡± Aurus could not help but get emotional after seeing that his HP and SP has been increased by over twofold after entering the inheritance. ¡°Not only that, I have enough unused experience points to level me up to the max once I evolve to S-grade!¡±

    He did not want to waste his unused experience points on Fenrir at the moment as he wanted to grow as fast as possible, not wanting to gamble his life to fight others if he didn¡¯t need to. Although he could do so, if he could avoid it, then why fight?

    ¡°Hmm¡­23 Genesis Points, I think that¡¯s enough to let me pass through the 5thyer of the Genesis Tree,¡± Aurus said to himself after taking into consideration how much points were needed to pass through eachyer. Although he did estimate back then that he could pass through the 30thyer with this much points, it was a hasty guess while having only a faint recollection of the points to pass through theyers.

    After that, he activated [Gale Hover] once more as he came closer and closer to the other skill he wanted to pick, which was [Stick Regeneration].

    ¡°Where could you be?¡±

    ¡­

    Within another green jade hall inside the Tempest Cliff Inheritance.

    Since Herellia has finished the seventh and final trial of the inheritance, she was only waiting for the rewards she would get and she would leave this inheritance in an instant. Of course, she did not forget that she would have to apologize to Aurus due to the fact that she did not believe his words. As a leader of an alliance, it was truly a shame to not believe on one¡¯s members.

    It did not take a long while for Herellia to receive her reward as the disembodied voice that resounded throughout the hall said, ¡°The seventh and final trial, Stealth has beenpleted.¡±

    ¡°Time needed to clear trial: 36 minutes and 22 seconds. Score grade: S.¡±

    ¡°As the inheritor has finished the final trial with a score grade of S, the inheritor shall receive the skill [Unyielding Spirit] as a reward.¡±

    Ding!

    Not long after that, Herellia¡¯s system opened up a screen in front of her field of vision as she scanned through the details of the skill.

    ¡°What the¡­an invincibility skill?¡± Herellia could not believe it. Not only did she get a healing skill from the inheritance, but an invincibility skill as well? She looked through the contents of the skill once more.

    ________

    [Unyielding Spirit] (Lv. 1/1)

    Grade: X (Mortal)

    You do not bend under another being¡¯s pressure. You want to strive to be the strongest. Your spirit has been strengthened to the point that it does not sway nor have second thoughts in something, allowing you to do the impossible.

    This skill allows you to reduce the damage you take to only 1 point of damage. This skillsts for 5 seconds.

    SP Cost: 1500 SP

    Cooldown: 12 hours

    ________

    Although it would use up around 1/3 of her SP, she did not mind as having the ability to at least damage the Animate for 5 seconds is already more than enough.

    Indeed, she was this surprised about the invincibility skill as she still did not give up on killing the Animate that ruled over the Tempest Cliff.

    Closing the screen in front of her not long after, the disembodied voice once talked again as it announced to Herellia that the trial was over and she could now leave the inheritance at any time.

    Of course, Herellia did not hesitate to leave at the instant the disembodied voice told her to as she still felt guilty.

    Whoosh!

    And like that, she was now gone from the inheritance, appearing at the center of the faded magic circle they entered a few secondster.

    ¡­

    Within the skill vault.

    ¡°Aha! Found it,¡± Aurus could not help but exim as he scanned through the skill books on the bookshelves with the help of his system. If he did not have the system as his assistant, it would definitely take him far longer to search for the [Stick Regeneration] skill.

    As he grabbed the skill book that had the words [Stick Regeneration] written on its cover, a voice resounded through his mind.

    ¡°Master, what¡¯s that?¡± Fenrir asked in Aurus¡¯ mind. Although Fenrir¡¯s intelligence was still far off from an A-grade Inanimate, it was still able to hold basicmunication with Aurus.

    ¡°It¡¯s a skill book,¡± Aurus replied inwardly as hemanded the system to learn the skill from the skill book. A sh of light covered Aurus¡¯ body not long after before prompting him to put the skill book in its rightful bookshelf. ¡°It allows you to grow stronger since you would have more skills in your arsenal.¡±

    ¡°Skill¡­book¡­¡± Fenrir thought Aurus¡¯ words for a long time as after that, it went silent, as if it wasn¡¯t inside Aurus¡¯ mind at all. Of course, Aurus did not mind that and continued to look through the bookshelves. ¡°I should try and grab a defensive skill since I severelyck those.¡±

    Although he had an invincibility skill that could be considered as a life-saving defensive skill, it still had a long cooldown, hence Aurus would not be able to use it often. He needed a defensive skill that he could use whenever and wherever he wanted.

    Just as he was about to look through another bookshelf, the disembodied voice resounded throughout the skill vault, slightly startling Aurus. ¡°The inheritor named Herellia has finished the trials and has left the inheritance.¡±

    ¡°Oh? She¡¯s done already?¡± Aurus felt that his time inside the skill vault was short. If it wasn¡¯t for him taking his sweet time to think where the increased movement speed came from, then he might have learned more skills. But s, there was no way to turn back time¡­or even if there was, it would be a long way before Aurus could do so.

    Letting out a sigh inwardly, Aurus then shouted, ¡°I want to leave the inheritance.¡±

    Whoosh!

    A gust of wind blew throughout the skill vault as a hazy green glow covered Aurus¡¯ body. A few secondster, the hazy green glow dissipated as any traces of Aurus being in the skill vault was gone just like that.

 Chapter 68: Tempest Branch Alliance

    Chapter 68: Tempest Branch Alliance

    Whoosh!

    A few secondster, Aurus appeared on the center of the faded magic circle that both him and Herellia used to enter the inheritance a while ago. He took in a deep breath of air through his body and let out a sigh. ¡°It¡¯s good to be back outside.¡±

    Although he was now the owner of the inheritance and had tons of skills he could learn, he would still need to umte experience in the world of Erudinia or else he might be rusty. He used his [Spirit Detection] skill to detect any sign of Herellia as she was the first one to get out of the inheritance. It only took him a few repeats of the spell to find where Herellia was, about twenty meters or so away from the magic circle. Aurus decided to use [Tempest Burst] this time since using [Gale Hover] would be a waste if taking the distance between them into consideration. Not only that, he checked the details of [Tempest Burst] and noticed that the duration was boosted by another 10 seconds while the cooldown was reduced by another hour.

    Whoosh!

    Within a few minutes or so, Aurus was able to see a glimpse of Herellia¡¯s body that exuded an aura far more tyrannical and suffocating whenpared to before. Noticing that Herellia was in some sort of meditative state, Aurus decided to not disturb her as he knew that any woman would get angry when disturbed.

    But contrary to what he expected, Herellia actually noticed Aurus and hovered towards him as she let out a cheery aura. ¡°Aurus! What took you so long?¡±

    Startled by the fact that Herellia was in front of him, Aurus could not help but let out a stifled chuckle. ¡°The trial I went through was a bit harder than yours, hence the dy.¡±

    Of course, the secret about him being ownership of the inheritance should never be divulged to Herellia or any other being for this matter, as this would allow Aurus to grow stronger at a fast pace, considering the amount of skills within that vault.

    Although Herellia¡¯s intelligence was near an Animate¡¯s, she still did not perceive the secretive aura around Aurus, letting out an affirmative aura before turning into an aura filled with guilt all of a sudden. ¡°I¡­have to tell you something Aurus.¡±

    ¡®Eh?¡¯ Aurus could not help but overthink what Herellia was going to say. ¡®Is she going to tell me about her system?¡¯ This was the first thing that came to mind after sensing Herellia¡¯s aura. He thought she felt guilty that she did not tell him about her system. Sadly, that was not the reason.

    ¡°Aurus, I¡¯m sorry for not believing you. The entrance to the inheritance actually worked and I¡­¡± Aurus could sense a mncholic aura circling around Herellia as she said that. Of course, as a man, he should be there tofort her. Without dy, he replied, ¡°It¡¯s fine. I did not even have enough evidence to make you believe me anyway. Let bygones be bygones.¡±

    After hearing Aurus¡¯ reply, the mncholic aura around Herellia gradually dissipated, being reced with a slightly cheerful aura. ¡°A-are you serious? You¡¯re not mad at me, the leader of the Tempest Branch Alliance?¡±

    ¡°Why would I be?¡± This time, Aurus chuckled in order to cheer Herellia up. ¡°You¡¯re the leader of the alliance I¡¯m joining. It¡¯s okay to have doubts at times towards your alliance members.¡±

    After that, Herellia¡¯s aura turned extremely cheerful as Aurus could feel that Herellia was sincerely smiling inside. ¡°Alright then, let bygones be bygones just as you said. In exchange, I won¡¯t let anyone mistreat you when you enter the alliance!¡±

    ¡°Haha, sure. Let¡¯s go with that.¡± Aurus did not dare to drag this conversation any further as the two of them decided to head towards the Tempest Branch Alliance¡¯s base of operations, under the directions of Herellia of course.

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    Unlike before they entered the inheritance, Herellia would have to slow her speed down in order for Aurus to catch up. At this moment though, even when she sped up or slowed down, it did not deter Aurus from following behind at all¡­except for when his [Gale Hover] spell expired.

    ¡°What kind of things did you get from the inheritance, Aurus?¡± Herellia did not hesitate to ask as he was going to join her alliance.

    Of course, Aurus would not reveal all of his gains to Herellia, maintaining a low profile. ¡°I got the two skills I wanted. You?¡±

    ¡°Hehe!¡± Herellia could not help butugh after remembering the rewards she reaped. ¡°Not only did I get a few skills and [Stick Regeneration] from the inheritance, I also got an invincibility skill as well!¡±

    Hearing that Herellia obtained an invincibility skill from the inheritance made Aurus widen his nonexistent eyes in surprise, but concealed it easily due to the fact that he had no eyes whatsoever. Neither of them had eyes.

    As they continued to traverse the Tempest Ruin and get out of it, all of a sudden, Fenrir, who was silent all this time, started to speak ¡°Where are we, Master?¡±

    ¡°The outside world,¡± Aurus replied inwardly to Fenrir¡¯s question. He knew that if he revealed Fenrir to Herellia, he would definitely shock Herellia to the core.

    ¡°Outside? Is it¡­big?¡± Fenrir thought about Aurus¡¯ words for a bit and asked a question. Aurus could not help but inwardlyugh and reply, ¡°Yes, it¡¯s big. It will also help you grow stronger.¡±

    ¡°Grow strong¡­yes! Fenrir will grow strong!¡± Hearing that it could grow stronger in the world of Erudinia, happiness could be felt throughout Aurus¡¯ mind.

    Aurus could feel the enthusiasm that Fenrir radiated throughout his mind andughed as he said to himself, ¡°I should grow stronger as well!¡±

    ¡­

    It took Aurus and Herellia about a day or so to reach the ce where the Tempest Branch Alliance¡¯s base of operations was located. To be honest, it was already incredibly fast for the two of them to reach it at a day, thanks to Aurus not dragging Herellia down.

    ¡°Here we are, the alliance¡¯s base of operations.¡± Herellia looked at the sight in front of the two of them and could not help but feel homesick, as if she left the ce for a few months or so.

    As for Aurus, he looked around his surroundings for a while and decided to ask Herellia. ¡°Uh¡­where is the alliance¡¯s base of operations?¡±

    Herellia awkwardly chuckled as he used SP to form a blood tendril as it pointed towards a certain direction. ¡°Right there.¡±

    ¡°Hm?¡± Aurus looked at the direction where the blood tendril was pointing. ¡°The only thing that looks oddly unique is that big hole in front of us.¡±

    At the current moment, Aurus and Herellia were currently hovering above the edge of a small cliff, looking down at the ins that had small hills and mountains sparsely scattered all over.

    In the end, Herellia decided to steel her courage and said, ¡°That big hole is our base of operations.¡± Herellia and Aurus were referring to the big hole that was formed naturally at the base of a small hill. Its entrance was around 10 meters in height and around 8 meters in width, allowing branches and saplings of all shapes and sizes to easily fit inside.

    Aurus could not help but let out a sigh as he said, ¡°As expected. It¡¯s a good ce as a base of operations, it won¡¯t arouse any suspicion from other beings at the very least.¡±

    ¡°Okay, let¡¯s go inside then.¡± Aurus did not hesitate to move towards the big hole, leaving Herellia at a dumbfounded state for a few seconds before waking up from her stupor.

    ¡°Eh? Ah!¡± Herellia only realized Aurus was gone after Aurus was already halfway to the big hole, forcing Herellia to use her movement skill to the limit. ¡°Wait for me!¡±

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    And so, with the two branches¡­well onerge branch and one weird branch heading towards the Tempest Branch Alliance¡¯s base of operations, a change was bound to happen sooner orter throughout all of the Tempest Cliff¡¯s Inanimate poption.

 Chapter 69: The New Executive

    Chapter 69: The New Executive

    A few minutester, Herellia and Aurusnded in front of the entryway to the Tempest Branch Alliance¡¯s base of operations. The two nced at the entrance for a bit before rolling inside, since the entrance was not really unique in any way other than the fact that it could blend in with the nature.

    Rustle¡­rustle¡­

    A soft breeze could be heard as Aurus and Herellia slowly rolled¡­well hovered towards the inside of the alliance¡¯s base of operations.

    ¡°Wow¡­¡± Looking at the base of operations of the alliance that he was going to join, Aurus could not help but exim this word. He eximed not out of awe, but of shock.

    What was seen in front of him was an extremely barren space that spanned around 20 to 30 meters in diameter. Nheless, the shape of the hall was extremely neat, looking like it was man-made. This was the only thing that stood out from Aurus¡¯ vision, other than that, nothing else.

    ¡°Is this really your base of operations?¡± Aurus could not help but ask as he looked at Herellia, who was releasing an aura that made it feel like this sight was normal.

    ¡°Hm?¡± Herellia let out a cheery aura as he replied. ¡°Yes, this is our base of operations, but this is only the ce where all the members gather. You haven¡¯t seen everything yet.¡±

    ¡°Horell!¡± Ignoring the shock exuded by Aurus¡¯ aura, Herellia shouted out as her voice resounded through the hall.

    Whoosh!

    Not long after, a silhouette manifested from thin air as it appeared a few decimeters away from where Herellia and Aurus stood.

    ¡°Hehe!¡± The silhouetteughed as it gradually became more and more corporeal in front of the two¡¯s vision. Not long after, the silhouette became fully corporeal as it said, ¡°Well if it isn¡¯t leader and Aurus! Nice to meet you again!¡±

    Aurus could not help but look with shock at the silhouette in front of him. Although he was familiar with the silhouette¡¯s abilities as it casted an extremely strong barrier around him as he fought against Loran, and the fact that it was the first X-grade Inanimate he scanned, it would be hard for him to forget.

    ¡°Horell!¡± Aurus felt like kneeling down in front of Horell as he was basically the upgraded version of him in terms of magic. Nheless, he could not kneel down as he had no legs, instead he exuded an aura of reverence as he looked at him.

    ¡°It seems both of you have reaped something good from the Tempest Ruin.¡± Horell nced at the two of them and could not help but feel that the aura they exuded was stronger than before.

    From Horell¡¯s perspective, Herellia was exuding an aura of an extremelyrge de that was concealed behind a sheath, filling the air with the sensation of a serial killer near him. As for Aurus, he could feel a tornadoing from Aurus, which was definitely surprising for an A-grade to exude.

    ¡°Horell, I¡¯ll tell you the gains of our travelter,¡± Herellia went closer to Horell and said. ¡°Also, I¡¯m sorry that I¡¯m troubling you to do this, but could you call all of the members that are outside and tell them that they shoulde back to the base as fast as possible?¡±

    Horell could not help but chuckle as he received Herellia¡¯s orders. ¡°Not a problem at all. Are you finally going to let Aurus join the alliance?¡±

    As a response, Herellia exuded a cheery aura as she said to Aurus, ¡°Follow me.¡±

    All this time, Aurus stayed silent as he listened to the conversation between the two. Even at the moment Herellia called her to follow him, he just followed silently. He did not know why he had to stay silent, but he felt like he just had to.

    ¡­

    ¡°Wow¡­¡± As Aurus followed Herellia through a long corridor that connected to the big hall he saw before, Aurus could not help but exim in admiration at the sight he was seeing. It was a far cry from the hall he saw earlier.

    In front of him was basically a small ecosystem, just like the ce within the Tempest Cliff Inheritance where the jade statue of Evinkell¡­er, Kevin stood. The ce he was currently looking at spanned around 100 meters in diameter, with fiverge buildings being ced in a pentagon formation throughout the ce.

    ¡°Come and follow me to the alliance lobby,¡± Herellia said after seeing that Aurus was done admiring the sight. Aurus exuded an affirmative aura and followed her with the [Gale Hover] spell activated, reducing the amount of time they had to use to head to the alliance lobby.

    Around ten or so minutester, Herellia and Aurus arrived in front of a building that looked like it was made from two stone blocks stacked on top of each other, with the stone block on top slightly smaller than the one below. In a sense, it looked like an extremely crude pagoda.

    ¡°We¡¯re here, the alliance lobby,¡± Herellia could not help but say before looking at Aurus and noticing that he was silent all this time. ¡°Why are you silent?¡±

    ¡°Well¡­¡± Since he was asked, Aurus had no choice but to speak. ¡°I don¡¯t really know why I didn¡¯t say anything throughout all of this. I guess it¡¯s respect?¡±

    ¡°Respect huh?¡± Herellia let out a chuckle before saying, ¡°To be honest, I respect you more since you brought me to a ce that allowed me to grow stronger.¡±

    ¡°Rx Aurus, this alliance isn¡¯t strict at all, think of it as one big family,¡± Herellia added.

    Afterwards, Herellia started to roll inside the alliance lobby, leaving Aurus alone.

    ¡°A family huh¡­¡± Now that he thought about, Aurus did not know what having a family felt like. In his previous life, his parents died early, while the rtives that took care of him only sent him items and money once he grew old enough to live alone.

    Letting out a sigh as he ced the thought at the back of his mind, Aurus rolled to where Herellia was.

    ¡­

    A few minutester, Aurus was greeted by the sight of Herellia standing beside what seemed to be a magic circle formed by nature as arge crystal in the shape of pyramid hung from the ceiling directly above the circle.

    Aurus thought about the cement of the crystal and the magic circle for a bit and asked Herellia not long after, ¡°I have to stand here to be admitted into the alliance?¡±

    ¡°Mhm,¡± Herellia let out a cheery aura as she replied. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, this won¡¯t hurt you at all, since we don¡¯t have any sense of pain anyway.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s true,¡± Aurus could not help but think that Herellia broke some sort of wall as she said that. Nheless, Aurus rolled towards the center of the magic circle and let Herellia do her thing.

    ¡°Hey Aurus?¡± Unexpectedly, Herellia asked Aurus while he was waiting for her to do her thing.

    ¡°Yeah?¡± Aurus replied.

    ¡°Do you still remember the hierarchy of members in our alliance?¡± Herellia asked.

    Aurus went silent for a bit before replying with an affirmative aura. ¡°I do, the hierarchy from lowest to highest are normal members, Executives, Pirs, and you right?¡±

    ¡°Yeah,¡± Herellia let out a cheerful aura as she heard Aurus¡¯ answer. ¡°I¡¯ll be giving you the position of Executiveter, I¡¯ll tell you why after I introduce you to the other members.¡±

    ¡®Alright then.¡± Aurus had no qualms with what Herellia said, letting her take the lead.

    ¡°Hooh¡­haah¡­¡± After saying what she had to say, Herellia started to breath through her body as her SP radiated outwards, gradually forming a connection with the crystal above the magic circle.

    Click.

    Not long after, a click sound could be heard as the aura around Herellia intensified by a hundred times. She then looked towards the magic circle where Aurus was standing on and then chanted a few sentences.

    ¡°As the leader of the Tempest Branch Alliance, I beseech the gods to heed my call.¡±

    ¡°With the power vested in me by the Deity Crystal, I shall now announce that the being standing on the Magic Circle of Judgement shall be an Executive of the Tempest Branch Alliance, wielding a power iparable to before.¡±

    ¡°Ariansus Holos Branchii, Exvetibus Grandei!¡±

    Whoosh!

    As Herellia was finished chanting, the crystal above the magic circle started to glow faintly. The glow became more and more intense as time passed before shooting out a beam of light towards Aurus¡¯ body.

    As for Aurus, he did not feel any pain at all. Instead, his vision was filled with extremely white light. This situationsted for a few seconds before his vision turned back to normal. A few secondster, a notification sound resounded through his mind as a screen appeared in front of his field of vision.

    Ding!

    ¡®Congrattions Aurus for joining the [Tempest Branch Alliance]!¡¯

    ¡®The passive skill [Power of the Alliance Lv.5 (Executive A-grade Variant)] has been obtained.¡¯

    ¡®The active skill [Alliance Call] has been obtained.¡¯

    ¡®The active skill [Judgement] has been obtained.¡¯

    ¡®Power wielded by Aurus in the alliance: Executive level.¡¯

 Chapter 70: Newfound Powers

    Chapter 70: Newfound Powers

    Whoosh!

    In an instant, the aura that Aurus normally exuded intensified by two times thanks to him being epted into the alliance. Even Aurus could feel the changes in his power as he looked around his surroundings.

    ¡°This is too surreal¡­¡± Aurus felt like he destroy a mountain with one Spirit Spear, but he knew that he did not have that capability since that would only be possible in the Animate level ording to his memories. ¡°Herellia, is this norma¡ª¡±

    As he was about to ask Herellia about this feeling of ultimate power, Aurus saw something that made stop in his sentence midway.

    ¡®Herellia [Alliance Leader]?¡¯ This was the thing Aurus saw, specifically it was hovering above Herellia¡¯s body. After seeing that, he closed and opened his sense of vision a few times, and the text was still above her body.

    He then decided to look over his body and noticed that the same text was hovering him, albeit changed to suit him.

    ¡®Aurus [Executive]¡¯

    ¡°Hm?¡± Herellia could not help but hem as she heard Aurus¡¯ question that was cut off midway. Of course, she could not help but stare at Aurus because a holographic screen was levitating in front of his body.

    She tried to control her excitement of knowing that her intuition was true about Aurus, and decided to lightly cough as she noticed that Aurus was also out of it. ¡°Ehem. What were you about to ask me, Aurus?¡±

    ¡°Eh?¡± Hearing his name being called, Aurus snapped back to reality as he noticed that Herellia was looking at him. He took a few seconds to recall the question he had in mind and then asked, ¡°Is it normal for newly admitted members to feel a sense of overwhelming power?¡±

    ¡°Yes, yes it is,¡± Herellia replied with an affirmative aura. ¡°Do you have any more questions? If not, let¡¯s go back to the entrance since all of the alliance members have now gathered there ording to Horell.¡±

    ¡°Oh¡­ah¡­¡± Since Herellia told him that there were people¡­well sticks waiting for him, Aurus decided to ask the most obvious question after staring off into nothing. ¡°Why is your name hovering above your body?¡±

    ¡°Ah that.¡± Herellia could not help but stiffly chuckle. ¡°This is so we can differentiate enemies from alliance members. Once you enter the hall, you¡¯ll see a ton of this so I advise you to disable that in your mind.¡±

    Aurus let out an affirmative aura after that and willed his mind to remove the fact that a line of text was hovering over their bodies. After doing so, he looked at Herellia and noticed that the text hovering over her body was gone now. ¡°Okay, I¡¯m done, let¡¯s go back.¡±

    Herellia let out an affirmative aura after that and turned around to hover out of the alliance lobby, heading back to therge hall of the alliance base. As for Aurus, he activated [Gale Hover] before following Herellia from behind.

    ¡­

    As they were travelling back to the hall, Herellia could not scream inwardly from excitement. ¡®What the heck! He actually has a system!¡¯

    Ever since the Goddess of Kinship blessed her, she was bestowed with a system that allowed her to grow at an incredibly fast ratepared to her peers. After growing to X-grade and establishing an alliance, she then decided to experiment with her system. Topics like the system being able to be seen by others and such were tackled by her, getting to a few fruitful conclusions.

    ¡®Since I can see his system, then that means¡­those who don¡¯t have the system cannot see the system I have or Aurus has,¡¯ Herellia said to herself inwardly. She looked back at Aurus and noticed that three holographic screens were hovering in front of Aurus¡¯ body, as if he was engrossed in the system.

    ¡®You know what? I¡¯ll tell him that I have a systemter,¡¯ Herellia said to herself before fully focusing on heading towards the hall.

    What she did not know was that¡­Aurus already knew she had a system thanks to the inheritance.

    ¡­

    ¡°I received two active skills and a passive skill from joining alliance,¡± Aurus murmured to himself. He tried to check his notification log and find out what the names of the skills he received were.

    ¡°Identify [Alliance Call],¡± Aurusmanded inwardly to the system.

    Ding!

    Not long after, the systempleted Aurus¡¯ order.

    ________

    [Alliance Call]

    Calls for alliance members that are within a 1 kilometer radius of the user.

    Cooldown: 24 hours

    SP Cost: 100 SP

    ________

    ¡°Hmm¡­I don¡¯t know where this will be useful.¡± Aurus tried to think up of situations where he could possibly use it, but got nowhere since no situation popped up at all.

    ¡°What about the other active skill?¡± Aurus continued to talk to himself. ¡°Identify [Judgement].¡±

    Ding!

    ________

    [Judgement]

    In an alliance, there is no shortage of those who have malicious thoughts. This skill allows you to kick members of the Member level or less from the alliance, and suppress those of the Executive level or higher, allowing you to possibly incapacitate them.

    Cooldown: 30 minutes

    SP Cost: 100 SP

    ________

    ¡°Now this¡­this I can see a use for.¡± Aurus¡¯ eyes gleamed after reading the details of the skill. Since he was a level higher than the normal members, he could kick those who desire to take his ce or have any lingering thoughts to overthrow the alliance.

    ¡°And now¡­onto the passive skill.¡± Aurus saved this skillst since the name was already overbearing. Before he did look at the details of the skill, he looked at the path in front of them and noticed that there were still a few more minutes he had to introduce himself. Of course, he did not waste his time,manding, ¡°Identify [Power of the Alliance].¡±

    Ding!

    Without skipping a nonexistent heartbeat, the system opened a screen up in front of Aurus¡¯ field of vision. He skimmed through the whole screen, only to gasp inwardly in shock.

    ________

    [Power of the Alliance (Executive A-grade Variant)] (Level 5)

    The will of the alliance flows within you and bes one with your body and soul, allowing you to wield iparable power that would surpass those who have not joined alliances.

    > All stats +100%

    (Note: The stat boost can grow further depending on your species grade and level of authority within the alliance.)

    ________

    ¡°Thi-this¡­¡± Aurus was at a loss for words after reading this. He already had Fenrir who boosted his attack and vitality by 20 percent, and the ownership of the inheritance he cleared boosted all of his stats by 50 percent. If he looked at his current status screen, how high would his stats be?

    ¡°Open status screen!¡± Seeing that there was still a couple of minutes, Aurus decided to hastily look at his stats, which were definitely higher than before.

    Ding!

    ________

    [Aurus] (Level 10/10)

    Experience: MAX

    Species: Wind Walnut Spiritas (Rare)

    Existence Level: Inanimate

    Grade: A

    [HP]:596/596

    [SP]: 774/774

    [Life]: 37/110

    [Will]: 39/110

    Stats:

    [Tenacity]: 63

    [Vitality]: 108

    [Spirit]: 122

    Synchronization Rate: 40%

    Unused Experience Points: 14705

    Unused Genesis Points: 23

    ________

    ¡°Over 100 attack points¡­¡± Aurus could imagine the damage he could deal with 100 attack points. If he had over 100 attack points when he fought against Loran, then Loran would be killed in one shot!

    His HP was also outstanding, being the half the amount of a normal S-grade¡¯s HP! If he fought against a normal A-grade, armed with his healing skill, he could definitely just stand there and always have his HP filled to the brim!

    At the moment Aurus closed his status screen, Herellia and Aurus were now out of the long corridor and were greeted with the hall they entered from. The difference was that, the hall was filled to the brim with branches and saplings of various shapes and sizes that exuded an aura that wouldn¡¯t lose out to Aurus.

    Before the two came into the hall, the hall was filled with the mor and chatter as to why they were being called. After sensing Herellia¡¯s aura and a new member¡¯s aura, all of them understood the reason why they were called and turned silent.

    Letting out a light cough as she hovered, Herellia started to speak. ¡°Today, we are all gathered here to greet a new executive of the Tempest Branch Alliance.¡±

    She then extended a blood tendril to point towards Aurus who was beside her. ¡°Although he might just be an A-grade at the moment, he can definitely kill off S-grades like cutting radishes! Not only that, he has also contributed to the alliance for he is the second member of our alliance who has a healing skill!¡±

    At first, when they heard that the new member beside Herellia was an A-grade, all of them could not help but gasp. Some of them even recognized the being beside Herellia and kept mum as they knew what Herellia said was the truth, being able to kill S-grades easily.

    But when they heard that the being beside them had a healing skill, that was when they lost it. A healing skill! How precious was that! Before Aurus¡¯ admittance to the alliance, there was only one member who could heal. But now that Aurus was a part of their alliance, they now had two healers.

    Of course, given the fact that they ignored the fact that the effect of healing only applies to Aurus himself.

    Noticing the auras that the members let out, Herellia let out a cheerful aura as she continued to shout, ¡°I introduce you to our newest member, the A-grade Spiritas, Aurus!¡±

 Chapter 71: Ill Use My Weakest Skill!

    Chapter 71: I¡¯ll Use My Weakest Skill!

    ck. ck. ck. ck.

    Since branches and saplings did not have hands to hold a round of apuse, they instead used other means of making sounds that were akin to an apuse, with some shouts here and there.

    Although there was some dissatisfaction from the alliance members due to the fact that a newly admitted A-grade Inanimate member was an Executive, they could still vividly remember the phrase that Herellia said to them as she announced Aurus¡¯ addition into their alliance.

    ¡®He has the capability to kill S-grades like cutting radishes.¡¯

    Of course, since Herellia saw that, that meant that Herellia had seen it firsthand. If the other alliance members did not believe in their alliance leader¡¯s words, would they truly be a part of the alliance?

    ¡°Hold on just a darn minute!¡±

    While the other alliance members ranging from normal members to Pir level members were apuding for Aurus, one member could not endure the feeling of envy he had and voiced hisints out.

    A few secondster, a stifling silence covered therge hall as most of the branches and saplings that were beside the branch that shouted out, moved out of the way. Herellia, who was able to see the branch that voiced theirints out, could not help but exude a serious aura as she said, ¡°What is it?¡±

    ¡°Aren¡¯t we an alliance made up of S-grade and X-grade Inanimates? Why did you allow an A-grade to join the alliance? And even give him an Executive level of authority?¡± From the branch¡¯s words, it seemed that he did not care about Herellia¡¯s authority anymore.

    Herellia took the time where the branch was talking to remember the branch¡¯s name, replying not long after, ¡°Now let me ask you, Connor. Do you have the authority to talk back to me like that?¡± The aura that radiated from her body intensified as it concentrated on the ce where Connor was.

    ¡°I-¡± Connor easily realized his slip of the tongue and hastily apologized. ¡°I-I apologize for not using the right honorifics, Alliance Leader. But¡­¡±

    With his SP, Connor formed an incorporeal hand that pointed towards Aurus¡¯ body as he said, ¡°He¡¯s an A-grade! He shouldn¡¯t be epted at all! Even though he could kill S-grades like cutting off radishes, he¡¯s still an A-grade nheless!¡±

    ¡°You¡­are you even¡ª¡± Just as Herellia was going to berate Connor for not giving her and Aurus face, Aurus decided to hover forward and say, ¡°Uh¡­Connor was it? Did I get your name right?¡±

    ¡°Hm?¡± Connor heard Aurus¡¯ voice and replied in an arrogant tone, ¡°Heh. That¡¯s right, you lowly A-grade. Good thing you got my name correct.¡±

    ¡®Man, that¡¯s some superiorityplex right there. Or is it some sort of kingplex?¡¯ Aurus could not help but mutter inwardly as he restrained his emotions, maintaining the same polite tone as he continued, ¡°From the words you¡¯re telling all of us, it seems that you want to kick me out of the alliance?¡±

    ¡°Why not?¡± Connor did not hide his intentions and agreed to Aurus¡¯ question. ¡°Ever since this alliance was founded, only S-grades and X-grades were allowed to join this alliance, those from A-grade and below being denied outright.¡±

    ¡°Have you heard of the saying ¡®Rules are dead while people are alive¡¯?¡± Aurus responded to Connor¡¯s statement with this.

    ¡°What do you mean by that?¡± Connor, being an S-grade who only knew how to get stronger, did not know what this meant.

    As for Aurus, he let out a cheerful aura as he replied, ¡°In other words, rules are meant to be broken.¡±

    ¡°Now let me tell you this.¡± In an instant, the aura that Aurus exuded changed from being cheerful to being overbearing, concentrating on Connor¡¯s body. ¡°Do you dare to fight against me? Aren¡¯t I a lowly A-grade? You want to prove to everyone that fact right?¡±

    Connor, who was being bombarded by the pressure of both Aurus and Herellia¡¯s aura, could not help but chuckle under the pressure as he replied, ¡°Of course I dare! You¡¯re just a lowly A-grade. I even bet that you wouldn¡¯t even deal any damage to me.¡±

    ¡°Well, we¡¯ll see,¡± Aurus said beforending on the ground, rolling slowly towards where Connor was.

    ¡°To everyone else, could you move out of the way?¡± Aurus asked to the others in a polite tone as he continued to roll towards Connor. Of course, since he had the authority of an Executive, most of the members went to the opposite sides of the hall, allowing the two to position themselves at the center.

    ¡°Aurus, do you really have to do this?¡± While positioning himself on the center of the hall, a voice resounded throughout Aurus¡¯ mind, which he easily figured out to be Herellia. He turned his sense of vision around and sent a strand of SP to Herellia, which he learned from Horell from their first meeting.

    ¡°I have to,¡± Aurus said without hesitation. ¡°He has malicious intentions, and I have a feeling that it¡¯s not limited to just me.¡±

    ¡°Aurus, did you know that before you were admitted into the alliance, this Connor was actually respectful?¡± Herellia could not help but say.

    Of course, Aurus was startled for a bit beforeposing his emotion, replying with, ¡°What happened before I joined does not matter. Also, can I kill him off if I need to?¡±

    Herellia thought about what Aurus said for a while before sighing as she replied, ¡°Go ahead.¡±

    ¡°Great,¡± Aurus replied back before looking back at Connor, who was exuding an extremely arrogant aura.

    As for Aurus, he decided to suppress his aura as he activated [Spirit Energy Ascension]. ¡°Since I¡¯m a lowly A-grade, it¡¯s fine for me to have a handicap right?¡±

    Connor, who noticed that a me was covering Aurus¡¯ body, got to the conclusion that this was Aurus¡¯ handicap. He thought that a simple me could not hurt him so he sniggered as he replied, ¡°Be my guest.¡±

    ¡°In exchange, I¡¯ll let you hit me first,¡± Aurus let out a cheerful aura as the me that covered his body intensified, before growing even further in size and intensity, as if a bottleneck was broken through.

    Hearing Aurus¡¯ words, Connor did not hesitate to say, ¡°If that¡¯s the case, then I shall ept.¡± A few secondster, a small splinter started to hover over Connor¡¯s body before being shot out towards where Aurus was.

    Ding!

    ¡®The exchange of SP into power has reached its limit, boosting the user¡¯s power by 300%¡¯

    After grinding all of his skills in the second trial of the Tempest Cliff Inheritance, his [Spirit Energy Ascension] skill reached its MAX level, boosting his stats by 150 percent. Not only that, the auxiliary skill brought by [Spirit Energy Ascension], which was [Spirit Ascension], was upgraded as well, doubling the stat boost for 2 minutes, allowing him to obtain a stat boost of 300 percent!

    As Aurus got the notification, the splinter shot out by Connor was still halfway in its trajectory. From this, Aurus realized that Connor was someone who did not care about movement speed that much.

    Although Aurus had ways to negate this splinter, Aurus just decided to use his invincibility skill in order to shock Connor.

    A few secondster, the splinter was almost close to Aurus¡¯ body, which made Aurus activate his invincibility skill [Unyielding Spiritas] inwardly.

    Whoosh!

    Since the silver me from the [Spirit Energy Ascension] skill covered Aurus¡¯ body, the fact that he activated his invincibility skill did not even register to the others.

    Bang!

    A loud explosion was heard after the splinter collided with Aurus¡¯ body, but Aurus stood there, as if nothing happened at all.

    Ding!

    ¡®You have received 1 HP damage.¡¯

    This was the notification Aurus got.

    Seeing that Aurus was unscathed, Connor could not help but curse out. ¡°What the heck?! That¡¯s impossible! Even S-grades would be seriously injured from that attack!¡±

    Sadly, he had to face off against Aurus who had an invincibility skill.

    ¡°Since you¡¯re done with your attack, it¡¯s time for me to attack!¡± Aurus ignored Connor¡¯s reaction, slightly chuckling as he said this. ¡°I will also be using my weakest move against you.¡±

    ¡°Heh, your weakest move? That¡¯s some arrogance you have there,¡± Connor could not help but treat Aurus¡¯ words as hot air.

    Nheless, Aurus continued preparing the weakest skill in his arsenal¡­well spell in his arsenal, which was [Spirit Wind Bolt]. A rough magic circle was conjured inside his Spell Core a few secondster, and then¡­

    Whoosh!

    In an instant, a bolt of wind energy was shot out from his Spell Core and headed towards Connor at a speed that was simr to blinking one¡¯s eye.

    Bang!

    At the next instant, everyone saw Connor¡¯s body start to disintegrate into splinters and small red and green particles as these particles were absorbed by Aurus¡¯ body.

    All of them were dumbfounded at the result of the duel, even Herellia was not spared from this reaction as she knew that Aurus was just barely able to critically injure an S-grade from an alliance back then. Other than the fact that the alliance skill took effect on him and he received a few skills from the inheritance, how could his firepower grow to this level?

    While others were dumbfounded, Aurus heard a notification sound as a screen popped up in front of his field of vision.

    Ding!

    ¡®You have dealt 4,636 HP damage to [Connor].¡¯

    ¡®Experience +500¡¯

    ¡®8 Life Points have been obtained.¡¯

    ¡®6 Will Points have been obtained.¡¯

    ¡®1000 Alliance Points have been obtained after killing an Executive that defied the alliance¡¯s leaderws.¡¯

    ¡®The Alliance Tech system has been activated.¡¯

    ¡®The Alliance Shop system has been activated.¡¯

 Chapter 72: Long Awaited Evolution

    Chapter 72: Long Awaited Evolution

    Aurus took a short nce at the notification screen that popped up in front of him before having a dumbfounded look on his nonexistent face as well.

    ¡°Alliance¡­tech and shop system?¡± Aurus tried to recall how this system worked, rummaging through each and every unsealed memory in his mind, only toe to naught.

    ¡°I¡¯ll just think about thister. If else, I could just ask Herellia about this.¡± He hastily closed the notification screen in front of him and looked at the stupefied alliance members. He then looked at Herellia, who was looking at him.

    ¡°H-h-h-how¡­¡± Forming a somewhat unstable connection through SP, this was the only word that Herellia could blurt out.

    Aurus could not help but let out a cheerful aura before responding to Herellia¡¯s statement. ¡°My skills have reached its limit.¡±

    It took a while for Herellia to process Aurus¡¯ words since she was still dumbfounded by Aurus¡¯ showcase of power, but she was still able to respond with an ¡®Un¡¯ sound before removing the connection between the two.

    ¡°You¡¯ve definitely improved from when Ist saw you.¡± After disconnecting from the SP connection, a voice that was familiar to Aurus resounded in his mind, startling him a bit before looking around to see who it was.

    After a few seconds, Aurus could feel a slightly cheerful aura from a branch that was exuding intense waves of SP. It was none other than one of the first Pir level members he met, Horell.

    ¡°Hehe, it¡¯s still nothingpared to your strength, Horell.¡± Aurus could not help but humble down when looking at Horell. Although Aurus knew that he was supported by the Existence Evolution System given to him by Kurohana and allowed him to be a strong mage, he knew that Horell had more experience as a mage due to the fact that he might have experimented with multiple incantations and such before reaching his current level today.

    ¡°Don¡¯t be too humble, Aurus. It¡¯s fine to feel proud every once in a while,¡± Horell said as a response. ¡°Anyways, after the current situation dies down, I¡¯ll bring you to a tour around our alliance.¡±

    ¡°Mm, got it,¡± Aurus¡¯ aura became more cheerful before disconnecting from Horell¡¯s SP connection.

    ¡°Eh¡­¡± It was at this exact moment that the alliance members woke up from their stupor, looking at Aurus as some sort of deity. Although they were S-grades backed up by the alliance, they could only fight against a being of a grade higher than a standstill. All of them knew that defeating them was harder than that, and killing them in one shot was EXTREMELY HARDER than that.

    They could not help but envy Aurus. Envy Aurus for the fact that he could do something that they didn¡¯t.

    ¡°You¡¯ve got to be kidding me! That¡¯s gotta be your strongest skill or something!¡± With each and every alliance member¡¯s feeling of envy reaching its peak, one alliance member could not help but voice out.

    ¡°Yes! Yes! That¡¯s definitely an ultimate skill right there!¡± Another alliance member agreed with the other member¡¯s statement.

    Not long after, the softints of a few members turned into the mor of almost every alliance member towards the strength of Aurus. With their feelings of envy clouding their judgement, the only thought they had in their head was¡­

    ¡®Since you¡¯re an A-grade, surely that¡¯s an ultimate skill right?!¡¯

    Aurus remained silent as he listened to the mor of the alliance members, remembering each and every characteristic of the member¡¯s bodies in the future. Although he was kind, he was not someone who did not bear grudges. Even if the reason behind it was their disbelief as to what he said.

    Looking further, he noticed that all of the Executive level and Pir level members remained silent as they stared at Aurus. Although Aurus did not know why, Aurus decided tomit their characteristics into memory as well, along with some of the normal alliance members who did not voice out.

    The reason why they kept their nonexistent mouths shut, was that¡­

    The power shown by Aurus was extremely simr to a someone they knew all too well.

    Herellia.

    At the early days of the alliance, the Pir level members could see Herellia, who was S-grade at the time, easily kill X-grade Inanimate beings like cutting radishes¡­every second.

    As for the Executive level members that joined a bitter than the Pir level ones, the overwhelming power that Herellia would always show when fighting resonated with the showcase of power Aurus did just a while ago.

    Even the normal alliance members that did not voice out felt the same feeling as the Executive level members, which was the same aura as Herellia.

    At this moment, Aurus could not help but let out a loudugh, silencing the alliance members that voiced theirints out to Aurus¡¯ weakest skill.

    ¡°Heh¡­you doubt my im huh?¡± Aurus could not help but let out a grim aura before shouting, ¡°Then witness this!¡±

    ¡°[Spirit Spear: eptance]!¡±

    Within a second, a floating Anima was converted into a Spirit Spear which then flew outside the hall at an extremely fast speed¡­well extremely fast for the normal members anyway.

    Whoosh!

    The alliance members that voiced theirints could not help but look at the Spirit Spear that was shot out, only to be stupefied by the aftermath of the Spirit Spear.

    Bang! Bang! Bang! Bang!

    Although the trees around the alliance¡¯s base of operations was sparse, as if it had a mind of its own, the Spirit Spear pierced through each and every tree that was visible to the alliance members, even going so far as to bursting the upper half.

    ¡°¡­¡± Seeing that Aurus was able to execute an extremely strong skill, the feelings of envy the alliance members showed were reced with feelings of fear, as if a monster joined their alliance.

    At this moment, Herellia spoke out. ¡°To all of the alliance members that had doubts as to Aurus¡¯ true power, it¡¯s better if you don¡¯t think about it. His limit is far from what you imagine.¡±

    ¡°You can all go do your own things now.¡± After this, Herellia turned around and gestured Aurus with a blood tendril as she hovered back to the long corridor.

    Aurus, who had the same n in mind, decided to follow Herellia from behind.

    ¡°Just shout my name out if you want me to take you on a tour.¡± As he followed Herellia, a voice resounded through his mind.

    ¡°Alright.¡± Aurus inwardly nodded as he disconnected from the SP connection.

    It took the two around ten minutes toe back to the small ecosystem that they traversed a while ago.

    Whoosh. Whoosh.

    The two of themnded on the end of the corridor. Herellia looked at Aurus and said, ¡°Hey Aurus, I have something to t¡ª¡±

    Just as Herellia summoned up the courage to tell Aurus about her system, Aurus could not help but ask, ¡°Do you have any secluded ce in here where I can¡¯t be disturbed?¡±

    ¡°Eh?¡± Of course, Herellia was not expecting this question, taking her a few seconds to ponder for a bit before answering, ¡°Head towards the building beside the alliance lobby. I¡¯m sure that there are a few secluded rooms there.¡±

    ¡°Alright, thanks!¡± Aurus let out a cheerful aura as a way of smiling before hovering towards the building beside the alliance lobby.

    ¡°Haah¡­¡± Herellia could not help but sigh to herself. ¡°Just as I was about to tell him about my system, he decides to move away.¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t know if this is a good thing or not.¡± In the end, Herellia put this incident in the back of her head, before going back to her usual duties.

    ¡­

    ¡°I finally made it.¡± Aurus looked at the building in front of him that took him around half an hour to traverse.

    The building did not look anything special at all from the outside, since it was just an extremelyrge stone cube. A doorway that was simr to the alliance lobby¡¯s size was carved onto the stone cube, allowing Aurus to enter an interior that was somewhat simr to a cozy wooden cabin.

    It took him a few minutes of exploring the inside to find the secluded room that Herellia was talking about, entering without hesitation not long after.

    ¡°Haah¡­¡± At this moment, Aurus let out a long sigh as the aura he exuded intensified by a great amount. ¡°I can finally stop suppressing this aura.¡±

    Ever since he became the owner of the Tempest Cliff Inheritance, the aura he exuded was intensified by multiple times, giving him an aura that couldpete against peak S-grade Inanimates.

    Of course, a jump like that would surprise Herellia once he came out, hence he suppressed it to a level where it was still believable.

    Now that he was alone in a secluded room, Aurus felt that his nonexistent chest felt lighter as he could not help but shout, ¡°I can finally evolve the skills I grinded!¡±

    ¡°System, open the notification log.¡±

    Ding!

    After clearing the inheritance, bing its owner, bing a part of the Tempest Branch Alliance, he was finally going to evolve his skills.

 Chapter 73: Soaring to New Heights

    Chapter 73: Soaring to New Heights

    Ding!

    ¡®[Middle-Low Spirit Spell Core (Wind Variant)] has reached the MAX level.¡¯

    ¡®[Spirit Energy Ascension] has reached the MAX level.¡¯

    ¡®[Purified Spirit Energy Core (Wind Variant)] has reached the MAX level.¡¯

    ¡®[Five Mncholy Spirit Spear] has reached the MAX level.¡¯

    ¡®[Greater Form Morph] has reached the MAX level.¡¯

    ¡®[High Rejuvenating Anima Creation] has reached the MAX level.¡¯

    ¡®[Unyielding Spiritas] has leveled up.¡¯

    ¡°Six skills,¡± Aurus said to himself with glee. ¡°I can evolve six skills right now, without worrying about others finding out my true strength.¡±

    To be honest, Aurus had the urge to evolve all of his skills before he reached the alliance¡¯s base of operations. But that would alert Herellia to his true strength, which would definitely shock in the instant she finds out.

    In other words, when he was fighting against Connor¡­well killing him off in one shot without any method of retaliation, his power was still suppressed. Of course, he would not suppress his power for too long.

    ¡°Let¡¯s start with the ones that don¡¯t have choices.¡±

    ¡°Evolve [Spirit Energy Ascension] and [Greater Form Morph],¡± Aurusmanded to the system. A few secondster, these two skills were changed into better skills that had more overbearing namespared to before.

    Ding!

    ¡®[Spirit Energy Ascension] has been evolved to [Spirit Power Transcendence].¡¯

    ¡®[Greater Form Morph] has been evolved to [Century Polymorph].¡¯

    Of course, with overbearing names like these, Aurus could not help but ask the system to show their information.

    Ding! Ding!

    ________

    [Spirit Power Transcendence] (Level 1/20)

    Grade: S (Mortal)

    SP, an energy that exists all over a being¡¯s surroundings. Formless, weightless, traceless, yet holds insurmountable power.

    This skill allows the user to transcend their body¡¯s limits in terms of power, to the level where it would be considered unbelievable to others.

    > Maximum power boost: 200% to all stats

    > The skill [Limit Transcendence] has been created, allowing the maximum power boost to be increased by 150 percent, making the maximum power boost reach 500%

    ________

    ________

    [Century Polymorph] (Level 1/10)

    Grade: A (Mortal)

    A Spiritas¡¯ Anima can take on many forms. One can be a branch, a tree, a drop of water, as long as it is not incorporeal, a Spiritas can transform into that form.

    This skill enhances the user¡¯s proficiency in morphing into many objects and species, save for Animate level species and higher.

    > Number of changeable forms: 100

    ________

    ¡°I wonder how high my damage would be if I fought against Connor one more time?¡± Reading the description for [Spirit Energy Transcendence], Aurus had a hunch that he could deal around 5000 HP or even 6000 HP damage with his weakest attack.

    ¡°Let¡¯s move onto the 4 remaining skills.¡± Content with the new effects of the first two skills that were evolved, Aurus decided to move on, choosing to evolve the skills that were rted to his SP.

    ¡°Evolve [Purified Spirit Energy Core], [High Rejuvenating Anima Creation], and [Middle-Low Spirit Spell Core],¡± Aurusmanded to the system. He then went silent for a bit before continuing, ¡°For [Purified Spirit Energy Core], choose the option that focuses on purity. As for [High Rejuvenating Anima Creation], choose the option that bolsters my SP storage and regenerative capabilities as usual. For my Spell Core¡­now that I think about it, just evolve it normally.¡±

    Ding!

    Just like some sort of ultra intelligent AI, the system was able to choose the options Aurus gave it within the blink of an eye.

    ¡®[Purified Spirit Energy Core (Wind Variant)] has been evolved to [Supreme Purity Spirit Energy Core (Wind Variant)].¡¯

    ¡®[High Rejuvenating Anima Creation] has been evolved to [Transcendent Vitality Anima Creation].¡¯

    ¡®[Middle-Low Spirit Spell Core (Wind Variant)] has been evolved to [Middle Spirit Spell Core (Wind Variant)].¡¯

    Reading through the new names of the evolved skills, Aurus could not help but mutter to himself, ¡°The system has a good choice for names, but it sounds something off of a ln eighth grader syndrome¡¯s fantasies.¡±

    He then shrugged his nonexistent shoulders and continued muttering, ¡°As long as it makes me stronger, I don¡¯t care.¡±

    He then looked at the remaining skill left on the notification log that wasn¡¯t evolved yet. From a simple [Nut Shot], it was now a skill that could deal insane amounts of damage. His nonexistent eyes could not help but gleam whenever he used the skill, basking in the effects of its every attack.

    ¡°Evolve [Five Mncholy Spirit Spear].¡±

    Ding!

    Not long aftermanding the system, a screen where three choices could be seen, appeared in front of Aurus¡¯ field of vision. These three choices were all improvements to his current skill, yet for some reason, only one caught his eye.

    ________

    Please choose the skill that [Five Mncholy Spirit Spear] would evolve into:

    [Six Paths Spirit Ball (Special)]

    [Five Elements Spirit de (Special)]

    [Spirit Sword of Seven Hells (Rare)]

    ________

    ¡°A Rare skill?¡± Aurus was caught by surprise after seeing that he had the ability to choose a Rare skill. Since a Rare skill was multiple times stronger than a Special skill, it was natural that Aurus would discard the first two as a choice for evolution. He then said, ¡°I choose [Spirit Sword of Seven Hells].¡±

    After confirming it through the system, Aurus was greeted by a notification screen not long after.

    Ding!

    ¡®[Five Mncholy Spirit Spear] has been evolved to [Spirit Sword of Seven Hells].¡¯

    And just like before with the other skills, he opened up the skill detail screen, wanting to see its new effects.

    Ding!

    Aurus hastily skimmed through the skill¡¯s description and instantly became appalled as this skill was basically the [Five Mncholy Spirit Spear], but many times better.

    ________

    [Spirit Sword of Seven Hells (Rare)] (Level 1/20)

    Grade: S (Mortal)

    An offensive skill based on the seven true sins of Animates, it offers the user multiplebinations and immense flexibility in terms of attack style. Nheless, the lower the hell, the stronger the spell.

    SP Cost: 20 SP (Sword of Greed), 50 SP (Sword of Lust), 80 SP (Sword of Gluttony), 100 SP (Sword of Sloth), 150 SP (Sword of Envy), 200 SP (Sword of Wrath), 250 SP to User¡¯s maximum SP (Sword of Pride)

    Cooldown: 20 seconds (all sword cooldowns are independent from one another)

    [Note: Mix and match, see whatbination suits your need.]

    ________

    ¡°This is¡­¡± Aurus was at a loss for words, realizing that it was pretty much the same as the skill¡¯s previous evolution but with the flexibility of mixing and matching skills to suit his needs.

    ¡°I¡¯ll take a look at the effects of each individual swordter,¡± Aurus muttered to himself before looking at his skill screen for a bit. Seeing that everything was basically evolved, Aurus left the secluded room he was in and left the building. He looked around for a bit and decided to shout out, ¡°Horell!¡±

    Whoosh!

    At the instant Aurus was finished shouting Horell¡¯s name, a silhouette that wasrger than Aurus by a few sizes, appeared in front of Aurus, startling him a little bit. ¡°You called?¡±

    Taking a few deep breaths through his body, Aurus calmed his emotions and looked at Horell for a bit before letting out a cheerful aura and saying, ¡°Could you take me on a tour through the alliance?¡±

    Horell let out a cheerful aura as well before replying, ¡°Sure, why not. I don¡¯t have anything to do since I¡¯m close to maxing out, and I was the one who offered you this, soe and follow me.¡±

    Afterwards, Horell started to hover off the ground. Of course, Aurus did not hesitate to hover as well, noticing that his Spell Core¡¯s evolution gave him a way to hover whenever he wanted.

    Whoosh!

    In a matter of seconds, the two of them wandered off towards the other buildings, with Horell acting as Aurus¡¯ tour guide.

    ¡­

    Within the Tempest Cliff, a small cabin could be seen built near the edge of a steep cliff. Inside this cabin was a small wolf that had extremely hard and tough fur, yet its aura was iparable to other wolves due to its immense innate strength.

    At this moment, the wolf was currently looking through three ss orbs, noticing that one of the branches in one of the orbs was killed off by an entity.

    The wolf could not help but click its tongue, muttering to itself, ¡°It seems that the Tempest Branch Alliance has noticed my spy. To think that the new member they admitted was the one to notice him.¡±

    ¡°I think it¡¯s time to hasten my preparations. Only I can be the sole owner of the Tempest Cliff.¡±

 Chapter 74: The World Beyond

    Chapter 74: The World Beyond

    Within the Tempest Cliff, a small cabin could be seen near the edge of a cliff, where a small wolf with extremely tough fur resided.

    ¡°Haah¡­it seems I have to hasten my ns since they found out, ¡± the wolf could not help but sigh after seeing that one of the spies it nted inside one of the three alliances was killed effortlessly.

    It walked around the interior of the cabin for a bit as it looked at the two other ss orbs which were still focused on two of the other spies it nted. It pondered for a bit before standing firm with the decision it formed. ¡°I think it¡¯s time to call them back and prepare for a full-scale war against the three alliances.¡±

    It mulled over the statement it said and shook his head not long after. ¡°No, it isn¡¯t worth fighting against the three alliances for this.¡± In the end, it could not help but sigh. ¡°If only I was still an Inanimate being, then negotiating with these alliances would be faster.¡±

    To Inanimate beings outside the Tempest Cliff, they would not know that this wolf was actually one of the superpowers of the Tempest Cliff, the only individual being that could beside the three alliances.

    The three alliances knew that this wolf evolved from a rock, but they did not know its name at all. To make things easier for those who oversee the world of Erudinia [1], the wolf¡¯s name is Chonk.

    ¡°Why did my body have to evolve all of a sudden? It¡¯s not like I wanted to evolve into an Animate at the instant I could!¡± Chonk could not help butin as it shouted loudly. Its voice echoed throughout the cabin, yet no one could hear it at all, turning into wisps of anger that dissipated into thin air.

    Chonk could not help but sigh once more as it started to formte a n in its mind, a n that would not anger the three alliances, and also help it transition to a Rank 1 ss.

    The method of strengthening as an Animate was multiple times harderpared to the method of strengthening as an Inanimate being, which mostly had to rely on absorbing the Life and Will particles of other Inanimate beings while strengthening their souls.

    Animate beings all start out with no ss, in other words, Rank 0. To start off in their journey to be a stronger Animate being, they must first find or create a Tempering technique, which would allow them to transition into the first step to strengthening as an Animate, a Rank 1 ss.

    Most of the time, Animates have a plethora of Tempering techniques to choose from due to the fact that they have created civilizations and foundations for strengthening that span multiple generations. As for Chonk, it did not have that option as it was a wolf, an Animate being, but was considered inferior to humans. Hence it had to create a Tempering technique of its own.

    There are different levels to Tempering techniques, due to the facts that Rank 1 sses have different levels of strengths. The most stringent the requirements of the Tempering technique, the stronger the power an Animate obtains once it transitions to a Rank 1 ss.

    Chonk¡¯s Tempering technique could be considered to be a part of those that have the most stringent requirements. Now you may ask, why? This is because the main material needed for Chonk to transition to a Rank 1 ss was¡­

    The core of the Tempest Cliff.

    ¡°I have an idea where the core of the Tempest Cliff resides, but I have no idea how to take it out.¡± Chonk lied down on the floor as the three ss orbs positioned themselves in front of its field of vision.

    Whoosh!

    ¡°Hm?¡± A few minutes passed by and Chonk heard a gust of winde from one of the ss orbs it used to survey the three alliances from within. It then tried to locate where the sound came from, only to find out that it came from the orb where the spy from the Tempest Branch Alliance was killed.

    ¡°Eh? It came from Connor¡¯s orb?¡± Chonk¡¯s eyes were filled with curiosity as it manipted the view of the orb towards the whole base of operations of the alliance, sensing an intense aura of wind not long after.

    ¡°Such an intense aura of Wind!¡± Chonk could not help but exim as it tried to find the origin of the aura. After a few minutes of analysis, Chonk was surprised to find that the origin of the intense aura was from the one that killed its spy, Connor.

    ¡°Hmm¡­an intense yet pure aura of wind,ing from such a measly A-grade Inanimate.¡± Being an Animate who evolved from an Inanimate, it was easy for Chonk to assess the being¡¯s grade. A few secondster, a crazy n was formted in its mind, acting as a backup n to its first n. Chonk stood up on all four legs as it muttered to himself, ¡°Alright, I should try searching for the core of the Tempest Cliff for now.¡±

    ¡°If not¡­¡±

    ¡°That A-grade Inanimate will be my main material!¡±

    ¡­

    Within the Tempest Cliff, Tempest Branch Alliance¡¯s base of operations.

    ¡°¡­And this is the final building within the small ecosystem of our alliance, the Sparring Tower, ¡± Horell exined to Aurus who was hovering beside him.

    Aurus nodded at Horell¡¯s words and asked not long after, ¡°What¡¯s the purpose of the Sparring Tower?¡±

    Before he got into his current situation, Aurus and Horell traversed the whole ecosystem of the alliance as Horell exined the purpose and the name of each and every building. While this was urring, Aurus was experimenting with the newest spell he got from evolving his Spell Core, [Tempest Levitation]. After a few tests, Aurus realized that [Tempest Levitation] was just a toggleable version of [Gale Hover]. In other words, he could now permanently fly! Well¡­technically.

    After passing through the Alliance Lobby, the Meditation Chambers, the Life and Will Fountain, and the Skill Emporium, Aurus and Horell now hovered in front of the Sparring Tower, which was the situation they were now currently in.

    ¡°Well¡­¡± Horell pondered for a bit before replying, ¡°The Sparring Tower is basically the ce where you can test out your newfound skills or powers. You can fight against immobile objects or objects that don¡¯t attack, and even vice versa.¡±

    After hearing Horell¡¯s exnation of the Sparring Tower, a brilliant idea shed in Aurus¡¯ mind as he asked, ¡°Is this also a ce where we can polish our skills?¡±

    Of course, Aurus did not mention any inkling of the system he had, as he knew he was a unique case¡­as well as Herellia.

    Horell then let out a cheerful aura as he replied to Aurus¡¯ question, ¡°Haha, I knew you¡¯d catch on! That¡¯s right, the Sparring Tower is also a ce where we can master the skills we currently have. Not only that, there might be cases where your skills ascend to greater heights!¡±

    ¡­

    A few minutester, Horell left Aurus in front of the Sparring Tower as Aurus asked Horell that he would be entering the Sparring Tower to test out his skills. Since Aurus had a resolute aura about him, Horell lightly chuckled before leaving him alone.

    Taking a few deep breaths, Aurus headed inside the Sparring Tower and entered one of the many rooms where Inanimate beings tested their skills out.

    nk.

    Aurus tightly closed the door into the room shut and stared at the only thing that was in the room other than him, a long pole made out of stone.

    ¡°So¡­is this the immobile object Horell was talking about?¡± Aurus could not help but let out a stifledugh as heposed himself. ¡°Well¡­I¡¯ll just ask Herellia about the ins and outs of the Sparring Towerter.¡±

    ¡°For now¡­¡±

    Whoosh!

    With a single thought in his mind, a floating Anima was hastily stretched into a thin sword, which was then infused with Aurus¡¯ SP. Around one-tenth of a secondter, this twin sword made out of Anima glowed an impure red, giving others the feeling that it wanted to keep everything to itself.

    Aurus looked at the sword he formed and nodded inwardly beforemanding the sword to head towards the long pole and sh diagonally.

    ¡°Let¡¯s see the limits of my new offensive skill.¡±

    ¡°Sword of Greed, sh!¡¯

    ¡ª¡ª¨C

    [1] You, the readers

 Chapter 75: Reliance on the Alliance

    Chapter 75: Reliance on the Alliance

    ¡°Sword of Greed, sh!¡±

    Bang!

    Thanks to Aurus¡¯ upgraded movement speed, the sword that he sent out collided with the long stone pole in a matter of an instant, a somewhat loud explosion resounding in the process. A few tiny pieces of the stone pole fell to the ground, revealing the result of the attack to Aurus.

    ¡°What¡­¡± Aurus could not believe what he was seeing. As the thin red sword he sent out gradually dissipated into thin air, the result of the collision that was shown¡­was hardly visible at all. If one looked intently at the long stone pole from close up, then would only one see an extremely silver scratch on the long stone pole, revealing to anyone the sturdiness of the stone pole.

    Ding!

    ¡°Eh? The system considers this as a real attack?¡± Not long after the dissipation of the sword he shot out, a notification sound was heard, with a screen popping up in front of his field of vision not a momentter as well.

    ¡®Aurus has dealt 1221 HP damage to [Stone Pole].¡¯

    ¡°Hisss¡­¡± Aurus took a deep breath through his body, not believing the number that was currently shown on the screen in front of him. He shot out another [Sword of Greed] towards the long stone pole, only to get the same result from the system. He then shot out another [Sword of Greed] one more time, and got the same result just like before. Only then did he believe that the damage he dished out was real.

    ¡°Although this isn¡¯t my weakest skill¡­¡± Aurus could still not fathom at how much damage he could now currently deal. ¡°I wonder how destructive it could get after being boosted with [Spirit Power Transcendence].¡±

    Putting the shock he received after seeing the damage he could deal with the weakest technique from the [Spirit Sword of Seven Hells], Aurus was about to conjure the second sword until a few words that wererge enough to be seen from far away, hovered in front of the long stone pole.

    ¡°Damage: 1.22 points?¡± Aurus was confused at the words that popped up at first, but then he remembered the damage he dealt a while ago. ¡°Ah¡­is this the equivalent of seeing damage Inanimates deal without a system like mine?¡±

    He had a feeling that this was the case, but he could not wrap his head around the fact that the damage he dealt, which was over a thousand HP, was reduced to about one-thousandth of its size. ¡°I wonder what it corresponds to¡­anyways, I don¡¯t need to look at that since I have the system with me.¡±

    Whoosh!

    Without hesitation, a floating Anima was transformed into a thin orange sword that radiated an aura of intense charm, as if the sword was the most beautiful thing anyone would every their eyes on.

    Of course, Aurus was the conjurer of the sword, hence he was not affected by the skill. That did not stop him from sensing the power the sword heldpared to the previous one he conjured. A few seconds, he noticed that the aura it radiated reached a peak, and shot it not long after.

    ¡°Sword of Lust, sh!¡±

    Bang!

    Of course, since the Sword of Lust came after the Sword of Greed, it boasted an attack power that was higherpared to the previous sword, gradually making Aurus understand the uses of the sword.

    And so, Aurus continued to the five remaining sword forms of the [Spirit Sword of Seven Hells], taking about a few minutes for every sword to find a usage for it.

    ¡­

    Weeennnggg¡­

    Hovering above Aurus¡¯ body, a thin white sword, emanating an aura that made it seem like it was the only item in existence capable of killing gods and demons alike, was conjured by Aurus after using up all of his SP.

    While looking at the sword he created, Aurus could not help but feel a sense of familiarity to the sword, muttering to himself, ¡°So this is the upgraded form of [Spirit Spear: eptance]?¡±

    Afterwards, he shot the sword towards the stone pole, controlling to sh from top to bottom as he shouted, ¡°Sword of Pride, sh!¡±

    Bang!

    An explosion that was louder than before resounded throughout the training room Aurus was practicing his skills in. Even Aurus could not help but feel inwardly shocked after hearing that explosion. He let the sword dissipate into thin air first before looking at the result of the sh¡­which shocked him to his core¡­well pith.

    A sh that was about a centimeter deep appeared on the surface of the stone pole, letting Aurus know the ferocity and strength of the final de he sent out. As he was amazed at the power of the final sword, the gash that was left on the stone pole gradually repaired itself, returning to a state where it seemed like such an attack did not happen at all in the first ce.

    Ding!

    Of course, Aurus did not mind this happening at all since it was a training dummy, it was meant to have regenerative properties anyway. He decided to look at the screen that appeared in front of his field of vision as he heard the notification sound that appeared.

    ¡®Aurus has dealt 4623 HP damage to [Stone Pole].¡¯

    ¡°¡­¡± After seeing the damage he dealt with the strongest sword form, Aurus could not help but look at the skill [Spirit Power Transcendence] in a new light. ¡°To think that the reason why I can fight against beings higher than my current grade is because of this skill¡­¡±

    ¡°I should really grind this more,¡± Aurus could not help but chuckle after saying this.

    As usual, a few words appeared in front of the stone pole, telling Aurus how much damage he dealt.

    ¡°Damage: 4.62 points. How much would I possibly deal if I had [Spirit Power Transcendence] activated?¡±

    Satisfied and content with the damage he could currently deal, Aurus decided to use [Grand Vitality and Spirit Transformation] to hastily replenish his SP bar at the cost of his HP. After noticing that his SP bar was filled to the brim, he activated the spell he was using a while ago to tour around with Horell, [Tempest Levitation]. He gradually hovered bit by bit off the ground before leaving the Sparring Tower and deciding to head back to the main hall of the alliance.

    Whoosh!

    In the midst of his flight, he could not help but recall a certain thing that he received a while ago, which he put at the back of his head as he did not understand how it worked. Since he was currently flying with no goal at the moment, he decided that it was a good time to check the thing he received out.

    ¡°Open Alliance Tech.¡±

    Ding!

    Not long aftermanding the system, a semitransparent screen appeared in front of his field of vision, making him gasp at the new feature he received.

    ________

    [Tempest Branch Alliance Tech]

    Alliance Points: 1000

    ¡ª¡ª¨C

    HP Boost: 0% (Costs 3 Alliance Points to upgrade)

    SP Boost: 0% (Costs 3 Alliance Points to upgrade)

    Defense Stat Boost: 0% (Costs 1 Alliance Point to upgrade)

    Vitality Stat Boost: 0% (Costs 1 Alliance Point to upgrade)

    Attack Stat Boost: 0% (Costs 1 Alliance Point to upgrade)

    ________

    ¡°What the fuck¡­¡± Aurus could not help but curse at what he was seeing. After entering the alliance, he identally received a feature rted to the alliance after killing Connor, who was an executive member of the alliance. In fact, the Alliance Tech system was just one of the two features he received, the other one being the Alliance Shop system.

    He gazed at the screen for a bit before recalling a certain memory from his previous life as he said to himself, ¡°It¡¯s just like those idle games I y on my phone back then. I wonder what the maximum boosts on these things are.¡±

    With his interest piqued by the first new feature he opened up, it was not peculiar for Aurus to open up the second new feature as the first one was already enough to stupefy him.

    ¡°Open Alliance Shop.¡±

    Ding!

    As usual, a screen appeared in front of Aurus¡¯ field of vision while it was apanied by a notification sound. Aurus took a nce at the screen and could not help but let his nonexistent eyes widen at what the feature offered.

    ________

    [Tempest Branch Alliance Shop]

    Alliance Points: 1000

    Stock resets in 12 hours!

    ¡ª¡ª¨C

    [Active Skill ¡ª Stick Clone] ¨C 500 Alliance Points

    [Passive Skill ¡ª Longevity] ¨C 300 Alliance Points

    [Passive Skill ¡ª Spirit Expansion] ¨C 750 Alliance Points

    [Active Skill ¡ª Reaper¡¯s Verdict] ¨C 1700 Alliance Points

    [Active Skill ¡ª Spirit Aura (Rare)] ¨C 3000 Alliance Points

    ________

    ¡°Hoh?¡± Aurus could not help but utter this sound after seeing what the shop was selling. ¡°To think that the alliance would give me ess to more skills¡­let¡¯s see what they have to offer.¡±

    With the help of the system, Aurus identified each and every skill one by one, from [Stick Clone] to [Reaper¡¯s Verdict]. Some of the skills made him feel disappointed, while others made him want to ask Herellia on how to get more Alliance Points.

    ¡°I wonder what this [Spirit Aura] offers. From the fact that it¡¯s a Rare skill, it¡¯s definitely going to be something pretty good.¡± Since [Spirit Aura] was the only skill that Aurus did not identify yet, hemanded the system to identify the skill, with slight expectation at its use.

    Ding!

    Not long after, the details of the skill were revealed to Aurus, prompting him to skim through the text written on the screen. Then¡­

    ¡°[Tempest Burst]!¡±

    Whoosh!

    Without hesitation, Aurus activated one of the skills he would only use when he needed it the most. Aurus did indeed need the powers of the skill at this moment. Why?

    It was because the things [Spirit Aura] offered to Aurus would allow him to be an even stronger mage than ever before.

    ¡°This skill is too OP!¡± Aurus could not help but shout inwardly. ¡°How the heck do I get more Alliance Points?!¡±

    ¡°Herellia?¡±

    ¡°Herellia?¡± With his rationality and logicality being consumed by the craze of wanting to obtain the skill, Aurus started to shout as he flew back to the hall at great speed.

    ¡°Herellia, where the fuck are you?¡±

 Chapter 76: Prelude to the Madness

    Chapter 76: Prelude to the Madness

    Whoosh!

    Whoosh!

    Whoosh!

    Even though the duration of [Tempest Burst] was done after about 30 seconds or so, in the midst of his crazed emotions of wanting to obtain more Alliance Points, Aurus subconsciously noticed that [Tempest Burst] was done, casting [Gale Hover] on himself, which boosted him to a speed that was faster whenpared to his previous speed with [Tempest Burst] activated.

    ¡°Herellia? Where are you?¡± Of course, Aurus did not forget to scream out Herellia¡¯s name as he continued to fly through the alliance base. Not long after the start of Aurus¡¯ crazed motion of calling out for Herellia, some members at the lowest level of the hierarchy could not help but look at Aurus weirdly for a bit before passing the message onto another Inanimate being.

    Gradually, the lowest members would pass it to the Executive level members, which would then be passed onto the Pir level members. It only took a couple of hours or so for the news of Aurus calling Herellia out to spread throughout the alliance base.

    ¡­

    Within a specific part of the Tempest Branch Alliance¡¯s base of operations.

    Not knowing what was urring throughout the alliance base, Herellia was currently upied with honing the [Tetraelemental Tempest Affinity] skill she obtained from the Tempest Cliff Inheritance. Concurrently, she was also honing the [Blessing of the Tetraelemental Tempest] skill where the respective affinity skill came from.

    Fwoosh!

    With her sense of vision shut off, she started to sense the rapid movement of the energy particles that surrounded her body, most of them being of the Wind element. A few secondster, with the help of her original [Tempest Affinity] skill, she manipted a few of these Wind element particles and forced them to coalesce as the image of a raging fire consumed her thoughts.

    Not long after, a small green spark started to appear above Herellia¡¯s body, which gradually intensified to the point where a soft explosion resounded throughout where she was, prompting her to open her eyes.

    She could not help but focus her vision on the top of her body as a small green me started to crackle and flicker like a normal me. If not for the fact that the me was colored green, then it would be hard for someone to notice that it was made out of Wind element particles.

    Ding!

    Not long after being mesmerized by the sight of the Wind me, a screen appeared in front of Herellia¡¯s field of vision with a notification sound apanying it.

    ¡®[Tetraelemental Tempest Affinity] has leveled up.¡¯

    ¡®[Blessing of the Tetraelemental Tempest] has leveled up.¡¯

    Seeing that both of the skills she was honing leveled up, she could not help but let out a cheerful aura.

    Whoosh!

    Basking in the happiness of growing slightly stronger, Herellia could not help but stop celebrating her feats as she heard a few bushes rustle from not far away, making her vignt as to what or who the being that made the bushes rustle was.

    A few secondster, the being that rustled the bushes was finally revealed to Herellia who was vignt all this time, making her let out a sigh of relief as she said, ¡°Oh, it was just you Horell.¡±

    ¡°Hehe, I do apologize for disturbing you,¡± Horell let out a chuckle as he replied to Herellia¡¯s statement.

    Fwoosh!

    Herellia decided to extinguish the Wind me she created just a while ago before continuing to talk with Horell. ¡°So? What brings you here when you know I¡¯m currently training?¡±

    Horell maintained a cheerful aura about him as he replied, ¡°Since you¡¯re training, then it¡¯s expected that you haven¡¯t heard of what Aurus was doing, right?¡±

    ¡°Aurus?¡± Herellia was confused as to why this name popped up in Horell¡¯s conversation. ¡°Did he do something wrong?¡±

    ¡°Oh no, not at all.¡± Horell chuckled. ¡°It¡¯s just that he¡¯s searching for you throughout the whole alliance base. I feel like he would go to great lengths just to find you if you don¡¯t respond long enough.¡±

    ¡°Eh?¡± Herellia could not help but utter. ¡°Why does he want to find me?¡± Since Horell told Herellia that Aurus was currently searching for her, Herellia subconsciously activated her movement skill, waiting to move at the instant she could do so.

    ¡°I don¡¯t know, but sensing from the aura he¡¯s emanating, I¡¯m pretty sure it¡¯s important,¡± Horell replied, which was then answered by a strong gust of wind not long after. Before Horell could even speak a bit more, Herellia was already gone, activating her movement skill to the fullest.

    ¡°Hah¡­¡± Horell could not help but sigh as he lightly chuckled. ¡°I guess Herellia relies on Aurus a lot.¡± Not long after, Horell started to hover in ce before muttering to himself, ¡°Then again, they¡¯re the two things that are the impetus for a great change in the Tempest Cliff.¡±

    Whoosh!

    And just like that, the ce where Herellia was training was now left vacant in just a few seconds.

    ¡­

    ¡°Herellia? Herellia¡­¡± Even after a couple of hours have passed, Aurus did not stop shouting Herellia¡¯s name, subconsciously using the [Gale Hover] spell every time it was off cooldown. If one were to calcte the distance Aurus has traversed throughout these past couple hours, it would equal to the distance a normal person would walk in about one and a half hours or so, around 7.5 kilometers to be specific.

    ¡°Herellia? Herellia¡ª¡± In the midst of his crazed shouting, Aurus stopped where he was hovering from and noticed an ever familiar silhouette that was covered in red engravings. In an instant, the aura Aurus emitted changed from crazed into a cheerful one as he flew towards her while he shouted, ¡°Herellia!¡±

    ¡°¡­¡± On the other hand, sensing Aurus¡¯ cheerful expression, Herellia could not help but stay silent as she waited for Aurus to get closer. It only took Aurus around a few seconds to decrease the gap between them to a few meters, prompting Herellia to ask, ¡°I heard from Horell that you were searching for me these past few hours. What¡¯s wrong?¡±

    ¡°Haah¡­¡± Aurus let out a sigh as only now did he realize that the actions he did these past few hours were a bit too overboard. Although he was a human at heart, he was currently a stick, hence emotions did not affect him that much unless it reached a certain threshold. Composing himself, he then replied, ¡°Let¡¯s go somewhere private.¡±

    Although saying that in his previous world would elicit some disgusted looks from women, since Herellia took Aurus¡¯ words literally, she replied with ¡°Okay.¡±

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    A few minutester, the two of them hovered under a tree that was somewhat far away from the alliance¡¯s base of operations. Aurus looked at the surroundings for a bit before muttering to himself, ¡°I guess this is a good ce.¡±

    Of course, Herellia could not help but look at the surroundings as well before asking, ¡°So¡­why¡¯d you want to find me?¡±

    ¡°Hehe.¡± Aurus could only let out a stifled chuckle. ¡°I just wanted to know how to obtain Alliance Points since I obtained 1000 Alliance Points from killing Connor back then. I don¡¯t know any other way to obtain them to be honest.¡±

    ¡°Wha¡ª¡± Herellia was dumbfounded. She did not expect that this was the reason why Aurus wanted to find her. Composing her emotions, she asked, ¡°Did you unlock the Alliance Tech and Alliance Shop feature perchance?¡±

    ¡°Yeah, why?¡± Aurus did not hide anything from Herellia since this had something to do with the alliance anyway.

    ¡°Well¡­I figured as much,¡± Herellia could only softly sigh as she replied. ¡°Anyways, there are multiple ways of obtaining Alliance Points. You could either do Alliance missions, kill members that have malicious intentions, or¡­¡±

    ¡°Kill a lot of Inanimate beings.¡±

    ¡°Wait¡­what?¡± Now, it was Aurus¡¯ turn to be confused. He did not expect that the one of the ways where he could earn a ton of Alliance points was something he used to do before entering the Tempest Branch Alliance. Lightly coughing after Herellia¡¯s response, he then asked, ¡°What¡¯s the fastest way to earn a lot of Alliance Points then?¡±

    ¡°Killing Inanimate beings,¡± Herellia instantly replied without hesitation.

    ¡°Do their grades give out different amounts of Alliance Points?¡± Aurus asked as a follow-up question.

    ¡°Yep,¡± Herellia replied. ¡°C-grades give out 1 Alliance Point each, B-grades give out 3 Alliance Points, A-grades give out 5 Alliance Points, S-grades give out 9 Alliance Points, and X-grades give out 15 Alliance Points.¡±

    Hearing that he could obtain 15 Alliance Points for every X-grade Inanimate he kills, Aurus could not help but feel his motivation rising up to great heights. In his previous life while ying Infinite Stick Evolution, he would usually go and do PvP with other yers, which was surprisingly the reason why he felt his motivation rise up.

    Letting out a cheerful aura, he then said, ¡°I see. Thanks Herellia. I¡¯ll repay you for this information once I get back.¡±

    ¡°Alright then,¡± Herellia replied before instantly putting the thought at the back of her head. The only thought that upied her mind currently was the fact that she had to level up and evolve both skills that were rted to the Tetraelemental Tempest. Seeing that her job was done, she turned around and hastily went back to the alliance base, leaving Aurus alone under the tree.

    Normally, the boy would be sad when the girl left him alone. In this case, Aurus was ecstatic to see Herellia hastily leave.

    ¡°Fenrir,e out!¡±

    Whoosh!

    A few secondster, a stick that wasrger than Aurus with two protrusions on one of its end, appeared in front of Aurus as the small twig on the other stick¡¯s end started to sway left to right.

    ¡°Master!¡±

    ¡°Fenrir.¡± Aurus could not help but feel happy that he was finally able to utilize Fenrir in a real situation. ¡°It¡¯s time for you to get stronger.¡±

    ¡°Stronger¡­¡± In an instant, the aura around Fenrir turned into an ecstatic one that was filled with hints of ferocity in it. ¡°Yes! I get stronger so I protect Master!¡±

    ¡°Haha.¡± Aurus could not help butugh after hearing Fenrir¡¯s response. He then turned his body towards a certain direction before looking at Fenrir and asking, ¡°Are you ready to start getting stronger?¡±

    With Fenrir¡¯s bloodlust being ignited by Aurus¡¯ previous words, Fenrir could only respond with, ¡°Yes, Master!¡±

 Chapter 77: Wind Dragons Four Forms

    Chapter 77: Wind Dragon¡¯s Four Forms

    While Aurus and Fenrir were just beginning their killing spree of multiple Inanimate beings, on another part of the same continent where Aurus was, within the Arcana Tower found in the Seraph Kingdom, Dane currently had his eyes glimmer like the stars in the night sky as a few days have passed since he bought the Gale Dragon Wood from Jihan.

    ¡°Haha! I finally did it!¡± Dane could not help butugh as he stood up from his seat, extending his right hand outward as a small magic circle appeared in front of it, harnessing all of the Wind element particles in Dane¡¯s surroundings.

    ¡°First Circle, Holos Opse Singulus Trigitas!¡± He then started to chant an incantation he made, which gave the small magic circle he formed more power as the overbearing feeling of a wind dragon started to radiate out of the magic circle.

    Bit by bit, the strength that the magic circle grew stronger as time passed, making the aura that Dane felt intensify by a few times as he gradually walked from where he was towards one of the walls. As he gradually got closer to the walls, he could not help but mutter, ¡°Since I¡¯m a Rank 4 High Mage, the room I¡¯m currently in could withstand the might of High Level 2 Spells at most. I can still shoot out the second form of the spell incantation after this.¡±

    Roar!

    A few secondster, a soft roar could be hearding from the magic circle as the aura the circle radiated reached its peak. Dane could not help but smile as he straightened his extended arm before shouting, ¡°[Wind Dragon¡¯s Four Forms]¡­¡±

    ¡°[Wind Dragon¡¯s Aura w]!¡±

    Bang!

    As the magic circle was shot out towards one of the walls of Dane¡¯s room, the magic circle instantly condensed into a small yet condensed green w that shed at the wall, letting out some soft yet harsh scratching sounds which were a result of the collision between the w and the wall.

    Dane looked at the damage dealt by the spell he used and nodded as he said to himself, ¡°The damage this first form could deal is 5 points when mastered if I remember what I wrote these past few days. Considering that the walls of the room can handle around 30 points of damage at most, I¡¯d say that¡¯s already enough to make or break the bnce between the Highness and the other princes.¡±

    After recording the oue of the first spell he shot out with a crystal orb on standby, he started to conjure another magic circle. This time, the magic circle had twoyers, which meant that the incantation would now be longer.

    ¡°Second Circle, Holos Supris Vitalis Singulus, Holos Opse Widus Grandus!¡±

    Whoosh! Roar!

    Compared to before, a soft roar could be heard at the instant the incantation was finished. Not only that, the aura that the magic circle radiated was far beyond the aura the first spell could exude as it gave anyone who sensed it the feeling of being stared at by a wind dragon.

    After a few seconds, the umtion of power within the magic circle reached its peak, prompting Dane to shout, ¡°[Wind Dragon¡¯s Four Forms: Wind Dragon¡¯s Fury]!¡±

    Bang!

    Without dy, the magic circle that was shot out condensed into two small green ws this time, with each of them being imbued with a sharp and swift Wind energy around them. Not long after, the ws and the wall collided, producing a harsh scratching sound that would possibly make one¡¯s ears bleed. As for Dane, he looked at this with an emotionless expression on his face, silently chanting a few spells as he tried to gauge the damage the second spell could deal.

    After a while, the green ws dissipated, revealing a few grooves on the wall that were around two to three centimeters deep. A few secondster, the grooves on the wall started to repair themselves, returning back to a state that was as if they weren¡¯t there at all. It was only at this moment did Dane mutter, ¡°Damage level of 20 points, that¡¯s already a lot, considering the fact that this would be boosted even further with the Highness¡¯s ss. If he reached the ss level of Rank 3 before the fight, his victory would most likely be assured.¡±

    He could not help but sigh afterwards. ¡°Nheless, the Highness could only handle up to Level 2 Spells at most. Level 3 Spells would definitely put a huge burden on his body, while Level 4 Spells would definitely destroy his internal organs.¡±

    ¡°Hehe.¡± Dane then sat down on the chair he was previously sitting on before retrieving something stiff from under the desk in front of him. Dane carefully pulled it out, revealing a piece of wood that exuded a somewhat strong aura of Wind energy, letting anyone feel the caress of the wind. Not only that, if one was a Mage or someone who has high perception, one would feel that the aura it exuded had a basic pattern to it, with how the Wind energy surrounding it being arranged in a specific way.

    Dane could not help but raise the piece of wood up as he said to himself, ¡°Thankfully, after doing numerous experiments on this Gale Dragon Wood, I knew that Jihan was telling the truth. This piece of Gale Dragon Wood does have signs of a soul forming inside it!¡±

    ¡°Now, if I can convert the energy of this iplete soul into a type of energy that could support the weapon¡¯s spell casting, then it might not be impossible for the Highness to use Level 3 Spells while only receiving light injuries!¡±

    With a n formed in his mind, Dane stood up once more as he willed a piece of cloth to wrap around the Gale Dragon Wood tightly using his mana. He then tied this piece of cloth to the insides of the robe he wore before heading out of the 40th floor of the Arcana Tower, going downwards to the 1st floor, and leaving the Arcana Tower after that.

    As Dane walked out of the Arcana Tower, the first thing he saw was the long line of people that led up to the multiple entrances of the Arcana Tower. Dane could not help but chuckle as he looked at this. ¡°It seems there has been an influx of people wanting to be magic-rted sses these past few days. Does that mean that I have to look over more people and take in more students?¡±

    Putting the current sight at the back of his mind, Dane started to walk towards a certain direction as he tried to recall a certain ce in his memories which sold one of the materials he needed to craft the Ninth Prince¡¯s weapon with. Since he was a High Mage and was well-versed in creating staves and other sorts of weapons imbued with magic, Dane had a foundation for weapon knowledge, which meant that he knew a lot of materialbinations that would synergize and amplify each other¡¯s characteristics.

    ¡­

    With Dane using a movement buff spell on himself, it only took him a few minutes to stand in front of the certain ce he recalled. ¡°This is the one, I hope they have what I need.¡±

    The building in front of him looked like something out of medieval times¡­if it wasn¡¯t for the fact thatrge gears and hydraulics mostly covered the walls of this building. If one looked hard enough, one would see a metal sign beside arge gear with the words ¡®Krodel¡¯s Rare Goods¡¯.

    Ding!

    Dane entered the building as the door chimes swayed with the breeze, alerting the staff of his arrival. In an instant, one of the staff hastily went up to Dane and respectfully bowed before saying, ¡°Wee to Krodel¡¯s Rare Goods, dear customer. How may we help you today?¡±

    Rather than replying to the staff¡¯s question, Dane fished out an item from the insides of his robes and revealed it to the staff that attended to him. It was a simple badge made out of metal that radiated a faint green glow. Nheless, it was enough to make the staff¡¯s jaw drop while Dane started to talk. ¡°I have an esteemed badge bestowed by Krodel himself, is he here at the moment?¡±

    The staff, which was dumbfounded from the sight of the badge, snapped back to reality after hearing Dane¡¯s words. The staff nodded furiously as he asked, ¡°Certainly, esteemed guest. Would you like me to take you to where he currently is?¡±

    ¡°Please do,¡± Dane replied. Since the staff was polite to him, then Dane would reciprocate the politeness by being polite as well. It only took a few minutes for the staff member and Dane to head towards a small pond with a bench by the side. On that bench was a man with graying hair, but exuded an aura of intense vitality and strength.

    Seeing the man¡¯s silhouette, Dane¡¯s eyes lit up as he said to the staff, ¡°You may now leave.¡±

    Of course, the staff member was d that he could stay away from these two monsters, so he respectfully bowed to Dane and left not long after.

    ¡°Heh¡­it¡¯s quite a rare urrence for you toe to my shop.¡± Just as Dane was about to walk towards the man on the bench, the man on the bench turned around to face as he started to speak.

    At that moment, a face of an average middle-aged man could be seen, which gave out an amiable and easy-going aura, contrasting with the aura the man gave out a while ago.

    ¡°Well, you¡¯re the first person toe across my mind since I need a specific material,¡± Dane could not help but chuckle as he replied while walking towards the man. Since they were basically of the same rank, Dane did not hesitate to sit beside the man.

    ¡°That¡¯s why my shop is named Krodel¡¯s Rare Goods, if it¡¯s rare, then we definitely have it in stock.¡± The man chuckled after hearing Dane¡¯s statement. He then followed up with, ¡°So¡­what material do you want to buy?¡±

    Dane pondered for a bit before looking at the man straight into the eyes and saying, ¡°Spirit Star Steel.¡±

 Chapter 78: How Much is Too Much?

    Chapter 78: How Much is Too Much?

    Although Aurus and Fenrir were hunting within the boundaries of the Tempest Cliff, which is said to be a ce teeming with S-grade and X-grade Inanimates, it was not to the point that every step a person would take would allow them to see an S-grade Inanimate or an X-grade Inanimate.

    It took them around ten minutes of traversing around, with Aurus relying on his [Spirit Detection] spell, and Fenrir relying on his [Keen Senses] skill, to finally catch wind of a dangerous Inanimate.

    In actuality, Fenrir was the first one to notice the dangerous aura, alerting Aurus as Fenrir¡¯s body pointed towards the aura¡¯s direction. ¡°Master, there¡¯s danger at that direction!¡±

    ¡°Hm?¡± Aurus would always cast [Spirit Detection] at the instant it was off cooldown, and it would allow him to scan for beings at a radius exceeding 100 meters. Yet for some reason, Fenrir was the one to find an X-grade Inanimate first?

    ¡°It¡¯s probably because [Keen Senses] is a skill leaning towards more of an animalistic nature, which meant that possibly instinct affected Fenrir¡¯s announcement,¡± Aurus muttered to himself as he looked at Fenrir for a bit before saying, ¡°Let¡¯s head to where the danger is!¡±

    ¡°Yes!¡± Oddly enough, the short twig protruding out of one of Fenrir¡¯s ends started to sway back and forth like a real animal tail. Of course, Aurus did not mind this at all. He activated [Tempest Levitation] while casting [Gale Hover] on Fenrir, allowing them to get closer to the danger Fenrir found within a couple of minutes or so.

    Rustle¡­rustle¡­

    As they hovered above the ground where Fenrir sensed danger, a branch that was superblyrger whenpared to Fenrir and Aurus¡¯ body sizes, appeared behind a bush, slightly startling them in the process.

    ¡°Identify,¡± Aurus inwardlymanded the system as he looked at the branch that just appeared.

    Ding!

    _______

    [Elyon (Branch Grandius Formosus ¡ª High Werei)]

    Existence Level: Inanimate (X)

    Level: 28/40

    HP: 12500/12500

    SP: 4800/4950

    Stats:

    [Toughness]: 437

    [Thickness]: 532

    [Density]: 338

    Skills:

    Uncheckable due to [Species Analysis] skill being low leveled.

    _______

    ¡°Ooh, a Warrior as the first X-grade we¡¯ll get to kill,¡± Aurus could not help but say inwardly.

    ¡°Should I attack, Master?¡± All of a sudden, a voice resounded through his mind, slightly startling him as he maintained a calm aura on the outside. In an instant, he knew it was Fenrir who asked so he replied inwardly with, ¡°Fall back for now. Once you reach S- grade, I¡¯ll allow you to fight against X-grades.¡±

    ¡°But¡­¡± As a reply, Fenrir answered with aining tone. As if it was a real wolf that was loyal to its master, Fenrir did not want Aurus to be harmed at all.

    Fwoosh!

    Just as Fenrir was about to continue coercing Aurus to let it attack, a me that was close to being pure white in color started to envelop Aurus¡¯ body, raising to a height that surpassed 5 meters. It was definitely disproportional to the size of Aurus¡¯ body¡­to say the least.

    Ding!

    ¡®The exchange of SP into power has reached its limit, boosting user¡¯s attack power by 200 percent.¡¯

    ¡®The skill [Limit Transcendence] has been unsealed. It can be activated at any time.¡¯

    With these two lines appearing on the screen that popped up in front of Aurus¡¯ field of vision, Aurus could not help but focus his vision onto Fenrir and let out a cheerful aura. ¡°Don¡¯t worry about a thing. You must get stronger for my sake, okay?¡±

    ¡°Mn¡­¡± In the end, Fenrir could only muster out a small whimper as it flew to a distance that was around 30 meters away from where Aurus and the X-grade being was, allowing Fenrir to take action if need be.

    Still hovering above the ground, Aurus increased his altitude to the point where he was sure that he would not be noticed by the X-grade Inanimate at all. After feeling certain of the height he was currently hovering at, Aurus then scrolled through the seven sword forms given to him by the [Spirit Sword of Seven Hells]. While deciding on which sword to choose, he recalled something written on the details of the skill.

    ¡°Now that I think about it, I haven¡¯tbined sword forms yet. Let¡¯s start doing that,¡± Aurus muttered to himself as a floating Anima was hastily transformed into a thin red sword. A few secondster, another floating Anima was transformed into a thin sword as well, but it was yellow in color.

    ¡°Sword of Greed and Sword of Gluttony¡­¡± Aurus looked at the two swords floating above his body andmanded inwardly not long after, ¡°Fuse!¡±

    Chi! Chi! Chi!

    As if it were two metal des colliding with each other, soft yet harsh sounds of metal scratching on something could be heard for a few seconds, beforeing to a lull as an aura thatbined the auras of the two previous swords appeared on the thin sword that was a mix of red and yellow.

    Ding!

    ¡°Hm?¡± Aurus did not expect that just right after the fusion of the two sword forms was finished, a screen would appear in front of his field of vision. Thankfully, the X-grade Inanimate did not catch Aurus¡¯ presence, still staying on the spot it was previously at.

    ________

    Please choose the sword form that will be used after fusing [Sword of Greed] and [Sword of Gluttony]:

    [Sword of Insatiable Greed]

    [Sword of Evesting Gluttony]

    ________

    Thinking about the effects of each sword form for a bit, he chose [Sword of Insatiable Greed], instantly turning the sword into a bright yellow with hints of red grooves on its edge.

    Without thinking twice, he then sent the sword out towards the X-grade being, sh at an angle perpendicr to the X-grade¡¯s body.

    Swoosh!

    Thanks to Aurus¡¯ boosted movement speed, the swordnded on the X-grade¡¯s body in a sh, removing a huge chunk of HP from the X-grade. Not only that, rather than finding the one who shed at itself, the X-grade being was instead engrossed in some sort of illusion, falling into a daze as it started to rotate in ce not long after.

    Ding!

    ¡®Aurus has dealt 4757 HP damage to [Elyon]!¡¯

    ¡®The debuff [Insatiable Greed] has been inflicted onto [Elyon], making the enemy fall into an illusion for 10 seconds!¡¯

    Not wasting the free time to attack given to him by his previous attack, Aurus hastily formed two more [Swords of Insatiable Greed] before hacking away at the vulnerable X-grade being, which had no clue how it died as it dissipated into small red and green particles not long after. The red and green particles were then absorbed by Aurus as a notification screen appeared in front of his field of vision.

    Ding!

    ¡®Aurus has dealt 4757 HP damage to [Elyon]!¡¯

    ¡®Aurus has dealt 4757 HP damage to [Elyon]!¡¯

    ¡®Experience +2500¡¯

    ¡®1250 EXP has been distributed to [Fenrir].¡¯

    ¡®[Fenrir] has leveled up 15 times.¡¯

    ¡¯18 Life Points have been obtained.¡¯

    ¡¯13 Will Points have been obtained.¡¯

    ¡¯15 Alliance Points have been obtained thanks to killing an X-grade Inanimate.¡¯

    ¡°Ssss¡­¡± Aurus could not help but suck in a huge amount of air through his body as he looked at the words written on the notification screen. ¡°Just the distributed experience from killing an X-grade made Fenrir reach Level 16 in one go?¡±

    Aurus could not help but look at Fenrir, who was on the ground, waiting for Aurus¡¯ good news. He went closer to Fenrir as he had a feeling that Fenrir grew a few sizes.

    ¡°¡­¡± By the time, he got close enough to look at Fenrir clearly, he noticed that Fenrir was beyond twice his size already. Letting out a stifled chuckle, he then said, ¡°Fenrir, it seems that you might be able to fight soon enough.¡±

    After hearing these wordse out of Aurus¡¯ nonexistent mouth, Fenrir¡¯s stick tail started to wag back and forth at a fast speed as it replied, ¡°Really?!¡±

    ¡°Yep,¡± Aurus let out a cheerful aura as he replied. ¡°But you have to stay by my side at all times, okay?¡±

    ¡°Mn!¡± Fenrir let out a loud and cheerful sound as Aurus started to change his point of view on his surroundings.

    ¡°It has been a while since I¡¯ve used this skill,¡± Aurus could not help but think he was dumb for not using the skill in the first ce.

    ¡°Change my view where the aura of X-grade Inanimates can be easily seen.¡±

    Whoosh!

    A few secondster, a myriad of colors entered Aurus¡¯ changed field of vision wherein all of them came from X-grade Inanimates.

    Although it was pretty much a blur since Aurus was far away from these beings, it still made Aurus¡¯ job easier in finding X-grade Inanimates as he just had to follow one color.

    ¡°Hm¡­if my math is correct, I would need to kill over 140 X-grade Inanimates in order to have enough points to buy [Spirit Aura].¡± While Aurus was engrossed in his thoughts, he started to hover off the ground as he went towards the direction of a certain aura, with Fenrir following behind him on ground.

    ¡°You know what, you can never have too much points! I can use the remaining points on Alliance Tech and make me stronger!¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ve decided!¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll kill 500 X-grade Inanimates!¡±

 Chapter 79: Spirit Aura

    Chapter 79: Spirit Aura

    Over 6 hours have passed since Aurus and Fenrir started their massacre. Throughout those 6 hours, they were able to kill around 135 X-grade Inanimates with the help of Aurus¡¯ [Soul Perception] and [Spirit Detection], and Fenrir¡¯s [Keen Senses]. Although it was vastlyckingpared to the number Aurus mentioned 6 hours ago, it still gave them bountiful benefits.

    ¡°[Sword of Intensified Gluttony]!¡±

    Throughout these past 6 hours, Aurus became more and more familiar with the skill [Spirit Sword of Seven Hells]. As of this moment, Aurus had the proficiency level wherein he could think up of the most suited two swordbination in a fight, depending on the buff or the debuff he needed.

    Bang!

    ¡°Fenrir!¡±

    ¡°Yes, Master!¡±

    Whoosh!

    It was also a given that Fenrir would level up along the process of Aurus killing X-grade Inanimates since part of the XP Aurus gains would be distributed to Fenrir in the process. To be honest, Fenrir had already reached its MAX level after the 20th X-grade Inanimate or so was killed, at the moment, all of the experience was going into the unused experience bar that Aurus had.

    Nheless, with Fenrir being maxed, it could now act as a tank and even as an attacker when needed, as there was now a stronger force behind the attack.

    ¡°[Wind Shot]!¡±

    Fwoosh!

    ¡°Master, enemy is distracted!¡±

    ¡°Got it!¡±

    ¡°[Sword of Gluttonous Pride]!¡±

    Bang!

    And just like that, the 136th X-grade Inanimate was killed without difficulty thanks to the cooperation between Aurus and Fenrir.

    Aurus, who was hovering midair all this time,nded on the ground and rolled towards Fenrir. He then said to it, ¡°Good work!¡±

    ¡°Hehe!¡± Fenrir, who felt like it was on cloud nine whenever Aurusplimented it, could not help but wag its stick tail left to right multiple times as a screen appeared on Aurus¡¯ screen not long after.

    Ding!

    ¡®Experience +2500¡¯

    ¡¯17 Life Points have been obtained.¡¯

    ¡¯16 Will Points have been obtained.¡¯

    ¡¯15 Alliance Points have been obtained due to killing an X-grade Inanimate.¡¯

    ¡®The Life and Will bars are nowpletely full, turning the excess Life and Will points into experience for skills rted to Life and Will points.¡¯

    ¡®[Inheritor of Two Ideologies] has leveled up.¡¯

    ¡®[High Vessel of Sentience] has leveled up.¡¯

    ¡®[Supreme Purity Spiritas SP Vessel] has leveled up.¡¯

    ¡®[Supreme Purity Spirit Energy Core] has leveled up.¡¯

    ¡®[Transcendent Vitality Anima Creation] has leveled up twice.¡¯

    ¡®[Spirit Sword of Seven Hells] has leveled up.¡¯

    ¡®[Middle Spirit Spell Core] has leveled up.¡¯

    ¡®[Tempestuous Spiritas Glide] has leveled up.¡¯

    ¡®The following skills have reached the MAX level: [Inheritor of Two Ideologies], [High Vessel of Sentience], [Supreme Purity Spiritas SP Vessel].¡¯

    ¡°Wow, a lot has leveled up just from this one fight,¡± Aurus could not help but mutter as he thought that it could be coincidence as to why all of these skills leveled up at the time he was fighting the 136th X-grade.

    ¡°You know what? I think I¡¯ll just stop at 140 X-grade Inanimates, I might destroy the ecosystem of this ce.¡± As he was thinking about his improvement in strength once he upgraded the skills that could be upgraded, he knew that it would be even easier for him to kill X-grades. Thankfully, he remembered that once a certain thing from an ecosystem was brought to near extinction, the bnce it had would be offset.

    In fact, thanks to Aurus killing over 130 X-grade Inanimates, more and more S-grade Inanimates lost the will to be stronger as there was not much X-grade Inanimates left within the Tempest Cliff. They all thought that S-grade Inanimates were now the strongest levels of power within the Tempest Cliff.

    Well¡­Aurus was not in any position to care about that, he was an Executive level member of the Tempest Branch Alliance first and foremost. He would only be concerned if the X-grade Inanimates of the alliance were also being killed.

    ¡°I think I¡¯m already close to buying that skill?¡± He ced the previous thoughts at the back of his head as the thought of how much Alliance Points he now had surfaced in his mind. ¡°Open Alliance Shop.¡±

    Ding!

    ________

    [Tempest Branch Alliance Shop]

    Alliance Points: 3040

    Stock resets in 6 hours!

    ¡ª¡ª¨C

    [Active Skill ¡ª Stick Clone] ¨C 500 Alliance Points

    [Passive Skill ¡ª Longevity] ¨C 300 Alliance Points

    [Passive Skill ¡ª Spirit Expansion] ¨C 750 Alliance Points

    [Active Skill ¡ª Reaper¡¯s Verdict] ¨C 1700 Alliance Points

    [Active Skill ¡ª Spirit Aura (Rare)] ¨C 3000 Alliance Points

    ________

    ¡°Oh, I actually have enough.¡± Aurus could not help but lightly chuckle after seeing that he had barely enough to buy the skill he wanted. ¡°I guess I don¡¯t need to kill more X-grade Inanimates for now.¡±

    Fenrir, who was beside Aurus all this time, could not help but stare at the screen in front of Aurus and ask, ¡°Master, what¡¯s the floaty thing?¡±

    ¡°Hm?¡± Aurus turned around to look at Fenrir, who was curious about the screen in front of his field of vision. Pondering for a bit, he replied, ¡°It¡¯s something special, stay silent about it, okay?¡±

    Although Fenrir thought that there was more to the screen, Fenrir agreed to what Aurus said.

    ¡°Buy [Spirit Aura].¡± Seeing that the amount of Alliance Points he had was enough, he did not hesitate to buy the skill right now.

    Ding!

    ¡®You are going to buy [Spirit Aura (Rare)] for 3000 Alliance Points, are you sure about this?¡¯

    Being dead set on obtaining the skill, Aurus confirmed the order, receiving another screen not long after that told him that he had learned the [Spirit Aura] skill.

    ¡°Identify [Spirit Aura]!¡± Even though Aurus hadmitted the effects of [Spirit Aura] to heart and knew that the effects won¡¯t be changed, he still could not help but look at it.

    Ding!

    ________

    [Spirit Aura (Rare)] (Level 1/20)

    Grade: S (Mortal)

    Aura, something that cannot be seen by the naked eye, but can be felt by anyone when strong enough. Some auras focus on sheer strength, some focus on being as unnoticeable as possible, while some focus on using their auras to augment their powers.

    This skill allows the user¡¯s aura to act as a domain where the user¡¯s abilities would be significantly heightened inbat for a limited duration. Specifically, the user¡¯s energy-rted, may it be energy attacks, energy storage, and energy restoration, would all be heightened to a certain degree for a limited duration. It can also affect the user¡¯s allies.

    All attacks that use SP will have their final damage boosted by 20%

    SP regeneration will be boosted by 50%

    Maximum SP storage will be expanded by 50%

    Duration: 30 minutes

    Radius: 10 meters

    SP Cost: 1200 SP

    Cooldown: 2 hours

    ________

    ¡°With the current amount of SP I have, I think I can execute [Spirit Clone] once I evolve my SP Storage skill,¡± Aurus muttered to himself in excitement as he looked at the effects of the skill.

    Of course, ever since Aurus was notified by Kevin that his current body would be in grave danger, even if conscious or unconscious, all of his movements were done in order to hasten the time when he could create a spirit clone, a way to mitigate the effects of the danger he would face in the future.

    ¡°Yeah, I won¡¯t dy this any further,¡± Aurus said to himself inwardly as the SP cost of the [Spirit Clone] skill came to mind. ¡°Evolve all of the currently evolvable skills. As for [Supreme Purity Spiritas SP Vessel], evolve it on the path that pursues purity.¡±

    Ding! Ding! Ding!

    Not long aftermanding the system to evolve the skills that just reached MAX level not long ago, a notification screen appeared in front of Aurus¡¯ screen, letting him know the new names of the skills.

    ¡®[Inheritor of Two Ideologies] has been evolved to [Seeker of Two Destinies].¡¯

    ¡®[High Vessel of Sentience] has been evolved to [Grand Vessel of Higher Sentience].¡¯

    ¡®[Supreme Purity Spiritas SP Vessel] has been evolved to [Zenith Purity Spiritas SP Vessel].¡¯

    ¡°Another X-grade Mortal level skill to level up.¡± Aurus could not help but look at the final evolved skill and smile inwardly as he finally had another X-grade Mortal skill to level up, all of which by the looks of it can evolve to Transcendent level.

    Feeling satisfied with how strong he was finally getting, Aurus looked at Fenrir and said, ¡°It¡¯s been a few hours since you¡¯ve maxed your level.¡±

    ¡°Nheless, it¡¯s time to evolve you.¡±

 Chapter 80: Weapon Creation

    Chapter 80: Weapon Creation

    ¡°Spirit Star Steel,¡± Dane looked at the man¡¯s eyes in a serious manner as he replied.

    The man, whose name was Krodel, could not help but look down at the ground and ponder for a bit after hearing Dane¡¯s words. Indeed, Spirit Star Steel was a rare metal, mostly used as a material in creating an alloy that would allow the equipment to have improved mana conductivity. As a standalone metal though, pure Spirit Star Steel would not only improve the person¡¯s mana conductivity by a great degree, it would allow the user to regain their used mana from the surroundings through the created equipment.

    After a few minutes, Krodel could only sigh and look at Dane with a smile before saying, ¡°Ever since we¡¯ve met, you¡¯ve always surprised me. This time, you still surprised me, wanting such an extremely rare metal right off the bat.¡±

    Dane lightly chuckled at Krodel¡¯s response, yet he still maintained a calm andposed expression. ¡°I may surprise you, but you know me right? Everything I say is not without a reason.¡±

    ¡°Of course, we¡¯ve known each other for over 3 decades already,¡± Krodel shed a grin as he replied. ¡°It wouldn¡¯t be an understatement to tell everyone that I know where you keep your special stuff!¡±

    ¡°Bah! You and your lecherous thoughts!¡± Dane could not help butugh seeing that the topic was changed in an instant. Although that was the case, Krodel knew what was more important so he let out a light cough before saying, ¡°Spirit Star Steel, I¡¯m sure we have a few kilograms of that in stock. Anyways, what are you going to do with it?¡±

    Being caught off guard by Krodel¡¯s question, Dane could not only gaze at the sky for a bit before replying with a light smile on his face, ¡°I¡¯ll just say that it has something to do with the future of the Seraph Kingdom.¡±

    ¡°If you put it that way, then I pretty much know what you¡¯re going to do with it.¡± Krodel smiled after hearing Dane¡¯s reply and stood up from the bench as he walked towards a certain direction, Dane following behind him.

    Since both of them were Rank 4 ss Holders, their Agility was nothing to scoff at, only taking a few minutes of time to traverse about 20 kilometers, stopping in front of arge vault of sorts.

    ¡°Ah, so it¡¯s inside your shop¡¯s special treasury?¡± Dane could not help but ask. Because they were friends for over 3 decades, Dane knew that the truly precious items the shop sold were kept inside a treasury that was somewhat far away from the shop. This was done so in order for others to not have avaricious thoughts when entering the shop. Then again, who would dare to steal in front of a Rank 4 ss Holder?

    The door to the treasury was opened, which was closed in an instant after Dane and Krodel went inside. It took a few minutes of strolling through aisles and containers before Krodel revealed a pure and shiny chunk of metal that radiated a faint glow under the illumination of a small and soft white light hanging from the ceiling.

    ¡°Here it is.¡± Krodel¡¯s eyes could not help but gleam as he looked at the chunk of metal on his hand. ¡°This is the biggest chunk of Spirit Star Steel we have, weighing at around 10 kilograms. Normally, it would be 1000 gold coins per half kilogram, but since we¡¯ve known each other for far too long and I know that you¡¯re going to use it for something good, let¡¯s just say you can get this 10 kilogram piece for 8000 gold.¡±

    ¡°How kind of you.¡± Dane could not help butugh after hearing the price. ¡°Knowing you, I¡¯m sure that your heart is aching after realizing that you¡¯ll probably lose a lot of money from this deal.¡±

    Snap!

    Dane snapped his fingers as a rift in the air was formed. Not long after, gold coins started to flow out of the rift, forming a small pile in front of Krodel¡¯s feet. It took a few minutes for the gold coins to stop flowing, a pile reaching a height nearing Krodel¡¯s kneecaps being formed.

    ¡°15 thousand gold coins, I¡¯ll buy each kilogram from you for 1500 gold coins,¡± Dane stated. ¡°Even if we¡¯re good friends, I know when to split business from personal stuff. Also, don¡¯t you think this discount for me is enough?¡± Dane lightly smiled afterwards.

    Krodel could not help but frown after seeing the smile on Dane¡¯s face. Every time he saw that smile, he had a feeling that there was something he had to exchange in order to close the deal. Yet even though he knew that was the case¡­

    He still epted.

    ¡°Fine, let¡¯s close the deal,¡± Krodel answered as he gave the chunk of Spirit Star Steel to Dane. Dane happily epted the chunk of metal and opened up a rift, cing the chunk inside it before closing it up once more.

    ¡°Hehe, pleased to make this trade with you.¡± The smile on Dane¡¯s face became more pronounced after receiving the chunk. He turned his body around, walking towards the treasury¡¯s door to exit, only for it to stop and look back at Krodel and say, ¡°When we meet again, you better have a Mind Reforming Herb with you!¡±

    Bang!

    Afterwards, Dane was no longer seen inside the treasury, only Krodel was left.

    Krodel could not help but shake his head and sigh as a light smile was nted on his face. He looked at the pile of gold coins near his feet and muttered to himself, ¡°I should buy something better than a Mind Reforming Herb, knowing him fully well.¡±

    ¡°I wonder why he wants that? I¡¯m not in a position to care about that anyway.¡±

    ¡°Let¡¯s just grab a Great Mind Condensation Leaf when the timees.¡±

    ¡­

    With the Spirit Star Steel on hand, Dane now headed towards the next ce in his mind, a ce where the weapon the Ninth Prince could be actualized.

    A smithy.

    Knowing Dane though, he was not going to a normal smithy that only crafted Magic grade weapons at most. He was instead going to the most renowned smithy inside Seraph Kingdom.

    Cling! Cling!

    The bells affixed to the smithy¡¯s door rang out, alerting the cksmith in charge of the smithy of the customer¡¯s presence.

    ¡°Yes, how may I hel¡ª¡± At the instant the bells rang out, the cksmith revealed herself to the customer with beads of sweat covering her well-toned body. Indeed, the cksmith was a woman.

    The cksmith gazed at the customer for a while before letting out a happy scream as she ran towards the customer to hug him. ¡°Kyaaaah! It¡¯s Dane!¡±

    ¡°Haha.¡± Dane could only let out a softugh as he was being hugged tightly by the cksmith. ¡°How¡¯s it been Kelsey? No wait, please let go first, it¡¯s bing hard to breathe.¡±

    ¡°So far, the smithy is still the most renowned out there,¡± Kelsey replied to Dane¡¯s question as she let go of Dane, letting Dane breathe in some fresh air. Of course, she knew that Dane was here for some reason, hence she got straight to the point. ¡°So¡­what brings you here to the smithy?¡±

    Dane took in a few more breaths of air before responding to Kelsey¡¯s question. ¡°I need you to help me craft a weapon. Knowing you well, I¡¯m sure you can craft a Grand grade weapon.¡±

    Within the Seraph Kingdom, Normal grade equipment were the weakest and mostmon, followed by Magic grade equipment, then Grand grade equipment. Although Magic and Normal grade equipments were only apart by one grade, Magic grade equipment were already 10 to 100 times fewer in quantity, with Grand grade equipment being even fewer than Magic grade equipment. One could only hope to see the prowess of Grand grade equipment with their own two eyes.

    ¡°Oh?¡± Kelsey¡¯s eyebrow raised as she heard Dane¡¯s reply. ¡°How can you be so sure that I can guarantee that I¡¯ll craft a Grand grade weapon?¡±

    Dane let out a small chuckle as he pointed towards the air surrounding Kelsey. ¡°You know me Kelsey, I have the [Greater Appraisal] spell so I can know every person¡¯s power. But I don¡¯t even need to activate that to see that your aura has be more condensed. Let me guess, have you broken through [Intermediate Swordsmithing] or [Intermediate Armor Crafting]?¡±

    ¡°The former,¡± Kelsey smiled as she did not restrict her aura anymore. ¡°By luck, I was evolve [Intermediate Swordsmithing] to [Expert Swordsmithing], giving me more assurance of crafting a Grand grade weapon.¡± Surprisingly, she went closer to Dane and whispered in his ear, ¡°Not only that, I even have a small chance of crafting a Supreme grade weapon.¡±

    When Dane heard Kelsey¡¯s final statement, he felt like thunder coursed through his mind at the level of disbelief he felt. He could only conceal this feeling before grabbing the cloth covered piece of wood inside his robe and showed it to Kelsey as he slowly unfurled the cloth covering it.

    ¡°I need you to craft a sword for me,¡± Dane replied as the piece of wood was fully revealed to Kelsey. ¡°This piece of wood will be used as the hilt, I assume you know this, right?¡±

    ¡°Gale Dragon Wood, a good piece of wood for crafting weapons for sses inclined to the Wind element. How could I not know this?¡± Kelsey let out a smile as she said the wood¡¯s name in one go. ¡°As for the de, what am I going to use? Mithril? Mana conducting alloy? Or do you have something even better than that?¡±

    Fwoosh!

    As if it was rehearsed, a rift opened up after Kelsey was finished asking, a chunk of pure silver metalnding on Dane¡¯s arm that was extended at the instant the rift opened. Shock took over Kelsey¡¯s face as she pointed towards the chunk of metal. ¡°I-I-Is that¡­what I think it is?¡±

    ¡°I-Is that¡­Spirit Star Steel?¡±

    Dane could only nod to Kelsey¡¯s words before saying, ¡°Let¡¯s stop wasting time. We need to make a Magic-infused de. You¡¯re in charge of the weapon, I¡¯ll be in charge of the spell.¡±

    ¡°I trust you that you can do just that, right?¡±

 Chapter 81: The Grind

    Chapter 81: The Grind

    ¡°It¡¯s time to evolve you, Fenrir,¡± Aurus could not help but say after knowing that Fenrir has been in the peak of B-grade for far too long already.

    ¡°Are you ready?¡±

    ¡°As long as it give me better power to protect Master, Fenrir always ready!¡± Fenrir happily replied to Aurus¡¯ question, wagging its tail back and forth with excitement. It could not help but wonder as to what its next form would be like.

    ¡°Alright then.¡± Aurus released a cheerful aura as he gazed at Fenrir. Heposed himself for a bit beforemanding the system through his mind, ¡°Evolve Fenrir.¡±

    Ding!

    Not long aftermanding the system to evolve Fenrir, a white light started to radiate from Fenrir¡¯s body as it became a haze that spanned a few meters in radius not long after. A minute passed with Fenrir¡¯s form being a white haze, only for it to change a few seconds after said minute.

    This white haze started to madly pull in Wind energy particles from the surroundings, gradually giving the white haze a green tint to it. With each every particle absorbed by the haze, the green color of the haze became more and more intensified and pronounced, stopping at a point where it would be hard for anyone to differentiate the color of the haze from the grass covering the ground.

    With the haze absorbing enough Wind energy particles, the haze started to coalesce into a structure that was even more of a wolf rather than a stick affixed with protrusions and smaller sticks. Although it was still green haze, the body was now attached to four stub-like limbs that allowed the body to hang a few decimeters off the ground. As for the tail, it now looked like it wasposed by multiple small sticks rather than a single small one, giving it the feeling of fur when looked from afar.

    As for the head, the other end of the body that was opposite to the tail gradually erged to a size bigger than the diameter of the trunk as some rough features of a wolf¡¯s head started to appear on it.

    This process took a few more minutes, which was not too long for Aurus, who pretty much did not care about the passing of time anymore. As Fenrir¡¯s body structure became more and more solidified, Aurus was able to make out the color of Fenrir¡¯s new body, which was pretty much an extremely dark brown. As for its aura, it was for sure green since Fenrir was inclined towards the Wind element.

    Whoosh!

    A few secondster after seeing the basic features of Fenrir¡¯s evolved form, the green haze covering Fenrir¡¯s body disappeared in an instant, revealing a wolf made out of sticks and branches, yet exuded a majestic aura fit for a small king.

    ¡°I have evolved, Master!¡± After evolving to the A-grade, the first thing Fenrir did was to call out to Aurus, which Aurus responded by nodding inwardly and saying, ¡°I can see that.¡±

    With Fenrir being finished with his evolution, a screen that detailed Fenrir¡¯s evolution appeared in front of Aurus¡¯ field of vision not long after, giving him the knowledge of Fenrir¡¯s new species name.

    ¡®Fenrir has evolved from [Wind Wolf Branch (Rare+)] to [Gale Wolf Formosus (Rare+)].¡¯

    ¡°It sounds more imposing, that¡¯s for sure.¡± This was the first thought that came to Aurus¡¯ mind after reading Fenrir¡¯s new species name. Other than the fact that Branch Formosus was shortened to Formosus, it was pretty much a staple advancement in naming sense.

    ¡°I wonder how much Fenrir¡¯s stats have improved.¡± Of course, with evolutionse improvements in skills, especially Ally Skills. Commanding Fenrir to stay guard and maintain vignce for no apparent reason, Aurus decided to check Fenrir¡¯s new stats, including the newly evolved Ally Skill.

    Ding!

    ________

    [Fenrir] (Level 1/50)

    Potential Grade: S

    Experience: 0/25 (can be filled with unused experience points)

    Species: Gale Wolf Formosus (Rare+)

    Existence Level: Inanimate

    Grade: A

    [HP]: 200/200

    [SP]: 55/55

    Stats:

    [Toughness]: 75

    [Thickness]: 75

    [Density]: 100

    Skills:

    [Gale Wolf¡¯s Sprint Lv. 5], [Grand Wolf Morale Lv.2], [Careful Intuition Lv.12], [Gale Wolf SP Vessel Lv. 13], [High Wind Affinity Lv. 4], [Tempest Shot Lv. MAX], [Gale Wolf Seed Lv.1]

    Ally Skill: [Blessing of the Gale Wolf]

    ________

    ________

    [Blessing of the Gale Wolf]

    Grade: A (Mortal)

    A Gale Wolf, a stronger form of the Wind Wolf, even better in terms of speed and Wind-rted skills. Gale Wolves have strong affinity and control over Wind energy particles, allowing them to move and attack like it was second nature.

    > Perception range +30%

    > Movement speed +120%

    > Attack and Vitality stat +30%

    ________

    ¡°¡­¡± Aurus was at a loss for words after seeing the improvement in stats and skills that Fenrir gained after evolving from B-grade to A-grade. Yet what truly left him dumbfounded was the fact that the Ally Skill Fenrir sported was improved by a great degree, especially in movement speed!

    ¡°70% more boost in movement speed¡­this¡­this is a lot!¡± Aurus could not help but shout inwardly from disbelief. He could not help but look at Fenrir as if it was a demon in disguise. Fenrir subconsciously felt Aurus¡¯ gaze and looked at him with its head tilted. ¡°What¡¯s wrong, Master?¡±

    ¡°Ah.¡± Aurus could only think up of a reply after seeing Fenrir¡¯s gaze. ¡°It¡¯s nothing, I was just wondering if I should evolve now.¡±

    Although Aurus¡¯ reply was made on a whim, thest part of the statement he blurted out was filled with his own hidden thoughts. He had been suppressing his evolution for far too long already. Although he could suppress his strength even more in order to gain a stronger species for his S-grade evolution, he knew that suppressing strength would eventually hit a wall in terms of improvement.

    Ever since he evolved to A-grade, he had obtained a lot of skills and stat boosts, most of which were left unused. Nheless, he was still able to make a name for himself, obtaining the ability to easily kill X-grades as an A-grade.

    But he knew that he could not stay in A-grade for far too long, as he had to grow stronger in order to have a greater chance of avoiding the prophecy that Kevin told him, a fate where his current body would be put in great danger.

    The only way to avoid this ording to Kevin was to activate the [Spirit Clone] skill, which would consume 10,000 SP. Oh wait, it would only consume 2,500 SP now thanks to his Spirit Energy Core and SP Storage being evolved in purity.

    ¡°Open status screen.¡± Remembering this way out, Aurus could not help but pull his status screen up, revealing his progress in terms of stats and whatnot.

    Ding!

    ________

    [Aurus] (Level 10/10)

    Experience: MAX

    Species: Wind Walnut Spiritas (Rare)

    Existence Level: Inanimate

    Grade: A

    [HP]: 616/616

    [SP]: 1700/1700

    [Life]: 125/125

    [Will]: 125/125

    Stats:

    [Tenacity]: 63

    [Vitality]: 112

    [Spirit]: 126

    Synchronization Rate: 40%

    Unused Experience Points: 214855

    Unused Genesis Points: 32

    ________

    ¡°I only have 800 SP left to gain in order to activate [Spirit Clone],¡± Aurus muttered to himself as he looked at his maximum SP amount. He could not help but be satisfied with his current HP amount, which was pretty much at the level of a normal max leveled S-grade Executive level member.

    When his eyes wandered onto the unused experience and Genesis point bar, he could not help but be dumbfounded at the amount he had. ¡°Over 200,000 unused experience points and 32 Genesis Points? Where did the extra 9 Genesis Pointse from?¡±

    He knew where the 200,000 experience points came from, which came from the 136 X-grades he killed in order to obtain [Spirit Aura]. As for the 9 extra Genesis Points, he truly had no clue as to where it originated hence he looked at his notification log, only to find out that it came from the 136 X-grades as well, each Genesis Point being a matter of luck to obtain.

    Seeing that he still had a lot of unused experience points, Aurus decided to level Fenrir up to Level 25/50, which would allow Fenrir to be a more decent tank to Aurus, who was pretty much part ranger, part mage.

    ¡°Distribute my unused experience points to Fenrir to level it up halfway to max,¡± Aurusmanded the system not long after making that decision, a glow covering Fenrir¡¯s body a few secondster as Fenrir grew a few centimeters or so in size.

    Ding!

    ¡®7500 Experience Points have been distributed to Fenrir.¡¯

    ¡®Fenrir has reached Level 25!¡¯

    Although only 7500 experience points were used to level Fenrir from Level 1 to Level 25, he knew that it was enough for now since he still had no idea on how much experience he would need to level from Level 1 to Level 20 at S-grade.

    Of course, other than the [Spirit Clone] skill, he knew that there was another way to escape the danger his current body would befall, which would be evolving to a higher grade and perhaps even reach the Animate existence level.

    With the thoughts of evolution filling his head, he was now adamant on evolving to S-grade. But he still had some uncertainties in his mind, hence he decided to level up some of the skills he had rarely used, opening up his skill screen in order to find out which skills he had not used yet.

    Ding!

    Looking at the screen for a bit, Aurus could not help but hem as he noticed that a skill he had obtained from the inheritance which was important for his survival¡­was not leveled or evolved at all.

    With a solemn aura surrounding his body, Aurus gazed at Fenrir and said, ¡°Fenrir¡­¡±

    ¡°Hit me.¡±

    ¡°Eh?¡± Of course, since Fenrir was caught off guard, this was the only reply it could make. ¡°Why Master? I serve to protect you, not harm you.¡±

    ¡°If I told you that it would allow me to be stronger, would you still not do it?¡± Aurus could not help but push the matter further as he went closer to Fenrir.

    ¡°Come on, go and hit me!¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t hold back!¡±

 Chapter 82: The Grind (2)

    Chapter 82: The Grind (2)

    ¡°[Stick Regeneration]!¡±

    Whoosh!

    ¡°Fenrir, hit me one more time!¡±

    ¡°Haah¡­got it, Master!¡±

    Over ten minutes have passed since Aurus decided to level up his skills in preparation for his evolution to S-grade. The first skill that he decided to level up was [Stick Regeneration], remembering that it was an extremely important skill to his survival. It took him a few minutes of coercing Fenrir for Fenrir to give up and follow Aurus¡¯ whims of letting it hit him in order to level [Stick Regeneration] up.

    Bang!

    With one swipe of Fenrir¡¯s stubs, Aurus was sent flying for a few meters towards a nearby tree. Of course, Aurus would take Fenrir¡¯s attack head-on since it would damage him, but for some reason, he did not want to take coteral damage from his surroundings.

    ¡°[Spirit Barrier].¡±

    Whoosh!

    As only a few centimeters remained between him and the tree in front of him, a faint gray barrier covered Aurus¡¯ body, easily making an imprint of Aurus¡¯ body on the tree while him receiving no damage at all from the impact.

    [Spirit Barrier] was a spell he obtained from the [Middle Spirit Spell Core] after it reached Level 10, thanks to him killing over 130 X-grades.

    After a while, Aurus was able to budge himself out of the tree andnd on the ground as a notification screen appeared in front of his field of vision.

    Ding!

    ¡®Aurus has received 135 HP damage from [Fenrir].¡¯

    ¡°Fenrir, could you attack lighter next time?¡± Aurus could not help but say as he activated [Stick Regeneration] a few times, bringing his HP back to max.

    Ding!

    Unsurprisingly, another notification screen appeared in front of Aurus¡¯ field of vision. Aurus nced at the information on the screen for a bit, only to release a cheerful aura afterwards.

    ¡®[Stick Regeneration] has leveled up.¡¯

    ¡®[Stick Regeneration] has reached the MAX level.¡¯

    ¡®[Stick Regeneration] has met the necessary requirements and is ready to evolve.¡¯

    Just as Fenrir was about to reply to Aurus¡¯ plea, Aurus interrupted Fenrir before it could speak out, shouting out, ¡°Finally! I can evolve my skill!¡±

    Aurus nced at Fenrir and pondered for a bit before saying, ¡°You know what¡­never mind. Rather than making your attacks lighter, attack me with your strongest power!¡±

    At this moment, Fenrir did not know whether it was going to follow the former or thetter due to confusion, but it was able to understand Aurus¡¯ wishes, releasing an affirmative aura as a reply, letting Aurus know that it understood.

    Aurus nodded inwardly to Fenrir¡¯s non-verbal reply as hemanded inwardly, ¡°Evolve [Stick Regeneration].¡±

    Ding!

    In an instant, a screen appeared in front of Aurus¡¯ field of vision, giving Aurus two possible skill evolution choices to [Stick Regeneration].

    ________

    Please choose the skill that you want [Stick Regeneration] to evolve to:

    [Branching Healing Aura]

    [Branch Benevolence]

    ________

    ¡°Identify the two skills.¡± Of course, since Aurus had no idea as to which one suited him better, he decided to check their details and decide from there.

    Ding!

    ________

    [Branching Healing Aura]

    Grade: B (Mortal)

    You are the conductor of nature and life, bringing vitality back to withered beings and souls. Because of that, you have the ability to radiate this vitality towards a certain extent, rejuvenating multiple beings at once, including yourself, within this radiated vitality.

    >Radius of aura: 5 meters

    >HP healed per second: 25 + (Attack stat * 0.1)

    Duration: 1 minute

    SP Cost: 50 SP

    Cooldown: 5 minutes

    ________

    ________

    [Branch Benevolence]

    Grade: B (Mortal)

    You are the conductor of life and nature, allowing others to regain their lost vitality with your touch. Thanks to the blessings of nature, you are able to rejuvenate beings or yourself in a faster time than before, allowing life to propagate for longer.

    >HP healed: 50 + (Attack stat * 0.15)

    SP Cost: 200 SP

    Cooldown: 30 seconds

    ________

    Just by the amount the skill healed at once made Aurus certain of his choices. Although the other skill would allow him to heal more HP over a certain amount of time, life and death hanged on an instant rather than a long amount of time.

    Ding!

    ¡®Are you sure? Do you want to evolve [Stick Regeneration] to [Branch Benevolence]?¡¯

    ¡°Yes.¡± Aurus did not have an ounce of hesitation in this choice.

    Ding!

    ¡®[Stick Regeneration] has been evolved to [Branch Benevolence].¡¯

    Seeing that the evolution was finally finished, Aurus could not help but radiate a cheerful aura as he looked at Fenrir. ¡°Fenrir, don¡¯t you think it¡¯s time to go back?¡±

    As he asked this, he looked at the sky, whose hue was already in the middle of orange and ck, telling Aurus that night was almost close.

    Fenrir released an affirmative aura as it replied, ¡°I think so as well, Master. Although, I might have a feeling that you still yearn to grow stronger even after going back?¡±

    ¡°Haha.¡± At that instant, the aura Aurus radiated grew more cheerful. ¡°That¡¯s correct. Let¡¯s go then.¡±

    With a single thought, Fenrir disappeared from Aurus¡¯ point of view, its voice still heard inside Aurus¡¯ mind as a way to keep himpany. After that, he activated [Tempest Levitation] and [Gale Hover] as a way to boost his movement skill, before heading back to the Tempest Branch Alliance¡¯s base of operations in a short amount of time with his greatly improved movement speed.

    ¡­

    Although it was gradually turning to night, some beings preferred to traverse in the night rather than day. One of these beings was Chonk.

    Currently, he was sprinting through the ins and forests of Tempest Cliff with ease as he had a certain ce in mind, which had something to do with the improvement of his Tempering skill.

    ¡°After navigating the Tempest Cliff multiple times, I¡¯m extremely sure that the core of this ce is in there,¡± Chonk could not help but say to himself as he continued to sprint.

    Once an Inanimate bes an Animate being, hunger, thirst, stamina, and other things that aremon to Animates nowe alive on said newly evolved Animate. At first, they would be unfamiliar to this, easily neglecting their body¡¯s needs and dying. But for some, they knew that these things, when fulfilled to their body¡¯s limit, would allow them to operate at a power greater than 100 percent. Not only that, these limits could even be heightened with the help of Tempering skills and normal training.

    Thanks to this, the limits to Chonk¡¯s hunger, thirst, and so on, have been pushed to the high limits of what a normal Animate can reach due to his strong Tempering skill. Also, his other stats, may it be Strength, Agility, Defense, are also high due to his strong Tempering skill.

    Since the Tempest Cliff as a whole was somewhat small, only spanning around 15 kilometers on its longest side, Chonk was able to reach the ce he had in mind within an hour or so. This ce was located near the far right end of the Tempest Cliff.

    Chonk stopped in his tracks as he noticed that he was standing near the end of a high cliff, where on the other side of the cliffid pointy rocks that could impale him without mercy. Nheless, Chonk did not feel fear from these rocks, but instead felt a sense of relief and excitement from seeing them.

    ¡°From what I¡¯ve gathered through my spies, this is the right ce.¡±

    He gradually went down the cliff, going through multiple detours in order to make sure he was not injured at all along the way. As he was getting closer and closer to the pointy rocks, he noticed that the Wind energy particles in his surroundings gradually became more and more condensed and intensified, letting him know that this was a ce filled to the brim with Wind energy.

    Only one ce came to his mind within the Tempest Cliff when it came to dense Wind energy. ¡®This ce truly is the core of the Tempest Cliff,¡¯ he thought.

    A few minutester, he was now on level with the pointy rocks¡­well, on the ground where the pointy rocks resided. These pointy rocks were over 10 meters tall. To a normal Animate, this was akin to a height of a normal three-story building.

    He then tried to find the core of the Tempest Cliff, which was said to hold the most dense Wind energy in the area. Surprisingly, Chonk closed his eyes and relied on his innate sense of Wind energy, moving in the direction where the Wind energy gradually became more and more dense.

    At times, he would get close to the pointy rocks and bump into them. At other times, he would jump on the pointy rocks and barelynd safely on their tips as he continued to jump with his eyes closed.

    In the end, he was able to find the most dense location, opening his eyes afterward to view an extremelyrge mass of Wind energy spiraling. It was arge tornado of Wind energy. If one were daring enough to enter it, they would definitely be crushed into pieces.

    Of course, Chonk was not that stupid, making sure to keep his distance in order to not be pulled by therge mass of energy. Nheless, he was extremely excited as his tail wagged left to right at fast speeds.

    ¡°I finally found it, the core.¡±

    ¡°I can finally cultivate my Tempering skill to the peak and ascend to a Rank 1 ss!¡±

 Chapter 83: Flux (1)

    Chapter 83: Flux (1)

    With Aurus¡¯ movement speed being boosted by [Tempest Levitation] and [Gale Hover], plus adding in the fact that Aurus and Fenrir hunted X-grade Inanimates around the proximity of the alliance¡¯s base, meant that it only took Aurus around ten minutes or so to get back to the base, entering into the small ecosystem without hesitation.

    He did not bother to stay within therge hall and alert everyone of his appearance due to him being an Executive level member. Since he was an Executive level member, someone who had a bit of authority within the alliance, he did not really have to notify anyone, save for the Pir level members and Herellia.

    But when he was travelling to the small ecosystem though, he shouted out Horell¡¯s name, which made Horell teleport beside him.

    ¡°You definitelye at the instant you¡¯re called.¡± Aurus could not help butugh at the way Horell appeared all of a sudden.

    ¡°Is there any problem with that?¡± Horell could not help butugh as well, exining how he was basically the right-hand man of Herellia in terms of governance afterwards. ¡°So¡­what can I do for you?¡±

    ¡°Can you notify the other Pirs and Herellia of my appearance? That¡¯s a rule in our alliance, right?¡±

    ¡°Indeed, it is a rule. Not to worry, I¡¯ll make sure they¡¯re notified. Anything else?¡±

    ¡°Can you also tell them that I cannot be disturb for over 2 weeks? Is that possible?¡±

    Hearing that Aurus could not be disturbed for 2 weeks, it startled Horell quite a bit. ¡°Well, it¡¯s definitely allowed for an Executive level member like you but¡­¡±

    ¡°Why?¡±

    At this time, Aurus could not help but release a cheerful aura as he removed the restraints on his power, concurrently activating the [Spirit Aura] as well. In an instant, Horell was immersed in an aura that was akin to the feeling of being in the center of a tempestuous storm. Not only that, he also felt the density of energy particles in the surroundings rise within the proximity of Aurus¡¯ aura, specifically Wind energy particles.

    Sensing this aura, Horell instantly formed a conclusion in his mind, asking, ¡°Is the reason for this seclusion perhaps¡­¡±

    Sensing that Horell was on the same train of thought, Aurus radiated an affirmative aura as he replied, ¡°Indeed. I have reached the limit of A-grade and I feel like my strength cannot grow any further. I shall take this 2 weeks of time to evolve into an S-grade Inanimate.¡±

    Hearing that his hunch was correct, Horell could not help but release a cheerful aura, replying, ¡°That¡¯s wonderful news! Alright, I¡¯ll tell the others that you cannot be disturbed for the next 2 weeks.¡±

    Horell then decided to gradually dissipate into thin air, returning back to whence he came. Just as that was about happen, he became corporeal once more, asking Aurus, ¡°I almost forgot. If it¡¯s incredibly urgent, where can I find you?¡±

    ¡°The Sparring Tower. Thanks, Horell,¡± Aurus crisply and straightforwardly replied before radiating a cheerful aura as he sped up towards the small ecosystem, heading for the Sparring Tower in the shortest time possible.

    ¡­

    A few minutester, he arrived at the Sparring Tower, hastily heading towards one of the rooms before closing it. Aurus took a few deep breaths through his body as his excited emotions gradually calmed down. After a while, the emotions he felt calmed to a still, allowing Aurus¡¯ rationality and logicality to kick in.

    ¡°Fenrir,e out.¡±

    Ding!

    With the apaniment of a notification sound from the system, arge yet roughly detailed wooden wolf appeared in front of Aurus, kneeling on its four stubs before yelling out through Aurus¡¯ mind, ¡°Master!¡±

    ¡°Mm,¡± Aurus replied with a soft sound as he was upied in his thoughts. After a while, Aurus looked at Fenrir before saying, ¡°Hit me with your full power.¡±

    ¡°Eh?¡± At the instant Fenrir was summoned, the first thing Aurus wanted it to do was¡­hit him? Thankfully, Fenrir was able to easily recover from the confusion, instantly knowing what purpose it served. ¡°Is this the same as before, Master?¡±

    ¡°Yep.¡± Since Aurus was inside a secluded room, he did not need to restrain or hide anything at all, even using Fenrir without second thoughts. He also knew that he could grind his skills faster if Fenrir was around. ¡°Open skill screen.¡±

    Ding!

    Surprisingly, Aurus decided to open the skill screen once more. It seemed that Aurus forgot which skills he was going to grind up.

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡± Aurus could not help but hem and haw at the list of skills he had, knowing for a fact that he had a lot of skills that were unleveled.

    ______

    Active ss Skills:

    [Middle Spirit Spell Core (Wind Variant) Lv. 10], [Spirit Power Transcendence Lv. 5], [Grand Vitality and Spirit Transformation Lv. 3]

    Passive ss Skills:

    [Supreme Purity Spirit Energy Core (Wind Variant) Lv. 12], [Spiritas Seed Lv. 10]

    Active Species Skills:

    [Tempestuous Spiritas Glide (Special) Lv.17], [Spirit Sword of Seven Hells (Rare) Lv. 7], [Century Polymorph Lv. 1], [Wrath of the Spiritas Lv. 1], [Unyielding Spiritas Lv. 2], [Branch Benevolence Lv. 1], [Spirit Clone Lv.1], [Spirit Aura (Rare) Lv. 1], [Alliance Call], [Judgement]

    Passive Species Skills:

    [Soul Perception II Lv.4], [High Wind Affinity Lv.1], [Zenith Purity Spiritas SP Vessel Lv. 1], [Transcendent Vitality Anima Creation Lv. 7], [Seeker of Two Destinies Lv. 1], [Grand Vessel of Higher Sentience Lv. 1], [Greater Illusion Resistance Lv. 1], [Blessing of the Tempest Lv. 1], [Power of the Alliance (Executive A-grade Variant) Lv. 5], [Blessing of the Reincarnation Goddess Lv.MAX]

    Active Life and Will Skills:

    [Blooming Vitality Lv. 1], [Indomitable Will Lv. 1], [Sentience Lv. 1]

    ______

    Some of these skills were leveled due to the fact that Aurus used them for the most part while he was killing X-grade Inanimates for the [Spirit Aura] skill.

    ¡°Hmm¡­alright.¡± It took Aurus over a minute to decide on which skills he was going to level. He decided that he would level all of the C-grade Mortal skills first before moving onto B-grade skills, then onto skills that he wanted to be maxed out.

    ¡°Looking at the skill screen, there are six skills that haven¡¯t been evolved to B-grade yet.¡±

    ¡°[Wrath of the Spiritas], [Unyielding Spiritas], [Blessing of the Tempest], and the three remaining Life and Will skills.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll grind the Life and Will skills first, then the Spiritas rted skills, then the [Blessing of the Tempest].¡± This n was formted in an instant after seeing the six unevolved skills.

    ¡°Oh, I¡¯ll also level up [Branch Benevolence] while I¡¯m leveling the others as well.¡±

    ¡°Fenrir!¡±

    ¡°Yes, Master!¡± Hearing its name being called, Fenrir hastily replied, eager to wait for its master¡¯s orders.

    ¡°Alright, I¡¯m ready. Hit me as hard as you can!¡±

    ¡°Alright then! I won¡¯t hold back, Master!¡±

    Whoosh!

    ¡°[Blooming Vitality]!¡±

    Ding!

    Bang!

    ¡°[Branch Benevolence]! Man, that¡¯s a lot of damage!¡±

    ¡­

    And so, a few minutes have passed since the start of the grind. Thanks to the low experience requirements of the skills, and the fact that Aurus had a lot of Life and Will points, Aurus was able to easily max out the three Life and Will skills, not hesitating to evolve them not long after.

    Ding! Ding! Ding!

    ¡®[Blooming Vitality] has been evolved to [Blooming Vitality+].¡¯

    ¡®[Indomitable Will] has been evolved to [Indomitable Will+].¡¯

    ¡®[Sentience] has been evolved to [Sentience+].¡¯

    Looking at the new names of the three Life and Will skills, Aurus could not help but feel a little nostalgic. ¡°Ah, it¡¯s been a while since I¡¯ve seen a plus sign on a skill.¡±

    He then ced this thought at the back of his head as he looked at the three remaining skills on his skill screen that were of C-grade. ¡°Two of these skills have long cooldowns while one is a passive skill. I guess I¡¯ll just use the two whenever they¡¯re off cooldown as I train this passive skill.¡±

    Bang!

    As he was still formting his next step, Fenrir hit Aurus with the full strength of one of its stubs, making Aurus collide with one of the sturdy stone walls of the secluded room.

    Instead of getting angry at being interrupted in his thoughts, Aurus knew that he could not afford time to get angry as he only gave himself 2 weeks of seclusion. Then again, why would an Inanimate ask for 2 weeks of seclusion if they did not even have to do anything important for multiple days?

    Nheless, Aurus was going to stick to his limited timeframe. He casted [Branch Benevolence] onto himself, whichted him a level up of the skill from Level 3 to Level 4 due to the amount of heals he has used these past few minutes. Afterwards, he told Fenrir that whenever he wanted to raise his healing skill up, he would shout the word ¡®Hit¡¯ out. Being a loyal pet, Fenrir followed Aurus¡¯mands and lied down on the floor, waiting for Aurus¡¯ next shout of the word ¡®Hit¡¯.

    As for Aurus, he stood on the center of the secluded room, closing his sense of vision as he tried to sense the Wind energy particles surrounding him with his body. After a few minutes, he was able to sense little tiny specks of green light floating around his body. He then urged these specks of green light to coalesce and gradually form a tornado as he willed more and more specks of green light to enter the tornado.

    What was Aurus doing? Just like how Herellia manipted the Wind energy particles around her to make a Wind me, Aurus was manipting the Wind energy particles around him to create a tornado, the easiest thing to form that was rted to the word ¡®Tempest¡¯. That¡¯s right, Aurus was leveling the [Blessing of the Tempest] skill up.

    Ding!

    ¡®[Blessing of the Tempest] has leveled up.¡¯

    Hearing wordse from the system since his sense of vision was closed, Aurus was slightly startled from the speed of leveling up. ¡°That was fast.¡±

    After that, another ten seconds passed by, resulting in another notification sound from the system. This time though, there was a slight surprise.

    Ding!

    ¡®[Blessing of the Tempest] has leveled up.¡¯

    ¡®[High Wind Affinity] has leveled up.¡¯

    ¡®[Blessing of the Tempest] has reached the MAX level.¡¯

    ¡®[Blessing of the Tempest] has met the necessary requirements and is ready to evolve.¡¯

    ¡°Eh? [High Wind Affinity] leveled up?¡± Hearing these wordse out from the system prompted Aurus to stop manipting the Wind energy particles and open his sense of vision.

    This urrence got him thinking for a bit. After a while, he realized that it was natural for [High Wind Affinity] to evolve. ¡°Since [Blessing of the Tempest] is a passive skill rted to Wind, it would make sense for [High Wind Affinity] to level up as well.¡±

    With that in mind, he closed his sense of vision once again, formting a crazy n that would definitely hit multiple birds with one stone.

    ¡°It seems I won¡¯t stop at B-grade for [Blessing of the Tempest].¡±

    ¡°Since the rate of leveling is quite fast for both skills, I¡¯ll just level them up to X-grade, while making sure to max out [Wrath of the Spiritas] and [Unyielding Spiritas]!¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s settled then!¡±

    ¡°Evolve [Blessing of the Tempest]!¡±

 Chapter 84: Flux (2) (Long Chapter)

    Chapter 84: Flux (2) (Long Chapter)

    While Aurus firmed his decision to grind [Blessing of the Tempest] and [High Wind Affinity] simultaneously¡­

    Within a secluded ce inside the small ecosystem of the Tempest Branch Alliance, Herellia was manipting the Wind energy particles around her surroundings. She willed these particles to form a Wind me, which turned into a Wind River not long after. Afterwards, it transformed into a Wind Tree, then a strong tornado after that. The cycle repeated multiple times as the transition between the forms gradually became smoother and smoother, to the point where one could not differentiate whether the conjured Wind particles were a me or a river or any form for that.

    Bang!

    Ding!

    It was only when Herellia was able to unite these four forms into one, allowing for interchangeability, did a small explosion sound ur throughout her body as a notification sound apanied this explosion. A screen appeared in front of her field of vision not long after.

    ¡®[Blessing of the Tetraelemental Tempest] has leveled up.¡¯

    ¡®[Tetraelemental Tempest Affinity] has leveled up.¡¯

    ¡®[Blessing of the Tetraelemental Tempest] and [Tetraelemental Tempest Affinity] have both leveled up.¡¯

    ¡®Both skills have met the necessary requirements and are ready to evolve.¡¯

    Looking at the words written on her screen instantly made her radiate a cheerful aura as the thought of evolving both skills crossed her mind. Yet just as she was about to do so, a silhouette appeared in front of her field of vision, prompting her to cancel all notions of doing so at the moment.

    ¡°Horell, what¡¯s up?¡± Hastily closing the screen in front of her body although knowing the fact that others could not see it, Herelliaposed her emotions as she asked the silhouette that appeared in front of her.

    ¡°A special someone wanted me to inform you and the other Pirs that he can¡¯t be disturbed for 2 weeks since he¡¯s currently trying to evolve to S-grade Inanimate.¡± The silhouette, who was actually Horell, replied with a calm yet cheerful tone.

    ¡°Aurus?¡± This was the first being that came into Herellia¡¯s mind since he was pretty much the only member within the alliance that was not an S-grade yet. Continuing with this line of thought, she now tried to guess how much stronger he would get after evolving to S-grade. ¡°I wonder what level of damage he could deal once he gets to the peak of S-grade?¡±

    ¡°I feel like he has reached the Novice [1] level already,¡± Horell could not help butment at Herellia¡¯s question. ¡°It wouldn¡¯t be farfetched if he could reach Half-Elite or even Elite level at the peak of S-grade.¡±

    ¡°That much?¡± Herellia was surprised at Horell¡¯s estimates. ¡°I was guessing that he would have the power of at most, thrice the power of a Novice level being.¡± She then ced this question at the back of her head, remembering the first statement Horell told her. ¡°Alright then, I won¡¯t disturb Aurus for 2 weeks. I wonder what species he evolves into.¡±

    ¡°We¡¯ll see,¡± Horell radiated a cheerful aura as he replied before teleporting away without a trace.

    ¡­

    Within a secluded room inside the Sparring Tower.

    ¡°Evolve [Blessing of the Tempest].¡±

    Ding!

    At the instant Aurus was finishedmanding the system, a notification screen appeared in front of his field of vision, telling him the name of the newly evolved skill.

    ¡®[Blessing of the Tempest] has been evolved to [Blessing of the Great Tempest].¡¯

    After checking the new name, Aurus then lightly said, ¡°Hit.¡±

    Bang!

    Hearing the trigger word, Fenrir hastily dashed towards Aurus as it smacked Aurus with one of its stubs at full strength.

    ¡°[Branch Benevolence].¡±

    With a huge chunk of Aurus¡¯ HP being removed with that hit, Aurus hastily activated [Branch Benevolence] multiple times, easily healing himself back to full health.

    Ding!

    Not long after, another notification screen appeared in front of Aurus¡¯ field of vision, slightly startling him. Nheless, he was able topose his emotions and get the gist of what the screen was trying to tell him.

    ¡°Evolve [Branch Benevolence]. Choose the path that pursues of single-target healing rather than group healing.¡± Of course, Aurus had a hunch that [Branch Benevolence] was finally maxed out, prompting him to say these words out.

    Ding!

    Surprisingly, his hunch was correct.

    ¡®[Branch Benevolence] has been evolved to [Formosus Exuberance].¡¯

    ¡°I¡¯ll stop up to here for now.¡± Aurus decided that this level of healing was sufficient enough for now. Afterwards, he closed his eyes and tried to sense the specks of green light that was around him.

    It only took Aurus a few seconds to sense the specks of green light, surprised at the fact that the amount of green light he could see floating around was intensified by ten times or around that. At that instant, it dawned on him that the reason he could see more was due to [Blessing of the Tempest] being evolved.

    ¡°It seems that evolving passive skills that are rted to the Wind element are beneficial to sensing the particles of the Wind element faster.¡± Aurus got to this conclusion. ¡°What if¡­my vision was still open yet I try to manipte the Wind energy particles around me?¡±

    This hypothesis came to mind since the amount of Wind energy particles he could sense was intensified by multiple degrees. And so, Aurus opened his sense of vision and tried to manipte the Wind energy particles to form a tornado¡­which actually worked.

    Aurus¡¯ nonexistent eyes gleamed at the possibilities of grinding multiple skills at the same time. Since his sense of vision was closed, he could not aim skills that need to be aimed or cast skills that have a specific ce where they could be casted. But now that his sense of Wind energy particles was heightened, he was now able to realize this dream.

    ¡°It seems that my grinding will get more hectic,¡± Aurus said to himself as he willed more Wind energy particles to enter the tornado he formed, gradually bing bigger and bigger as time passed.

    He then looked at Fenrir who was waiting for his nextmand and said, ¡°Fenrir, thanks for all the help. I¡¯ll call you out when we go hunt next time, okay?¡±

    Rather than bing sad, Fenrir was happy at the fact that it was able to contribute to its master¡¯s progress. Wagging its tail back and forth, Fenrir happily responded with a single word.

    ¡°Yes!¡±

    Whoosh!

    Aurus thenmanded the system to keep Fenrir, making Fenrir disappear in front of him in an instant. After that, his aura became serious as he opened his skill screen, easily expanding the leveling n he made a while ago.

    ¡°Alright, let¡¯s start off with these two skills!¡±

    ¡°[Wrath of the Spiritas]!¡±

    ¡°[Unyielding Spiritas]!¡±

    Whoosh!

    Whoosh!

    Ding!

    ¡®[Unyielding Spiritas] has leveled up.¡¯

    ¡®[Unyielding Spiritas] has reached the MAX level.¡¯

    ¡®The skill has met the necessary requirements and is ready to evolve.¡¯

    ¡°Okay! Let¡¯s keep up this pace!¡±

    ¡­

    And so, Aurus went into a skill grinding spree, not caring about his body¡¯s needs at all since he was of course, an Inanimate that had no need for such things.

    After three hours have passed, Aurus was able to reach the MAX level for [Blessing of the Great Tempest] and [High Wind Affinity], evolving them without hesitation to [Blessing of the True Tempest] and [Swift Gale Affinity] respectively. It was also around this time that Aurus decided to evolve [Wrath of the Spiritas] and [Unyielding Spiritas] to B-grade for now due to their long cooldown, with thetter being evolve to its B-grade version [Spiritas Fortress] already.

    Twelve hourster, [Blessing of the True Tempest] and [Swift Gale Affinity] were able to reach the MAX level, with [Wrath of the Spiritas] being able to finally reach the MAX level as well. These three were evolved to [Blessing of the Supreme Tempest], [Relentless Tempest Affinity] and [Spiritas Rage] respectively. After evolving both Wind-rted passive skills to S-grade, Aurus decided to take a break from both of these skills, focusing on grinding the other skills first before pursuing the X-grade versions of these skills. The first set of skills he grinded were the three Life and Will skills.

    It only took an hour of going back and forth from the Life and Will Fountain and the Sparring Tower to max the three Life and Will skills and evolve them, adding another plus sign to the end of their skill names. Not only that, [Seeker of Two Destinies] and [Grand Vessel of Higher Sentience], which were passive Life and Will skills, were able to reach Level 5 due to Life and Will points being absorbed by Aurus.

    Aurus then simultaneously grinded [Tempestuous Spiritas Glide], which was almost at its MAX level due to it being used a lot throughout the X-grade massacre, and [Soul Perception II], which was also used throughout the X-grade massacre. It took Aurus around 2 days to max out [Tempestuous Spiritas Glide] while [Soul Perception II] was evolved in the middle of the grind to [Soul Perception III], easily reaching Level 9 at the time Aurus¡¯ movement skill was maxed out.

    Aurus did not hesitate to evolve [Tempestuous Spiritas Glide] to its X-grade version, [Instantaneous Spiritas Movement], which was also a Special grade skill just like its S-grade form. It was around this time that Aurus finally remembered obtaining the [Spirit Gale sh] skill from the Tempest Cliff Inheritance, grinding it alongside his Spell Core skill, his stat boosting skill, and his HP to SP skill.

    After 3 days, [Spirit Gale sh] was able to evolve to its A-grade form and S-grade form, turning into [Void Gale Spirit Shift], which definitely did not lose out to his other movement skill in terms of speed. As for the other skills, Aurus evolved his Spell Core from Middle grade to Middle-High grade, which was the X-grade version of it, evolved his HP to SP skill to S-grade, which now had a name of [Supreme Spirit-Vitality Unification], and maxed out the stat boosting skill he relied on the most and evolved it, turning into [Zenith Spirit Transcendence].

    He then focused on [Century Polymorph] for half a day, evolving it to [Myriad Manifestation Polymorph] at the instant it reached its MAX level. Just when he was about to grind the two Wind-rted passive skills once more, Aurus remembered that the Spirit Energy Core skill he had had finally reached the MAX level, evolving it to [Zenith Purity Spirit Energy Core] not long after.

    Now, since both [Blessing of the Supreme Tempest] and [Relentless Tempest Affinity] were both S-grade, it took Aurus 5 days ofprehension and maniption to let both reach their MAX levels, evolving them to their X-grade forms with glee written all over his nonexistent face. The names of their X-grade forms were [Blessing of the Zenith Tempest] and [Infinite Tempest Affinity] respectively.

    After all of this, Aurus could not help but let out a sigh as he noticed that he had increased his strength once more without ever going out of the alliance base. Not only that, he could not help but think that he could actually be strong in a short timeframe like two weeks if it wasn¡¯t for leveling, distractions, and whatnot.

    ¡°Open skill screen.¡± Of course, with almost every skill being evolved to a certain extent, Aurus wanted to take ast look at his skills before evolving to his S-grade form, which would definitely knock him out unconscious for a few days since he was knocked out for a day when he evolved to A-grade from B-grade.

    Ding!

    ______

    Active ss Skills:

    [Middle-High Spirit Spell Core (Wind Variant) Lv. 1], [Zenith Spirit Transcendence Lv. 1], [Supreme Spirit-Vitality Unification Lv. 1]

    Passive ss Skills:

    [Zenith Purity Spirit Energy Core (Wind Variant) Lv. 1], [Spiritas Seed Lv. 10]

    Active Species Skills:

    [Instantaneous Spiritas Movement (Special) Lv.1], [Spirit Sword of Seven Hells (Rare) Lv. 7], [Myriad Manifestation Polymorph Lv. 1], [Spiritas Rage Lv. 1], [Spiritas Fortress Lv. 1], [Formosus Exuberance Lv. 1], [Void Gale Spirit Shift Lv. 1], [Spirit Clone Lv.1], [Spirit Aura (Rare) Lv. 1], [Alliance Call], [Judgement]

    Passive Species Skills:

    [Soul Perception III Lv. 9], [Infinite Tempest Affinity Lv.1], [Zenith Purity Spiritas SP Vessel Lv. 8)], [Transcendent Vitality Anima Creation Lv. 7], [Seeker of Two Destinies Lv. 5], [Grand Vessel of Higher Sentience Lv. 5], [Greater Illusion Resistance Lv. 1], [Blessing of the Zenith Tempest (Special) Lv. 1], [Power of the Alliance (Executive A-grade Variant) Lv. 5], [Blessing of the Reincarnation Goddess Lv.MAX]

    Active Life and Will Skills:

    [Blooming Vitality++ Lv. 1], [Indomitable Will++ Lv. 1], [Sentience++ Lv. 1]

    ______

    Although most of the skills on Aurus¡¯ skill screen were at their initial level, what Aurus pursued was their grade levels, which Aurus was able to achieve throughout these past 10 days or so.

    Taking in a long deep breath through his body, he closed his skill screen and said to himself, ¡°I have dyed this for quite a long time. My foundation is now strong enough to fight against X-grade Inanimates while being at the A-grade.¡±

    ¡°Will I be able to fight against Animates once I evolve to S-grade?¡± Aurus chuckled at this thought that formed in his mind.

    ¡°Evolve.¡±

    Ding!

    This was the moment he had been waiting for. To finally get one step closer to bing an Animate. But¡­

    Why were there so many choices?

    ________

    Please choose the species that you would like [Aurus ¡ª Wind Walnut Spiritas (Rare)] to evolve into:

    [Tempest Walnut Spiritas ¨C High Energistas (Rare)]

    [Tempest Walnut Spiritas ¨C Encantris (Rare)]

    [Tempest Walnut Spiritas ¨C Khyraox (Rare)]

    [Tempest Walnut Spiritas ¨C Benevoleir (Rare)]

    [Tempest Walnut Spiritas Flux (Rare+)]

    ________

    Aurus could not help but scratch his nonexistent head at the choices as all of them had overbearing names. Of course, if Aurus wanted to choose a species to evolve into that regarded the grade of the ss as the highest priority, he would not hesitate to choose thetter. Yet¡­

    ¡°System, what does Encantris, Khyraox, and Benevir mean?¡± As far as Aurus knew, there were warriors (Werei), mages (Energistas), berserkers (Belhazard), and rangers (Raneiros) in sses. But looking at these new names at first nce, it seemed that these sses were more specific in purpose.

    Ding!

    ¡®User, species of the Encantris variant serve to support the other beings through their wide area buffs that could easily turn the tide when used correctly. Not only that, they could alsobine and stack these buffs to their liking, allowing for multiple effects that range in strength and duration. In fantasy terms, these are the Enchanters.¡¯

    ¡®As for species of the Khyraox variant, these variants yearn for destruction and chaos, using their knowledge of wide-area spells and skills, including debuffs, to instill not only fear, but ravage and destroy everything within their reach. In fantasy terms, these are the Destruction Lords¡­they could also be called the Warlocks.¡¯

    ¡®Andstly, species of the Benevir variant are those considered by nature as their chosen guardians, exuding a great amount of vitality in order to help other beings in need. These variants specialize in healing and buffs that are rted to nature, serving as a support that is usually used in long-duration battles. In fantasy terms, these are the Oracles.¡¯

    With these words being exined by the system, Aurus decided to identify the three sses and the Rare+ ss. He decided that pursuing the High Energistas ss would just be redundant and would have no purpose to improve his ability as a whole.

    Ding! Ding! Ding! Ding!

    ________

    [Tempest Walnut Spiritas ¨C Encantris (Rare)]

    A Spiritas who has found their purpose of helping other Spiritii [2] through the usage of buffs that could be mixed and matched to their needs. These variants are known to be the bane of Inanimate armies, due to the fact that a single buff can make or break a fight.

    >The active ss skill [Spirit Enchant Core] is obtained.

    >The active ss skill [Negative Siphon] is obtained.

    >The active ss skill [Enchant Combination] is obtained.

    >The passive ss skill [Enchantment Mastery] is obtained.

    >The passive ss skill [Encantris Seed] is obtained.

    ________

    ¡°Ah. Mastery skills.¡± Looking at the skills he would obtain once he advanced to S-grade, he remembered that alongside ss Seed skills which boosted certain stats and certain abilities, Mastery skills could be also obtained that could boost a certain ss¡¯ powers, either it be damage, duration of buffs, and other things rted to the ss the Mastery skill is boosting.

    ________

    [Tempest Walnut Spiritas ¨C Khyraox (Rare)]

    A Spiritas who has found their purpose ofmitting mass destruction and chaos through their wide-range skills and debuffs, taking pleasure in the pain they deal to other beings. Most Inanimate armies tend to avoiding in contact with these variants due to their crazed mindsets.

    >The active ss skill [Spirit Chaos Core] is obtained.

    >The active ss skill [Dark Phantasmagoria] is obtained.

    >The active ss skill [Chaos Clone] is obtained.

    >The passive ss skill [Chaos Mastery] is obtained.

    >The passive ss skill [Khyraox Seed] is obtained.

    ________

    ________

    [Tempest Walnut Spiritas ¨C Benevir (Rare)]

    A Spiritas who has found their purpose of supporting other Spiritii through healing and buffs that rely on nature to be conjured. These variants are the bane of multiple Inanimate armies due to their ability of even reviving dead Spiritii in the midst of battle.

    >The active ss skill [Spirit Healing Core] is obtained.

    >The active ss skill [Revtion] is obtained.

    >The active ss skill [Codex of Nature¡¯s Will] is obtained.

    >The passive ss skill [Healing Mastery] is obtained.

    >The passive ss skill [Benevir Seed] is obtained.

    ________

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡± Looking at the skills that he would obtain from the first three sses he identified, he felt that he would be severely limited when choosing them. First of all, two of the three sses were focused on supporting others rather than fighting on the frontlines, which was one of Aurus¡¯ favorite things to do. As for the other ss that did fight on the frontlines, it was more on one versus all rather than one versus one, which would easily make him use up a lot of SP in a short time, even when fighting against one enemy.

    ¡°Haah¡­I hope this Rare+ ss is something along my train of thought. If not, I¡¯ll have to choose between the three.¡±

    Whoosh!

    And so, the final screen regarding the possible species evolution he could choose appeared in front of his field of vision. Reading through all of it in one go, Aurus¡¯ nonexistent eyes started to gleam as he muttered in his mind, ¡®This is the one!¡¯

    ________

    [Tempest Walnut Spiritas Flux (Rare+)]

    A Spiritas that does not want to serve others, yet does not want to only rely on itself as well. These types of Spiritii have realized their goal of bing a stronger type of False Animate species, grasping the profound notion of the Flux, the thing that binds their bodies¡¯ Animas together, which is also a deadly item when used correctly. Nheless, their flexibility and adaptability to all situations is far beyond what other variants could achieve.

    >The active ss skill [Flux Enchantment] is obtained.

    >The active ss skill [Flux Armor Creation] is obtained.

    >The active ss skill [Flux Weapon Creation] is obtained.

    >The active ss skill [Flux Sacrifice] is obtained.

    >The passive ss skill [Nine Flux Transformation] is obtained.

    >The passive ss skill [Flux Mastery] is obtained.

    >The passive ss skill [Flux Weapon Mastery] is obtained.

    >The passive ss skill [Flux Armor Mastery] is obtained.

    >The passive ss skill [Spiritas Flux Seed] is obtained.

    ________

    The reason why Aurus chose this ss rather than the other sses was due to the fact that this ss would give him ess to a feature that only a select lucky few would have ess to in ISE. Although he did not know if this was the case or not, the number of his skills he would get alone serves as a good enough reason for him to choose.

    Ding!

    ¡®Are you sure you would like to evolve Aurus to [Tempest Walnut Spiritas Flux (Rare+)]?¡¯

    ¡°Yes,¡± Aurus answered without hesitation. He was eager to find out what uses the skills he obtained would have.

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    All of a sudden, the sound of the wind could be heard by Aurus, although he was still inside a secluded room. Nheless, he knew that it was part of the process of the evolution this time as his consciousness gradually weakened, slowlying to a lull as the sound of the wind intensified.

    From a third person¡¯s perspective, this sound of wind came from the Wind energy particles that surrounded Aurus. These Wind energy particles gradually came into contact with Aurus¡¯ body, gradually forming a cocoon of Wind energy particles that covered Aurus¡¯ body as his soul became unconscious.

    Ding!

    Not long after, a notification sound was heard. It was apanied with a monotonous voice.

    ¡®[Aurus ¡ª Wind Walnut Spiritas (Rare)] has been evolved into [Aurus ¡ª Tempest Walnut Spiritas Flux (Rare+)].¡¯

    And then, after a few minutes of silence, another voice could be heard.

    ¡°Congrattions Aurus for reaching S-grade. I hope you¡¯ll like the gift I gave you before you be my weapon.¡±

    ¡°Hehe.¡±

    ¡ª¡ª¨C

    [1] This pertains to a new ssification I made of how much damage a being can deal, the lowest being Novice and Elite being second lowest. You¡¯ll see soon enough.

    [2] Plural of Spiritas

 Chapter 85: Bonus â€” Character Sheet

    Chapter 85: Bonus ¡ª Character Sheet

    Within this bonus chapter, here you will see the stats of the characters that have been mentioned before or recently throughout the novel. I¡¯ll also add some of their most well-known skills. Let¡¯s start off with Aurus. Note that this is his stats before evolving to S-grade.

    ________

    [Aurus] (Level 10/10)

    Experience: MAX

    Species: Wind Walnut Spiritas (Rare)

    Existence Level: Inanimate

    Grade: A

    [HP]: 616/616

    [SP]: 1700/1700

    [Life]: 125/125

    [Will]: 125/125

    Stats:

    [Tenacity]: 63

    [Vitality]: 112

    [Spirit]: 126

    Synchronization Rate: 40%

    Unused Experience Points: 214855

    Unused Genesis Points: 32

    ________

    And so, that¡¯s Aurus¡¯ stats. I would like to note that the order of stats for Inanimate beings are as follows: Defense, Vitality, then Attack. For Animate beings like Dane, Erea, Vanadir, Krodel, and so on, that is another case.

    Next up is Herellia, which is the leader of the Tempest Branch Alliance. Surely she would have extremely high stats, right?

    ________

    Herellia (Level 40/40)

    Experience: MAX

    Species: Branch Grandius Formosus ¨C Blood Belhazard (Special+)

    Existence Level: Inanimate

    Grade: X

    [HP]: 17200/17200

    [SP]: 8150/8150

    [Sentience]: 350/350

    [Bloodlust]: 625/625

    Stats:

    [Rationality]: 3924

    [Blood Energy]: 4325

    [Rage]: 7183

    Synchronization Rate: 80%

    Unused Experience Points: 3257431

    Unused Genesis Points: 426

    ________

    Holy, that¡¯s a lot of unused experience and Genesis Points. Nheless, her stats have improved from the first time we met her in Chapter 36¡­although it is a somewhat small increase. And what¡¯s this? A Special+ ss? That¡¯s somewhat rare (please do not confuse with Rare sses).

    Her well-known skills due to her being a Blood Belhazard is of course the aptly named [Supreme Sanguine Arts], a skill of the Mortal X-grade level. Eh? You¡¯ve only heard of her casting [Sanguine Arts]? That¡¯s a given for she does not need to exert her full strength so far.

    Let¡¯s move onto Horell, who is known for being extremely cooperative with Aurus and helps Herellia around with matters concerning the alliance.

    ________

    Horell (Level 35/40)

    Experience: 4380/8450

    Species: Branch Grandius Formosus ¨C High Energistas

    Existence Level: Inanimate

    Grade: X

    [HP]: 30530/30530

    [SP]: 18250/18250

    [Sentience]: 280/280

    [Logic]: 450/450

    Stats:

    [Mental Fortitude]: 4280

    [Mental Vitality]: 5340

    [Spirit]: 5130

    ________

    Oh? Ever since we¡¯ve met Horell in Chapter 35, his stats were lesser than Herellia other than HP, but now¡­the gap is closing? Plus the amount of SP he has has doubled? I wonder what he has been doing during the times where he isn¡¯t called by Herellia or Aurus¡­or any other member in that case.

    His most well-known skill is [Near-Supreme Spell Core], which is definitely a great improvement from [Middle-High Spell Core] as the former is already a skill of the Transcendent level, B-grade.

    Hmm¡­who else should we talk about¡­for Fenrir, just refer to Chapter¡­uh¡­what was again? Chapter 81, right.

    To be honest¡­oh wait! Let¡¯s identify Chonk¡¯s stats! This shall also be theyout of the stat screen for Animates from now on (for previousyout, look at Chapter 30). Just a heads-up.

    ________

    Chonk (Level 10/10)

    Experience: MAX

    Species: Stone Wolf

    Existence Level: Animate

    Grade: Rank 0

    Tempering Skill: Tempest Genesis Rebirth (95%)

    [HP]: 25/25

    [MP]: 8/8

    Stats:

    Vitality ¨C 12

    Strength ¨C 14

    Agility ¨C 17

    Intelligence ¨C 9

    Defense ¨C 11

    ________

    Aww. Chonk looks extremely weak. Do note that Animates can easily kill Inanimates. As for their pitifully low stats, it shall be exined in Volume 3, where the fun truly happens.

    As for its special skill, I guess being able to breathe? I don¡¯t know, it¡¯s focused on grabbing the core of the Tempest Cliff for now.

    Now let¡¯s move on to what has acted as our eyes to the Animate world, also known as the Seraph Kingdom. As a Rank 4 High Mage, I wonder how high Dane¡¯s stats are.

    ________

    Dane (Level 41/50)

    Experience: 32575/47580

    Species: Human (Mana Imbued)

    Existence Level: Animate

    Grade: Rank 4 ¡ª High Mage

    Tempering Skill: Boundless Mind (100%)

    Ascension Skill: Otherworldly Spirit, Zenith Soul (Level 4, 37%)

    [HP]: 275/275

    [MP]: 450/450

    Stats:

    Vitality ¨C 164

    Strength ¨C 45

    Agility ¨C 78

    Intelligence ¨C 318

    Defense ¨C 52

    ________

    Compared to Chonk, Dane is incredibly strong. It¡¯s still pitifully low though. As for Dane¡¯s most well-known skill, that would probably be [Supreme Silent Spellcasting], allowing him to cast spells without the need for incantation once the spell has been ingrained into his mind.

    And I guess that¡¯s it for now, we don¡¯t know much about Vanadir yet, plus there might be other people who would serve a greater purpose like Kevin, which I don¡¯t want to spoil their stats for now.

    As for Kurohana, she¡¯s a goddess. How can I identify her stats if she¡¯s on the same level of existence as me?

    Anyways, the start of Volume 3 will happen on the next weekly power stone ranking reset, with it¡­not being focused on Aurus. Although it does have something to do with him¡­I think.

    Ah¡­I¡¯ve spoken too much. Just wait for the new volume, okay?

    Also, if there are any plotline I missed or forgot to continue, please also tell me since I¡¯m sure it would frustrate you to see it being on a cliffhanger (cough cough).

    ¡ª¡ª¨C

    Author¡¯s Note (August 29, 2020):

    Oh, hey. Truedawn here. I hope you¡¯re enjoying the novel I¡¯ve written so far. If you did, then I¡¯m sure you¡¯re going to like the next volume. If not, then do tell me what I can improve upon¡­though I am going to revise the first two volumes due to how bad they are. Anyways, the next chapter is the start of my locked chapters.

    I¡¯d highly appreciate it if you use coins to unlock my chapters, but if you don¡¯t have enough coins, fast passes are also fine as well, I can understand. But if you truly want to support me in this writing journey of mine, it would be great if you do use coins because using fast passes on my novel doesn¡¯t earn me anything, unlike coins.

    And with that, I hope you enjoy Volume 3!

 Chapter 86: Magnus Tempestria

    Chapter 86: Magnus Tempestria

    XXXX Continent, Seraph Kingdom, within Kelsey¡¯s smithy.

    ¡°I trust you that you can do just that, right?¡± Dane looked at Kelsey with expectation since she was the only cksmith within the Seraph Kingdom that could handle both of the materials he brought out with great proficiency and skill. Kelsey looked at the Gale Dragon Wood and Spirit Star Steel Dane brought out and pondered for a bit as a slight frown appeared on her face. After about a minute or so, Kelsey sped her hands together and nodded with a smile towards Dane, saying, ¡°Alright! I can do what you want me to do.¡±

    Just as Dane wanted to head towards Kelsey¡¯s furnace and start the crafting process, Kelsey raised two¡­no, three fingers up in the air as a grin appeared on her face. ¡°Of course, you know the rules of this establishment¡­¡±

    ¡°Right, Dane?¡±

    Dane looked at the number of fingers Kelsey held up and let out a sigh as he snapped his fingers after cing both items on a nearby table. A few secondster, a rift was opened in front of Kelsey as gold coins started to pour out of the rift, forming a pile of gold coins in front of Kelsey¡¯s feet.

    Cling! Cling! Cling!

    After a while, thest gold coin was poured out of the rift, prompting Dane to close the rift as he looked at Kelsey and said, ¡°Here you go. Thirty thousand gold. Is that enough for you?¡±

    Kelsey became speechless at Dane¡¯s decisiveness to pay up at the first instant she mentioned money. She could not help but look at the pile of gold coins in front of her that spanned around five meters in diameter and had a height that was equal to her waist. Mind you that she¡¯s a tall person, being 1.83 meters in height.

    ¡®Oh man, I just did as a joke, but now¡­¡¯ Kelsey could not help but shake her head and mutter to herself, ¡°Oh well, I¡¯ll just make sure that the product is going to be something I put my heart into.¡±

    ¡°Come with me then,¡± Kelsey put on a light smile on her face as she urged Dane to follow her to the furnace found in the smithy, which was also the only furnace that could withstand temperatures of over 8000 degrees Celsius, befitting of Kelsey¡¯s title as the best cksmith.

    Without dy, Dane grabbed the two items he brought and followed Kelsey to the furnace, wherein he gave the Spirit Star Steel to her and said, ¡°I want you to craft a de with this material that is best suited for fighting. Can you also create a few grooves on the de so I can imbue it with mana?¡±

    Tying up her hair into a bun, Kelsey examined the Spirit Star Steel for a bit before giving a thumbs up as she sat down on a chair near the furnace, where an anvilid in front of the chair. ¡°Got it. Is it a one-handed magic de or a two-handed one?¡±

    ¡°One-handed,¡± Dane replied without thinking twice as he sat down on a chair, facing the Gale Dragon Wood that was ced down on a nearby table. It was fortunate that the table Dane was working on was close to where Kelsey was working, allowing them to speak with each other.

    ¡°Hmm¡­since it¡¯s one-handed and meant for fighting, then nothing can beat a saber,¡± Kelsey decided on the type of de she was going to craft in just a few seconds. ¡°Also, since you mentioned it a while ago, there are a lot of types of grooves for imbuing mana. Is it to increase its attacking power, increase its mana regeneration, or¡­¡±

    As a magic circle started to appear in front of Dane¡¯s right palm, Dane thought for a bit before responding with, ¡°Create a hybrid groove on the de that can increase the user¡¯s mana regeneration, as well as their perceptivity towards elemental particles.¡±

    ¡°Got it.¡± With Dane¡¯s input, Kelsey easily formted a blueprint for the de she was going to craft, cing the Spirit Star Steel into the furnace as she fanned the mes, allowing the temperature of the furnace to reach greater heights.

    While Kelsey was starting to melt the Spirit Star Steel, Dane was bringing out the full properties of the Gale Dragon Wood, especially the iplete soul found within the piece of wood he bought.

    ¡®With this iplete soul, this will allow the Ninth Prince to cast more Level 3 and Level 4 spells from the [Wind Dragon¡¯s Four Forms] spell I created.¡¯ With this thought in mind, Dane started to chant the words needed to do just that.

    ¡°2nd Circle. Aule Supris Vitalis Singulus. Nihil Opse Trigitas Maximus.¡±

    ¡°Soul Siphon.¡±

    Swoooooshhh¡­

    As a sucking sound started to softly reverberate around Dane¡¯s surroundings, a small shrieking from the Gale Dragon Wood could be heard, which made Dane happy as he knew that this shriek came from the iplete soul found in the Gale Dragon Wood.

    Pinpointing the location of the iplete soul of the Gale Dragon Wood, he then used arge amount of his mana to affix this soul in a certain spot as he casted another magic circle.

    ¡°1st Circle. Gravitas Supris Widus.¡±

    ¡°Soul Scatter ¡ª Gravitas.¡±

    Swiiiishhh¡­

    Not long after, a sound akin to what one could hear when a breeze passes by could be heard as the vitality of the iplete soul was scattered all throughout the Gale Dragon Wood, allowing the aura of the Gale Dragon Wood to be increased by a few notches.

    He then carved a few grooves on the Gale Dragon Wood, taking the iplete soul and the de that was still going through forging into consideration, as he wanted to maximize the effect of the grooves that he was going to imbue mana into.

    Looking at the grooves he carved on the Gale Dragon Wood, he could not help but let out a sigh of enjoyment. Just as he was about to look at what Kelsey was doing, Kelsey asked Dane, ¡°Since this is a magic de that you and I, two great beings within the Seraph Kingdom would craft, don¡¯t you think that it should have an overbearing name like Super Ultra Wind God yer or Zenith Tempest Devourer?¡±

    Dane could not help but shudder after hearing the names Kelsey suggested. As he gradually infused mana into the Gale Dragon Wood, he could not help but think up of a good name for the magic de. ¡°You know what Kelsey, you¡¯re right. The first name you gave is slightly garbage while the second one is decent but¡­¡±

    ¡°Hey! How dare you call my names garbage!¡± Kelsey could not help but puff her cheeks from anger. Nheless, Kelsey decided to take Dane¡¯s name for this weapon they were going to craft. ¡°So, what name shall it have?¡±

    Dane closed his eyes for a bit before opening them up with a me of firm determination within them.

    ¡°Let¡¯s call the de¡­Magnus Tempestria.¡±

    Dane obtained his inspiration from an old book he read about one of the ancientnguages of Erudinia, where Magnus meant ¡®best¡¯, and Tempestria meant well¡­¡¯tempest¡¯.

    ¡°Magnus Tempestria¡­¡±

    ¡°Dane, you have a naming sense that¡¯s worse than mine!¡±

    ¡°¡­¡±

    ¡­

    Within the Tempest Cliff where the Tempest Branch Alliance¡¯s base resides. Within it lies a small ecosystem where a building named the Sparring Tower exists. Inside the Sparring Tower was a secluded room where a cocoon made out of Wind energy particles could be seen.

    This cocoon was the shell protecting the insides of the currently evolving Aurus. It has been 3 days since Aurus started to evolve from A-grade to S-grade. During these 3 days, the aura that the cocoon emanated had intensified by a few times. Not only that, the body that was being molded for Aurus was now different from before. If his previous bodies were all bodies that resembled sticks and branches, this time, it was more akin to a rough wooden sculpture of a human.

    Indeed, a rough wooden sculpture of a human. Since the Animas that made up Aurus¡¯ body were semicorporeal and flxeible, this meant that Aurus could pretty much take up any shape while he was an A-grade Inanimate. Nheless, he stuck with his branchy body throughout all that, save for a few times where he had to use it.

    This time, Aurus¡¯ body was now leaning towards a humanoid shape, which meant that Aurus¡¯ previous branch body could not amodate the skills that his S-grade evolution would give him, and a humanoid shape would allow him to use those skills better.

    Amidst all this, a faint white energy enveloped each and every Anima that made up Aurus¡¯ body as the aura his body emanated gradually intensified as time passed, increasing the aura that the cocoon radiated.

    A few minutester, something magical happened.

    The cocoon that covered Aurus¡¯ body started to form cracks, which hastily became bigger as Aurus¡¯ new body was brought to light. But rather than breaking apart and dissipating into thin air, this cocoon made out of Wind energy particles decided to head towards Aurus¡¯ body, which was absorbed by his body subconsciously. Gradually, the cocoon that covered Aurus¡¯ body disappeared, revealing a humanoid shaped Aurus that looked like a rough wooden sculpture, yet at the same time like a smooth marble sculpture due to the white energy that covered each and every Anima on Aurus¡¯ body.

    A few seconds after the cocoon dissipated¡­

    Aurus opened his sense of vision.

 Chapter 87: New Features

    Chapter 87: New Features

    Within the Celestial ne.

    For these past few days, Kurohana was focused on strengthening her grasp over thew of reincarnation as she noticed that Aurus was going through a massive grind in his skills. Kurohana, seeing this, decided to grind her skills and stuff as well as she did not really want to watch Aurus grind¡­although she was fine with watching Aurus¡¯ mundane life.

    Ding!

    All of a sudden, a ringing sound resounded through Kurohana¡¯s ears, which prompted her to open her eyes that were closed all this time.

    ¡°Eh? Something interesting happened to Aurus?¡± This was the first thing toe out of Kurohana¡¯s mouth. Why? This was because she created a miniature Artifux [1] that would attend to the orb, alerting her in the case that something happened to Aurus.

    She stood up from where she sat cross-legged, circting the parts of thew of reincarnation she just learned through pondering and assimted it into her body before hovering towards the orb, where indeed, something interesting happened to Aurus.

    She snapped her fingers, creating a chair out of the white material that covered her surroundings and sat down on it, looking at the change that happened to Aurus with full enthusiasm, only to frown in the end.

    Within the orb that allowed her to view Aurus¡¯ life, she was currently looking at a green cocoon that nurtured and reinforced a half corporeal branch that was in this case, Aurus.

    She could not help but click her tongue after seeing this. ¡°Tsk. To think that the change that happened to him was him actually evolving. Why can¡¯t he be used as a weapon material after he reached the peak of A-grade?¡±

    To be honest, although living for hundreds of millions of years, Kurohana was someone who was impatient, wanting to get things she wanted in the shortest timeframe she could. This was a stark contrast to her profession, being a craftswoman, which needed intense patience and perseverance for a great work to be produced.

    Realizing that her other side wasing out, she took in a few deep breaths before muttering to herself as a constion, ¡°Then again, if he¡¯s used as a weapon material as an S-grade Inanimate, it would give me a weapon that¡¯s possibly a grade higher than what could be crafted when he could be used as a material as an A-grade being.¡±

    Gradually, her thoughts became jumbled and let out a long sigh, looking at the orb where Aurus¡¯ future bodyid. She looked at it for a bit then got a spark of inspiration, which made the corners of her mouth curve up as she knew that the idea in her mind was feasible.

    ¡°I can still afford to wait for a year or so, that¡¯s the maximum time I¡¯ll allot for Aurus to be a weapon,¡± Kurohana lightly said to herself as she waved her hands in the air, in front of the orb, releasing her mastery over thew of reincarnation to its limit.

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    A few secondster, the sound of wind breezing could be faintly heard throughout the white space as a few strands of golden energy formed in midair, before charging straight towards the orb as the cocoon¡¯s aura slightly intensified. To an outsider, no one would notice this difference at all.

    After doing what she did, she could not help but pant as she muttered, ¡°Haa¡­haa¡­controlling a part of a strongerw than yours is definitely¡­taxing.¡±

    Not long after, she could not help but chuckle.

    ¡°Then again, this would hasten Aurus¡¯ fate a bit.¡±

    ¡°Congrattions Aurus for reaching S-grade, I hope you¡¯ll like the gift I gave you before you be my weapon.¡±

    ¡°Hehe.¡±

    ¡­

    Erudinia, XXXX Continent, Tempest Cliff, Tempest Branch Alliance Base, Sparring Tower, inside a certain secluded room.

    After waking up from his evolutionary process, the first thing Aurus did was to look at his surroundings. Realizing that he was still in the same ce, Aurus could not help but inwardly let out a sigh of relief.

    ¡°Hah¡­ I¡¯m officially an S-grade being,¡± Aurus said to himself. He then looked at his new body from a third person¡¯s perspective, which slightly surprised him.

    ¡°Eh? I look more like a wooden human than a branch? Wait¡­ don¡¯t I look extremely smooth?¡± This was the first thing that came to Aurus¡¯ mind after looking at his new body. When he peered at his body from a close standpoint, he could see that his body was truly wooden¡­well made out of Animas that were previously made from wood.

    But when he looked from afar, it seemed that Aurus¡¯ body was made from one piece of marble, or a material that was extremely smooth. It was at this moment that he realized something, he could peer into the internal makeup of each and every Anima of his body, which was something he could not do before his evolution.

    ¡°Open status screen,¡± Aurusmanded, taking a quick look at his status screen before closing it, confirming something that was on his mind. ¡°Yep, my synchronization rate has increased by 20% once more.¡±

    After doing that, a question formed in his head regarding his body. ¡°Can I move the ¡®limbs¡¯ on this body of mine? Or is it something aesthetic?¡±

    Hence, he looked at his right upper limb and willed it to move upwards.

    Whoosh!

    ¡°Woah, it can actually move.¡± Aurus¡¯ right upper limb moved upwards, albeit in a stiff manner due to him being an Inanimate¡­well, False Animate. He then tried to move his other limbs, in which they moved ordingly as well. After that, he tried to move his head and other parts of his wooden body, only for it to fail.

    ¡°Well¡­my four limbs can move, that alone is enough for me to do things that the others can¡¯t,¡± Aurus consoled himself as the four moveable limbs did offer him a wider range of freedom.

    ¡°But I just can¡¯t seem to get used to it.¡± Aurus could not help but feel that he was not him due to his body being different. And so, he decided to¡­

    ¡°Morph!¡±

    Fwoosh!

    In an instant, Aurus¡¯ humanoid body gradually ttened and rounded out, returning to the look he had as an A-grade, a big branch.

    ¡°Ah, that¡¯s better.¡± Aurus had his mind filled with peace after he morphed back to his previous form. Aurus knew that this form would limit him a lot, but there was still a lot of time, he would get used to his humanoid body sooner orter.

    He then decided to look at the notifications that popped up during his evolution, which made him slightly shocked as a lot more features became avable to him.

    Ding!

    ¡®[Aurus ¡ª Wind Walnut Spiritas (Rare)] has evolved to [Aurus ¡ª Tempest Walnut Spiritas Flux (Rare+)].¡¯

    ¡®The resource ¡®Flux¡¯ has been unlocked thanks to a specific evolution path.¡¯

    ¡®The passive skill [Flux Vessel] has been created due to the ¡®Flux¡¯ resource being unlocked.¡¯

    ¡®The active skills [Flux Enchantment], [Flux Armor Creation], [Flux Weapon Creation], and [Flux Sacrifice] have been obtained thanks to evolution.¡¯

    ¡®The passive skills [Nine Flux Transformation], [Flux Mastery], [Flux Weapon Mastery], [Flux Armor Mastery], and [Spiritas Flux Seed] have been obtained thanks to evolution.¡¯

    ¡®The Flux Equipment system has been unlocked due to having the two prerequisite skills: [Flux Weapon Creation] and [Flux Armor Creation].¡¯

    ¡®When using the humanoid form, the user can use one weapon and four pieces of armor. When using any other form, only weapons can be used.¡¯

    ¡®1 OS Point has been obtained.¡¯

    Aurus could not help but close and open his sense of vision a few times at the sheer disbelief he felt after looking at the notifications he received. It took him a while to digest all of the information, ending up bing extremely gleeful since it gave him greater room for improvement.

    ¡°I now have another resource other than Life and Will points, which is Flux,¡± Aurus muttered to himself. He then looked at the white particles that covered each and every Anima on his body before muttering to himself, ¡°This is Flux, right? This was something I did not have on my body before. I wonder how I can replenish this?¡±

    ¡°I now also have ess to the Equipment system¡­well the Flux Equipment system but still the Equipment system nheless.¡± Aurus¡¯ nonexistent eyes gleamed at the possibilities he had with this system at hand. Within his currently unsealed memories, only a select few had ess to the Equipment system, which allowed them to reign over the yers who were Inanimates, and excel over the yers who were Animates due to their higher leveled weapon mastery skills.

    But the thing that made Aurus the most gleeful was the fact that he had obtained another OS Point.

    ¡°Open OS.¡± Aurusmanded the system as he was going to use the OS Point he obtained. He did not care about the fact that he was not going to have any OS Points after this since he was bound to get one once he evolved anyway.

    Ding!

    _________

    [Existence Evolution OS]

    OS Points: 1

    ¡ª-

    Level Up Synchronization (1/10)

    Cost to upgrade: 1 OS Point

    ¡ª-

    Artificial Intelligence (0/1)

    Cost to upgrade: 1 OS Point

    ¡ª-

    Memory DLC (1/3)

    Cost to upgrade: 1 OS Point

    ________

    ¡°Upgrade [Memory DLC].¡± Aurus did not hesitate to upgrade this portion of the OS since he knew that he could rely on his memories to hasten his progress in leveling and bing strong.

    Ding!

    ¡®Are you sure that you want to upgrade [Memory DLC]?¡¯

    ¡°Yes.¡± A firm and crisp reply could be heard from Aurus as he knew what he was doing.

    Ding!

    ¡®[Memory DLC] has been upgraded.¡¯

    ng!

    As if chains that barred his memories from being unsealed were removed, a huge portion of his memories were gradually brought to light as the fog that covered those memories slowly dissipated, stopping at a certain point where only 1/3 of his memories were left sealed.

    He closed his eyes and organized the new information he received from his unsealed memories, opening them an hourter with his eyes brimming with determination as his n to bing a God-tier existence became more solid.

    Ding!

    ¡°Eh?¡± It was a surprise to Aurus that he would hear a notification sound after doing nothing to the system. Nheless, since a notification sound popped up, something happened right?

    Aurus called up the notification log, to which a holographic screen appeared in front of his current body as a branch. He read the line that was on the most bottom of the notification log and became confused in an instant.

    ¡®The Soul Enchantment system has been unlocked due to the user¡¯s soul power bing stronger.¡¯

    ¡°Soul Enchantment System?¡±

    ¡°Eh?¡±

    ¡ª¡ª¨C

    [1] Just a refresher, Artifux (plural Artifixes) are artificial beings created by God-tier existences as a sort of helper.

 Chapter 88: Getting It Over With

    Chapter 88: Getting It Over With

    ¡°Soul Enchantment System¡­¡± Aurus could not help but look at thest line on the notification log with intense confusion. Although he remembered quite vividly in his memories that the Equipment system and its variants existed within ISE, whenever he tried to recall memories regarding the Soul Enchantment System he received, he can only remember a hazy and vague memory of it, the most vivid of which being it existed within the game.

    Letting out an inward sigh, Aurus muttered to himself, ¡°Well then, let¡¯s see what I can do with this new feature.¡±

    ¡°How do I ess it¡­Open Soul Enchantment System?¡±

    Ding!

    After hearing the magic wordse out of Aurus¡¯ nonexistent mouth, a screen that was incredibly simr to the screen used by the Existence Evolution System¡¯s OS, appeared in front of his field of vision.

    ________

    [Soul Enchantment System]

    Soul Power: 4

    ¡ª¡ª¨C

    Soul Sigils:

    [Rank 0 ¡ª Sigils of Tempering] ¨C 0/3

    [Rank 1 ¡ª ???? ?? ??????] ¨C Needs the Sigils of Tempering to be unlocked

    ________

    In an instant, Aurus was able to pinpoint two things that he needed to ask the system about. ¡°System, what is Soul Power and what are Soul Sigils?¡±

    Ding!

    Without missing a beat, a screen appeared in front of the Soul Enchantment System¡¯s interface, containing information regarding the two things that Aurus asked about.

    ¡®Soul Power is the power of the being¡¯s soul, shown in terms of value. A normal Animate would have 10 points of Soul Power, whereas a C-grade Inanimate would have 1 point of Soul Power, with it being increased by 1 for every evolution it goes through.¡¯

    ¡®Having a high amount of Soul Power would allow the being to have greater control and knowledge over their bodies. Not only that, it would allow them to be stronger in terms of stats, damage, and so on.¡¯

    ¡®Soul Sigils are runes carved onto the being¡¯s soul, allowing the being¡¯s soul to be baptized by the worldly energy, allowing the soul to be stronger without the need for Tempering or Ascension skills rted to the soul, which are only essible to Animates.¡¯

    ¡®Once a certain Rank of Soul Sigils arepleted, they would create a resonance effect that would boost the soul¡¯s power even further, and even be a pathway to unlocking a greater Rank of Soul Sigils.¡¯

    Even though Aurus read the information on the screen multiple times, he could still not grasp his head around it. In the end, he said to himself, ¡°I¡¯ll have to experiment with this system in the future.¡±

    After closing the interface to the Soul Enchantment System, he focused back on the white energy that covered each and every Anima on his body. Although he knew what Flux was thanks to the system exining it before his evolution, he did not know what its purpose was. So he asked, ¡°System, what is Flux?¡±

    Ding!

    Just like a while ago, a screen filled to the brim with information regarding the thing Aurus asked about, appeared in front of his field of vision.

    ¡®Flux is a type of energy that is neither from the environment like world energy, nor is it from within like Spirit Points (SP). Flux is something emanated from Anima that binds them together and allows them to do things that are normally impossible for a normal branch or sapling can do.¡¯

    ¡®Once tempered enough to the level of being controlled, it could be used as a weapon, or a shield, or anything that the user chooses it to be.¡¯

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡± Aurus pondered about the words written on the screen for a short while. He had a hunch that this Flux thing would surely be extremely important to something that would happen to him, but he did not know where it would be important.

    Nheless, with the allure of the Flux Equipment system, hemitted the phrase ¡®Tempering the Flux¡¯ to memory. He had no idea how to do just that, but he had a feeling that it was located within the skills he obtained from evolving.

    He opened up the skill screen and looked at the skill that was the most out of ce whenpared to other Flux based skills, [Nine Flux Transformation].

    ¡°Identify [Nine Flux Transformation].¡±

    Ding!

    ________

    [Nine Flux Transformation] (Level 1/10)

    Grade: Unknown

    Flux, an energy manifested from the Animas of a Spiritas, is something that holds extreme power once one peers into its intricacies and tempers it to a great extent.

    This skill allows the user to temper the Flux covering their bodies, baptizing them with the worldly energy of the environment and the Spirit Points from within, letting them evolve into a substance that bes a myriad of colors and possibilities.

    > Current Flux Rank: White (Rank 0)

    > Requirement to upgrade Flux Rank: 100 SP and 1000 Wind energy particles

    Note: Only when the Flux Rank bes Rank 1 will the user have the freedom to create Flux Weapons and Armors.

    ________

    ¡°Hmm¡­although it doesn¡¯t say it from its name, it seems that my species still affects my skills, being inclined towards the Wind element no matter what,¡± Aurus muttered to himself as he looked at the requirement needed to upgrade the Flux covering his body.

    With his Anima Creation at X-grade, he already had over 2000 SP, which meant that he had twenty times the amount of SP needed to upgrade the Flux covering his body. Nheless, he would still have to absorb 1000 Wind energy particles, which is not really a problem due to the two passive skills he evolved to X-grade before evolving to S-grade.

    Deciding that he would take a look at the other skills he obtainedter, Aurus activated [Tempest Levitation] before heading out of the secluded room he was in for almost two weeks. He flew outside the Sparring Tower where his secluded room was and looked at the surroundings, letting out a sigh of contentment afterwards. ¡°Ahh¡­nothing much has changed after my seclusion.¡±

    While looking at the small ecosystem of the Tempest Branch Alliance, even going so far as to travel around it, a past memory crept up on the surface of Aurus¡¯ mind and made him stop in his tracks. He closed his sense of vision for a bit before opening it once again, radiating an aura of firm determination while muttering to himself, ¡°I¡¯ve dyed this for a pretty long while now. With my current stats, I¡¯m pretty sure that I can kill that being in just one shot.¡±

    ¡°I can also use the time during my journey towards that ce to experiment with the new skills and features I obtained.¡±

    ¡°Alright, that settles it, I¡¯ll do that for now!¡±

    With the past memory sticking ever so tightly to the surface of his mind like glue, Aurus activated [Gale Hover], which increased his movement speed even more for a temporary time, before heading towards therge hall near the entrance of the Tempest Branch Alliance.

    Whoosh!

    Due to his multiple passive movement buffs and his X-grade movement skill, it only took Aurus a few minutes to head towards therge hall andnd on the ground before calling out, ¡°Horell, where are you?¡±

    Fwoosh!

    At the instant Aurus was finished with his question, a silhouette appeared in front of Aurus, which radiated an aura of cheerfulness around it. This silhouette was none other than Horell.

    ¡°I¡¯m right here, what do you need?¡± Horell maintained a cheerful tone as he examined Aurus from head to toe¡­well, from one end of the trunk to the other end of the trunk. ¡°Also, before I forget, congrattions on evolving to S-grade.¡±

    ¡°Thanks,¡± Aurus replied to Horell¡¯s congrattory remark as he radiated an aura of cheerfulness around him as well. ¡°Anyways, Horell, I want you to tell Herellia that I¡¯m going out for a bit. As for the location, that I cannot tell.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s fine, we all have our own little secrets we like to keep,¡± Horell radiated an aura of affirmation to Aurus¡¯ favor as he replied. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Aurus. Just do what you have to do, I¡¯ll tell Herellia that you went out for a bit.¡±

    Whoosh!

    Hearing the words of affirmation from Horell, Aurus activated [Tempest Levitation] as the aura of cheerfulness around him intensified by a few times. ¡°Thanks!¡±

    Whoosh!

    And just like that, Aurus disappeared from Horell¡¯s sight in the blink of an eye¡­well the amount of time it would take for an Animate to blink their eyes anyway.

    Looking at the silhouette of Aurus¡¯ body for a bit as it gradually disappeared, Horell let out a sigh as he sensed that Aurus was already far away from the alliance base.

    He looked at therge hall of the alliance base he resided in for a long time before muttering to himself, ¡°In the end, it seems I have to part ways with you, huh?¡±

    ¡°¡­All for the sake of greater knowledge.¡±

    After which, Horell¡¯s silhouette disappeared from therge hall. He was going to do what Aurus told him to do before he had to part ways with this alliance.

    ¡­

    While Horell wasmenting over the fact that his time of parting with the Tempest Branch Alliance was almosting, Aurus, on the other hand, was currently zooming towards a ce that he could not help but reminisce as he thought about how much he has gone through after leaving that ce.

    ¡°Although it¡¯s basically overkill for me to kill that thing, it would still give me Genesis Points. I might even head to its stronger counterpart and kill its boss as well before activating the Genesis Tree,¡± Aurus muttered to himself as the n he formted from before surfaced in his mind.

    No, this was not the n he had before evolving to S-grade, for this was the n of killing the boss of the Lesser Experience Haven!

 Chapter 89: Rank 1 Flux

    Chapter 89: Rank 1 Flux

    Tempest Cliff, within the base of the Tempest Branch Alliance.

    Within a secluded ce inside the small ecosystem found within the inner reaches of the Tempest Branch Alliance base, Herellia was currently engrossed in training her skills up to at least X grade in order to prepare for her inevitable evolution to an Animate. Although she could decide not to evolve into an Animate, the goddess that chose her wouldn¡¯t let her to do that, as her goal was to create a family that she would not regret. With that line of that thought, do you think branches can create families?

    Of course not.

    And that¡¯s why it was inevitable. Anyways, while Herellia was levelling up one of her skills, the sound of wind passing through her body alerted Herellia of a person entering the ce she was currently in, prompting her to open her sense of vision that was closed all this time to look at the person. Not long after, Herellia let out a sigh of relief, realizing who the person was in front of her.

    ¡°Oh, it¡¯s just you Horell. You scared me there.¡± Stopping the skill that she was just using and letting her SP regenerate back to its full capacity, Herellia could not help but let out a sigh of relief after knowing that the silhouette was someone familiar to her.

    ¡°I apologize for startling you, Herellia.¡± Horell released an apologetic aura, letting Herellia know that Horell was sincere in his apology. ¡°Nheless, I need to bring you a report from one of the executives of our alliance, the newest one at that.¡±

    ¡°Oh? Aurus? What about him?¡± Hearing the phrase ¡®newest executive¡¯e out of Horell¡¯s mouth, it was a given that Horell was talking about Aurus.

    ¡°Well¡­¡± Horell thought about what he was going to say for a bit. After a few seconds, Horell started to speak. ¡°Around sometime ago, Aurus finally got out of the Sparring Tower, sessfully evolving into an Inanimate of the S-grade. Instead of letting you know about his sessful evolution at the instant he got out, it seemed that he had other things to do that were of greater priority¡­which is why I¡¯m here to tell you that he is currently outside travelling in order to head towards a ce he dared not to tell where.¡±

    ¡°I knew he was bound to evolve to S-grade eventually.¡± Rather than being mad at Aurus not telling her that he evolved, she instead became ted at the fact that a strong mage at the level of Aurus at A-grade now became a mage that could be beyond Horell¡¯s strength at max level, or even be beyond her own strength. Add in the fact that they were both blessed with systems hence she did not worry about Aurus being away for a long time, or even if he did go missing for a long time, he would be able toe back unscathed.

    ¡°Thanks for letting me know that he evolved, Horell. I¡¯ll make sure to increase his authority after I finish what I have to do,¡± Herellia thanked Horell for telling her about the whereabouts of Aurus, albeit vague. After saying this, she expected Horell to leave the premises, but for some reason, Horell stayed around, radiating an aura of anxiety.

    Sensing this aura around Horell, Herellia asked, ¡°What¡¯s wrong, Horell? This isn¡¯t like you.¡±

    Hearing Herellia speak broke the thin line that barred Horell from doing what he wanted to do. He looked at Herellia for a short bit as he let out a long sigh of intense mncholy. A few secondster, he then said to Herellia¡­

    ¡°I¡¯ll be leaving the alliance.¡±

    ¡­

    While this was happening within the alliance base, Aurus, on the other hand, had finally crossed the barrier between the Tempest Cliff and the outside, letting him feel like an intense weight has been removed from his shoulders¡­or his branch body anyway.

    With his speed already reaching a speed that surpassed 3 kilometers per hour, it only took Aurus almost 2 hours to leave the Tempest Cliff, which is a drastic reduction in time used to traverse the same distance. He calcted, that at his current speed, it would only take him at most, another 6 hours or so to reach the Lesser Experience Haven so he can kill the boss of said experience haven.

    Now, with his current strength surpassing any normal S-grade at Level 1, one could not help but ask a one-word question.

    Why?

    This was because Aurus wanted to use all of the Genesis Points he could get his hands on to bolster the strength of his future Genesis Tree. As for what the functions of the Genesis Tree are, those shall be exined in the future.

    As he zoomed through his surroundings, Aurus noticed that he had a lot of spare time he could use to experiment with his newfound abilities as most Inanimates that got close to him would try to escape from someone like him, an S-grade Inanimate.

    ¡°Hmm¡­what should I experiment with first?¡± Aurus muttered to himself as he looked at the blue line that was ovepping over the ground, letting Aurus know the most efficient route towards his destination. After a while, a skill was brought up to the surface of his mind and decided that it was the one. ¡°If I don¡¯t upgrade it anyway, I wouldn¡¯t even be able to experiment with any of the other skills avable to me.¡±

    The skill that Aurus was referring to was [Nine Flux Transformation], which was a passive skill that tempered the Flux that covered each and every Anima making up his body. Although a few hours have passed since he checked the detail screen for the skill, he could still remember the requirements needed to upgrade the skill.

    ¡°100 SP and 1000 Wind energy particles huh¡­¡±

    And so, while he was flying towards the Lesser Experience Haven, he used his heightened sense for Wind energy particles to manipte the Wind energy particles in his current surroundings before manipting them to cluster over his head as they umted towards a certain point. After seeing that the cluster was dense enough, he then willed the particles to enter his body.

    Ding!

    ¡°Hm? A notification?¡± Aurus did not expect a notification toe up at this time. Nheless, hemanded the system to bring up a screen regarding thetest notification.

    ¡®1000 Wind energy particles have been umted. Would you like to infuse your Flux with 100 SP to upgrade it to Rank 1?¡¯

    ¡°Is my affinity for Wind energy really that perverse?¡± Aurus never realized that his affinity for Wind had reached a great level after leveling both his elemental affinity and Wind blessing skill to X-grade. But Aurus knew that he was still aiming to be a God-tier existence as fast as possible, so he chose to infuse 100 SP into his Flux.

    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!

    All of a sudden, the Flux covering his body started to bubble up as they expanded to a size that made Aurus¡¯ body seemrger by two times. A few secondster, tinges of green could be seen on the Flux, which rapidly expanded to cover each and every particle of Flux on Aurus¡¯ body. This process continued on for 5 minutes beforeing to an end. After the upgrading process, the Flux that covered Aurus¡¯ body was now a extremely faint green. It was not a type of green that would make a person¡¯s eyes strain, but rather a soothing and rxing green to the eyes.

    Ding!

    With the upgrade done, another notification appeared on the screen Aurus brought up a while ago, telling him about the current properties of his Flux.

    ¡®Your Flux is now Rank 1. To upgrade it to Rank 2, you need to infuse 300 SP and 3000 Wind energy particles in order for it to happen.¡¯

    ¡®Please check the new properties of your Flux in the [Nine Flux Transformation] skill tab.¡¯

    Without dy, Aurus opened up the details regarding [Nine Flux Transformation] and was surprised that there was new information written regarding the current powers of his Flux. After skimming over it, he was dumbfounded at its properties.

    Ding!

    ________

    [Nine Flux Transformation] (Level 2/10)

    Grade: Unknown

    Flux, an energy manifested from the Animas of a Spiritas, is something that holds extreme power once one peers into its intricacies and tempers it to a great extent.

    This skill allows the user to temper the Flux covering their bodies, baptizing them with the worldly energy of the environment and the Spirit Points from within, letting them evolve into a substance that bes a myriad of colors and possibilities.

    > Current Flux Rank: Faint Green (Rank 1)

    ¨C For every point of Flux used in Weapon Creation: 10 points to Attack stat & 0.5% increase in damage

    ¨C For every point of Flux used in Armor Creation: 20 points to HP & 0.5% increase in damage reduction

    > Requirement to upgrade Flux Rank: 300 SP and 3000 Wind energy particles

    [Flux has reached the minimum requirements needed in order to be used for Weapon and Armor Creation.]

    ________

    ¡°Holy shit¡­¡± Aurus could not help but curse at the effects of the newly upgraded Flux. After reading the contents regarding Flux, he now had an idea as to how he would go about crafting his weapons. He knew that the more Flux he used in creating equipment, the better and more solid the equipment woulde out, but if he had a Flux and it was of an extremely high rank, how strong would he be?

    Although his nonexistent hands itched to craft a weapon to increase his damage right now, he knew that he only had limited amounts of Flux¡­which he did not know the upper limit. So, he called up his status screen.

    Ding!

    ¡°I can only hold 10 Flux at most huh¡­¡± Taking only a short nce at his status screen let Aurus know how much he could allocate to equipment creation at most. Of course, he knew that this limit could be increased since he could still remember the [Flux Vessel] skill that came about from him obtaining Flux. But with him being incredibly excited at the possibilities, Aurus could not hold himself back any further.

    ¡°[Flux Weapon Creation]!¡±

 Chapter 90: Staff No. 1

    Chapter 90: Staff No. 1

    Ding!

    Not long after shouting out the name of the skill, a screen appeared in front of him wherein a question was given to him.

    ¡®What type of weapon would you like to craft?¡¯

    Aurus, being incredibly unfamiliar with the early game Equipment system, did not know how to answer this as he was clueless as to how he was going to proceed. He tried saying the word ¡®Staff¡¯ as an answer since he was a mage and he needed a staff to bolster his prowess, but the system did not ept it as an answer.

    With that being invalid, Aurus questioned the system as to what his choices were. A few secondster, a screen appeared in front of the screen where the question was, answering Aurus¡¯ worries.

    ¡®In creating a weapon, there are only two main choices which branch out into morerger choicester on. These choices are Physical and Magical weapons.¡¯

    ¡®Physical weapons have a special property wherein other than the material used boosts the user¡¯s attack, it also boosts it by a certain amount after that, giving it a higher than normal attackpared to other weapons.¡¯

    ¡®Magical weapons on the other hand rely on the material used in order for the weapon¡¯s attack, but since they¡¯re magical weapons, they can absorb more energy from the environment to supplement the user¡¯s spells, hence they have a special property of reducing Cast Time by 10%. Note that the reduction in Cast Time is not fixed.¡¯

    ¡°To think that I have to start at something incredibly broad.¡± Aurus could not help but think that the system was some sort of basic intelligence that needed every opinion in order to proceed. Of course, he knew that that was not the case as he knew how flexible the system was. After mulling over it a bit more, he realized that the degree of freedom for weapon creation must be greater than what he thought, stemming from the fact that he would start from an extremely broad category before getting more specific.

    With him reading up on the special properties of both choices, Aurus chose to craft a Magical weapon as he knew that a faster Cast Time would let him have an edge over other beings. Although he could already cast spells in a short time, he knew that once he became an Animate, even a millisecond would be the thread dividing life and death.

    With the first question answered, the question on the screen changed into another one, slightly more specific than the previous one.

    ¡®What type of Magical weapon do you want to craft?¡¯

    Although a single word was added to the question, the question now leaned towards a single category rather than all categories. Aurus had a hunch that it was now the time to designate the shape of the Magical weapon he wanted, so he answered with a single word.

    ¡°Staff.¡±

    Whoosh!

    With the question on the screen being changed once more, Aurus¡¯ suspicions were proved correct. He then looked at the next question on the screen, asking him how much Flux was going to be used in creating the weapon. On the far right of the question, there was a parentheses that told him he could only use 3 Flux at most, so he chose to use 3.

    Ding!

    ¡®3 Flux has been deducted from your body.¡¯

    In an instant, the faint green energy covering each and every Anima on his body slightly dimmed down, showing that part of his Flux was removed. Not long after, multiple threads of worldly energy, as well threads of SP within his body, started to envelop the Flux on his body and make it as vibrant as it previously was.

    From this, Aurus now knew how Flux regenerated, which actually regenerated at a pretty fast rate. He also now had a hunch as to what levelling the creation skills would give him, which could possibly be a higher limit on the amount of Flux he could use.

    With Aurus confirming that he was going to use 3 Flux on his Magical weapon, a screen appeared not long after beside the screen that held the question, revealing an extremely rough blueprint of a blunt stick, which could be manipted with Aurus¡¯ thoughts.

    ¡°Isn¡¯t this a little too crude?¡± Aurus could not help but ask as he manipted the blueprint bit by bit as he continued to zoom towards the Lesser Experience Haven.

    He willed the top end of the stick to curve downwards in an upside down U shape as he willed almost of the Flux to be in the middle of this upside down U, only leaving the minimum amount necessary to create the stick. With a few more touches here and there, Aurus was satisfied with the look of his soon to be made weapon.

    Whoosh!

    As Aurus confirmed his choices on the design aspects of the blueprint, the question on the screen beside the blueprint changed, asking Aurus, ¡®Are you sure you want to craft this weapon?¡¯

    Without any shred of doubt whatsoever, Aurus answered with a firm and determined yes.

    Ding!

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    A few secondster, both screens disappeared in front of Aurus¡¯ field of vision as a slightlyrge ball of faint green Flux appeared in front of his vision, gradually morphing into a shape that he could not be unfamiliar with.

    It was his new Magical weapon!

    Bit by bit, the Flux making up the weapon started to solidify as the colors making up the weapon diversified into green, and brown, and other dazzling colors that would catch a person¡¯s eye.

    Surprisingly, even though Aurus was still moving towards the Lesser Experience Haven, the currently morphing weapon maintained a fixed distance in front of Aurus. Although it seemed to only be a small tidbit that would reduce his burdens, it was nheless appreciated by him.

    A few minutes pass by and a notification sound was heard as rays of light radiated from the weapon in front of Aurus, which was nowplete from top to bottom.

    ¡®What would you like to name the weapon?¡¯

    Looking at the question that popped up within his mind through the system, Aurus looked at the staff for a bit before replying with, ¡°Staff No. 1.¡±

    Whoosh!

    As if his words carried weight, an intangible yet visible stream of energy gradually enveloped the staff in front of him before disappearing altogether not long after. Simultaneously, the staff gradually got closer to Aurus before dissipating into thin air as it became strands of energy that entered Aurus¡¯ body.

    Ding!

    ¡®Staff No. 1 has been created. To use the weapon, please say the phrase ¡®Summon Weapon¡¯.¡¯

    ¡®To dismantle the weapon, please say the phrase ¡®Dismantle Weapon¡¯. To examine the weapon¡¯s properties, please say the phrase ¡®Examine Weapon¡¯.¡¯

    Hearing these words from the system resound throughout his mind, Aurus decided to check out the properties of the weapon he just made.

    ¡°Examine Weapon.¡±

    Ding!

    ________

    Staff No. 1 (Magical)

    Grade: Inanimate¡ªNormal

    ¡ª¡ª¨C

    Attack + 30

    Damage + 1.5%

    Cast Time ¨C 10%

    ¡ª¡ª¨C

    A staff made out of the Flux from a Spiritas, although it is made out of extremely basic and crude material, it can still get the job done, bolstering the user¡¯s magical properties by a small extent. It is also minimalistic yet elegant in design, which is due to the taste of the crafter.

    ________

    Looking at the properties of the weapon he just made, he knew that he had three things to prioritize while heading towards the Lesser Experience Haven and even after that! What are those three things? Raise [Flux Vessel], raise [Flux Weapon Creation], and upgrade Flux!

    Being somewhat discontent with the properties of his newly made weapon, Aurus decided to do one of the three things that could be done in the shortest amount of time, which was to upgrade his Flux to a higher rank!

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    While following the blue line that would lead to the Lesser Experience Haven, he used his affinity for Wind to the fullest, manipting all of the Wind energy particles within his surroundings to clump up into a ball that hovered over his body.

    Within seconds, the size of the ball increased to the length of half of Aurus¡¯ body, extremely dense and filled to the brim with Wind energy particles at every nook and cranny within the ball.

    He then willed a part of the Wind energy particles making up the ball to enter his body, prompting a notification screen to appear in front of his field of vision not long after.

    Ding!

    ¡®3000 Wind energy particles have been umted. Would you like to infuse your Flux with 300 SP in order to upgrade it to Rank 2?¡¯

    ¡°Yes!¡± How could he say no to this question? With his goal being to increase the rank of his Flux, it would be extremely ironic if he said no.

    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!

    Just like before, the Flux covering his body expanded to a size greater than Aurus¡¯ body as the green aspect of the Flux slightly became more vibrant than before, consuming around the same amount of time needed for Aurus to upgrade his Flux from Rank 0 to Rank 1.

    Ding!

    ¡®Your Flux is now Rank 2, to upgrade it to Rank 3, you need 500 SP and 5000 Wind energy particles in order for it to happen.¡¯

    Whoosh!

    He then willed another part of the Wind energy particles making up the ball to enter his body, easily fulfilling the Wind energy particle requirement needed to upgrade his Flux to Rank 3. With him infusing his Flux with 500 SP, it was not weird for it to reach Rank 3 a few minutester.

    He then repeated this process a couple more times, making the Flux covering his body taking on a shade of vibrant green which from afar made him look like a big branch that was covered with a lot of moss.

    Ding!

    ¡®Your Flux is now Rank 5, to upgrade it to Rank 6, you need 2500 SP and 25000 Wind energy particles in order for it to happen.¡¯

    ¡°I guess I¡¯ll stop here for now,¡± Aurus said as he looked at the SP requirement needed to upgrade his Flux. With that much SP, he could already cast the [Spirit Clone] skill given to him by Kevin, which would allow him to somewhat escape the danger that would befall his body. It would only need him to raise his Anima Creation skill to its MAX level in order for that to happen to be honest. But with him focusing on Flux in the meantime, it would probably be dyed for a while.

    ¡°Identify [Nine Flux Transformation].¡± With his nonexistent eyes gleaming with excitement, Aurus looked at the screen that detailed the specific effects of the skill.

    Ding!

    ________

    [Nine Flux Transformation] (Level 6/10)

    Grade: Unknown

    Flux, an energy manifested from the Animas of a Spiritas, is something that holds extreme power once one peers into its intricacies and tempers it to a great extent.

    This skill allows the user to temper the Flux covering their bodies, baptizing them with the worldly energy of the environment and the Spirit Points from within, letting them evolve into a substance that bes a myriad of colors and possibilities.

    > Current Flux Rank: Nature Green (Rank 5)

    ¨C For every point of Flux used in Weapon Creation: 30 points to Attack stat & 1.5% increase in damage

    ¨C For every point of Flux used in Armor Creation: 60 points to HP & 1.5% increase in damage reduction

    > Requirement to upgrade Flux Rank: 2500 SP and 25000 Wind energy particles

    [Flux has long exceeded the minimum requirements for Equipment creation. When used in creating or enhancing equipment, there is a small chance for special properties to appear.]

    ________

 Chapter 91: Getting Over It

    Chapter 91: Getting Over It

    While Aurus was savoring the stronger effects of his Flux after upgrading it to Rank 5¡­

    Within the Tempest Cliff, there existed a ce that boasted such dense and pure Wind energy that one would definitely be minced to shreds once one stepped a single foot into it. This ce is also known by multiple Animates as the core of the Tempest Cliff.

    Currently, this Wind energy scattered throughout this core was being absorbed by a wolf that seemed to be made out of rock yet wasn¡¯t. Its fur was a shade of gray that could let it blend with other rocks in the surroundings, while its structure gave others a sense of sturdiness that would never falter in any situation.

    This wolf was Chonk, who was currently absorbing the power of the core of the Tempest Cliff in order to master his Tempering skill and ascend to a Rank 1 ss, his lifelong dream.

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    Bit by bit, the torrential and powerful Wind energy particles that made up the core was gradually being broken down into smaller and less powerful Wind energy particles that could be easily absorbed by Chonk¡¯s body. Nheless, the purity of the Wind energy was still preserved all throughout this process, allowing Chonk to glean upon the intricacies making up the Wind energy particles.

    ¡°Wind is something that exists all throughout our surroundings, even within the depths of water,¡± Chonk muttered to himself as a frown appeared on his face. ¡°I understand this statement to the point where I can say that if I imed second over the mastery of the essence of Wind, no one would im first!¡±

    ¡°But why is it that my [Tempest Genesis Rebirth] has not been mastered topletion yet? Why does it seem that I am stillcking that certain thing?¡±

    After discovering the core of the Tempest Cliff over a week ago, he had cultivated near this core, absorbing the pure Wind energy particlesing out of it and allowing his body to be tempered by the same particles he was trying to understand.

    Up till now, he was still trying to find what he was missing in thepletion of his Tempering skill, only to be blocked at thest step. He had a vague feeling of what it is, but his body seemed to be subconsciously avoiding it.

    ¡°Wind¡­¡± Still wracking his brain over the matter, Chonk decided to focus on the word that his Tempering skill was based on. ¡°Wind¡­does it really exist everywhere? Aren¡¯t there times where one cannot feel the wind but one still knows it exists?¡±

    Bang!

    Following that train of thought, Chonk finally knew what he was missing. At that instant of enlightenment, his Tempering skill was mastered to 100% as a ray of light from up above started to shine down upon his body, gradually changing his structure into a stronger and sleeker form of a wolf.

    Indeed! He was now ascending to a Rank 1 ss!

    ¡­

    On the other hand, Aurus was still engrossed in the details of his newly upgraded Flux.

    After a while, he closed the screen and let out a long yet contented sigh as he muttered to himself, ¡°Man¡­Flux is definitely a good thing.¡±

    As he muttered this, he could not help but look at the Flux that covered his body, radiating a green light that was more vibrant than before. Not only that, it also gave Aurus a feeling offortability under the cover of this Flux. After thinking about howfortable his Flux was after being upgraded to Rank 5, he could not help but be disappointed that he could not reach the maximum rank avable for his Flux.

    ¡°Haah¡­I¡¯ll just upgrade my Flux once I max [Transcendent Vitality Anima Creation]. I hope I have enough SP to max it to Rank 9.¡±

    Ding!

    ¡°Eh?¡± All of a sudden, Aurus heard a notification sound resound throughout his mind, confusing him greatly as he did not know what he did in order to gain such a sound.

    Deciding that it was too tiring to read words on a screen for now, hemanded the system to read thetest notification that popped up.

    ¡®[Flux Vessel] and [Flux Weapon Creation] have leveled up.¡¯

    ¡°Eh?¡± Hearing the skills that he wanted to level up be leveled up made Aurus speechless for a bit as he did not know what he did to gain experience in order for those skills to level up.

    He thought about it for a bit and hypothesized that having a fully crafted weapon on him allowed his Weapon Creation skill to passively gain experience, while using Flux allowed his Flux Storage skill to gain experience¡­though its level up was dyed for some reason.

    Since all he had was time at this moment, when his Weapon Creation skill would level upter along his journey, that alone was enough to prove his hypothesis greatly.

    ¡°You know what? I¡¯ve already wasted enough time already experimenting with Flux.¡± Realizing that he has wasted quite a considerable amount of time while travelling towards the Lesser Experience Haven, Aurus could not help but say.

    ¡°Time to speed my journey up a bit.¡±

    ¡°[Supreme Tempest Burst]!¡±

    Whoosh!

    At that instant, his movement speed, which was already fast for someone at S-grade, was boosted by twofold, allowing him to move at an incredibly fast 9 kilometers per hour! Unfortunately, this buff would onlyst for a minute before disappearing.

    [Supreme Tempest Burst], was the better version of [Tempest Burst] which Aurus was extremely fond of using. Since Aurus evolved his movement skill to X-grade, it was natural that the supplementary skill that came with it evolved into a better version as well.

    ¡°[Void Gale Spirit Shift]!¡±

    Fwoosh!

    After muttering another skill¡¯s name out loud, Aurus disappeared in an instant from where he was, only appearing at a ce 6 kilometers away from where he previously was a few secondster. Due to the skill being X-grade, Aurus was able to teleport at most 2 kilometers away from his original ce in an instant. But with [Supreme Tempest Burst] still being in effect, this distance was boosted twofold as well, allowing the distance between Aurus and the Lesser Experience Haven to be only around 7 kilometers left!

    ¡°Fuck. I forgot to activate [Gale Hover].¡±

    ¡­

    And so, after around 3 more hours or so, with him activating [Gale Hover] and other movement speed boosting skills along the way, Aurus was now at the outskirts of the Lesser Experience Haven. As he entered the ce, he could not help but look around and feel that he hade a long way from being a measly C-grade Inanimate.

    ¡°How long has it been since I left this ce¡­oh wait. Inanimates don¡¯t have a sense of time¡­so around 3 months, I guess?¡±

    Continuing to traverse towards the center of the Lesser Experience Haven, with him not suppressing his aura, he unconsciously made the C-grade and B-grade Inanimates that he hovered above through along the way shudder in fear under the power of his aura¡­if one knew how such beings that had weak souls shudder anyway.

    ¡°Who dares to trespass my domain?¡± Fortunately, with Aurus not suppressing his aura, he was able to find the being that he was going to hunt as that being roared out loud, its voice being heard throughout the boundaries of the experience haven.

    ¡°Summon Weapon.¡±

    Whoosh!

    While hovering in ce, listening to the words of the being that he wanted to hunt, his Magical weapon named Staff No. 1 appeared in front of his body, radiating an energy that resonated with the aura he radiated out.

    Not long after that, he increased the altitude of his flight to a height of a few kilometers, allowing him to look at the entirety of the Lesser Experience Haven. A few secondster, he was able to see the being that roared out a while ago.

    ¡°Ah, there you are,¡± Aurus softly said. He looked at the being that was a mix between a Sapling and Branch Formosus, yet it was not a Spiritas like him. It seemed like a being that was conflicted at what path it was going to choose after evolving to A-grade, hence it chose to traverse both, only to fail midway.

    ¡°Identify.¡± Then again, Aurus was not in a position to think about other beings¡¯ evolution paths as the only goal he had in his second life was to be a God-tier existence again.

    Ding!

    ________

    [Arlithos (Lord of the Lesser Experience Haven)]

    Level: 10/10

    Species: Branch Formivitalis Naturalii

    Existence Level: Inanimate (A)

    [HP]: 300/300

    [SP]: 75/75

    Stats:

    [Tenacity]: 55

    [Nature]: 43

    [Spirit]: 62

    ________

    Looking at the health of the being that he was about to kill, he could not help but have second thoughts as to what skill he was going to use to kill such a weak being like that. At first, he decided that the first form of the [Spirit Sword of Seven Hells] would be enough to honor its presence, but now that he got a closer look at its stats, it seemed that it would be honoring the being too much.

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    Infusing a small part of his SP into his Spell Core, a crude magic circle was formed at a fast speed thanks to the special effect of Staff No. 1.

    ¡°I guess [Spirit Wind Bolt] is enough.¡±

    Whoosh!

    Haphazardly aiming it at the being named Arlithos, the energy bolt made out of Wind energy particles charged towards the being at a speed that could be said to be an instant for an Inanimate due to it travelling at a speed 60 times faster than Aurus¡¯ movement speed.

    Bang!

    The being did not even notice an energy bolt aiming for its body due to its sheer speed, only realizing it once the bolt pierced through its body. With its vitality hastily being sapped away at every second, it tried to find the being that shot the energy bolt that would inevitably cease it from evolving any further.

    It only took a second for the being to look up as the aura it sensed came from above it, looking at Aurus who nonchntly looked at it with slight disdain. Letting a softugh inwardly, it muttered, ¡°I guess¡­my journey¡­ends here.¡±

    Not muchter, the vitality circting throughout the being was finally gone, letting the being¡¯s body dissipate off into thin air, only leaving Life and Will points as a remnant of its presence.

    Ding!

    Aurus looked at the ce where the being dissipated for a short bit, only to have his attention be ced onto the notification screen that appeared in front of his field of vision not long after. He then skimmed through the notifications, only to exim in surprise, ¡°You can actually get that from killing bosses?!¡±

    ¡®3 Genesis Points have been obtained from killing Arlithos, the Lord of the Lesser Experience Haven.¡¯

    ¡®1 OS Point has been obtained from killing Arlithos, the Lord of the Lesser Experience Haven.¡¯

 Chapter 92: Just Endure

    Chapter 92: Just Endure

    Within the Celestial ne, inside a white cube that was perpetually hovering on the vast void of space.

    At the moment, Kurohana was paying close attention to the happenings after her little idea, wherein a few minutes for her was already around half a day for the being within the orb, in this case Aurus.

    It only took around 30 seconds for the expression on Kurohana¡¯s face to turn into a smile as her idea was a great sess. Although she could not help but feel disappointed that Aurus did not touch the new feature he could ess and experiment, she knew that with what she did, Aurus would eventually touch it, allowing him to be a catalyst at an even faster rate.

    ¡°Although this idea was done on a whim, I¡¯m surprised that the first part actually worked,¡± Kurohana muttered to herself, satisfied with the effects of her idea. Now, what was her idea, you might ask.

    Well that idea was made up of two parts, the first part was that she would manipte a certainw that was stronger than hers to coerce Aurus to use his OS Point to unseal another part of his memory which she sealed, as a backdrop to the second part of her idea so Aurus would not have any fishy thoughts on the emergence of said second part.

    As for the second part, it was something Aurus has touched already, the Soul Enchantment System! Indeed, this feature added to Aurus¡¯ already existing Existence Evolution System was made out of a whim in order to increase the chances of Aurus being used as a weapon material.

    ¡°If I remember the purpose of the system correctly, once Aurus uses the system, his soul will be developed until it reaches an extent where it exudes an unconsciously strong aura that would entice multiple humans to grab him and use him as the core material of a weapon!¡± Remembering the true purpose of the system, Kurohana could not help but chuckle and expect the day where Aurus is used as material.

    ¡°Manipting a small portion of thatw is definitely worth it, no matter what!¡± Her chuckle intensified to the extent where her chuckle was now a cackle that resonated throughout the insides of the white cube. Fortunately, only she could hear that loud cackle.

    Thew that she manipted was not just anyw that was on par with thew that she was trying to master, but rather, it was aw far stronger than hers, an Immortal Verdict [1]! As for which Immortal Verdict it was, only the Immortal Verdict of Fate could manipte the choices of a being that much!

    An Immortal Verdict is aw that has been mastered to the point where the wielder of saidw can even control otherws without breaking a sweat. As for the number of Immortal Verdicts that existed within the Celestial ne, only 8 existed from its birth up till now!

    Ring! Ring! Ring!

    ¡°Hm?¡± Hearing a ringing sounding from the orb, Kurohana¡¯s chuckle was stopped to an abrupt halt, reced with her eyebrow being raised as she epted a call, the only reason why the orb she made would ring.

    Whoosh!

    In an instant, the image of Aurus traversing the Lesser Experience Haven was reced with the view of a peaceful shore, a cheerful and innocent-looking girl around the ages of 13 to 15 with her hair the color of the sea being in the middle.

    Instantly recognizing the girl that called her, Kurohanaposed her inwardly and lightly smiled as she took the initiative to start the conversation. ¡°Neri, how are you~? What made you call your big sister~?¡±

    Rather than answer with a smile on her face, Neri, who was the girl on the orb, slightly frowned as her cheeks puffed up while replying, ¡°Big Sis Kurohana, why didn¡¯t you ask for my permission first if you were going to manipte the flow of events for a being? Not only that, you not only manipted myw, but you skipped myw altogether and messed with Big Sis Phatia¡¯sw!¡±

    Kurohana was stunned for a bit after hearing the incessant amount of wordsing out of Neri¡¯s mouth. She also realized that what she did was on a whim, not even obtaining the permission of the gods who wielded thews she used on Aurus. It was Neri¡¯s full right to get angry at her since Neri was the goddess of the Law of Natural Flow.

    As for Big Sis Phatia that Neri mentioned, she was the wielder of the greaterw that Kurohana manipted, the Wielder of the Immortal Verdict of Fate.

    Finally realizing the amount of trouble she was going to end up with, Kurohana could not help but have a sad expression on her face as she replied, ¡°Neri, I truly apologize for not asking for your permission! It was just that I was almost close to procuring a great material for a new weapon I was going to make, and I only needed a little bit of fate to make it happen!¡±

    Neri, knowing fully well that her Big Sis Kurohana was one of the most renowned craftspeople within the Celestial ne, hastily understood the reason why Kurohana did not bother asking for her permission due to its suddenness, plus adding the fact that Kurohana¡¯s words were sincere to her made her expression be moreforting as she replied, ¡°Ahh¡­if that¡¯s the case, then Big Sis Kurohana is forgiven! I just hope that next time you manipte fate, you should at least notify us that you¡¯re going to do that so we won¡¯t mind it! Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯ll exin the situation to Big Sis Phatia as well~!¡±

    Hearing that Neri was going to help remove some of theints she was going to get after what she has done, Kurohana could not help but let out a sigh of relief as she smiled once more. ¡°Thank you Neri~! Your Big Sis is definitely going to make you an incredibly cute weapon for free~!¡±

    ¡°Really?!¡± Neri could not help but exim due to her love for cute stuff. ¡°Thank you so so much Big Sis!¡±

    After which, Neri said her goodbyes to Kurohana before hanging the call up. Kurohana could not help but let out a sigh from Neri¡¯s deal. Why? She knew that Neri was not the only god that had theirw manipted with.

    Ring! Ring! Ring!

    A few seconds after Neri¡¯s call ended, another god called Kurohana up, to which she had no choice but to answer the call.

    Whoosh!

    At the next instant after epting the call, an extremely skinny old man with its skin color being a pale gray, appeared within the orb, giving Kurohana the shivers for a short bit.

    Of course, with her rtionship with the god in front of her not being that close, and with the fact that this god had greater control over their ownw, Kurohana could not help but be respectful as she greeted, ¡°How do you do, God Animus.¡±

    ¡°Hm,¡± Animus replied with a gentle yet purposeful grunt. ¡°You know why I called you, right?¡±

    ¡°Yes, and I apologize for that.¡± Kurohana could only let out a sigh.

    Animus was known as the God governing over the Law of the Soul, and he was pretty damn good at governing over thisw. Of course, the reason why Animus called Kurohana was due to her using the Law of the Soul on the Soul Enchantment System she made.

    ¡°As long as you admit your mistakes, it¡¯s fine.¡± In an instant, Animus¡¯ voice became gentler to the ears. He then waved his right hand for a bit before clicking his tongue. ¡°Then again, your control over the Law of the Soul needs some work. As the Goddess of Reincarnation, shouldn¡¯t you at least have some basic control over souls?¡±

    Kurohana could only stay silent as Animus continued to ramble on the call.

    ¡°As for the Soul Enchantment System you made, hmm¡­Soul Sigils eh? Definitely an interesting way to bolster the strength of a soul. You don¡¯t mind if I use this in the future, right?¡±

    ¡°I-I don¡¯t mind at all,¡± With Animus¡¯ strength being greater than her, Kurohana could onlyply.

    ¡°Well, that¡¯s all I have to say. Next time you try to manipte another god¡¯sw, you should notify them, okay?¡± With this as hisst statement, Animus finally ended the call with Kurohana.

    After the call with Animus ended, another god showed up at the instant the orb was not on call, revealing an extremely buff man that could be said to have the perfect body any woman would die to look for. As for Kurohana, she was indifferent to the man¡¯s body, but his strength was not something tough at due to the man¡¯s control over the Law of Improvement.

    ¡°How do you do, God Surp,¡± Kurohana respectfully greeted.

    ¡°You know what you did, right?¡± Surp did not greet her back, instead initiating the conversation with a question.

    ¡°Yes.¡± This was the only answer Kurohana could say.

    ¡°Although I respect you as a great craftswoman, you created a system that was not approved by me! I can ept the first system you made since you asked for permission at the instant you thought it up, but for this one, you did not even bother to ask me!¡±

    ¡°I¡ª¡± Kurohana tried to refute Surp¡¯s statement, only to be interrupted by him.

    ¡°No buts. Aspensation for not asking for my permission on creating another system, you shall make me a greatsword of the False Archaic grade at the very least, understand?¡±

    ¡°I¡­haah. I understand.¡± Seeing that thepensation was only for her to make a weapon of the False Archaic grade which she could craft within 10 minutes, she decided it was better for her to ept his terms.

    ¡°Good, I¡¯ll be waiting for it then.¡± After hearing Kurohana¡¯s confirmation, Surp¡¯s strict tone loosened up a bit before ending the call with her. It was only after Surp¡¯s call did Kurohana obtain her peace.

    ¡°Haah¡­one was understanding, one wanted to teach me, and one wanted to extort me. The first two gods were fine but I should really get stronger.¡± Kurohana let out a sigh as she slumped down on her chair, reminding herself to ask for the other gods¡¯ permission next time she was going to do something like this.

    Whoosh!

    All of a sudden, the sound of wind breezing could be heard from Kurohana¡¯s behind, making Kurohana stiffen up as she gradually turned her head around. Once her head was fully turned to look behind her, she could see a body that could be said to be adequately beautiful at most, but the face connected to the body was a face that could make whole continents fight for. Not only that, the aura radiating out of the body was an extremely mysterious aura, but with Kurohana¡¯s senses, she was incredibly familiar with this aura.

    ¡°B-B-B-Big Sis Phatia! W-W-What are you doing here?¡±

    ¡ª¡ª¨C

    [1] First mentioned in Chapter 57.

 Chapter 93: Blessings from a God

    Chapter 93: Blessings from a God

    ¡°B-B-B-Big Sis Phatia! W-What are you doing here?¡± With her head frozen in ce, Kurohana stammered at the utter disbelief she felt when she saw the goddess she didn¡¯t want to see the most right now.

    As one of the Eight Zenith Immortals of the Celestial ne that could wield an Immortal Verdict, Phatia was known as one of the greatest Immortal Verdict Wielders that have shown great mastery over their Immortal Verdict throughout these trillions of years, only losing out to Gaea, the current Wielder of the Immortal Verdict of Life, gainingplete mastery over it.

    Normally, one would think that being an Immortal Verdict Wielder, one would be incredibly busy due to the amount ofws under said Immortal Verdict, but in fact, that waspletely false. It was because they have control over an Immortal Verdict that they could create better Artifixes that have greater intelligence thatpletely stump over the Artifixes created by the Greater Gods, with Kurohana being one, that they could just give their Artifixes the work they need to do and they could wholeheartedly focus on whatever they want.

    Phatia, who continued to stand where she stood while radiating that ever mysterious aura, finally opened her mouth a minute after Kurohana¡¯s question.

    ¡°You have wasted my time. You know what you did.¡±

    ¡°I admit to manipting a small part of your Immortal Verdict, but isn¡¯t this a bit too harsh?¡± Kurohana, knowing fully well that she could not escape what would happen next, decided to ask her way out towards a more lenient punishment.

    ¡°It¡¯s quite a miracle that the part you manipted was able to merge back with the Immortal Verdict I wielded. If it were not for your higher sess rate when manipting my Immortal Verdict due to our same alignment, the part you have manipted would definitely have be a Verdict Being that would definitely bring a big problem to many Greater and Lesser Gods,¡± Phatia replied in an indifferent and impartial tone, having the belief that her words arew.

    Andw it was, with Kurohana¡¯sw being under the Immortal Verdict of Fate. As long as it was a being that controlled aw under an Immortal Verdict, the Wielder of the Immortal Verdict would act as the boss of said being, their words being backed up by the two divine Transcendent Canons and the one true Primordial Decree.

    Kurohana could not help but look down at the white floor and bite her lips as she knew that the possibilities of what Phatia said were not slim. Not only that, she was also a victim of the chaos that a Verdict Being had brought in her youth.

    To her, a Verdict Being was a level of power beyond her, even if it was just a small part of an Immortal Verdict that had gained sentience. When faced in front of one, she knew that she could only break down and shed tears due to the fear she had umted.

    epting her fate (which is definitely not a pun), Kurohana stood up from the chair she made and disassembled it, only leaving the orb holding the image of Aurus currently fighting another boss of another ce. She let out a sigh and looked at the orb for a while before saying, ¡°Big Sis Phatia, what is my punishment?¡±

    Phatia looked at the orb that Kurohana looked at for a short bit before looking back at Kurohana. Since Kurohana did not try to resist from her punishment, Phatia decided to lessen it a bit, replying with, ¡°You must head to the Hall of Greater Divinity and ept 3 Primordial level missions that could out 20 God Sparks at the very least.¡±

    Hearing the words that came out of Phatia¡¯s mouth, Kurohana could not help but say in disbelief, ¡°At the very least, I¡¯d have toplete three 7 star Primordial level missions!¡±

    Within the Celestial ne, there were three Halls that presided over the gods, the Hall of Lesser Divinity that governed over the Lesser Gods, the Hall of Greater Divinity that governed over the Greater Gods, and the Hall of the Zenith Monarchs where the Eight Zenith Immortals and the Two Supreme Overseers were governed.

    These halls acted as a way of atoning for the sins that a God hasmitted, or as a way of obtaining resources that a God really needed due to the currency that could be used to exchange for resources, God Sparks.

    The only way to obtain God Sparks were through the missions, with Archaic level being the lowest, and Transcendent Deity level being the highest. These levels were even further divided into 9 sublevels, from 1 star to 9 stars.

    Although a Primordial level mission seemed extremely easy, with Kurohana needing to finish three 7 star missions of this level, she would definitely take a bit of time finishing it.

    With Phatia not saying anything else after the verdict of her punishment, Kurohana could only sigh and say, ¡°Let¡¯s go then.¡±

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    And just like that, in an instant, the two divine beings disappeared from the confines of the white cube, heading towards a certain direction in the vast expanse of space, towards the Hall of Greater Divinity.

    ¡­

    XXXX Continent, Seraph Kingdom.

    Ttang! Ttang! Ttang!

    As the mes from the furnace reach a horrifying height, the steel that was persistently being hammered by a great cksmith was gradually taking the shape of a de as a mage not far away from the cksmith was casting magic on a piece of aura that exuded an incredibly pure aura of Wind.

    Indeed, these two people were Kelsey and Dane, who after one night, were still not even halfway in making progress on thepletion of Magnus Tempestria, which could be said as their masterwork.

    Fsh! Fsh! Fsh!

    As bolts of energy that radiated multiple colors hit the Gale Dragon Wood that Dane affixed on the table quite securely, the resistance that the iplete soul was giving out gradually gave way, finally submitting to Dane after being hit for over a thousand times. This process took Dane around 14 hours, with most of it being used in replenishing his mana.

    ¡°Haha! Finally! I can now use the soul in this piece of wood to add the [Ignition] quality to Magnus Tempestria!¡± Late in the night, with the glee he felt over finally letting the soul be controlled, Daneughed quite loudly within the confines of Kelsey¡¯s smithy. Fortunately, it was quite soundproof from the outside.

    ¡°Aaaah! Dane! Why do you have to be so noisy at this time! I was almost finished with engraving the grooves on the de!¡± Kelsey, who was extremely focused on delicately engraving the grooves where elemental energy would be infused into, could not help but stop halfway and berate Dane for breaking her concentration.

    Whoosh!

    With a rift opening up over the table, a sharp knife fell from the rift,nding quite urately on Dane¡¯s hands as he started to carve the Gale Dragon Wood into the shape of a hilt where it would fit perfectly within the grip of the Ninth Prince¡¯s hand.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry for shouting but I can finally make this masterwork reach another level, for now we have a source of energy that we can use to ignite the weapon!¡± Dane said to Kelsey as an apology as he started to cut off bits and pieces off the Gale Dragon Wood.

    Clink!

    With her hands frozen in ce, Kelsey gradually turned her head to look at Dane with eyes filled with disbelief as she stammered, ¡°D-D-Did I just hear that c-correctly? M-Me? C-Crafting an Ignition weapon?¡±

    For Kelsey, it was definitely enough for her masterwork to be an Ignition weapon as only the extremely rich or the extremely strong could hold such a weapon. With a weapon like that only being eclipsed by an Evolving weapon, she could die without regrets after sessfully creating an Ignition weapon.

    ¡°Yeah, I hope you can hurry up with the groove engraving since I need to give this de to the Ninth Prince hopefully in the morning.¡± Taking into consideration the time they spent, Dane decided to limit their timeframe toter morning, which was not too little for a master cksmith like Kelsey.

    Fwoosh!

    With her aura intensifying to a greater degree thanks to the knowledge of being able to craft an Ignition weapon, Kelsey continued engraving the grooves on the de she tempered under the furnace at a faster rate, without reducing the quality of the engraving whatsoever. With her motivation at an all-time high, she replied with fervor, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯d probably be waiting for the hilt you¡¯re making at the rate I¡¯m going at!¡±

    Laughing at the answer Kelsey said, Dane replied as his motivation was also kindled, ¡°Let¡¯spete on who can finish first then!¡±

    ¡­

    As seconds turn to minutes, and minutes turn to hours, the night where the moon hung extremely high on the sky was reced with the sight of the vast blue sky where the sun showed a small part of its luminosity to the world. In other words, it was early morning.

    At this moment in time, the mes in the furnace had died out, and the table where the Gale Dragon Wood was worked on was filled with the shavings from said wood. As for the two, they were in front of the anvil not far away from the furnace, finally connecting the hilt and the de together to form Magnus Tempestria.

    Ttok! Ttok! Ttok!

    Kelsey was hammering the hilt on the de quite delicately, afraid of scuffing the exquisite carvings on the hilt Dane carved. As for Dane, he was chanting an incantation that summoned the Wind energy particles around their surroundings and willed it to cluster into a ball that hovered over head.

    ng!

    With the final hit on the hilt finally affixing the hilt on the de quite securely, Kelsey then hammered on a cap made from Spirit Star Steel, the same material used in the de as Dane pointed his fingers towards the grooves on the de.

    ¡°Let the Wind bless this weapon with great sharpness and swiftness! Holos Maximus!¡±

    Whoosh!

    While Kelsey was still holding the de upright, the cluster of Wind energy particles headed towards the grooves on the de, hastily expanding outwards to cover every nook and cranny on the de grooves, even going so far as to cover the hilt with Wind energy particles as well, allowing the weapon to radiate an aura of intense Wind.

    Lightly cing thepleted sword on the anvil, Kelsey could not help but look at the sword with extreme glee as she said, ¡°Finally, a weapon that can be said to be my masterwork, Magnus Tempestria.¡±

    Dane then ced a hand on Kelsey¡¯s shoulder as he said, ¡°It¡¯s been hard on y¡ª¡±

    Before Dane could finish what he was about to say, a faint silver light from the ceiling of the smithy seemed to concentrate into a beam as it shot towards Magnus Tempestria, intensifying the aura that the de radiated in an instant.

    ¡°With the humans creating an exquisite de exuding great affinity for Wind, this de has been blessed by the Lesser God of Wind.¡± A faint voice could only be heard near the two¡¯s ears as the silver light gradually enveloped Magnus Tempestria.

 Chapter 94: The Power of OS Points

    Chapter 94: The Power of OS Points

    While Kurohana was brought to the Hall of Greater Divinity by Phatia, one of the Immortal Verdict Wielders, to aplish 3 Seven Star Primordial level missions as her punishment, and in the midst of Aurus fighting against another boss of another experience haven¡­

    Well¡­even before all of that. Just after Aurus told Horell to tell Herellia about him hunting outside the alliance.

    ¡°I will be leaving the alliance,¡± Horell could finally say these words filled with intense pain to Herellia, who could only stand there dumbfounded at the words spoken by him.

    It took a while for Herellia to digest the statement, hastily thinking of it as a joke as she stifly chuckled. ¡°I knew you were serious kind of person, but to think that you can joke like that. C-Come on, Horell, don¡¯t scare me like that out of the blue.¡± Of course, Herellia had a nagging feeling that something bad was going to happen.

    ¡°Since you know me very well Herellia that I do not joke around, why would I joke about me leaving?¡± Seeing that Herellia just brushed his words off, Horell could only radiate a serious expression as he replied, his body slightly trembling.

    This time, Herellia could only be silent as she stared at Horell¡¯s body for a bit, noticing the slight trembling of his body as he tried to maintain a calm fa?ade in front of her. ¡®It seems¡­that there¡¯s reasons to him leaving.¡¯

    Letting out a soft sigh, Herellia then asked, ¡°What could possibly be the reason for your leave?¡±

    Hearing from Herellia¡¯s words that she was somewhat epting his leave, Horell pondered over his words for a bit before replying with, ¡°I can feel that my time to evolving into an Animate ising close. Of course, we all know how dangerous it is, seeing that the trial Zelefaire went through wreaked havoc onto our base.¡±

    With these wordsing out from Horell¡¯s mouth, Herellia could only shudder at the memory of the first andst Animate to evere out of the Tempest Branch Alliance, Zelefaire.

    A genius tree of his time, Zelefaire was regarded as one of the sturdiest Pir level members of the alliance, as he chose the path of bing a Magnus Fortressi, an extremely rare variant that excelled in defending something until the very end.

    And of course, as long as an Inanimate was genius enough to know how to transition into an Animate, they would eventually be one. But for Zelefaire, due to his variant being extremely rare, the ordeal that he had to go through to transition into an Animate was multiple times harder than a normal Inanimate transitioning into an Animate. It was so hard that almost 90% of the base of the Tempest Branch Alliance became ruins.

    In the end, due to the damage caused by Zelefaire¡¯s damage, Herellia had no choice but to kick Zelefaire out of the alliance, with Zelefaire understanding Herellia¡¯s train of thought fortunately at that time.

    Following that train of thought, Herellia knew that Horell wanted to leave the alliance in order to keep it away from the trial he was going to go through. And with that, she gave a few words of encouragement, telling Horell, ¡°I wish you the very best of luck in bing an Animate.¡±

    Radiating a slightly happy expression, Horell thanked Herellia with a few words before leaving her alone in the secluded area she usually stayed in. She maintained a cheerful and encouraging expression for a few moments before changing it into a serious one after making sure that Horell had finally left.

    ¡°Haah¡­it seems that any of our members cannot be trusted fully after all.¡±

    ¡°To think that you harbored those motives, even going so far as to ally with the enemy we¡¯ve sworn to kill.¡±

    ¡°All for the sake of greater knowledge huh¡­¡±

    ¡­

    Let us now go back to the present time, not focusing on Kurohana¡¯s missions, but rather, on Aurus¡¯ current situation.

    Fwoosh! Fwoosh! Fwoosh!

    ¡°Sword of Gluttony! Sword of Pride! Sword of Greed!¡±

    ¡°Combine as one!¡±

    ¡°[Sword of Infinite Sin]!¡±

    At the moment, Aurus floated in midair as he was currently fighting against the boss of a ce he wanted to go to, but was changed with the Tempest Cliff, the Greater Experience Haven.

    As the three swords made out of his Anima fused into one, the energy radiated by the fused sword was increased by a significant amount after being blessed by the energy radiated by Staff No. 1. With that boost, Aurus did not hesitate to fire it towards the boss, making a downwards sh on the body of the boss.

    Swish!

    Just like a sharpened knife cutting through tomatoes, the body of the boss was cut in half in an instant, easily dealing devastating damage to the boss wherein it could not evenprehend and perceive the danger the sword brought, or even the fact that it had died under Aurus¡¯ de.

    Wooooooshhh¡­

    Of course, with every death of an Inanimate, the body of the boss gradually dissipated into thin air, transforming into a bunch of green and red particles that hastily darted towards Aurus¡¯ body, only to be absorbed not long after.

    Ding!

    Looking at the notification screen that appeared in front of Aurus¡¯ field of vision, Aurus could not help but radiate a cheerful aura as he muttered to himself, ¡°Alright! Another OS Point! It was definitely worth investing into the [Artificial Intelligence] option of the Existence Evolution System.¡±

    Wait¡­[Artificial Intelligence]?

    Ah, that¡¯s right.

    Let us go back to a time before Aurus killed the unnamed boss of the Greater Experience Haven, to the time a few seconds after Aurus killed Arlithos, the Lord of the Lesser Experience Haven.

    ¡­

    ¡°Eh? You can get those from bosses?¡± Aurus could not help but exim after seeing that he received an OS Point from just killing Arlithos, the Lord of the Lesser Experience Haven.

    After realizing that one could get OS Points from killing bosses of certain grinding ces, Aurus started rummaging through his unsealed memories, trying to remember the easy to kill bosses at his current level, which could allow him to improve his system¡¯s OS to its greatest limit.

    As he was trying to remember the levels of the bosses, as well as their existence levels, Aurus thought to himself as he had an OS Point to use, ¡®You know what? I should use it on upgrading a part of the system that I haven¡¯t upgraded yet.¡¯

    Allocating most of his consciousness towards the screen regarding the Existence Evolution System¡¯s OS, he noticed that only [Artificial Intelligence] was the only part of the system that he hadn¡¯t upgraded yet.

    With it only needing one point, Aurus did not hesitate to upgrade the part to its maximum level, since its maximum level was one anyway.

    Fwoosh!

    At the instant Aurus confirmed his decision, the screen in front of him disappeared not long after as he could hear rumbling sounds ur within the depths of his soul. Thankfully, it was not harming his soul at all, but rather, it could be said that the rumbling sounds made his soul feel like it was undergoing afortable massage.

    This sensationsted for a few minutes, with the rumbling sounds stopping midway as a monotonous voice resounded in his mind.

    ¡®[Artificial Intelligence] has been unlocked. With this part unlocked, the user can now do more things with the system.¡¯

    ¡®With this being unlocked, the user now has ess to the system¡¯s feature of [Artificial Intelligence], which can be split into two parts: [Artificial Intelligence: Learning Module] and [Artificial Intelligence: Battle Module].¡¯

    ¡®The Learning portion of the feature allows the user to let the system nurture and enhance whatever the user wants to, but only limited to how much the module is upgraded.¡¯

    ¡®As for the Battle portion of the feature, it allows the user to check the power level of the enemy, as well as the least amount of skills needed in order to effectively kill the enemy in front. By upgrading this module, more things rted to battling could be done.¡¯

    ¡°¡­¡± Aurus could only stay speechless after hearing those wordse from the system.

    Who knew that [Artificial Intelligence] would be the most important part of the system?!

    It took him around ten minutes to digest this information, his nonexistent eyes gleaming at the end of it as he muttered to himself, ¡°The Learning module seems to be a way to enhance my skills even without needing to use it. It did say that it would nurture and enhance anything I want, so there¡¯s a chance it might work.¡±

    ¡°But for now, let¡¯s focus on the Battle module.¡±

    Whoosh!

    With that, he then roamed through the Lesser Experience Haven for a bit, finding a being he could use the module on to get a feel for its features.

    It did not take him long though, as a C-grade Inanimate appeared below where he hovered around 30 seconds after his flight.

    Looking at the C-grade Inanimate below him, Aurus could not help but ask himself, ¡°Now how do you use the module?¡±

    Weeennnggg¡­

    As if it was an answer to his question, a translucent screen appeared in front of his field of vision, showing him information, which after Aurus looked at twice, seemed to be information regarding the battle power of the being, as well as the most ideal method on killing the being.

    Ding!

    ¡ª¡ª¨C

    Twig [C-Grade Inanimate]

    Power Level: Nil

    Ideal Killing Method: Rolling over it

    ¡ª¡ª¨C

    ¡°Hmm¡­what¡¯s power level?¡± Aurus asked himself about it for a bit before thinking otherwise. ¡°On second thought, never mind. I¡¯ll find it out once I look at it when I fight the bosses. It seems that Nil is the lowest power level?¡±

    ¡°Also, the information I can see is quite littlepared to just identifying the being. I should probably upgrade the system once I get more OS Points.¡±

    After testing the Battle module of the system once, Aurus was now satisfied, activating [Gale Hover] to move towards the Greater Experience Haven, which housed the first easy to kill boss on his finally finished list of bosses that were easy to kill in his current level.

 Chapter 95: An Unexpected Punishment

    Chapter 95: An Unexpected Punishment

    Returning back to the present where Aurus had just recently killed the unnamed boss of the Greater Experience Haven, obtaining another OS Point for his use.

    Feeling satisfied with the effects of the newly obtained Battle module from the [Artificial Intelligence] option he unlocked from the Existence Evolution System¡¯s OS, he decided that it would not be a waste for him to allocate another OS Point to the Battle module. Heck, even if he decided to allocate all of the points he would obtain from killing bosses to the Battle module, allowing it to max out, he would not even have a tinge of regret!

    That¡¯s how reliant the Battle module is!

    ¡°Upgrade [Artificial Intelligence: Battle Module],¡± Aurusmanded to the system, without even a shred of hesitation.

    Ding!

    ¡®Are you sure you would like to upgrade [Artificial Intelligence: Battle Module] to Level 2/10? This will cost you 1 OS Point!¡¯

    Although the system alerted him that he could not go back on his choices, he ignored it and confirmed his decision.

    Whoosh!

    Rather than upgrading in an instant just like the other things he could upgrade, it seemed that there was a dy in the upgrades for [Artificial Intelligence], which did somewhat make sense due to it being an upgrade to the performance capabilities to the system¡¯s OS if one looked at a different perspective.

    Thankfully, the system told him that it would only take a few minutes at most, and that it would not affect the other aspects of the system while the Battle module was being upgraded. Since he had nothing else to do within the Greater Experience Haven, he decided to fly away, heading towards the Inferno Grounds, one of the ces in Aurus¡¯ list that housed a boss he could kill with his current power.

    ¡°System, open my status screen.¡± Out of sheer impulse, Aurus decided to open up his status screen, randomly wondering about his current stats.

    Ding!

    Just like what the system said before, any other aspects of the system were not affected at all, evident in the holographic screen that appeared in front of Aurus¡¯ field of vision.

    ________

    [Aurus] (Level 9/20)

    Experience: 900/5120

    Species: Tempest Walnut Spiritas Flux (Rare+)

    Existence Level: Inanimate

    Grade: S

    [HP]: 5176/5176

    [SP]: 2040/2040

    [Flux]: 15/15

    [Life]: 125/125

    [Will]: 125/125

    Stats:

    [Tenacity]: 200

    [Vitality]: 280

    [Spirit]: 367

    Synchronization Rate: 60%

    Unused Experience Points: 214855

    Unused Genesis Points: 41

    ________

    ¡°Tsk.¡± Aurus could not help but click his tongue. ¡°Just by evolving into an S-grade Inanimate, my measly HP from when I was an A-grade, is nowparable to a normal X-grade. Even my SP was increased by a bit, it seems that the ss Seed obtained from evolving to S-grade is quite more powerful than an A-grade one.¡±

    ¡°Heh¡­I still have over 200 thousand experience points that I haven¡¯t used.¡± After looking at his status screen for a bit, he noticed that he has not touched it even after evolving into S-grade. He did decide that it might be useful to use it to max his level out, but since he was going to kill bosses that would give him a lot of experience along the process, he finally decided otherwise.

    ¡°Wait¡­the maximum Flux I can hold now is 15?¡± Aurus was somewhat dumbfounded at this number, although it was only a 50 percent increase. He knew that he originally had a maximum Flux amount of 10 at all times, so he asked himself, ¡°When did it increase to that number?¡±

    Closing his status screen, he opened up his notification log, instantly alerting him of two skills that could already be evolved whenever he wanted.

    Ding!

    ¡®[Flux Vessel] and [Flux Weapon Creation] have reached the MAX level.¡¯

    ¡®[Flux Vessel] and [Flux Weapon Creation] have met the necessary requirements and are ready to be evolved.¡¯

    ¡°Eh?¡± At first, he was quite shocked to see that these two techniques could already be evolved. But after a bit of mulling over, he could not help butugh loudly.

    ¡°To think that my hypothesis was correct!¡±

    Since he did not dismantle Staff No. 1 after creating it, it seemed that his hypothesis, where the weapon passively increased the experience for [Flux Vessel] and [Flux Weapon Creation], was correct.

    ¡°Evolve all of the evolvable skills,¡± Aurusmanded.

    Ding!

    A few secondster, a notification screen appeared in front of his field of vision, letting him know the new names of the skills.

    ¡®[Flux Vessel] has been evolved to [Expanded Flux Vessel].¡¯

    ¡®[Flux Weapon Creation] has been evolved to [Better Flux Weapon Creation].¡¯

    While reading the new names of the skills, the upgrade of the Battle Module coincidentally finished as he closed the notification screen, increasing the happiness Aurus felt by a margin.

    Although he was eager to check out the new effects brought by the Battle module¡¯s upgrade, he knew that he could always try it out on the boss of the Inferno Grounds he was heading towards.

    ¡°Now that I think about it, I should change my current weapon for something better, seeing that I can use more Flux in creating a weapon, as well as having a higher ranked Flux as material. Would it speed up the experience gain of both skills? Would creating armor speed it up as well?¡± With these thoughts in mind, he flew towards the Inferno Grounds with great speed.

    ¡­

    While Aurus was flying towards the Inferno Grounds, wondering about the effects of the upgraded Battle module and other things¡­

    Within the vast and seemingly boundless Celestial ne.

    Whoosh!

    Two beautiful silhouettes appeared near the entrance of an extremely extravagant hall, exuding a radiance that it could not be sullied or destroyed by any external entity. This extravagant hall was the Hall of Greater Divinity, while the two beautiful silhouettes were Phatia, who came with Kurohana to punish her for her wrong deeds.

    As the two of them entered therge hall, the aura Phatia subconsciously radiated instantly attracted the attention of the Greater Gods within the hall, who were previously minding their own business.

    ¡°Damn! That¡¯s some extremely terrifying aura!¡±

    ¡°Shhh! Don¡¯t say that out loud! One of the Immortal Verdict Wielders just entered the Hall!¡±

    ¡°Ah?! Why would an Immortal Verdict Wielder enter our Hall if they have their own hall?¡±

    ¡°Probably for a reason we¡¯ll never know.¡±

    As the Greater Gods that noticed Phatia and Kurohana started to animatedly discuss the reasons why an Immortal Verdict Wielder entered the hall, Phatia and Kurohana¡¯s journey was cut short as a goddess that radiated an intense aura of darkness instantly appeared in front of the two of them.

    Whoosh!

    ¡°I apologize for not personally seeing you into this Hall of mine, Phatia.¡± With a slightly respectful on her face, the woman that appeared in front of the two said as she slightly bowed towards Phatia.

    ¡°You don¡¯t need to think about it that much, Nix. I know you¡¯re a busy woman, especially with the fact that you¡¯re close to wielding an Immortal Verdict.¡± Phatia responded to the woman¡¯s words, whose name was Nix, with grace. She also took this time to say, ¡°Let me also congratte you in advance in bing the ninth Immortal Verdict Wielder of the Celestial ne.¡±

    Nix, who did not expect Phatia to congratte her, slightly shuddered before hastilyposing herself as she lightly smiled, her smile acting as light amidst the darkness she radiated.

    Just like her name, Nix was the Goddess that governed over the Law of the Void. Thanks to her supreme mastery over thew, many Greater Gods have given her the title of the Goddess of the Void, sometimes even being called the Empress of Nihility. Add in the fact that her mastery allowed to peer beyond herw and take grasp of an even greaterw, this allowed her to wield a small part of an Immortal Verdict which melded quite well with her ownw, making her a Pseudo Immortal Verdict Wielder.

    ¡°I shall treat you to some tea after this.¡± As she said this to Phatia, she finally noticed Kurohana beside Phatia who was silent all this time. Looking at how Kurohana was with Phatia as they arrived, Nix instantly understood the reason for Phatia¡¯s visit.

    ¡°It seems you¡¯re punishing a Greater God under your Immortal Verdict?¡± Nix raised her eyebrow, having great confidence at her spection.

    ¡°Mm, this girl right here did not ask for my permission before wielding my Immortal Verdict, thankfully the part she controlled fused back with my Immortal Verdict, or else I won¡¯t be standing here talking with you.¡± Although Phatia remained a calm andposed expression on the outside, she still could not help but be angry whenever she looked at Kurohana.

    ¡°How many missions are you nning to give her? What difficulty as well?¡± As the overseer of the Hall of Greater Divinity, Nix immediately went into the crux of the matter, asking for the level of punishment Kurohana would have to go through.

    ¡°3 missions, each oneting at the very least 20 God Sparks.¡± Phatia recalled the punishment she gave Kurohana and repeated it to Nix.

    ¡°Quite a lenient punishment,¡± Nix lightly chuckled before looking at Kurohana, asking, ¡°Do you have any objections to this? If you try to avoid your punishment, you¡¯ll be banned from the Hall, lest you ept a punishment of a greater level than this.¡±

    Kurohana sighed lightly as she softly replied, ¡°I have no objections.¡±

    ¡°Then that makes things somewhat easier,¡± Nix lightly smiled. She then waved her hands in the air for a bit, before three motes of light appeared in front of her.

    ¡°I have handpicked these three missions for you. Since you¡¯re so cooperative, I¡¯ve decided to choose missions thatted out 20 God Sparks, not even 21,¡± Nix said as she looked at Kurohana.

    ¡°The first mission you shall undertake is¡­¡±

    ¡°To satiate the built up lust umted by the Greater God of Pleasure, as well as find the crux of why it has umted.¡±

 Chapter 96: Inferno Grounds

    Chapter 96: Inferno Grounds

    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!

    With his speed higher than before, Aurus was able to reach the Inferno Grounds within three hours, taking in the fact that the Greater Experience Haven was only 10 kilometers away from this ce.

    The first sensation Aurus felt from entering the Inferno Grounds was intense heat, which was definitely a given since from the name of the ce alone, it would definitely have something to do with fire or magma or anything that radiated heat.

    As he hovered towards the ce where the boss of the Inferno Grounds was, he could not help but notice theck of Inanimate beings within this area, especially wood-based Inanimates just like him. After thinking about it for a bit, he could not help but have the urge to p his nonexistent face as he muttered, ¡°Fire counteracts wood, which means that the chances of a wood-based Inanimate adapting to this environment is extremely low. Thankfully, the Flux covering my body is protecting me right now.¡±

    The reason why Aurus knew that the Flux protected his body was because, while traversing the Greater Experience Haven, an Inanimate that was weaker than him shot an attack towards him all of a sudden, with him only hearing the sound of metal bending as the attack collided with his body.

    No notification appeared in front of his field of vision, which he finally deduced to the Flux passively protecting him. He also did a few more tests before fighting against the boss of the Greater Experience Haven, allowing him to learn the fact that he could adapt to any environment thanks to the sheer density of Wind element particles in his Flux.

    Minutes pass by as he avoided any ce within the Inferno Grounds that radiated an intense bout of heat that could suppress his Flux¡¯s protection, gradually making his way towards the south end of the Inferno Grounds, where the strongest Inanimate aura was radiated. Only the boss of the Inferno Grounds could radiate such a strong aura.

    As he made his way closer to the boss of the Inferno Grounds, he stopped around a kilometer away from the boss, deciding to make some preparations beforehand.

    ¡°Summon Staff No. 1,¡± Aurus softlymanded.

    Whoosh!

    In an instant, Staff No. 1, the first ever Flux weapon he created, appeared in front of his field of vision. He then looked at it for a bit before muttering, ¡°Although you¡¯re the first weapon I¡¯ve created and you have been with me for like¡­a day, I¡¯m afraid I can¡¯t stick with you any further. I have to branch out and turn over a new leaf, you know? If I want to get stronger, I need to craft a new weapon. Don¡¯t worry, you will be rooted into my memory.¡± Even though it was true that Staff No. 1sted for a day, it was still the first weapon he crafted, which did hold a bit of sentimental value.

    Sighing with slight mncholy, he thenmanded, ¡°Dismantle Staff No. 1.¡±

    Crack! Crack! Crack!

    At the instant Aurus was finished with hismand, a hairline crack appeared on the staff, which gradually expanded to cover the whole staff before breaking the staff into extremely miniscule fragments which could not be even detected by the naked eye.

    He went silent for a bit before saying, ¡°[Better Flux Weapon Creation].¡±

    Whoosh!

    Not a momentter, a screen appeared in front of his field of vision, asking him the same questions as before, but with some things changed, like the special effects of choosing between a Physical or a Magical weapon being enhanced, and the amount of Flux he could allocate to creating a weapon, which has been increased to 6, double of what it was previously.

    A few minutester, a staff that looked slightly more extravagant than Staff No. 1 appeared in front of Aurus¡¯ field of vision, radiating an aura that resonated with his own, allowing him to feel the power within the weapon he created.

    ¡°Examine Weapon,¡± Aurus muttered.

    Ding!

    ________

    Staff No. 2 (Magical)

    Grade: Inanimate ¡ª Magic

    ¡ª¡ª¨C

    Attack + 180

    Damage + 9%

    Cast Time ¨C 15%

    SP Cost ¨C 15%

    ¡ª¡ª¨C

    A staff created out of a highly ranked Flux from a Spiritas, if not for the fact that the Spiritas¡¯ crafting capabilities were inferior, this could perhaps be a weapon that could be a legacy for many generations of Inanimates toe. Nheless, thanks to the superior material used to create the weapon, it boasts a power unlike others, allowing the user to dish out high amounts of damage at a fast rate while using less SP.

    ________

    Satisfied with the properties of his new weapon, Aurus flew closer and closer to the boss of the Inferno Grounds, only leaving around a 100 meter gap between the two of them.

    Whoosh!

    ¡°Hm?¡± In an instant, the boss of the Inferno Grounds could not help but feel an aura that seemed to suppress its own. It searched all throughout its surroundings, before looking upwards at a branch that hovered in midair.

    ¡°Hoh? A wood-based Inanimate like you actually has the guts to enter a ce filled with Fire element particles.¡± The boss of the area could not help but cackle as its mouth stifly opened and closed as it spoke.

    From Aurus¡¯ perspective, the boss of the Inferno Grounds looked like a rough carving of a dragon from stone. Nheless, the aura radiated by this rough stone dragon did not lose out to his in any way, prompting Aurus to identify the boss.

    Ding!

    ________

    [Fuschar (Lord of the Inferno Grounds)]

    Level: 32/40

    Species: Boulder Dragonica Inferna

    Existence Level: Inanimate (X)

    [HP]: 23600/23600

    [SP]: 4550/4550

    Stats:

    [Solidity]: 1436

    [Vitality]: 1823

    [Rage]: 1134

    Skills:

    Information does not need to be known due to the user¡¯s overwhelming advantage.

    ________

    Aurus could not help but click his tongue after seeing the boss¡¯ health. ¡°Although that¡¯s nothingpared to the Pir level members of the alliance, that¡¯s still impressive.¡±

    Not long after, another screen appeared in front of the previous screen, seeminglying from the system¡¯s Battle module.

    Ding!

    ¡ª¡ª¨C

    Fuschar (X-grade Inanimate)

    Power Level: Novice (12 degrees)

    Ideal Killing Method:

    >Usage of [Zenith Spirit Transcendence]

    >Attacking with [Sword of Sloth], inflicting a debuff

    >Attacking with [Sword of Insatiable Lust], a fusion of [Sword of Lust] and [Sword of Gluttony]

    >Attacking with [Spirit Gale de]

    ¡ª¡ª¨C

    ¡°It seems that my choice is correct.¡± Aurus could not help but chuckle inwardly. With just the simple allocation of a single OS Point to upgrade the Battle module to a higher level, the capabilities of the Battle module have risen to greater heights, not only letting Aurus know of a single killing method, but instead, a formted n that would allow to triumph over his enemies without consideration.

    ¡°Not only did the killing method be a battle n, the power level of the enemy has be more detailed as well,¡± Aurus muttered. ¡°12 degrees¡­degrees¡­where have I seen that before?¡±

    Of course, Aurus could not put a finger as to where he read it since he was close to engaging with the Lord of the Inferno Grounds in a fight to the death.

    ¡°Heh¡­scared to the point you can¡¯t move eh?¡± Taking Aurus¡¯ immobility as a sign of fear, Fuschar could not help but snigger as a ball of fire was gradually formed as its stone jaws opened.

    ¡°Then, let me make the first move!¡±

    Fwoosh!

    With the innately high movement speed brought by the skills of an X-grade Inanimate, Fuschar¡¯s fireball flew at a considerably fast speed towards where Aurus was, not even needing a minute to reach him. Then again¡­

    Aurus was faster.

    ¡°[Supreme Tempest Burst].¡±

    Fwoosh!

    In an instant, the aura Aurus radiated was intensified by twofold as Aurus easily dodged the fireball with his currently insurmountably superior speed. Using this heightened speed to his advantage, he activated [Zenith Spirit Transcendence] as he reduced the gap between the two of them.

    Swish!

    Only hearing the sound of the wind blowing, Fuschar could not even sense that Aurus was already behind it, conjuring a sword of a green color out of his Anima, which its power was intensified thanks to the aura radiated by Aurus¡¯ new weapon, Staff No. 2.

    ¡°Yeah, I won¡¯t let you take me down that easily,¡± Aurus said behind Fuschar as the green de shed down on Fuschar.

    ¡°[Sword of Sloth]!¡±

    Swoosh! Crack!

    ¡°Graahh!¡± Although Fuschar was an Inanimate of the stone-type, the sheer power held by the [Sword of Sloth] conjured by Aurus made Fuschar¡¯s skin seem like tofu that could be cut easily.

    ¡°You dare attack me?¡± Fuschar, who had never been at a disadvantage once in its life, could not believe that someone was able tond a hit on itself before it could, suppressing the pain it felt as it felt extreme rage. ¡°Just you wait, I won¡¯t let you die that easil¡ª¡±

    Just as it was nning to retaliate, Fuschar noticed that it could not move any part of its body at all. Ironically, Fuschar could be said to be like a stone statue at this moment, awaiting its final verdict.

    With Fuschar immobile, Aurus took this time to mock it. ¡°Oh? You won¡¯t let me die that easily? Then I¡¯ll say the opposite to you.¡±

    Weeeng! Weeeng!

    Two swords, one of orange color and one of yellow color, fused together above Aurus¡¯ body into one, exuding an aura that it could not be stopped by anything in its way as it was almost fully orange color, save for the splotches of yellow on its hilt.

    ¡°Goodbye.¡±

    ¡°[Sword of Insatiable Lust]!¡±

    Swish!

    This time, Aurus shed horizontally on Fuschar¡¯s body, creating a deep gash that severely wounded its vitality. Not only that, the scream of pain Fuschar released was on an extremely higher level, with the earth shaking and trees and nts falling down due to the boundless might of Aurus¡¯ sword.

    Hearing the loud screame out of Fuschar¡¯s mouth, Aurus then turned around and started to hover as he said to himself, ¡°If it were not for its thick skin, then it would¡¯ve died at the first sword.¡±

    He knew that Fuschar was already dead at this point, but just as he was waiting for the notification screen to pop up¡­

    A ck fireball collided with the back of his body!

    Bang!

    ¡°¡­!¡± From the power of the fireball alone, Aurus was flung tens of meters away from where he was originally ced. Thankfully, the Flux covering him mitigated a great portion of the damage he could have received.

    Using [Formosus Exuberance] to heal his HP back to full, he could not help but click his tongue afterwards as he said, ¡°This is going to be a bit more annoying than I thought.¡±

 Chapter 97: Ups and Downs

    Chapter 97: Ups and Downs

    Thanks to the ck fireball thrown at him, Aurus knew that Fuschar was not dead from thest strike he shed out, but instead, barely living just so it could retaliate.

    Turning his field of vision around to look at Fuschar, Aurus could easily see that the vitality remaining within Fuschar¡¯s body just barely let it send out a single attack that could possibly turn the tides. Sadly, the attack Fuschar sent out could not even injure Aurus that much, only reducing his HP by a few hundred at most. Then again, Aurus could not help but ask himself, ¡°Shouldn¡¯t the Battle module¡¯s n allow me to kill my enemy with certainty? Why did it leave the enemy with a small amount of HP to retaliate?¡±

    He then looked at the Battle module screen that popped up after looking at Fuschar once more, finally seeing his mistake after a quick skim.

    ¡°Ah.¡± It seemed that Aurus forgot the final move on the Battle module¡¯s n.

    Intensifying the aura his new staff, Staff No. 2, radiated, he conjured a magic circle within his Spell Core that was filled with abstruse and mysterious runes. Not long after, a de made out of extremely dense Wind energy particles was formed on top of Aurus¡¯ body, to which Aurus hastily maneuvered to sh towards Fuschar¡¯s body.

    Swish!

    ¡°Aarrrghh!!!¡±

    With another shrill crying out of Fuschar¡¯s mouth that gradually quieted as time passed, Aurus was finally certain that Fuschar was dead for sure this time.

    Ding!

    With a notification sound resounding throughout his mind, Aurus was now extremely sure that Fuschar was dead. He even saw the particles that remained from Fuschar¡¯s body get absorbed by his body.

    With the Life and Will particles being automatically omitted by the system¡¯s notifications due to his [Life] and [Will] being maxed out, he could still see that he gained Genesis and OS Points, to which he gained 5 and 1 respectively.

    ¡®Experience +10000¡¯

    ¡®50% of the user¡¯s gained experience shall be shared to the user¡¯s pet.¡¯

    ¡®Congrattions! Fenrir has leveled up to Level 43!¡¯

    ¡®Congrattions! Aurus has leveled up to Level 10!¡¯

    ¡®5 Genesis Points have been obtained.¡¯

    ¡®1 OS Point has been obtained.¡¯

    ¡°Oh? Fenrir has already reached Level 43? Then that means it won¡¯t take long for him to evolve to S-grade!¡± Although Aurus noticed that with every boss he killed, Fenrir would level up, it was only at this moment did Aurus truly take notice of it since allowing Fenrir to evolve to S-grade would let him kill bosses faster, with Fenrir nking attacks and him dishing out attacks.

    He hovered over the ground of the Inferno Grounds for a bit as he tried to recall the list of bosses he could kill at his current level. ¡°I¡¯ve already killed 2 bosses out of the list I made, which has 10 bosses in total. I shouldn¡¯t waste more, lest Herellia gets mad at me.¡±

    Although he was quite sure that Horell told Herellia about him going away to hunt and strengthen himself, he could not help but have this nagging feeling at the back of his head, gnawing away at his worries.

    ¡°[Gale Hover]! [Child of the Wind]!¡±

    Using two movement boosting spells consecutively, with thetter being learned when his Spell Core reached Middle grade, Aurus bolted out of the Inferno Grounds, heading for the next area in his list to kill its boss and earn OS Points at a faster time.

    ¡­

    Within the core of the Tempest Cliff¡­

    A few days have passed since Chonk was finally enlightened on thecking part of his Tempering skill, [Tempest Genesis Rebirth]. Due to the sheer difficulty of the Tempering skill he created, the process of his transition to a Rank 1 ss was extremely lengthy whenpared to other transition process, with the quickest only needing half an hour.

    But with its lengthy transition process came its benefits. Due to the nature of Chonk¡¯s skill, the structure of his body, which was previously thick and sturdy, now be slimmer and sleeker, allowing one to feel the nature of Wind radiating around his body without sacrificing the original qualities of his body, which was being sturdy in its defense. Not only that, his body grew in size as well, around twice his original size.

    And finally, the ray of light that shone upon him at the instant he fully mastered his Tempering skill, this ray of light imbued a bit of the naturalws of Wind on his forehead, creating a small mark of a de on it.

    A few minutester, the ray of light, which shone upon him all this time throughout the transition process, gradually dissipated as Chonk¡¯s consciousness finally awakened to the newfound feeling of a transitioned body.

    It took a while for Chonk to adjust to his new sleek body, doing some basic movements at first to get ustomed to his surely heightened stats, before doing more and moreplex movements with fluidity and grace.

    Finally knowing the limits of his newly transitioned body, Chonk could not help but feel ted at the improvement the transition gave to his body,ughing to himself. ¡°Although it took me a few years to finally master my Tempering skill, the reward I got from it was definitely worth it. Not only has my strength and vitality grown many times stronger, my speed has shown the greatest improvement, not evenparable to my previous speed!¡±

    Basking in the joy of transitioning, Chonk then felt a splitting pain in his head for a moment before dissipating the next instant after, as if it did not ur at all. He tried to look into the insides of his mind for a bit, before discovering with great joy that the benefits of transitioning did not stop with increasing his stats, it also gave him innate skills that he could use!

    ¡°I should check the skills that I obtained after I create an Ascension skill!¡± While walking out of the core of the Tempest Cliff, a ringing sound resounded throughout his mind, stopping him in his tracks.

    ¡°Oh? Who could be calling at this time?¡± Since Chonk was finally finished transitioning to a Rank 1 ss, his method ofmunication, which was previously sealed due to his wish of not being disturbed, was now unlocked, which consisted of calling through the mind.

    epting the call, Chonk then asked, ¡°Who is it?¡±

    Not long after Chonk was finished asking, a voice Chonk was familiar with, replied, ¡°Master, I feel like I¡¯m about to breakthrough to the Animate level. Do not worry for I still have the Master¡¯s ambitions in mind. The ss I¡¯ll evolve into will definitely not let you down.¡±

    At first, Chonk was shocked as he did not expect that the one who would call him was a spy he sent out long ago, the most secret spy he had ced in one of the three alliances that governed the Tempest Cliff. Dumbfounded for a bit, it took Chonk a while topose himself before saying, ¡°As long as you have my ambitions in mind, then I don¡¯t mind what ss you choose.¡±

    ¡°Alright Master, I won¡¯t disturb you any longer. From the aura I can feel through our call alone, it seems that you have sessfully transitioned into a Rank 1 ss, Master. Congrattions.¡±

    Lightly chuckling, Chonk then replied, ¡°Thanks. I¡¯ll also congratte you in your advance to the Animate level in advance¡­¡±

    ¡°Horell.¡±

    ¡­

    After about a week of traversing multiple regions in order to hunt down their bosses, Aurus was finally done clearing the list of bosses that he could kill at his current level, with many of his skills obtaining a decent upgrade. Although he wanted to evolve most of them at this point, he could not wait but evolve another thing first as the thing he wanted to evolve first was more important than his skills.

    Using all of the movement boosting spells he had in his arsenal, he darted towards the insides of the Tempest Cliff, not even making a stop on the base of the Tempest Branch Alliance, but instead, heading towards the sole building he owned, the Tempest Cliff Inheritance.

    Whoosh!

    Since the distance between the outskirts of the Tempest Cliff and the Tempest Ruin could be easily traversed within an hour with Aurus¡¯ current capabilties, it did not take long for Aurus to enter the Tempest Cliff Inheritance and hover at the center of a jade green hall, a ce he felt somewhat nostalgic to.

    ¡°Thankfully, all of the extra experience that could not be used did not go to waste,¡± Aurus could not help but say with excitement. Yet not long after, this excitement was turned into a sour feeling as he added, ¡°But I wonder¡­¡±

    ¡°Why did I have such incredibly bad luck in killing those bosses?¡±

    Throughout the 8 remaining bosses that he had to kill, almost all of them were only hanging by a thread near their death, rather than being surely killed by the ns formted by the module. Almost every time, he had to suffer against thest minute retaliation from the bosses, which did not hurt at all, but felt annoying.

    ¡°Not only that, even thest boss I wanted to kill was alerted of my presence before I could attack! What¡¯s wrong with my luck these past few days?¡±

    Putting his problem of bad luck at the back of his head for now, he calmed his emotions down as hemanded the system, ¡°Summon Fenrir.¡±

    Whoosh!

    Not long after, arge wooden wolf appeared in front of Aurus, to which this wooden wolf hastily screamed out, ¡°Master!¡±

    Since it was a long time after Fenrir wasst released into the world, Fenrir felt a sense of longing for his master, wanting to snuggle up to him at the instant he was summoned.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry for not needing your help earlier, Fenrir,¡± Knowing the emotions his pet felt, Aurus could not help but sincerely apologize. ¡°But this time, that¡¯s going to change!¡±

    ¡°Are you ready?¡± Aurus looked at Fenrir straight in the eyes¡­as if they both had eyes in the first ce.

    Having a hunch as to what his master was about to do, Fenrir wagged his tail back and forth in a quick manner as he shouted, ¡°Yes, Master! I am always already!¡±

    ¡°Alright then! From now on, you will never leave my side!¡±

    ¡°Evolve Fenrir!¡±

 Chapter 98: A New Companion

    Chapter 98: A New Companion

    ¡°Evolve Fenrir!¡±

    Whoosh!

    At the very next instant Aurus was finishedmanding the system to evolve his one and only pet, Fenrir¡¯s body was hastily shrouded with an overbearingly bright light as Fenrir¡¯s body structure gradually changed to morph into a blob that was made up of an unknown substance.

    Although Aurus was interested as to what Fenrir was going to evolve into as he watched his evolution process, Aurus decided to do other things while waiting for Fenrir to evolve, since in the end, he would still find out how Fenrir evolved.

    Aftermanding the system to position Fenrir¡¯s body at the center of the green jade hall, Aurus then used his authority over the whole Tempest Cliff Inheritance to open up a pathway towards one of the special rooms within the inheritance, the skill room.

    Swish!

    Not long after, an entrance was formed at one side of the hall that led towards the skill room. After Aurus saw this entrance, he hovered towards the entrance as he looked at Fenrir¡¯s currently evolving body.

    ¡°With a potential grade like his, his evolution will definitely not disappoint me. His A-grade form alone gave me a great boost in speed already!¡± Aurus reassured his doubts as he traversed through the whole entirety of the pathway, arriving at the skill room a few minutester.

    Being greeted by the sight of multiple rows of bookshelves that housed techniques and skills that ranged from being so simple that a baby could understand it, to being quiteplex that even an Animate would be hard pressed to understand, Aurus could not help but take a breath in through his body as he said, ¡°Time to find a defensive technique.¡±

    Indeed, Aurus entered the inheritance to find a defensive technique. After fighting against the bosses, he realized that he had no way to defend himself whatsoever. He could dish out high amounts of damage and heal his HP back to full when time allowed it, but what would happen to him if the enemy could kill him in one shot? Just ept his fate that he was not able to dodge the attack or retaliate in any way?

    Definitely not!

    Although he had the Flux covering his bodytely as a sort of passive defense, it was utterlycking whenpared to active defense. Sure, with his Spell Core being of the Middle-High grade, he obtained ess to an extremely great spell that boasted active defense, [Spirit Gale Barrier]. But¡­with the long cast times needed to unleash such spells, he might already be dead before he could even defend.

    This was his true purpose foring back to the inheritance, evolving Fenrir was just out of whim.

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡± Aurus gradually browsed through the bookshelves as he slowly hovered along the way. Some of the techniques he found would make his nonexistent eyes glisten for a bit, but then after a bit, it would dim down, thinking of the disadvantages it held.

    ¡°Oh? A defensive technique that allows me to conjure shields to protect my body? Yeah¡­no, although I can conjure a lot of shields, it would probably take me a lot of SP to sustain that.¡±

    ¡°A defensive technique that casts a reflective mirror in front of me¡­I¡¯d just get hit from behind if that¡¯s the case.¡±

    ¡°Using swords made out of SP to actively deflect attacks¡­quite nice but incredibly shy. Hard to sustain as well by the looks of it.¡±

    ¡°Hm¡­¡± After a while, Aurus finally stopped in front of a bookshelf, staring quite well at a certain technique as he scanned it through the help of his system. A few secondster, rather than his nonexistent eyes dimming down just like what happened with other techniques, it instead brightened, showing his great motivation to learn it. ¡°This is the one!¡±

    Without hesitation, hemanded the system to learn the technique.

    Ding!

    Hearing the notification sound resound through his mind, Aurus could not help but think of the multiple possibilties and situations he could use the technique in. Adding in Fenrir who would probably be tanking all of the attacks, the possibilities became even wider.

    He opened up his notification log and read the name of the technique, making sure that it was the technique he chose to learn.

    ¡®You have learned [Barrier].¡¯

    ¡®Due to the ipatibility of the skill with the user¡¯s body, the skill has been adapted to [Barrier of the Spiritas].¡¯

    ¡°Yep, this is definitely the one I chose.¡± With a cheerful aura radiating around his body, Aurus then hovered back towards the green jade hall, thinking about the new defensive skill he obtained and the Learning module of the [Artificial Intelligence] portion of his system.

    Wait¡­

    [Barrier]. The most basic defensive skill anyone could learn¡­ever. Now why did Aurus learn that?

    Think about it, would Evinkell¡ªI mean Kevin, allow such a simple technique to enter the bookshelves of an inheritance¡¯s skill room? With his standing in the Animate world, highly improbable.

    ¡°Let me just make sure of my choice one more time¡­¡± While travelling back to the green jade hall, Aurus thought of using the system¡¯s Learning module to level [Barrier of the Spiritas] to its max level before leveling it up. ¡°Identify [Barrier of the Spiritas].¡±

    Ding!

    ________

    [Barrier of the Spiritas] (Level 1/3)

    Grade: Mortal (C)

    The most basic defensive skill optimized by the Great Sage Kevin, which has been adapted to the user¡¯s body through the system, allows the defensive skill to be an extremely strong defensive skill that can beparable to defensive skills that allow the user to withstand attacks from tens to hundreds of people at once.

    Through the Sage¡¯s optimization, the defensive ability of the conjured barrier is proportional to thebined power of the user¡¯s Defense and Vitality stat. This proportion can grow bigger whenever the user infuses more SP into said barrier.

    Minimum SP Cost per second: 2 SP

    Cooldown: 10 seconds

    ________

    After skimming through the text twice, Aurus thenmanded the system to nurture this skill whenever he was not using it, to which the system promptly replied with a notification.

    Ding!

    ¡®[Barrier of the Spiritas] is now being passively nurtured by the system. If the user wishes to hasten the rate of improvement, the user must upgrade the module to higher levels.¡¯

    Although Aurus was quite tempted to upgrade the Learning module, he knew that he should focus on the Battle module more, rather than on the former.

    ¡­

    Arriving at the edge of the green jade hall a couple of minutester, Aurus was greeted by the sight of a new and improved Fenrir.

    At first nce, one could notice that Fenrir¡¯s body became more detailed whenpared to his A-grade body. If one couldpare it to something, then Fenrir¡¯s body wasparable to a novice sculptor creating their first wooden wolf sculpture.

    Though it did not capture much of the ferocity of the wolf, many details that could be seen on a wolf that were not seen on Fenrir¡¯s body before, was now visible. ws, a sleek body, some tufts of wooden fur, these are some details that were now added on Fenrir¡¯s body.

    Not only that, Fenrir grew in size once more, now being thrice the size of Aurus¡¯ body, and that¡¯s taking into consideration that Aurus¡¯ body grew a bit after evolving to S-grade!

    ¡°Master!¡± Thanks to the flexibility given by evolving to S-grade, Fenrir¡¯s jaw, that did not move at all at A-grade, now moved somewhat as it screamed towards Aurus, wagging its tail back and forth from excitement.

    Why?

    It was because his master said that he would not be unsummoned anymore, allowing him to be by Aurus¡¯ side always!

    ¡°You¡¯ve grown Fenrir.¡± As Aurus got closer to Fenrir, Aurus¡¯ cheerful aura intensified by a bit, seeing that Fenrir has grown stronger, far strongerpared to his previous expectations. ¡°Could you sit for a bit? I¡¯m going to identify you.¡±

    ¡°Go ahead, Master. Be my guest.¡± Following Aurus¡¯mand, Fenrir sat on his behind, eagerly waiting for Aurus¡¯ nextmand.

    ¡°Identify Fenrir.¡±

    Ding!

    ________

    [Fenrir] (Level 1/70)

    Potential Grade: S

    Experience: 0/35 (can be filled with unused experience points)

    Species: Gale Wolf King Forminosus (Rare++)

    Existence Level: Inanimate

    Grade: S

    [HP]: 1700/1700

    [SP]: 550/550

    Stats:

    [Toughness]: 200

    [Thickness]: 210

    [Density]: 325

    Skills:

    [Gale King Burst Lv. 12], [Wolf King¡¯s Dignity Lv. 8], [Supreme Danger Instinct Lv. 21], [Gale Wolf King Spirit Core Lv. 7], [Supreme Wind Affinity Lv. 11], [Grand Tempest w Lv. 29], [Gale Wolf Clone Lv. 2], [Gale Wolf King¡¯s Fortress Lv. 12], [Gale Wolf Seed Lv.MAX], [Gale Wolf King Seed Lv. 1]

    Ally Skill: [Blessing of the Gale Wolf King]

    ________

    ¡°Although his HP is lower than mine by three times, that¡¯s just a given due to him not having the blessing of the alliance,¡± Aurus was extremely satisfied with the improvement Fenrir had after evolving to S-grade.

    ¡°Alright Fenrir, I¡¯m done. We¡¯re going back to the alliance now.¡± Closing the screen that housed Fenrir¡¯s status, Aurus said as he started to hover off the ground.

    ¡°Okay, Master.¡± Without a hint of resistance, Fenrir stood up and followed Aurus¡¯mand. But surprisingly, Fenrir then said, ¡°Anyways, Master, I wanted to ask you something.¡±

    ¡°What is it?¡± Aurus could not help but have a bit of shock as he did not expect Fenrir to ask him a question.

    ¡°Why haven¡¯t you summoned anotherpanion? Wouldn¡¯t that make you stronger, Master?¡± Since Fenrir was connected through the system, and he was looking out for his master, he could not help but bring this up.

    ¡°Ah, you¡¯re right.¡± After thinking about it for a bit, Fenrir was indeed correct. He had not touched the Ally system for a long time now¡­or rather, he had not touched it at all. Although he wanted to follow Fenrir¡¯s suggestion, he still had to take into consideration Fenrir¡¯s feelings. ¡°Are you okay with me having anotherpanion?¡±

    ¡°I only serve to protect and help the Master,¡± Fenrir replied. ¡°With morepanions, Master¡¯s safety would be more assured.¡±

    Extremely surprised with Fenrir¡¯s reply, Aurus could not help but say, ¡°Man, a single grade gave this much difference to a being¡¯s intelligence. Anyways¡­¡±

    ¡°System, open the Gacha.¡±

    Ding!

    In an instant, a screen appeared in front of him, revealing two columns that separated the two types of summoning.

    ¡°The Normal Gacha that needs 500 SP to summon once, or the Premium Gacha that needs 50 Life and Will points to summon once,¡± Aurus could not help but say, recalling that the requirements to summon had not changed at all.

    ¡°What¡¯s better?¡± Aurus mulled over his choices for a bit before summoning without hesitation.

    ¡°Of course, with the word Premium on it, how could you not choose it?!¡±

    Swoosh!

    In an instant, a magic circle was formed in midair, just a few decimeters away from Aurus and Fenrir¡¯s face. Bit by bit, the magic circle grewrger as it gradually took on the shade of red.

    A minuteter, the magic circle reached the maximum amount of energy it could hold, exploding into bits as a few particles remained from the magic circle, heading towards Aurus¡¯ body to be absorbed.

    Ding!

    ¡°I wonder what Ally I got¡­¡± Since he had not summoned an ally yet, he had high expectations for the gacha system for his allies. With his excitement at an all-time high, he opened up his notification log.

    ¡®You have obtained an Ally with SS-grade potential, [Burnt Twig]!¡¯

    ¡°¡­¡±

    ¡°¡­¡±

    ¡°Are you fucking serious?¡±

 Chapter 99: More than Meets the Eye

    Chapter 99: More than Meets the Eye

    Ding!

    ¡®You have obtained an Ally with SS-grade potential, [Burnt Twig].¡¯

    ¡°¡­¡± At first, Aurus was extremely excited with the new Ally he received from the system, seeing that the potential it held was SS-grade, a grade higher than Fenrir¡¯s. But when he read the name of the Ally he received, he could only be speechless at the utter disbelief one could feel when associating such a name to a grade.

    ¡°¡­¡± Although Fenrir could not see the name of the newpanion he would be with to protect his master, after feeling the aura that radiated from Aurus after he looked at his notifications, Fenrir could only stay silent, feeling that he might have wronged his master.

    Finally, around a minuteter, Aurus barely mustered out the words to ask a single question.

    ¡°Are you fucking serious?¡±

    After asking this question, Aurus could not help but sigh. While he was sighing, Fenrir could only move closer towards Aurus in a swaying manner, stammering in a soft yet somber voice, ¡°Did I¡­make the wrong choice, M-Master?¡±

    ¡°Hah¡­it¡¯s not your fault in this one, Fenrir.¡± Aurus tried to appease Fenrir¡¯s emotions, knowing very well that it was the system who gave him such an Ally. ¡°But man, my luck definitely sucks these past few days.¡±

    Although Aurus felt that it was weird for his luck to be this bad, he did not have even a smidget of a clue as to why this was the case, leaving him to shrug his nonexistent shoulders towards this problem and bear with it.

    If he knew that Kurohana¡¯s presence equated to his luck in Erudinia, then everything that felt off for him during these past few days would make sense, since Kurohana was the Goddess that governed over the Law of Reincarnation, allowing her to control a bit of the Immortal Verdict of Fate.

    ¡°You know what? I won¡¯t touch this system when I have incredibly bad luck,¡± Aurus promised himself inwardly while deciding to check Burnt Twig¡¯s appearance while they were still here.

    ¡°Hey Fenrir, do you want to see your newpanion?¡± With a slightly somber voice, Aurus looked at Fenrir and asked.

    Still feeling the aura radiated around Aurus, Fenrir let out a soft sigh, replying with, ¡°If you want to, Master.¡±

    ¡°Well, we¡¯re bound to see the guy sooner orter so why not.¡±

    ¡°Summon Burnt Twig.¡±

    Whoosh!

    With a small sh of light appearing in front of Aurus and Fenrir¡¯s field of vision not long after themand, Burnt Twig¡¯s full body appeared in front of the two in its whole entirety.

    ¡°Master¡­¡± Looking at Burnt Twig¡¯s body for a bit, Fenrir looked at Aurus and asked, ¡°Are you sure that¡¯s mypanion? It looks a bit¡­burnt.¡±

    ¡°Yes.¡± Aurus could only answer Fenrir¡¯s question with a serious tone. Not long after, Aurus could not maintain his serious fa?ade, sighing instead. ¡°Before we go back to the alliance, do you think we should check its stats?¡±

    ¡°Go ahead Master, I don¡¯t mind,¡± Fenrir voiced out his opinion towards Aurus¡¯ question.

    ¡°I hope it doesn¡¯t disappoint,¡± Aurus muttered to himself. ¡°Identify Burnt Twig.¡±

    Ding!

    Not long after, a status screen appeared in front of Aurus¡¯ field of vision. Alongside it was the information on Burnt Twig¡¯s Ally skill, allowing Aurus to skim over Burnt Twig¡¯s information.

    At first, Aurus could not help but have low expectations towards Burnt Twig¡¯s power, although knowing fully well that it was of SS-grade potential. But as he continued to read on, especially on Burnt Twig¡¯s Ally skill, his nonexistent eyes lit up as he could not help but scream, ¡°What the heck?! You can actually obtain that from an Ally?!¡±

    ________

    [Burnt Twig] (Level 1/10)

    Potential Grade: SS

    Experience: 0/10 (can be filled with unused experience points)

    Species: Twig Chardus Burnerei (Rare+)

    Existence Level: Inanimate

    Grade: C

    [HP]: 5/5

    [SP]: 3/3

    Stats:

    [me Body]: 3

    [Fuel]: 5

    [me Power]: 15

    Skills:

    [Charred Movement Lv.2], [Lowest Charred Energy Vessel Lv.3], [Charred me Shot Lv.1]

    Ally Skill: [Tempered Heart of Charred mes]

    ________

    ________

    [Tempered Heart of Charred mes]

    Grade: C (Mortal)

    Through unforeseen circumstances, a Twig that has been in close proximity with mes will undoubtedly burn. But this Twig¡¯s willpower allowed it to slowly obtain a tolerance toward mes and even the power to wield mes¡­at the cost of its body being extremely frail. Nheless, with this Twig¡¯s willpower being extremely strong, its power in turn is also strong.

    >Attack stat +20%

    >Obtain the skill [me Infusion] (grows in level as the Ally grows)

    >Obtain the skill [Charred Field] (grows in level as the Ally grows)

    ________

    ¡°What¡¯s wrong, Master?¡± Fenrir looked at Aurus¡¯ expression¡­well aura, feeling that the aura of severe disappointment was now reced with shock, but more importantly, excitement.

    ¡°Nothing¡¯s wrong at all! Yourpanion will definitely help you out in the near future!¡± Thinking of possible team ys with Fenrir at the nk and with this Burnt Twig beside him as they attack from afar, Aurus could not help but have his nonexistent blood boil.

    ¡°Eh? Is thispanion of mine really that good?¡± Fenrir could not help but still have doubts towards this Burnt Twig, since he could not see Burnt Twig¡¯s status screen.

    ¡°Just you wait, Fenrir.¡± Aurus decided to use his unused experience points to hastily boost up Burnt Twig¡¯s level and grade, a choice he did not do for Fenrir since it would definitely cost him a lot of experience to raised a being of his grade.

    ¡°System, use my unused experience points to max out Burnt Twig¡¯s level.¡±

    Ding!

    ¡®500 unused experience points have been deducted.¡¯

    ¡®[Burnt Twig] has reached the MAX level.¡¯

    ¡®[Burnt Twig] has reached the necessary requirements and is ready to evolve.¡¯

    ¡°Evolve Burnt Twig!¡± Seeing that Burnt Twig used up an extremely small part of his pool of experience, Aurus decided to evolve Burnt Twig to A-grade, and if possible, S-grade.

    Whoosh!

    Due to Burnt Twig being a C-grade Inanimate, its evolution did not take long at all, onlysting a few minutes before having a change in its body structure and aura that it radiated.

    At the instant its evolution was finished, Burnt Twig gradually turned its body around to look at Aurus before saying, ¡°Master. Firewood here, serve you.¡±

    ¡°Pfft.¡± After hearing Burnt Twig¡ªno, Firewood, introduce itself to him, he could not help but stifle hisughter, knowing fully well that his Ally was a wood-based Inanimate just like him, where it could not be helped that the names could be rted to wood.

    Aurus looked at Firewood for a bit, seemingly satisfied with the change. Its body grew bigger to be half of Aurus¡¯ body size, but it now hovered off the ground in a nted position as a small yet powerful ck me flickered on top of the side that was most off the ground.

    ¡°Do you want to protect me, F-Firewood?¡± Though Aurus was serious in asking the question, his Ally¡¯s name could not help but make him snigger a bit.

    ¡°Yes, until Firewood die!¡± Thankfully, Firewood did not differentiate between emotions at his current grade, only answering Aurus¡¯ question with sincerity.

    ¡°Since you¡¯re eager, system, use unused experience points to max out Firewood¡¯s level.¡±

    Ding!

    ¡®12000 unused experience points have been deducted.¡¯

    ¡®[Firewood] has reached the MAX level.¡¯

    ¡®[Firewood] has met the necessary requirements and is ready to evolve.¡¯

    ¡°Evolve Firewood!¡± Not even an instant has passed after the notification of Firewood reaching the maximum level, Aurusmanded the system to evolve Firewood once again, this time to A-grade.

    Whoosh!

    This time, Firewood took around ten minutes to evolve, with Aurus eagerly waiting for its change, while Fenrir was sitting on the sides, slight disbelief written on his face. ¡°It seems that¡­Master¡¯s words would turn out to be correct.¡±

    Although Aurus could not feel it, Fenrir felt it extremely well as he examined Firewood¡¯s full body, sensing the existence of an extremely dangerous power that would not harm him nor Aurus, but definitely harm the enemies that stood along their way. What Fenrir did not know was that, this power he felt was the potential grade of Firewood.

    Ten minutester, Firewood¡¯s new body revealed itself to both Aurus and Fenrir, shocking Aurus a bit since its new body looked extremely familiar to him.

    Compared to its previous body, Firewood now stood upright in exchange for its height shortened by a bit, though that did not mean that Firewood was now short. It reached Fenrir¡¯s chin quite easily.

    Not only that, it also had four rough limbs on its body, which could be said as the reason for its reduced height. The number of ck mes on its body increased from 1 to 9, one on its head, one on each limb, two on where its chest lied, and one on the gap between the two lower limbs.

    After seeing it for a short bit, Aurus could not help but say, ¡°Ah. Firewood¡¯s a female.¡±

    ¡°Greetings Master!¡± At the instant Aurus was finished talking, a cheerful and somewhat high-pitched voice could be hearding from Firewood, its¡­well, her head me slightly intensifying a bit to show her excitement. ¡°Firewood is my previous form¡¯s name, you can call me Charisa merei, Charisa for short.¡±

    ¡°Well¡­nice to meet you Charisa,¡± Aurus could only go along with the girl¡¯s words, since not long after, Charisa¡¯s head me intensified by several times, growing in excitement.

    ¡°Aaaaa!!! I have a lot of things to say to you Master after evolving into this form! I want to ask you a lot of things as well! I also want to do a lot of things with you as well! And then! And then¡­!¡± With her heightened excitement, Charisa started to blurt out a lot of words she would never have said in her B-grade form, and that¡¯s not taking into consideration the level of intelligence she had.

    Then again, Aurus hurriedly evolved him from B-grade, so he did have the feeling that Charisa was going to be subservient, but this¡­this was way out of his expectations.

    Slightly coughing at Charisa¡¯s words, Aurus could only radiate a slightly cheerful aura as he said, ¡°If you don¡¯t mind Charisa, can I see your stats?¡±

    ¡°Ah!¡± While she was rambling on about what she wanted to do with Aurus, Aurus asked her a question, prompting Charisa to stop before nodding with her head me, replying with, ¡°Go ahead, Master!¡±

    Charisa then went silent for a bit as she kneeled down on the ground, her mes slightly dimming down in order for Aurus to get closer.

    Seeing this, Aurus could not help but mutter a soft ¡®Thanks¡¯ from the side beforemanding the system, ¡°Identify Charisa.¡±

    Ding!

    Just like before in Charisa¡¯s C-grade form, two screens appeared in front of Aurus, revealing her stats, as well the details of her Ally skill, to which Aurus could not help but exude an extremely cheerful aura, dreaming of the multiple possibilities and choices he now had in battling.

    ¡°My small investment was definitely worth it!¡±

    ________

    [Charisa merei] (Level 1/50)

    Potential Grade: SS

    Experience: 0/25 (can be filled with unused experience points)

    Species: Lesser Treantis Formosus ¡ª Sentient Charisadae (Epic)

    Existence Level: Inanimate

    Grade: A

    [HP]: 110/110

    [SP]: 200/200

    Stats:

    [me Body]: 40

    [Fuel]: 45

    [me Power]: 105

    Skills:

    [Darkme Flight Lv. 15], [Boundless Darkme Energy Vessel Lv. MAX], [Charred me Symphony Lv. 8], [Darkme Spirit Core Lv. 8], [Middle-Low Darkme Spell Core Lv. 4], [Charred Sacrifice Lv. 7], [Unyielding me Lv. 3], [ming Escape Lv. 4], [me Immunity Lv. 8], [Sentient Charisadae Seed Lv.1]

    Ally Skill: [Unyielding Soul of True Darkme]

    ________

    ________

    [Unyielding Soul of True Darkme]

    Grade: A (Mortal)

    With the Twig¡¯s tempered heart being evolved to greater degrees, this allows formation of a Lesser Treant with the sentience of a being higher than one grade. Not only that, this Lesser Treant has extremely strong willpower, as well as great control and immunity over mes that hold a greater power over normal mes. Who knows how high the Lesser Treant¡¯s ambitions will be.

    >Attack stat +100%

    >Obtain the skill [Darkme Maniption] (grows in level as the Ally grows)

    >Obtain the skill [Supreme Field of Darkme] (grows in level as the Ally grows)

    ________

 Chapter 100: Lets Go Hunt!

    Chapter 100: Let¡¯s Go Hunt!

    While Aurus and Fenrir, including their newpanion Charisa, was inside the Tempest Cliff Inheritance, checking out Charisa¡¯s Ally skill¡­

    Within XXXX Continent, Seraph Kingdom, Kelsey¡¯s Smithy, a few days ago.

    ¡°With the humans creating an exquisite de exuding great affinity for Wind, this de has been blessed by the Lesser God of Wind.¡± A faint voice could be heard resounding throughout the entirety of Kelsey¡¯s smithy as a ray of light shone down upon Magnus Tempestria, the masterwork Kelsey and Dane have created.

    Due to the Lesser God¡¯s superiority in terms of power, his faint voice, which was intentionally soft, became intensified in the ears of the two, signalling an announcement that was loud and clear, enough to shock the two.

    A few secondster, the ray of light shining upon the de gradually dissipated, yet the mark left by the Lesser God of Wind that blessed the de was left behind, with the de¡¯s Wind aura being greatly intensified afterwards as the sign of its blessing.

    The two of them could only stand where they were, utterly speechless at the thing that happened just now. After a moment, Dane stifly turned his head around to look at Kelsey, who coincidentally saw Kelsey turn her head around to look at him.

    They looked at each other with a deafening silence, only for this silence to be broken from Kelsey¡¯s stammering.

    ¡°D-D-Did I just w-w-witness¡­¡±

    Although Kelsey was the one who broke the silence, she could not finish her sentence, letting Dane stammer as well. ¡°T-The b-blessing of a G-G-God¡­¡±

    After that, the two of them stayed silent for a bit more, in utter disbelief at the thing that happened.

    After all, they were only people that have reached their respective Rank 4 sses, not even close to warranting the attention of Gods that govern their world. They would understand such an urrence if they were of a Rank 6 ss or higher since one would have slight control of thews of the world, but this¡­

    This was just unbelievable for the both of them.

    Thud.

    Since she could not tolerate the feeling anymore, Kelsey¡¯s knees that shivered at the utter disbelief of the situation, could only kneel down on the floor with a thud, looking down at the floor for a bit before looking at the ceiling, tears welling up in her eyes.

    ¡°Aaaaahhh!!! I can die without regrets now!¡±

    With the feelings in her heart reaching their zenith, these feelings finally burst out of her mouth, screaming in a way that mixed disbelief with intense happiness.

    As for Dane, due to his ss being part of those who need to have a calm and collected mind at all times, he controlled his urge to kneel down on the ground, insteadughing loudly as he said, ¡°Hahaha! To think that we would elicit the attention of a God! This is¡­unbelievable!¡±

    After this, they continued tough as their emotions started to die down, returning to a normal state a few minutester.

    With their emotions back to normal, Dane looked at Kelsey for a bit before grabbing Magnus Tempestria from the anvil where it lied. ¡°Do you mind if I identify its properties?¡±

    Kelsey, with a smile on her face, shook her head as she replied, ¡°I don¡¯t mind at all, go ahead. Thanks to you, I was able to obtain the attention of a God.¡±

    With a smile on his face, Dane picked Magnus Tempestria up from the hilt and held it up, facing the sunlight radiating from the window. As the sunlight radiated the grooves filled with Wind energy particles, he could not help but say, ¡°What a good de.¡±

    ¡°3rd Circle. Weapon Appraisal,¡± Dane muttered as he raised his other hand to face the weapon, creating aplex magic circle in a matter of seconds.

    Due to him using the spell multiple times, he was able to reduce the amount of time and sybles needed to cast the spell, into what seemed to be an instant for others as he only needed to utter the name of the spell.

    Whoosh!

    Not long after, magic runes started to float out of the weapon, arranging themselves in midair ording to Dane¡¯s wishes as he did not have any parchment with him. Nheless, that did not affect Dane¡¯s reading as he was quite satisfied, even exhrated at the properties of the weapon.

    ________

    [Magnus Tempestria]

    Grade: Grand ¡ª Blessed

    Durability: 1500/1500

    A masterwork weapon created by an extremelypetent cksmith and an extremely erudite mage using Spirit Star Steel and Gale Dragon Wood, this weapon allows a normal person to wield the might of an ascended being, even having the hopes of fighting against them evenly.

    >Attack +200-325

    >Movement Speed +10%

    >Attack Speed +25%

    >Evasion +25%

    >Obtain ess to [Wind Dragon¡¯s Four Forms]

    >Obtain [Lesser Wind God¡¯s Blessing]

    ________

    ¡°Kelsey, thank you very much for helping me craft this weapon.¡± Removing the runes that floated in midair after reading, Dane turned to look at Kelsey before bowing down with respect. Kelsey, on the other hand, hurriedly stood up from where he was and waved her hands profusely, saying, ¡°Don¡¯t mention it, don¡¯t mention it. It¡¯s just what I do best.¡±

    ¡°Although we did not expect that a god would bless such a weapon, I now have greater hopes in the Ninth Prince¡¯s chances of obtaining the throne.¡± Dane smiled as he opened up a rift, cing Magnus Tempestria inside said rift before closing it.

    ¡°Tell the Ninth Prince that I¡¯m rooting for him.¡± Kelsey smiled back as she grabbed a piece of metal from a nearby crate before putting it inside the furnace. She then waved her hands, saying, ¡°Go on then. The more proficient the Ninth Prince is with the sword, the better.¡±

    ¡°Hehe.¡± Dane chuckled. ¡°I won¡¯t disturb any further then.¡±

    And with that, Dane left the smithy, heading towards the Ninth Prince¡¯s pce.

    ¡­

    A few hourster, within the Seraph Kingdom¡¯s castle.

    Dane arrived outside the walls of the castle and was about to head inside, before he was stopped by a group of guards.

    ¡°Esteemed Sir, might I ask about your purpose in entering the castle?¡± Sensing the powerful aura Dane radiated, the guard that asked Dane maintained a polite tone.

    ¡°I¡¯m here on orders of the Ninth Prince, His Highness Vanadir,¡± Dane did not mind the guards blocking him at all, since it assured the royal family¡¯s safety. ¡°I am here to bring a weapon that His Highness had requested to be crafted by the Master cksmith, Kelsey.¡±

    Seeing that Dane was collected and felt that there were no lies in his words, the guard who asked Dane gestured the other guards to make his way as he bowed respectfully, saying, ¡°I see, Esteemed Sir. We have just received a message from the Ninth Prince himself about your permission to enter his room, so we shan¡¯t bar you from going in further.¡±

    ¡°Do note though that you are not allowed to head to other areas, save for the Ninth Prince¡¯s room,¡± the guard added as he looked at Dane with a polite expression.

    ¡°Thank you for the reminder,¡± Dane replied back with a smile and a nod, before walking towards the inside of the castle, hastily heading towards the Ninth Prince¡¯s room.

    ¡­

    Seraph Kingdom, Ninth Prince¡¯s room.

    Knock, knock, knock.

    Hearing someone knocking on the door of his room, Vanadir stood up from his chair near the room¡¯s bay window, walking towards the door as he asked, ¡°Who is it?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s me, Your Highness.¡± On the other side of the door, an extremely familiar voice to him replied, causing him to unconsciously hasten his steps as he opened the door to reveal Dane with his robes from the Arcana Tower on.

    With a smile on his face, Vanadir gestured Dane to enter his room as he said, ¡°Come in,e in.¡±

    ¡­

    A few minutester, Dane and Vanadir sat on chairs that faced each other, with a teapot filled to the brim with the most fragrant tea, alongside teacups, on a table that parted each of them. Vanadir took a sip from his teacup before asking Dane, ¡°So, what brings you here?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m sure you¡¯ve heard it already from the guards, Your Highness, going so far as to sense my presence.¡± Dane smiled as he grabbed his teacup, sipping a bit before saying, ¡°Good tea.¡±

    ¡°Hehe.¡± Vanadir chuckled before extending his arm as he said, ¡°Let me see the weapon you crafted.¡±

    Snap.

    With a snap of his fingers, a rift in space appeared just a few centimeters above Vanadir¡¯s extended arm, Magnus Tempestria falling from the rift not long after.

    With the prince¡¯s heightened reflexes, he was able to grab Magnus Tempestria from the hilt, instantly feeling the sense of being one with the de as his ss resonated with the sword. His eyes could not help but light up as he said, ¡°Good sword.¡±

    ¡°The name of the sword is Magnus Tempestria, imbued with an original spell I created that was tailored just for you,¡± Dane said as he looked at Vanadir¡¯s excited expression. ¡°As for the materials used, I¡¯m afraid I was not able to capture that Wind Walnut Branch, instead using Gale Dragon Wood as an alternative.¡±

    Of course, that Wind Walnut Branch referred to Aurus in his B-grade form. Although Dane knew that Aurus became a Spiritas, he was still unable to catch him and use him as a weapon material, leaving him no choice but to use an alternative instead.

    ¡°Nheless, this is still a great sword, I feel like it was like the gods gave it to me,¡± Vanadir did not mind Dane¡¯s failure in obtaining the Wind Walnut Branch since the sword was still of excellent quality. ¡°What grade is this sword if you don¡¯t mind me asking?¡±

    ¡°Grand grade,¡± Dane did not beat around the bush as he answered, which elicited a shocked expression from Vanadir. ¡°G-G-Grand grade? Only eldest brother has ownership of a Grand grade weapon, and it¡¯s not evenparable to the quality of this one!¡±

    Seeing the shocked expression on Vanadir¡¯s face, Dane decided to tell him one more thing about the weapon. ¡°Not only that, Your Highness. This weapon was also¡­blessed by a God!¡±

    Bang.

    As if a firework had exploded in his mind, Vanadir was unable to process Dane¡¯s words for a bit, left in an utter loss for words as he looked at the de he held with his hand, slightly trembling at the utter disbelief he felt.

    A few secondster, Vanadir¡¯s eyes regained its rity as he gripped on the hilt of the sword tighter than before. He then stood up from his seat and took a few steps back before saying to Dane, ¡°Let¡¯s go hunt beasts!¡±

    Dane, who was sipping on his tea, could not help but stop midway as he slowly ced his teacup down, asking, ¡°I beg your pardon?¡±

    Clearing his throat, Vanadir repeated his words one more time, with each word slightly louder than thest.

    ¡°Let¡¯s¡­¡±

    ¡°Go¡­¡±

    ¡°Hunt!¡±

 Chapter 101: A Problem Amidst the Shadows

    Chapter 101: A Problem Amidst the Shadows

    Within the Celestial ne, Hall of Greater Divinity.

    ¡°Since you¡¯re so cooperative, I¡¯ve decided to choose missions that barelyplete the punishment.¡± Nix smiled as she waved her hands in midair, three motes of light appearing in front of her body a few secondster.

    She then tapped on the centermost mote of light as it burst out, sending a surge of information towards Kurohana¡¯s mind. Thankfully, Kurohana was prepared for this thing due to her being used to epting missions this way.

    ¡°The first mission you shall undertake is to¡­¡± Nix opened her mouth while Kurohana was digesting the mission¡¯s information.

    ¡°To satiate the built up lust umted by the Greater God of Pleasure, as well as find the crux of why it has umted.¡±

    ¡°Eh?¡± After hearing Nix¡¯s words just as she finished digesting the mission information, Kurohana could not help but blush a little bit at the type of mission she just received. She looked at Nix with a slightly embarassed expression as she asked, ¡°Isn¡¯t this mission a bit too¡­vulgar?¡±

    ¡°If it were vulgar, then I would not have picked this mission for you,¡± Nix lightly smiled, not feeling annoyed at the fact that this question was asked. If she were in Kurohana¡¯s ce, it would be weird for her to not ask the same question as well. ¡°Although I can solve it quickly without a problem, you know I¡¯m quite busy, and I¡¯m sure you¡¯re going to finish this mission at a rate that isn¡¯t that much slower than mine.¡±

    Though Kurohana still had a few more questions to ask, Kurohana decided to keep these questions to herself, biting her lips as she nodded to Nix¡¯s words. ¡°I hope it is as you say, Hallmaster.¡±

    She then looked at Phatia, who was beside her, and kneeled down as she said, ¡°Do not worry, Big Sister, I, Kurohana, shall definitely finish her punishment to its end.¡±

    As if she had a change of heart, Phatia lightly sighed as she patted Kurohana¡¯s shoulder. ¡°I wish you the best of luck.¡±

    Nodding to Phatia¡¯s words afterwards, Kurohana turned around to face the entrance of the hall before starting to hover off the ground. With a light whoosh sound, Kurohana was gone from the insides of the hall a few secondster.

    Looking at the faint silhouette left behind by Kurohana, Nix and Phatia looked at each other for a bit in silence. Not long after, this silence was broken by Phatia.

    ¡°The mission you sent out isn¡¯t that simple as I think, is that right?¡± With a rare slight smile on her face, Phatia asked.

    ¡°Of course, considering how long she has been a Greater God, she is quite close to reaching a level of power that won¡¯t lose out to me, although she still has a ways to go topletely mastering herw,¡± Nix replied with a light smile, an expression that seemed like she did not care what was going to happen about. ¡°Anyways, it¡¯s just a small problem with the Demons, nothing to worry about.¡±

    ¡°Demons?¡± At the instant she heard this word, Phatia could not help but frown lightly. ¡°How far have they gotten into affecting our territory?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s at a level that¡¯s between not serious and quite a problem. Some of the Lesser Gods in our territory have been captured by the temptations of the Demons, with the Primordial Sin of Greed and Lust being the most prevalent sin they¡¯ve acquired.¡± Seeing the serious expression on Phatia¡¯s face, Nix could not keep her smiling fa?ade, deciding to be serious as well.

    ¡°Have Depraved Deities appeared yet?¡± Thinking about it for a bit, Phatia replied.

    Depraved Deities were just like the name suggests, Gods who have great control over a Principle or a Law, who have then sumbed to the temptations of the Primordial Sins, being possessed by the Sin themselves.

    ¡°That¡¯s why I sent Kurohana to that mission, we¡¯ve caught wind of a Depraved Deity manipting the Greater God of Pleasure, nning to create a True Demon God from it,¡± Nix replied at the next instant Phatia was finished asking.

    ¡°A True Demon God, huh¡­¡± Phatia could not help but repeat those words softly. Not long after, she then started to hover off the ground as she turned around, saying, ¡°If she everes back alive from this mission, remove the remaining 2 missions from her punishment, since we both know that the difficulty of this mission is nearing Greater Divine level already.¡±

    ¡°I must report this to the other Wielders, as well as the Overseers,¡± Phatia looked at Nix for a bit before saying, ¡°Thanks for letting me know.¡±

    Whoosh!

    At the instant Phatia was finished with her words of gratitude, she was already gone from the hall, thousands of kilometers away from the hall already, heading towards the other Wielders to talk about this problem.

    As for Nix, she could only stand there for a bit and sigh lightly. Turning around, she could not help but mutter with a light smile, ¡°As usual Phatia, you¡¯re kind towards your people. If only many other Gods were like you, then we wouldn¡¯t be taken over by the Demons again and again.¡±

    Not long after, Nix disappeared from where she stood, returning the hall back to its previous lull.

    ¡­

    Since Kurohana was a Greater God herself, she took note of the locations of the other Greater Gods¡¯ pces, especially those Greater Gods who wield immense strength, or those who were her rivals.

    The Greater God of Pleasure, whose name is Chad, is one of those Greater Gods who wield immense strength, letting Kurohanamit the location of Chad¡¯s pce to memory.

    With her peak speed, she was able to reach Chad¡¯s pce within an hour or so, knowing fully well that it was not far away from the Hall of Greater Divinity.

    ¡­

    A few minutester, Chad¡¯s pce was brought into Kurohana¡¯s view, letting her see a floatingnd filled with marble buildings, as well as statues that exuded a natural aura of joy and love. If one were to look at it from afar, one would notice that all of these buildings and statues were ced in a way that looked akin to a formation.

    Swish!

    Step. Step. Step.

    Landing carefully on the ind, Kurohana started to walk towards the insides of the ind while shouting, ¡°Chad, where are you?¡±

    ¡°Chad?¡±

    ¡°Chad!¡±

    With the help of her own powers, Kurohana¡¯s voice was heard throughout the whole ind, eliciting a soft groan that was at the same loudness as Kurohana¡¯s, yet was weaker by a soft bit, followed up with a, ¡°I¡¯ll be there in just¡­a bit.¡±

    Finally hearing a response, Kurohana decided to stay where she was and waited for Chad toe see her.

    Step. Step. Step.

    Around ten minutester of looking at the buildings surrounding her, Kurohana could hear the sounds of faint footsteps gradually bing louder, prompting Kurohana to look at the silhouette that appeared in front of her.

    This silhouette was none other than Chad, a man who wore a tuxedo at all times, somewhat contradicting when thinking about thew Chad governs over. His muscles could be seen etched under the tuxedo, albeit slightly. As for his face, due to his mastery over the Law of Pleasure, his face was definitely at a level of handsome worth dying for.

    At this moment in time, a slight grimace could be seen on Chad¡¯s face as he hunched over, covering a certain part of his body with both hands. Due to this, Kurohana could not help but look at the direction of his hands, only for her to look upwards not long after.

    Chad could not help but look at Kurohana for a bit, eliciting a pained expression from him not long after as he mustered a few words of greetings. ¡°Nice to meet you¡­Kurohana.¡±

    ¡°I apologize foring here with this appearance, Chad,¡± Seeing the pained expression on Chad¡¯s face, Kurohana could not help but apologize. She then snapped her fingers afterwards, turning the white dress she wore into a pristine white tuxedo, while her body changed into that of a man, thanks to her mastery over the Law of Reincarnation. ¡°Would this appearance be better for your problem?¡± Kurohana asked, her voice slightly lower than before.

    Seeing that Kurohana adapted to his problem, Chad could not help but give a wry smile as he said, ¡°Thanks.¡± He then asked, ¡°Are you here because of the mission I sent out?¡±

    ¡°Yeah, if you don¡¯t mind, can I take a look and see if I can solve it?¡± Kurohana nodded as he replied.

    ¡°Go ahead,¡± Chad sighed once more as he replied. ¡°I don¡¯t hold that much hope in you fixing my problem, I¡¯ve seen the Greater God of Healing already, and she can¡¯t even solve this problem at all. I thought it was just my yang [1] being imbnced, but it turns out, it was not.¡±

    While listening to Chad¡¯s words, Kurohana used her consciousness to look at the insides of Chad¡¯s body, especially at the area where life would blossom. From their first meeting, Kurohana already felt something off from Chad, and with her consciousness, she was able to pinpoint it down to hisher regions.

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡± Closing her eyes, she tried to sense what the problem was with hisher regions, only for her to abruptly open her eyes afterwards as she muttered a soft ¡°Eh?¡±

    ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡± Chad, of course, did not ignore this surprised expression from Kurohana, prompting him to ask this question.

    With a small frown on her face, Kurohana replied, ¡°The problem is way worse than I thought. To think that you¡¯ve been casted with a Demonic Seal!¡±

    ¡°Wait¡­¡± Chad took a short while to process this reply, only for him to reply afterwards with a shocked ¡°What?!¡±

    ¡°There¡¯s no mistake, I¡¯ve fought against the Demons before, the way they create their seals is definitely different from ours,¡± Kurohana replied with a serious expression. Probing a bit further, she could not help but grit her teeth. ¡°Not only that, there are two Demonic Seals casted on your body!¡±

    ¡°Eh?!¡± Chad¡¯s expression became more surprised, giving way to him slumping down on the ground. ¡°Does that mean¡­I¡¯m going to be a True Demon God?¡±

    If Lesser Gods that have been corrupted by the Primordial Sin are known as Depraved Deities, then Greater Gods that have been corrupted by the Primordial Sin are known as True Demon Gods instead.

    Kurohana shook her head to Chad¡¯s question, assuring Chad as she replied with, ¡°Not at all. The Seals casted on you are in their beginning stages, not even enough to corrupt you. It might take some time, but your problem will be solved for sure.¡±

    ¡°Anyways, the two seals on your body are of a sun and a moon, do you have any idea as to which God casted this on you?¡± Kurohana looked at Chad¡¯s eyes, only for Chad¡¯s eyes to be filled with disbelief.

    ¡°Hinari and Hodazuka?! That¡¯s impossible!¡± Chad could not help but cry out.

    Hearing these two names, Kurohana could not help but frown.

    ¡°The Lesser Goddess of the Sun and the Lesser God of the Moon¡­¡±

    ¡°It seems that Nix¡¯s guess wasn¡¯t based off assumptions.¡±

    ¡°This might jeopardize the safety of the whole Celestial ne if I let it be more serious.¡±

    ¡ª¡ª¨C

    [1] Yang, known as the element that counteracts yin, is the sign of extreme masculinity.

 Chapter 102: Heading Back

    Chapter 102: Heading Back

    Extremely satisfied with Charisa¡¯s Ally skill, Aurus looked at Charisa, who was still kneeling down, with a nonexistent smile as he said, ¡°I hope you don¡¯t let me down, Charisa.¡±

    Charisa, on the other hand, after hearing these words, stood up as her mes intensified a bit as her head me bobbed up and down, saying, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Master! I¡¯m sure that I¡¯ll be of great service to you!¡±

    ¡°For now, I shall be hiding you from other Inanimates. I will only reveal you once you reach S-grade, is that fine with you?¡± Aurus radiated an aura of affirmation as he asked Charisa this question.

    ¡°As long as you summon me when needed Master, then I don¡¯t mind at all. I feel like an extremely special being when I think of it from another perspective!¡± With some weird optimism, Charisa shrugged her wooden shoulders with her head me radiating an aura of happiness.

    ¡°Alright, I won¡¯t forget to summon you. Also, you can talk with me anytime,¡± Feeling that Charisa might get lonely if she was inside the system, Aurus tried to reassure her emotions, to which Charisa responded with an ¡°Un!¡± as her head me intensified in luminosity.

    Not long after, with Aurus¡¯mand towards the system, Charisa disappeared from both Aurus and Fenrir¡¯s field of vision, leaving the two of them alone within the green jade hall.

    ¡°So Fenrir.¡± This time, Aurus looked at Fenrir, who was still sitting on the ground respectfully, before asking, ¡°Wanna go back to the alliance now?¡±

    Fenrir, hearing his master¡¯s question, stood up and shook his body for a bit like a real wolf, before answering with a slightly happy tone, ¡°As long as you¡¯re happy, Master.¡±

    ¡°Then¡­¡±

    ¡°Let¡¯s go back!¡±

    After saying this, Aurusmanded the inheritance through the system to let the two of them leave. A few secondster, a soft rumbling sound resonated throughout the green jade hall they were in as they were covered in green light not long after. A few seconds after that, any trace of the two disappeared from the green jade hall, leaving the hall into its previous state of silence.

    ¡­

    Around a minuteter, Aurus and Fenrir appeared on the center of the magic circle that served as the entrance to the Tempest Cliff Inheritance. They looked at each other for a bit before heading back to the base of the Tempest Branch Alliance.

    Whoosh!

    With Aurus¡¯ speed being boosted by multiple things, one would think that Fenrir would not be able to catch up with Aurus, but that was definitely not the case. With the help of Aurus¡¯ buffs and his innately faster movement speed, Fenrir was able to maintain the same movement speed as Aurus, reducing their journey time to around ten minutes or so.

    While travelling back to the base, Aurus could not help but look at the running Fenrir and ask, ¡°Hey Fenrir, now that I think about it, I haven¡¯t checked your Ally skill yet. Do you mind if I check?¡±

    ¡°Go ahead, Master,¡± Fenrir replied with a happy tone that was quite contradicting to his current expression of seriousness. ¡°I don¡¯t mind it at all.¡±

    ¡°Alright then,¡± Aurus replied. ¡°Identify Fenrir¡¯s Ally skill.¡±

    Ding!

    Not a momentter, a screen regarding the details of Fenrir¡¯s Ally skill appeared in front of Aurus¡¯ field of vision as he continued to fly. After a moment of skimming through Fenrir¡¯s Ally skill, Aurus became extremely dumbfounded as he could not help but mutter, ¡°What the heck?!¡±

    ________

    [Blessing of the Gale Wolf King]

    Grade: S (Mortal)

    A Gale Wolf King, leader of the Gale Wolves, not only superior in terms of intelligence, but in terms of attack power and speed as well, allowing them to rule over tens to hundreds of Gale Wolves at once without a problem. Their greater control over Wind energy particles whenpared to normal Gale Wolves also allow them to move in an irregr manner, fooling many predators.

    >Perception range +50%

    >Movement speed +200%

    >Attack and Vitality stat +50%

    >Obtain the skill [Gale Wolf King¡¯s Jurisdiction] (grows in level as the Ally grows)

    ________

    ¡°Not only has my Vitality and Attack stat increased by 20%, my movement speed has been increased by 80% as well!¡± Aurus could not help but scream out in disbelief, looking at Fenrir, who was maintaining the same movement speed all this time. This time, Aurus could not help but look at Fenrir like a monster, easily catching up with his greatly increased movement speed.

    ¡°The Ally skill even gives out an extra skill!¡± Aurus continued to scream out, looking at Fenrir for a bit before saying, ¡°Fenrir, thank you for being mypanion!¡±

    ¡°Eh?¡± Fenrir was caught off guard by that statement, thankfully he was able topose himself quickly as he replied with a slight smile¡­well a smile for wolves. ¡°D-Don¡¯t mention it, Master.¡±

    ¡°Let¡¯s check out what this skill does, and since there¡¯s still some time, let¡¯s also check the other skills Charisa¡¯s Ally skill gave me,¡± Aurus decided to check the skills he received from both Fenrir and Charisa¡¯s Ally skills.

    ¡°Identify [Gale Wolf King¡¯s Jurisdiction].¡±

    Ding!

    _________

    [Gale Wolf King¡¯s Jurisdiction]

    Grade: S (Mortal)

    A Gale Wolf King, known to boast great intelligence, power, and speedpared to other Gale Wolves. Not only that, Gale Wolf Kings also have a special power to conjure their own field of power around themselves through the use of Wind energy particles, suppressing the powers of their prey.

    >Attack and Movement Speed of allies is boosted by 20% under the influence of the field

    >Evasion of the caster is boosted by 30% under the influence of the field

    >Can stack with other fields

    Duration: 10 minutes

    Radius: 10 meters

    SP Cost: 500 SP

    Cooldown: 1 hour

    ________

    ¡°Oh? Can stack with other fields?¡± Aurus took note of this part of the skill, muttering after a bit. ¡°I haven¡¯t used [Spirit Aura] yet now that I think about it. Will theyplement each other? I don¡¯t know.¡±

    ¡°Identify [Darkme Maniption].¡± Aurus then moved onto the two skills offered by Charisa¡¯s Ally skill. He chose to identify [Darkme Maniption] because he felt that this skill would surprise him.

    Ding!

    ________

    [Darkme Maniption]

    Grade: A (Mortal)

    When mes have been possessed by a being, they begin to change from red to a greater color. When mes turn ck, that means that its main purpose is to destroy anything that barred its path. With the owner¡¯s extremely strong willpower, the prowess of the darkme¡¯s power is increased substantially, allowing it to triumph over other darkmes.

    >Allows the infusion of darkme into skills

    >When used in offensive skills, inflicts [Chaos Burn] and [Chaos Defense Down] on the enemy for 5 seconds

    >When used in defensive skills, inflicts [Chaos Reflect] and [Chaos Lifesteal] to the skill

    >When used in healing skills, inflicts [Chaos Regeneration] to the user or ally for 10 seconds

    >When used in movement skills, increases movement speed by 10%

    SP Cost per second: 5 SP

    Cooldown: 30 seconds

    ________

    ¡°It seems that my hunch is correct,¡± Aurus could not help but say as he thought of thebinations he could do with [Darkme Maniption].

    ¡°And now, identify [Supreme Field of Darkme],¡± Aurusmanded with haste as he noticed that only a kilometer separated him and Fenrir from the entrance of the base.

    Ding!

    ________

    [Supreme Field of Darkme]

    Grade: A (Mortal)

    Darkme, whose sole purpose is destroy everything in its path. Once one obtains great control over darkme, one can peer into its innate spells, allowing the user to cause extreme chaos to multiple beings.

    >Inflicts [Chaos Burn] and [Chaos Defense Down] to enemies within the field

    >Increases the user¡¯s Attack stat by 10% within the field

    >Can stack with other fields

    Duration: 5 minutes

    SP Cost: 1500 SP

    Cooldown: 4 hours

    ________

    ¡°This is also a passive field skill just like [Spirit Aura] and [Gale Wolf King¡¯s Jurisdiction],¡± Aurus said to himself. ¡°And it can stack with other fields¡­¡±

    ¡°How great would it be if I could use all of them at once?¡± Aurus could not help but radiate an aura of excitement as he thought of the possibilties. Sadly, his happiness was cut short as he and Fenrir arrived at the entrance of the Tempest Branch Alliance¡¯s base.

    Swoosh!

    While still at the entrance of the base, Aurus looked at Fenrir and decided to keep him for now, since he did not want to alert others to Fenrir¡¯s presence. Thankfully, Fenrir did not have second thoughts to this and allowed Aurus to keep him in the system. After doing such did Aurus finally continue travelling inside the alliance, arriving at therge hall not long after.

    ¡°Hello?¡± Aurus shouted out, wanting to get the attention of his fellow alliance members.

    ¡°Hey Horell, are you there?¡± After sensing that no one was answering his question, Aurus decided to shout out Horell¡¯s name¡­only for it to not be responded. He repeated this question a few more times, only for it to end up bing futile.

    ¡°That¡¯s weird,¡± Aurus said to himself. ¡°Usually, Horell would instantly reply to my calls. Is he out right now?¡±

    Whoosh!

    Not long after asking this question, a silhouette appeared a few meters away from Aurus, eliciting a surprised response from Aurus as it was not the being he expected. ¡°Eh? Herellia? Where¡¯s Horell?¡±

    Rather than responding to his question, Herellia¡¯s aura that was solemn, suddenly turned into one filled with slight rage as the blood red engravings covering his body started toe to life, transforming into arge blood tendril that extended ten meters above her body.

    Seeing this, Aurus felt that something off. Slowly hovering backwards, Aurus asked, ¡°W-What¡¯s with the tendril, Herellia? Did I do something wrong?¡±

    Of course, Herellia did not respond at all. Instead, she waved this blood red tendril down as she muttered¡­

    ¡°[Supreme Sanguine Art: Rupture].¡±

    Swoosh!

    At the speed the tendril was moving down, Aurus had no hope at dodging it, hence he decided to defend as much as he could.

    ¡°[Darkme Maniption]!¡±

    ¡°[Barrier of the Spiritas]!¡±

    ¡°Combine!¡±

    ¡°[Darkme Spirit Barrier: Maximum Defense]!¡±

    Whoosh!

    In an instant, a barrier tinged with the flickering of darkme here and there appeared on Aurus¡¯ body just before the blood red tendril collided with Aurus¡¯ body.

    Bang!

    Surprisingly, Aurus¡¯ barrier, that had already been operating at maximum defense, as well as it being infused with darkme, was broken from just the collision of the blood red tendril and the barrier alone. Aurus was then blown a few meters backward as he tried to regain his stability. This made Aurus feel a small part of Herellia¡¯s true strength, which definitely outstripped her previous prowess of power towards Loran.

    But that did not mean that Herellia did not suffer as well, thanks to the special effects darkme brought to the barrier, a part of the damage Herellia dealt to Aurus was received by her, eliciting a soft groan from her. After that, she raised her tendril upwards once more, waiting to find a possibility to attack Aurus.

    As for Aurus, he could not help but look at the current situation with confusion. Just because he left, Herellia was now attacking him?

    ¡°What the heck is going on?!¡±

 Chapter 103: Aurus vs. Herellia

    Chapter 103: Aurus vs. Herellia

    ¡°What the heck is going on?!¡± Although he had a lot of questions he wanted to ask Herellia at this instant, he knew what he had to do at this moment.

    Survive, and calm Herellia down.

    As dust was scattered thanks to collision of Herellia¡¯s blood red tendril and his darkme barrier, Aurus was able to easily distance himself from Herellia, activating [Zenith Spirit Transcendence], which he could not activate earlier due to suddenness of her attack.

    Just as Aurus was about to locate Herellia¡¯s current position, his decision was cut short as he sensed Herellia¡¯s blood red tendril moving in a sweeping manner as it got close to his body.

    ¡°[Supreme Sanguine Art: Reap].¡±

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    As usual, due to Herellia¡¯s superior movement speed, Aurus was not easily able to path out the trajectory of the tendril, only relying on his tempered instincts and reflexes to dodge both. Fortunately, even though the tendril could reach out to whatever height Aurus was hovering at, Aurus would always fly higher before the tendril could reach him.

    Currently, Aurus was now around 15 meters above the ground, only 10 more meters remained between him and the ceiling of the hall. He looked at Herellia for a bit and heard the click of a nonexistent tongue from her as she started to hover off the ground as well. Not long after, the extremely big blood red tendril that she used to attack Aurus was now split into 5 smaller and thinner blood red tendrils, but their length was still the same.

    Using this time of respite to catch his breath through photosynthesis, Aurus thenmanded Staff No. 2, his current weapon, toe out as he wanted to even out the ying field a little bit.

    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!

    But before he could truly summon out Staff No. 2, Herellia took the initiative to attack,manding the 5 tendrils to spiral into onerge tendril, as if the attack looked like arge red drill aiming at Aurus.

    ¡°[Supreme Sanguine Art: Pierce].¡±

    ¡°[Barrier of the Spiritas: Maximum Defense]!¡±

    Whoosh!

    Bang!

    This time, although Aurus was not able to infuse darkme into his barrier, the collision between the tendrils and the barrier did not destroy his barrier in one shot, but rather dimming the light of the barrier by a little bit, making him think that choosing this skill was truly worth it.

    While Herellia was retrieving her tendrils, Aurus took this time tomand the system through the Battle module.

    ¡°System, formte a n that will incapacitate Herellia to the extent that she can¡¯t attack back.¡±

    Ding!

    Not long after, a small screen on the left side of his field of vision appeared, giving Aurus the skills he needs to use to do just that.

    ¡°[Spirit Sword of Seven Hells]!¡±

    Whoosh!

    In an instant, Aurus conjured a de from the Anima making up his body, infusing with SP not long after as it radiated a pure white glow.

    ¡°[Darkme Maniption]!¡±

    Swish! Swish! Swish!

    This pure white glow was then apanied by multiple embers of darkme that wrapped around the de, giving the de Aurus created a holy yet demonic type of feel.

    Then again, who would care about a fight between two Inanimates?

    Feeling the powerful aura radiating from the de, Herellia could not help but intensify the aura radiating from her body as the 5 tendrils split up into 25 thinner tendrils. Without hesitation, she shot those 25 tendrils towards where Aurus was in a flower formation.

    ¡°[Supreme Sanguine Art: Bloom].¡±

    ¡°Take this! [Darkme Sword of Pride]!¡±

    Whoosh!

    As the de and the tendrils got closer to one another, their auras started to emanate from the surroundings. At first, the two of them were neck and neck in terms of intensity, but not long after, some of the tendrils making up the flower formation started to shrivel up, letting Aurus know that his conjured de was stronger than the tendrils.

    More and more of the tendrils started to shrivel up, only leaving a single one behind as the de zoomed towards Herellia, shing horizontally on her body, breaking the circuit of her blood red engravings as she was flung towards the walls of the hall with a bang.

    Bang!

    Due to the power stored inside the de, Herellia was not only flung into the wall, she also made a decent dent into it, around 5 centimeters or so.

    Looking at the screen on his left side and seeing that there were no more moves for him to do, Aurus let out a light sigh as he came closer to Herellia.

    Rumble¡­Rumble¡­

    Of course, Herellia thought that it was not over, trying to budge her way out of the wall as she wanted to attack Aurus once more.

    ¡°Must¡­protect¡­alliance¡­¡± Herellia muttered softly as she mustered all the strength she could at this moment, wanting to attack one more time.

    ¡°Herellia¡­¡± As for Aurus, he was just a few meters away from where Herellia was at. He tried to call out to her, but it seemed that she was still adamant on fighting against him, ignoring his call. He then infused some of his SP into voice before shouting once more, ¡°Herellia! Snap out of it!¡±

    Bang!

    As Aurus¡¯ voice reached Herellia¡¯s sense of hearing, the cloth that seemed to block her rationality was finally removed, stopping her futile struggle for good. She looked at the hall for a bit before asking herself, ¡°W-What happened?¡±

    ¡°We fought, that¡¯s what.¡± Not long after, Herellia heard a voice answer her question. At the instant she turned her field of vision to look at the origin of the voice, Herellia found an extremely familiar silhouette. ¡°A-Aurus¡­what¡­¡±

    At that instant, the memories that did not seem to be processed during the fight, now came to her as the aura that covered her body changed from extreme rage to intense somberness.

    ¡°I¡­¡± Herellia was at a loss for words after realizing what she has done. She maintained silence for a bit as she tried to gather her thoughts. After a while, she then muttered out a simple ¡°Sorry.¡±

    ¡°Although I feel wronged for being attacked, no problem at all,¡± Aurus replied. He could not help but sense theplicated aura radiating out of Herellia¡¯s body as he asked, ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡±

    ¡°Haah,¡± Herellia could only sigh. ¡°Although a week has passed since that incident, the safety of the alliance is still in jeopardy.¡±

    ¡°A week?¡± Aurus could not help but think about this. Isn¡¯t this the same time when he left the alliance to hunt for bosses? ¡°Did something happen while I was gone? Did I do something wrong?¡±

    ¡°No, you did nothing wrong at all,¡± Herellia replied with a somber tone. ¡°It¡¯s just that¡­to think that I ced my full trust on him.¡±

    ¡°Before you continue your answer,¡± Aurus interrupted Herellia just before he thought she would continue, pointing towards where she was. ¡°Let me help you out of there and heal you up. Sorry for going so hard on you.¡±

    ¡°Mm, it¡¯s not your fault,¡± Herellia maintained her somber tone in her replies. ¡°Rather, I want to thank you for bringing me back to reality. I might just be overthinking right now, but the possibility still exists.¡±

    Aurus controlled Staff No. 2 to head between the dent and Herellia¡¯s body, before controlling it to move like a lever, popping Herellia out of the dent he made from the attack.

    ¡°[Darkme Maniption].¡±

    ¡°[Formosus Exuberance].¡±

    ¡°Combine!¡±

    ¡°[Formosus Exuberance: Chaotic Healing]!¡±

    Whoosh!

    Aiming the healing skill towards Herellia, a great chunk of her HP and injuries were healed in that short burst of healing power. Not long after, small embers of darkme covered her body, recovering more of her HP and injuries until she had none left.

    ¡°Woah,¡± Herellia could not help but say. ¡°This healing skill is quite strong.¡±

    ¡°I grinded it for a long time before it could reach this level,¡± Aurus radiated an aura equivalent to a wry smile as he continued, ¡°Then again, I can¡¯tpare to your level of grinding, seeing that you have had the system far longer than me.¡±

    ¡°When did you know?¡± Although Herellia wanted to be the first one to tell Aurus about her system, it did not ur to him that Aurus already knew about her system.

    ¡°From the part where you talked about the Goddess of Kinship blessing you,¡± Aurus replied. ¡°Anyways, what happened while I was gone?¡±

    With the topic back to what it originally was, Herellia could not help but sigh for a long time as she looked at Aurus, sensing the improvement he had after going out for a hunt. ¡°For now, only I know about this since I did not bother spreading it to the other Pir level members. As for you, since you¡¯re a fellow system user like me, it won¡¯t hurt me telling you this.¡±

    With a serious aura covering her body, Aurus realized that something big had happened while he was gone. ¡°What happened?¡±

    ¡°Horell left the alliance,¡± Herellia replied.

    ¡°What?¡± Out of all the things he least expected, this was something truly out of his expectations. He could not help but stay silent for a bit before asking Herellia, ¡°You¡¯re joking¡­right?¡±

    ¡°Nope, not at all. I wish I was,¡± Herellia sighed. ¡°As for the reason, it¡¯s actually worse than you might think.¡±

    ¡°How worse could it be?¡± Aurus asked.

    ¡°I told you about the Animate that wants to control the whole Tempest Cliff, right?¡± Herellia tried to refresh Aurus¡¯ mind.

    ¡°Yep, I remember it quite well,¡± Aurus replied with an aura of affirmation.

    ¡°Well, although Horell said that he was going to leave the alliance to not affect it while he was transitioning into Animate, his true purpose was to head back to that Animate, sensing that his mission was now over,¡± Herellia replied with a somber yet serious tone.

    Bang!

    As if fireworks went off in his mind, Aurus could not help but stare at Herellia with disbelief. ¡°Are you serious?¡±

    ¡°Follow me, I¡¯ll lead you to my secluded area. I¡¯ll exin more in-depth there.¡± Herellia turned around and faced the pathway that led to the small ecosystem as she started to hover off the ground.

    ¡°Alright then,¡± Aurus epted her wishes since this incident did ultimately have something to do with the safety of the alliance. As he started to hover off the ground, he then heard a question from Herellia that made him slightly dumbfounded.

    ¡°Hey Aurus, do you want to be a Pir level member?¡±

    ¡°Wait¡­are you serious?¡±

    As they continued to traverse the pathway, a few secondster after Aurus¡¯ question, a soft voice from Herellia answered his question.

    ¡°Yes.¡±

 Chapter 104: Calm Before The Storm

    Chapter 104: Calm Before The Storm

    Celestial ne, Chad¡¯s Pce.

    Kurohana could not help but have a serious expression on her face once she realized the whole scheme of things. The reason why Nix chose this mission, why she was the one who was going to do it, all of it now made sense to her.

    Slightly chuckling, she muttered to herself, ¡°If the Demons wille back to try and capture the Celestial ne again, then I won¡¯t hesitate killing them all again!¡± As she said this, a faint killing intent started to suffuse out of her currently masculine body, which she hastily concealed not long after.

    To many of the Greater Gods, one would not remember the incident that almost killed off all of the Lesser Gods millions of years ago, the Lesser Divine War. The only Greater Gods that do remember it are those who have witnessed the war, fought against the Demons and found ways to push the Demons back. Amongst them, Nix and Kurohana were those who fought against them. The current Lesser Gods did not even know of such a war happening, since most of them became Lesser Gods around five hundred thousand years ago.

    ¡°Hinari and Hodazuka are the two gods that cast the seal on you, right?¡± Kurohana looked at the shocked Chad and asked.

    ¡°From the signs you gave me, it could only be the two of them,¡± Chad muttered in reply as he could not still believe it. ¡°To think that those two kind gods¡­corrupted by a Primordial Sin¡­¡±

    ¡°Haaa¡­¡± Hearing these wordse out of Chad¡¯s mouth, Kurohana could not help but sigh. ¡°Let me remove the seals on you first before we do anything elseter. Let us ease your pain for a bit,¡± Kurohana said as she asked Chad to lie down on the ground, to which Chad had no qualms.

    Looking down at Chad¡¯s body that lied t on the ground, Kurohana started to mutter a few incantations as she raised both hands towards the sky, absorbing the mana in the surroundings as a magic circle the size of half of Chad¡¯s ind appeared tens of meters above Kurohana¡¯s palms.

    The magic circle she was conjuring was an unsealing spell crafted by the Lesser Gods back then tobat against the Demonic Seals casted by the Demons. As for its name and level of magic¡­

    ¡°7th Divine Circle. Infiniaris Monstratus Eradicae.¡±

    ¡°Unshackled Nihility.¡±

    Whoosh!

    After finishing the spell, multiple motes of ck light started to form around the boundaries of the magic circle before coalescing into a spear that seemed to destroy the skies and the earth with one blow.

    Sensing the power that the spear emanated, Chad could not help but break out into a cold sweat as he looked at Kurohana, asking, ¡°Is this¡­safe?¡±

    ¡°Definitely safe,¡± Kurohana looked at Chad and smiled. ¡°This is just an incorporeal spear, aimed to destroy the Demonic Seals inside your body through the help of a small part of the Transcendent Canon of Nihility.¡±

    ¡°The Transcendent Canons¡­¡± Chad could not help but gulp his saliva after hearing the utterance of this phrase. To him, Transcendent Canons were thews that truly governed the universe, even stronger than the Immortal Verdicts!

    ¡°Since you say so, Kurohana, then I have truly no qualms at this point.¡± Chad decided to ept what Kurohana was going to do. If it hurt, then he would bear with it, to remove a longsting pain for a short bout of extreme pain, it¡¯s definitely worth it!

    Whoosh!

    Manipting the spear of nihility towards Chad¡¯sher regions, where the Demonic Seals were, the particles that made up the spear started to separate inside his body, locating the Demonic Seals in an instant and concentrating towards them once they found out where it lied.

    Rrrrrr¡­

    Not long after aiming the spear towards Chad¡¯sher regions, the soft sound of waves rumbling could be hearding from Chad¡¯s body as hisplexion that was previously pale, gradually regained its original luster while his body that was previously tense, gradually rxed as well.

    Through the use of her consciousness, Kurohana could see that the Seals were being broken down at a greater speed thanks to the power of herws. Around a minuteter, the Seals were finally destroyed by the particles of nihility, with the particles dissipating not long after as well.

    ¡°The Seals are now gone,¡± Kurohana said to Chad. After Chad heard this, he stood up and felt that his body was better than before, he felt like he could do anything at this moment.

    Feeling up his body from head to toe, Chad could not help but mutter out of disbelief, ¡°What the¡­my problem is gone¡­it¡¯s gone!¡±

    Chad could not help but look at Kurohana with awe as he said, ¡°You¡¯re truly a life saver! Thank you for solving my problem, Kurohana!¡±

    ¡°Not a problem at all,¡± Kurohana waved her hands as she lightly smiled. ¡°Anyways, could you tell me more about Hinari and Hodazuka? All I know is that Hinari is the Lesser Goddess of the Moon, and Hodazuka is the Lesser God of the Sun. I might find out more about the reasons why the Demons chose them as their first gods to possess.¡±

    Although Chad was not a Lesser God that fought against the Demons, he still knew how cruel the Demons were from reading multiple excerpts of the Demons from the Divine Library. Chad knew that telling Kurohana about the two of them would definitely push the Demons back to whence they came, allowing the Celestial ne to live in peace.

    ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll tell you all I know,¡± Chad replied with a solemn expression on his face as he nodded. ¡°In fact, Hinari and Hodazuka came from the same, Earth, which is extremely small. To think that a small like this would birth two Lesser Gods is nothing short of a miracle. Let us start with Hinari¡­¡±

    ¡­

    Hourster, Chad was finally finished exining the backstories of both Hinari and Hodazuka, which somewhat expanded Kurohana¡¯s horizons a bit.

    ¡°And that¡¯s all I know about them,¡± Chad said as the end of his exnation.

    Kurohana nodded and thanked Chad. ¡°Thank you for taking your time to exin both Hinari and Hodazuka¡¯s lives. Your contribution will definitely not go to waste.¡±

    ¡°No, no, no. I must thank you instead for curing me of my problem.¡± Chad waved his hands as he smiled while replying. ¡°As for the reward, I won¡¯t dare be stingy with it since it had something to do with the Demons. I¡¯ll be increasing the reward from 20 God Sparks to 50 God Sparks.¡±

    Hearing that the reward was increased by almost 3 times made Kurohana happy, but then she remembered the fact that this mission was a punishment mission, reducing her excited state back to a neutral one.

    ¡°If there¡¯s nothing else, I shall be going then,¡± Kurohana said after Chad was finished talking. She also started to hover off the ground at this point.

    ¡°Go ahead, you have to report this anyway,¡± Chad smiled as he waved goodbye towards Kurohana who was already leaving his ind.

    Kurohana nodded back to Chad¡¯s reply as she elerated towards her maximum speed, heading back to the Hall of Greater Divinity.

    Whoosh!

    In an instant, no trace of Kurohana was left behind on Chad¡¯s Pce.

    ¡­

    Taking another hour to head back to the Hall of Greater Divinity, Kurohana was greeted by Nix at the entrance of the hall, prompting her to bow towards Nix as she reverted back to her previous expression.

    ¡°Greetings Hallmaster,¡± Kurohana greeted.

    ¡°Wee back Kurohana,¡± Nix smiled. She then gestured towards Kurohana to follow her as she turned around. ¡°Follow me.¡±

    Sensing that there was no malicious intent in Nix¡¯s words, Kurohana replied with a sinct ¡°Yes¡± before following Nix from behind. Due to them both being Greater Gods, they both moved quite quickly through the hall, only taking a few minutes to arrive at a secluded ce.

    Once they arrived at this secluded ce, Kurohana could not help but blurt out, ¡°Hallmaster, isn¡¯t this your room?¡±

    ¡°What about it?¡± Nix smiled as she looked at Kurohana. ¡°Anyways, feel free to call me Nix. We¡¯re both victims of the Lesser Divine War anyway.¡±

    ¡°The Lesser Divine War¡­¡± Hearing this phrasee out of Nix¡¯s mouth, Kurohana¡¯s vignce towards Nix slightly rxed as she stammered, ¡°N-N-Nix¡­¡±

    ¡°Yes?¡± Feeling that Kurohana having trouble saying her name was cute, Nix could not help but chuckle.

    ¡°Are the Demons trulying back to take over the Celestial ne?¡±

    ¡°What do you think?¡± Nix¡¯s smile slightly subsided, gradually being reced with a serious expression. Nheless, her tone was still a bit cheerful.

    ¡°From the mission I¡¯ve taken, I¡¯ve realized that not only one Depraved Deity has been created¡­but two!¡±

    ¡°What? Impossible.¡± Hearing that two Depraved Deities were created instead of one like her expectations, Nix could not help but be shocked.

    ¡°I checked Chad¡¯s body and noticed that two Demonic Seals were ced. How could a single Depraved Deity cast two Demonic Seals? If they were True Demon Gods, then it would be more usible,¡± Kurohana refuted Nix¡¯s statement.

    ¡°It seems that this problem is worse than I thought,¡± Nix could not help but frown after feeling that Kurohana¡¯s words made sense. She thought of a something for a bit, but then dismissed it afterwards as she sighed.

    ¡°You know what, if you want to help with this problem, I have no problem with it. If you don¡¯t want to help, I have no problem with that as well,¡± Nix looked at Kurohana for a bit before opening her mouth. ¡°Anyways, ording to Phatia, once you finish this mission, your punishment is now over.¡±

    ¡°As for your reward¡­¡± Nix waved her fingers for a bit as she looked at the new reward with slight surprise. ¡°Since the mission Phatia gave you needed to out 20 God Sparks, we shall only retrieve 20 God Sparks from the mission, the extra God Sparks shall be yours.¡±

    With a snap of her fingers, 30 motes of purple light appeared in front of Kurohana¡¯s field of vision, which then surged towards her brain, increasing the amount of God Sparks she held by 30¡­through some weird means.

    ¡°With your punishment now over, you can now go back to your space,¡± Nix sat down on the chair behind her desk as she pulled out a piece of paper, writing words on it as she thought of how she was going to report this. ¡°Please do consider helping me out on this one, only 10 of us have experience killing Demons¡­other than the Wielders and Overseers anyway.¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t worry,¡± Kurohana replied to appease Nix¡¯s emotions. ¡°Once I get back, I¡¯ll send a part of my body to help you out. I just can¡¯t go out with my full power since I¡¯m still nurturing a future Evolving weapon.¡±

    ¡°An Evolving weapon?¡± Nix could not help but look at Kurohana with wonder. ¡°As expected of the most famous craftswoman throughout the Celestial ne. Alright, I won¡¯t send you off. Go.¡±

    As Nix waved her hands, Kurohana bowed respectfully towards Nix before leaving the Hall of Greater Divinity, heading back to her pce.

    ¡°I wonder what happened to Aurus while I was gone.¡±

 Chapter 105: Moving Up The Ranks

    Chapter 105: Moving Up The Ranks

    Whoosh!

    A few hourster, Kurohana was finally within proximity of her pce, making her let out a sigh of relief as she could not help but mutter, ¡°I wonder how long I¡¯ve been gone.¡±

    Not daring to waste time, Kurohana darted towards the inside of her giant white cube, instantly seeing the orb which showed the happenings around Aurus near the center of the insides. She walked towards it and conjured a chair to sit on not far away from the orb, sitting on it at the instant it was done.

    She then waved her hands for a bit as she tried to call for the things that happened to Aurus while she was gone, easily finding out that he had suffered through a bout of bad luck, though that was somewhat mitigated with the summoning of an SS-grade ally.

    ¡°I should have created a clone while I was gone,¡± Kurohana could not help but sigh as she looked at the current Aurus who was travelling through the pathway with Herellia. ¡°If it weren¡¯t for me being gone, then Aurus would not have any bad luck at all. Thanks to me being gone, my ns of Aurus being used as a weapon material in that world have been dyed slightly.¡±

    Staring a short bit at the two through the orb, Kurohana got a spark of inspiration, to which she could not help but lightly chuckle at the thought of it. ¡°Familia, I hope you don¡¯t mind me using your material.¡±

    ¡°But before I do just that, I should really ask for permission.¡±

    ¡­

    Tempest Cliff, Tempest Branch Alliance Base.

    At the current speed of the two, it did not take them long to head towards the Alliance Lobby of the base situated within the small ecosystem of the base.

    Thud. Thud.

    Looking at the insides of the alliance lobby that did not go under any significant change at all, Aurus could not help but look at Herellia and ask, ¡°So¡­why¡¯d you bring me here?¡±

    ¡°Didn¡¯t I tell you?¡± Herellia, who was busy releasing her SP to connect it to therge crystal that was situated on the ceiling of the lobby, could not help but stop releasing her SP as she looked at him with a bit of confusion. ¡°You¡¯re going to rece Horell as one of the Pir level members of the alliance. And since you¡¯re grown to an S-grade Inanimate, I¡¯m increasing the effects of the alliance buff as well.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re actually serious?¡± Aurus thought that Herellia was joking as she said this while they were traversing the pathway. ¡°Wouldn¡¯t the other members be mad when they find out what you¡¯re doing?¡±

    ¡°Other than the Executive level members, who might think that it¡¯s too early to give someone like you, a neer of the alliance, a level of authority like this, the Pir level members have no objections to this since I¡¯ve asked them about this a few days ago,¡± Continuing to umte the SP around her body, Herellia replied to Aurus¡¯ question.

    ¡°But what if I betray you¡­just like Horell?¡± Although Aurus was thankful to Herellia for putting her trust on him, he did feel that it was way too soon for him to be a Pir level member.

    ¡°Yeah, that¡¯s impossible. I know your motives,¡± Herellia did not get agitated at Aurus¡¯ words, facing them without worry as she replied with a slightly cheerful tone. ¡°Since we both know we have systems, I won¡¯t hide anything further from you. I have a skill named [Eye of Undeceiving Kin] that allows me to see through the ulterior motives of beings¡­though its limited to early Animates at most since I haven¡¯t leveled it up that much.¡±

    ¡°And through that skill, I found out that¡­¡± Herellia looked at Aurus before continuing. ¡°From the time you entered the alliance up till now, you won¡¯t betray the alliance since you aim to be the strongest. Why would you rely on nefarious means to be the strongest?¡±

    Hearing the words that came out of Herellia¡¯s nonexistent mouth, Aurus could not help but chuckle. ¡°Well, you¡¯re not wrong.¡± Afterwards, he then ced himself at the center of the magic circle under the crystal that hung on the ceiling of the lobby, remembering the first time he went through this process. ¡°Take your time, I don¡¯t mind waiting for a bit.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m actually done preparing,¡± Herellia said as all of the umted SP that circled around her body started to coalesce into a ball before heading towards the crystal.

    Fwoosh!

    Not long after absorbing the SP, the crystal shot out a beam of light as the runes surrounding the magic circle where Aurus stood started to light up one by one, covering Aurus¡¯ body with a white shroud of light that made him look like some sort of stick deity.

    As for Herellia, she could not look at Aurus¡¯ current appearance at all as she was focused on the crystal, muttering before her voice got louder and louder until it could deafen a person¡¯s ears.

    ¡°As the leader of the Tempest Branch Alliance, I beseech the Gods to heed my call.¡±

    ¡°With the power vested in me and the power given to me by the Deity Crystal, I shall now announce that a previous Executive of the Alliance has now spread its wings, bing a greater power that could affect the bnce of the alliance, yet its main purpose is to help it wholeheartedly. Indeed, I now announce the creation of a Pir of the Alliance, serving as its guardian and savior in times of need.¡±

    ¡°With these words said, please ept my plea.¡±

    ¡°Ariansus Triholos Spiritas Branchus, Pres Ultimatum!¡±

    Whoosh!

    At the instant Herellia was finished with her incantation, the shroud of light covering Aurus¡¯ body intensified in brightness as a newfound power was instilled inside Aurus, heightening his senses for a bit as he had a feeling that could peer through walls and see the whole alliance within a single nce.

    This sensationsted for a bit before dissipating, with the light radiating from the crystal and the magic circle dissipating as well, leaving only a powered up Aurus and a nonchnt looking Herellia within the insides of the lobby.

    Aurus closed his sense of vision for a bit before opening it once more, trying to get ustomed to his newfound powers. It was a rare urrence for him to obtain a great spike in his stats, hence the need to be ustomed.

    It took him a few seconds to get ustomed before he hovered towards Herellia and got near her as he said, ¡°I feel¡­stronger.¡±

    ¡°Well, of course you do,¡± Herellia could not help but sense the majestic aura surrounding Aurus and chuckle for a bit. ¡°With your new standing, I¡¯m quite sure that you can defeat the other Pir level members, and also fight me to a standstill if pushes to shove.¡±

    ¡°Well, we can¡¯t say that for sure, since I still have to use a lot of skills to even out the ying field,¡± Aurus thought that it wasughable for Herellia to tell him that he could evenly fight against her. ¡°Unlike you, you only need to use the better version of your originally strong [Sanguine Art] to toy around with me.¡±

    ¡°Who says I¡¯m not relying on skills as well?¡± Herellia could not help but have the urge to tell Aurus her skills. ¡°Since you¡¯re still S-grade, I presume that you¡¯re quitecking in passive skills, yes? Well I don¡¯t, I got tons of ¡¯em.¡±

    Sensing the somewhat arrogant aura popping up from Herellia, Aurus had the urge to put Herellia down a peg. ¡°So what? I have a lot of active buffs, whenbined with my passive skills, would allow me to attack at the same level as you!¡±

    ¡°Oh?¡± Herellia could not help but radiate a mischievous aura as Aurus felt a nonexistent smile creeping up her body. ¡°Do you want to fight it out, then?¡±

    Whoosh!

    In an instant, a blood red tendril was formed over Herellia¡¯s body, making Aurus shudder as he said, ¡°No, no, no. There must be another way to measure this¡­right?¡±

    Without giving any time for Aurus to breathe, Herellia chuckled as she waved down her tendril.

    ¡°Nope.¡±

    Bang!

    ¡°Ahhh!¡±

    ¡­

    A few minutester, the one-sided fight between Herellia and Aurus finally came to end, with Aurus being beaten to a near pulp. Thankfully, Aurus had his own healing skill that allowed him to have no injuries at the end of the fight. He also took this time to talk about their respective systems since they both knew the existence of both anyway.

    Fortunately, Herellia was not privy to this since this was the first time she had someone to share her system with, with others not even knowing the existence of the system she and Aurus had.

    After a hearty talk thatsted around half an hour, Aurus and Herellia were finished talking about their systems, leaving them dumbfounded by the other¡¯s system.

    ¡°Man, I can¡¯t help but feel jealous when I think of your system,¡± Herellia could not help but look at Aurus as they stood by the entrance of the alliance lobby. ¡°Not only do you have the most basic form of the system, you also have other systems to help boost your power more, Ally system, Weapon system, Artificial Intelligence system, if I had that, then I would have been an Animate by now!¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s not like your system ain¡¯t overpowered as well!¡± Aurus could not help but refute Herellia¡¯s words. ¡°Sure, we both have the most basic form of the system, but you can nurture a weapon through your body and create Blood Contracts that¡¯s basically akin to my Ally system. Not only that, you can learn skills extremely quickly!¡±

    After their long talk, the one that Aurus found out from Herellia was that she could easily max out the skills she learned within minutes, the longer only taking hours at most. As for Aurus, although he had still not peered into the full capabilities of the Learning Module, it would take him days or even weeks of grinding to raise his skills to max level.

    ¡°Don¡¯t you have the Learning module to solve that problem?¡± Herellia could not help but recall this portion of Aurus¡¯ system.

    ¡°Although it¡¯s quite useful, it could only nurture one skill at most. That would just leave me one less skill to grind,¡± Aurus could not help but sigh at this thought. He could not help but think at this time as to why he got addicted to a game such as Infinite Stick Evolution.

    ¡°You do know¡­there¡¯s a way to reduce the grind¡­right?¡± Deciding that it was for the better for the alliance, Herellia finally talked about what was on her mind after a moment of silence.

    ¡°Eh?¡± Aurus could not help but exim as he looked at Herellia. ¡°There is? Do I have to fiddle with the system to speed it up?¡±

    ¡°No, not at all,¡± Herellia radiated an aura that basically said no to Aurus¡¯ question. ¡°It¡¯s an item that you use to max out your skill¡¯s level, and enhance your skill learning speed process by a bit. Though it¡¯s a bit rare to obtain.¡±

    ¡°Can you tell me about this item?¡± Since Herellia was able to pique his interest, even if it could be a bluff, he would try to find out about this to the bitter end.

    ¡°Sure, I can even tell you where to get one.¡± Herellia did not mind Aurus asking about this as her aura became cheerful. ¡°Although theye in many forms and grades, they¡¯re only known through one name.¡±

    ¡°Comprehension Leaves.¡±

 Chapter 106: Transcending, Fleeting

    Chapter 106: Transcending, Fleeting

    ¡°Comprehension Leaves?¡± After hearing Herellia mention it, Aurus could not help butmit it to his memory, not even daring to put it at the back of his head and forget it. ¡°What do these Comprehension Leaves do?¡±

    ¡°As I¡¯ve said before, these leaves help you max out a skill¡¯s level as if it was maxed out in the first ce. Not only that, it also enhances your speed inprehending skills, basically giving you the feeling of learning skills at half the effort, but twice the result,¡± Herellia exined to Aurus without holding anything back. ¡°Do you want me to go through the grades of Comprehension Leaves as well? If you used a high-ranked one without knowing it was a high-ranked one, you would surely regret it once you knew what grade it was.¡±

    ¡°Sure, I don¡¯t mind,¡± Aurus nodded with his nonexistent head as he radiated an affirmative aura. ¡°How many grades are there, and how heaven-defying is each gradepared to the previous one?¡±

    ¡°As far as I¡¯ve seen, there are 3 grades of Comprehension Leaves, but from what I¡¯ve read up on other ces, there are 5 grades of Comprehension Leaves. I¡¯ll only tell you about the first 3 since I¡¯ve used the highest grade out of the 3 already,¡± Herellia replied.

    ¡°The first grade of Comprehension Leaf is called the Soaring Comprehension Leaf. Once you use it, it will give you the temporary feeling of flying along the clouds, as if you could see the whole world with just a single nce. Once you use this leaf, other than the fact that it maxes out a single skill, it increases yourprehension speed by twofold, basically making yourprehension speed thrice as fast than before.¡±

    ¡°The second grade of Comprehension Leaf is called the Unshrouding Comprehension Leaf. From the name itself, once you use it, you get the temporary feeling as if you could peer through everything, to its smallest particle, as if everything wasid upon your bare eyes to see, hence the word Unshrouding. Compared to the Soaring Leaf, it maxes out five skills, and increases yourprehension by sevenfold, allowing you to max out a skill eight times as fast than before.¡±

    While listening to the details of the second Comprehension Leaf, Aurus could not help but ask, ¡°Do theprehension speed buffs stack on top of each other?¡±

    ¡°Yes¡­and no,¡± Herellia had a conflicting aura about her body. ¡°I¡¯m only telling you about the effects of the first consumption of a Comprehension Leaf. Once you consume two or more leaves, the effect they give out in terms of enhancing yourprehension speed would probably not even reach one-tenth of the first leaf.¡±

    ¡°I see,¡± Aurus radiated an affirmative aura to show that he understood Herellia¡¯s words. ¡°What about thest one?¡±

    ¡°Thest one, the one that I was lucky to have consumed, is called the Transcending Comprehension Leaf. If Soaring allowed you to see the world with one nce, and Unshrouding allowed to peer through the minute substances that make up the world, then the Transcending Leaf allows you to not only peer through the minute substances, it would even show you the connections between the substances, may it be tangible or intangible, corporeal or incorporeal. Consuming one of these things would allow you to max out 10 skills at once, as well as increase yourprehension by 14 times, allowing you to max out skills 15 times as fast!¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s¡­¡± Aurus was incredibly dumbfounded from the effects of thest Comprehension Leaf, left at a loss for words. It took a while for him to snap back to reality, remembering the words Herellia said earlier. ¡°You told me that there were 5 grades of Comprehension Leaves, right? Although you told me that you would only tell me about the first 3, with the 3rd grade already being that powerful, I can¡¯t help but ask about thest two grades!¡±

    ¡°I wish I could tell you about thesest two grades,¡± Herellia could not sigh after seeing the eagerness radiating from Aurus. ¡°But these two leaves are so rare that even I do not know about their effects. All I can say is¡­they¡¯re bound to be many times better than the Transcending Leaf.¡±

    Seeing that Herellia did not really know about the effects of the fourth and fifth Comprehension Leaves, Aurus decided to leave it at that,mitting the first three grades to memory before asking, ¡°If I remember correctly, you also told me about the ce where we could obtain Comprehension Leaves, right?¡±

    ¡°Yep, and it¡¯s an incredibly dangerous ce for a normal S-grade,¡± Herellia could not help but look at Aurus with a serious aura, only for it to be reced with a cheerful aura as she chuckled. ¡°Then again, you¡¯re no normal S-grade. Do you really want to obtain a Comprehension Leaf?¡±

    ¡°As long as it allows me to reach the level of Animate faster, then of course,¡± Aurus replied without hesitation. Although this reply might seem normal from the surface, Aurus replied this with the idea of hastily evolving to be an Animate before his current body would befall the danger, like what Kevin told him. He would only use [Spirit Clone] if he was left with no other choice, though he knew that with the help of his [Spirit Aura] skill, he could already cast the skill without a problem.

    He did not know why, but he did not want to cast this skill at this moment. He had the feeling that he was better off living as a stick rather than a human just like his previous life.

    Taking the chance to contact the other Pir level members while Aurus was engrossed in his thought, Herellia then said to Aurus, snapping him back to reality, ¡°Alright, I¡¯ve contacted the other Pir level members about us leaving the alliance in their hands for a bit, so we now have time to head towards that ce.¡±

    ¡°Eh?¡± At first, Aurus heard Herellia¡¯s words as if they were an incoherent mix of words. It took him a while to fully understand Herellia¡¯s statement before saying, ¡°Well that¡¯s fast.¡±

    ¡°As a leader of a big alliance, you need to take the initiative, leaving them no choice but to agree,¡± Herellia could not help but chuckle. After a while, Herellia started to hover off the ground, to which Aurus started to hover off the ground as well.

    Whoosh!

    A couple of minutester, the two of them were already near the pathway that connected the small ecosystem to therge hall of the alliance, leaving no trace of their presence on the Alliance Lobby¡­since they were Inanimates that did not have presence in the first ce.

    ¡­

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    With the wind blowing against their bodies, Aurus and Herellia were now outside the Tempest Cliff, taking only around 5 minutes to leave the boundaries, heading towards a certain direction where Aurus had no choice but to follow Herellia from behind.

    ¡°Where are we going [1]?¡± Aurus could not help but ask as he felt a bit of anxiety creeping up his mind. Herellia dispelled this anxiety in an instant as this feeling was instead reced by intense shock as she said, ¡°To an inheritance. It¡¯s not just any inheritance, but it¡¯s an inheritance found within the civilizations of the Animates.¡±

    ¡°A-Animates?!¡± Aurus was left at a loss for words. So this was why Herellia said that it was dangerous for normal S-grades to obtain this thing! ¡°You mean¡­humans?¡±

    ¡°Although not all Animates are humans, the civilization we¡¯re entering does indeed have a lot of humans,¡± Herellia radiated an aura of affirmation towards Aurus as she decided to exin the ce they were entering. ¡°This civilization is small to the humans, since ording to their level of civilizations, it is only a town, the second smallest unit of civilization, only being bigger than a vige, the smallest unit of civilization to them.¡±

    ¡°This inheritance is located at the outskirts of the town, near the walls that protect the town from the other Animates, the beasts,¡± Herellia continued.

    Although Aurus could not help butugh at Herellia¡¯s words since he knew what viges and towns were like, and he told Herellia about him being a human before his current form, it did make sense to other Inanimates. Perhaps Herellia was just being careful at all instances, not wanting to leak out any information about Aurus being a human in his past life.

    ¡°Is the inheritance hard toplete?¡± Since he now had an idea as to where they were going, Aurus decided to ask about the difficulty of the inheritance.

    ¡°Nope, not at all. But if you excel at each part of the inheritance, there¡¯s a higher chance of obtaining a Unshrouding or a Transcending Leaf from the inheritance, with the Soaring Leaf being a given even if you do it halfheartedly,¡± Herellia radiated an aura of disagreement, giving Aurus the sign that it was not that hard at all.

    ¡°The only hard part of it is the risk you¡¯re going to take to reach the inheritance. Many incidents of Inanimates being taken by Animates as materials have urred multiple times already. Even some of our alliance members have been discovered by the Animates, their fates unknown,¡± Herellia could not help but sigh after saying this. It could be said that it was unavoidable for them to escape this fate if it was their destinies to be captured by the Animates.

    ¡°I see,¡± Aurus could not help but feel somewhat disheartened as well after sensing the mncholic aura around Herellia as she remembered the members that were captured by the Animates. Deciding to change the topic into something that was relevant, Aurus then asked Herellia, ¡°Herellia, if you don¡¯t mind, could you tell me the full reason why Horell left the alliance? Although you only gave me a brief description of the reason back at the base, I want the full story of his leaving. Don¡¯t skimp out on the details, okay?¡±

    Hearing Aurus¡¯ question for a bit, Herellia could not help but shudder slightly before calming her emotions down, taking a few deep breaths through her body as the aura around her body became serious. ¡°Alright then, since you¡¯re going to help me protect the alliance, it won¡¯t hurt for me to tell you Horell¡¯s life even before him joining the alliance.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m sure you know that Horell is the most cooperative and supportive Pir level member in our alliance, right?¡±

    ¡°But what if I told you¡­¡±

    ¡°I already had doubts of his superficiality from the start?¡±

    ¡ª¡ª¨C

    [1] CLAP CLAP CLAP (For those who haven¡¯t watched Dora the Explorer, the show that has been a big part of my childhood, you won¡¯t get this reference).

 Chapter 107: A Life of Falsehood

    Chapter 107: A Life of Falsehood

    ¡°I¡¯m sure you know that Horell is the most cooperative and supportive Pir level member in our alliance, right?¡± Herellia looked at Aurus, who was floating beside her, and asked this question.

    ¡°Of course. He goes out of his way to help me tell you things that I don¡¯t have time telling you.¡± Aurus replied with an affirmative aura, not having any second opinion regarding disagreement on this question whatsoever.

    ¡°Now think about it this way,¡± Herellia continued to talk, but her tone became slightly serious. ¡°What if I told you¡­¡±

    ¡°I already had doubts of his superficiality from the start?¡±

    ¡°Eh?¡± Aurus was shocked for a bit, only for him to chuckle lightly as he said, ¡°You¡¯re kidding¡­right?¡±

    ¡°If you listen to my story of how I discovered Horell, then you might think otherwise.¡± This time, Herellia¡¯s tone was now extremely serious, giving Aurus no choice but to acquiesce to her wishes, which was to listen to her story.

    Seeing that Aurus was somewhat eager to listen to her story, Herellia did not dare to dy the story further, starting off with, ¡°This story around one and a half years ago, a time when I was still halfway from maxing out my level as an X-grade Inanimate. The alliance was still in its early stages at that time, yet most of the Pir level members had already been in the alliance by then. We were a tight-knit alliance of X-grade beings, united when standing, divided when falling.¡±

    ¡°One day, while I was talking with the other members at that time about the future of the alliance, we simultaneously heard a loud explosion not that far away from the base. Of course, you could guess what happens next, with me telling the other members toe check out what caused that loud explosion.¡±

    ¡°We only left around 3 alliance members to guard the alliance since only 10 of us were in the alliance at that time, the remaining 6ing with me to check out the origin of the explosion. A few minutester, with our very own senses of vision, what we saw was an unbelievablyrge crater, evenrger whenpared to the size of our base¡¯s entrance.¡± At this time, Herellia could not help but sigh. Taking a few breaths through her body, she continued with her storytelling.

    ¡°We looked around the site of the explosion, wondering as to what might have caused such a crater to be formed. It was around this time did we discover Horell. To be honest, we only found Horell after searching every nook and cranny around the crater, only for us to notice that Horell was right at the extreme center of the crater.¡±

    ¡°With the help of one of myrade-in-arms, Horell was healed back to full health. He was only a measly A-grade back then, just like you when you entered the alliance, but severelycking in terms of power.¡±

    ¡°Nheless, we did not care about Horell¡¯s grade at that moment, only wanting to know the causes to the explosion where he was found in. As for Horell¡¯s answer, he only said that his memory before the explosion was a blur, as if he did not want to recall the memory at all.¡±

    ¡°At that time, a howl resounded throughout the whole Tempest Cliff, its origin you know very well as the Animate that the three alliances are fighting against. As we looked at Horell, it seemed that he shivered at the sound of such a howl, leading us to the conclusion that the crater might have been done by the Animate as Horell fought against it, with no chance of fighting back.¡±

    ¡°Since we pitied Horell at that time, we decided to take him back to the alliance and make him a member of the alliance since we were only around 10 at that time. Now, you¡¯re thinking that where¡¯s the evidence that made me doubt Horell?¡± Herellia took a deep breath before continuing, her aura slightly seething with rage.

    ¡°The doubt started ever since he joined the alliance. Most of the time, he would help out the other 9 alliance members with the tasks they do not have time to do, leaving them quite supportive of Horell. As for me, due to the sheer cooperativeness he showed whenever he would help others, I could not help but have a few doubts. So, with my powers as the creator of the alliance, I decided to scan through the whole alliance, not daring to look away from what Horell was doing for quite some time.¡±

    ¡°Now¡­¡± Herellia hesitated for a bit before continuing. ¡°I don¡¯t know if it was just him being careless, or it being intentional, but one night¡­¡±

    ¡°I caught Horell talking to the same Animate that howled when we found Horell in the crater.¡± Although Herellia was still unsure if it was just Horell being careless or it being intentional, it was still a good basis of her doubts. ¡°They talked about ns of dissolving the alliance from the inside, and ns about taking over the alliance by force.¡±

    ¡°By then, I could not help but contact the other Pir level members about this, and showed them what I saw, instantly deciding to be close with Horell from the outside, but hold multiple seeds of doubt from the outside.¡±

    ¡°And now¡­ that doubt has finally been cleared a week ago.¡± At this time, Herellia was now teeming with rage at the thought. It took Herellia a while topose herself as they continued to traverse where the inheritance lied before continuing to tell her story. ¡°At that time, Horell decided to tell me about him leaving the alliance. Of course, at first, due to me being caught off guard, I was dumbfounded. But then I remembered that he had connections with that Animate, prompting to use the skill I used on you back then to see through ulterior motives. It seemed that the truth was now solidified as my skill would never lie.¡±

    After that, Herellia could not help but sigh. With Aurus radiating an aura filled with slight mncholy. He had a feeling that it had something to do with his bad luck, but at the same time, he could not point it to his bad luck since he was not in the alliance at that time.

    In the end, Aurus could only say, ¡°Let us move on from this, Herellia. The past is in the past. Let¡¯s just find a way to fight against the inevitable battle that I presume will happen in the near future.¡±

    ¡°Alright.¡± After letting out a long sigh, Herellia agreed with Aurus¡¯ words. ¡°Let us make haste, there¡¯s a certain time for us to enter the town with higher chances of entering the inheritance unscathed.¡±

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    And with that, their movement speed was boosted by a considerable amount, allowing them to reach the unnamed town within a few hours.

    ¡­

    With the sun at its peak, Aurus and Herellianded on the ground around a half kilometers away from the wall of the town the inheritance was situated. Not wanting to attract the Animates¡¯ attention, they gradually rolled their way towards the gates, making sure that their movement seemed natural to the Animates. This ordeal was somewhat hard for them since it took them around 30 minutes to traverse such a distance.

    Finally, the two were now at the gates of the town, only needing to head a few hundred meters along the perimeters of the wall before reaching the inheritance ording to what Herellia told Aurus after talking about Horell¡¯s life.

    Whoosh!

    Before the both of them started rolling, Herellia abruptly transformed her body into a small pebble that seemed inconspicuous, slightly shocking Aurus for a bit. ¡°You have a morphing skill?¡±

    ¡°Yeah,¡± Herellia replied. ¡°Don¡¯t you have a morphing skill as well?¡±

    As a reply, Aurus also morphed his body,pacting his size into that of a gray pebble that was around the same size as Herellia in her pebble form. Slightly chuckling, he replied, ¡°Does this answer your question?¡±

    Looking at Aurus for a bit, Herellia then said, ¡°Let¡¯s hope that not many people are around that ce. Let¡¯s go.¡±

    Swoosh!

    Not long after that, the two pebbles then started to roll towards a certain direction, with Herellia leading the front. Due to their small size, the speed at which they rolled was considerably faster whenpared to their speed when rolling as a branch, since they are affect by lesser air resistance.

    And so, around 15 minutester, the two pebbles were then greeted by the entrance to an abandoned mineshaft¡­ well what seemed to be an entrance to an abandoned mineshaft. Right now, only a small space was left as an entrance to the mineshaft, most of which have been covered by wooden nks that have already been covered with moss, or perhaps the stone that fell from the mineshaft¡¯s ceiling.

    Thankfully, the two of them were small enough to fit through the small entrance, reverting back to their original forms once they were sure that they were finally inside the mineshaft.

    They then started to hover through the mineshaft¡¯s pathways, before arriving at a dead end a few minutester.

    This dead end was unlike the other dead ends they saw along the way as the wall that served as the dead end was extremely smooth whenpared to the rough walls of the other dead ends. Not only that, if only looked very closely, one would see a gray magic circle carved on this smooth wall.

    ¡°We¡¯re finally here,¡± Herellia could not help but sigh as she said,nding on the ground as she looked at the gray magic circle. Aurusnded as well, looking at the direction where Herellia was looking.

    ¡°So¡­how do we enter the inheritance?¡± Aurus could not help but ask. Although he knew a lot of ces that held inheritances, he only remembered the methods of entering a scant few inheritances.

    ¡°You just have to reply to the words that we will hear not long after,¡± Herellia replied before asking Aurus to remain silent, to which Aurus became silent not long after, waiting for Herellia¡¯s words toe true.

    And only a few minutester did the two faintly hear a single word resound throughout the dead end they were in.

    ¡°Creeper?¡± This was the word they heard.

    At that instant, as if it was an impulse brought by his memories, Aurus replied with, ¡°Aw man.¡±

    Whoosh!

    Not long after his reply, the gray magic circle started to glow a very faint light as the two of them were transported to another space, not leaving a single trace of them being in the mineshaft in the first ce.

 Chapter 108: A Devious Scheme

    Chapter 108: A Devious Scheme

    Celestial ne, within Kurohana¡¯s ne.

    ¡°Phew¡­I finally settled everything that regarded the maniption of otherws, hence there¡¯s no problem for me to do this now.¡± Kurohana could not help but let out a sigh in relief as she rxed her body on the chair she conjured in order to look at the orb at all times, her whole body slightly covered in slightly cold sweat.

    Not long after, she sat on the chair with her back straightened as she looked at the orb with intense fervor, before waving her hands around the orb, manipting the worldly energy surrounding the orb as multiple strands of silver light formed around the orb before charging towards it.

    Whoosh!

    With the sound of an intense wind blowing, something changed within the orb. It did not change externally or internally, but rather, the image that was being shown, in this case it was Aurus and Herellia in the alliance lobby, instead of it passing through multiple scenes extremely quickly, the speed at which it progressed slowed down by thousands of times, basically moving at a speed that was akin to what many Animates know as slow motion.

    But that was not all, this perception of time was only slowed down for the orb, it was not slowed down for Kurohana, who was manipting said time, or for Aurus and Herellia, who were the targets for said slowed perception.

    Seeing that her spell was sessful, Kurohana then dispersed the remaining silver strands of light before conjuring multiple strands of golden light. To anyone that was familiar with this light, it was light that was concerned with the Immortal Verdict of Fate.

    Learning her lessons from back then, Kurohana asked permission from Phatia, her big sister, as well as the wielder of the Immortal Verdict of Fate, Neri, her sister who governed over the Law of Natural Flow, Animus, who governed over the Law of the Soul, andstly, Pherena, who governed over the Law of Natural Phenomena.

    This process of asking for permission from other gods to let her manipte thews they govern over only took her around 15 minutes or so. Thankfully, all of them allowed her to wield theirws to some extent, with the only limit for thesews being the needed amount to do what she wanted to do.

    Of course, with Familia being one of the goddesses she hated due to her inserting her own material in Kurohana¡¯s world, Kurohana did not ask permission from Familia to use Herellia, instead deciding of using Herellia as she wished since she was in her world.

    As the golden strands of light entered the orb, it was then followed by multiple grayish violet strands of light which pertained to the Law of the Soul governed by Animus. Afterwards, multiple blue strands of light entered the orb, which pertained to the Law of Natural Flow, andstly, strands of red and green light entered the orb, which pertained to the Law of Natural Phenomena, thestw Kurohana asked permission for.

    A few secondster, a myriad of colors shed around the orb before subsiding as the perception of time for the orb was returned back to normal, a light smile on Kurohana¡¯s face as she saw the light subsiding.

    ¡°Well then, if my calctions are correct, Herellia will bring Aurus to an inheritance inside a human town, and then¡­¡± After saying this, Kurohana could not help but chuckle for a bit before continuing.

    ¡°You shall be noticed by humans sooner orter, Aurus. Do your best.¡±

    ¡­

    XXXX Continent, within the depths of an unknown town.

    Whoosh!

    It took a few seconds for Aurus to be transported from the dead end of a mineshaft towards a seemingly vast space that was covered with nothing but stone. Everywhere Aurus looked, all he could was just stone. You thought the walls, the floor, or the ceiling was different, nope. Stone.

    Sensing that theckluster room he was in had some hints of some mysterious yet strong energy, Aurus returned back to his original form from when he was still an A-grade Spiritas, he was still not used to the humanoid form of the Spiritas Flux, though he can use it if he wanted to.

    Hovering around for a little bit around the room, he was able to measure that the room was around 500 cubic meters in size, which was quiterge for a room made out of stone. Of course, he knew that he was already inside the inheritance, but what was weird was that the inheritance did not even start, nor was there any sign of the inheritance starting at all. He did not hear a monotonous voice, see any part of the room moving, nothing.

    That was until¡­a voice resounded in his mind.

    ¡°The inheritor has not met the necessary requirements to partake in the inheritance.¡±

    ¡°Eh?¡± Of course, the first thing Aurus felt was intense confusion. After all, if you were an Inanimate at the S-grade level that could fight or even kill X-grade Inanimates like they were tofu, you would feel that having insufficient requirements is thest of your worries.

    ¡°What am I missing?¡± Aurus could not help but ask. He had offensive skills, defensive skills, supportive skills, movement skills, misceneous skills, and somewhat everything in between. Thankfully, the voice that resounded in his mind a while ago answered this question.

    ¡°The inheritor has not met the necessary requirements to partake in the inheritance in terms of Soul Power. The inheritor¡¯s Soul Power is only 4, please increase it to 7 or greater to partake in the inheritance.¡±

    ¡°Soul Power?¡± Aurus was stunned for a moment after hearing the voice¡¯s words before mulling over it for a bit. After a few seconds, as if a lightbulb shed in his mind, Aurus thenmanded the system, ¡°Open the Soul Enchantment System.¡±

    Ding!

    Like clockwork, the system revealed a holographic screen in front of Aurus regarding the Soul Enchantment System. After skimming over it for a bit, Aurus could not help but chuckle and say, ¡°Yep. I was right.¡±

    ________

    [Soul Enchantment System]

    Soul Power: 4

    ¡ª¡ª¨C

    Soul Sigils:

    [Rank 0 ¡ª Sigils of Tempering] ¨C 0/3

    [Rank 1 ¡ª ???? ?? ??????] ¨C Needs the Sigils of Tempering to be mastered

    ________

    ¡°Soul Power¡­if I remember what I read back then, I should carve Soul Sigils to increase my Soul Power,¡± Aurus muttered beforemanding the system, ¡°Upgrade the Sigils of Tempering.¡±

    Ding!

    Not long after, a prompt appeared in front of the screen that showed the Soul Enchantment System, asking Aurus, ¡®Would you like to use 1 Genesis Point to upgrade the Sigils of Tempering to Level 1/3?¡¯

    ¡°Hoh? The system uses Genesis Points to carve Soul Sigils?¡± Aurus was slightly surprised to find this out. ¡°I guess I have to fight more bosses since I also have to use Genesis Points for the Genesis Tree.¡±

    Although Aurus had more than enough points to tinker with the Genesis Tree he was talking about, he made a promise in his mind to only tinker with the tree once he had over 100 Genesis Points. And thanks to the Soul Enchantment System also using Genesis Points, it would take him a bit longer to save up 100 Genesis Points¡­unless he went on a boss killing spree after clearing the inheritance.

    Also, who knew whether or whether not the inheritance would give out Genesis Points for him?

    Ding!

    ¡®Sigils of Tempering has been upgraded to 1/3.¡¯

    Whoosh!

    As the notification popped up in front of Aurus¡¯ field of vision, Aurus¡¯ consciousness was frozen to a still as he heard a gust of wind blow through his mind, a surge of intangible energy entering his soul in an instant before forming a rune in his mind. And just like that, the first Soul Sigil that was part of the Sigils of Tempering was carved in Aurus¡¯ soul without any pain whatsoever.

    After a few seconds, Aurus¡¯ consciousness was returned to normal, allowing him to check the changes in the Soul Enchantment System, specifically his Soul Power.

    ________

    [Soul Enchantment System]

    Soul Power: 5 (Damage +10%)

    ¡ª¡ª¨C

    [Rank 0 ¡ª Sigils of Tempering] ¨C 1/3

    [Rank 1 ¡ª ???? ?? ??????] ¨C Needs the Sigils of Tempering to be mastered

    _________

    ¡°Oh?¡± Aurus noticed that there were a few words beside his Soul Power, regarding about a boost in his damage output. Though it did surprise him quite a bit, it was not too shocking since he had a skill like [Zenith Spirit Transcendence] to boost his damage by a superb amount. ¡°I need to carve 2 more Soul Sigils of Tempering, then I can partake in the inheritance.¡±

    ¡°Let¡¯s do just that then!¡±

    ¡°Upgrade the Sigils of Tempering to its maximum level.¡±

    Ding!

    Just like before, another prompt appeared in front of the Soul Enchantment System¡¯s screen, asking Aurus, ¡®Would you like to use 3 Genesis Points to upgrade the Sigils of Tempering to 3/3?¡¯

    Without hesitation, Aurus replied with a ¡°Yes.¡±

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    Again, just like before, Aurus¡¯ consciousness frozen to a still as he heard two gusts of wind this time, carrying arger surge of intangible energy towards his soul as two Soul Sigils were carved beside the Soul Sigil that was carved earlier, forming aplete picture that resonated with his soul, elevating his soul to a level that made it firmer and stronger than before.

    If Aurus¡¯ soul before the addition of Soul Sigils was like a house made out of pieces of wood that was just found in the surroundings, then the addition of theplete set of Soul Sigils allowed the pieces of wood to be uniform and create a sturdy house that one could live in.

    Ding!

    ¡®Sigils of Tempering has been upgraded to 3/3.¡¯

    ¡®Due to the Sigils of Tempering beingplete, another point of Soul Power has been added.¡¯

    ¡®Due to the Sigils of Tempering beingplete, the next set of Soul Sigils, the Sigils of Inner Tempering, has been unlocked.¡¯

    Skimming through the notifications that appeared in front of his field of vision after his consciousness went back to normal, Aurus then checked the changes in the Soul Enchantment System.

    ________

    [Soul Enchantment System]

    Soul Power: 8 (Damage +40%)

    ¡ª¡ª¨C

    [Rank 0 ¡ª Sigils of Tempering] ¨C Mastered

    [Rank 1 ¡ª Sigils of Inner Tempering] ¨C 0/5

    [Rank Upper 1 ¡ª ???? ?? ?? ????] ¨C Needs the Sigils of Inner Tempering to be mastered

    ________

    ¡°I finally have enough Soul Power to partake in the inheritance,¡± Aurus could not help but say as he tried to make the voice that resounded in his mind a while ago react to his change.

    He moved for a bit around the room, before getting a response from the inheritance in the form of the voice that resounded in his mind before.

    ¡°The inheritor has met all the necessary requirements needed to partake in the inheritance.¡±

    ¡°Measuring the inheritor¡¯s skills and stats¡­¡±

    ¡°Measurementplete. Inheritance difficulty has been set to A.¡±

    ¡°Reward has been changed to adjust to new inheritance difficulty.¡±

    ¡°Inheritance has been adjusted to three trials.¡±

    After this, a long silence filled the whole room. This was destroyed not long after as Aurus¡¯ body turned incorporeal before disappearing from the room altogether, concurrently with the voice that resounded in his mind saying¡­

    ¡°Inheritor, wee to the Inheritance of Area 52.¡±

 Chapter 109: The Key

    Chapter 109: The Key

    While Aurus and Herellia were inside the inheritance of Area 52 in order to obtain Comprehension Leaves, a pair of Animates were currently traversing through thends of the continent whose name still remains unknown.

    The first Animate was a man who looked somewhat chivalrous and valiant as a de that exuded intense Wind energy could be seen hanging by the side as the Wind energy particles in his surroundings seemed to caress him. On the other hand, the second Animate was someone who looked in his middle ages, yet was able to keep pace with the first Animate thanks to the mana circting throughout his body as he continued to cast spells.

    Indeed, they were Dane and Vanadir, heading out towards a certain ce in the continent whose name is unknown to hunt and allow Vanadir to transition into a higher ranked ss.

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    ¡°Uh¡­¡± While traversing with Vanadir beside him, Dane could not help but ask, ¡°Your Highness, do you know where we¡¯re going?¡±

    ¡°Of course I do!¡± Vanadir replied with a light smile, filled with confidence. ¡°Though it has already been a few days since we¡¯ve left the pce, I¡¯m definitely sure we¡¯re getting close! We¡¯re bound to reach Greater Tempest Cliff soon enough!¡±

    With the ce ¡®Great Tempest Cliff¡¯ being spoken, Dane could not help but sigh and shake his head as memories resurfaced in his mind.

    A few days ago, Dane brought the masterwork weapon made by him and Kelsey named Magnus Tempestria to the ninth prince Vanadir as a way to increase the chances of the ninth prince to win the spot for the throne and be hailed as the king of Seraph Kingdom.

    Of course, Vanadir was quite enthralled by the appearance of Magnus Tempestria, even more so once he knew that the weapon was a high quality Grand grade weapon. But the straw that broke the camel¡¯s back was the fact that the sword was blessed by a god, though the both of them did not know that it was just a Lesser God. Nheless, Vanadir was exhrated to use the sword out, not wanting to keep it in some sort of case for months before using it only in the tournament for the throne.

    He wanted to experience the sword¡¯s full power.

    ¡°Let¡¯s go hunt!¡± Vanadir could not help but stand up from his seat as he looked at Dane with his eyes twinkling.

    Thankfully, Dane was able to adapt to Vanadir¡¯s current mood and sipped a bit of the tea he was supposed to finish before standing up and nodding. ¡°If that¡¯s what Your Highness, then that¡¯s what we¡¯ll do then. I reckon that you¡¯ve asked permission from His Majesty King Seraphim before going out to hunt?¡±

    ¡°Urk.¡± In an instant, Vanadir was left speechless after Dane¡¯s timely advice. He wryly chuckled for a bit before looking at Dane and replying, ¡°Thanks for the reminder Dane. I forgot about the things that could possibly happen before the tournament right there.¡±

    What Vanadir was talking about when he mentioned the things that could possibly happen before the tournament, it was none other than death. Murder, poisoning, assassination, any method possible to kill princes in order to boost the chances of other princes in winning the spot for the throne.

    This was not a rare urrence at all in the Seraph Kingdom, even obtaining news of 3 princes other than him being stabbed, poisoned, and tortured respectively a few months before the uing tournament.

    cing Magnus Tempestria on the table, Vanadir willed a part of his mana outside his body as it formed a talisman that went towards a certain direction not long after. A few secondster, a talisman came back and halted in front of Dane¡¯s body, covering his body in a mysterious aura before dissipating.

    Seeing that he was covered in a mysterious aura that was the aura of Seraph royalty to be exact, Vanadir looked at the patient Dane before grabbing the sword once more and saying with a smile, ¡°Okay! I¡¯ve received permission to go out hunting as long as I bring a trusted person of the royal family with me to act as my bodyguard.¡±

    ¡°And that would be¡­¡± Dane then followed up with this question.

    Pointing the sword¡¯s tip towards Dane, Vanadir chuckled lightly and replied, ¡°Who else would it be other than you, Dane!¡±

    Dane heard Vanadir¡¯s reply and lightly smiled as he replied, ¡°I thank the Prince¡¯s generosity.¡±

    ¡°So, where are we heading off Your Highness?¡± After pondering for a bit, Dane decided to ask this question.

    ¡°Hmm¡­I didn¡¯t think of that.¡± Vanadir hemmed and hawed for a bit as he thought up of ces that would be incredibly suitable for his ss before settling on a ce that was not that far away from the kingdom.

    ¡°Aha! Let¡¯s head towards the Greater Tempest Cliff!¡± Vanadir answered after a bit with great fervor, running towards the exit of the pce not long after with his absurdly high Agility.

    ¡°Let us head there then.¡± Dane smiled as he started to chant movement boosting spells.

    ¡°2nd Circle. Child of the Wind.¡±

    ¡°3rd Circle. Ephemeral Tempest.¡±

    ¡°3rd Circle. Unyielding Body.¡±

    ¡°2nd Circle. Breeze Flutter.¡±

    ¡°4th Circle. Grand Hover Art.¡±

    Whoosh!

    And just like that, they headed out of the pce towards the Greater Tempest Cliff¡­ending up where they were at the moment.

    ¡°Your Highness, you can confess that you have a poor sense of direction,¡± Dane tried to console Vanadir, who tried to maintain a facade of happiness as they continued to run. ¡°As long as you admit it, I¡¯ll summon a map of the continent in an instant.¡±

    Although Vanadir was quite tempted and wanted to test out the power of the sword at this instant, he decided to be stubborn in his ways and replied, ¡°No need for maps! I¡¯ll rely on my intuition to find our way there!¡±

    Hearing Vanadir¡¯s reply, Dane could not help but sigh in reply as he decided to not meddle with Vanadir¡¯s decisions anymore and follow him from behind.

    Thud.

    As he thought of this in his mind, Dane instantly felt a calling at the back of his mind, prompting to look at where it came from and was shocked to find out what it was.

    ¡°Spiritas¡­¡± Dane muttered to himself as he remembered this word.

    ¡°After all this time, it still hasn¡¯t been used as a material?¡±

    ¡­

    Within the inheritance of Area 52, in a boring and cube shaped room of stone.

    ¡°Inheritor, wee to the inheritance of Area 52,¡± the voice that resounded in Aurus¡¯ mind stated.

    Hearing the name ¡®Area 52¡¯, Aurus could not help but ask himself, ¡°To think that there¡¯s such an area like this in this world¡­is this a joke or is it actually true?¡±

    ¡°Anyways, I just came here forprehension leaves. I have no need to know the history of the inheritance.¡± Deciding that it would be futile for him to think about the origin of the name any further, Aurus ced this thought at the back of his head.

    ¡°Due to the increased difficulty of the inheritance, the amount of trials the inheritor has to clear has been increased as well.¡± Not long after, the voice continued to talk.

    ¡°The inheritor now has to face three trials, these trials being Comprehension, Logic, and Soul Strength in that order,¡± the voice added on.

    ¡°Comprehension, Logic, and Soul Strength huh¡­¡± Aurus muttered to himself. ¡°They definitely have something to do with Comprehension Leaves.¡±

    ¡°In ten minutes, the inheritor shall face the Trial of Comprehension. Failure to clear this trial shall mean forefeiting the chance of gaining the rewards from the inheritance, as well as the key of the inheritance.¡±

    ¡°So if I lose, I get kicked out with no rewards whatsoever and no key.¡± Aurus thought of this and nodded inwardly as if it was a matter of fact. ¡°Wait a second.¡±

    ¡°Key?¡±

    ¡°What type of key?¡± In an instant, Aurus¡¯ interest and motivation shot up to its peak, changing Aurus¡¯ indifferent attitude to that of an extremely motivated and goal oriented one.

    ¡°Guess I¡¯ll have to take this inheritance seriously. Who knows what this key to the inheritance may bring.¡±

    ¡°Oh, and the Comprehension Leaf.¡±

 Chapter 110: Comprehension

    Chapter 110: Comprehension

    With his motivation rekindled to an unbelievable height akin to an incredibly ardent me that could swallow mountains and seas thanks to the unexpected key of the inheritance, Aurus decided to take things more seriously unlike what he did before in the Tempest Cliff Inheritance. Though he became the owner of said inheritance in the end, the previous owner of the inheritance gave him this position without his own volition, basically attributing it to his own luck.

    This time, he did not want to rely on his own luck. Although he knew that after he was reincarnated into a stick¡­well, we can call him a Spiritas Flux now, that his luck had turned for the better, allowing him to achieve great things and gain multiple rewards unlike other Inanimates out there, he wanted to see how far he could push his rationality and logicality in order to achieve the same effects of his stupidly good luck.

    As to why he decided to do this, it was because of the fact that this inheritance he was currently going to attempt revolved around the Comprehension Leaf. Hence it would make sense if the inheritor had to use their brain¡¯s power to the limit, right?

    And so, Aurus decided to think up of a n as to how he was going to clear the inheritance without any problem. The only obstacle blocking his way from this happening was the fact that¡­he had no clue whatsoever as to whaf mechanics these trials had.

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡± Knowing fully well that he had 10 minutes before the trials start, Aurus decided to use this spare time to create a few ns for the first trial. In other words, creating educated guesses and using the one n that fits the actual trial when it happens.

    ¡°From the name of the trial alone, Comprehension, one would pretty much think that the trial would revolve around the inheritor¡¯s speed of understanding a certain thing,¡± Aurus muttered to himself as his mind geared into overdrive, creating multiple what ifs in the process.

    ¡°Butprehending something is different from understanding something as theprehension of a certain thing would allow one to gleam into the essence of said thing, reducing the difficulty of understanding said thing towards a tolerable level, while understanding said thing would only grasp the intricacies of said thing, but not the essence, allowing one to have knowledge of said thing, but not truly all of the knowledge of said thing.¡±

    While talking to himself, Aurus noticed that his mind was moving faster than before, even allowing him to think of concepts that were not even there in the first ce. Slightly surprised, he could not help but ask himself, ¡°Is this the effect of increasing one¡¯s Soul Power?¡±

    Since he had no basis as to whether increasing Soul Power would do just that, Aurus ced this question at the back of his mind and continued to mull over the mechanics of the trial, finally arriving to a few conclusions almost two minutes before the start of the first trial.

    ¡­

    ¡°Finally, I¡¯vee up with three possible mechanics for the first trial.¡± Aurus let out a sigh of relief as he looked at the three motes of light that intangibly existed in his head, containing the three possible mechanics he hade up with.

    ¡°The first mechanic for the first trial would probably be a trial where the inheritance would give me some sort of text, and from there I would have to try and grasp the essence of the text as fast as possible.¡±

    ¡°The second mechanic would probably be a trial where the inheritance would give me a skill for me to read over, and from there I would have to grasp the essence of the skill and improve it to a great degree, basically creating my own skill from a derived skill.¡±

    ¡°Andstly, the third mechanic would probably be a trial where the inheritance would give me a certain item which I would have to examine, delve deeper, and grasp the essence of, creating some sort of output from this bout ofprehension.¡±

    And with that, Aurus¡¯ three conclusions were stated by him as the few remaining seconds left before the start of the trial ticked away into nothingness, revealing the voice that resounded ten minutes earlier as it announced the mechanics of the trial.

    ¡°Ten minutes are now over, inheritor. The first trial of the inheritance of Area 52 shall now begin.¡±

    ¡°The Trial of Comprehension shall test the user¡¯s skills in enhancing and expounding on extremely basic techniques, creating a myriad of things out of a single thing. The inheritance shall give the inheritor a basic technique to enhance and expound upon with a fixed time span of 2 hours. Not only that, the amount of experience needed to enhance said technique would be halved, while the amount of experience obtained from expounding on the technique shall be doubled. In other words, the speed at which the inheritor shallprehend the technique will be quadrupled.¡±

    ¡°In order to pass the first trial, the inheritor must, at the very least, enhance this technique of Mortal grade to Transcendent grade. If the inheritor goes beyond this grade, then the inheritor shall obtain additional rewards on top of the fixed rewards. Note that the enhanced technique cannot be kept by the inheritor.¡±

    Hearing the mechanics from the disembodied voice and trying to grasp the essence of said mechanics, Aurus could not help but dumbfounded as he muttered, ¡°So¡­my three conclusions are useless in the end?¡±

    That was the right, the three conclusions he created were in fact, not even close to the mechanics of the actual trial. Well¡­the second one was incredibly close, but it veered off along the way.

    In simple terms, the mechanics of the first trial were like this.

    One, the inheritance would give Aurus an incredibly basic technique.

    Second, Aurus would have to enhance and expound upon the technique, increasing its intricacies andplexities along the way.

    In simpler terms, Aurus would have to enhance and evolve the technique he would obtain from tbe inheritance.

    Now, as the creator of the Celestial ne, the wielder of the one and only Primordial Decree¡­what has Aurus been doing all this time?

    Right! He has been enhancing and evolving techniques from the start!

    In other words, Aurus would be able to clear this trial without a problem! If one thinks about it deeper, he would even go beyond!

    Why?

    Because of a certain passive skill that allowed him to be where he was now. That¡¯s right, [Blessing of the Reincarnation Goddess]. It effectively increases his experience acquisition rate by 50 percent, which would mean that he would not obtain four times the amount of experience needed to level a skill but rather¡­six times the experience!

    Coming to this conclusion, Aurus could not help but chuckle softly. After a bit, it turned into raucousughter. Not long after, it turned into a cackle that greatly resounded throughout therge yet in stone room of the inheritance.

    It took him around a minute or so to finally regain hisposure and notice that the first trial had already started. Realizing this, his mood had turned serious as he noticed an incredibly bright mote of light at the center of therge room, easily deducing that this mote of light held the technique he had to enhance and evolve.

    With a cheerful aura covering his body, he activated [Tempest Levitation] in order to drastically enhance his movement speed, reaching the mote of light in what seemed to be an instant for Inanimates.

    As his body touched the mote of light, the mote of light burst out into a myriad of colors, covering Aurus¡¯ body with various colors as he shouted with glee, ¡°It¡¯s time to grind!¡±

    ¡­

    While Aurus was teeming with happiness as he started his first trial from the inheritance of Area 52, in another boring yetrge stone room that spanned at least twice the area than Aurus¡¯ room.

    Herellia stood¡­well¡­uh¡­stood at a certain ce within the room that was nowhere near the center, calmly assessing her surroundings as she waited for the inheritance to make its move.

    And make its move it did.

    While Herellia was looking at her surroundings, a voice resounded throughout her mind, stating, ¡°Inheritor, wee to the inheritance of Area 52.¡±

    ¡°Through a thorough scan, the inheritance has deemed the inheritor not a inheritor, but rather, a candidate for the position of ruler as the ruler candidate has the Bronze Key of Area 52.¡±

    ¡°Unfortunately, this Bronze Key would only allow the ruler candidate to obtain a position of Marquis at most.¡±

    ¡°Would the ruler candidate like to go through the Trials of the Ruler to enhance the Bronze Key to a Silver Key?¡±

    As Herellia heard these statements and questionse from the inheritance, Herellia could not help but ask herself why she entered the inheritance again. To be honest, Herellia was only introduced to the Bronze Key once she cleared the inheritance, only aiming for the Comprehension Leaf at most.

    But when she found out about the effects of the Bronze Key, Herellia could not help but ponder as to what effects the keys of higher quality would have. Unfortunately, Herellia did not have another chance to enter the inheritance as she had to manage the alliance.

    That was until¡­Aurus came.

    Under the guise of protecting Aurus along the way, Herellia was now attempting the inheritance one more time, wanting to seek the limits of this inheritance¡¯s key.

    Without hesitation, Herellia responded, ¡°I would like to go through the Trials of the Ruler.¡±

    A few seconds of silence pass by before the voice could respond. Not only that, this voice was now different from before as it contained a small hint of vitality in it.

    ¡°Ruler candidate, from the power you exude, I see that you are deemed fit for a path that wouldbine speed and blood. Not only that, you also exude great strength beneath that speed, allowing me to ask you the question¡­¡±

    ¡°As the Supreme Ruler, would you like to tread the Trials of the Sanguine Ruler, bing a Sanguine Ruler yourself?¡±

    At first, Herellia was dumbfounded as she did not really expect that her powers would be taken into consideration as she pursued a key of higher quality. But since she pursued great strength, this coincidence was definitely great timing.

    ¡°I shall tread the trials.¡±

    Bang!

    ¡°So be it.¡±

    ¡°We shall now witness the birth of a new Sanguine Ruler.¡±

    ¡°Let the Trials of the Sanguine Ruler¡­¡±

    ¡°Begin.¡±

 Chapter 111: Skill Mutation

    Chapter 111: Skill Mutation

    Whoosh!

    As the rays of light started to cover Aurus¡¯ body, an influx of information entered his mind as Aurus obtained information on a new skill which was given to him by the inheritance. It only took Aurus a few seconds to digest this surge, the rays of light disappearing not long after.

    After that, he decided tond on the spot where the mote of light he absorbed originally resided, knowing fully well that it was just a waste of time for him to move through the room in order to find a good spot. He was not some sort of Animate that did not feelfortable at one spot, deciding to move to another. Well¡­he previously was one.

    ¡°Well then, let¡¯s see what I obtained.¡± As Aurus said this to himself, he brought up of the notification log of the system, allowing him to glean upon the name of the new skill.

    Ding!

    ¡®Aurus has obtained [Spirit Tempering].¡¯

    ¡°Hmm¡­[Spirit Tempering]. From the name alone, does this have something to do with Soul Power?¡± Aurus could not help but ask himself this question as he opened up the detailed information of this skill.

    It was not wrong for Aurus toe to this conclusion as the word Spirit would always be associated with the soul or energy rted to soul. Not only that, even though he only had a rough grasp as to what Soul Power could do, he knew very well that this would allow him to grow stronger much quicker.

    Ding!

    Once the skill detail screen popped up in front of the notification log, Aurus skimmed through the description in an instant, with his aura changing into that of excitement and disappointment.

    ________

    [Spirit Tempering]

    Level: 1/3 (0/3)

    Grade: C (Mortal)

    The spirit, also known as the soul, is the most important of any being as it allows the being to do things unimaginable for those who don¡¯t have consciousness. Through tempering the spirit, the vessel¡¯s connection with the spirit bes strengthened, allowing the vessel to emit greater power at the same level of power the spirit emits or even less.

    Note that the increase in power only works with the being¡¯s original form. Any other form is considered a false vessel by the spirit.

    Stat boost: 0.5%

    ________

    ¡°Eh? Do I really have to?¡± Aurus could not help but ask himself as he read the skill¡¯s description multiple times. Seeing that there was no other choice, Aurus could not help but sigh as he dispelled his morphing skill, reverting back to his wooden sculpture appearance.

    ¡°Although this appearance does allow me to wear armor, I am still not used to it,¡± Aurus could not help but say as he instantly felt a small surge of power spreading throughout his current form.

    ¡°Oh? Is this the boost given by the skill?¡± Although it was just a minute difference, Aurus had a feeling that this minute difference would allow the current Aurus to triumph over the Aurus who did not revert to his original form.

    Ding!

    Just as he was trying to get a feel for the surge of power, a notification sounded in his mind, disrupting his flow as his aura turned into that of slight anger.

    Composing himself, he then looked at the notification that popped up and was baffled at the sight.

    ¡®[Barrier of the Spiritas] has long reached the MAX level. Using the prolonged exposure to skill experience, it has broken through its peak and reached a new level. Thanks to the prolonged exposure to skill experience at its current grade, once it evolves, there¡¯s a guaranteed chance that the skill will mutate into Special grade.¡¯

    ¡°Eh? Why haven¡¯t I seen this notification before?¡± Aurus was befuddled at the sight as he knew that [Barrier of the Spiritas] was only a C-grade Mortal skill. He decided to open up his notification log all the way, making him dumbfounded and leaving him at a loss for words.

    ¡®[Barrier of the Spiritas] has leveled up.¡¯

    ¡®[Barrier of the Spiritas] has leveled up.¡¯

    ¡®[Barrier of the Spiritas] has reached the MAX level.¡¯

    ¡®[Barrier of the Spiritas] has met the necessary requirements and is ready to evolve.¡¯

    ¡®[Barrier of the Spiritas] has noticed the user¡¯s neglect towards it, deciding to use the system¡¯s experience for its own improvement.¡¯

    ¡®[Barrier of the Spiritas] has been continuously infusing itself with experience, taking the user¡¯s neglect as motivation to be a better skill.¡¯

    ¡®[Barrier of the Spiritas] has greatly improved from its previous version, but is saddened by the fact that the user still neglects it. Nheless, it continues to infuse itself with experience.¡¯

    ¡®[Barrier of the Spiritas] has reached the point where it could improve itself no further, feeling that it has possibly reached its peak. It is still saddened by the fact that it is neglected.¡¯

    Reading through the notifications left by the skill, Aurus could not help but feel bad as he neglected the skill. He felt as if the skill was a child that was not being given attention, though that was not really the case.

    Nheless, he calmed his emotions once more and looked at this from another perspective,ing to the question, ¡°So the Learning module of the system¡¯s AI actually allows the skill to mutate to a greater grade once it¡¯s evolved?¡±

    With this thought, he tried to remember whether or whether he had OS Point saved from his boss killing spree, remembering that he had around 2 points left as he felt that maxing out the Battle module was not necessary at his current level.

    Removing [Barrier of the Spiritas] from the Learning module, he then used the two remaining OS Points to increase the Learning module¡¯s level to 3, increasing the amount of skills that could be mutate at once to 2.

    He then evolved [Barrier of the Spiritas] afterwards, instantly noticing a great difference in the skill as the name was shown to him.

    ¡®Aurus has evolved [Barrier of the Spiritas] to [Unyielding Shield of the Spiritas Magnus (Special)].¡¯

    ¡°Well that¡¯s a mouthful,¡± Aurus could not help but say.

    Of course, this situation did not let Aurus forget what he had to do, which was to boost the grade of [Spirit Tempering] as much as possible. This was also the reason why he removed [Barrier of the Spiritas] from the Learning module, which now had an additional space for skills.

    ¡°ce [Spirit Tempering] into the Learning module.¡±

    Ding!

    ¡®[Spirit Tempering] has been inserted into the Learning module, allowing the skill to passively earn experience as well as improve chances of mutating to a skill of higher grade.¡¯

    With this prompt popping up from the system, Aurus then started grinding out the skill¡¯s level.

    ¡°Huu¡­haa¡­¡±

    Through the pores on his wooden skin, he absorbed the energy particles surrounding his body as it rushed towards the spirit located in his mind, gradually being tempered as the spirit gradually became thicker.

    Within seconds, multiple notifications sounded from the system, prompting Aurus to inwardlymand, ¡°Evolve [Spirit Tempering]!¡±

    Ding!

    In an instant, the spirit that had slightly thickened from before, had condensed itself into a smaller size. Nheless, the thickness remained, though it seemed that the spirit could still grow stronger unlike before.

    ¡®[Spirit Tempering] has been evolved to [Enhanced Spirit Tempering].¡¯

    ¡°Well that was fast.¡±

    ¡°Let¡¯s continue.¡±

    ¡­

    Within the Celestial ne.

    As Kurohana looked at the current ce where Aurus was and saw what he was doing through the orb, Kurohana could not help but let out a sigh of relief as she muttered to herself, ¡°Well, the thing I did will take effect from days to weeks. For me, that¡¯s around hours at the very least, days at most. I can afford to take my time on this one.¡±

    ¡°Especially with such a problem in the Celestial ne.¡± As she said this to herself, the killing intent that was nonexistent around her in the first ce, instantly showed itself, slightly dying Kurohana¡¯s surroundings a faint red.

    Rather than suppressing this intent, Kurohana let it flow throughout naturally as she looked at her slightly red surroundings.

    ¡°It seems that my killing intent has umted enough. If my calctions are correct, this would allow the Asuras of my Law of Reincarnation to grow stronger, allowing my attack power to grow stronger as well.¡±

    After pondering over it for a bit, Kurohana closed her eyes as strands of multicolored energy started to manifest around her body as she started to chant an incantation.

    ¡°With the Celestial ne as the Origin and my body as the Guide, let my Spirit be split apart yet joined as one as the Spirit treads two paths.¡±

    As she chanted this, an intangible golden ball started to hover over her head as it slowly tore itself in the middle, the crack being filled with the strands of multicolored energy along the way.

    ¡°The Primordial Decree is the true way, the Transcendent Canons are evesting, the Immortal Verdicts are all-seeing, and my Law is nothing but a vessel that could engulf all. With this, I decree that a great part of my power shall be nted into a new vessel.¡±

    ¡°2nd Grand Divinity Circle. Judiciaris Duplicatem Maximilliei.¡±

    ¡°Divine Duplication.¡±

    Whoosh!

    At that instant, the intangible golden ball hovering over Kurohana was now split into two. The weird thing was that, one ball was incrediblyrge whenpared to the other ball, that was only the size of a pea.

    A few secondster, therger ball started to wander off from the smaller ball as the remaining strands of multicolored energy rushed towards therger ball.

    As for the smaller ball, this entered Kurohana¡¯s body that had its eyes closed after all this time, which promptly opened an instantter.

    Looking at therger ball with a slightly fatigued face, she then used her fingernail to create a gash on another finger, letting her blood drip on the floor before manipting the blood that dripped to head towards therger ball.

    Swish! Fwoosh!

    At the instant the blood and therger ball collided, therger ball went into a drastic change, elongating itself and morphing itself in various ces as it gradually took on the color of flesh. Around ten secondster, a perfect clone of Kurohana appeared in front of the slightly fatigued Kurohana¡­without clothes.

    The slightly fatigued Kurohana snapped her fingers as the white cube covered the cloned Kurohana in a white dress not long after.

    ¡°As you are my clone, to avoid confusion, I shall call you Shirohana,¡± Kurohana said as she faced her clone. ¡°With 90% of my full power and my memories, you shall help Nix fend off against the demons that threaten the Celestial ne.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s fine by me, Kurohana,¡± Shirohana replied. ¡°Nheless, we are still one entity, so when your body is in grave danger, I won¡¯t hesitate to stop whatever I¡¯m doing to save the remaining part of you.¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t mind that at all, although the chances of me being danger is quite slim, seeing that I¡¯m inside our pce.¡±

    ¡°Fair enough.¡± Shirohana lightly chuckled. She then turned around before saying, ¡°Let¡¯s see whether we can kill Hinari and Hodazuka or not.¡±

    ¡°We¡¯ll definitely see.¡±

    Whoosh!

    And just like that, Shirohana, the stronger portion of Kurohana, was now gone from the white cube, heading towards the Hall of Greater Divinity as Kurohana was left behind, looking at the orb as she infused Aurus with luck as always.

    ¡°I wonder what could happen during my power is split.¡±

    ¡°I hope it ain¡¯t anything bad.¡±

 Chapter 112: Cant Think Up of a Good Title

    Chapter 112: Can¡¯t Think Up of a Good Title

    While Kurohana had separated a great chunk of her power onto a clone of herself in order to help Nix and the other godsbat against the demons who seemed to threaten the Celestial ne¡­

    Within Erudinia, XXXX Continent, far away from the Seraph Kingdom.

    ¡°Haah¡­haah¡­how far are we from the kingdom?¡± A young man who had a crown on his head and was covered in an aura of royalty, could not help but look hispanion by the side and ask this question while panting.

    ¡°You know, Your Highness, if you admit your mistakes, we might have been in the Greater Tempest Cliff at this time, allowing you to polish yourbat skills and Ascension skill in order to transition into a Rank 3 Adept Windwalker. Then again, this situation does allow you to suppress your arrogance and pride.¡± On the other hand, the young man¡¯spanion, who seemed to not run out of stamina, could not help but look at the young man with an indifferent gaze, as if the things the young man had done had nothing to do with him.

    These two were none other than Vanadir and Dane, who, in these past few hours or so, have not gotten close to the Greater Tempest Cliff at all.

    Feeling the pangs of exhaustion and hunger getting stronger after incessantly running through the continent for a few days already, Vanadir decided to strip off his pride and arrogance and hurriedly sat down as he gasped for air. After getting enough oxygen from the surroundings and drinking a sip of water from a pouch he prepared, Vanadir looked at the standing Dane beside him and let out a sigh.

    ¡°Fine, I admit my mistakes. Please use your powers to lead us to the Greater Tempest Cliff, oh great Dane,¡± Vanadir said as he put on a false air of worship and reverence.

    ¡°I don¡¯t really like being worshipped, plus that sounded sarcastic so¡­¡± Listening to Vanadir¡¯s words, Dane could not help but mull over his decision. After a short bit, he then said, ¡°You know what, because of that, I¡¯ll just sit down and wait for you to be sincere with your words.¡±

    Just as Dane was about to sit down beside Vanadir, Vanadir hurriedly stood up and waved his hands erraticly as he eximed, ¡°No, no, no! I apologize! I sincerely apologize! Dane, please take us to the Greater Tempest Cliff! I¡¯m sorry for doing that!¡±

    Halfway through his process of sitting down, Dane abruptly heard the prince¡¯s plea, causing him to stand up once more as he let out a sigh before looking at Vanadir with a light smile.

    ¡°There we go.¡±

    ¡°Stand up, Vanadir,¡± Dane said, to which Vanadir promptlyplied. After that, Dane then channeled all of the mana in his body towards thr surroundings, enveloping the two in his mana.

    He then raised both of his hands as a magic circle appeared a few centimeters away from both of them, expanding bit by bit.

    Oneyer, twoyers, threeyers¡­

    In an instant, a fouryered magic circle was created by Dane as he looked at Vanadir, who was visibly astounded by Dane¡¯s magical prowess.

    ¡°Hold onto my robe tightly, Your Highness!¡± Maintaining most of his attention towards the magic circle, Dane could not help but say as a warning to the prince. He then shouted, ¡°4th Circle, Void Shift!¡±

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    At the very next instant, the magic circle expanded to envelop the two as it covered them in a ck light. Not long after, this ck light dissipated into thin air, leaving no trace of the two being there in the first ce.

    It was only a matter of time until the two reached the Greater Tempest Cliff.

    But that¡¯s another tale saved forter.

    ¡­

    In another part of XXXX Continent, specifically within the boundaries of Tempest Cliff, Horell was currently circting all of the SP in his body as it grew more viscous and purer in terms of quality.

    Kacha! Kacha!

    A few minutester, cracking sounds could be hearding from his body as his body glowed a faint blue, only for the glow to be suppressed by his will not a momentter.

    Horell could not help but let out a satisfied sigh as he opened his sense of vision, looking at the changes the thing he did brought to his body.

    ¡°Finally, after multiple months of arduous effort, I¡¯ve finally achieved an X-grade Transcendent SP Vessel. Not only that, my Spell Core has even reached S-grade Transcendent level.¡±

    As he muttered these words to himself, Horell then started to chant an incantations as his Spell Core glowed a faint blue.

    ¡°[Self Appraisal].¡±

    Whoosh!

    As he casted this spell, multiple strands of blue energy from the surroundings started to coalesce in front of Horell¡¯s field of vision, creating a screen that was akin to Aurus and Herellia¡¯s system screens. Nheless, this screen had information that was more basic whenpared to theirs.

    ________

    Horell

    Level: MAX

    Species: Mana Forminosus Energistus (disguised as Branch Grandius Formosus ¡ª High Energistus)

    [Heaven-defying SP Vessel] has been evolved to [Sky Sundering SP Vessel]

    ________

    ¡°I wonder what would happen if I evolved with a skill at the Divine level?¡± Knowing very well that his SP Vessel was now at the X-grade Transcendent level, he could dy his evolution further and allow him to evolve into an Animate with a Divine level skill.

    Nheless, the question, ¡°Will the trial of transition be harder?¡± lingered in his mind. In the end, he decided to just go with the flow and see what happens along the way.

    ¡°By now, I¡¯m pretty sure Master has solidified his grasp over his newfound powers as a Rank 1 Animate.¡±

    ¡°Eventually, I¡¯ll be an Animate as well.¡±

    ¡°Just like Master.¡±

    ¡°I will never let you down.¡±

    ¡­

    As the Almighty Creator, sole wielder of the Primordial Decree, I beseech the words written on this novel to transform into that of transition!

    *insert transition here*

    Well¡­ that¡¯s good enough.

    Anyways, with those two things happening concurrently, another thing was taking ce within the Inheritance of Area 52 while Aurus was grinding the shit out of [Spirit Tempering].

    Of course, this thing had something to do with Herellia, who had the ulterior motive toe back to this inheritance in order to enhance her Bronze Key, only for her to find out that the key was a sign of her bing a ruler candidate.

    And now, she was treading the Trials of the Sanguine Ruler, which could hopefully make her be a Sanguine Ruler at the very end.

    ¡°[Supreme Sanguine Art: Rupture]!¡±

    Bang! Bang! Bang!

    At the moment, Herellia was currently facing against multiple branches and saplings of various shapes and sizes. The only simrity they had was that they exuded the aura of blood, which also coincided with the path Herellia was going to take.

    As she shouted the name of the skill, the blood red tendril that was connected to her body, gradually became thicker as it sweeped horizontally towards the enemies, instantly destroying the enemies into particles, particles that seemed to be the remnants of the blood aura they exuded.

    Whoosh! Whoosh! Swoosh!

    Not long after killing them all, these remaining particles then headed towards Herellia¡¯s body, which Herellia¡¯s body unconsciously absorbed as the aura surrounding her body turned more and more intense.

    Ding!

    ¡°A notification?¡± Herellia, who was recuperating her stamina after the previous one-sided fight, could not help but be dumbfounded at the thought of a notification. Did I level some skill up or something?

    Nheless, Herellia opened her notification log, to which she became dumbfounded after she skimmed through the notifications.

    ¡®A voice says, ¡®As the Sanguine Ruler, one should have the aura of blood always surrounding them. This trial shall help you consolidate your powers and even offer you the requirements needed to be a bona fide Sanguine Ruler.¡±

    ¡®You have absorbed the remnant blood aura of your enemies, obtaining the skill [Sanguine Aura (Lesser)]!¡¯

    ¡°I actually obtained a new skill from this trial?¡± Herellia could not help but ask herself as she looked at the notifications once more, and then at the skill description she opened up not long after.

    She then closed both screens a few secondster as she noticed that a new wave of enemies appeared a few meters away from where she was, around the double or triple the quantitypared to the wave she fought before.

    With a deep breath through her body, she then activated the full might of her newly obtained blood aura and muttered to herself, ¡°I guess there¡¯s no turning back. With this choice I¡¯ve made, there¡¯s definitely no turning back.¡±

    ¡°This is the path I¡¯ve chosen.¡±

    ¡°And I shall see it to the bitter end!¡±

    ¡°[Supreme Sanguine Art: Amaranthine Blossom]!¡±

    ¡­

    And finally, while those three things are happening concurrently (when are we going to get used to this?), within the Inheritance of Area 52, Aurus was assiduously enhancing and evolving the skill he obtained from the inheritance as part of the first trial, the Trial of Comprehension.

    At the current moment, Aurus was back to the form he had once he had evolved from A-grade to S-grade, a smooth white wooden sculpture. Well¡­at the current moment, he was tinted a green color due to his Flux being evolved, as well as the fact that he was radiating a light that was akin to the rays of heaven, which was all due to the current level of his [Spirit Tempering].

    Within the span of thirty minutes, Aurus was able to enhance and evolve the basic C-grade Mortal [Spirit Tempering] to the current X-grade Mortal [Boundless Spirit Tempering].

    Ding!

    Hearing the notification from the system, Aurus, who was enhancing [Boundless Spirit Tempering], could not help but open his sense of vision as he had a hunch as to what was going to happen next. He then brought up the notification log of the system, changing his aura into that of satisfaction and excitement.

    ¡®[Boundless Spirit Tempering] has leveled up.¡¯

    ¡®[Boundless Spirit Tempering] has reached the MAX level.¡¯

    ¡®[Boundless Spirit Tempering] has met the necessary requirements and is ready to transition into a new level of power.¡¯

    ¡®[Boundless Spirit Tempering] has been exposed to great amounts of skill experience, allowing it to inprove itself and refine to be something better. Once the skill evolves, the skill will have a guaranteed chance of bing a Special grade skill.¡¯

    Reading the notifications one by one, the aura around him intensified as he thenmanded the system¡­

    ¡°System, evolve [Boundless Spirit Tempering]!¡±

 Chapter 113: Transcendence

    Chapter 113: Transcendence

    Within one of therge stone rooms of the Area 52 Inheritance was a smooth-looking wooden sculpture that was green in color. If one had eyes that could perceive the movement of energy, one could see that a strong energy that was not inclined to any element except Wind was emanating from this sculpture. Not only that, one could also perceive that a boundless and vast source of energy resided within the depths of this sculpture, wanting to burst out in one go like a phoenix soaring to the skies.

    Of course, this sculpture was none other than Aurus in his form at the time he evolved to an S-grade, his supposed original form as an S-grade Inanimate. Because he was still not used to his body shape being somewhat humanoid, he always had his morphing skill active, in the form of his branch form in his C-grade to A-grade days.

    Nheless, thanks to the skill he received from the inheritance, he now had a reason as to why he had to be in his original form. To be honest, at the current level of the skill he received, which was X-grade Mortal level, if he were to fight the old him without receiving the skill, he would probably remain undefeated even after hundreds of rounds.

    Ding! Ding! Ding!

    After a certain span of time, multiple notification sounds resounded throughout Aurus¡¯ mind, prompting to open his sense of vision as he had a hunch as to what these notifications entailed.

    ¡°System, open the notification log.¡±

    Ding!

    Whoosh!

    Not long after hemanded, a holographic screen appeared in front of Aurus¡¯ field of vision, allowing him to skim through the notifications he received. A few seconds, the aura around Aurus, which was suppressed and solemn all this time, finally changed into an aura filled with expectation and excitement.

    ¡®[Boundless Spirit Tempering] has leveled up.¡¯

    ¡®[Boundless Spirit Tempering] has reached the MAX level.¡¯

    ¡®[Boundless Spirit Tempering] has met the necessary requirements and is ready to transition into a new level of power.¡¯

    ¡®[Boundless Spirit Tempering] has been exposed to great amounts of skill experience, allowing it to inprove itself and refine to be something better. Once the skill evolves, the skill will have a guaranteed chance of bing a Special grade skill.¡¯

    After reading through the notifications, Aurus could not contain his excitement and awe as he could not help but mutter, ¡°Finally, after months of being reincarnated as a stick in the world of Erudinia, I can finally say I have taken the first step towards Godhood.¡±

    ¡°I will finally have a Transcendent grade skill of my own.¡±

    Though he knew very well that he already had a Transcendent skill in his arsenal which he could use, he still wanted to ept the fact that the first Transcendent skill he received was a skill he grinded from its humble beginnings to where it was now.

    Just as the aura around him intensified towards a certain peak, it instantly deted as he could not help but wryly chuckle at himself.

    ¡°Then again, this is just a skill given to me by the inheritance. I¡¯m pretty sure my progress is going to be taken away once the first trial is over.¡±

    Letting out a sigh and clearing his mind afterwards, the aura around him returned to its previous state of expectation and excitement as he could not help but say, ¡°Then again, when¡¯s thest time I¡¯ve evolved a skill to the Transcendent grade in ISE?¡±

    ¡°Evolve [Boundless Spirit Tempering]!¡±

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    At the very instant Aurus was finishedmanding, something magical happened.

    Out of thin air, a mote of light gradually manifested on top of Aurus¡¯ body, a mote of light that, if one looked at it closely, it looked quite simr to the shape of Aurus¡¯ body but shrunken to an extremely miniscule size.

    This mote of light then started to hover higher and higher as a thin strand of light could be seen connecting the mote of light to Aurus¡¯ body. It flew upwards until it reached the ceiling of the stone room.

    And there it stayed for a bit.

    Before exploding into a great array of colors that enveloped the whole stone room. At first, Aurus was shocked as to what was happening since this was not the situation he would encounter when he would evolve a skill to Transcendent grade. But then, as he continued to think, Erudinia was not like ISE¡¯s Erudinia in the first ce. One was made out of 0s and 1s, but one was made by a god, a god that gave life and realism into it.

    Not only that, he did not even feel the skill dissipating from his memory or something as he could still see that the strand of light connecting him to the mote of light was not severed at all. A few secondster, he would find out the strand¡¯s purpose.

    At the time when the stone room was conpletely covered with a myriad amount of colors, the origin of these colors, the mote of light, started to absorb these colors through the strand of light that connected it to Aurus, creating a sort of tempest that originated from Aurus as the colors were gradually being absorbed by the mote of light.

    As time passed, Aurus could gradually see the improvement the mote of light was getting from the colors. The first improvement was that its size was bigger, multiple times bigger whenpared to its previous state. The second improvement to it was that the mote of light felt more lifelike in terms of its outer appearance. If one were to think that the previous mote of light had 80% of Aurus¡¯ features down, this current mote had 90% of it.

    Andst but not the least, the third improvement the mote of light had was that, at the instant the mote of light absorbed all of the colors, Aurus felt that his senses were clearer and sharper whenpared to before. Not only that, he also had a feeling that he was stronger than before, though he could not find out the reason why.

    It took a couple of minutes for the mote of light to absorb every color from the stone room before returning back into nothingness as Aurus heard the ever familiar notification sound from the system.

    Ding!

    ¡®[Boundless Spirit Tempering] has been evolved to [Essence Refinement of the Heaven¡¯s Spirit (Special)].¡¯

    As he read the name of the skill, he now had an idea as to why the skill went through such lengths to show its improvement. Maybe it wanted to show Aurus that the skill was connecting to the heavens as a way to show its power over Mortal grade skills?

    Anyway, with Aurus evolving [Boundless Spirit Tempering] to its Special grade Transcendent form, Aurus took the skill out of the Learning module before cing two skills he rarely used into the module.

    Ding! Ding!

    ¡®[Flux Armor Creation] has been ced into the module.¡¯

    ¡®[Flux Enchantment] has been ced into the module.¡¯

    Seeing that he chose the two skills he wanted to raise, Aurus said to himself, ¡°With me evolving the skill given by the inheritance to Special grade, it would be overkill to mutate it into a higher grade.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s only suitable for skills I can keep.¡±

    As for the reason why Aurus chose these two low-leveled skills to be raised in the Learning module, it was because Aurus realized that he did not grind out the levels and grades of his skills anymore. Though he was able to get a few levels for some of his skills here and there, it was unlike before where he spent around two weeks to raise multiple skills into a high grade.

    ¡°Before I evolve to X-grade, I hope I can raise all of my skills to the limit of Mortal grade.¡± Whilemitting this goal into memory, Aurusmanded the system to identify the newly evolved skill he received, wanting to know effects of a Transcendent grade skill.

    Ding!

    ________

    [Essence Refinement of the Heaven¡¯s Spirit] (Level 1/5)

    Grade: C (Transcendent)

    When one peers beyond the spirit, one eventually finds out the existence of essence, the intangible yet tangible energy that makes us, us. If one strengthens their spirit, then one strengthens their connection to the body, making the body exert more power. Therefore, if one strengthens their essence, which makes up the spirit, one strengthens the foundations of the spirit, which increases the limit as to how much power the body can exert depending on one specific value of the spirit.

    With this skill, one can refine one¡¯s essence through the help of the mysterious energy of the heavens, allowing one to be a cut above the rest.

    Note that only one¡¯s original form can handle this enhancement, any other form or morphed form will let the skill be forcefully disabled in order to not damage the form the being is currently under.

    > Increases the efficacy of soul-based techniques by 50%

    > Increases the base stats of the user by 50%

    ________

    ¡­

    Within the XXXX Continent, slightly far away from the Seraph Kingdom.

    Whoosh!

    Just like creating something out of nothing, two men appeared near the boundaries of a ce that seemed to exude extremely strong energy of the Wind element. Although they stood near the boundaries of this ce, their clothes still iled around as if there was a storm happening nearby.

    Of course, these two men were none other than Dane and Vanadir, with Dane finally letting out a sigh of relief as he could not help but mutter, ¡°We¡¯re finally here.¡±

    As for Vanadir, at the very instant he was able to gaze upon the ce in front of him, he could not help but tighten his grip on Magnus Tempestria as he said, ¡°We¡¯re finally at the Greater Tempest Cliff!¡±

    With his eyes lighting up akin to a me that soared above the skies, Vanadir looked at Dane and said, ¡°Hey Dane, let¡¯s enter! I want to try out the skills of this new sword! Not only that, I also want to enhance mybat power!¡±

    As for Dane, who heard the prince¡¯s words, he could not help but lightly smile as he snapped his fingers, creating a barrier that covered the both of them as he said, ¡°If that¡¯s what the Highness wishes, then let us head on our merry way.¡±

    ¡°Haha! That¡¯s what I¡¯m talking about!¡± Vanadir could not help but visibly shake with excitement as the two of them entered the Greater Tempest Cliff, finding a beast to test Magnus Tempestria on.

    While heading deeper into the cliff, Dane could not help but feel that the pulling feeling on the back of his head grew stronger. As a serious expression creeped up on his face, he asked himself, ¡°Did the Spiritas just¡­transition into an Animate? That quick?¡±

    ¡°I hope it¡¯s that and it¡¯s not the Spiritas going through a fortuitous encounter because no Inanimate can possibly have a soul that strong, one¡¯s vessel cannot handle it.¡±

    ¡°But if there was the slightest chance that the Spiritas could handle such soul strength then¡­¡±

    ¡°I have no possible excuse to shirk away from this desire. I must definitely get my hands on that Spiritas.¡±

 Chapter 114: Unforeseen

    Chapter 114: Unforeseen

    Within one of the stone rooms of the Area 52 Inheritance.

    ¡°Well then, this is definitely leagues beyond the previous version of the skill. If this was an extremely rare skill, then the difference might be more obvious.¡± After skimming through the description of the newly evolved skill, Aurus could not help but mutter and sigh in amazement as to how much the skill has improved.

    The previous version of the skill, [Boundless Spirit Tempering], at its max level, would only give a stat boost of 30% to Aurus¡¯ base stats. That¡¯s it.

    But now that Aurus has evolved it to [Essence Refinement] (shortened because who would want to read the full name many times), this stat boost was increased to 50 percent, and that boost was not even from the max level of the skill, allowing one to see the might of a Transcendent grade skill whenpared to a Mortal grade skill. Not only that, the skill also obtained another effect, which enhanced the efficacy of soul-based techniques by 50 percent.

    Aurus pondered about this effect for a short bit and wondered, ¡°Do I have any soul-based techniques on me?¡±

    He opened his skill list through the system and read through every skill he had, but s, he had no soul-based technique whatsoever. But with that came another question to Aurus¡¯ mind.

    ¡°Why do I feel like my mind is sharper and clearer than before I evolved the skill?¡±

    He pondered on this question for around a minute or so. After seeing that he was getting nowhere, he could not help but say, ¡°Bah, I¡¯ll find it out sooner orter. I must first focus on upgrading [Essence Refinement] as much as possible, as well as use the Learning module to level up the other low-leveled skills I have.¡±

    And that¡¯s what he did all throughout the remaining time of the first trial.

    Closing his sense of vision to enhance his perception and sensitivity towards the existence of the essence that made up his spirit, he then started to absorb energy from the surroundings in a unique way wherein the energy would pierce through the essence, expand towards the spirit, and explode towards the body.

    Although it was his first time levelling the newly evolved skill up, the proficiency of how he absorbed energy from the surroundings in this unique manner seemed like he has been practicing the technique for months already.

    Not only that, even the exterior appearance of Aurus changed after evolving the skill to Transcendent grade. When he was still levelling the skill while it was Mortal grade, rays of light that seemed like it came from the heavens would emit out of his body. This time, it was around the same category, but more profound.

    Rather than emitting light all throughout his body, the light instead coalesced on a few spots on his body, specifically, his head, where his throat would possibly lie, where his heart would possibly lie, and the four limbs on his sculpture form. And while absorbing energy from the surroundings, all of that energy would head towards the light on his head before making its way downwards, as if the light on the head was a dantian and the other lights were meridians, the energy he absorbed being qi.

    Then again, the closest thing to qi in the world of Erudinia was life energy that existed within the bodies of Animates, and it operated quite differently from qi¡­ doesn¡¯t say it¡¯s impossible though.

    ¡­

    Ding! Ding!

    ¡®[Flux Armor Creation] and [Flux Enchantment] has reached the MAX level.¡¯

    ¡®Both skills have met the necessary requirements and are ready to evolve.¡¯

    Hearing these notifications from the system, Aurus, who was levelling the trial¡¯s skill up, could not help but be surprised at the speed of maxing out low-leveled skills through the module.

    Splitting a small part of consciousness to pique his curiosity, Aurus was able to find out that skills within the Learning module would obtain 5 XP per minute at its current level, which meant that enhancing it would allow it to give more XP per minute.

    ¡°Hm¡­this would definitely be useful for those skills I have hard time raising,¡± Aurus muttered inwardly.

    ¡°Evolve both skills before removing them from the module.¡± After piquing his curiosity, Aurus, who had split a small part of his consciousness to stay alert for updates in the system, responded to the system¡¯s notification not long after.

    Ding! Ding! Ding!

    ¡®[Flux Armor Creation] has been evolved to [Better Flux Armor Creation].¡¯

    ¡®[Flux Enchantment] has been evolved to [Better Flux Enchantment.¡¯

    ¡®Both skills have been removed from the system¡¯s Learning module.¡¯

    After receiving a few more notifications from the system, Aurus stayed silent for a bit as the energy from the surroundings continued to head towards the multiple lights. He thenmanded the system a few secondster after making a decision in his mind.

    ¡°ce [Flux Sacrifice] and [Greater Illusion Resistance] into the Learning module.¡±

    Ding!

    ¡®Both skills have been ced into the Learning module.¡¯

    After hearing the notification from the system, Aurus then went back to putting his full consciousness towards the levelling of the skill given to him by the trial, passing through a few more grades as time passed.

    While evolving the skill to higher subgrades, Aurus noticed that the weird phenomenon that happened when he evolved the skill from Mortal to Transcendent grade did not repeat itself, but rather, evolved like normal in a sense.

    Of course, Aurus ced this matter in the back of his mind, continuing to grind as much as possible.

    ¡­

    ¡°The two hours are now over. The Trial of Comprehension is now over.¡± While being fully engrossed in levelling [Essence Refinement] to higher grades, Aurus heard the voice from before resounding throughout the stone room, prompting him to stop his grind.

    ¡°The inheritance shall now check the progress of the skill and will allocate rewards ording to the inheritor¡¯s effort.¡± As he heard these wordse from the disembodied voice of the inheritance, he could not help but be anxious towards the results. Will he get little rewards after expending so much effort in grinding?

    Of course, only the inheritance would tell.

    Time ticked as the voice remained silent. Seconds started to tick away before turning into minutes that ticked away. Thankfully, the inheritance only took around two to three minutes before arriving at a conclusion.

    ¡°The inheritance has seen that the inheritor has enhanced this C-grade Mortal skill into an S-grade Transcendent skill within the span of two hours. Not only that, the inheritor has also mutated the skill to Special grade, increasing the power of the skill.¡± Hearing the voice that resounded throughout the room, Aurus could not help but be proud of what he did.

    Though S-grade Transcendent level did not seem all that powerful, one would always remember the effects of another S-grade Transcendent skill, [Spirit Clone].

    ¡°Due to this being unforeseen, the inheritance has hastily made a decision to reward the inheritor with the skill it has expounded upon without reverting it back to its original level¡­¡± As the voice continued to talk, Aurus¡¯ mood turned better, his aura radiating sheer excitement. But as the voice continued to talk, Aurus could only stand in ce.

    ¡°¡­As well as allowing the skill to mutate to a higher grade. Not only that, the experience required to level the skill has eternally been halved until it reaches the peak grade it could possibly reach.¡±

    ¡­

    While Aurus receiving the fruits of hisbor from the inheritance, Herellia was still going through the Trial of the Sanguine Ruler, maintaining the same position she had all this time.

    ¡°Haah¡­haah¡­¡± At this moment, Herellia¡¯s body looked like a branch that was about to snap apart¡­a bleeding branch at that. With the red engravings on her body being broken, a viscous red fluid started to ooze out of the broken paths, making Herellia seem like a branch that was used for killing people.

    Nheless, the aura she emitted was vastly stronger whenpared to her previous aura before entering the inheritance.

    Ding!

    ¡®After absorbing the remnant blood aura from your enemies, the skill [Sanguine Aura (Lesser)] has transformed into the skill [Sanguine Aura (Greater ¨C Impure)].¡¯

    Hearing that the skill she obtained many battles ago had transformed into a stronger skill, Herellia extended the blood red tendril she used to fight outwards as shemanded, ¡°[Sanguine Art: Blood Rebirth].¡±

    Whoosh!

    In an instant, the blood red tendril turned 180 degrees to charge towards Herellia¡¯s body before enveloping it as a whole. Not long after, the blood red tendril started to radiate a red light as the red engravings on her body gradually fused up, repairing itself at a speed that was visible to the naked eye.

    A few secondster, the blood red tendril retracted itself to revealed a fully healed Herellia that was still covered in the viscous red fluid. Nheless, the viscous red fluid would not hinder her at all.

    ¡°I wonder how many more waves I would have to clear before ending this trial,¡± Herellia could not help but mutter to herself in annoyance as she had already faced against 20 waves of enemies from the start of the trial until now.

    And it seemed like there was no end.

    ¡°Candidate, it seemed that you have a will that is unwilling to give up and is yearning to the see everything to the bitter end,¡± the voice that talked to her before started to resound once more as Herellia kept her silence.

    ¡°Thankfully, a few waves remain before the first part of this trial is over. Once you clear through all of it, you shall obtain the [Condensed Sanguine Aura], allowing you to fight against enemies of a higher level without being at a disadvantage, that is not to say that you¡¯re not already strong. Making it this far is already a sign of your strength.¡±

    ¡°I wish you the best of luck and may the blood rain down from above.¡±

    After that, the voice did not resound anymore, leaving Herellia all alone as she waited for the enemies to manifest.

    It was at this time that a certain being popped up in her mind, the one being that allowed her to have the chance to go through this trial. If he was not used as an excuse, she would have not been able to enter the trial in the first ce.

    Chuckling in a mocking manner, Herellia could not help but say, ¡°I feel like I¡¯ve done something wrong. But I can¡¯t turn back, now can I?¡±

    ¡°I wonder how Aurus is doing?¡±

    ¡°Knowing him very well, I¡¯m sure he¡¯s zing through the inheritance.¡±

    ¡°As for me though¡­hehe¡­¡±

    ¡°I just might die from this.¡±

 Chapter 115: An Attempt

    Chapter 115: An Attempt

    Within one of the stone rooms of the Area 52 Inheritance, Aurus was listening to the disembodied voice of the inheritance as it announced Aurus¡¯ rewards after clearing the first trial.

    ¡®I hope I get to keep the skill I grinded,¡¯ Aurus could not help but think to himself. Of course, who would have no thoughts of keeping a skill they grinded so hard for? And so, Aurus listened to the first statement of the disembodied voice, changing the anxious and hopeful aura around him into that of happiness and excitement.

    ¡°Due to the extent of the skill¡¯s level of expounding being unforeseen, the inheritance has hastily made a decision to reward the inheritor with the skill it has expounded upon without reverting it back to its original level¡­¡± the disembodied voice stated.

    ¡°Let¡¯s goooooo!!!¡± Aurus screamed in an ecstatic manner as energy seemed to fill his body, prompting him to fly around for a bit before hearing the disembodied voice once more. Hearing the disembodied voice speak again, Aurus stopped flying and waited for the voice to say its words, only to be shocked by the next statement.

    ¡°¡­As well as allowing the skill to mutate to a higher grade. Not only that, the experience required to level the skill has eternally been halved until it reaches the peak grade it could possibly reach,¡± the disembodied voice talked once more.

    It took Aurus half a minute toe back to his senses from the intense shock he got from the voice¡¯s statement. The first few words that came out of his mouth were, ¡°E-eternally h-h-halved¡­?¡±

    ¡°Did the inheritance just say the experience needed to level the skill I grinded is¡­eternally halved?¡± He could not help but repeat the question to himself as he opened up the skill¡¯s details.

    Ding!

    ________

    [Ninth Purity Heavenbinding Essence Transformation] (Level 1/40)

    Grade: S (Transcendent)

    When one peers beyond the spirit, one eventually finds out the existence of essence, the intangible yet tangible energy that makes us, us. If one strengthens their spirit, then one strengthens their connection to the body, making the body exert more power. Therefore, if one strengthens their essence, which makes up the spirit, one strengthens the foundations of the spirit, which increases the limit as to how much power the body can exert depending on one specific value of the spirit.

    With the essence of the user of the skill being incredibly pure and calm, the user can use the power from the Ninth Heaven to bind and purify the essence into a more condensed and cleansed form that would allow a small smidget of the user¡¯s spirit to control a great amount of external power.

    Thanks to heavenly methods, the needed time to connect with andprehend the Ninth Heaven¡¯s energy has been halved.

    > Increases the efficacy of soul-based techniques by 150%

    > Increases the base stats of the user by 120%

    > Experience needed to level the skill up has been halved

    ________

    Seeing the words on the description screen of the skill, Aurus¡¯ shock was gradually reced with sheer happiness as he flew erratically once more with glee. ¡°Hahahaha! I¡¯m going to easily obtain a Divine level skill before reaching the peak of Inanimate!¡±

    To a normal being, may it be Animate or Inanimate, a peak Mortal skill is enough to make them believe that the user is a god in a mortal¡¯s body. Once the user uses a Transcendent skill, it¡¯s enough to instill fear and worship into those who see it. As for Divine level skills¡­

    The sheer power and range of such a skill would basically make them vegetables from the immense shock, horror, fear and reverence they felt from the skill alone¡­before they get wiped into ashes, of course.

    Just as he was about to fly a bit more, an immense pressure seemed to pull him down towards the ground as the disembodied voice resounded once more throughout the room.

    ¡°Inheritor, you have 10 minutes to prepare before the second trial, the Trial of Logic.¡±

    ¡°Please prepare extremely well as it is easy to fail this trial from the first move alone.¡±

    Hearing these words of caution from the inheritance, Aurus could not help but subconsciously change his aura as he muttered in a serious tone, ¡°Well then. The inheritance has already given me a hint from those words of caution alone.¡±

    ¡°I wonder if the hypothesis I make would turn out correct before the trial starts.¡±

    ¡­

    XXXX Continent, Greater Tempest Cliff.

    Roarrrr!!!

    A harsh and loud growl could be hearding from the beast that stood in front of the two people before it. Since the beast was around 5 meters tall, from height alone, it would seem that the two people would be at a disadvantage.

    But that was not the case.

    ¡°Your Highness, we finally found a Grand Tempest Tiger that would be suitable for testing the limits of the de. Would Your Highness want me to bind the beast in ce?¡± One of the two people, a man in a ck robe with ck-rimmed sses, asked.

    As for the other one, he unsheathed the de by his side, revealing the beautifully crafted de that glistened under the rays of the sun, revealing the green runes that emitted intense Wind energy. Licking his lips with a grin on his face, he extended his left hand to ce it in front of the other person and say, ¡°Keep an eye out for me for now. Once you see me in grave danger, that¡¯s the time to move.¡±

    ¡°Alright, Your Highness.¡± The ck robed man bowed towards the other man before levitating a few tens of meters above the ground, allowing him to look out for the other man without worry.

    Of course, if one did not know them by now, these two are Dane and Vanadir.

    Roarrrrrr!!!

    The beast could not help but roar once again as it noticed that the two people in front of it did not seem to fear it at all. It seemed like¡­to them, it was not even something unbeatable?

    Coming to this conclusion, the beast became filled with rage as a red wind started to circle around its body, giving off a pressure that was equivalent to a small-scale typhoon.

    But for Vanadir, who was going to fight against the beast, this pressure was useless for he¡­

    ¡­was a Windwalker.

    Whoosh!

    With arge clump of Wind energy particles coalescing towards Vanadir¡¯s feet, Vanadir was able to dash through the red wind, even dodging the red wind that was aimed for him along the way. This resulted in him unscathed while the beast became shocked from Vanadir¡¯s prowess in front of it.

    Before it could make its next move towards Vanadir, Vanadir started to move left and right multiple times as he turned into a blur in the beast¡¯s vision before¡­disappearing from the beast¡¯s sightpletely.

    Surprised, the beast started looking at all directions before hearing a whistle from up above its own head. Without hesitation, the beast looked up, revealing a gradually descending Vanadir with a grin on its face, holding Magnus Tempestria with two hands, aiming to stab the beast in one go.

    ¡°Hehe. I knew you were going to look up,¡± Vanadir muttered to himself. In an instant, the de started to glow a bright green as a great amount of Wind energy particles started to circle around the de before turning into two ws that resembled that of a Wind Dragon.

    ¡°[Wind Dragon¡¯s Four Forms]¡­¡±

    As he was midway into casting his spell, his speed of descent elerated by a great margin as a few meters was crossed in a matter of an instant, reducing the gap between the tip of the de and the beast¡¯s head to a few decimeters.

    ¡°[Wind Dragon¡¯s Fury]!¡±

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    At the instant the tip of the de pierced through the epidermalyer of the beast¡¯s skin, the two ws made out of Wind energy particles wed into the skull of the beast, allowing the de to go in further as the beast¡¯s brain was turned into mush along the way.

    Thud!

    With no brain controlling the beast¡¯s body, the beast¡¯s body turned limp as it fell to the ground with a thud as Vanadir maneuvered his body tond a few meters away from the beast¡¯s body, allowing him to look at his kill with a confident smile on his face.

    ¡°Woo! That feels exhilirating!¡± Vanadir could not help but scream with joy as he looked at the de he held with his right hand. He could not help but close his eyes and remember the sensation he felt from easily killing a beast of that level.

    While remembering the sensation, a few motes of green light manifested from the beast¡¯s body before heading towards Vanadir¡¯s body, being absorbed in an instant as the aura surrounding him gradually intensified in power.

    It took a few minutes for Vanadir to open his eyes before looking up to Dane, who was still floating in the air, with a serious expression and say, ¡°Let¡¯s go onto the next beast. I feel like something will happen on this adventure.¡±

    ¡°If that¡¯s what the Highness wishes,¡± Dane replied with slight indifference as he maintained a distance of a few meters behind Vanadir while still floating at a height of tens of meters.

    Before the two of them could start walking towards another beast, Dane instantly felt a malicious presence within a hundred meters around both of them, prompting him to shout out, ¡°Your Highness, watch ou¡ª¡±

    But his shout was cut short.

    Shinnggg!

    In an instant, the sound of a de cutting something was heard near Vanadir, making Dane¡¯s eyes dte as he gradually turned his head to look towards Vanadir¡¯s direction¡­only to sigh with relief not long after.

    With a single nce, Dane was able to see that two des collided with one another in a perpendicr manner, with one de trembling quite a bit. This de was Magnus Tempestria, Vanadir¡¯s de.

    Maintaining hisposure after the shock that was the de aimed to end his life, Vanadir looked at the man covered in ck who wielded the de colliding against his. ¡°It seems an assassin has been caught. A Rank 5 Void Assassin at that.¡±

    Not long after, the assassin slightly chuckled at Vanadir¡¯s words as it replied with a hoarse tone. ¡°It seems I have failed my mission.¡±

    Whoosh!

    In an instant, the weight behind the assassin¡¯s de was gone, making Vanadir lean a bit as he regained his bnce not long after, making sure to grip onto his de tightly.

    Looking around for a bit, Vanadir let out a sigh afterwards before tensing up once more as he heard the hoarse voice of the assassin resound from afar.

    ¡°Mark my words Ninth Prince, before the tournament for the throne, you will undoubtedly die.¡±

    ¡°This is a fact. And I¡­¡±

    ¡°¡­Will make it happen.¡±

 Chapter 116: Logic

    Chapter 116: Logic

    XXXX Continent, Area 52 Inheritance.

    10 minutes have already passed since the disembodied voice told Aurus about preparing for the second trial of the three trial inheritance, which focused on logic.

    ¡°The 10 minutes of preparation are now over. The Trial of Logic shall now start.¡± At the very instant the 10 minutes were up, the disembodied voice resounded throughout therge stone room, prompting Aurus to open his sense of vision that was closed all this time.

    ¡°Well then, I wonder if my hypothesis is correct this time,¡± Aurus muttered to himself. ¡°I don¡¯t know why but it seems that it is easier for me to think up of abstract ideas than before.¡±

    At the start of the 10 minutes, Aurus started thinking up of ways to clear the second trial, his mind instantly bombarding him with tons and tons of information which he thought did not exist in his mind in the first ce. The influx of information surprised Aurus quite a bit, but he was able to remain calm and use it to his advantage, creating multiple conclusions around halfway before deducing all of it into one conclusion.

    Now this influx of information was brought about by the enhancement in his soul through the Soul Sigils, which was boosted once more by the [Essence Refinement] skill, which is now at the S-Transcendent grade. Of course, Aurus did not know this as he did not expect the skill to enhance the effects of the Soul Sigils. He instead took this influx of information as a sort of temporary gift from the inheritance as he cleared the trials.

    If only he knew.

    As he opened his sense of vision, therge stone room, whose walls were visible to Aurus all this time, started to dim and be pitch ck, as if his sense of vision was being limited. This ck fog also started to expand towards Aurus, limiting his vision even more.

    Yet rather than panicking, Aurus maintained his calm as hemanded the system, ¡°System, change my mode of vision to that where the ck fog does not hamper me in viewing the surroundings.¡±

    Ding!

    ¡®Vision mode change in process¡­¡¯

    Whoosh!

    In an instant, a huge part of his field of vision cleared up thanks to the [Soul Perception] skill he had, which was now at its A-grade version, giving him arger field of vision rather than its C-grade version.

    As the fog around him gradually cleared up to the skill¡¯s limit, Aurus became shocked as he noticed that the floor became partitioned, turning into multiple blocks of stone with some sort of viscous fluid flowing between the cracks.

    This transformation started at the corners of the stone room before making its way towards the center, the final block being made underneath where Aurus was.

    Once the transformation was finished, the disembodied voice from the inheritance resounded once more to tell Aurus about the mechanics of the second trial.

    ¡°The second trial is also known as the Trial of Logic. This trial shall test whether the inheritor can listen to the words ofmand and deduce the meaning behind those words, creating the decision that would be the difference between life or death.¡±

    ¡°The inheritor will have eight directions to move towards, only a quaint few will lead the inheritor towards the clearance of the trial.¡±

    After hearing the mechanics of the second trial, Aurus could not help but light up as his aura tuened slightly cheerful. ¡°To think that my hypothesis this time was correct¡­ somewhat.¡±

    ¡°My hypothesis was something along the lines of being a piece on a chessboard, where one decision of mine will be the difference between life or death.¡±

    ¡°I guess this is close?¡± Aurus could not help but chuckle as the disembodied voice resounded once more.

    ¡°Now let the Trial of Logic¡­¡±

    ¡°Begin.¡±

    Whoosh!

    In an instant, the eight blocks surrounding the block where he was standing in glowed a faint red as a voice resounded from the inheritance, exuding off a hint of vitality and wisdom as it said, ¡°The first move in this trial shall decide whether you can continue to traverse the trial, or leave without any reward.¡±

    ¡°Listen to my words, as I¡¯ll only say it once,¡± the voice stated, giving Aurus no time to voice out his opinion. Well¡­ it¡¯s not like he could voice it anyway.

    ¡°You are themander of a centurion, and your centurion is a troop hidden by your army from its intelligence to change the tides to your army¡¯s advantage.¡±

    ¡°You received a report from your army¡¯s intelligence that the enemy army will attack you from the front, but you had a hunch that it was a diversion tactic by the enemy army, leading you to fall back. If you followed the army¡¯s report and fell back, you might be attacked by the enemy army if the diversion tactic was true. But if you didn¡¯t follow the army¡¯s report and moved forward, you might be attacked as well if the diversion tactic was not true and the enemy army was truly moving from the front.¡±

    ¡°As themander, what move shall you take?¡±

    At the very instant the voice was finished exning the situation to Aurus, he was instantly at a loss for words as he did not know whether to follow the situation¡¯s words or follow his own instinct.

    ¡°What do I do? What do I do? If I fail on the first move, my eligibility for the third trial will be gone!¡± Aurus could not help but panic as he knew that failing the inheritance would lose him the chance of obtaining the key of the inheritance.

    Oh, and the Comprehension Leaf as well.

    It took Aurus a solid minute to calm his mind down and think things through one more time.

    ¡°This is the Trial of Logic, in other words, abstract reasoning. Is it abstract reasoning? I don¡¯t know, but anyways, this is a test of the mind.¡±

    ¡°As the voice said, you have to deduce the right decision that lied underneath the words said.¡±

    ¡°Think Aurus. Think.¡± While talking to himself, Aurus closed off his sense of vision in order to tap into the influx of information he used to create hypotheses before the second trial started. After 30 seconds, Aurus opened his field of vision once more before flying towards the block of stone on his left.

    Crack! Crack! Crack!

    At the very moment Aurusnded on the block of stone to his left, all the remaining blocks cracked and broke down as they were absorbed by the viscous fluid that flowed through the gaps not long after.

    Ding!

    Not long after that, he heard a chime sound that was akin to a gameshow¡¯s sound that yed whenever the contestant was correct.

    ¡°Good job, inheritor. Your first move was correct,¡± the voice from before congratted Aurus. ¡°By moving through the sides, you avoided the attack from the back, as well as the attack from the front. Of course, in reality, that would not be the case as war tactics go far beyond than that.¡±

    ¡°There are only 9 moves remaining before you sessfullyplete the trial.¡±

    ¡°Let us now start your second move.¡±

    ¡­

    On another stone room within the Area 52 Inheritance, a branch covered in red fluid was gasping for air through its body as its surroundings was also covered in red fluid.

    Not long after, a voice resounded throughout the bloody stone room, alerting the branch that was tired from fighting.

    ¡°Ruler candidate, it seems that you have sessfully conjured the [Condensed Sanguine Aura]. Good job on that, I truly mean it. But for now, your trial ends here.¡±

    The branch, who was still gasping for air, could not help but be shocked as it screamed out, ¡°What? Why? Is this truly the end of the trial? Have I reached a dead end?!¡±

    ¡°This is unfair!¡± the branch could not help but snap andin as the memories of clearing 25 waves of enemies in order to enhance a single skill surfaced in its mind.

    Of course, this branch was none other than Herellia.

    As if the trial was talking to her, it replied, ¡°Of course, that does not mean that your trial is over. To be honest, it is far from over. Obtaining the [Condensed Sanguine Aura] is only enough for you to be considered a Sanguine Ruler candidate. There are still many ranks before bing a True Sanguine Ruler.¡±

    ¡°Sanguine Being, Sanguine Elite, Sanguine Count, Sanguine Duke, Sanguine Marquis, Sanguine Prince, Sanguine Lord, then Sanguine Ruler.¡±

    ¡°Those are the remaining ranks you have to trek before bing a bona fide Sanguine Ruler.¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t think that I am barring you from continuing the trial as your body would not handle the next trials at that state.¡± As if the trial could see Herellia¡¯s current state, it replied with this statement, making Herellia¡¯s voices ofint die down.

    ¡°But that does not mean you would be leaving the trial without a reward for your hard work.¡±

    Ding!

    Hearing a notification sound from the system, Herellia hastily opened up her notification log to see a new skill being obtained from the trial.

    ¡®You have obtained the skill [Sanguine Ruler Body ¡ª Basics].¡¯

    As if the trial was reading her mind, it continued, ¡°This technique will allow you tost longer in battle, as well as give you the power to absorb vitality from enemies, but only by a little amount. By bing a True Sanguine Ruler will you truly absorb vitality from enemies to their death.¡±

    Whoosh!

    In an instant, a bronze key started to hover above Herellia¡¯s body, causing her to be slightly startled as she did not expect for the inheritance key to manifest at this time. But when she saw the transformation the key underwent, she then understood.

    The inheritance key, which was bronze, instantly turned into a crimson color as the head became more intricate, revealing a design that was simr to design from the Gothic era. The tooths of the key also changed a bit, bing more de like rather than key like.

    The inheritance key then disappeared afterwards as the voice resounded again.

    ¡°I have changed your inheritance key to that of the Blood Ruler key. If youe back here, you will instantlye back to this trial. I hope you master the skill I gave you to at least the Adept level.¡±

    ¡°For now, this is farewell.¡±

    ¡°Strive hard, future Blood Ruler.¡±

    Whoosh!

    And just like that, Herellia, who had joined Aurus in entering the inheritance, was finally out.

 Chapter 117: Preparation

    Chapter 117: Preparation

    Just as Aurus was embarking on the second trial of his inheritance, a white silhouette could be seen zooming through the vast and dark space known as the Celestial ne.

    This white silhouette had features that could easily attribute it, or in this case her, as a personage of high standing and influence. What was the reason for this basis? Beauty.

    This white silhouette had a beauty that could easily make whole gctic civilizations fight in order to get her agreement to marriage. If it was not for the fact that her body structure was akin to that of a young teenager, that might¡¯ve happened.

    Or it could have¡­due to the fact that this silhouette was blessed with a bosom so bountiful that it would not lose out to the legendary temptresses and subi of history.

    This white silhouette was none other than Kurohana¡­well, Kurohana¡¯s divine clone that had 90 percent of her maximum power, Shirohana. Since Shirohana was Kurohana¡¯s divine clone, it was a matter of fact that Shirohana would look a lot like Kurohana. Well¡­from the word ¡®clone¡¯ alone, don¡¯t you think it would be obvious by now?

    Anyways, Shirohana was tasked by Kurohana to head towards the Hall of Greater Divinity to help Nix in eradicating the two Depraved Deities and preventing other Primordial Sins from disturbing the peace in the Celestial ne.

    It took Shirohana a hour and a half to reach the Hall of Greater Divinity, stemming from the fact that she did not have 100 percent of Kurohana¡¯s power.

    Shended near the entrance of the hall and looked around for a bit with an indifferent gaze. She then closed her eyes for a bit and rummaged through Kurohana¡¯s memories to make sure she was in the right ce. After making sure, she opened her eyes and walked inside without caring about the gazes of others.

    ¡­

    While Shirohana was entering the hall, a few gods could not help but take notice of Shirohana¡¯s silhouette and mistake for Kurohana¡¯s as they looked the same, their aura was the same, how could they not be the same? Of course, they did not know that the Kurohana in front of them was a divine clone.

    Nheless, some small conversations started to pop up here and there regarding Shirohana, especially those gods who were slightly lecherous.

    ¡°Man, whenever I see Kurohana, I just want to do things that I wouldn¡¯t normally do, you know?¡± A male god on one side of the hall could not help but look at the genderless god beside him as he said with a slight smirk.

    ¡°I don¡¯t have the lust you have, Cerephor, but I do see why you want to do things that you don¡¯t normally do,¡± the genderless god answered the male god¡¯s, Cerephor¡¯s, question. It then let out a soft sigh before saying, ¡°I have this strong urge to protect her just from looking at her.¡±

    On another part of the hall, a goddess could not help but look at Shirohana with slight shock and mutter, ¡°I¡¯m so jealous! How does Kurohana maintain her beauty so well?! I¡¯ve tried everything to maintain my beauty but it still seems to fade away!¡± She then looked at the other goddess beside her and ask, ¡°What beauty secrets do you think she has?¡±

    The other goddess could not help but ponder for a bit before replying, ¡°To be honest, I don¡¯t know as well. She just looks so perfect but¡­ don¡¯t you think her aura has gotten weaker?¡±

    Since the other goddess was not purposely softening her voice, all of the other gods and goddesses in the hall could hear what she said and not help but examine Shirohana closer, only to exim in disbelief a few secondster.

    ¡°What¡­ you¡¯re right! Her aura did be weaker!¡±

    ¡°I wonder what happened to her in order for that to happen¡­¡±

    ¡°If I fought against her¡­do you think I¡¯d win?¡±

    Before more chatter about Kurohana¡¯s weakening continued, a ck mass manifested just a few meters in front of Shirohana, instantly silencing the other gods who were gossiping about Kurohana¡¯s rumoured weakening¡­which was not true at all.

    With the ck mass manifesting in front of Shirohana, Shirohana stopped in her tracks and looked at the ck mass as it dissipated, revealing a goddess that seemed to emanate an intense aura of darkness about her.

    This goddess was none other than Nix, the hallmaster of the Hall of Greater Divinity.

    Nix looked at the surroundings before looking at Shirohana, who was a few meters away from her. She then looked at Shirohana intently as she sent a message through energy.

    ¡°So¡­have you decided to help me in fighting against the demons?¡±

    Receiving a message from nowhere all of a sudden slightly surprised Shirohana, but she was able to deduce where it came from, prompting her to send an energy message back to Nix.

    ¡°I am a divine clone of Kurohana, Miss Nix. You can call me Shirohana. I was tasked by her to help you fight against the demons.¡±

    Nix was not surprised at Shirohana¡¯s reply at all, letting out a soft sigh as she muttered, ¡°That weapon she¡¯s crafting seems to be quite important, huh.¡±

    ¡°Alright, follow me to my office,¡± Nix then said to Shirohana out loud before turning around. With no other choice, Shirohana followed behind her, leaving many gods in the hall extremely confused.

    So¡­the hallmaster and Kurohana stared at each other for a bit before heading to her room? Doesn¡¯t that seem¡­off?

    Then again, Nix and Shirohana could care less about the other gods¡¯ minds as they entered Nix¡¯s room a few minutester.

    Shirohana grabbed a chair and ced it closer to Nix¡¯s desk and sat opposite her. As for Nix, she sat on the chair behind her desk and waited for Shirohana to befortable before starting to talk with her.

    ¡°So, to start off this n of killing these two Depraved Deities, could you fill me in on Hinari and Hodazuka¡¯s origins?¡± Nix looked at Shirohana and asked. She then added, ¡°I¡¯m pretty sure you asked Chad beforeing back here to finish your mission.¡±

    Shirohana rummaged through Kurohana¡¯s memories for a bit before responding, ¡°ording to Chad, Miss Nix¡ª¡±

    While Shirohana was talking, Nix interrupted with a, ¡°Just Nix is fine with me,¡± causing Shirohana to stop in her tracks and start all over again.

    ¡°So ording to Chad, Nix, Hinari and Hodazuka were both intelligent beings born in the named Earth. Hodazuka was born without powerd while Hinari was born as a weather maiden, giving her slight control over the weather. They grew up to be bestfriends and eventually grew to be inseparable from one another. One day, a typhoon that could wipe out their whole civilization wasing close, prompting many people to find Hinari and ask her to sacrifice her body for the greater good of their civilization.¡±

    She then took a deep breath before continuing. ¡°Of course, Hodazuka was infuriated at the sheer fact that the people thought of her as a tool and out of nowhere, just like some sort of miracle, at that bout of anger, Hodazuka was able toprehend the Theory of Intense mes, allowing him to use this newfound power to destroy the typhoon into smithereens.¡±

    ¡°After that, the people did not bother the two anymore and allowed them to live in peace, with Hinariprehending the Theory of Unyielding Frost to bepatible with Hodazuka.¡±

    ¡°They then cultivated their newfound powers to the Lesser Law level, bing Lesser Gods themselves. Other than that, they did not do anything malicious at all, in fact, they were extremely kind before being influenced by the Primordial Sins.¡±

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡± Nix could not help but rub her fingers under her chin as she pondered. ¡°Were there any other people in the thatprehended a Theory as well? Or a Conjecture at the very least?¡±

    Rummaging through Kurohana¡¯s memories, Shirohana shook her head and replied, ¡°None. Only the two of themprehended a Theory in that.¡±

    ¡°Truly odd,¡± Nix could not help but say. ¡°Anyways, let¡¯s not think more about that, but instead, what level do you think is the Primordial Sin at when it influenced Hinari and Hodazuka?¡±

    ¡°No, wait. Before that, do you still remember the levels of power in terms ofprehendingws?¡±

    Shirohana rummaged through Kurohana¡¯s memories once more before saying, ¡°Thankfully, Kurohana knew it quite well. Conjecture, Theory, Principle, Greater Principle, Evesting Principle, Lesser Law, Greater Law, Immortal Verdict, Transcendent Canon, then Primordial Decree right?¡±

    ¡°That ispletely correct.¡± Nix nodded. ¡°Of course, we both know that the levels of power of Primordial Sins are equal to those levels. Now it is a matter of finding out whether the Primordial Sin is Lesser Law or Greater Law level.¡±

    ¡°And that¡¯s where our n starts.¡± At this moment, Nix¡¯s expression turned serious before continuing to talk to Shirohana. ¡°I need to fight against Hinari and Hodazuka and use the Sin Detection Spell to find out the power of the Primordial Sin. Are you okay with that?¡±

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡± This time, rather than being subservient, Shirohana pondered on the request for a bit before closing her eyes. Opening them a few secondster, she responded with, ¡°ording to Kurohana, as long as I¡¯m equipped with a weapon and protective gear, I can go and do that Nix.¡±

    ¡°Why would I not give you equipment?¡± Seeing that the condition was quite normal, Nix slightly chuckled. ¡°Alright then, let¡¯s go to Misha¡¯s ce and secure ourselves some demon fighting equipment.¡±

    After that, they both stood up and disappeared from Nix¡¯s room without a trace, heading towards the ce where Misha, someone who Nix knew, was.

    ¡­

    In another part of the Celestial ne was an ind filled to the brim with flora. Tons and tons of flora.

    In the middle of this flora-filled ind was a pagoda that was also covered in the same flora that covered the ind. Inside this pagoda was a goddess that had a beauty thatcked a little bit whenpared to Kurohana¡¯s, but whenpared to the other goddesses, she was still one of the most beautiful.

    She was sitting on a chair made out of blood red tendrils as she looked at the floating orb in front of her, closely examining a branch that had red engravings all over it.

    This goddess was none other than Familia, the goddess that looked over Herellia, which was the branch within the floating orb she was looking at.

    At the current moment, Familia was looking at Herellia through the orb and noticed that she obtained a special trial that resonated a lot with her, making Familia very happy.

    But as she continued to look through and see Herellia¡¯s progress through the special trial, Familia noticed that something was off, causing her to frown.

    As she continued to examine, she noticed that a faint trace of a foreign aura entered Herellia¡¯s body and tried to remove her own aura from Herellia, prompting her to wipe out this foreign aura.

    This continued on and on as more and more of the foreign aura tried to infiltrate Herellia¡¯s body as Familia was trying to fight against that.

    Thankfully, this ended as Herellia finished the trial, prompting a huge influx of foreign aura to enter Herellia¡¯s body, only for it to be repelled by Familia, albeit with a lot of effort.

    With her gasping for her breath, Familia tried to examine the foreign aura that wanted to infiltrate Herellia¡¯s body and noticed that there was a small hint of divinity in it, making her stand up.

    She then used the blood red tendrils, that acted as her chair, to create a clone of herself that would continue to imbue Herellia with godly luck.

    After that, she then went off towards a certain direction and disappeared from her pagoda in an instant as she muttered, ¡°Guess I¡¯m gonna have to stab a bitch sometime soon.¡±

 Chapter 118: Final Move

    Chapter 118: Final Move

    Erudinia, XXXX Continent [1], near one of the towns owned by the Animates.

    Whoosh!

    Within an abandoned mineshaft, a silhouette manifested from there, radiating an aura of blood as its body was covered in red engravings that looked like blood, entuating the aura even further. The silhouette looked around and noticed the gray magic circle behind it, making it sigh not long after. ¡°Haah¡­my trial is definitely over by now.¡±

    This silhouette was none other than Herellia, who wasmenting over the fact that her special trial had already finished. Of course, she knew that the being who presided over her trial stopped the trial midway as she was not ready for it.

    Then again, would Herellia think from the presider¡¯s perspective? Of course not. She just wanted to grow stronger.

    She knew very well that she could not enter the inheritance at this very moment because she could still vividly remenber the words given to her by the presider. As if she was defeated, she gradually turned around opposite the magic circle and muttered, ¡°I have to master the two skills given to me to have a chance to enter the path of bing a Sanguine Ruler.¡±

    ¡°But Aurus is still inside the inheritance.¡± Herellia turned around to face the magic circle and pondered for a bit. ¡°As the leader of the alliance, I can¡¯t really stay far from the alliance for too long, lest something bad happens.¡±

    ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll leave a message for Aurus.¡± After a while, Herellia made up her mind as SP started to circte through her red engravings, creating a magic circle in her mind that could store her messages.

    After a few seconds, a red magic circle out of her SP gradually started to take shape, radiating an aura that could easily catch the attention of any Inanimate even when they¡¯re not looking at it.

    Making a few tweaks here and there, Herellia then ced the magic circle on the ground near the grey magic circle that served as the entrance, before putting her messages on it.

    After putting her messages into it, she casted a barrier spell around the circle, giving it the ability to withstand attacks at a power level of an X-grade Inanimate. Of course, it would be extremely rare for such a being to enter an abandoned mineshaft, hence Herellia did not have to worry.

    ¡°Well then. Aurus, it seems I have to leave first.¡± After muttering that in her mind, Herellia started to hover off the ground, morphing her body into an inconspicuous pebble in the process. She then zoomed out of the abandoned mineshaft, heading back to the Tempest Branch Alliance with the resolve to master both skills, as well as the feeling of something being off.

    ¡­.

    XXXX Continent, Tempest Cliff.

    Within the Tempest Cliff, there existed a crudely made hut out of stone wherein a being lived inside it. The being that lived inside it was not any ordinary Animate¡­as it was a wolf that lived inside it.

    It was also no ordinary wolf for that matter. This wolf actually came from a huge piece of stone, gaining sentience in order to transition into a living form. Not only that, this wolf was also able to start its path of power and transition to a Rank 1 ss, the Tempest Wolf.

    This wolf was none other than Chonk, one of the four great entities that governed over Tempest Cliff beside the three Inanimate alliances.

    Currently, he was waiting for a being he knew very much toe into his hut. In the meantime, he viewed the entirety of Tempest Cliff through floating orbs imbued with energy, which he made when he first transitioned into his Animate form, using it to pass the time.

    ¡°Hoh?¡± While looking at the floating orbs that acted as his eyes, Chonk could not help but raise his wolf eyebrow as he noticed a silhouette moving quickly through the cliff¡¯s terrain. Once he focused on the silhouette, he noticed the red engravings covering its body, making him click his tongue as he frowned.

    ¡°It¡¯s the leader of the Tempest Branch Alliance,¡± Chonk muttered to himself with a sigh. ¡°I did receive news that the leader of the Tempest Branch Alliance went away and I would use that time tomence my ns but¡­haah.¡±

    ¡°Who knew that she would be away for such a short time?¡± Chonk could not help butment. Whilementing to himself, a breeze infused with energy started to circte throughout the whole hut, with it originating from the entrance of the hut.

    Sensing this breeze, Chonk perked up his ears and wagged his tail slightly before turning around to look at a modestly sized branch that radiated an aura of pure energy. Of course, this branch was none other than Horell.

    ¡°You¡¯re quite fast, Horell. Making your way here within the span of a few hours,¡± Chonkmented on Horell¡¯s obedience, seemingly satisfied.

    ¡°Of course, how could I defy the Master¡¯smands?¡± A great contrast to his calm yet friendly disposition in the Tempest Branch Alliance, Horell responded with politeness, as if he was a servant to Chonk.

    But he was indeed his servant, or ve to be more exact.

    As to how Horell be Chonk¡¯s ve, that would be a story saved forter.

    ¡°So Horell, what do you think about the n I sent you?¡± After letting Horelle into his hut, Chonk lied down on the floor near the floating orbs and asked for Horell¡¯s opinion.

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡± Horell rummaged through his memories and recalled Chonk¡¯s ns, pondering for a bit before replying, ¡°Do you really want to target the Tempest Branch Alliance first, Master? You do know how strong they are, right?¡±

    ¡°Of course I know,¡± Chonk replied. ¡°I was actually going to attack them while the leader of their alliance was away, too bad she came back early. We¡¯ll change our target to another alliance. Who do you think we should target, Blossom Breeze or Verdant Nut?¡±

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡± Although Horell was somewhat shocked to hear Herellia leaving the alliance for a bit, he could not show this emotion at all as he pondered on which one of the two alliances they should target first. To be honest, Horell was feeling conflicted as he had heartfelt feelings for the Tempest Branch Alliance, but had to leave due to Chonk¡¯smands.

    The onlypromise in his mind he could make was just to dy the Tempest Branch¡¯s demise, allowing them to hopefully fight back against Chonk.

    ¡°I think Verdant Nut Alliance would be a suitable first target. Blossom Breeze specializes in illusions, which we are not prepared for as of yet.¡± After a minute or so, Horell finally replied to Chonk¡¯s question.

    ¡°Verdant Nut Alliance it is then.¡± Seeing that Horell could actually make a decision based on their current power, Chonk could not help but feel proud for the guy. He then started to circte mana all over his body before releasing it towards the floating orbs. ¡°Go and wait around the area for a bit, Horell. I¡¯ll just call the others beforemencing the n.¡±

    ¡°As you wish, Master,¡± Horell respectfully replied to Chonk¡¯s orders, heading out of the hut to grind some of his misceneous skills.

    While grinding said skills, Horell could not help but sigh and look up at the sky, muttering, ¡°I really hope Herellia and the others can fight against Chonk. Especially Aurus, I¡¯m sure he¡¯ll be able to do that in a matter of time.¡±

    ¡°If I was not saved by Chonk, I wonder how my life would be?¡±

    ¡°Will I be¡­truly happy?¡±

    ¡­

    Within the same continent, inside the inheritance of Area 52.

    Aurus could not help but breathe heavily through his body as his mental energy was sapped dry by the instruction given to him by the inheritance. Nheless, he was able to look around and see how far he hade from the start of the trial.

    Behind him were 8rge blocks of stone, each showing the choices he made in order to move forward and hopefully finish the trial. Surrounding it was viscous fluid that easily dissolved the other blocks of stone surrounding his choices.

    To those that have an acute sense of his progress, Aurus was already finished with his 9th choice, one choice left before finishing the trial. As for those who don¡¯t have that acute sense, please read the previous sentence.

    ¡°Only one block separates me from finishing this fucking trial,¡± Aurus could not help but let out a sigh as he tried to regain his mental energy, preparing for the final instruction.

    ¡°Inheritor, here is your 10th and final instruction.¡± After a few minutes of total silence after Aurus¡¯ 9th move, the voice from the inheritance resounded once more.

    ¡°This time, you will have to choose 10 blocks out of 440 total blocks to pass the trial.¡±

    ¡°¡­¡±

    ¡°Fuck my life.¡±

    ¡ª¡ª¨C

    [1] I wonder when the name of the continent will be revealed. Soon? Never?

 Chapter 119: Intense Shock

    Chapter 119: Intense Shock

    Within the inheritance of Area 52.

    ¡°Inheritor, here is your 10th and final instruction,¡± the voice from the inheritance resounded while Aurus was regaining his mental energy, as well as his mentalposure.

    Thankfully, he was able to regain enough to clearly hear the voice, putting his mind at full capacity. ¡°Let¡¯s start the final question!¡±

    As if the inheritance was answering Aurus¡¯ request, the voice from the inheritance replied with, ¡°In this instruction, you will have to choose 10 blocks from the 440 total blocks avable to you in order to finish the trial.¡±

    At that instant¡­

    Aurus¡¯ mind went nk.

    ¡°¡­¡± He was utterly speechless. Of course, he knew that for every consecutive instruction, the amount of the blocks he had to choose, as well as the total amount of blocks he could choose from increased after every instruction. That was why his mental energy was sapped dry after clearing the 9th question.

    But right now, he had barely recovered enough mental energy to understand what the voice was saying. Out of rage, he muttered, ¡°Fuck my life.¡±

    Not long after that, Aurus started to scream and vent his anger by saying some very mean words that should not be stated because it would definitely hurt people. Then again, this novel has shown some curse words, so think curse words, but on the level of cursing the inheritance creator¡¯s ancestor¡¯s ancestor¡¯s ancestor.

    After venting out all of his anger, he started to breathe deeply and steadily, gradually regaining his usualposure as he let his mental energy reach its peak before starting to tackle this final instruction.

    He looked at the amount of blocks he could choose from in order to move before letting out a sigh.

    ¡°Ahhh fuck it. Let¡¯s get this over with.¡±

    And with that, the 10th and final instruction¡­question, ah whatever works in this case, by the inheritance nowes to a start.

    ¡°Listen carefully to my words, inheritor, for I¡¯ll say it just once.¡± As usual, the voice reminded Aurus to listen attentively to every word it said.

    ¡°For your 10th and final instruction, you are an archaeologist that has discovered a special trap in a certain tomb. It seems that this trap consists ofrge blocks where one wrong move can lead to imminent death at anytime.¡±

    ¡°Thankfully, you were able to recover an artifact before entering the special trap, coincidentally obtaining the knowledge needed to pass through the trap without any problems.¡±

    ¡°The alphabet used on the artifact was anguage decoded by linguists multiple years ago already, allowing you to know the writing on the artifact very well. Only six characters could be seen on the artifact, all pertaining to directions.¡±

    ¡°Oh?¡± Hearing thest statement said by the voice, Aurus¡¯ sense of hearing could not help but perk up, knowing very well that the method to clear the final instruction was in this part.

    ¡°The first character looked simr to the letter V, and ording to what you learned, it pertained to the direction up. The second character looked like abination of S and D, pertaining to the direction of down ording to what you learned.¡±

    ¡°As for the third and fourth character, the third character was an P with a curve at the end, while the fourth character was a mirrored version. ording to the linguists, the third character means left while the fourth means right.¡±

    ¡°As for the fifth and sixth character, they were more abstruse than the first four characters, with the fifth character looking like a mix between X, C, and R. As for the sixth character, it was even worse, being a mix between B, F, K, and Y. As for their meanings, it was just the secondary directions northwest and northeast respectively.¡±

    ¡°The pattern on the artifact was written from top to bottom, using the pattern 5,6,4,3,4,3,2,2,1,1. Of course, changing it for the characters.¡±

    ¡°While looking at it, you know for a fact that your trantion was correct as you¡¯ve learned the alphabet on the artifact for many years. But there was a nagging feeling in your mind that something was off.¡±

    ¡°You had a feeling that the artifact was misleading you to follow the pattern on the special trap in order to trap you forever. After pondering over it for a bit, you decided to follow your gut feeling and look at the pattern from another angle.¡±

    ¡°You flipped the artifact, giving you the pattern 1,1,2,2,3,4,3,4,6,5. You think about the pattern for a bit and have doubts as to whether this pattern would allow you to cross the special trap safely as well. In the end, you have two patterns to choose from.¡±

    ¡°Which one will you choose?¡±

    After the voice was finished exining the situation, Aurus started to ponder on the two patterns given to him.

    ¡°The first pattern is 5,6,4,3,4,3,2,2,1,1, while the other one is the reversed version of it,¡± Aurus muttered as his brain started turning its gears, working on making a solution to this 10th question.

    ¡°Substituting the numbers with directions, the first pattern gives me the following order of northwest, northeast, right, left, right, left, down, down, up, and up.¡±

    ¡°Wait a minute¡­¡± After hearing himself talk about the directions, a memory so vague to him surfaced in his mind, a memory that contained a special code in multiple games in his previous life that it was considered an easter egg.

    ¡°Ain¡¯t this the¡­¡± Gradually clearing the memory that surfaced in his mind, Aurus gradually realized the pattern that was given to him by the inheritance.

    ¡°The Konami Code!¡±

    The Konami Code was a famous easter egg in his previous life. It could even be considered as a legend due to how popr it was. It went along the lines of up, up, down, down, left, right, left, right, B, A, then start.

    Of course, Aurus noticed that the pattern on the artifact was the reversed version of the Konami code, with B and A being swapped for northeast and northwest respectively.

    Without hesitation, he discarded the first pattern in his mind, following the second pattern that coincided with the memory that surfaced in his mind.

    Whoosh!

    Hovering off of the ground, Aurus moved two blocks forward, then the same amount in reverse. He then moved to the block to his left, and then to his right, twice. At this point, a great majority of the stone blocks had fallen into the viscous fluid and dissolved, leaving only a handful for Aurus to choose from.

    Of course, Aurus did not have to think hard on what blocks he should choose, moving to the block in his front, leaning towards the right, before moving forwards one more time, leaning towards the left this time.

    Grrrrrrrr¡­

    All of a sudden, after finishing the 10 moves, as if Aurus achieved something special, all of the remaining blocks instantly sunk down and dissolved from the viscous fluid, leaving the sole block of stone where Aurus hovered off of.

    Seeing that the block of stone he was hovering off of was not dissolved by the viscous fluid, Aurus could not help but let out a sigh of relief and say, ¡°Haah¡­ it¡¯s finally over. The second trial is finally over.¡±

    A few secondster, the viscous fluid that threatened to dissolve the stone block that Aurus hovered off of gradually retreated, with the stone block Aurus was on gradually expanding in exchange. This continued on for a few minutes, with the big stone room returning back to normal. His vision also returned to normal, with the ck fog that was supposed to cover his vision dissipating along with the viscous fluid.

    With the big stone room returning back to normal, Aurus could now truly rx,nding on the ground, regaining his mental energy and his mentalposure while waiting for the inheritance to tell him his reward.

    Eventually, after ten minutes, a monotonous voice started to resound throughout the stone room, announcing Aurus¡¯ reward.

    ¡°Inheritor, you have sessfullypleted the second trial, the Trial of Logic.¡±

    ¡°Conparing you to the other inheritors that have taken the same trial in your past, you are the first one to havepleted the trial in such a short amount of time, only taking a little bit over 2 hours.¡±

    ¡°For this, the reward that will be given you is highly boosted than normal. I hope you can put the reward to good use.¡±

    Ding!

    After the monotonous voice was finished speaking, a notification sound resounded throughout his mind,ing from the system alone. He had a feeling that the reward he obtained from the second trial was rted to the system after hearing the notification sound, hence he checked the notification log.

    At the very instant he was finished reading the notification, Aurus closed the notification screen and stayed silent for a few minutes. It was only after that did he start to make noise.

    ¡°What the fuck¡­.¡±

    ¡°Unbelievable¡­¡±

    ¡°What the fuck¡­¡±

    Now what did Aurus obtain, you may ask?

    That would be 300 Genesis Points, enough for him to temper his soul and start investing into the Genesis Tree.

    ¡°What in the ever loving fuck.¡±

 Chapter 120: Deception and Courage

    Chapter 120: Deception and Courage

    Within the XXXX Continent, there lied a kingdom named the Seraph Kingdom, a kingdom that has been standing for over 500 years already due to its first and current king, King Seraphim. King Seraphim was a valiant warrior in his early days, creating a new path of ascension for himself, allowing him to establish a kingdom like Seraph Kingdom.

    Within this kingdom were 15 princes, with three of them dying due to the conflicts that arose before thepetition for the throne started. To be honest, there was really no need for thepetition for the throne.

    King Seraphim was someone who had already ascended to a Rank 8 ss, one step left before bing a Rank 9 ss Wielder, and two steps left before transcending to a new realm. Of course, as someone of a very high ss, his vitality was incredibly strong, giving him a lifespan of over 1500 years. But he had dreams, dreams to go further, dreams to turn his kingdom into an empire, an empire that could rule over the continent.

    And bing a Rank 9 ss was only the first step towards that.

    It is also a story saved forter.

    ¡­

    Within the Seraph Kingdom, specifically the castle in the very middle of the Seraph Kingdom, lied a veryrge and sturdy tower that looked like it could withstand the test of time.

    Thisrge tower consisted of 5 floors, and only one being could be seen looking out of the window of the 5th floor. This being wore a crown on his head, signifying that he was a prince of the Seraph Kingdom. He wore clothes that befitted someone of royalty,bined with sword-like eyebrows, ash blonde hair, and his chiseled face, it seemed like he was a mix between the east and the west.

    This prince was none other than the Third Prince, one of the top contenders for the throne. As for the Ninth Prince? Vanadir? He was considered useless.

    Tapping his fingers on the resting arm of his chair, the Third Prince could not help but sigh as he looked out of the window, muttering, ¡°It seems that the n was unsessful.¡±

    Whoosh!

    Not long after finishing his sentence, he felt a breeze pass through his body and stop only a few meters behind him. A few secondster, a ck silhouette gradually manifested from thin air, revealing a man covered in ck clothing, with his two eyes being the only thing visible.

    ¡°Your Highness.¡± The ck silhouette bowed and kneeled down before greeting the Third Prince. ¡°I have some bad news to tell you.¡±

    ¡°I had that feeling when you came in.¡± The Third Prince turned his head around to look at the ck silhouette, before standing up to gradually walk closer to the ck silhouette. ¡°Did you kill the Ninth Prince?¡±

    As for the ck silhouette¡¯s answer, it shook its head with its eyes closed from left to right. That¡¯s right.

    This ck silhouette was the Rank 5 Void Assassin that tried to kill Vanadir.

    ¡°I was not able to kill him in one attack. You know me, I¡¯m at my strongest when I attack in one go,¡± the assassin said to the third prince.

    ¡°Yeah, that¡¯s a part of your ss. You don¡¯t have to go into the specifics,¡± the Third Prince waved his hand as he replied. ¡°Anyways, since you were unsessful in killing the Ninth Prince, I¡¯ll have to reduce the amount I¡¯ll give to you.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s fine by me.¡± The assassin shrugged. ¡°It makes sense anyway.¡±

    The Third Prince then snapped a finger, opening up a rift just a few decimeters away from the assassin, gold coins gradually flowing out of the rift one by one.

    After a minute or so, the rift was then closed, a small pile of gold coins being made a few decimeters away from the assassin.

    ¡°Nheless, I still have to thank you for killing the Twelfth, Fifth, and Second Prince. I increased the amount a bit than it should be thanks to that,¡± Third Prince said with something going on in his mind.

    The assassin hastily and efficiently grabbed every gold coin from the floor, leaving no gold coin behind. Nodding in response, the assassin then said, ¡°Thank you for your generosity, Third Prince. If you need my services next time, then you know what to do.¡±

    Whoosh!

    And with the breeze of the wind, the ck silhouette of the assassin in front of the Third Prince¡¯s eyes, leaving him to himself once more.

    Closing her eyes for a bit, he gradually made his way towards his chair, sitting back down.

    After a while, he opened his eyes with a sense of rity within them, muttering, ¡°It seems that the Ninth Prince¡¯s protector is quite strong to fend off against a Rank 5 ss Wielder¡¯s attacks. An offensive Rank 5 ss Wielder at that.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m going to have to change my sights onto the Seventh Prince.¡±

    ¡°If I sessfully kill him, that would be great.¡±

    At that instant, a malicious grin crept up his face.

    Only if he knew what wasing for him.

    ¡­

    Within XXXX Continent, Greater Tempest Cliff.

    ¡°Hah!¡±

    Whoosh!

    Crash!

    Within the inner parts of the forest, a man and arge beast was fighting against one another. Against ordinary expectations, the beast was being beaten up badly. Extremely badly.

    Crash! Crash! Crash!

    From the strength hidden beneath the attack from the man, therge beast was sent crashing through multiple thick trees in a row, only stopping at around the 15th tree.

    Thud!

    Therge beastnded on the ground face first, with wounds and bruises all over its body. Not only that, it had also umted multiple internal injuries from the fight.

    It struggled to stand upright, but eventually it was able to stand up. While doing so, it asked itself, ¡°Why the fuck did I provoke such a monster?¡±

    Indeed, the beast thought that the human was a monster.

    Rustle. Rustle.

    As the beast heard rustling soundsing nearer and nearer, the beast stood frozen in ce, fear taking over its body. It wanted to run away from it, but it knew very well that it was inevitable.

    Eventually, the human got past through the bushes, revealing its unscathed figure once more to the beast.

    This human was none other than Vanadir, fighting against beasts at a level equal or higher than him in order to gain inspiration andbat experience Inspiration for what, you may ask? Inspiration to ascend to a higher ss.

    Although there have been multiple paths of ascension created throughout the continent¡¯s history, to truly ascend to a higher ss would needprehension, perseverance and inspiration.

    ¡°Be grateful you¡¯re being killed for my improvement, beast,¡± Vanadir could not help but say as Wind energy particles started to coalesce around the de of his sword, Magnus Tempestria.

    Whoosh!

    Without the beast being aware, Vanadir dashed towards the beast and started shing erratically yet urately, as if it was a fight between beasts.

    ¡°[Tempest Frenzy]!¡±

    sh! sh! sh! sh!

    The sound of metal cutting through flesh could be heard multiple times as the beast¡¯s cries resonated through the forest. Gradually, the cries got weaker and weaker as it turned into whimpers, ending up with total silence at the very end.

    ¡°Haah¡­haah¡­¡± Vanadir looked at the beast he killed as he gasped for air, seemingly obtaining an idea as to what the essence of his Ascension skill was.

    When starting out as an Animate, one has to master a Transition skill. Once one has transitioned to a Rank 1 ss, one can now obtain an Ascension skill to use to ascend all the way to a Rank 9 ss or higher.

    ¡°Rather than forcing the wind to follow your path, you instead follow the path of the wind, allowing you to attack in a more natural, yet forceful manner,¡± Vanadir muttered to himself as he pondered over it for a bit, seemingly satisfied with his conclusion a minuteter.

    ¡°Your Highness, we must move to another ce, lest we get caught up with another beast unprepared.¡± All of a sudden, a voice familiar to Vanadir resounded near where he was, making him slightly frown in the process.

    ¡°Dane, if you talked a little bitter, then I might¡¯ve digested what I wasprehending fully.¡± Vanadir could not help but sigh and look at Dane, who was floating in the air.

    Still floating in the air, Dane did a half bow and apologized to Vanadir. ¡°I deeply apologize to Your Highness for interrupting, but this matter is truly urgent. ording to my magic detection spell, a Rank 4 Beast is heading towards this way, and I¡¯m afraid that even with my help, we won¡¯t be able to kill it.¡±

    ¡°A Rank 4 Beast?¡± After hearing what Dane said, rather than fear striking his heart, it was instead filled with self-confidence. ¡°Maybe this is the thing I need to finally transition to a Rank 3 ss,¡± Vanadir muttered to himself.

    To be honest, Vanadir was a sort of genius, especially atprehension. He had alreadyprehended the Rank 2 version of his Ascension skill to 99 percent, he only needed that single percent to fully master it and ascend to a higher level.

    ¡°Dane, how long will it take for the beast to arrive?¡± Shaking the blood off his de, Vanadir asked.

    ¡°Around 30 seconds, why do you ask Your Highness?¡± Dane replied with a follow-up question. Only for him to realize what Vanadir is doing. ¡°Your Highness, please don¡¯t tell me you¡¯re doing what I¡¯m thinking.¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Dane. I won¡¯t tell you to fight with me or anything, I just need you to support me from the back.¡± Vanadir looked at Dane and grinned in a slightly mischievous manner. ¡°I¡¯ll do all the fighting, you just have to debuff the beast as much as possible. Can you suppress 25% of its power?¡±

    Dane did not know whether to be concerned or not. If he was up against the beast alone, he would have no problems killing it. But he knew very well that Vanadir would die under a single attack from a beast at that level. He just said that he could not kill the beast if they worked together so Vanadir was safe.

    But it seems Vanadir liked to take risks.

    ¡®I guess I have no choice but to support him, huh.¡¯ With this thought, Dane could not help but wryly smile.

    ¡°I can suppress 25% of it power no problem, Your Highness. But that would take around 20 seconds to cast. I need you to stall it for 5 seconds because there are only 15 seconds left between you and the beast,¡± Dane replied.

    ¡°That¡¯s fine with me.¡± Vanadir licked his lips as he went on his battle stance, radiating an aura of killing intent infused with Wind energy particles.

    ¡°Ahhh, I¡¯m getting fired up!¡±

 Chapter 121: Soul Strength

    Chapter 121: Soul Strength

    Within the inheritance named Area 52, there lied a green wooden sculpture that looked like it was sculpted by a master craftsman, but in fact, it was an Inanimate being nearing the Animate level. If you can say that S-grade Inanimate is close to being Animate, that is.

    This green wooden sculpture was none other than Aurus, who had just finished the 10th and final instruction of the second trial, the Trial of Logic. At this current moment, the monotonous voice was finished announcing to him how he had surpassed all the other previous inheritors in terms of the trial, getting a boosted reward thanks to it.

    Ding!

    As usual, when obtaining a reward from an inheritance, Aurus¡¯ system would notify him of such a thing¡­although it goes without a saying that Aurus could find the reward just fine without the notification. Nheless, it made it easier for him to find the reward since it was all in a single holographic screen.

    ¡°System, open the notification log,¡± Aurusmanded the system not long after the monotonous voice was gone. Without missing a beat, the system responded with a holographic screen manifesting and expanding in front of his field of vision, allowing him to see all of the things he might have missed with just one nce.

    ¡®[Flux Sacrifice] has reached the MAX level.¡¯

    ¡®[Flux Sacrifice] has met the necessary requirements and is ready to evolve.¡¯

    ¡®[Greater Illusion Resistance] has leveled up by two levels.¡¯

    ¡°Well that was fast.¡± Since Aurus was reading from top to bottom, he did not notice the reward from the inheritance trial, focusing on the notification that was at the very top first.

    ¡°System, remove [Flux Sacrifice] from the Learning module and rece it with hmm¡­¡± Aurusmanded the system and as he was about to finish themand, he pondered for a bit in silence. It took him a few seconds to say ¡°[Spirit Aura].¡±

    To be honest, it was a logical thought. Ever since he obtained the skill from the Alliance Market, he had never used it even once. Now that he had ced it in the Learning module, even though he did not use it, by the time he did, it would be better than ever.

    ¡®[Flux Sacrifice] has been removed from the module, reced with [Spirit Aura].¡¯ Another screen popped up in front of Aurus¡¯ field of vision, notifying him that it was a sess.

    After seeing another screen pop up in front of his field of vision, he then said, ¡°Evolve [Flux Sacrifice].¡±

    Ding!

    It only took an instant for the skill to be evolved as the system notified him of the skill¡¯s new name, [Better Flux Sacrifice].

    Definitely great naming senseing from the system.

    After he was finished evolving the skill, Aurus continued to read the notification log and eventually, he found the reward the inheritance gave him.

    ¡®The user has obtained 300 Genesis Points from the Area 52 Inheritance, Trial of Logic.¡±

    ¡°¡­¡± After he was finished reading the notification, Aurus was left at a loss for words. He closed and opened his sense of vision multiple times as he could not believe the number that was stered beside the words ¡®Genesis Points¡¯.

    It only took him around 20 times of closing and opening his sense of vision, in other words blinking, to fully ept the reward the inheritance gave him. The first word that came out of his nonexistent mouth was¡­

    ¡°Woah.¡±

    It was truly unbelievable. He had grinded for so long, only to get around 40 Genesis Points. But now, he had only cleared a trial, but it gave him 300 Genesis Points?

    Aurus shook his head to remove all the random thoughts in his mind. Oh wait, he doesn¡¯t have one. Wait¡­does he?

    Anyways, Aurus shook away the random thoughts in his mind and thought about the 300 Genesis Points seriously.

    ¡°How should I allocate it?¡± Aurus questioned himself, only for his thought process to be interrupted by the monotonous voice from the inheritance.

    ¡°Inheritor, you have thirty minutes to prepare before the third trial, the Trial of Soul Strength, starts. It is highly suggested that the inheritor should have incredibly high soul strength, or else the inheritor would not be able to pass this trial,¡± the monotonous voice stated, slightly surprising Aurus as he had three times the amount of time to prepare.

    Now, was Aurus going to use the whole 30 minutes to create hypotheses as to how the third trial worked? Of course not! He was going to use the 300 Genesis Points given to him within these 30 minutes!

    ¡°First off, I¡¯m going to use a portion of my points on the Soul Enchantment System.¡± Aurus made up his mind as hemanded the system to open the Soul Enchantment System. Then again, it was pretty much a given that he would have to dabble in the feature once again since the name of the trial he was up against was Soul Strength.

    Ding!

    In an instant, a holographic screen appeared in front of Aurus, revealing the Soul Enchantment System to him. As he skimmed through the information on the screen, Aurus could not help but skim over the screen a few more times as he asked himself, ¡°Why is my Soul Power so high?¡±

    ________

    [Soul Enchantment System]

    Soul Power: 20 [Damage+100% (Capped)]

    ¡ª¡ª¨C

    [Rank 0 ¡ª Sigils of Tempering] ¨C Mastered

    [Rank 1 ¡ª Sigils of Inner Tempering] ¨C 0/5

    [Rank Upper 1 ¨C ???? ?? ?? ????] ¨C Needs the Sigils of Inner Tempering to be mastered

    ________

    He pondered over the reason as to why his Soul Power was insanely high. It took him a few minutes to find out the reason, which was all because of the skill given to him by the inheritance at the first trial.

    ¡°To think that the Soul Enchantment System is considered as a soul-based technique¡­¡± Aurus could not help but sigh as he felt some stress creeping in his mind. Of course, he did not mind high Soul Power, since it brought him benefits. But from his memories, those with high Soul Power in the early Inanimate stages were most likely to be used as a catalyst for the weapons of Animates. That also meant that yers at the Animate stage could basically create weapons out of Inanimate yers.

    Although there were no other yer of ISE other than himself in this world, he still wanted to be safe from Animates, or at least less detectable than now. He was very sure that those Animates with high perception could easily sense his strong soul.

    ¡°I¡¯ll have to check the Tempest Cliff Inheritance or the Alliance Market if they have soul sealing skills at handter,¡± Aurus said to himself as hemanded the system to max out the Rank 1 Sigils.

    Ding!

    ¡¯10 Genesis Points have been consumed to upgrade [Rank 1 ¡ª Sigils of Inner Tempering] to its maximum level.¡¯

    ¡®Your Soul Power has increased by 5 points (13 points total due to a special skill).¡¯

    ¡®Thanks to the user mastering the Rank 1 Sigils, an additional two points of Soul Power has been added (5 points total due to a special skill).¡¯

    ¡®Thanks to the user mastering the Rank 1 Sigils, the Rank Upper 1 Sigils, the Sigils of External Tempering, have been unlocked.¡¯

    Reading through the consecutive notifications brought by upgrading the Rank 1 Sigils to the maximum level, Aurus could not help but shiver at the fact that this was going to make him more detectable.

    ¡°I now have a Soul Power of 38¡­this is too much, even for a decently ranked Animate!¡± Aurus could not help butin in his heart. Contrary to hisints though, he continued to invest Genesis Points into the Soul Enchantment System, maxing out the Rank Upper 1 Sigils which consisted of 8 Sigils in total.

    Ding!

    ¡¯25 Genesis Points have been consumed to upgrade [Rank Upper 1 ¡ª Sigils of External Tempering] to maximum level.¡¯

    ¡®Your Soul Power has increased by 12 points (30 points total due to a special skill).¡¯

    ¡®Thanks to the user mastering the Rank Upper 1 Sigils, an additional 4 points of Soul Power have been added (10 points total due to a special skill).¡¯

    ¡®Thanks to the user mastering the Rank Upper 1 Sigils, the Rank Inferior 2 Sigils, the Sigils of Inner-Outer Unification, have been unlocked. This set consists of 12 Sigils.¡¯

    ¡°¡­¡± Aurus could not help but calcte his current Soul Power after seeing the notifications from the system one more time. In the end, he could not help but curse out, ¡°Now this is just fucking overkill at this point.¡±

    As he said this to himself, he decided that he was going to stop¡­only for it to be at a crossroads as he hesitated. ¡°Is a Soul Power truly enough to fully clear the third trial?¡± Aurus had a feeling that a Soul Power of 100 would totally be enough to clear the third trial. Then again, he was now going to be extremely noticeable at this point.

    ¡°Ah, fuck it,¡± Aurus said to himself. ¡°The first thing I¡¯ll do after leaving this inheritance is to get a soul sealing skill as fast as possible!¡±

    ¡°Upgrade the Rank Inferior 2 Sigils to its maximum level!¡±

    Ding!

    ¡¯60 Genesis Points have been consumed to upgrade [Rank Inferior 2 ¡ª Sigils of Inner-Outer Unification] to maximum level.¡¯

    ¡®Your Soul Power has increased by 36 points (90 points total due to a special skill).¡¯

    ¡®Thanks to the user mastering the Rank Inferior 2 Sigils, an additional 8 points of Soul Power have been added (20 points total due to a special skill).¡¯

    ¡®Thanks to the user mastering the Rank Inferior 2 Sigils, the Rank Lower 2 Sigils, the Sigils of Foundation Establishment, have been unlocked. This set consists of 15 Sigils.¡¯

    ¡®Due to the user having a Soul Power of over 150, the Rare grade skill [Soul Transcendence] has been created, allowing the user¡¯s stats and senses to be highly boosted for a certain amount of time.¡¯

    ¡®Due to the user having a high Soul Power, the system shall warn the user to suppress the Soul Power, lest the user wants to be caught by external entities.¡¯

    ¡°¡­¡± After upgrading the Soul Sigils once more, Aurus decided that now was a good time to stop. He calcted the total amount of Soul Power he had and could not help but curse afterwards.

    ¡°Fuck.¡±

    ¡°A Soul Power of 188.¡±

    ¡°Ain¡¯t this overkill?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m just fucking target practice for the Animates at this point!¡±

 Chapter 122: Genesis Seed

    Chapter 122: Genesis Seed

    Aurus was at a loss for words. He truly could not believe nor fathom how easily his Soul Power had increased. Sure, he did obtain a new skill from having insanely high Soul Power. Not only that, with insanely high Soul Power, he had an easier time recalling and deducing certain things than before.

    But what Aurus was worried about was that¡­this would basically make him visible to the strong Animates!

    ¡°Ah, fuck,¡± Aurus could not help but curse out. ¡°Why the fuck did I go overboard with this Soul Power thing? How did I even get to the conclusion that a Soul Power of 100 would guarantee me fully clearing the third trial? It could be 30 for all I care!¡±

    If he knew that an external entity affected his thinking in terms of the conditions to fully clear the third trial, he would definitely be furious and bear a grudge until one of them dies.

    Gradually, this anger died down as he vented out all of his anger, letting out a soft sigh in the end. ¡°There¡¯s no pointining over what has been done. I¡¯ll just grab a soul suppressing or soul masking skill from the inheritance I own or from the Alliance Market. If they have a lot of those skills, that would definitely be great.¡±

    ¡°For now, it¡¯s time to focus on the Genesis Tree.¡± As he muttered the words ¡®Genesis Tree¡¯, a glint could be seen in Aurus¡¯ nonexistent eyes. He had finally obtained arge amount of Genesis Points, giving him the chance to finally take a step in the Genesis Tree.

    ¡°Open the Genesis Tree,¡± Aurusmanded the system.

    Ding!

    Not long after, the system responded with a holographic screen appearing in front of his field of vision. But what it contained was not what he expected.

    ¡®Genesis Seed/Tree System DLC [0/1]¡¯

    ¡°Eh?¡± Aurus was left speechless after seeing that the Genesis Tree he was very familiar with was actually an additional part of the system locked behind a paywall¡­just like other parts of the system.

    ¡°I remember the Genesis Tree very well, but there¡¯s the word ¡®Seed¡¯ beside it,¡± Aurus muttered to himself as gears turned in his mind, creating a possible hypothesis as to what he saw. ¡°Does that mean I have to nurture a Genesis Seed first before it bes a Genesis Tree?¡±

    Aurus had a feeling that this was going to use up a lot of his Genesis Points. Nheless, it was something he had been yearning for all this time, so hemanded the system, ¡°Buy the Genesis Seed DLC. Give me a prompt before truly buying though.¡±

    Ding!

    And as requested, a prompt screen appeared in front of his field of vision, asking the question, ¡®The Genesis Seed DLC costs 50 Genesis Points to unlock. Would the user like to unlock the DLC?¡¯

    Seeing that it only costed 50 Genesis Points, Aurus hastily calcted the remaining Genesis Points, which came to an amount that neared 200 points. With that in mind, he did not hesitate to buy the Genesis Seed DLC.

    Ding!

    ¡¯50 Genesis Points have been deducted.¡¯

    ¡®The Genesis Seed DLC has been bought.¡¯

    ¡®The [Genesis Seed System] has been opened to the user.¡¯

    Skimming through the notification log, Aurus looked for the words where the transaction was sessful, finding it not long after. After seeing it with his own eyes, Aurus then opened the Genesis Seed System without hesitation.

    Ding!

    _______

    [Genesis Seed System]

    Genesis Points: 197

    ¡ª¡ª¨C

    [Aurus¡¯ Genesis Seed]

    Type: Neutral

    Grade: Inferior

    Maturity Level: 0/100

    ________

    In an instant, two screens were opened in front of Aurus¡¯ field of vision. On one of the screens, the information regarding his Genesis Seed could be seen. He skimmed through it and felt that the system was quite new to him, just like the Soul Enchantment System. He did have a feeling that with his high Soul Power, he would definitely get the hang of this system in no time.

    On the other screen, it exined the parts of the newly obtained system to him.

    ¡®As the new user of the [Genesis Seed System], you shall be given an overview of the system.¡¯

    ¡®The user shall always take three things into consideration: type, grade, and maturity level. These three things shall be a huge factor as to how the Genesis Tree shall be, and how useful it will be to the user.¡¯

    ¡®The type of the Genesis Seed pertains to the element it is inclined towards. It could be one of the basic elements, a rare element, or it could even be abination of multiple elements. It is rmended that the user picks a Genesis Seed type that has high affinity with the user.¡¯

    ¡®As for the grade, this is the quality of the Genesis Seed. The greater the quality, the more sturdy and moreplex the Genesis Tree will be. There are 10 grades to a Genesis Seed, with Inferior being the lowest, and Primordial being the highest.¡¯

    ¡®Lastly, the maturity level of the Genesis Seed. In actuality, the Genesis Seed can instantly sprout into a Genesis Tree without any maturity level, but it would only give out an extremely small Genesis Tree. Not only that, one would have to invest more things into the small tree to evolve it to a greater level. It is highly rmended to increase the seed¡¯s maturity level in order to form an extremelyplicated and great Genesis Tree that could help the user.¡¯

    ¡®The first steps rmended for the user is to first pick a type for the Genesis Seed, then raise the seed¡¯s grade by a few levels, then increase the seed¡¯s maturity level. The user does not have to worry about the seed regressing, as the Existence Evolution System can sustain the existence of the Genesis Seed without a problem.¡¯

    After finishing through the whole overview, Aurus now had an idea as to how he was going to nurture his Genesis Seed. Of course, he would increase the seed¡¯s grade and maturity level to its maximum, but one thing was still bothering him.

    ¡°What type of seed do I want to create?¡±

    To Aurus, he could focus on three types. He could focus on a Wind type seed as it would resonate very well with his species, as well as his skills. It would possibly give him enhanced movement speed as well.

    He could also focus on an Energy type seed as he was a mage that relied on SP. If he had an Energy type seed, he could possibly have arger energy pool, as well as the ability to cast multiple spells at the same time and even fuse them as one.

    Lastly, he could focus on a Space type seed. Now, at first nce, it was weird for Aurus to focus on a Space type seed. But with a Space type seed, he could possibly increase his movement and attack speed by multiple degrees, as well as gain the ability to teleport, and even seal space. He did not know if it was possible though.

    ¡°What should I pick¡­should I just pick one? Or should Ibine two? Maybe I¡¯llbine all three of them at once?¡± Aurus was at a crossroads on what to do. He had a feeling that if he didbine all three at once, it would eat up a lot of Genesis Points, more than what he had currently at hand.

    In the end, Aurus could only sigh and put the matter at the back of his head. ¡°I¡¯ll just focus on the grade and maturity level for now. The type cer.¡±

    And with that, Aurus started investing his Genesis Points as time ticked away before the start of the third trial.

    ¡­

    Within the Seraph Kingdom, there existed a manor where a being of great authority lived. He was known as a man that could dictate life or death. A man who could dictate the future stability of the kingdom. A man who could change the fortune of a person in an instant. He was also the person who gave an inheritance to an Inanimate without any other person knowing.

    This person was none other than Kevin, Great Sage Kevin.

    He currently sat down on his chair, sipping a bit of tea from his cup every once in a while, taking in every bit of information from his surroundings. While doing so, Kevin felt a great tugging feeling in his mind all of a sudden, surprising him to the point he stood up from his chair.

    ¡°How the¡­¡± Kevin could not believe it. The Inanimate he chose to control over the inheritance he made in the Tempest Cliff actually experienced such a leap in terms of soul strength?

    ¡°This strength is already enough to rival those Animates at Rank 3 or even higher¡­¡± After urately calcting Aurus¡¯ soul strength, a serious expression crept up on his face. ¡°I¡¯ve already warned him that he was going to be in danger in the future, but this is definitely going to hasten his untimely transformation into a weapon.¡±

    Of course, Kevin was not foreign to the idea of using Inanimates with strong souls as catalysts. He did not know why, but he had a feeling that the Inanimate he chose would eventually go on and do things.

    After sorting out the things in his mind, he let out a sigh and sat down one more time, sipping on his tea.

    ¡°I¡¯ll help him for now and suppress his soul power from other entities. I¡¯ll also talk to himter about the clone thing. I wonder if he made one already.¡±

    ¡°I hope he hasn¡¯t been caught yet.¡±

 Chapter 123: Hard-hitting

    Chapter 123: Hard-hitting

    Within the Seraph Kingdom, Kevin¡¯s manor.

    A serious expression crept up Kevin¡¯s face as he took a few breaths to recall the spell he would use to suppress Aurus¡¯ soul strength from other entities. As he did this, he extended both of his palms outward while subconsciously channeling his mana, letting it naturally release through the tips of his fingers.

    Swish! Swish! Swish! Swish!

    As the mana naturally¡­wait a minute. A swishing sound isn¡¯t really a good onomatopoeia for this kind of setting. Rather than swishing sounds echoing out through the room where Kevin was, faint whirring sounds instead resounded as the mana being released gradually turned into threads.

    At the time the threads of mana had reached a length of five meters, Kevin opened his eyes, seemingly in a tranced state.

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    In that very instant, Kevin willed the mana threads to ovep over one another in an esoteric pattern only he understood out of all the other sages in the kingdom. Since he was the only one who understood this pattern, it would be multiple times harder to crack the spell that was going to be casted on Aurus.

    Of course, Kevin was not satisfied with that. He felt that with enough time, other sages and mages would crack the pattern, allowing them to sense Aurus¡¯ true soul strength. And so¡­

    He made the pattern moreplicated.

    As the pattern grew more and more esoteric, he continued to produce more threads of mana from the tips of his fingers, adding moreyers to the pattern as it gradually a three-dimensional structure of condensed mana.

    Thinking that this was enough, Kevin stopped producing threads and instead focused on creating a mana ball to act as the energy source of the esoteric structure he had made.

    Fwoosh!

    It only took an instant for Kevin to umte and condense a great amount of mana into an energy source that wouldst the structure for over a week or so. As to how Kevin came up with that figure, as a Great Sage, a ss of the 7th Rank, he had divination and prediction powers that could be only described with the words ¡®overwhelmingly urate¡¯.

    Click!

    Contrary to normally heard sounds, rather than making a vwoom sound or some sort of futuristic sound that would fit the situation more, the ball of mana clicked into the middle of the esoteric structure, instantly making the esoteric structure radiate a faint yet powerful blue light that had the power to restrict a certain thing. Indeed, this esoteric structure did not have a specific thing to restrict, rather, it was up to the caster as to what it was going to restrict.

    Looking at the mana structure he had made, Kevin felt proud at the fact that he had not lost his touch after all these years. Not long after, Kevin snapped his fingers, causing a rift in the space in front of him to open.

    ¡°Fusion Magic. 6th Circle. 3rd Sage Circle. Animus Miniatris Regtii.¡±

    ¡°[Soul Suppression Pagoda: Kevin Version]!¡±

    Whoosh!

    Without hesitation, the esoteric structure he had made entered the space rift and headed towards the ce he wanted it to end up.

    With Aurus.

    Swoosh!

    And not even a secondter, the tugging feeling Kevin felt had lessened by a great margin, bing unrecognizable from its previous strength. With that, Kevin let out a sigh of relief as he pointed one of his fingers upward, creating a smaller ball of condensed mana in an instant.

    ¡°With that out of the way, let¡¯s try and contact Aurus. I should really tell him to make his clone faster. That thing doesn¡¯t really make a clone in an instant.¡±

    Fwoosh!

    Rather than the mana ball exploding and connecting with Aurus¡¯ soul, it instead fizzed out into nothingness, casting a peculiar expression on Kevin¡¯s face.

    ¡°Hm? That¡¯s weird. I¡¯m pretty sure this thing will connect anywhere.¡±

    ¡°Unless¡­¡± The gears in his mind started to turn as he came to a possible conclusion as to why he can¡¯t speak to Aurus.

    ¡°He¡¯s in another space as a whole. And only inheritances fall under that portion for his current abilities.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll try again once he¡¯s done with his inheritance, I guess.¡±

    ¡­

    Outside the Seraph Kingdom was a forest that was termed as the Forest of Cruelty due to the sheer amount of strong beasts that roamed the territory. Surprisingly, a person was able to make a territory inside the forest for himself, bing known as the Devourer of Chaos.

    Of course, this person did not really do it for fame or fortune, but rather, this person wanted to stay away from people while being as close to it as possible. Not only that, this person did it in order to prove their strength.

    This person was already at a Rank 5 ss, enough to be considered as one of the elites within Seraph Kingdom. Not only that, the person could also open a school of thought or an academy based around their own ss.

    But this person didn¡¯t.

    Why?

    This person wanted to grow even stronger.

    Rustle! Rustle!

    As the bushes rustled with the breeze flowing through the forest, a modest looking cabin made out of the wood from the forest could be seen near the middle of the forest.

    Creak¡­

    At an unknown timeter, the door to this cabin was opened, revealing an average looking man, except for the fact that his eyes glistened like rare rubies.

    This was none other than the person known as the Devourer of Chaos by the masses, a Rank 5 ss Wielder, specifically the ss Primal Hellbringer.

    From the name of the ss alone, one would think that this person was some sort of buff and short-tempered guy that would probably fight against the main character of a novel and end up defeated. That was not the case here.

    He took in a breath of the fresh air around him and grabbed the axe he had made from the bones of the beasts here and¡­

    Started cutting down some of the trees near the vicinity of his cabin.

    Chop! Chop! Chop!

    With every hack he made in chopping trees, he would exert his full strength into it, chopping off the trunk in one swing. This was something he would do every day as there was no source of heat inside his cabin other than the fire he would create from the trunks he cut.

    ¡°It¡¯s getting chillier these past few days. I should cut a few more trees so I don¡¯t have to step out on the snow when it falls,¡± he muttered to himself as he continued cutting trees.

    Whoosh!

    As if it was like a gust of wind, a strong feeling instantly spread throughout his body, prompting him to stop cutting as his instincts shouted that if he missed the opportunity, he would probably regret it.

    With the instinct taking over his rationality, he swung the axe he was holding hard onto a trunk before running like a mad man throughout the forest, trying to find the opportunity.

    ¡°Where is it? Where is my treasure?!¡± Of course, from the name alone, there were some side effects to obtaining the ss, one of which was bing berserk when instinct took over logic.

    Thankfully, this incident did notst long, with the foreboding feeling fading away around ten secondster, forcing his rationality to kick back into high gear.

    ¡°Eh?¡± As he noticed that he was quite a distance away from his cabin, he could not help but look at his surroundings with shock. ¡°How did I get here?¡±

    He tried to recall what had happened before he got the ce he currently was, only for him to fail. In the end, he let out a sigh and started to walk back to the cabin, remembering to grab the axe he vaguely remembered he had stuck onto a trunk.

    ¡°I wonder what took over me.¡±

    ¡°Oh well, it¡¯s not like it would help me or something.¡±

    ¡­

    Within the Area 52 Inheritance.

    ¡°The thirty minutes of preparation time is now up.¡± Without caring for what Aurus was doing, the monotonous voice started to resonate throughout therge stone room he was in. ¡°The third trial, the Trial of Soul Strength, shall now start.¡±

    Hearing these wordse out of the inheritance, Aurus could not help but let out a sigh of relief as he muttered to himself, ¡°I¡¯m d I was able to finish tinkering with the system somewhat.¡±

    Of course, the system he was pertaining to was the Genesis Seed System. He had used all of his Genesis Points in order to boost his seed¡¯s grade by 5 grades, and his seed¡¯s maturity level by 30 points. As for the type of seed he was going to nurture, he was still undecided.

    ¡°I still have around 50 Genesis Points to spare,¡± Aurus said to himself. ¡°I¡¯ll think about the seed type after this trial.¡±

    And as if the Inheritance waited for Aurus to finish talking to himself, the monotonous voice of the inheritance started talking only after Aurus was finished.

    ¡°The third trial, the Trial of Soul Strength, shall focus on the rigidity and the power of the inheritor¡¯s soul. In other words, it is a trial in order to find if the inheritor¡¯s soul strength is enough to obtain the lowest ranked key of the inheritance or a higher ranked key of the inheritance.¡±

    Hearing the word ¡®key¡¯ being mentioned, Aurus¡¯ sense of hearing perked up as he gradually be excited for the third trial. ¡°I wonder if a Soul Power of 188 is enough to clear the third trial.¡±

    Whoosh!

    While mumbling to himself, a part of the stone room started to expand upwards, turning into a tower of sorts as it divided itself into levels that was reced with dim lights not long after. The borders that differentiated between the levels gradually grew more and more intricate as a huge part of the bottom of the stone tower extended outwards towards Aurus¡¯ direction, turning into a stone te that seemed to serve a purpose.

    While looking at the tower that was transforming in front of his very own sense of vision, Aurus could not make a heads or tails as to what the thing in front of him was. But as he heard the instructions from the inheritance, he instantly knew what it was.

    ¡°The mechanics of the third trial is simple. The inheritor must manifest their soul strength into a tangible object and use it to hit the stone te as hard as possible. With that, the soul strength of the inheritor shall be measured. A soul strength value of 10 is enough to pass, and a soul strength value of 50 is enough to fully reap the rewards of the third trial.¡±

    ¡°Wait a minute¡­¡± Aurus was filled to the brim with shock as he said to himself, ¡°Ain¡¯t this soul strength measuring doohickey¡­¡±

    ¡°A fucking machine from a carnival?!¡±

 Chapter 124: Manifestation

    Chapter 124: Manifestation

    Within the Area 52 Inheritance.

    ¡°The mechanics of the third trial is simple. The inheritor must manifest their soul strength into a tangible object and use it to hit the stone te as hard as possible. With that, the soul strength of the inheritor shall be measured. A soul strength value of 10 is enough to pass, and a soul strength value of 50 is enough to fully reap the rewards of the third trial,¡± the monotonous voice from the inheritance resounded throughout therge stone room Aurus was in. As Aurus listened to the instructions of the monotonous voice, he could not help but look at the tower of stone that transformed in front his very sense of vision.

    This stone tower looked like a simple tower at first, but its base extended towards where Aurus was, creating a thin te out of stone. As for the main portion of the tower, modestly sized cavities started to form along the bottom up to the top of the tower, being filled with a dim sort of light instead.

    Once he got a clear look at the finished tower, as well as cross-reference it with the instructions given by the monotonous voice, Aurus finally knew what it looked like.

    ¡°How did a machine from the fucking carnival get here?¡± Aurus could not help but curse as he let out a sigh,ing closer to the stone te.

    Of course, he was not unfamiliar with the mechanics of these types of machines. In his previous life, these things were strength measuring machines in a way as it measured how much force you can output. Normally, the ones in charge of the machine would make sure you would deal the least amount of force as possible in order to earn a buck, but in this world, there was no such thing it seemed.

    ¡°So I have to manifest my soul strength and use it to hit the stone te?¡± Aurus muttered to himself and pondered for a bit. He thought about thinking very hard of an object that dealt a lot of force, but he felt that imagination was different from manifestation¡­or so he thought.

    ¡°In order to manifest soul strength, one must visualize their own soul leaving the body, creating a vessel of its own to shield itself from the world around it. Once it has created its own vessel, one can now use said vessel and transform it into any shape one likes.¡± As if the monotonous voice was reading his mind, it resounded throughout the room, telling Aurus how to manifest his soul strength.

    ¡°Please do note that the inheritor has three tries in this trial. Only the highest value recorded would be the basis for the inheritor¡¯s reward,¡± the monotonous voice continued. Rather than giving Aurus tension, it instead gave him a sense of relief as he knew that he didn¡¯t just have a single shot on this trial.

    ¡°Whew.¡± Aurus let out a breath of relief as he decided to fly a modest distance away from the tower, wanting to practice his manifestation of soul strength first.

    ¡°This area seems to be good.¡± After hovering for a few dozen meters, Aurus looked at his surroundings and nodded to himself. It was just the right amount of empty. ¡°And so, let us start manifesting!¡±

    At the very next instant, Aurus closed his sense of vision, trying to connect with his soul. Well¡­gain greater control of his soul anyway. He was the pilot of the soul, and he was the soul at the same time, but he can only control a small amount subconsciously at a given time.

    Nheless, with arduous effort, he was able to fully grasp his soul, urging it to leave his body and form a vessel that could withstand the harsh outside surroundings.

    Whoosh!

    Like a gust of wind, Aurus¡¯ soul became visible to the naked eye, giving off a faint light that was spherical in shape. It was not even corporeal in the slightest, but it was a start.

    While still controlling his soul, Aurus noticed that he couldn¡¯t move his body due to the fact his whole soul was removed from his body. He beckoned a small part of the soul toe back to his body and connect with the greater portion, allowing him to move his body and his soul vessel at the same time.

    He then started to gradually get closer to the stone tower, getting a feel for how solid his soul vessel was. While doing so, he could not help but sigh. ¡°Although I¡¯m able to make my soul leave my body, I can¡¯t really make it take a corporeal form.¡±

    A few secondster, Aurus was already in front of the stone tower, with arge white orb hovering over his body. He could not help but look at the stone tower with slight nervousness. He did not know why, but the stone tower somewhat intimidated him.

    Eventually, he was able to calm himself down, staring at the soul vessel he made and the stone te interchangeably. After a few seconds of doing such, Aurus shouted, ¡°Ah, fuck it!¡± and urged therge white orb to m onto the stone te.

    Wham!

    Contrary to his expectations, therge white orb was actually able to output a decent amount of force on the stone te, making it dip down as a few cavities of light radiated a brighter light.

    This situation somewhat shocked Aurus as he knew that his vessel was not very sturdy at all. He then pondered over the reason for a bit and asked himself, ¡°Is it because of my Soul Power?¡±

    Thinking about it more and more, he could only conclude that that was the case, deciding to not pursue it any further as he was not an expert in the topic of souls.

    Ding!

    A few secondster, the monotonous voice resounded throughout the room, letting Aurus know about the results of his first test on the stone te.

    ¡°The inheritor has hit the stone te for the first time. The inheritor has achieved a soul strength of 57. The inheritor still has two more tries.¡±

    ¡°57?¡± Aurus could not help but click his tongue¡­well, nonexistent tongue. A soul strength of 57 was basically one-third of his full soul power, which was 188. If he could only use that much soul power when his soul was outside, wouldn¡¯t it be a disadvantage for him in the long run?

    And so, Aurus tried again. This time, he willed the soul vessel to condense itself, making the white orb shrink a few degrees, while its light intensified by a few degrees as well. At this point, Aurus felt that the white orb he made had a bit of substance and heft into it, giving him a bit more confidence in his second trial.

    Wham!

    As he willed the white orb to hit the stone te this time, a crashing sound resounded throughout the room, albeit very faint. Nheless, that made the tower light up more cavities of light than before, seemingly doublingpared to his first try.

    A few secondster, the monotonous voice resounded once more.

    ¡°The inheritor has hit the stone te for the second time. The inheritor has achieved a soul strength of 135. The inheritor still has one more try.¡±

    Seeing a great improvement as to how much soul strength he could exert in the real world, Aurus was somewhat excited. He looked at the shape of the soul vessel for a bit and thought that a ball hitting a t surface like a stone te would be detrimental to his final score.

    Hence, with the feeling he got as he condensed the white orb into a denser white orb, he willed the soul vessel to change its shape, turning from an orb into a white pir of sorts. To be honest, it could be described as a glistening white pestle rather than a white pir.

    Nheless, it would allow Aurus¡¯ soul strength toe out more in hitting the stone te. Raising the white pestle up high with hismand, he urged the pestle to m on the stone te very hard, causing a rumble to ur.

    Rumble¡­

    Crash!

    As that happened, the stone te started to crack a bit, but was able to withstand the force hidden behind the white pestle, making almost every cavity of light intensify in its radiance afterwards.

    Of course, without missing a beat, the monotonous voice of the inheritance resounded once more, revealing Aurus¡¯ final result.

    ¡°The inheritor has hit the stone te for the third time. The inheritor has achieved a soul strength of 211. The inheritor has cleared the third trial without any hups.¡±

    ¡°211¡­¡± After hearing this numbere from the monotonous voice, Aurus felt intense shock course through his body as he thought up of a possible conclusion as to why the value exceeded his current soul power.

    ¡°That¡¯s impossible. Perhaps 2 points of soul strength is equal to 1 point of soul power,¡± Aurus tried to calm himself down as he thought of this conclusion. Although he was very excited for the reward, the shock of achieving a number greater than his current soul power somewhat befuddled his mind. Around 30 secondster, he was back to his rational and calm self, sighing as he muttered, ¡°If that were the case, I have only exerted over 100 points of soul power. Then again, that¡¯s enough to clear the trial but¡­¡±

    At this moment in time, Aurus had ideas of using his soul as a supportive attack, or even a main attack that could allow him to fight while conjuring his spells. With this thought in mind, he decided that he would make soul attacks a low priority for now, he still had to level up his skills, raise his level to max level, raise his allies to max level, as well as work on the three other systems he had. Oh wait, he was already max level after all the killing he had done.

    ¡°I¡¯ll just devise a n regarding my methods of getting stronger after I leave the inheritance,¡± Aurus said to himself as the monotonous voice resounded for the veryst time.

    ¡°The inheritor has cleared the third trial, the Trial of Soul Strength, with flying colors, exceeding the amount needed to fully reap the rewards by a few times. Due to this, the reward and the key given to the inheritor shall be boosted in order to be equivalent to the effort shown by the inheritor.¡±

    ¡°Oh? So the key isn¡¯t the only reward?¡± Aurus asked himself. No matter what reward it was, it was better than only getting the key from the inheritance.

    ¡°The inheritor¡¯s reward for the final trial shall be a great skill book regarding the maniption of the wielder¡¯s soul, as well as a Gold grade key of the inheritance, deeming the inheritor as a 1st ss Ruler Candidate.¡±

    ¡°Not only that, after taking every trial cleared by the inheritor into consideration, the inheritor shall also receive¡­¡±

    ¡°A Comprehension Leaf of the Transcending grade.¡±

    Hearing the rewards that he would get for clearing the trial made Aurus at a loss for words. But when he heard about the Comprehension Leaf being mentioned, he could not help but say, ¡°Ah.¡±

    ¡°I totally forgot about the Comprehension Leaf.¡±

 Chapter 125: A Frosty Reunion (Sidestory)

    Chapter 125: A Frosty Reunion (Sidestory)

    Author¡¯s Note: This is a chapter that isn¡¯t really crucial to the story. You can skip it altogether, or read it all the same. Anyways, take it as a gift from me to you this Christmas (2019), as well as an apology from me to you.

    ________

    After finishing the inheritance, Aurus was greatly ecstatic with what he had received, especially the Gold Key as well as the Trascending grade Comprehension Leaf. He was greatly sure that he would use the Comprehension Leaf in an instant, while he would grind the heck out of his skills and other systems to be eligible for the Ruler position.

    Whoosh!

    In an instant, Aurus was transported out of the inheritance, bringing him back to the front of the gray magic circle. With this sight covering his surroundings, Aurus knew that he had sessfully finished the inheritance, leaving the inheritance multiple degrees stronger than before.

    Just as he was about to hover off back to the alliance base, Aurus could not help but notice a magic circle that seemed to scream out ¡®Aurus,e and check me out¡¯ at him. Aurus thought about the reason as to why a magic circle was here other than the gray magic circle. It took him a few seconds to conclude that Herellia had left the inheritance before him, heading back to the alliance first. It was understandable as she was the leader.

    Since that was the conclusion he came to, Aurus did not hesitate onto infusing a bit of his SP into the magic circle. He had a hunch that it was a magic circle that had Herellia¡¯s message stored in it. Once he felt an influx of information entering his mind, he knew for sure that he was right.

    ¡®Hey Aurus, congrattions on exiting the inheritance!¡¯ Herellia¡¯s voice could be heard resounding throughout his mind. ¡®I wonder what rewards you¡¯ve gotten from the inheritance? Did you get a Comprehension Leaf? If so, is it the Soaring or the Unshrouding grade?¡¯

    After hearing Herellia¡¯s question in his mind, he could not help but chuckle. If she knew that he had received a Transcending grade Comprehension Leaf, she would definitely be extremely envious of Aurus.

    ¡®Anyways, I decided to leave you alone here as you know very well that I¡¯m the leader of the alliance. I¡¯m sure you¡¯ll understand that, right?¡¯

    ¡°Of course I do,¡± Aurus muttered to himself with a slightly cheerful aura about him.

    ¡®Make sure to greet me once you get back, I got something in store for you! Have a safe trip back!¡¯

    With thesest few statements, Herellia¡¯s message was over, allowing Aurus to finally leave the abandoned mineshaft as he morphed into a small and inconspicuous pebble, which allowed him to exit the town. Not long after, he morphed back into his wooden sculpture self, using all of his movement buffs and skill in order to get back to the alliance as fast as possible.

    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!

    As he zoomed his way back to the alliance, he noticed small motes of white particles slowly falling down from the sky. It was not much of a hindrance, but looking at the white particles awakened a memory in Aurus¡¯ mind.

    ¡°Snow?¡± Aurus could not help but ask himself. To him, what else could it be? Snow was something he was very familiar with, especially in his previous life. As he looked at the white particles fall down, Aurus could not help but reminisce the good memories he had in his previous life.

    Memories of him opening gifts as he and his family listened to festive music and ate food together, simr types of memories started to gush out, filling him with a special feeling. A feeling of emptiness.

    ¡°Now that I think about it, I haven¡¯t really celebrated Christmas with them these past few years, huh¡­¡± As this thought surfaced his mind, he could not help but sigh.

    For 9 years of his life, Aurus had a mother and a father that loved him oh so much. The reason as to why they got a divorce on his 10th birthday was vague to him, but that meant that his Christmas was no longer happy like before. He lived with his mother, who was always at work, barely having enough time to even show concern for him. As for his father, he married another woman, rarely sending greetings or gifts to him.

    As he continued to reminisce, this feeling of emptiness turned into a stronger feeling. A feeling¡­

    Of longing.

    He longed for the warmth and happiness of his previous life in his early years, a happiness he could no longer seek for he had already reincarnated into another life.

    With this thought, he had a great urge to cry, but no tears flowed down his face as he was after all, a wooden sculpture. Nheless, intense feelings of sadness consumed his mind as he made it back to the alliance an hour after he left the inheritance.

    ¡­

    Celestial ne, Kurohana¡¯s ne.

    ¡°Ain¡¯t this a bad thing? If he¡¯s always glum, then won¡¯t he be a worse catalyst than any other material I could have used for my weapon?¡±

    Within the big ass cube of white, Kurohana looked through the orb and noticed Aurus¡¯ emotions, making her slightly frown. Of course, as a Greater Goddess, how could she not have the ability to perceive a being¡¯s emotions? Although she had split most of her power off to help Nix fight against the demons, she could still do a basic thing like this.

    ¡°Let me see the reason for his depression, hum hum hum~¡± Deciding to remove Aurus¡¯ depression, Kurohana shot out a thread of divine energy from her finger towards Aurus, retrieving it an instantter. She easily looked through the information imbued in the divine energy she shot, making her lightly smile.

    ¡°Oh~ So that¡¯s what it was. No problem~¡± Kurohana could not help but lightly chuckle after seeing that it was a simple problem to solve. Nheless, her power wascking to fully solve the problem Aurus had, hence she called for Shirohana through her mind.

    ¡°Hey Shirohana.¡±

    ¡°Yes, Master? Why did you call me? I¡¯m currently traversing through the Celestial ne, heading to where Hinari and Hodazuka are.¡±

    ¡°Could you let me borrow around 15% of my power? I¡¯m going to need for a bit.¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t mind, Master, but¡­where are you going to use it?¡±

    With a smile nted on her face, she replied, ¡°You¡¯re me. You know what I¡¯m doing.¡±

    ¡­

    Tempest Cliff, Tempest Branch Alliance.

    Whoosh!

    Aurusnded in the center of therge hall that served as the entrance to the alliance base. What he expected was the hall being devoid of other members due to them doing their own stuff, well¡­some snow as well because the mouth of the entrance isrge. Contrary to his expectations, what greeted him was all of the alliance members inside therge hall, conversing and having fun with one another.

    ¡°Wh-what¡­¡± As he looked at his surroundings, Aurus became speechless as he did not experience such an event like this before other than his induction as an Executive level member.

    ¡°Oh! Aurus is here!¡± While Aurus was still dumbfounded as to what was happening, a member of the alliance could not help but him and shout out, alerting the others of Aurus¡¯ presence.

    ¡°Eh? Aurus is actually here? I thought he wouldn¡¯t be back until after the event!¡±

    ¡°Aurus is here! Alright, the event is gonna be more fun this way!¡±

    Not long after the first one shouted, the hall started to be filled with mor as arge branch covered in red engravings gradually make its way towards Aurus, saying in a cheerful voice, ¡°Aurus! You¡¯re back!¡±

    ¡°Huh?¡± Hearing this voice, Aurus turned his field of vision to look at the direction of the origin of the sound, finding Herellia who had an extremely cheerful aura around her.

    ¡°Herellia, can you tell me what¡¯s happening?¡± After finding Herellia, he urged her to head towards a more quiet corner, asking the question not long after.

    ¡°Oh this? It¡¯s normal that a neer like you wouldn¡¯t know of it,¡± Herellia chuckled as she replied. ¡°Every time frozen water particles fall in the Tempest Cliff, our alliance holds something called the Frost Reunion.¡±

    ¡°We set aside all of the things we were doing and gather around, catching up with others as we bond and have fun!¡±

    ¡°Speaking of which¡­¡± As Herellia said this, she extended a blood red tendril upwards and then smacked it onto Aurus, making him fly.

    ¡°I signed you on the Great Magic event! Don¡¯t let me down!¡±

    ¡°Waaahhh!¡± Flying through therge hall, Aurus tried to control his descent, hastily activating his hover skill as arge gray branch shouted his name.

    ¡°Hey Aurus! Come down here! You¡¯re up next on the Great Magic event!¡±

    ¡°Eh?¡± Perplexed as to what the event was, Aurus nheless headed to where therge gray branch was.

    ¡°What do I do in this event?¡± Aurus asked as it was his first time.

    ¡°You just have to show your shiest magic spell in front of everyone! The shiest magic spell out of all the participants will win something special!¡± Therge white branchughed.

    ¡°shiest as possible huh¡­¡± Aurus could not help but chuckle as he willed his soul toe out of his body, creating a soul vessel in the shape of an orb not long after.

    The orb elicited multiple oohs and aahs from the audience, but Aurus knew that he was not done. He did not care whether he would be bombarded by Herellia with questions after this as he had already limated to the atmosphere of the event the alliance had. His previous feeling of longing had disappeared, being reced instead with joy!

    Whoosh!

    In an instant, the orb transformed into flowers, which turned into multiple des that shot up towards the ceiling, only to explode like fireworks in front of everyone. Of course, this sight made everyone cheer and awe in wonder as to what Aurus had done.

    As for Aurus, after showing his soul vessel trick, he could not help but shout, ¡°Let¡¯s have fun with the event!¡±

    As if it was a reflex action, the other Inanimates looked at him and replied, ¡°Yeah!!!¡±

    ¡­

    The Frost Reunion continued from when Aurus arrived till the moon that hovered over the world of Erudinia arose. Only then did the Inanimates stop and continue on with their lives. If they did not have this sort of rule set, they would definitely have fun for multiple days, or heck, even weeks.

    As for Aurus, he went to the Life and Will Fountain, wanting to stay there for a bit as to calm his mind down from the excitement he had all day.

    ¡°It was fun,¡± Aurus muttered to himself as his aura radiated happiness. Unfortunately, this aura was gradually reced with sadness, then depression. ¡°Haah¡­if only I could relive that moment, then everything would be great.¡±

    Whoosh!

    As if his wishes were heard, his field of vision went full ck as his consciousness was transported to another ce without him knowing. To him, he felt that multiple years had passed, but in actuality¡­

    Only an instant had passed.

    Once he was transported to another ce, his field of vision was still ck, but gradually gained light as he looked around his new surroundings.

    ¡°Where¡­am I?¡± Aurus could not help but ask himself as more light entered his eyes. At the very moment every possible mote of light entered his eyes, he could not help but gasp as he took in a deep breath, making sure that the sight surrounding him was not false.

    ¡°Is this¡­my old home?¡± Aurus could not believe what he was seeing. He turned his head to look down, and was shocked to see that his body was that of his previous life, not his wooden sculpture form.

    ¡°Am I¡­¡± Realizing what he was in, Aurus could not help but cover his mouth with his hands as tears gradually flowed from his eyes.

    ¡°Am I¡­dreaming?¡±

    ¡°Hey Aurus,e over here!¡± As tears flowed from his eyes, a thick yet amicable voice resounded throughout the room he was at, calling from him.

    Hearing this voice, Aurus hastily wiped his tears away as he ran to where the voice was, replying with, ¡°Coming, Dad!¡±

    Tap! Tap! Tap!

    It only took a while for Aurus to run towards where his dad was, being greeted with a table filled to the brim with food, as well as his dad and his mom sitting near the table, smiling.

    ¡°What took you so long, dear?¡± Seeing Aurus run towards the table, his mom smiled and asked him.

    ¡°I just had something going on,¡± Aurus replied with a smile as he took a seat beside his mother and father.

    ¡°Anyways, let¡¯s eat!¡±

    ¡­

    And so, Aurus and his parents ate with great gusto as they chatted the time away, singing their hearts out, as well as opening gifts they received from Aurus¡¯ rtives.

    In the end, Aurus could not help but be sleepy, telling his parents that he was going to sleep. From this, the two looked at each other and smiled before looking at Aurus.

    ¡°Have a good sleep, son,¡± his dad said.

    ¡°Merry Christmas!¡± his mom said afterwards.

    After hearing these wordse out of his parents¡¯ mouths, tears started to flow out of his eyes once more as he walked towards his room.

    ¡°Un.¡±

    ¡°Merry Christmas.¡±

 Chapter 126: Stick and Flux Unify

    Chapter 126: Stick and Flux Unify

    Within the Area 52 Inheritance.

    After announcing the rewards Aurus was going to get after finishing the whole inheritance, three rays of light appeared a modest distance away from where Aurus was, gradually bringing down three items from the ceiling.

    Question is, where did these itemse from? Well these items passed through a rift opened on the ceiling, falling down through the trajectory of the rays of light.

    Thud.

    ng.

    Swish.

    Three different fall sounds, pertaining to the three items Aurus has received. He went closer to the three items after the rays of light disappeared from the room, and examined them not long after.

    In order from left to right, Aurus was looking a slightly tattered book filled with a mysterious yet powerful aura, an intricately carved key that glistened gold under some sort of light, and a dead looking leaf that seemed to be no different from leaves you can find in a forest.

    Wait, that doesn¡¯t sound right.

    Nheless, Aurus looked at these three times with expectation and glee, waiting to see what possibilities would unfold with these items.

    He used his SP to create a tendril out of energy as it extended towards the dead looking leaf on the right. He held it up high to get a better look at it, saying, ¡°This looks no different from a normal leaf, to be honest.¡±

    Bang!

    As he said this, an explosion sound urred near where the leaf was all of a sudden. To be more exact, the explosion sound originated from the leaf.

    As if it was awakened by Aurus¡¯ SP, the leaf gradually disintegrated into ash that coursed through the tendril of SP Aurus created, before circting throughout his body not long after.

    Whoosh!

    At the very instant the leaf ash circted through his body, he felt like he was brought tens of thousands of meters up into the sky, allowing him to look at the whole world from a perspective he couldn¡¯t before. He could also see the moons ands orbiting the world he originated from, broadening his horizons by a great degree. Eventually, the hallucination of sorts came to an end, returning Aurus to where he was, the big and boring stone room.

    ¡°That¡­¡± It took a while for Aurus to recover from his loss of words, wanting to experience the feeling once again.

    ¡°That was amazing.¡±

    After absorbing the Transcending Comprehension Leaf, Aurus now had the thought of wanting to be a human as possible, as he knew that bing a human would allow him to experience such a feeling once more.

    ¡°When I leave the inheritance, I¡¯ll definitely make that clone, just as Kevin warned me to,¡± Aurus muttered to himself.

    He did not know why he always forgot to make a clone of himself, but he was going to make sure that this time, he would never forget to make it.

    Ding!

    ¡°Oh?¡± Just as he was about to move towards the skill book, a notification sound resounded from the system, piquing his interest. As he opened his notification screen and looked at thest notification that popped up, he could not help but squeal in excitement for a bit before muttering to himself, ¡°Now what skill should I pick~?¡±

    ¡®The user has absorbed a Transcending grade Comprehension Leaf, increasing the user¡¯s skill experience acquisition rate by 14 times. Current skill experience acquisition rate: 15x¡¯

    ¡®Due to the special energy hidden within the Comprehension Leaf, the user can now choose any skill he wishes to max out in an instant.¡¯

    For a bit, he thought about maxing his Spell Core or his Spirit Sword skill as both skills were his main sources of damage towards the enemies he fought. But as he thought about it even more, he decided to not choose them as he already a level of attack power that could rival X-grade Inanimates. Sure, he could max his offensive skills out and give him the power to fight against Animates, but when would he have a chance to?

    He also had the thought of maxing out his movement skills, but he was already moving incredibly fast in Inanimate terms. He decided to not max them out as well.

    ¡°If offensive skills and movement skills are out of the question, what should I max out?¡± Aurus was at a crossroads. ¡°I could go and use the energy to max out my defensive skill, but it¡¯s just at B-grade, a big waste of energy.¡±

    ¡°Where should I put it¡­¡±

    And that¡¯s when it hit him.

    ¡°Since I want to experience that feeling again¡­¡±

    ¡°System, use the energy to max out [Transcendent Vitality Anima Creation].¡±

    Ding!

    ¡®The special energy has been allocated to [Transcendent Vitality Anima Creation].¡¯

    ¡®[Transcendent Vitality Anima Creation] has reached the MAX level.¡¯

    ¡®[Transcendent Vitality Anima Creation] has met the necessary requirements and is ready to evolve. The skill has also met special requirements needed to evolve to a greater level.¡¯

    Looking at the notifications that popped up on his notification screen, Aurus could not help but smile from within and say, ¡°Hm. That was easier than I thought.¡±

    As for the reason why Aurus allocated the energy to his Anima Creation skill, he had already stated so a few sentences ago. He wanted to experience the feeling of seeing everything one more time. Well that and the warning given to him by Kevin, but the feeling was first priority to him¡­for some reason.

    He read the notifications one more time and noticed that something was added to the previous line. ¡°Hm? Special requirements have been met? I wonder what it could be?¡±

    ¡°Evolve [Transcendent Vitality Anima Creation]!¡±

    Without hesitation, Aurusmanded the system to evolve his Anima Creation skill, his skill that gave him the tons of SP he could use at anytime.

    Ding!

    ________

    Please select the skill that [Transcendent Vitality Anima Creation] will evolve into:

    [Miraculous Wheel of Life]

    [Myriad Anima Formation]

    [Incessant Sphere of Spirit]

    [Stick-Flux Unification (Special)]

    ________

    Aurus looked at the names alone, and noticed that only one path had the word Flux on it. ¡°Wait a second, does that mean that the requirement for this special evolution is unlocking Flux?¡±

    ¡°Ain¡¯t that a very stringent requirement,¡± Aurus muttered to himself. Nheless, he was able to achieve such a requirement. He skimmed through the first three skills and noticed that they did not really give anything special, except for their shape.

    The first skill allowed him to make a wheel of SP behind him, the second skill allowed him to make a miniature soldier formation out of SP, and the third skill allowed him to make a big ass sphere out of SP. Mind you, these were all improvements from his current situation, where multiple motes of Anima extended out of his body.

    ¡°Now, let¡¯s see what the fourth skill can give,¡± Aurus said to himself. He had a hunch that he was going to pick this evolution path, no matter what.

    Ding!

    ________

    [Stick-Flux Unification (Special)] (C-grade Transcendent)

    Stick Points (SP), the unit of energy used by multiple stick species to do the impossible. Flux, the unit of energy used by those who could perceive the particles connecting their bodies to create equipment and also do the impossible. Through an esoteric method, the two can be fused together, allowing the user to use Flux as SP, and SP as Flux. This in turn would allow the user to create great equipment as well as use great abilities that were normally impossible for the user to cast.

    > Flux and SP shall be united as one energy, Flux Points (FP)

    > As Flux exists all over the user¡¯s body, the user¡¯s body is the vessel for Flux Points

    > Flux and SP is unified, increasing performance of crafted equipment by 20%

    > Flux and SP is unified, increasing performance of active skills by 20%

    ________

    ¡°Knew it.¡± Aurus could not help but chuckle. ¡°I¡¯m definitely gonna pick this one.¡±

    And with him clicking on the confirmation button, the days of Aurus lugging around multiple Anima particles was no longer a thing. He would now look like a normal wooden sculpture that glowed a faint green light.

    Ding!

    ¡®[Transcendent Vitality Anima Creation] has been upgraded to [Stick-Flux Unification (Special)].¡¯

    With him evolving one of the two SP vessel skills to Transcendent grade, he moved onto the skill book that the inheritance gave him and learned it without hesitation.

    Ding!

    ¡®You have learned the hybrid species skill [Soul Maniption].¡¯

    After learning the skill, he then skimmed over the description of the skill, giving him an idea as to what the skill allowed him to do.

    ¡°So this skill is a passive and an active skill at the same time, allowing me to manipte my soul with less difficulty and more expertise. It also strengthens my soul¡¯s connection with my body, I don¡¯t know what that means though.¡±

    Andstly, Aurus focused on the gold key that remained on the floor of the stone room. He looked at it for a bit before picking it up with a tendril made out of his newly made Flux Points.

    ¡°This is a gold key of the inheritance. Is there any difference from the normal type of keys given by the inheritance? I remember the inheritance talking about a 1st ss Ruler Candidate?¡±

    Ring¡­

    As the golden key was held up in midair, it started to vibrate as a ringing sound resounded out of it, a loud ringing sound at that. The ringing sound somewhat caught Aurus off guard, as well as made him slightly deaf due to the loudness of the sound, but Aurus endured it, wondering what was going to happen next.

    The ringing soundsted for a few minutes, gradually quieting down as a voice filled with the majesty and grace of an emperor reverberated throughout the room Aurus was in.

    ¡°Nothing to fear candidate, this is just the key recognizing your soul for the first time,¡± the majestic voice said to Aurus, only to make Aurus be startled for a bit. It took Aurus a short while to calm down, focusing on the words said by the majestic voice.

    ¡°The key that you¡¯re holding up will allow you to traverse a special path of power, only if you ascend from the status of candidacy.¡±

    ¡°Now what kind of candidacy, you might ask? Well, it could only be the candidacy of a Ruler! There are different levels as to how close you are to bing a bona fide Ruler, with a normal Ruler Candidate being the lowest level, and a 1st ss Ruler Candidate being the highest level. You¡¯re a 1st ss Ruler Candidate!¡±

    ¡°And now, choose what path you shall take, and be a Ruler in that path!¡±

    With that, the majestic voice stop talking, allowing Aurus to process what the voice had said. After a while, Aurus asked himself.

    ¡°Ruler¡­¡±

    ¡°Measuring stick?¡±

    ________

    A/N: Hey there. Ever wanted to read a novel made by me that¡¯s not about a stick? Then go and read my new novel ¡°Who Said A Mosquito Can¡¯t Cultivate?¡±

    I made this novel for WPC#96, please help me win

 Chapter 127: Rank 3

    Chapter 127: Rank 3

    While Aurus was trying to figure out the special purpose of the gold key and what being a Ruler entailed, another incident was taking ce within a ce named the Great Tempest Cliff.

    The incident wherein a Rank 2 being was fighting against a Rank 4 being.

    Bang!

    At the sound of this collision, a man wielding an exquisitely crafted de of green color blocked the attack from a beast that seemed to be tens of times farrger than the man was.

    This man was none other than Vanadir, fighting against the Rank 4 Beast Dane warned him against to not fight.

    With a grin nted on his face, Vanadir looked at the beast in front of him as he gripped on his de¡¯s handle even tighter than before. ¡°A Rank 4 Beast like this is actually nothi¡ªwoah!¡±

    As he was about to mock the beast forcking the strength to fight against a measly Rank 2 ss Wielder like him, the beast exerted more force behind its attack, forcing Vanadir to take many steps backward just tobat against the force and find his footing once more.

    Although Vanadir knew he was going to be hurt from this, or worst case scenario, severely injured, he could not help but chuckle at this situation as he removed his de from the front of the beast as he sidestepped to the left, allowing the beast¡¯s remaining force to pass through as it hit a nearby tree.

    Bang!

    Even though the beast tried to forcibly stop itself from moving further, it still crashed through multiple times, allowing Vanadir to take a breather as he looked at Dane, who was in deep concentration, chanting a spell.

    ¡°Hey Dane, is the spell ready?¡± Vanadir asked loudly as he stretched his body for a bit. He then went into a battle stance behind where the beast was.

    Just because Dane was in deep concentration, that did not mean that he could not respond to Vanadir¡¯s question. Without missing a beat, he responded, ¡°The debuff spell is¡­now¡­done!¡±

    Fwoom!

    At that very instant, arge magic circle that had fouryers on magic on it manifested a modest distance away from Dane¡¯s palms, allowing him to aim the spell towards the beast.

    Rumble¡­

    But just as Dane was about to shoot the spell out, the beast recovered from its crash, turned around, and looked at Vanadir, charging once more.

    In that split second, Vanadir shouted towards Dane as he looked at the beast, ¡°On my signal, shoot the spell on the beast!¡±

    Dane nodded towards Vanadir¡¯smand, eliciting a small smile on Vanadir¡¯s face. He then turned serious as his legs bent down towards an angle parallel to the ground.

    He rose his de up into the air and muttered to himself, ¡°Dane did say that this de held a trump card I could use.¡±

    ¡°There¡¯s no better time to get a taste of it other than¡­¡±

    ¡°Now!¡±

    Fwoom!

    As if Vanadir¡¯s thoughts could control the de¡¯s form, the length of the de extended by a meter as a tangible green aura started to appear around the de, giving off an aura that did not lose out to the beast¡¯s.

    ¡°Ignition mode!¡±

    ¡°[Magnus Tempestria: Dragon¡¯s Fang]!¡±

    At the moment Vanadir¡¯s de became longer, the distance between the beast and Vanadir only amounted to a few meters, prompting him to jump up a few meters in the air as he looked at Dane.

    ¡°Now!¡±

    Bang!

    Not long after, a purple bolt was shot towards the beast, forcibly halting the beast¡¯s charge as multiple thick chains of a deep purple color gradually covered the beast, stopping it from moving anywhere else.

    ¡°4th Circle! Grand Valley Shackles!¡±

    Thud!

    As if the beast lost all of the power that it had umted throughout the charge, the beast fell down on the floor t with a thud, staring at Vanadir, who was in midair, with intense rage.

    ¡®How dare these humans!¡¯ This thought could not help but enter its mind. Nheless, it seemed that this was its fate.

    As Vanadir gradually fell down from midair, he adjusted how he held the sword, using a reverse handgrip as he raised the sword up high, umting a ton of Wind energy particles around the de in the process.

    He then changed the weight distribution of his body, allowing him to umte more speed with his fall, aiming towards where the beast¡¯s life core was, or in other words, the heart.

    ¡°This is an all or nothing move!¡± Vanadir shouted.

    ¡°[Wind Dragon¡¯s Four Forms]¡­¡±

    ¡°[Dragon Severing the Earth]!¡±

    Bang!

    Just as he thought that he was about to pierce through the beast¡¯s abdomen, the beast gave off a sneer as it was still on the ground, casting a barrier that¡­

    Reflected all of the possible damage the beast could receive!

    Whoosh!

    At that very instant, Vanadir was sent flying upwards hundreds of meters above the air as multiplecerations appeared on his body. Not only that, the sound of bones cracking could also be heard resounding throughout the forest as his body was covered in blood in an instant.

    Seeing that both of their efforts were futile, Dane could not help but be angry at the beast, shouting, ¡°How dare you attack the Highness, you foul beast! You¡­must die!¡±

    While cursing the heck out of the beast, arge sphere of mana started to manifest above Dane¡¯s right palm, transforming into a blue spear of light not long after. But just as Dane was about to shoot the light spear at the beast, a voice very familiar to him shouted.

    ¡°Don¡¯t attack! I¡¯ll¡­do it!¡±

    Hearing this familiar yet soft voice, Dane could not help but look up at the sky with wonder, gazing at the bloodied figure with awe and respect.

    Although Vanadir took 100% of his power without any defensive measures, he could still fight!

    ¡°Dane! Buff me up as much as possible! I¡¯m gonna use the move one more time!¡±

    Rather than telling Vanadir that it was dangerous to fight any further, Dane instead nodded as he hurriedly dismantled his spear of light into multiple magic circles.

    ¡°Got it!¡±

    ¡°1st Circle! Blessing of the Wind!¡±

    ¡°1st Circle! Boar¡¯s Strength!¡±

    ¡°2nd Circle! Luck of the Shadow!¡±

    ¡°2nd Circle! Imprable Fortress!¡±

    ¡°2nd Circle! Grand Power Boost!¡±

    ¡°3rd Circle! Tempest Grace!¡±

    ¡°3rd Circle! Relentless Bloodthirst!¡±

    ¡°4th Circle! Arcana Blessing!¡±

    In that instant, multiple spells came out of Dane¡¯s mouth, heading towards Vanadir¡¯s body as the aura surrounding him intensified by multiple degrees. At the very end of Dane¡¯s buffing spree, Vanadir¡¯s aura was at a level that neared the beast¡¯s sealed aura!

    ¡°Here I go!¡± Vanadir shouted one more time.

    Whoosh!

    With the help of the buffs, Vanadir fell faster than before. Thankfully, he was hundreds of meters above the air instead of tens of meters, allowing him to gain more speed than his previous attack. As for the beast, it looked at the hastily falling Vanadir with a sneer on its face, waiting to use the reflective barrier one more time.

    Thankfully, this thought crossed Vanadir¡¯s mind, shouting to Dane, ¡°Dane! Seal the beast¡¯s abilities!¡±

    Hearing Vanadir¡¯s words, the beast was visibly shaken, turning its head to look at Dane, who casted a twoyered magic circle with a smile on his face.

    ¡°As you wish, Your Highness.¡±

    ¡°2nd Circle! Skill Seal!¡±

    Whoom!

    And just like that, the beast could not cast its reflective barrier anymore. It sighed within, muttering to itself.

    ¡°Well shit. Guess I¡¯m gonna die.¡±

    Swoosh!

    Vanadir gripped on his de tighter than before as he merged the de¡¯s aura with his own aura, intensifying the power behind the de by a great degree.

    With the distance between the beast and Vanadir being a few meters left, he shouted one more time, ¡°[Wind Dragon¡¯s Four Forms]!¡±

    ¡°[Dragon Severing the Earth: All or Nothing Version]!¡±

    Bang!

    Rather than Vanadir being flung away to who knows where, this time, the de sessfully pierced through the beast¡¯s abdomen, piercing through the heart as well.

    Well¡­too well, in fact.

    St!

    Thanks to the umted force behind the de, the de went even further through the heart, ending up on the other side of the abdomen as the entry point of the de was squashed as if a meteor fell on the beast¡¯s body.

    As for Vanadir, he could only gasp for air as he savored the feeling of killing a beast with his own two hands.

    And then, he closed his eyes.

    Whirr¡­

    As Dane wasing closer to Vanadir after seeing that the battle had finished, Dane saw a great amount of Wind energy particles manifesting around Vanadir¡¯s body all of a sudden, prompting him to watch and wait for the end result.

    A ton of Wind energy particles umted around Vanadir¡¯s body, transforming into all sorts of shapes. May it be animals, items, weapons, and whatnot, the Wind energy particles transformed into those shapes.

    In the end, the Wind energy particles transformed into a set of armor that covered Vanadir¡¯s body as it gradually dissipated. In exchange for the Wind energy armor dissipating, Vanadir¡¯s aura grew stronger and stronger, surpassing the level of aura a Rank 2 ss Wielder had.

    Bang!

    Bang!

    Bang!

    Not long after the Wind energy armor had fully dissipated, three stars made out of Wind energy particles appeared above Vanadir¡¯s head, making Dane smile with glee.

    ¡°The three star sign of royalty. He has done it, the Highness has finally done it,¡± Dane could not help but say.

    Eventually, the three stars disappeared above Vanadir¡¯s head just as he opened his eyes.

    Vanadir looked at his surroundings for a bit and noticed that everything felt the same while not feeling the same as well. It felt that he could see and peer far deeper than when he was a Rank 2 ss Wielder.

    He retrieved his de from the abdomen of the beast and shook off the blood on it before sheathing it. He then stood up and took in a breath of fresh air. While taking in a breath, he could hear Dane say, ¡°Congrattions, Your Highness for transitioning into a Rank 3 ss.¡±

    As for Vanadir, he could only look at Dane with a smile and scratch his head, replying with, ¡°It¡¯s not worthy of a congrattions. I just transitioned into a Rank 3 Adept Windwalker, that¡¯s all.¡±

    ¡°Nevertheless¡­¡± Vanadir looked far beyond the horizon, muttering to himself.

    ¡°I can finally fight for the throne properly.¡±

 Chapter 128: The Void

    Chapter 128: The Void

    While Vanadir was savoring the feeling of finally transitioning into a Rank 3 ss, allowing him to have more power in fighting for the position of the throne, an Inanimate being was currently listening to an exnation regarding a position quite simr one would get as they are throned.

    Within the Area 52 Inheritance.

    ¡°With the key you are holding, you shall be opened to another path towards great power, the path of bing a Ruler!¡± a majestic voice resounded throughout the room where Aurus was.

    ¡°Of course, you don¡¯t be a Ruler in an instant, the key is only one step forward to bing a Ruler, allowing you to be recognized by the inheritance and regard you as a Ruler candidate.¡±

    ¡°But the keys have different levels as well, pertaining to the rank of candidacy you have before fully starting the path of a Ruler. A white key gives you the title of a Lesser Ruler candidate, while a gold key givss you the title of a 1st ss Ruler candidate!¡±

    ¡°Trust me on this inheritor, once you be a Ruler, you won¡¯t regret the choice!¡±

    After the majestic voice was finished with its monologue, Aurus fell into silence, absorbing all of the information given by the voice, as well as organizing them in a way where he could understand what obtaining the gold key entailed in a clearer manner.

    ¡°So this key I¡¯m holding with my energy tendril is a key that would allow me to ess a path towards ultimate power called a Ruler,¡± Aurus said to himself as he continued to process the information.

    ¡°Ruler¡­measuring stick?¡± As he became fixated around the word ¡®Ruler¡¯, he could not help but think bing a Ruler is just bing a measuring stick. He had the idea that bing a longer ruler would elicit greater power or something.

    Eventually, he thought of the word as other than a measuring stick,ing to the question, ¡°What is a Ruler, to be exact?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m d you asked, Inheritor,¡± the majestic voice surprisingly responded to Aurus¡¯ question.

    ¡°Holy fuck, the inheritance answered.¡± Aurus was visibly startled¡­if standing still in ce was the act of being startled.

    ¡°There¡¯s nothing wrong with asking questions about this, Inheritor,¡± the majestic voice continued to talk as it noticed that Aurus did not expect for it to talk back. ¡°Unlike this inheritance, us Rulers are still alive and well, allowing us to dynamically answer each and every question you might ask.¡±

    ¡°Anyways, to answer your question, a Ruler is a being that stands above other beings in their own field. In other words, they rule above everyone else in the same field, which gives them the title of Rulers.¡±

    ¡°There are Rulers of a craft, Rulers of a weapon, Rulers of an element, and so on, and so forth,¡± the majestic voice exined to Aurus. ¡°Speaking of which, I¡¯m the Inheritance Ruler, and this isn¡¯t the only inheritance in this ne that gives inheritors a chance to be a Ruler.¡±

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡± Aurus processed the given information for a few seconds before replying with a question. ¡°Can an inheritor choose not to be a Ruler?¡±

    ¡°Oh?¡± The majestic voice could not help but chuckle. ¡°You¡¯re the first one to ask such a question, but yes. If the inheritor does not really want to be a Ruler, perhaps for reasons such as finding a better title of power like a Dominator or Overseer, then one can reject.¡±

    ¡°But they do not know that bing a Ruler first would allow them to be a Dominator or Overseer far faster than not epting the title.¡± As the Inheritance Ruler answered Aurus¡¯ question, a hint of killing intent could be felting from the voice, making Aurus feel pressured.

    Nheless, with a Soul Power of 188, Aurus was able to endure such pressure, asking another question. ¡°Does having a higher ranked key mean anything? I have a golden key right here and I have a feeling that it won¡¯t really do much if it only gives you a chance to be a Ruler.¡±

    ¡°A golden key, eh?¡± The Inheritance Ruler chuckled, replying with, ¡°For key holders of a lower rank, say iron and bronze key holders, they must go through a trial first before bing a bona fide Ruler. Not only that, they¡¯ll have to go through multiple steps first called the Rise of Nobility to truly be a Ruler.¡±

    ¡°As for you, inheritor, you can skip all of these and choose a Ruler of your liking, not needing you to go a trial and the Rise of Nobility. Any ruler will ept you with open arms, but they¡¯ll still guide you along the way as there are ranks among Rulers.¡±

    ¡°Ranks? What kind of ranks?¡± Aurus could not help but ask after the Inheritance Ruler mentioned the word.

    ¡°There are four Ruler ranks: Earthbound, Skybound, Heavenbound, and Voidbound Rulers,¡± the Inheritance Ruler started to exin.

    ¡°Earthbound Rulers are those that excel in an extremely specific field, may it be a craft, element, or whatever. A great example of an Earthbound Ruler would be the Ruler of Seed nting.¡±

    ¡°Skybound Rulers are a step above Earthbound Rulers as they epass a greater field than them. Using the Ruler of Seed nting as the previous example, the Ruler of Harvest would be the example for this level.¡±

    ¡°Heavenbound Rulers are of course even better than Skybound Rulers, epassing an extremely vast field that could even encroach over multiple Skybound fields. Not only that, bing a Heavenbound Ruler is equivalent to bing a Junior Dominator, which makes it easier for one to transition. Following the agricultural examples, the Ruler of Agriculture is the example for this one.¡±

    ¡°Andstly, Voidbound Rulers. This is the strongest position one can achieve as a Ruler, being equivalent to a Dominator and an Underworld Overseer in terms of rank. These Rulers epass over multiple Heavenbound fields at once, which means they excel in many things. In this case, the Ruler of Botany would be our example.¡±

    ¡°Does that make everything clearer to you? Also, I¡¯m a Skybound Ruler, just so you know.¡± After exining the ranks, the Inheritance Ruler asked Aurus to see if he understood.

    ¡°Mm, it makes a whole lot of sense,¡± Aurus responded. ¡°Since you told me that any Ruler would be willing to ept me with open arms, does that mean that I can choose to be epted by Heavenbound and Voidbound Rulers?¡±

    Although Aurus wanted it to be the case, he would be alright with having a Skybound Ruler at the very least to guide him in bing a Ruler. But surprisingly, the Inheritance Ruler said yes to the question.

    ¡°Yes, that¡¯s the benefit of bing a 1st ss Ruler candidate. Any kind of Ruler would ept you with open arms, no matter what.¡±

    ¡°If that¡¯s the case¡­¡± Aurus¡¯ mind then started turning gears, thinking about the best Ruler to learn under. While he was thinking about what Ruler to choose, the thought of the Genesis Seed System surfaced in his mind.

    ¡®Speaking of which, I haven¡¯t decided on a type yet,¡¯ Aurus thought to himself. ¡®Would a Ruler guiding me be able to speed up the growth process of the seed?¡¯

    And with that, Aurus asked one more time, ¡°Just to make sure, I can choose any Ruler I want, right?¡±

    ¡°Yes,¡± the Inheritance Ruler replied.

    ¡°Even if the Ruler I choose to be doesn¡¯t really suit my current self?¡±

    ¡°Mhm.¡±

    ¡°Well then, that makes things easier.¡± Aurus chuckled as he followed up with another question.

    ¡°What Ruler rank does the Ruler of Space have?¡±

    ¡°Uh¡­ let¡¯s see¡­¡± The Inheritance Ruler took a few seconds to ponder over its answer, responding not long after with, ¡°Heavenbound.¡±

    ¡°Then what Ruler is higher than the Ruler of Space?¡± Surprised that the Ruler of Space wasn¡¯t the highest rank, Aurus asked.

    ¡°Ruler of the Void,¡± The Inheritance Ruler sinctly answered.

    ¡°Then I choose to learn under the guidance of the Ruler of the Void,¡± Aurus replied afterwards.

    Rather than refuting Aurus¡¯ decision, the Inheritance Ruler just epted it. ¡°Alright then, it¡¯ll take a few seconds for your position as a Substitute Ruler of the Void to be official, so please wait.¡±

    And with that, the Inheritance Ruler did not talk afterwards. Aurus did not worry about something bad happening to the Inheritance Ruler, hence he waited.

    It took a minute for some action to happen, with a voice resounding throughout the room once more. This time though, it was a voice filled with the chilling aura of the void.

    ¡°Inheritor, do you truly wish to excel in the path of the Void and be its Ruler?¡± the chilling voice asked.

    Without hesitation, Aurus answered, ¡°Yeah, got any problem with that?¡±

    ¡°No, not really.¡± Rather than being surprised by Aurus¡¯ answer, the chilling voice just brushed it off.

    ¡°With the power vested in me, you, the inheritor, shall now be deemed as a Substitute Ruler of the Void. In order to raise your standing in bing a Ruler of the Void, you must firstprehend and expound to at least Peak Mortal level the skills I¡¯m abiut to give you.¡±

    Ding! Ding! Ding!

    Hearing the multiple notification sounds resounding, Aurus opened his notification screen.

    ¡®You have received the title [Substitute Ruler of the Void]. This title shall be applied on the user permanently until it is reced by a greater title or if the user wishes to not apply the title.¡¯

    ¡®You have received the passive Ruler skill, [Void¡¯s Grace].¡¯

    ¡®You have received the hybrid Ruler skill, [Movement of the Void].¡¯

    ¡®You have received the hybrid Ruler skill, [Wrath of the Void].¡¯

    ¡®You have received the hybrid Ruler skill, [Protection of the Void].¡¯

    ¡®You have received the hybrid Ruler skill, [Formless Void].¡¯

    ¡°Very nice.¡± Aurus looked at the skills that were given to him and from the names alone, they seemed to be pretty strong. While Aurus was still looking at the skills, the chilling voice then said, ¡°I wish you good luck in enhancing your understanding of all of these skills. For now, this is farewell.¡±

    Whoosh!

    And without even being able to say goodbye or thank you to the Ruler of the Void, Aurus was transported out of the Area 52 Inheritance at the very instant the Ruler of the Void was finished talking.

    ¡°Ain¡¯t that rude,¡± Aurus could not help but say as he travelled through the void.

    ¡°I wanted to say thank you, but with what you did¡­¡±

    ¡°You deserve more of a fuck you.¡±

 Chapter 129: Calamity

    Chapter 129: Cmity

    Whoosh!

    It didn¡¯t take long for Aurus to appear outside the inheritance, arriving a decent distance away from the gray magic circle that served as the entrance for the inheritance.

    Aurus was still quite angry at the Ruler of the Void as he still had a few questions to ask him regarding the void and whatnot. But for some reason, the Ruler of the Void thought it was already good for him to obtain the lowest rank possible and the skills that came with it.

    Nevertheless, with him outside the inheritance, he had no choice but to just ept what he had and go back to the alliance.

    Weng¡­weng¡­

    Just as he was about to prepare to head back to the alliance, a sound that was nearing the level of being incredibly annoying resounded throughout where he was, grabbing his attention in an instant.

    ¡°Where the heck is that sounding from?¡± Aurus could not help but ask himself as he looked here and there in his current position, finding a conspicuous magic circle not long after.

    As he stared at the magic circle, he could not help but wonder as to why it was here. He came closer to it and could suddenly feel an aura incredibly familiar to him, an aura of someone he knew very well.

    ¡°Herellia¡¯s aura? What¡¯s it doing¡ªoh. I see.¡± While Aurus was pondering as to why Herellia would put down a magic circle, he easily got to the conclusion, unlike the position of Ruler.

    ¡°She put down her aura here to tell me that she had already left the inheritance and had gone back to the alliance. She¡¯s the leader, so it¡¯s understandable for her toe back first,¡± Aurus said to himself as he continued to look at the magic circle. A mote of light that stood out among the inner workings of the magic circle could not help but catch Aurus¡¯ eye, using his tendril to tap on that mote of light.

    Ding!

    Surprisingly, the mote of light triggered a notification from the system as the system asked, ¡®You have received a stored message from Herellia. Would you like to read?¡¯

    ¡°A message from her¡­¡± Without thinking twice, Aurus epted the prompt as an influx of information entered his mind, followed by Herellia¡¯s voice ringing in his sense of hearing.

    ¡°Hey Aurus, if you¡¯ve received this message, first of all, congrattions!¡± Herellia said to Aurus through the message.

    Since Aurus knew very well that it was a message meant for him, he did not respond to it subconsciously, but just listened as Herellia continued to talk.

    ¡°Since you¡¯ve passed the inheritance, I¡¯m very sure you¡¯ve gotten an inheritance leaf. Is it Soaring grade? Unshrouding grade? Whatever it is, it¡¯ll definitely help out in grinding skills.¡±

    ¡°Heheh.¡± At this point in time, Aurus could not help but chuckle at Herellia¡¯s statement. He had obtained a Transcending Comprehension Leaf, a grade above what she had expected. But then, Herellia said something that made Aurus turn serious.

    ¡°I¡¯m very sure you obtained a key from that inheritance. I¡¯ll tell you more about it once you get back here. It¡¯d be better if youe here as early as possible since we don¡¯t know what could happen while you¡¯re listening to this message.¡±

    ¡°How does she know about the existence of the key? Is this why she wanted to join me in clearing this inheritance?¡± Aurus could not help but formte a few questions in his mind, only for him to put them at the back of his mind. ¡°Then again, she¡¯s correct. I have to get back to the alliance as fast as possible. The faster I get back there, the faster I can create a human clone.¡±

    Even though Aurus had obtained a ton of information regarding Rulers, the thought of making a clone to relive that feeling did not disappear at all. He was still going to do it.

    ¡°I¡¯m definitely sure that after I evolved Anima Creation to C-grade Transcendent level, I have obtained more than enough SP to create a clone.¡±

    ¡°No wait, it¡¯s called FP now.¡±

    Whoosh!

    At the very instant Aurus was finished talking to himself, he activated [Void Gale Spirit Shift], teleporting to a position 2 kilometers away from where he was, leaving no traces of him being inside the inheritance. As he appeared in that position, he then activated all of his movement enhancing buffs and started to zoom towards the alliance.

    ¡°I wonder if [Movement of the Void] would help me move faster.¡± As he continued to zoom through thendscape, Aurus could not help but wonder how potent a buff from the Ruler of the Void was.

    ¡°[Movement of the Void].¡±

    Fwoosh!

    At the next instant, his movement speed, which was already fast for someone at the Inanimate level, was enhanced by at the very least 5 times, achieving a speed unseen in Inanimates before.

    ¡°Holy shit! This speed!¡±

    ¡°And what the fuck? I can turn it on and off whenever I want?¡±

    ¡°I guess the Ruler of the Void is right.¡±

    ¡°This might just be all what I need!¡±

    ¡­

    While Aurus was heading back to the Tempest Branch Alliance at a speed unimaginable to any Inanimate, one of the alliances governing over the Tempest Cliff renowned for their Energistus Branches and Saplings, the Verdant Nut Alliance, was being pummeled by a party known by many.

    Crash!

    A great chunk of the alliance¡¯s base was destroyed to bits as a de made out of extremely condensed Wind energy particles cut through said part of base. Unlike the Tempest Branch Alliance¡¯s base, the Verdant Nut Alliance¡¯s base was very open, being situated in the center of arge forest within the Tempest Cliff. But thanks to that though, their alliance had a poor defense.

    ¡°Aaaah! Stay away from me! [Verdant Beheading]!¡± One of the mages from the Verdant Nut Alliance seemed to have snapped thanks to extreme fear, casting an offensive spell on the enemy. Normally, it would be ideal for the mage to cast a spell on the enemy, but it wasn¡¯t any normal enemy they were fighting against.

    In an instant, a de made out of wind condensed above the enemy¡¯s head and fell down like a meteor, cutting the head¡¯s open¡­or at least, that¡¯s what was supposed to happen.

    Clink.

    Rather than hearing something being torn apart, a sound foreign to these mages was heard, instilling more fear into them as they looked at what they were fighting against.

    It was a wolf that had smooth green fur all over its body. Its body seemed to exude the aura of being one with nature, specifically the nature of Wind.

    This wolf was none other than Chonk.

    ¡°Heh, you thought a measly de could injure me?¡± Chonk could not help butugh at the futile effort of the mage that shot the de out. He then look at the direction of the mage and swiped his front paw down, creating a vortex of wind that easily mangled the branch mage into pieces.

    Crack! Crack! Crack!

    ¡°No!¡±

    ¡°Jellian! How could you!¡±

    ¡°This can¡¯t be happening¡­¡±

    Multiple cries of sadness and despair started to resonate throughout the alliance as not only Jellian, the mage that shot out the de, was killed, a few others were also caught up in the mess, ending up getting killed as well.

    Then again, the more one kills in a war, the faster they can take the advantage.

    Amidst all of the screams that resonated throughout the alliance, one voice remained calm andposed as it reverberated, ¡°Everyone, keep calm ande closer to me!¡±

    ¡°That¡­¡±

    ¡°The leader!¡±

    ¡°Boss Harriott!¡±

    As they listened to the words of their leader being uttered, it was like everyone had been given a wake up pill, bringing back themselves from the grips of death and despair as they followed Harriott¡¯s words to a T.

    It did not take long for the remaining members of the Verdant Nut Alliance to group up with their leader, forming a triangr formation of mages that faced against Chonk.

    Then again, Chonk was never alone in the first ce. He still had his ves help him out, with most of them focused on destroying the alliance buildings and removing the heritage they left for the future generation just in case. But there were some that stayed beside Chonk, eager to find out what the alliance¡¯s final move was.

    ¡°My brothers, go ahead and use your strongest move and direct them upwards!¡± Harriott shouted to his members. ¡°After that, I¡¯ll do the rest!¡±

    ¡°Alright boss! [Surging Tide]!¡±

    ¡°[Burning Fang]!¡±

    ¡°[Evesting Chill]!¡±

    ¡°[Sundering Earth]!¡±

    ¡°[Ultimate Fuck It All Move]!¡±

    ¡°[All or Nothing Beam]!¡±

    ¡°[I Don¡¯t Know What To Call This Move, But I Can Assure You Boss That It¡¯s A Strong Move Nheless]!¡±

    As each and every member of the alliance started shooting their ultimate moves upward, Harriott flew upwards to a height of ten meters or so. He then started to circte the SP in his body, expanding it outwards as it captured the energy inside each of the spells his members shot out.

    While continuing to absorb more and more ultimate level spells, Harriott could not help but shout towards Chonk and his gang, ¡°Although you can destroy our alliance, our spirit shall never give in!¡±

    ¡®Man, the line I said was very cool,¡¯ Harriott could not help but chuckle to himself. ¡®I should really warn Zenissa and Herellia about them though. I¡¯ll do that as I shoot out this ultimate move.¡¯

    Eventually, Harriott had umted enough energy from the spells, coalescing them into arge sphere of energy. He then threw it towards where Chonk stood.

    ¡°This is thebination of all of the ultimate spells my members have learned! All of our efforts, experiences, emotions, everything, is in this ball of extreme power!¡±

    ¡°We shall never give in! Our unyielding wills will never allow it!¡±

    ¡°Take this! [Spirit Bomb]!¡±

    Whoosh!

    Although it looked like therge energy ball was moving very slowly, it was in fact moving at a speed that allowed it to reach a meter away from Chonk at the instant Harriott was finished with his monologue.

    But before the ball could collide with him, Chonk said.

    ¡°Horell.¡±

    ¡°Do it.¡±

    ¡­

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    Rather than take a few hours to get back to the alliance, thanks to the [Movement of the Void] which has now been upgraded to X-grade Mortal level due to the Transcending Comprehension Leaf¡¯s effects, Aurus was able to cut down the travel time to 15 minutes.

    Swish!

    As he gradually slowed down, hended on the center of the hall that served as the entry point for the members of the alliance.

    Although he was quite familiar with the alliance, this time around, he felt that the aura surrounding the hall was extremely gloomy, with a hint of fear and despair added into it.

    ¡°I feel like something bad has happened,¡± Aurus could not help but say as his gut feeling was strong this time. Just as he was about to call out the name of a member, Herellia came to therge hall and saw Aurus.

    ¡°Aurus! I¡¯m d you¡¯re safe!¡± As Herellia got closer to Aurus, Aurus could not help but be confused as to why she was happy to see him safe.

    ¡°Safe? Me? Of course, I¡¯d be safe,¡± Aurus replied, only to be silent for a bit as he pondered ovee the reasons why Herellia would say that. Eventually, he asked, ¡°Did something happen while I was gone?¡±

    ¡°Yeah.¡± Herellia nodded through her aura at Aurus¡¯ question. At that instant, Herellia¡¯s mood became more solemn as she replied, ¡°We just received the news from Harriott, the leader of the Verdant Nut Alliance, that¡­¡±

    ¡°The Verdant Nut Alliance is no longer here.¡±

 Chapter 130: Demon Slayer

    Chapter 130: Demon yer

    While Aurus was being updated as to what has been happening around the Tempest Cliff through Herellia just as he arrived, two Greater Goddess were currently zooming through the Celestial ne, heading towards the ne of a renowned divine cksmith on the level of Kurohana, renowned for making weapons that were the bane of demons.

    These two Greater Goddesses were none other than Nix, the hallmaster of the Hall of Greater Divinity, and Shirohana, Kurohana¡¯s divine clone that had 90% of her full power for now.

    It took the both of them a couple of hours to reach the ce where the renowned cksmith, Misha¡¯s, ne was resided. Then again, as the both of them were Greater Goddesses was far faster than what Lesser Gods and Goddesses could achieve.

    Whoosh!

    Step. Step.

    With both of themnding on the edge of a path as the breeze of the space wind passed through their bodies, the both of them looked at the sight in front of them.

    Instead of a ne that seemed to fit the power of what a divine cksmith held, it seemed to fit someone that had the power of a mortal cksmith.

    The currentndscape in front of them was akin to what one would see in a medieval setting. Arge forest filled with multiple trees, rivers, and wild animals. What set it apart was found at the center of the ne, arge stone tower that was a thousand meters tall.

    Nix could not help but look at the stone tower, then back at Shirohana beside her, and say, ¡°Why are all cksmiths so entric in terms of design and taste?¡±

    Shirohana also looked at the stone tower in the distance and replied to Nix¡¯s question. ¡°It¡¯s far better than a ne of pure darkness like yours though.¡±

    Hearing these wordse out of Shirohana¡¯s mouth, Nix could not help but puff her cheeks out as she said, ¡°It¡¯s an aesthetic choice! An aesthetic choice!¡±

    ¡°Call it an aesthetic choice, but it¡¯s still a big pile of darkness, Nix,¡± Shirohana said to her before starting to walk along the path that led to the stone tower.

    ¡°I¡­¡± Nix wanted to refute Shirohana¡¯s words, but in the end, she gave up and walked beside Shirohana along the path.

    ¡­

    Since the ne was veryrge given that Misha was a divine cksmith, although it looked Nix and Shirohana were walking, they were traversing multiple kilometers with one step. It only took them a couple of minutes to arrive at the front of the stone tower, where arge entrance could be seen.

    Nix and Shirohana stood in front of this entrance for a short while in silence. After some time, Shirohana could not help herself anymore, asking Nix, ¡°Why are we just standing here? Can¡¯t we go and enter the tower already, seeing that there¡¯s no one guarding it?¡±

    From Shirohana, or in this case, Kurohana¡¯s perspective, it was a given since she was also a divine cksmith in her own right. But rather than allowing Shirohana to do whatever, Nix instead shook her head as she replied, ¡°Misha doesn¡¯t really like people go through her tower without permission. If you do enter her tower without her permission, you¡¯d end up getting equipment as well, but it wouldn¡¯t even do so much as leave a scratch on the demons you¡¯ll fight.¡±

    ¡°I see,¡± Shirohana nodded towards Nix¡¯s exnation and decided to just wait as there was not much harm in waiting anyway. Eventually, a silhouette appeared out of therge entrance. As the silhouette came out of the entrance and was lit up by a nearby sun¡¯s rays, the two of them could finally see who the silhouette was.

    Her face alone would be enough for multiple men to fight for. And we¡¯re talking about fights that span across a supercluster. As for her body, it was well-toned due to her work, entuating the beauty of her face even further. She wore brown overalls over a in gray shirt as she looked at the two of them and asked, ¡°May I know why the two of you havee here?¡±

    Seeing the face of the person that came to greet them, Nix lightly smiled and responded, ¡°We¡¯vee here to seek your demon ying weapons, Misha.¡±

    As for Shirohana, who had stayed silent all this time, she looked at Misha from head to toe, assessing her mastery in cksmithing through her arms and hands. Eventually, she could not help but say within with Kurohana, ¡°She¡¯s a divine cksmith alright.¡±

    ¡°Not as good as Master, though.¡±

    ¡°Oh? My demon sealing weapons?¡± Misha could not help but be surprised as to Nix¡¯s reason foring here. At that instant, her expression turned serious as slight killing intent started to radiate out of her.

    ¡°Are the demonsing back to invade the Celestial ne?¡±

    ¡°That is precisely the reason.¡± Nix nodded. ¡°Two Lesser Gods have been turned into Depraved Deities, and we want to prevent more Lesser Gods turning into demons, lest we want to have a Second Divine Demon War.¡±

    ¡°If that¡¯s the case,¡± Misha pondered for a bit as she answered, before looking at Nix and Shirohana and continuing, ¡°Then follow me. I¡¯ll show you some extremely potent weapons perfect for demon ying.¡±

    And with that, Misha turned around and started to walk inside the stone tower, with Nix and Shirohana following behind her in silence.

    ¡­

    After ten minutes or so of walking through the insides of the stone tower, they had eventually reached the halfway point of the stone tower, where an aura of extreme purity and cleanliness could be felt emanating from the floor itself.

    Nix and Shirohana could not help but tense up after feeling this aura. To them, it felt like they were being suffocated by the intense aura of purity.

    ¡°I almost forgot to tell you about this Shirohana,¡± Nix said to Shirohana as they stood at the center of the floor. ¡°Misha is the Greater Goddess of Purity, allowing her to specialize in creating demon ying and sealing weapons. Especially her Throne-level weapons, they¡¯re the 7th and highest series of demon ying weapons she has crafted and man are they extremely effective!¡±

    ¡°You make me blush, Nix.¡± Misha could not help but chuckle as she waved her hands in the air, multiple tangible threads manifesting from her hands before spreading throughout the floor. ¡°Then again, I¡¯ve drastically improved the performance of my demon ying weapons from the Divine Demon War. At most, my strongest weapons back then can be considered Virtue-level, or the 5th series.¡±

    ¡°But right now though, witness the Cherubim-level weapons I have created, the 8th series of weapons I¡¯ve crafted meant to kill demons!¡±

    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!

    At the instant Misha was finished talking, multiple racks where weapons were ced rose up from the floor, giving Nix and Shirohana a sight to behold.

    From shurikens and kunais, to longswords and halberds, to even greatswords and battleaxes, every kind of possible weapon type was seen on the weapon racks, all of them exuding an intense aura of purity. Nix and Shirohana could not help but feel that just by touching them, they¡¯d definitely be injured.

    ¡°Go ahead and choose a weapon,¡± Misha said as she looked at the reactions of the two, with a smile creeping up her face. ¡°As for the price, it¡¯s free of charge since you¡¯re using it for a purpose regarding the whole Celestial ne anyway. Speaking of which, do the Immortal Verdict Wielders know of this?¡±

    ¡°Yep.¡± This time, Shirohana was the one who answered, casually browsing through the weapons to see what would be the most effective one for her. ¡°Big Sis Phatia-er, I mean, Phatia, the Wielder of the Immortal Verdict of Fate has been informed of this and she must have spread it to the other Immortal Verdict Wielders as well.¡±

    ¡°I see,¡± Misha replied as she looked at Shirohana. After a while, she could not help but examine Shirohana more closely, eventually covering her mouth with both hands as she gasped before asking, ¡°Wait a second¡­ aren¡¯t you Kurohana. Aren¡¯t you a divine cksmith as well? Surely there¡¯s no need for my weapons to be used if you yourself are a divine cksmith capable of crafting demon ying weapons?¡±

    ¡°I must apologize Miss Misha but I am not Kurohana, but I am also Kurohana at the same time,¡± Shirohana replied as she picked up the whip, swinging it here and there to get a feel for the weight and power of the whip. ¡°I am Shirohana, a divine clone made by her in order to help Nix in fighting against the demons. I am very thankful to you for contributing demon ying weapons back then.¡±

    She then bowed towards Misha as she continued, ¡°I may be a divine cksmith, or rather a divine craftswoman in this case, but I¡¯m very sure that even with my great mastery over the Law of Reincarnation, it would not even be on par your Virtue-level weapons, even more so for your Cherubim-level weapons.¡±

    Crack!

    With a simple flick of the whip, an air cracking sound resounded throughout the whole floor, slightly making the floor to and fro as Shirohana looked satisfied with her choice.

    ¡°I¡¯ll be choosing this whip then,¡± Shirohana said as she looked at Misha. ¡°Would there be any problems with that, Miss Misha?¡±

    ¡°Nope, not at all,¡± Misha replied with a smile. ¡°A tip though, I¡¯d suggest casting holy type buffs on the whip before fighting against the demons for a greater effect.¡±

    ¡°I will definitely keep that in mind, Miss Misha.¡± Shirohana smiled back as she looked at Nix, who had chosen a zweihander after careful consideration.

    ¡°Why did you pick up a weapon, Nix? Are you going to help me fight against the Depraved Deities?¡± Shirohana could not help but ask.

    ¡°Oh no, no, I¡¯m just grabbing one in the case of more Depraved Deities popping up. Wouldn¡¯t want a True Demon God to be born, right?¡± Nix opened up a rift and ced the zweihander inside it before closing it with a smile.

    ¡°Fair enough.¡± Shirohana did the same as Nix as she shrugged her shoulders towards Nix¡¯s answer.

    ¡°If you would excuse us, Misha, we have some demons to y,¡± Nix looked at Misha and bowed.

    ¡°I wish you the very best. This would definitely help you two out.¡± As Misha said this, she snapped her fingers twice, opening up a passage on one of the walls of the floor they were on.

    Not only that, Misha then started to chant.

    ¡°I am the Greater Goddess of Purity, impartial to those without sin and ruthless to those corrupt. May my words bless the great goddess undertaking the holy task of demon ying.¡±

    ¡°Light of the Holy Land, rain upon thee. 3rd Divine Circle, Purity Grace!¡±

    Whoosh!

    At that instant, Shirohana was then covered in an aura of intense purity, giving her an aura of purity that did not lose out to those Cherubim-level weapons.

    ¡°I hope you cane back safely, Shirohana,¡± Misha said with slight concern. ¡°If not, I might have to charge your other half.¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t worry.¡± Shirohanaughed at Misha¡¯s joke. ¡°After fighting against demons for so long, I won¡¯t die from them that easily.¡±

    Whoosh!

    And with that, the two of them left Misha¡¯s stone tower. Eventually, Nix and Shirohana parted ways, leaving Shirohana alone in her adventure to fight against Hinari and Hodazuka to gauge the demons¡¯ current strength.

    ¡°I hope there¡¯s no Deified Sin level demons possessing them. If so, I might just lose a great portion of my power.¡±

 Chapter 131: Preparation

    Chapter 131: Preparation

    While Shirohana was heading alone towards the ne where Hinari and Hodazuka lived, a greatmotion between two high level Inanimates urred within the entrance hall of the Tempest Branch Alliance.

    ¡°The Verdant Nut Alliance is no longer existing,¡± Herellia looked at Aurus, who had just got into the entrance, and said.

    ¡°What?¡± Of course, Aurus did not really imprint the words Herellia said into his mind, hence he asked, ¡°Could you repeat that one more time?¡±

    ¡°I said,¡± Herellia replied, not minding Aurus¡¯ request. ¡°The Verdant Nut Alliance is no longer existing!¡±

    ¡°¡­¡± At that, Aurus became at a loss for words. Eventually, what Herellia told him imprinted in his mind as he shouted in shock, ¡°Eh?!¡±

    Only to follow up with a, ¡°What¡¯s the Verdant Nut Alliance?¡±

    ¡°Huh?!¡± As Herellia heard these wordse out of Aurus¡¯ non-existent mouth, she could not help but be infuriated¡­only for her to ponder a bit and reply in understanding, ¡°Now that I think about it, I haven¡¯t really gone in-depth about the situation of Tempest Cliff.¡±

    ¡°I told you before that Tempest Cliff is governed by three alliances and a single powerful being, right?¡± Herellia asked, wanting to make sure if Aurus remembered.

    ¡°Mhm, you told me before.¡± Surprisingly, Aurus agreed with what she said, remembering very well that that was what she said before he entered the alliance.

    ¡°And I also told you that our aim is to destroy that single powerful being, right?¡± With Aurus agreeing to her first question, she then followed up with another one.

    ¡°Uh¡­¡± Aurus tried to rummage through his memories for a bit before agreeing. ¡°Yeah, I kinda remember you saying that back then. You told me that that was the reason you epted me even though I was A-grade back then.¡±

    ¡°Okay, good.¡± Seeing that Aurus remembered up to that point, she let out a sigh of relief internally before starting to exin the entities that governed over Tempest Cliff.

    ¡°So, as I¡¯ve said before, there are three alliances within the Tempest Cliff. Namely, these three alliances are the Verdant Nut Alliance, Blossom Breeze Alliance, and our Tempest Branch Alliance.¡±

    ¡°The Verdant Nut Alliance specializes in spells and magic-based stuff, the Blossom Breeze Alliance specializes in illusions and souls, while our alliance doesn¡¯t really specialize in everything, but we¡¯re not bad at everything as well.¡±

    ¡°Anyways, that single powerful being who I¡¯ve surely mentioned before is Chonk, an Inanimate turned Animate wolf turned hater of alliances.¡± After saying this, Herellia looked at Aurus, wanting to see if there were any changes. But even with her [Eyes of Undeceiving Kin], there was no change in Aurus¡¯ emotions.

    Without hesitation, she continued, ¡°Since Chonk is a hater of alliances, it would make sense if he started destroying the alliances, right?¡±

    With that question, Aurus agreed. ¡°Yes, that¡¯s correct. What are you getting to though?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m saying that, the Verdant Nut Alliance is not the only alliance to be destroyed. Even the Blossom Breeze Alliance could be destroyed. Or even our own alliance at that,¡± Herellia replied with a serious aura emanating out of her body.

    ¡°Ah¡­¡± And at that, Aurus understood¡­only to scream out in shock. ¡°Then doesn¡¯t that mean¡­we can die?¡±

    ¡°Of course, we can,¡± Herellia brushed death off like it was nothing. ¡°War never changes at all. Although I¡¯m not scared, we should still prepare.¡±

    ¡°Eh? Why aren¡¯t you scared?¡± Aurus could not help but ask after hearing Herellia mention it.

    ¡°Goddess.¡± And that was Herellia¡¯s only reply. After that, she turned around and started to fly into the main portion of the alliance as she said, ¡°You better prepare Aurus. We don¡¯t know when we might fight against Chonk.¡±

    Whoosh!

    And with that, Herellia left the hall, leaving Aurus alone to himself.

    ¡°Eh¡­goddess?¡± Aurus pondered over this word for a bit and eventually got down to what she was trying to imply. He could not help but agree to that as he muttered to himself, ¡°She ain¡¯t wrong. Kurohana would definitely protect me.¡±

    ¡°Oh wait¡­I forgot to ask her about soul sealing skills!¡± Just as he finished thinking about Kurohana, his previous train of thought rted to his soul and the clone went back to the track, making him scream in annoyance, an annoyance at himself.

    He continued to scream for a bit more before returning to his previous self,posing himself as he tried to formte a n regarding to what he wanted to do and what Herellia wanted him to do.

    ¡°Okay, so¡­I have to prepare for a future attack,¡± Aurus said to himself as he decided to fly out of the hall, heading towards a ce that held importance to him as it pretty much changed his path for the better.

    ¡°But before that, I¡¯ll go to the Tempest Cliff Inheritance first. I might just find a soul sealing skill and then I could rest easy afterwards, putting my full focus on grinding the shit out of my skills.¡±

    ¡°And then finally evolving to X-grade.¡±

    Of course, Aurus knew that his evolution was long overdue, hence he thought that after grinding all of his skills would be a good time to evolve.

    ¡­

    Whoosh!

    It only took an instant for Aurus to enter the Tempest Cliff Inheritance as he was the owner of the inheritance, only needing to be on the green magic circle that served as the entrance for a short bit.

    As the sight of the green jade hall entered his eyes, he could not help but feel nostalgic for a short bit. Not long after, he started to hover once more,manding the system that controlled the inheritance to open the pathway that led to the room that was filled to the brim with skill books.

    It only took Aurus a few seconds to arrive at the room thanks to his newly heightened speed, hastily looking for the soul searching skill he wanted to get after increasing his Soul Power to 188?

    Will he increase his Soul Power after this? Probably not.

    ¡°Not this¡­not this one either¡­¡± As he was hastily shuffling through all of the bookshelves in the room in search for the soul sealing skills, a pile of books from the shelves fell on the floor due to the breeze he was generating. Eventually though, he stopped searching as he had finally found the skill he wanted. ¡°Here!¡±

    Ding!

    ¡®You have learned the skill [Soul Suppression].¡¯

    ¡®[Soul Suppression] ispatible with [Soul Maniption],bining together into the Special-grade skill [Soul Morphosis].¡¯

    ¡°Now all I have to do is to max this skill out to possibly X-grade Mortal level and everything will be fi¡ª¡± Just as Aurus was about to start grinding his newly obtained skill to its peak, everything in his surroundings turned white, shocking him so much to the point where he could not continue his sentence.

    Soon enough though, he felt a familiar aura within this white space, giving him the urge to ask himself, ¡°Ain¡¯t this the ce where I met¡­¡± As he continued to look around, a silhouette extremely familiar to him eventually showed itself to him.

    ¡°Kevin!¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ve been trying to get a hold of you for a while now!¡± Kevin, who was standing at the moment in the white space, could not help but be angry as he looked at Aurus.

    ¡°Well I¡¯m sorry then! I entered an inheritance and became a Ruler and well¡­¡± After hearing Kevin berate him after meeting after a very long time, Aurus could not help but reason his way out.

    As Kevin continued to listen to Aurus¡¯ reasons, he could not help but perk his ears up after hearing a specific word. ¡°Hey Aurus, did you just say you became a Ruler?¡±

    At first, Aurus was surprised to hear such a question out of Kevin¡¯s mouth. Nheless, he answered it, saying, ¡°Yeah. Ruler of the Void, lowest level though.¡±

    ¡°To think that you can be a Ruler at your level¡­¡± Kevin was at a loss for words after looking at Aurus. He could not help but strengthen his belief at the idea that this stick¡­well, wooden sculpture in front of him would definitely do some big things in the future.

    ¡°Congrattions on bing a Ruler of the Void, but let me ask you a question.¡± Although Kevin was surprised, he was only pleasantly surprised. He then asked Aurus a question he wanted to ask all this time.

    ¡°Why haven¡¯t you created a clone yet?¡± Kevin has already warned him a long time ago that danger would befall him in the near future, but it seemed that he wouldn¡¯t learn.

    ¡°Oh, I was just about to create one after I leave this inheritance,¡± Aurus replied to Kevin¡¯s question and continued, ¡°I didn¡¯t have enough SP¡­I mean, FP before. Right now, I have more than twice the amount needed¡­probably.¡±

    ¡°That much? If so, that¡¯ll be even better for your clone then,¡± Kevin said as he heard Aurus talk about having more SP than needed. Wait, it was called FP.

    ¡°What¡¯s great about having more FP? Could you perhaps enlighten me, Kevin?¡±

    ¡°Well first off, the FP requirement needed to activate the clone creation skill will only allow you to create a low-level clone. You could always nurture it, but you would bemitting a lot of resources into it. Not only that, its form is limited to your current form as well,¡± Kevin started to exin.

    ¡°If you infuse more SP into your clone though, you¡¯ll be able to change the clone¡¯s form and even change its existence level if needed,¡± Kevin started to talk about the good points of having more FP than needed. Eventually, he said something that caught Aurus¡¯ attention.

    ¡°Not only that, by infusing more FP into your clone, you can even create a resonance skill between your clone and yourself, increasing your stats by a great degree once your two bodies are in close proximity.¡±

    ¡°¡­¡± Aurus became silent for a bit as he pondered on what to say. After a few seconds though, he opened his mouth and asked.

    ¡°Why didn¡¯t you tell me earlier then?¡±

 Chapter 132: Danes Student

    Chapter 132: Dane¡¯s Student

    While Aurus and Kevin were talking inside a white space who knows where it has been formed, their topic being about the Spirit Clone that Aurus was about to craft, a certain Rank 4 High Mage¡¯s student was doing something.

    XXXX Continent, Arcana Tower.

    Hum¡­hum¡­

    Within a secluded room, a certain Rank 4 High Mage¡¯s student sat cross-legged on the room¡¯s floor with their eyes closed, attuning their body to the multiple mana stones embedded on the walls of said room.

    This student was none other than Erea [1], Dane¡¯s only student that had been following her teacher¡¯s words to a T.

    At the moment, she was circting her mana all throughout her body as she gradually absorbed the mana from the embedded mana stones, allowing her to temper her own mana.

    As she did this, her body glowed a faint light blue. Not long after, this would then change to a faint light red¡­then a faint light green¡­then a faint light brown.

    The reason why Erea was epted by Dane as his only student was because of her elemental affinity, which was definitely hard toe across as people only had one elemental affinity at most. She, on the other hand, had four.

    Not only that, her aptitude as a mage was also above average as she could grasp the mechanics of magic and the mastery of magic spells at a speed greater than normal mages.

    ¡°Huuu¡­¡± Eventually, Erea opened her eyes as she let out a long sigh of relief, faint ck airing out of her mouth.

    Just as she opened her eyes, the embedded mana stones on the wall of the secluded room she was in gradually lost their luster before turning into normal rocks in terms of appearance.

    Seeing this phenomenon happen, Erea could not help but lightly smile as she stood up and lightly stretched her body. ¡°Ahh¡­just in time before my time for the room was up.¡±

    After stretching her body, she then walked out of the secluded room she was in and started to walk towards the lower floors of the Arcana Tower, far lower than her current floor. As to why, she was going to obtain a Lower Level 1 spell, just like what Dane said.

    The reason as to why Erea was only going to grab a Lower Level 1 spell right now was because she had solely focused on upgrading her attributes and her maximum mana capacity. She had a hunch that it would be easier for her to master the spell once she had a high enough Intelligence stat to do just that.

    While she was walking down the stairs of the Arcana Tower to head towards the spellbook marketce, an ever familiar sound to her resounded inside her head, prompting her to stop walking and move by the outer side of the stairs, near the windows.

    Ding!

    ¡°Eh?¡± Erea could not help but be confused as to where this sound came from.

    ¡°Why did the system send me a notification?¡±

    Turns out, she was not confused, she was just surprised that her system sent out a notification at this time.

    Since the system sent less and less notifications after she had grown to a considerable level, she had a feeling that the notification she got had something to do rted to her ss.

    Shemanded the system to open up thetest notification she received in her mind, allowing her to see a holographic screen appear in front of her face not even an instantter.

    ¡®You have met the requirements needed to transition to a higher ss. Would you like to do so?¡¯

    ¡°I had a feeling the system would ask me this,¡± Erea could not help but mutter to herself amidst the hustle and bustle urring in the stairs of the Arcana Tower. She thought about the question for a bit, before responding with a ¡°No.¡± Of course, she did this in her mind to not attract other people¡¯s attention.

    Ding!

    ¡®You can always opt to transition to a higher ss at any time. Once the user obtains a special skill or experience anything special, the user can even transition to a higher ss that wields stronger power.¡¯

    ¡°Well ain¡¯t that a given.¡± Erea could not help butugh inwardly at the obviousness of the system. Eventually, her eyes turned serious as she muttered, ¡°Since the system said so, I guess that NPC¡­no¡­teacher, was correct about me obtaining a special ss once I do what he says.¡±

    ¡°Although that would hinder me from obtaining Godhood faster, that ain¡¯t a problem,¡± Erea continued to talk to herself as she processed her thoughts. ¡°If it means that I could be a stronger Goddess in the end, a bit of time wasted isn¡¯t anything wrong.¡±

    After getting her thoughts straight, Erea then took a deep breath before continuing to walk down the Arcana Tower as normal, heading towards the spellbook marketce just like she nned to.

    As she continued to walk down, Erea could not help but let her thoughts fly everywhere.

    ¡®It¡¯s been a few months since I¡¯ve arrived in this world. Not only that, I was given an Animate body instead of an Inanimate one, unlike the game I used to y. But for some reason, the system I received was the same as the one in the game. Are the heavens merciful or merciless for giving me an Animate body?¡±

    Of course, the game she was thinking about was none other than Infinite Stick Evolution, an MMORPG that could be said to be made for masochists. Before moving onto her current life, she had been a renowned Goddess in the game with a power rank of 7, mostly known by yers as the Goddess of Ruination.

    But all of a sudden, a certain truck specialized in allowing people to reincarnate struck her as she was walking across the pedestrianne, sending her onto the six paths and letting her arrive into the world of Erudinia, equipped with a system given by who knows who and a wide knowledge base of the world she was in.

    Her only regret though was that she was not given an Inanimate body at the start, as for her, having an Inanimate body at the start would allow her to soar even higher than starting out with an Animate body.

    Although she regretted it, she didn¡¯t really regret it much as she knew she would eventually get back to her previous standing in the game. It¡¯s just that it was not a game anymore and it was now her life.

    ¡­

    After ten minutes or so, she had finally arrived at the marketce, easily making her way through the various spellbook stalls as she had been to this ce multiple times. It only took her a while to arrive at a spellbook stall that she was very familiar with. It was one of the stalls she frequented once she needed Level 0 Spells back then of the Water element.

    Just as she arrived in front of the stall, she hastily acquired the attention of the stall owner thanks to the color of her hair. With the stall owner¡¯s attention grabbed, the stall owner could not help but look at Erea and chuckle as she said, ¡°If it isn¡¯t Erea! How¡¯s it going? Have you transitioned to a higher ss yet?¡±

    Hearing the stall owner¡¯s voice, Erea could not help but promptly look at her and reply with a smile, ¡°It¡¯s been going well. I haven¡¯t transitioned yet, but I¡¯m very sure that I will do so very soon. If that happens Arte, I¡¯ll definitely treat you to a meal!¡±

    ¡°You¡¯ll have to keep that promise, okay?¡± Arte, the stall owner,ughed with glee at Erea¡¯s reponse. Eventually, her expression turned into that of someone doing business. ¡°So, what brings you here? You know very well that I only sell Water-based items and spells. Knowing you¡­are you needing a Lower Level 1 Spell?¡±

    ¡°Yep.¡± Erea nodded with a smile, agreeing with what she said.

    ¡°If that¡¯s the case, you¡¯re just in time!¡± Arte lightly chuckled as she turned around and rummaged through the bags she had hanging behind her. Eventually, she retrieved a faint blue spellbook from one of the bags and ced it on the stall counter.

    ¡°I got here a Lower Level 1 Water Spell, name¡¯s Aqua Sphere. It can attack and defend, as well as change shape. Price is 35 contribution points. Want it?¡±

    ¡°Can¡¯t you do 25?¡± Hearing the price of the spellbook, Erea¡¯s first decision was to haggle over the price. ¡°We¡¯ve known for a decently long time. I¡¯ve even treated you to a meal here and there! Can¡¯t you give your friend a discount?¡±

    ¡°Erea, this spellbook ain¡¯t cheap, just so you know. Well¡­ it¡¯s cheap¡­but not 25 points cheap. 30 points and I¡¯ll part ways with it.¡± Of course, Arte remembered what she had done with her, pondering over it for a bit before deciding to give her a discount.

    ¡°Deal!¡± Since the price was cut, Erea didn¡¯t decide to haggle any further as she knew that Arte had to make at least a bit of profit.

    After settling the transaction and obtaining the spellbook, Erea headed towards the higher floors of the Arcana Tower, heading towards her own secluded training room.

    As she walked up the stairs, she could not help but grip the spellbook she bought tightly as multiple ns formed in her mind.

    ¡°Once I learn this skill and do what teacher says, I¡¯ll eventually obtain a stronger Rank 3 ss. Once that happens, if my thoughts are correct, I¡¯ll have to learn a lot of Lower Level 1 Spells and perhaps some Higher Level 1 Spells.¡±

    ¡°I can¡¯t wait for mybat power to be stronger. Once that happens, I can finally do the ns I had formted back then!¡±

    ¡ª¡ª¨C

    [1] Dane¡¯s student,st seen in Chapter 30. It¡¯s been a very long time since we¡¯ve seen her, don¡¯t you think?

 Chapter 133: Disgustingly Strong

    Chapter 133: Disgustingly Strong

    While Erea was heading towards her own secluded training room, a discussion was happening between an Inanimate and an Animate inside a white space who knows where was ced.

    ¡­

    ¡°Why didn¡¯t you tell me earlier then?¡± Aurus could not help but be angry at Kevin as he glossed over the advantages that having a clone would give. If he had heard of these advantages back then when he was told that he was going to fall in great danager, then he might¡¯ve created a clone then and there. No, wait, he didn¡¯t have FP to do so.

    ¡°Well, don¡¯t me me.¡± Kevin could not help but sigh. He then exined his own thought process to Aurus, making sure he understood bit by bit. ¡°Back then, when you were still a weaker Inanimate, I told you that you would fall under a great danger, right?¡±

    ¡°Yeah, you did,¡± Aurus replied in agreement. How could he refute something that had happened?

    ¡°My expectation was that you would make sure to boost up your energy levels as fast as possible and make sure to trigger the skill before falling into danger. Ain¡¯t that the first thing one does when he or she hears something like that, even if the person who said it was quite skeptical?¡± Kevin lightly frowned as he continued exining his thought process.

    ¡°¡­¡± After hearing such things, Aurus could not help but be silent. Kevin was quite right on this one, it was basicallymon sense at this point! If someone were to me, it would be Aurus and his actions.

    As he continued to remain silent, he started to ponder over the actions he had done over the course of finishing the inheritance up till now. It was then that he realized.

    ¡°I¡¯ve be distracted,¡± he could not help but mutter to himself. Ever since he left the inheritance, the thought of making the clone was always on his mind, but it seemed that it was always hindered from happening. With such an obvious coincidence like that, he could not help but ask himself, ¡°Why though?¡±

    Eventually, he looked back at Kevin and let out a sigh. ¡°I¡¯m sorry for not following your words, Kevin. I tried boosting up my energy level as fast as possible, but hey, at least I¡¯ve achieved an energy level that surpasses the requirements, right?¡±

    Kevin could not help but blink a few times as a serious expression was stered on his face.

    ¡°We¡¯ll see.¡±

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    Not long after saying that, he raised both of his hands up and waved them around, forming a structure out of mana before directing it towards Aurus.

    Weeenngggg¡­.

    As the structure passed through Aurus¡¯ body, Aurus felt like he was going through a metal detector, getting the feeling of having all of his secrets exposed, something along the lines. Thankfully, it was only for a short while as the mana structure returned to Kevin and dispersed into motes of mana, being absorbed by him and interpreted into tangible information.

    A few secondster, all of the information from the structure was processed, prompting Kevin to say to Aurus, ¡°Well, your im of having more energy than required is correct. The amount of energy you have is more than enough to cast their spell, around two to three times than more than usual. Let me take a guess and say that it costs 2500 points of energy to cast the skill?¡±

    ¡°Yes, that would be correct,¡± Aurus responded and agreed with what Kevin said.

    ¡°How much energy points do you have at the moment?¡± With Aurus confirming his guess, Kevin then asked this question, making Aurus figuratively scratch his head.

    ¡°Hmm¡­let me see¡­¡± Aurus said, bringing up his own status screen.

    Ding!

    It did not take long for the status screen to pop up, but the numbers written on his screen was enough to make Aurus scream ¡°Wait¡­WHAT THE FUCK?!¡±

    ________

    [Aurus] (Level 20/20) {Substitute Ruler of the Void}

    Experience: MAX

    Species: Tempest Walnut Spiritas Flux (Rare+)

    Existence Level: Inanimate

    Grade: S

    [HP]: 99342/99342

    [FP]: 5804/5804

    [Life]: 125/125

    [Will]: 125/125

    Stats:

    [Tenacity]: 2228

    [Vitality]: 3620

    [Spirit]: 8702

    Synchronization Rate: 60%

    Unused Experience Points: 2741855

    Unused Genesis Points: 53

    ________

    ¡°Impossible¡­¡± Aurus could not believe it, nor could he digest the fact that he had these stats. With his current stats, he could already fight against X-grade Inanimates boosted by alliances evenly, and he could even possibly win against them. ¡°How did I get this strong¡­¡±

    Although he was still astounded as to how he had gotten this strongpared to thest time he checked his status screen, he eventually epted the fact that he had a lot of skills and stuff that boosted his stats, Allies and Titles being a good part of how his stats had inted so much.

    Of course, Kevin could sense the shock from the tone of Aurus¡¯ voice, prompting him to ask, ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡±

    Hearing Kevin ask him if he was okay, Aurus could not help but be a bit flustered as he forgot that Kevin was also with him. He figuratively cleared his throat and regained hisposure as he answered, ¡°Oh, it¡¯s nothing. It¡¯s just that¡­¡±

    Just as he was about to tell Kevin that nothing was wrong at all, a question popped in his mind, causing him to go silent for a bit before asking, ¡°Kevin, you do know about the grades of an Inanimate, right?¡±

    ¡°Yeah, I do. C, B, A, S, and X. What about it?¡± Kevin was perplexed for a bit, only to answer normally afterwards.

    After hearing Kevin¡¯s answer, he then asked, ¡°Can you see how much health¡­or durability in this case, does an Inanimate have before they die? If so, how much do X-grade Inanimates normally have?¡±

    The two questions Aurus asked caused Kevin to ponder in silence a bit. It took him a while to collect his thoughts before responding, ¡°I do have my ways in finding about the lifespan of an Inanimate, yes. Normally, their lifespan would be at around 20 to 30 points in Animate terms, 20 thousand to 30 thousand in Inanimate terms.¡±

    ¡°I see¡­¡± Aurus was then enlightened about the average strength of X-grade Inanimate beings, with 40 to 50 thousand being a decent estimate for those that joined an alliance. After realizing that he had over twice as much health than those normal X-grade Inanimates, he could not help but curse to himself, ¡°I¡¯m strong. Disgustingly strong. It¡¯s so fucking disgusting.¡±

    Eventually, he got over this and then said how much energy points he had to Kevin, of course, energy points being FP (Flux Points).

    ¡°ording to my system, I have 5804 points,¡± Aurus said to Kevin.

    ¡°5804 eh?¡± Although Kevin was somewhat surprised at Aurus obtaining a big amount of energy, this amount was not enough to astound him. He had seen other entities obtain even more energy than Aurus, but he still had a feeling that Aurus was special.

    ¡°5000 and close to a thousand points is enough to allow your clone to change existence levels, and even allow you to change its appearance however you want. Since you¡¯re pumping it with a lot of tour energy, it¡¯s a given that it¡¯ll end up very strong, which is beneficial for the resonance thing I talked about earlier,¡± Kevin exined to Aurus one more time about the clone.

    ¡°The only downside to it as that it takes a while for the clone to be created, but it would be ready to go a week from now at the very most,¡± Kevin also added, wanting to make sure Aurus remembered this part very well.

    ¡°Can only be ready a week from now at most¡­¡± Although a week seemed like a long time for Aurus, he did not mind it at all as he nned to boost his stats up to prepare for the inevitable fight between Chonk and his alliance. ¡°That¡¯s fine by me.¡±

    ¡°Alright then.¡± Kevin nodded as he left a few words of concern not long after. ¡°Before we part ways, make sure that your clone is at a ce near where you are so the resonance skill is always in effect.¡±

    ¡°Yep, I got it,¡± Aurus responded.

    Whoosh!

    And with that, Kevin¡¯s silhouette started to gradually fade from the white space as fragments of the white space were gradually being reced by the void. Eventually, Aurus¡¯ body started to fade as well as more and more fragments of the space turned into void until¡­

    Pop!

    The white space was gone, bringing Aurus back to where he previously was, the room filled with tons and tons of skill books within the Tempest Cliff Inheritance he owned.

    He looked around for a bit and made sure that he was at the inheritance, before making his way back to the green jade hall, and then out of the inheritance back to the alliance.

    ¡­

    Since the alliance was also located within the Tempest Cliff, it only took over 15 minutes for Aurus to arrive at the alliance¡¯s hall once more. As hended on the hall¡¯s floor, he could not help but sigh as the aura surrounding him turned serious.

    ¡°I have to create a clone and grind my skills up to a considerable level before being worthy of a fight against an Animate,¡± Aurus said to himself, recalling the powers of an Animate in ISE.

    Whenever Inanimate yers tried to fight against Animate yers, it would normally takes tens to hundreds of high-leveled Inanimate yers to critically wound the Animate, not even kill it.

    Although his stats seemed to surpass normal X-grade Inanimates, it was still not enough to bridge the gap in terms of conbat power. He still had to evolve to X-grade to do just that.

    With those three goals in mind, Aurus stood at the center of the hall in ce as he channeled all of his energy towards the outside of the body.

    Weeeengggg¡­

    A few secondster, a bright green energy started to envelope his body, forming a green sphere that was multiple times wider than Aurus¡¯ length.

    After he made sure that he had squeeze all of his Flux Points from his body, he then said two words, forcing all of the energy he channeled outwards to gather into a dense green sphere.

    Whoosh!

    ¡°[Spirit Clone]!¡±

 Chapter 134: Clone Creation

    Chapter 134: Clone Creation

    Tempest Cliff, Tempest Branch Alliance Hall.

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    In the center of the alliance hall, a green sphere made out of the Flux Points stored within Aurus¡¯ body was currently hovering in the air, upying a space that was around a third of the entire volume of the hall. Under the green sphere was Aurus, who waspletely focused on squeezing out all of the Flux Points inside his body towards the sphere.

    Eventually, he was able to squeeze all of the points out of his body, prompting him to move onto the next phase of where he was going to use the green sphere.

    ¡°[Spirit Clone]!¡± he shouted not long after squeezing all of his Flux Points out.

    Whoosh!

    At the very instant after he had finished saying those words, the green sphere that took up a third of the hall¡¯s space had shrunken down to a size where its diameter was equivalent to how tall Aurus was as a sculpture. In other words, not veryrge, but veryrge nheless.

    Ding!

    A few seconds after therge green sphere hadpressed down to a smaller and more condensed sphere of green energy, a notification resounded from his system as a semitransparent screen appeared in front of his field of vision, allowing him to still see the condensed green sphere hovering off the ground.

    Fwoosh!

    As tons of information appeared on the semitransparent screen regarding the specifications of Aurus¡¯ Spirit Clone, the green sphere started to warp into a ttened shape, making others think that it was about to burst. Fortunately, it hadn¡¯t burst as it gradually changed its shape to be that of a stick. A stick that closely resembled that of a C-grade Inanimate.

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡± Of course, Aurus could see the transformation of the green sphere happen behind the screen with his own sense of vision, but he paid more attention on the information written on the screen.

    ________

    Existence Level: Inanimate (can be upgraded)

    Species: Stick (can be altered)

    Grade: C-grade (can be upgraded)

    Appearance: Normal (can be altered)

    ________

    Although there were only four parameters rted to creating a Spirit Clone, those four parameters were enough to dictate how strong his clone would be, how unique it would be from its surroundings, and so on, and so forth.

    At the moment, he was currently experimenting with the parameters, trying to create a normal looking C-grade Inanimate twig that wouldn¡¯t stand out in a forest.

    After seeing that the green sphere behind the screem had adjusted to the parameters he had set and had created a stick that emanated the aura of a C-grade Inanimate, except for the fact that it emanated a bright green glow as an outline, he felt assured that he could create whatever clone he wanted.

    ¡°Well, with that test done, let¡¯s start making a human clone,¡± Aurus said to himself as he expanded the choices for the clone¡¯s existence level.

    Whoosh!

    _______

    Existence Level: Inanimate | Pseudo-Inanimate | Animate

    _______

    ¡°Hmmm¡­I could make a Pseudo-Inanimate,¡± Aurus could not help but mutter as he saw the option. As he looked at the option, he could not help but remember that there were some yers that chose to be a Pseudo-Inanimate, obtaining Godhood through another method that could be said to be somewhat easier than obtaining Godhood as an Animate.

    ¡°Sadly, that¡¯s not what I¡¯m aiming for right now,¡± Aurus could not help but think deeper and broader while choosing his clone. At first, he thought that he would make the clone so he could relive that feeling of seeing the world with his own vision from the Transcending Comprehension Leaf, but now, after thinking about the unavoidable war between his alliance and Chonk, it seemed that making an Animate clone would serve a greater purpose.

    To be honest, a Pseudo-Inanimate clone would truly help him in fighting against Chonk, but that would only give them a final resort, rather than a trump card that could turn the tides of battle. That¡¯s how strong Animates arepared to Pseudo-Inanimates at the beginning. Only at the beginning. The gap between the two sses grows smaller and smaller once they reach higher and higher tiers, until the two can be said to be basically inseparable.

    Nheless, as stated before, at the beginning stages, an Animate would have an edge over a Pseudo-Inanimate, which would give Aurus a trump card to use when fighting against Chonk because he knew very well that even with all of the strong Inanimates in the Tempest Branch Alliance, even if their number was multiplied by 5, it wouldn¡¯t even be enough to defeat Chonk, let alone kill him.

    Whoosh!

    And so, Aurus chose the Animate existence level and the species of a Human, the type of Animate he was most familiar with.

    Whoosh!

    Not long after choosing those two options, the green sphere, that was previously in the shape of a stick, had quickly warped itself to transform into the shape of a human. It only took a few seconds for the green sphere to warp, revealing an average human body, save for the fact that it had no facial features on and that it had no aura of power whatsoever.

    Of course, that was the next thing Aurus was going to tackle next, which was the grade of the clone he was going to make and its appearance.

    Whoosh!

    ________

    Grade: Rank 0 Animate | Rank 0 Strengthened Animate

    Appearance: Faceless (can be altered)

    ________

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡± As he looked at the two choices in terms of the clone¡¯s grade, he was at a crossroads as he could remember very well that a Rank 0 Animate and a Rank 0 Strengthened Animate has a great difference in power between them.

    A Rank 0 Animate had no sort of specialty whatsoever, a nk te if you will. As for a Rank 0 Strengthened Animate, it was basically a Rank 0 Animate, but with the added fact that it had undergone special training and has the ability to use a few Animate-level skills.

    After a minute, Aurus eventually chose to make the clone¡¯s grade that of a Rank 0 Animate.

    ¡°Although a Rank 0 Strengthened Animate would be nice to have a greater edge against Chonk, it wouldn¡¯t be nice when thinking about the future after we do kill Chonk. It is quite unavoidable for the system to mess with the specialization process of a Strengthened Animate. At least, I¡¯m quite assured of my path when I start off with a nk Animate,¡± Aurus muttered to himself after he thought it through, moving onwards to the appearance portion of his clone.

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    It did not take him long to adjust the clone¡¯s appearance, but it did take quite a while for his adjustments to appear on the warped green sphere. Eventually though, he was able to see his adjustments as he could not help but admire his clone¡¯s face.

    ¡°Just like how I used to look,¡± Aurus could not help butment as he looked at the clone from top to bottom. But not long after, he noticed that something on the clone was off and hurriedly made an adjustment as he said, ¡°Let¡¯s make that part a bit bigger.¡±

    Whoosh!

    And with that, all of the adjustments on his human clone had now been finished. With a height of 1.77 meters, his human clone, which he had based on his previous life¡¯s self, had pitch ck hair that looked like brown hair under the sunlight, ck irises that looked the vast space beyond the dim moonlight, a slightly handsome face shape that did not make his face stand out much, and eyebrows that exuded masculinity.

    After double checking all of the adjustments he had made on the clone through the semitransparent screen, he had finally confirmed all of his adjustments after using up around half an hour of time.

    Whoosh!

    At the very instant the semitransparent screen in front of his field of vision disappeared, the green sphere, which had taken the shape of a human, had reverted back to that of a sphere as another semitransparent screen had appeared in front of his field of vision, startling him quite a bit.

    ¡®Please choose the location where you¡¯d like your clone to be built.¡¯

    ¡°Ah, so this is what Kevin meant by the clone taking a while to be created,¡± Aurus muttered as he looked all over the hall for a bit, before deciding to ce the green sphere on the ceiling. As for his reason behind it, it was because it wouldn¡¯t be visible to the normal members of the alliance. He would surely tell Herellia about it since she was the leader of the alliance.

    Ding!

    With the clone now in the process of being built, a timer had appeared on the top left portion of his field of vision, small enough to be not obstruct his usual tasks, but big enough to be eye-catching every once in a while.

    ¡®Time remaining: 03:23:59:59¡¯

    ¡°4 days, huh. I guess that¡¯s enough time to do what I need to do,¡± Aurus pondered over the time given to him by the system and decided to change his schedule of strengthening to fit that of his clone¡¯s full creation.

    He was going to do everything he could within these 4 days. After that, he would solely focus on strengthening his Animate clone as much as possible.

    Whoosh!

    And with that, Aurus headed towards the small ecosystem owned by the Tempest Branch Alliance, about to start his grinding spree.

 Chapter 135: Unprecedented Improvement

    Chapter 135: Unprecedented Improvement

    A few minutes have passed since Aurus created his Animate clone in order to mainly relive the feeling of transcending the world. Of course, it was also made as a trump card against Chonk¡¯s existence level, which he had to inform Herellia about it sooner orter.

    At the moment, he had already arrived at the small ecosystem owned by the alliance, heading towards the tower where he had secluded himself back then in preparation for breaking through to S-grade Inanimate. Thisi time though, he would be secluding himself for 4 days, grinding all of his skills to its limit, as well as breaking through to X-grade Inanimate.

    With his current power, he could already fight against X-grade Inanimates with a clear advantage. If he evolved to X-grade, it might not be an impossibility for him to have an edge over an Animate.

    Thud!

    Not long after entering the tower, he picked a decently sized secluded room for his needs before he mmed the door to the room shut, allowing him to be alone.

    Whoosh.

    Ding!

    Just as he was calming his emotions down and collecting his thoughts as to what he was going to do next, a notification resounded from the system, which Aurus could not help but look at.

    ¡®[Greater Illusion Resistance] has leveled up.¡¯

    ¡®[Greater Illusion Resistance] has reached the MAX level.¡¯

    ¡®[Greater Illusion Resistance] has met the necessary requirements and is ready to evolve.

    ¡®[Spirit Aura] has leveled up.¡¯

    ¡°Well¡­¡± Aurus could not help but look at these two skills that notified him, recalling a few secondster that these skills were the skills he had put into the Learning module of the system. He took out [Greater Illusion Resistance] from the Learning module and then pondered for a bit before taking out [Spirit Aura] from the module as well. [Spirit Aura] was already halfway from being maxed anyway.

    He did not put any skills back into the module, as he knew that the effects of the Transcending Comprehension Leaf he had absorbed back in the inheritance was more powerful than just passively grinding skill experience.

    ¡°Evolve [Greater Illusion Resistance],¡± Aurusmanded not long after his thinking session, prompting a holographic screen to appear in front of his field of vision.

    Ding!

    ________

    Please choose the skill that you would like [Greater Illusion Resistance] to evolve into:

    [Superb Illusion Resistance]

    [Miraculous Illusion Mirror]

    ________

    With two skill evolution paths to choose from, he hurriedly skimmed over the descriptions of the two skills and chose [Superb Illusion Resistance] in the end, continuing with the path of having a chance to fully negate an illusion from affecting him.

    Ding!

    ¡®[Greater Illusion Resistance] has been evolved into [Superb Illusion Resistance].¡¯

    ¡°With that out of the way¡­¡± Seeing as he quickly finished that problem, he then started to mutter to himself as he was formting a n in his mind. Around thirty secondster, a solid n was made in his mind, wherein Aurusmanded the system.

    ¡°Summon Fenrir and Charisa.¡±

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    Not long after, two entities that were made out of wood, with one exuding an intense aura of Wind and the other one exuding an intense aura of me, appeared in front of Aurus¡¯ field of vision, doing their own versions of kneeling down in front of Aurus to show their respect.

    ¡°You have summoned me, Master,¡± the being that exuded an aura of Wind replied, wagging its tail back and forth as it was unable to hide its excitement from being summoned.

    ¡°Oya? Master? You summoned me? Is it because you needed me for special purpose~?¡± Beside the being that exuded an aura of Wind, the being that exuded an aura of me could not help but talk in a slightly seductive manner as its mes glowed brightly in expectation.

    ¡°Fenrir, Charisa, I¡¯m d to see you in front of me again,¡± Aurus could not help but radiate an aura of happiness after seeing the two allies he had summoned in front of him. To be honest, for Aurus, seclusion was incredibly boring so having allies to help him not be bored while growing stronger themselves was pretty great.

    ¡°It is also great to see you again, Master!¡± The first one to reply to Aurus¡¯ words was Fenrir, who stood up as he wagged his wooden tail back and forth in excitement. Not long after, it looked around its current surroundings, prompting it to ask, ¡°Ah. Master, you wanted us to apany you while you train?¡±

    ¡°Pretty much,¡± Aurus replied in a nonchnt manner as he was nning on which skills to focus grinding first.

    As it was her first time, Charisa tilted her head me and asked, ¡°Master, why do you need us to apany you here? Are you that lonely?¡±

    ¡°It is quite lonely, plus it¡¯s a chance to bond with one another for a long time,¡± Aurus replied with a bit more vigor this time as he could not formte a list of skills to nurture. ¡°I won¡¯t be keeping you guys in the system for 4 days. That¡¯s how long I¡¯ll be strengthening myself.¡±

    ¡°Oh!¡± Charisa was quite excited to be out in the same world as her Master for a long time. As for Fenrir, although he had been together with Aurus back then in the same type of room for a long time, he could not help but feel grateful to be Aurus¡¯ ally.

    ¡°System, show me my skills!¡± In the end, Aurus decided tomand the system to show all of his skills and make his decision there.

    Ding!

    And it was at this moment that¡­Aurus regretted the decision.

    ______

    Hybrid Ruler Skills:

    [Zenith Nihility Dash Lv. 1], [Wrath of the Void Lv. 1], [Protection of the Void Lv. 1], [Formless Void Lv. 1]

    Passive Ruler Skills:

    [Void¡¯s Grace Lv. 1]

    Active ss Skills:

    [Middle-High Spirit Spell Core (Wind Variant) Lv. 6], [Zenith Spirit Transcendence Lv. 1], [Supreme Spirit-Vitality Unification Lv. 1], [Better Flux Weapon Creation Lv. 1)], [Better Flux Armor Creation Lv. 1/3], [Better Flux Enchantment Lv. 1], [Better Flux Sacrifice Lv. 1]

    Passive ss Skills:

    [Zenith Purity Spirit Energy Core (Wind Variant) Lv. 5], [Spiritas Seed Lv. 10], [Spiritas Flux Seed Lv. 20], [Flux Weapon Mastery Lv. 20], [Flux Armor Mastery Lv.20], [Nine Flux Transformation Lv. 6], [Expanded Flux Vessel Lv. 1], [Ninth Purity Heavenbinding Essence Transformation (Special) Lv. 1]

    Active Species Skills:

    [Instantaneous Spiritas Movement (Special) Lv.7], [Spirit Sword of Seven Hells (Rare) Lv. 13], [Myriad Manifestation Polymorph Lv. 3], [Spiritas Rage Lv. 1], [Spiritas Fortress Lv. 1], [Formosus Exuberance Lv. 1], [Void Gale Spirit Shift Lv. 3], [Spirit Clone Lv.1], [Spirit Aura (Rare) Lv. 10], [Alliance Call], [Judgement], [Unyielding Barrier of the Spiritas Magnus (Special) Lv. 1], [Soul Transcendence]

    Hybrid Species Skills:

    [Soul Morphosis Lv. 1]

    Passive Species Skills:

    [Soul Perception III Lv. 9], [Infinite Tempest Affinity Lv.1], [Zenith Purity Spiritas SP Vessel Lv. 12], [Stick-Flux Unification (Special) Lv. 1], [Seeker of Two Destinies Lv. 5], [Grand Vessel of Higher Sentience Lv. 5], [Superb Illusion Resistance Lv. 1], [Blessing of the Zenith Tempest (Special) Lv. 1], [Power of the Alliance (Pir S-grade Variant) Lv. 5], [Blessing of the Reincarnation Goddess Lv.MAX]

    Active Life and Will Skills:

    [Blooming Vitality++ Lv. 1], [Indomitable Will++ Lv. 1], [Sentience++ Lv. 1]

    ______

    ¡°Oh my fucking god,¡± Aurus could not help but curse after looking at the sheer amount of skills he currently had, with some not even being used by him. Unfortunately, the system did not allow him to remove skills he had learned. If the system allowed him to do so, he would¡¯ve removed a great amount of skills from the list in front of him already.

    Although he was given a clusterfuck of skills to choose from, he calmed himself down and thought about the skills he would be grinding more logically.

    ¡°What skills would give me the greatest boost to my strength at the moment?¡± As Aurus had incredibly strong Soul Power, it only took him a moment to decide that he would be grinding the Ruler skills he got from bing a Substitute Ruler of the Void.

    The Ruler¡¯s words still lingered in his mind after all this time,mitting the requirements needed to enhance his position to a higher level.

    ¡°In order to raise your standing in bing a Ruler of the Void, you must firstprehend and expound to at least Peak Mortal level the skills I¡¯m about to give you.¡±

    Along the way home from the inheritance, he had been using [Movement of the Void] to enhance his movement speed to unimaginable heights, ending up reaching the X-grade form of the skill, which was named [Zenith Nihility Dash].

    He still had four skills to grind to X-grade from the Ruler skills given to him though, namely: [Wrath of the Void], [Protection of the Void], [Formless Void], and [Void¡¯s Grace].

    He knew how to enhance the first three skills as he could just activate them and let them be, passively grinding experience as he did something else, but he did not know how to level up [Void¡¯s Grace].

    ¡°Speaking of which, what is it anyway?¡± While Aurus was muttering like a madman under the vision of Fenrir and Charisa, he brought up the description of the skill, gaining a greater yet more vague understanding of how the skill worked.

    Ding!

    ________

    [Void¡¯s Grace]

    Grade: C (Mortal)

    As a Ruler of the Void, the Law of the Void supports your power, allowing you to exert the pressure of the void in your attacks. It also allows you to enhance skills rted to the void, which befits the position of the Ruler of the Void.

    ________

    ¡°So, it enhances skills based on the void. If so, why hasn¡¯t it leveled up after I used [Movement of the Void] a ton of times?¡± This question could not help but pop up as he pondered over the description. In the end, he decided to just focus on the first three skills for now, starting with the [Wrath of the Void].

    Just like the name itself, [Wrath of the Void] increases his attacking power. It¡¯s pretty much how [Movement of the Void] increases his movement speed, how [Protection of the Void] increases his defense, and how [Formless Void] increases¡­no fucking clue as to what.

    ¡°[Wrath of the Void]!¡± he lightly shouted, startling Fenrir and Charisa who were silently looking at him.

    Crackle. Crackle.

    Not long after, a hazy dark energy started to cover Aurus¡¯ body like a thin sheet of dark yet translucent fabric, with sparks emerging here and there. After the dark energy covered the entirety of Aurus¡¯ body, he now exuded the aura of an imprable and invincible dark de that could cut anything in its way.

    Ding!

    ¡®[Wrath of the Void] has leveled up.¡¯

    ¡®[Wrath of the Void] has reached the MAX level.¡¯

    ¡®[Wrath of the Void] has met the necessary requirements and is ready to evolve.¡¯

    ¡°Well¡­that was fast.¡± It was already Aurus¡¯ second time experiencing a speedy level up of his skills, but he was still amazed at how fast it was. He did not hesitate to evolve it to its B-grade form, gaining the name [de of Emptiness].

    With the skill still activated, the shape of the energy surrounding Aurus gradually changed, with most of the energy congregating towards one end of Aurus¡¯ body. From the side, it looked like Aurus was the handle to an extremely short dark de. An extremely short dark de that emanated a pretty strong aura, that is.

    ¡°I just have to continue using this while grinding my other skills and-¡± Just as he was talking to himself about his ns, he felt a pulse course through his body. This pulse was like¡­the pulse of a heart.

    Trying to feel this pulse one more time, Aurus closed his sense of vision and tried to pinpoint where this feeling was¡­only to find that the feeling was where his soul was.

    ¡°This feeling¡­it feels like I¡¯m being cleansed by the void,¡± Aurus could not help but say to himself as the pulse grew stronger and stronger in its intensity, gradually covering Aurus¡¯ body in this feeling.

    Thump. Thump. Thump.

    It was at that time that¡­he finally realized how he was supposed to level [Void¡¯s Grace].

    ¡°Resonate with the void. Be one with the void.¡±

    Ding!

    ¡®[Void¡¯s Grace] has leveled up.¡¯

    ¡®[Void¡¯s Grace] has reached the MAX level.¡¯

    ¡®[Void¡¯s Grace] has met the necessary requirements and is ready to evolve.¡¯

    ¡°Evolve [Void¡¯s Grace].¡± Without hesitation, Aurusmanded the system to evolve the newly maxed skill as he asked Fenrir and Charisa, ¡°Do you two feel bored doing nothing?¡±

    ¡°Not at all, Master,¡± Fenrir was the first one to reply. ¡°To be honest, just being around you is enough to make me content.¡±

    ¡°Same for me, Master~!¡± Charisa exuberantly replied. ¡°It¡¯s my first time being around with you for a long time so you give me this fuzzy yet warm feeling~¡±

    Ding!

    ¡®[Void¡¯s Grace]¡¯ has been evolved to [Will of the Void].¡¯

    ¡°Well, you know, I kind of feel bad for summoning you two out here without having any task for you two to do,¡± Aurus said to the two after making sure that the skill had evolved. He was thinking of something for the two to do until a good idea entered his mind.

    ¡°Fenrir. Charisa. Let me see if there¡¯s some good stuff in the alliance market for you two to level up and stuff.¡±

    ¡°If that¡¯s what the Master wants us to do, I don¡¯t mind,¡± Fenrir replied, knowing that he had not trained his skills whatsoever ever since he became Aurus¡¯ ally.

    ¡°Ooh! I wonder if I¡¯ll grow stronger once I train my skills~ How strong can I get~¡± As for Charisa, she felt curious and expectant for what training would bring her.

    ¡°Open the Alliance Market!¡± Aurus said to the system, opening up a holographic screen that revealed a decent amount of skills to choose from.

    Aurus then skimmed through the avable skills in the alliance market, abruptly stopping on a certain skill that he could not believe existed.

    ¡°This¡­¡±

    ¡°This is impossible, right?¡±

 Chapter 136: Aurus the Teacher

    Chapter 136: Aurus the Teacher

    Tempest Branch Alliance, within one of the secluded rooms found within the training tower.

    Ding!

    A holographic screen appeared in front of Aurus¡¯ field of vision aftermanding the system to bring up the Alliance Market, which the system did without fail.

    In an instant, a wider selection of skills was brought to Aurus¡¯ view, considering the fact that he was now a Pir level member of the alliance. At the moment, he could now browse around 20 skills from the market at the same time,pared to the 5 or so that was avable to him back then when he was an Executive level member.

    Some of them did not stand out to him, either because he had no use for them, or because he already had a variant of such a skill already. Many of them garnered a bit of his interest, making him look at the description of the skill for a bit before moving on, or deciding whether to pick it up or not.

    But only a single skill truly caught Aurus¡¯ eye as he could not help but mutter, ¡°This¡­¡±

    ¡°This is impossible, right?¡±

    Hearing these wordse out of Aurus¡¯ mouth, Charisa could not help but tilt her head me to lean closer to where Aurus was and ask, ¡°Oh? What¡¯s impossible, Master?¡±

    Ding!

    Without hesitation, Aurus brought up the description of the skill in front of his vision for him to know whether the name of the skill truly did what it¡¯s said to do, or if it was just a farce of sorts.

    _________

    [Skill Impartation]

    Grade: C (Mortal)

    Expounding and enhancing skills, the force that makes beings strive further to be stronger and better versions of themselves. Once one reaches a peak, they wish to establish a force, an organization that follows the skills used by the being. This skill allows the user to teach skills to those it wants to teach.

    Note that the taught skill would be the most basic version of the skill, the one who is taught the skill must exert their own effort to reach the same level of skill as the user.

    ________

    ¡°I¡¯m¡­not dreaming,¡± Aurus muttered once more, prompting Charisa to ask one more time, ¡°What¡¯s happening to you, Master? Are you losing it? Do you need our help?¡±

    ¡°Huh?¡± Charisa¡¯s question brought Aurus out of his daze, making him recall the question that Charisa asked him a while ago. It took him a while to formte an answer, saying, ¡°I¡¯m fine, I¡¯m fine. I¡¯m just surprised that such a skill exists that would let you two have some things to do other than wait.¡±

    ¡°But we¡¯re fine with doing nothing though?¡± Fenrir and Charisa responded at the same time. If it was any other time, Aurus would respect their decisions and let them do nothing other than apany him in his grinding spree to power, but since Chonk wasing to wage war against the Tempest Branch Alliance sooner orter, he decided that his two allies would also give additional firepower to fight against them.

    The reason why he said that he felt bad for summoning the two of them earlier with them doing nothing for now was because he was going to put them in the same state as him one way or another. With this skill though¡­it would put them under a state slightly worse than his because they did not absorb any Comprehension Leaf of any grade.

    Ding!

    ¡®You have obtained [Skill Impartation].¡¯

    Without hesitation, Aurus bought [Skill Impartation] for no cost from the Alliance Market. The reason to this was because Pir level members are what hold the alliance together, so it wouldn¡¯t make sense for the Pirs to be weak. Hence, this was the case.

    After learning the skill, Aurus then closed all of the holographic screens in front of his field of vision and asked the two of them, ¡°Are you two fine with grinding experience for all of your skills to their maximum levels?¡±

    ¡°We don¡¯t have a problem with that, Master,¡± Fenrir was the first one to respond, with Charisa nodding her head me. ¡°Our sole purpose is to follow the Master¡¯smands, everything else is secondary.¡±

    ¡°Yep, yep! That¡¯s why you shouldn¡¯t feel bad for making us do nothing!¡± Charisa responded after Fenrir with a cheerful aura around her, only to then change her aura as she said not long after, ¡°Oh, wait. That kind of sounds off.¡±

    ¡°Well¡­since both of you agree with grinding skills, can you grind all of your current skills to the peak Mortal level?¡± Aurus asked the two of them, to which the two responded affirmatively.

    ¡°We can do that, Master,¡± Fenrir responded in a respectful manner. ¡°Many of my skills, thanks to your hasty levelling, have stagnated at around B-grade and A-grade, so it is truly fine, Master.¡±

    Hearing these wordse out of Fenrir, Aurus could not help but apologize to him. ¡°I¡¯m seriously sorry about that Fenrir. The thought of letting you grind your skills flew away from my mind whenever you were out helping me. This time though, you can take as much time as you want grinding your skills up.¡±

    After saying those words, he then looked at Charisa and asked, ¡°How about you, Charisa? Are you fine with grinding your skills to the peak Mortal level?¡±

    Charisa responded in a cheerful tone, ¡°Yep~! That¡¯s fine with me~¡±

    But not long after, she added, ¡°But I would have to take a longer time doing that since most of my skills are at C and B-grade. If Master brought me out to fight, it would probably be a different oue, heheh.¡±

    Aurus could not help but feel apologetic to Charisa as well. What she said was true as Aurus had only levelled and evolved Charisa before keeping her inside the system. Unlike Fenrir, she truly had no time to use her skills.

    As they started to grind their skills out, he decided toe close to Charisa first to try out the new skill he obtained.

    ¡°Charisa, do you mind if I test some skill I just got on you?¡± he asked.

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    While Charisa¡¯s mes were swaying to and fro, she replied, ¡°As long as it doesn¡¯t hurt me or anything, I don¡¯t mind~ I have to keep my beauty, you know~¡±

    ¡°I promise it won¡¯t hurt,¡± Aurus lightly chuckled as he said not long after, ¡°[Skill Impartation]!¡±

    Ding!

    Not long after reciting the skill¡¯s name, a holographic screen appeared in front of his field of vision, revealing all of the skills he had currently learned, with many of them being cked out. Only some were glowing, which meant that they could be imparted to other beings.

    ¡®Please choose the skill you would like to impart,¡¯ the system¡¯s monotonous voice resounded within his mind.

    He looked through the possible skills he could impart, thinking about the order at which he could impart these skills. In the end, he decided that it did not matter at which order they learned the skills since they would still grind it up in the end anyway.

    ¡°I choose [Formosus Exuberance].¡± After casting out the thoughts of skill learning order, Aurus decided to impart Charisa a healing skill. Surely, anyone would like to learn a healing skill as well in order for them to survive for longer, right?

    Whoosh!

    Not long after, a green mote of light then started to hover above Aurus¡¯ sculpture head, radiating a gentle yet powerful energy. Nheless, since Fenrir and Charisa knew that their master was experimenting with a new skill, they paid it no heed.

    Ding!

    ¡®Please select a target to impart the skill on,¡¯ the monotonous voice then resounded throughout his mind one more time, giving him two targets to choose from.

    ¡°I choose Charisa.¡± Of course, Aurus chose Charisa as he obtained her consent first. He would also do the same thing to Fenrir after he had imparted all of the useful skills he could impart to Charisa.

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    Not long after choosing Charisa as the target, the green mote of light hovering above Aurus¡¯ sculpture head changed color, turning into that of dark red.

    This mote of light then headed towards Charisa, who subconsciously absorbed the mote of light.

    Ding!

    ¡®You have imparted the skill [Formosus Exuberance] to Charisa. After adapting to the target¡¯s species, [Formosus Exuberance] has been transformed to the C-grade level [me Healing].¡¯

    ¡°Eh?!¡± A few seconds after obtaining the notification, a surprised scream came out of Charisa, prompting her to look at her master, Aurus.

    ¡°Master, did you do this? I instantly learned a skill named [me Healing]¡­did thise from you, Master?¡± Due to the shock, Charisa could not focus on grinding her skills, making her ask this question.

    ¡°Yes, and by the looks of it, it works,¡± Aurus responded with glee. ¡°This is the new skill I obtained which allows me to teach you two some skills that I know.¡±

    He then turned to Fenrir and said, ¡°Fenrir, I¡¯ll be teaching you some skillster as well. I hope you don¡¯t mindingst.¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t mind at all, Master,¡± Although Fenrir answered in a nonchnt tone, Fenrir¡¯s tail wagged back and forth at a great speed, unable to hide his excitement of being more connected with his master.

    ¡°And with that¡­¡± Aurus then turned to look back at Charisa to ask, ¡°Are you ready to learn more skills, Charisa?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m always ready, Master~! Even you tell me to bend over, I¡¯d do it~¡± Charisa responded with exuberance.

    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!

    And so, Aurus imparted three more skills for Charisa to learn, increasing her repertoire of skills to use in future fights. The skills that Aurus imparted were his escape cum movement skill, [Void Gale Spirit Shift], his stat boosting skill, [Zenith Spirit Transcendence], and his defensive skill, [Unyielding Barrier of the Spiritas Magnus].

    Of course, with the first impartation Aurus did, maxing out the skill, it was evolved to the B-grade Mortal skill [Greater Skill Impartation], allowing the next three skills to be imparted to start at B-grade Mortal.

    He then moved on to Fenrir to impart the same four skills he imparted to Charisa. But this time, the skill had reached it maximum level again, evolving into the A-grade Mortal skill [Wisdom Transportation]. All of the skills that were imparted to Fenrir started at A-grade, even his defensive skill, which was still at B-grade.

    All of these skills adapted to the bodies of the two, allowing the skills to show its 100% efficiency when used by them. While imparting these skills, he did have thoughts of using it on the alliance¡¯s members for them to also grow stronger, but he had the thought that Herellia might have done that already since it was impossible for her to not have learned the skill as well.

    And so, with his imparting spree done, Aurus went back to grinding out his Ruler skills, which would allow his title to rise in rank.

    At this time, he could not help but ask himself, ¡°Am I forgetting something?¡±

 Chapter 137: Raising the Ruler Rank

    Chapter 137: Raising the Ruler Rank

    While most of the members of the Tempest Branch Alliance were under extreme pressure, pushing themselves to their limits as they tried to raise their strength as much as possible¡­

    A situation that greatly contrasted what was happening in the Tempest Branch Alliance was currently uring within a certain part of the Tempest Cliff.

    This part of the Tempest Cliff was filled to the brim with flowers. Of course, ordinary flowers don¡¯t fill this part, but instead, flowers that were the size of trees.

    In the center of this humongous flower field, there existed a wide building made out of the stems of these humongous flowers, which was the base of the Blossom Breeze Alliance.

    At this moment, a great chunk of the Blossom Breeze Alliance was currently burning due to the material that made up the building being mmable.

    ¡°Aghhh!!!¡± Of course, since a huge part of the Blossom Breeze Alliance was burnt, it was inevitable that some members of the Blossom Breeze Alliance would get caught on fire and be burned alive.

    Since many of the Blossom Breeze¡¯s members greatly focused on the illusory arts, their weak defenses brought their early downfall, only leaving their strongest and most tanky members surviving as they left the building, looking at the culprit that did it.

    ¡°How is the battle going?¡± While these members stared at the culprit, the culprit, on the other hand, was nonchntly asking one of its servants for the current condition of the fight.

    Of course, the servant could not help but respectfully answer, ¡°Master, the battle is leaning towards our favor, with most of ourbat power still alive. Out of the 50 people we have, 2 have only been lightly injured. Judging by our current state, we would be able to wipe the Blossom Breeze Alliance pretty soon.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s great,¡± the culprit could not help but smile, revealing its fangs as it decided to focus its attention on the remaining members of the Blossom Breeze Alliance.

    This culprit was none other than Chonk, the instigator of the fight between thete Verdant Nut Alliance, and the current instigator of the fight between his group and the Blossom Breeze Alliance.

    ¡°After this, we also have to fight against the Tempest Branch Alliance. Tell the others to not get injured as much as possible.¡± Although Chonk was looking at the remaining Blossom Breeze members that were seething in rage, it still decided to pass on orders to the servant beside him.

    ¡°Hey!¡± As the servant beside Chonk respectfully bowed before leaving, one of the remaining members of the Blossom Breeze Alliance could not help but shout at Chonk, catching his attention.

    Chonk slowly turned his head to look at the member who shouted. He then released the full extent of his Rank 1 Animate aura before saying, ¡°What is it?¡±

    As Chonk released his full aura, the remaining members could not help but roll back in fear, knowing very well that they could not fight against someone at the Animate level, let alone an Animate that has transitioned to a Rank 1 ss.

    So, with only their pride holding them, that same member asked Chonk in a loud voice, ¡°Why are you doing this? What did the Blossom Breeze Alliance do to you?¡±

    ¡°Why am I doing this?¡± Chonk repeated the question softly beforeughing. ¡°What a stupid question, but I¡¯ll entertain you.¡±

    Whoosh!

    In an instant, Chonk dashed towards that member at a speed that the member could not perceive, appearing behind it as he said, ¡°Well¡­the three alliances are a hindrance to my path towards controlling the whole Tempest Cliff.¡±

    ¡°Is that a sufficient answer?¡± Chonk asked the member, who was deeply rooted in ce from fear while the other remaining members ran away, all for the safety of their lives. Unfortunately, they were killed by Chonk¡¯s people, leaving the member that asked the question alive.

    Swish!

    As the member still stood there, Chonk raised his right paw as multiple particles of Wind energy coalesced around it before swiping down on the member, effectively cutting the sole member into multiple parts.

    ¡°And with that¡­¡±

    ¡°How about you die for my path?¡±

    ¡­

    While the war between Chonk¡¯s people and the Blossom Breeze Alliance was happening¡­

    Within the Tempest Branch Alliance, the Tower of Seclusion.

    Ding!

    A notification resounded throughout Aurus¡¯ mind, causing him to sigh in disbelief at the speed at which he was training his skills.

    ¡°Within an hour, I already got all of the Ruler skills to X-grade Mortal level,¡± Aurus said to himself as he evolved thest Ruler skill that was still not at X-grade Mortal level, the S-grade form of [Will of the Void], [Nihility¡¯s Voice].

    ¡®[Nihility¡¯s Voice] has been evolved to [Serenade of the Universe].¡¯

    Whoosh!

    Not long after, from a ce unknown, a rift in space appeared above Aurus¡¯ head, releasing a dark yet powerful energy that could make the hairs of multiple Animates stand up in fear.

    Although Aurus could sense this energy, Fenrir and Charisa could not, engrossed in their grinding spree. As for the reason why this was the case, Aurus did not know, moving this question at the back of his mind as the dark yet powerful gradually enveloped his body and seeped in through the pores, melding with each and every Anima and Flux that made up his body.

    Not long after, an aura started to be released from his body, giving anyone the feeling that Aurus was the embodiment of the void. Of course, this was just a transient feeling as a notification appeared in front of his field of vision.

    Ding!

    ¡®Your title has been upgraded.¡¯

    ¡®[Substitute Ruler of the Void] has been upgraded to [Assistant Ruler of the Void].¡¯

    After reading this notification, Aurus could not help but exude a cheerful aura as he had done what he wanted to do. In fact, he was quite surprised that he had done so within the span of an hour, raising 4 skills from C-grade Mortal to X-grade Mortal.

    Within an hour, he had¡­

    Upgraded [Wrath of the Void] to its X-grade form, [Dark Universal de]¡­

    Upgraded [Protection of the Void] to its X-grade form, [Imprable Shield of Nil]¡­

    Upgraded [Formless Void] to its X-grade form, [All-epassing Nothingness] and¡­

    Just recently, upgraded [Void¡¯s Grace] to its X-grade form, [Serenade of the Universe].

    Just from that, he had a feeling that he would be able to raise almost all of his skills to C-grade Transcendent level in less than 4 days, which was the minimum goal he set within these 4 days. If that were the case, he would of course aim higher. B-grade Transcendent, A-grade Transcendent and so on, if he could achieve it, then it was more assurance for the inevitable battle.

    As he was about to move onto the other skills he was going to level up, a familiar voice resounded in his mind. This voice could not help but make him remember the Area 52 Inheritance he had just got out of. It was the voice of the Ruler of the Void he had chosen to learn under.

    ¡°Congrattions for rising a rank above the rest,¡± the Void Ruler said to Aurus. Aurus did not know whether he would say thank you or something else to this ruler as it continued to speak.

    ¡°At your current rank, you are an Earthbound Ruler, but there are still three more ranks to progress until you be the same level as me, a Voidbound rank Ruler,¡± the Void Ruler continued to talk.

    ¡°In order to ascend to the next rank of bing a Ruler, you must take the skills you have expounded upon and make them transcend mortality and go further, bing a decently strong skill amongst the multiple transcended skills out there.¡±

    After that, the voice of the Void Ruler dissipated one more time, with a notification appearing in exchange.

    Ding!

    ¡®To raise your rank, please upgrade all of your Ruler skills to A-grade Transcendent.¡¯

    ¡°Oh, the Ruler shouldn¡¯t have to go and use all of those flowery words if he just wanted me to achieve this,¡± Aurus could not help but say to himself. ¡°A-grade Transcendent, huh. I¡¯ll set the Ruler skills aside as I¡¯ve already leveled them up.¡±

    ¡°For now though, it¡¯s time to focus on my other skills,¡± Aurus said in a cheerful tone, proceeding to dive down his massive list of skills and grind them out to C-grade Transcendent level.

 Chapter 138: The Grand Grind

    Chapter 138: The Grand Grind

    Tempest Branch Alliance, Tower of Seclusion.

    After finishing his grind that needed the Ruler skills to be at X-grade Mortal, he was able to raise his Ruler Rank, bing an Assistant Ruler of the Void. After he obtained the title, he felt a definite change in his power. He definitely wanted to check his stats right now, but he thought that it was better to grind all of his skills first before checking his stats.

    And so, that¡¯s what he did.

    The first batch of skills he focused on were the Flux skills he obtained from evolving to S-grade Inanimate. Namely, the Flux equipment creation skills, the enchantment skill, the sacrifice skill, and the storage skill for Flux. Although thetter was now obsolete due to [Stick-Flux Unification], a little still went a long way.

    Thanks to the Transcending Comprehension Leaf, it only took him 3 hours to raise all of these Flux-based skills, which were at B-grade Mortal, to his current goal, which was C-grade Transcendent level.

    [Better Flux Weapon Creation] was now called [Unworldly Flux Weapon Fabrication], while [Better Flux Armor Creation] was now called [Unworldly Flux Armor Fabrication]. As for [Better Flux Enchantment] and [Better Flux Sacrifice], they were now called [Third Heaven Flux Enhancement] and [Grand Flux Samsara] respectively.

    As for the storage skill, [Expanded Flux Vessel], it was now called [Flux Chiliocosm], giving Aurus a few hundred more Flux points to work with.

    The next set of skills he proceeded to grind were his offensive skills, as well his skills that boosted offensive power. [Middle-High Spirit Spell Core], [Zenith Spirit Transcendence], [Zenith Purity Spirit Energy Core], and [Spirit Sword of Seven Hells], which were all at X-grade Mortal, took only 2 hours to transform into C-grade Transcendent level skills. Their new names were now [High Spirit Spell Core], [Grand Spiritas Deification], [Otherworldly Spiritas Energy Core], and [Spelldes of Nonagon Domination] respectively, with thest skill being specifically chosen by Aurus as the new form of the skill resembled its previous form.

    Aurus then moved onto grinding out his movement skills, as well as his supportive skills, which were namely [Instantaneous Spiritas Movement], [Void Gale Spirit Shift], [Formosus Exuberance], and [Unyielding Barrier of the Spiritas Magnus].

    This took Aurus around 3 hours to do, turning them into [Transient Spiritas Dash], [False Nil Teleportation], [Heavenly Spiritas Revival], and [Unbreakable Spiritas Flux Shield] respectively. For his defensive skill, he could not help but let out a sigh of relief as the name was shortened by a bit.

    After that, the next skills he focused on grinding were the remaining skills he had not grinded yet, which were mostly passive and misceneous skills.

    He focused on [Soul Perception III] first, taking 40 minutes to achieve its C-grade Transcendent form, [Eye of the Soul]. He then moved onto [Myriad Manifestation Polymorph], taking 20 minutes to evolve it to [Infinite Primordial Morph]. After that, he focused on [Soul Morphosis], which was at C-grade Mortal all this time. Taking around 30 minutes or so, he was able to evolve it to [Nine Worlds Soul Morphosis], allowing him to show greater control over his soul vessel when needed, while suppressing his incredibly high soul power in the process, bringing it to the level of an S-grade Inanimate.

    He then focused on [Spirit Aura], which was halfway to its maximum level after being put into the Learning module. In contrast, it only took around 10 minutes for Aurus to evolve the skill to C-grade Transcendent level, turning into [Boundless Spirit Domain].

    While he was grinding all of the previous skills, he made sure to activate [Spiritas Rage] and [Spiritas Fortress], which were skills with incredibly long cooldowns. For these skills, he decided to just raise them to X-grade Mortal, which he had just achieved after upgrading [Spirit Aura].

    The new names of the two skills were [Berserk] and [Invincible], great contrasts to the names of the other skills in his skill list.

    He then proceeded to simultaneously grind [Zenith Purity Spiritas SP Vessel], [Infinite Tempest Affinity], [Blessing of the Zenith Tempest], and [Superb Illusion Resistance] within a span of an hour and a half, transforming into better versions of themselves¡­which shall not be said due to their long name.

    Andst but not the least, he grinded his Life and Will skills, which had not shown great purpose throughout fights and such, but showed great purpose when choosing his next evolution path.

    The two passive Life and Will skills, [Seeker of Two Destinies] and [Grand Vessel of Higher Sentience], turned into [Two Worlds¡¯ Overseer] and [Hundred Sentience World].

    As for the three active Life and Will skills, [Blooming Vitality++], [Indomitable Will++], and [Sentience++], rather than changing names once they evolved to C-grade Transcendent form, the system just decided to add more plus signs onto the end of the skills, turning into [Blooming Vitality+++++], [Indomitable Will+++++], and [Sentience+++++].

    After reading the names of thesest three skills, Aurus could not help but wonder as to whether the system was actually there to help him. Nheless, he brushed the thought off as he was finally finished in grinding all of his skills to C-grade Transcendent level.

    He asked the system to keep track of time just so he could see how much time he had used up while grinding his skills, only for him to know that it took him less than 18 hours to grind all of those skills to C-grade Transcendent level, with some at X-grade Mortal level.

    After knowing this fact, Aurus could not help but mutter to himself, ¡°Holy shit. This Transcending Comprehension Leaf works wonders.¡±

    Since he was now done with grinding his skills, Aurus now had nothing to do. In fact, Aurus did say around 18 hours ago to himself that if he had used less than 4 days to grind all of his skill to C-grade Transcendent level, he would aim for a higher level to make use of the remaining time.

    Although he did say that, he was deciding to not uphold that promise to himself as it was a bore for him to just repetitively use his skills over and over again. After this experience, he could not help but remember the ten days of seclusion he did before evolving to A-grade.

    ¡°Ah, right.¡± With that thought in mind, Aurus could not help but look at Fenrir and Charisa, who were still grinding their skills all this time.

    Unlike their master, they had to grind the hard way, which was basically how normal Inanimates did it if they haven¡¯t consumed Comprehension Leaves. But as Aurus looked at the two, he could not help but think about ascending the two to the X-grade Inanimate level.

    By ascending the two to the peak of the Inanimate existence level, they would be able to offer more help to the alliance, as well as help to him. Of course, it¡¯s not just help in terms ofmanding them and such, but help in terms of Ally skills as well. He was quite eager to see the effects of the X-grade versions of their skills.

    But unfortunately, in the end, he decided to postpone this decision as he did not want to interrupt the two from grinding their skills. Sure, he could interrupt the two as they would follow his everymand, but he would definitely bad after doing that. He was pretty sure that the two would not like it either.

    And so, he was stuck in a situation where he had no idea what to do. Well¡­not really a situation where he had nothing to do, but instead, too much to do that he had no idea what to do first.

    He could go ahead and evolve to X-grade Inanimate, but just like how he evolved to S-grade Inanimate, it would take a long time for him to finish the evolution.

    ¡°Speaking of which, is there a way to hasten this evolution? If not, I¡¯ll just postpone it after the war,¡± Aurus said to himself as something he had to do. He would ask Herellia about thister if she knew any methods to do so.

    Speaking of Herellia, he could also go to where Herellia was and tell her about his clone, his ns, and other topics that would possibly benefit the alliance one way or another. But he had a feeling that Herellia was also preparing in her own way as well through grinding skills, so he decided in the end to postpone thatter as well.

    As he continued to think about what to do, a thought embedded deep in his mind started to surface up, giving Aurus a sort of eureka moment as he started to talk a moment.

    ¡°So that¡¯s why I felt like I forgot something!¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s because I forgot about giving the Genesis Seed a type!¡±

    ¡°I¡­should really do that.¡±

 Chapter 139: Void Gale Seed

    Chapter 139: Void Gale Seed

    Tempest Cliff, Tempest Branch Alliance, within a room found inside the Tower of Seclusion.

    ¡°So that¡¯s why I felt like I forgot something!¡± Aurus said to himself inwardly as he did not want to shock Fenrir and Charisa since they were still assiduously grinding their stats.

    ¡°It¡¯s because I forgot about giving the Genesis Seed a type!¡± This was the idea that surfaced in his mind after wracking his brain over what to do next after maxing out almost all of his skills. Anyways, after remembering what he should¡¯ve done for the Genesis Seed system, he could not help but dryly chuckle.

    ¡°I¡­should¡¯ve done that after bing a Substitute Ruler of the Void,¡± he muttered inwardly, letting out a sigh not long after as he could not help butment, ¡°Why am I always distracted? Now that I think about it, I was also distracted from creating the clone to the point that it has been dyed until the war is now pretty close to happening.¡±

    ¡°Anyways, I should really get a move on,¡± Aurus said beforemanding the system to show the amount of Genesis Points he had left. It only took an instant for the system to notify Aurus that he had around 50 or so Genesis Points left, which could not help but make Aurus sigh.

    ¡°Who knew that upgrading the grades and maturity of the seed took up a great chunk of the 300 Genesis Points I received from the inheritance?¡± As he was saying this, he could not help but remember the times where he spent a great fraction of those 300 points in the Soul Enchantment System, which led to the dilemma of having an incredibly strong soul, and the Genesis Seed System, which consumed a great amount of Genesis Points without giving anything in return.

    ¡°Haaa¡­I hope 50 or so Genesis Points are enough to achieve the type I now have in mind,¡± Aurus said to himself as he opened up the Genesis Seed System, recalling the type he wanted the seed to be in his mind multiple times as he wanted to make sure that that was the most ideal option for him.

    Ding!

    ________

    [Genesis Seed System]

    Genesis Points: 54

    ¡ª¡ª¨C

    [Aurus¡¯ Genesis Seed]

    Type: Neutral

    Grade: Legendary

    Maturity Level: 30/100

    ________

    Looking at the changed grade and maturity level of the seed from before, Aurus could not help but regret the decision he made back then. If there was a chance that he could travel back in time, he would definitely decide to just save the Genesis Points for the time he had a type in mind.

    ¡°I seriously hope 54 Genesis Points are enough to create the type I have in mind,¡± Aurus said to himself. ¡°If not, I would have to kill tons of Inanimates outside, which indirectly increases my chances of being in the frontlines of the war.¡±

    After saying what he had to say, Aurus took a deep breath through his body, with the full intent of calming himself as anxiety would definitely mess his choices up if he was not careful. Doing it for five or so times, Aurus¡¯ state of regret and anxiousness was now reced with an aura of calmness and rationality.

    With this aura exuding from him, Aurus thenmanded to the system inwardly, ¡°I would like to choose a type for the Genesis Seed.¡±

    Ding!

    Of course, as the system was tied to Aurus, it did not even take a second for the system to reply, ¡®What type would the user like for the seed to be?¡¯

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡± Although Aurus had the seed type in his mind already, he could not help but feel a bit wary since he had a hunch that the system would definitely charge a greater amount of points for the type he had in mind than what he currently had. And so, he decided to ask the system.

    ¡°Before that, how much Genesis Points does it cost to change the seed type into that of a dual element?¡± he questioned the system.

    It took the system a few seconds to formte an answer as it replied, ¡®Depending on the rarity of the elements, the amount of points needed would vary. A dual element type based on the four basic elements would cost 10 Genesis Points, while a dual element based on the two rarest elements would cost over a thousand Genesis Points.¡¯

    Of course, this was not enough to satiate Aurus¡¯ curiosity as he continued to ask, ¡°How much points does it cost to change the seed type to Wind?¡±

    ¡®5 Genesis Points,¡¯ the system promptly replied.

    ¡°How much points for Space?¡± Aurus asked one more question.

    ¡¯25 Genesis Points,¡¯ the system promptly replied one more time.

    ¡°How much points if I were to have the two as my seed type?¡± This was thest question Aurus had in mind.

    ¡¯50 Genesis Points,¡¯ the system replied in a monotonous manner while Aurus was in utter disbelief over the amount of points needed to have the two types in one seed. Of course, he could not help but have the question ¡°Where does the extra 20 points go?¡± in his mind while listening to the system¡¯s reply. Nheless, he was able to let out a sigh of relief as he did not have to go out and kill Inanimates for now.

    ¡°I would like to change the Genesis Seed¡¯s type to the elements of Wind and Space.¡± Aurus took a few more deep breaths to rx his slightly surprised self to calmness before replying. Of course, the system gave out a prompt to confirm his choices, to which he epted as he already knew how much points he needed to achieve it.

    Ding!

    ¡®The Genesis Seed¡¯s type has been changed from Neutral to Wind.¡¯

    Whoosh!

    As the system sent out this notification, an intangible seed flew out of Aurus¡¯ body in an instant. Not long after, all of the Wind energy particles in the surroundings gradually made their way towards the intangible seed, before being absorbed by the seed as its color changed to that of a slightly bright green.

    Ding!

    ¡®The Genesis Seed¡¯s type has been changed from Wind to Wind + Space.¡¯

    Whoosh!

    Of course, since Aurus chose to have both Wind and Space in his Genesis Seed, the transformation of the intangible seed was not over. Not long after turning a shade of green, multiple particles of ck light started to manifest around the seed¡¯s surroundings, before making their way towards the seed about a secondter. Compared to how the Wind element was absorbed, the Space element was instead circling around the green seed, giving anyone a feeling that the two elements were not in harmony.

    Thankfully, the transformation was not over yet.

    Ding!

    ¡®The Genesis Seed¡¯s type has stabilized, transforming into Void Gale.¡¯

    Whoosh!

    As this notification resonated in Aurus¡¯ mind, the Space element surrounding the seed started to transform into drills that pierced through the green seed, slowly being absorbed by the seed whether it liked it or not. Thanks to this, the seed gradually took on the shade of ck on some parts, with shades of green on other parts. But then, another change happened to the seed, as the ck and green portions of the seed coalesced and formed two halves, before colliding with one another to give birth to a seed that was ck at times, and green at others.

    In other words, the type change was nowplete as the newly transformed seed made its way back to Aurus¡¯ body without doing anything special. Well¡­doing anything special externally.

    Bang! Bang! Bang!

    At the very moment the newly transformed seed settled down in Aurus¡¯ body, it then released a great portion of the elements in its body, sending it all throughout Aurus¡¯ body as every Anima and Flux hastily ate it all up in a matter of seconds.

    Ding!

    ¡®You have unlocked the hybrid skill [Void Gale Blessing].¡¯

    While this notification resonated in his mind, Aurus savored the feeling of wind and space caressing his body, as if his understanding of the two elements had gotten closer by a decent margin. It took a few minutes for Aurus to snap back to reality, being pleasantly surprised after knowing that he had obtained a skill from the Genesis Seed System.

    ¡°Ooh. It¡¯s a skill that boosts my movement speed and attack speed, as well as give me the ability to teleport any ce I want within a certain radius,¡± Aurus said as he read through the description of the skill.

    Of course, he tested the teleportation ability apanied with the skill, appearing here and there throughout the room while making sure that he did not disturb the two from grinding their skills.

    Quite satisfied with his element choice, Aurus then said with slight glee, ¡°Alright then. Now, it¡¯s time to upgrade the seed into a tree¡­.¡±

    But just as he was going to upgrade the seed, he then started sulking as he muttered, ¡°Ah right. I don¡¯t have a lot of Genesis Points left. Man¡­those skills from the Genesis Tree are really good though. Haah¡­¡±

    Not long after letting out a sigh, a few gears in his brain started to turn as this sulking aura gradually reverted back to that of glee. ¡°There¡¯s a good chunk of time before Chonk and his gang gets here, right? Although my ability to teleport is limited, it wouldn¡¯t be farfetched to say that I¡¯d be unharmed once I meet Chonk along the way!¡±

    As he said this, he could not help but dryly chuckle as he continued, ¡°Of course, I should still limit myself because I seriously do not want to be the first one to fight with Chonk. Hmm¡­how much time left does it take for the clone to beplete?¡±

    With that in mind, he asked the system, to which the system responded with a small holographic screen not long after.

    Ding!

    ¡®Time remaining: 03:03:09:32¡¯

    ¡°There¡¯s still a little bit over three days, huh?¡± Aurus muttered as he eventually decided on the fact that he was going to go out hunting until the timer was exactly at three days left.

    ¡°But before that, I should tell Herellia about my short trip outside, lest she bes flustered or whatever,¡± he said after being determined to follow his decision to the bitter end.

    Whoosh!

    And with that, Aurus disappeared in an instant from the room he was grinding in within the Tower of Seclusion, with the intent of finding Herellia before he left the alliance to amass Genesis Points.

 Chapter 140: Evolving The Seed

    Chapter 140: Evolving The Seed

    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!

    With every teleportation Aurus makes, a great distance for a C-grade or B-grade Inanimate would have been covered by him in an instant. Within three teleportations, he was already out of the Tower of Seclusion. Within ten teleportations, he was already near the corridor that connected the small ecosystem to the main hall. And within fifteen teleportations, he was already at the center of the main hall.

    Whoosh!

    As he appeared at the center of the main hall, Aurus took a look around his surroundings, seeing if there was anyone who had just came from a mission and was about to report to Herellia or something. Unfortunately, by the looks of it, for the past day or so Aurus was grinding to the fullest to improve hisbat power, almost all of the members of the alliance had alreadye back from their missions, focusing their full concentration on improving theirbat power for the uing war.

    Letting out a short sigh, he could not help but look up at the ceiling of the main hall, where he allowed his clone to incubate as a sort of trump card. Comparing the appearance of the incubating clone right nowto its appearance when it was just starting to form, the green sphere on the ceiling had shrunken by a few degrees as a weird blob of energy could be seen in its center, gradually elongating itself the longer one looked at it.

    While looking at the clone, the thought of telling Herellia about the clone popped into his mind one more time. This time though, he decided to not tell Herellia about the clone since there was a chance for an Inanimate specialized in searching through memories to pop up in Chonk¡¯s army of sorts. The less people that knew about his trump card, the better.

    Anyways, after looking at the clone for a few minutes, he now wracked his brain to its utmost limit to find a way to find Herellia at this time and age since every minute to him would mean more Genesis Points for him to farm. Fortunately, he remembered one of the perks of being a Pir member of the Tempest Branch Alliance, which was a holographic map that allowed him to see the location of every member of the alliance, Executive level members, Pir level members, and even the leader herself was not exempt from this.

    With that in mind, hemanded the system to activate the map, only taking him a few moments to pinpoint where Herellia was before proceeding to teleport after making sure that no one was looking at him from the main hall.

    Whoosh!

    ¡­

    Tempest Cliff, Tempest Branch Alliance, within a secluded part of the alliance¡¯s small ecosystem.

    Whoosh!

    A couple of minutes after he pinpointed the specific position of where Herellia was, Aurus appeared in front of Herellia all of a sudden, not even making so much as a sound when he arrived. Fortunately, Herellia¡¯s sense of vision was closed all the while Aurus had just teleported in front of her. It was after around a minute or so before she opened her sense of vision to look at Aurus and say, ¡°Oh? What brings you here, Aurus?¡±

    ¡°Well, it would be quite disrespectful to not tell the alliance leader about what I¡¯m going to do,¡± Aurus replied to Herellia¡¯s question, slightly chuckling. ¡°Anyways, I¡¯ll be going out for a bit to grind out some stuff for the system. Is that fine with you, Herellia?¡±

    ¡°Well that¡¯s fine by me¡­¡± Herellia replied as she exuded an aura of affirmation. She then continued, ¡°But why aren¡¯t you preparing for the war? It could happen at any time, you know.¡±

    ¡°Who says I haven¡¯t been preparing for the war?¡± Aurus replied, letting out a boisterousugh as he continued, ¡°I¡¯ve been grinding all of my skills all this time. Almost all of them are already at Transcendent level. Not only that, I even have some trump cards up my sleeve just in case.¡±

    Probably from hearing the words ¡®trump cards¡¯e out of Aurus, Herellia could not help but exude an aura of curiosity as she asked, ¡°Hoh? What kind of trump cards would that be?¡±

    ¡°Unfortunately, that¡¯s a secret for now since we can¡¯t be sure that they don¡¯t have someone that can peer through memories,¡± Aurus replied in a slight mncholic manner.

    ¡°Well, that is true,¡± Herellia replied not long after. ¡°Okay then, you can go out to grind out for your system,¡± she added. ¡°But can you do something for me while you¡¯re out?¡±

    ¡°Oh?¡± Aurus said as he exuded an aura of slight curiosity. ¡°What could that thing be?¡±

    ¡°Recon,¡± Herellia replied. ¡°To be better prepared for the uing war, it¡¯s better to know more about the enemies, right? As I¡¯ve heard from Animates here and there, knowing the enemy is already half the victory, don¡¯t you think?¡±

    ¡°Well¡­sure,¡± Aurus said after thinking about his chances of escaping from them if they ever find him. Remembering that he had a skill that allowed him to morph into any shape he wanted, he epted Herellia¡¯s proposition. ¡°So¡­where are they located at the moment?¡±

    ¡°Give me a second,¡± Herellia replied, closing her sense of vision for a bit before opening it not long after. She then replied, ¡°They¡¯re currently recouping their losses near the now destroyed Blossom Breeze Alliance. As for the location of where that is, I¡¯ll send that to you right now.¡±

    Whoosh!

    Just as she was finished talking about where Chonk and his gang was, she extended a blood red tendril towards Aurus all of a sudden before coursing energy through the tendril. It only took a few seconds for the energy to be absorbed by Aurus, imparting him information regarding the general location of the Blossom Breeze Alliance.

    Afterwards, she retracted this tendril and said to Aurus, ¡°And with that, I wish you good luck on your grinding and recon spree.¡±

    ¡°Thanks in advance then,¡± Aurus replied to her. But just before he was about to leave, he questioned Herellia, ¡°But before I leave, let me ask something. Does the alliance have trump cards to fight against an Animate?¡±

    ¡°Of course it does,¡± Herellia replied with an aura of confidence circling around her. ¡°How would we be the strongest alliance in Tempest Cliff if we didn¡¯t have trump cards of our own?¡±

    ¡°Is it alright for you to tell me what those trump cards are?¡± With his curiosity slightly piqued, he asked.

    ¡°Nope. Just as you¡¯ve said earlier, there might be someone who could read memories in the enemy¡¯s army,¡± Herellia replied, slightly chuckling afterwards.

    Hearing how his words were used right back at him, Aurus could not help but chuckle as well, saying, ¡°You got me. Alright, alright. I¡¯ll be leaving then.¡±

    Whoosh!

    After saying those words, Aurus disappeared in front of Herellia without a trace, slightly surprising Herellia as she was expecting him to fly away. She truly was not expecting for Aurus to disappear in front of her in an instant. After a while, Herellia could not help butugh as she gradually closed her sense of vision while muttering to himself, ¡°Well then, I wasn¡¯t expecting that. Speaking of which, I¡¯m pretty close to maxing that skill out. Unlocking it would definitely help turn the tides in the war.¡±

    ¡°Especially against an Animate like Chonk.¡±

    ¡­

    Whoosh!

    Within the span of a minute or so, Aurus was already out of the Tempest Branch Alliance, heading towards the general direction of the now destroyed base of the Blossom Breeze Alliance since he had the great idea of just grinding for Genesis Points while near the target of his reconnaissance. Of course, he was not that stupid, making sure to put a decent amount of distance between him and the ce where Chonk and his army were recuperating.

    It took him only three minutes to arrive at the ce he had in mind, being a kilometer or so away from the dpidated base of the Blossom Breeze Alliance, a great contrast to his previous speed since the distance he teleported within those three minutes was around twenty or so kilometers. As to how he had achieved such a feat, he was experimenting with the movement skill that he had obtained from bing a Ruler of the Void, being surprised that it actually affected the farthest distance he could actually teleport to.

    Anyways, once he arrived at his destination, the first thing he did was to disguise himself as a mundane thingmonly found in a forest. Activating his polymorph skill, he gradually transformed into a small twig, a great contrast to his wooden sculpture appearance. After that, he decided to just fly with [Zenith Nihility Dash] activated as he was more used to flying after teleporting. Not only that, he felt that flying was better, even back then in his previous life as a great ISE yer.

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    As he flew throughout the area which was filled to the brim with tons of flora due to it being near the Blossom Breeze Alliance, he had the Battle module of his system on full power, allowing him to sense whether the power of the Inanimate he was looking at was at least X-grade Inanimate, in order to obtain the highest amount of points possible from his grinding spree.

    At the very instant he found one, he would use his newly evolved [Spelldes of Nonagon Domination] and experiment with it, being more well-versed with the skill after his 50th kill or so. Not only that, the speed at which he fused spelldes together into greater forms had also increased the more he killed. Of course, that was not the most shocking thing from his grinding spree. Because by the time he had killed around 130 or so X-grade Inanimates, he had identally discovered that by using all of the nine spelldes that constituted the skill at once, he could unleash a power that could easily exceed what an early Pseudo-Animate could do as long as he buffed himself up.

    This grinding spreested a timespan of 2 hours, leaving Aurus an hour to spare to assess the power levels and the members of the enemy army that was going to attack the Tempest Branch Alliance. Anyways, those 2 hours of Genesis Point grinding was incredibly fruitful for him, as he had umted around 800 points after killing about 300 X-grade Inanimates within a radius of 5 kilometers around where he had originally arrived. Of course, he made sure to not alert the enemy army while he was doing so. Doing that was basically telling them that he was a shitty spy.

    Whoosh!

    After amassing 800 Genesis Points, Aurus settled down at the area he first arrived in, opening up the Genesis Seed System as he consumed around half of the 800 points to max out the seed¡¯s grade and maturity level.

    Ding!

    At the very instant he had achieved the highest level for both the grade and the maturity level of the Genesis Seed, a prompt appeared in front of his field of vision, with the text¡­

    ¡®You have reached the highest level of maturity and rarity for the Genesis Seed. Would you like the seed to germinate to transform into a Genesis Tree?¡¯

    ¡°Of course! That¡¯s the reason why I nurtured the seed to its highest level.¡± Saying this, Aurus confirmed the decision of germinating the Genesis Seed, with the intangible seed of two shades graduallying out of his body not long after.

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    A few seconds after the intangible seed was outside Aurus¡¯ body, a formless white energy started to manifest around the seed, before transforming into a drill that pierced through the seed. Normally, once a seed has been drilled into, it would undoubtedly die. It wasn¡¯t the case for this one since this was an intangible seed, not a real one. Thanks to it, the exact opposite, with the white energy drill piercing through the seed giving the seed more and more vitality as time passed.

    Eventually, the aura of vitality around the seed was incredibly thick that the seed just¡­

    Bang!

    Burst open.

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    As the outer shell of the seed cracked open due to it bursting open, a great whirlpool of energy started to manifest over the exploded seed, infusing the seed with great amounts of energy as the seed started to sprout in multiple directions. Around thirty secondster, the whirlpool of energy above the seed was now gone, recing it with the majestic sight of a small yet sturdy tree.

    The tree¡¯s leaves had a color that were akin to precious green jade. As for the tree¡¯s bark, it was the color of the pitch-ck sky at night, which referred to the Space element imbued inside this tree.

    Whoosh!

    Not long after, the newly grown tree made its way back to Aurus¡¯ body, imbuing Aurus¡¯ body with a greater understanding of Wind and Space as a notification appeared in front of his field of vision a few secondster.

    Ding!

    ¡®The Genesis Seed has transformed into a Level 1 Genesis Tree!¡¯

    ¡®Due to the user being blessed with a greater understanding of Wind and Space, [Void Gale Blessing] has been upgraded to [Nebulous Tempest Blessing].¡¯

    ¡®Due to the Genesis Tree being at the first level, 1st Layer Genesis Skills have been unlocked.¡¯

 Chapter 141: A Brewing Storm

    Chapter 141: A Brewing Storm

    Ding!

    ¡®The Genesis Seed has transformed into a Level 1 Genesis Tree!¡¯

    ¡®Due to the user being blessed with a greater understanding of Wind and Space, [Void Gale Blessing] has been upgraded to [Nebulous Tempest Blessing].¡¯

    ¡®Due to the Genesis Tree being at the first level, 1st Layer Genesis Skills have been unlocked.¡¯

    Looking at the notification screen that appeared in front of his field of vision, Aurus could not help but radiate an aura of happiness and excitement after reading through the notifications he had received.

    ¡°Although it took a while, I finally unlocked the Genesis Tree,¡± Aurus muttered to himself with the aura around him gradually intensifying. ¡°Anyways, what kind of skill would I unlock from the 1st Layer of this tree?¡±

    As he asked himself this question, he opened up the Genesis Tree System, taking a look at the newyout since the Genesis Seed System was now reced with the Genesis Tree.

    Whoosh!

    ________

    [Genesis Tree System]

    Genesis Points: 420

    ¡ª¡ª¨C

    [Void Gale Tree]

    Level: 1 (50 points to upgrade)

    ¡ª¡ª¨C

    Genesis Skills:

    1st Layer (open/close)

    ________

    Seeing as it took 50 Genesis Points to upgrade the Genesis Tree to the second level, Aurus decided to not upgrade the tree for now as he made up his mind to max out the skill of the tree¡¯s 1st Layer first. Recalling his memories back when he was still ying ISE, he knew that even a maxed-out 1st Layer Genesis Skill was enough to have a fighting chance against an Animate. Of course, it was only applicable in some scenarios, but it was still better than none.

    He noticed that he could not see the 1st Layer Genesis Skill avable to him from the screen, so hemanded the system to open to it as he wondered, ¡®Back then, when I was still ying ISE, the Genesis Skill I received from the 1st Layer was a skill that boosted all of my stats by 1000 percent, as well as increased my attack and movement speed by 500 percent. Then again, it costed like hundreds of thousands of SP (Stick Points) to activate it, plus the element of the Genesis Tree was purely Wind, unlike this time where I had both Wind and Space in.¡¯

    ¡°I just hope that the skill could possibly give me an edge in the war,¡± Aurus muttered in a slight expectant tone as the screen that showed information regarding the Genesis Tree System was reced with another screen that showed information on the Genesis Skills he could currently unlock. At the very instant he looked at the skill¡¯s name, he could not help but ask himself, ¡°Is this¡­what I think it is?¡±

    Ding!

    ________

    Genesis Skills:

    1st Layer:

    [Lesser Portal Creation] (0/2) ¨C 100 points to unlock

    ________

    From the name of the skill alone, Aurus had an idea on what the skill could do. He was thinking, that if his thoughts were correct once he looked at the skill¡¯s description, he would be able to create portals whenever and wherever he wanted¡­as long as he paid the costs needed to do so. With that idea in mind, Aurus could not help but sigh as he opened up the skill¡¯s description, wanting to know whether the skill needed a lot of FP to activate.

    Ding!

    Not long after hismand, another screen appeared beside the screen with the Genesis Skills, allowing Aurus to take a look as to what the skill could do and how much it would cost to form a portal¡­only for him to shout out inwardly, ¡°Holy shit! This skill is OP! If I had a skill like that back then, I might¡¯ve even be a top tier yer in the game!¡±

    ________

    [Lesser Portal Creation]

    Grade: 1st Layer Genesis

    A skill imbued within the Genesis Tree aligned with the element of Wind and Space, fusing the two elements together to create a skill that transcends skill grades. This skill allows the user to create a portal in any location they want, as long as they have the sufficient amount of SP needed to do so.

    Not only that, those that the user deems its allies shall be given a 10% boost to stats once they pass through the portal. While those that the user deems its enemies shall be given a 10% reduction to their stats once they pass through the portal.

    FP Cost: 500 SP per 20 meters

    _________

    Reading through the description of the skill, Aurus could not help but imagine as to how he could use the portals to the alliance¡¯s advantage, allowing them to ambush Chonk and his army, increasing the chances of their alliance winning in the war. But when he noticed the FP to distance ratio of the skill, he could not help but sigh as he calcted that he could only set up a portal only a bit further than 200 meters away if he used up all of his FP.

    ¡°I wonder if upgrading the skill would improve the FP to distance ratio?¡± Either way, Aurus knew that it was going to be a good trump card in the war, using up 100 of the 420 remaining Genesis Points he had to obtain the skill. Not long after, he used up another 200 Genesis Points to upgrade the skill to its maximum level, which he did not regret as he used 50 out of the remaining 120 after that to increase the Genesis Tree¡¯s level to Level 2, unlocking the 2nd Layer of Genesis Skills.

    After doing all of that, he checked on the skill¡¯s description once more, pretty satisfied since the FP to distance ratio was now 10 FP to 1 meter, instead of 25 FP to 1 meter like before.

    Did he experiment with the new skill after upgrading it? Indeed, he did, creating a few portals here and there to clear out some questions he had in mind. And once he cleared out most of the questions in mind, he let out an inward sigh of satisfaction as he activated his flight skill, gradually making his way towards the area of the dpidated Blossom Breeze Alliance base as he did not forget the mission given to him by Herellia.

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    Since he was in a ce that was just a kilometer away from where Chonk and his army was recouping, it only took him a couple of minutes to obtain a decent view of all of the members of Chonk¡¯s army, including Chonk. Of course, to make sure that he was not seen by any of the members, even if he was in current small twig form, he changed his form once more, transforming into a speck of sand.

    Did he transform while floating in midair? No, he went down first before transforming into a speck of sand, before floating once more to start his reconnaissance mission on Chonk¡¯s army.

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    Since he was now a speck of sand that¡¯s pretty much invisible to the naked eye once it¡¯s high enough, he then took in information of how much they were, how strong their forces were, what kind of advantages they had, and so on and so forth, storing it in his mind, since a vessel that could use FP as a storage for information would definitely give him away as it could grow to arge size. He just made sure to remember each and every detail he could, with the intent of forgetting all of it after he gave all of the information to Herellia.

    Now, how was he able to obtain information on theirbat power, as well as their advantages? This was all thanks to the highly upgraded Battle module of the Existence Evolution System, whichbined with the [Species Analysis] skill he had, allowed him to obtain detailed information about the enemies.

    It took thirty minutes for him to finish collecting all of the information regarding the enemy army, with an aura of disbelief radiating around him as he went back to the area he first arrived in.

    ¡°I can¡¯t believe it¡­¡± Aurus muttered to himself. ¡°To think that Horell¡¯s a part of Chonk¡¯s army!¡±

    Although Herellia talked to Aurus about how Horell left the alliance and how she was suspicious of his actions from the start, Aurus had an atittude of seeing before believing. In other words, if he did not see Horell within the enemy army, then it meant that Horell left the n for another purpose, unlike what Herellia said back then which was rted to Chonk.

    ¡°But why though¡­¡± Aurus still couldn¡¯t believe it. ¡°Why did he leave the alliance just to be a part of Chonk¡¯s army? Is it because he doesn¡¯t believe that we can defend against someone of Chonk¡¯s caliber?¡±

    ¡°If he knew that I had an ability that could create Animate clones, would have he left the alliance?¡± The more Aurus thought about it, the more delusional his ideas became. Fortunately, in the end, he was able to stop himself from thinking any further about Horell, deciding to just face Horell as an enemy rather than as arade in arms.

    Whoosh!

    And with his mission of spying the enemy army out finished, Aurus reverted his appearance back to that of a wooden sculpture. Afterwards, he activated his newly improved teleportation ability, using up less time than before to arrive at the alliance as he had also activated [Zenith Nihility Dash] while doing so, taking around five minutes or so to appear in front of Herellia, who was currently grinding her skills out.

    ¡°Ah! You¡¯re here,¡± Herellia was caught off guard for Aurus¡¯ arrival, eliciting a brief scream from her as she hastilyposed herself not long after. ¡°So, what did you find out?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll send the information to you,¡± Aurus replied as he created a tendril out of the Flux surrounding his body, connecting it to Herellia as heaps of energy started to flow through the Flux tendril. It took around thirty seconds for the transfer of information to finish as Aurus dispersed his tendril, waiting for Herellia to process all of it.

    ¡°Mmm¡­Good work.¡± It took a couple of minutes for Herellia to process the information, looking at Aurus in a new light as she did not expect that the information she got from him was extremely detailed in terms ofbat power and skills each and every member had. She then asked him, ¡°Let me just confirm one thing. You¡¯re telling me that there¡¯s two Animates and a Pseudo-Animate in their ranks?¡±

    ¡°Yeah,¡± Aurus replied, sighing not long after. ¡°I thought that we would be fine handling against Chonk since we have trump cards and whatnot. But with the addition of another Animate and a Pseudo-Animate, I can¡¯t help but doubt our chances of winning against them.¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, don¡¯t worry!¡± Herellia replied with a lightugh, exuding an aura of confidence and happiness. ¡°The trump cards this alliance has wields greater power than you¡¯d imagine. You¡¯ll definitely be blown away once the war starts.¡±

    ¡°Anyways, I do have a question. Chonk is one of the Animates, while Horell seemingly evolved into a Pseudo-Animate, which quote unquote reduces the chances of our alliance winning. He did say that he was about to break through to a higher existence level, so this was not a surprise. As for the second Animate though¡­¡±

    ¡°Is this really the Animate¡¯s name?¡± Herellia asked, her aura radiating intense doubt and curiosity.

    ¡°Yeah, it is,¡± Aurus replied with an aura of confidence surrounding him. ¡°I¡¯ve double checked it with my system, and that¡¯s what it seriously says.¡±

    ¡°Chungus¡­it doesn¡¯t really fit the Animate¡¯s species,¡± Herellia replied, thinking that the Animate¡¯s naming sense is pretty bad.

 Chapter 142: Dawn of a New Era

    Chapter 142: Dawn of a New Era

    ¡°From your standpoint, you could say that the name Chungus doesn¡¯t fit the species of the Animate, but if you knew howrge the guy was, you¡¯d probably think otherwise,¡± Aurus replied, not minding Herellia¡¯s question as she did note from Earth unlike him.

    As he said this, he could not help but recall the appearance of this Animate named Chungus. Although this Animate has not transitioned into a Rank 1 ss, the aura emanating from its body, as well as the stats that it had got it really close to showing the properties of a Rank 1 Animate. Not only that, its body size was incrediblyrge for an Animate, to which Aurus attributed to either the Animate¡¯s gluttony or the specific feature of the Animate¡¯s species.

    ¡°Sure¡­¡± Hearing Aurus¡¯ reply, Herellia did not bother to delve any further into the Animate, steering the conversation to another topic. ¡°Anyways, Chonk actually became a Rank 1 Animate? I thought that we were up against a Rank 0 Animate as the main boss, but to think that he actually seeded in breaking through.¡±

    ¡°Oh?¡± Aurus found it quite surprising since Herellia did not mention of Chonk¡¯s existence level other than the fact that he was an Animate. Hence, Aurus thought that he was a Rank 1 Animate from the start. ¡°Wasn¡¯t he Rank 1 from the start?¡±

    ¡°Nope, he was Rank 0 for most of his Animate life, only breaking through very recently by the looks of it. If he didn¡¯t break through, he wouldn¡¯t have started this war to eradicate the three alliances of Tempest Cliff,¡± Herellia replied, exuding an aura of denial.

    ¡°Speaking of which, are there any Inanimates we have to keep an eye out for? I know us two can fight against X-grade Inanimates without any problem, but I can¡¯t say the same for others,¡± she then changed the topic one more time, looking at Aurus as she waited for his reply.

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡± Aurus pondered for a bit, answering Herellia¡¯s query a few secondster. ¡°Only one X-grade Inanimate showed abat power that exceeded X-grade in my system, to be honest. As for that Inanimate¡¯s specialties, it¡¯s mostly based around the lightning element, and is also specialized in closebat ording to the skills I¡¯ve obtained.¡±

    ¡°What¡¯s his name?¡± Herellia could not help but ask, making a mental note of this Inanimate for the time the two factions meet up.

    ¡°Aucrill,¡± Aurus replied in an indifferent tone.

    After hearing the Inanimate¡¯s name, Herellia closed her sense of vision for a bit before exuding an aura of understanding. She then looked at Aurus and said, ¡°That¡¯ll be all for now, Aurus. Thanks for taking up the reconnaissance mission. You can go back and prepare, I guess.¡±

    ¡°Sure thing,¡± Aurus answered back, radiating an aura of slight confusion not long after. ¡°To be honest, I¡¯ve done almost everything I needed to do to prepare for the war. What else should I do?¡±

    ¡°Why not use the time to craft up a few more trump cards for the war?¡± Herellia replied back with a question, with Aurus exuding an aura of indifference as he replied, ¡°Well, I guess that¡¯ll do for now.¡±

    Whoosh!

    And with that, Aurus disappeared in front of Herellia¡¯s field of vision, heading towards the Tower of Seclusion as he wanted to check up on the progress of Fenrir and Charisa¡¯s grinding spree.

    ¡­

    While Aurus was doing that, on a certain sector of the Celestial ne, a Greater Goddess with a whip that exuded an intense aura of purity was heading towards a ne after knowing that the gods that dwelled there were demons.

    This Greater Goddess, well to be more exact, this divine clone of a Greater Goddess, was none other Shirohana, tasked by Kurohana to help Nix in solving the problem of demons inside the Celestial ne.

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    Due to Shirohana being blessed by Misha with her skill before she left, she was able to reach a speed a few notches beyond what she could normally attain, only taking her around three hours as the ne was situated a decent distance away from the Hall of Greater Divinity.

    Whoosh!

    At the very instant she arrived, she decided to not head down as she wanted to take a look at the state of the ne first. Due to her memories being from Kurohana, she knew that gods that have possessed by sinsing from demons often had their nes be corrupt or demonic in some form.

    From what she was looking, that seemed to be the case, with the whole ne taking on an incredibly dark violet hue. Thendscape on the ne was enveloped in a dark violet energy, as well as the flora and fauna on it. The only exception to this was a tower situated in the center, which radiated a crimson red glow.

    After touring around the ne for a few minutes, it was then that Shirohana decided tond, only for something unexpected to happen not long after hernding.

    Swish! Swish! Swish!

    In a matter of an instant, multiple tendrils, made out of the dark violet thing that enveloped the ne, coiled themselves around Shirohana, basically restraining her freedom of movement. She then tried to move her body around a little bit, seeing that just a small amount of force would not be able to break it. But when she was just about to use more force, she could not help but hear a woman¡¯sughter get closer and closer to where she was restrained.

    ¡°Wahahaha! To think we actually got a Greater God on our first attempt!¡± the woman said as she slowly revealed herself to Shirohana, her irises a t ck. ¡°Isn¡¯t that great, darling? We can actually form a True Demon God to continue with master¡¯s n!¡±

    ¡°Before we do that though, isn¡¯t it better to make her submit to us first?¡± Not long after, a man appeared in front of Shirohana as well, his irises the same color as the woman¡¯s. ¡°If even there¡¯s a small smidget of her resisting the possession, it could backfire on us.¡±

    ¡°But with the newfound power we¡¯ve obtained, isn¡¯t that easy?¡± the woman questioned the man, kissing the man on the lips passionately as the atmosphere around the three be amorous soon enough.

    While staying silent, Shirohana could not help but look at the two and assess the characteristics of the sin that possessed the two of them. Of course, these two gods were none other than Hinari and Hodazuka, the Lesser Goddess of the Moon and Lesser God of the Sun, respectively.

    From what they were doing at the moment, a certain sin in Shirohana¡¯s mind could not help but surface as she muttered, ¡°The Sin of Lust has possessed them both. The question is, at what level is the sin possessing them?¡±

    As she was wondering as to how strong the sin possessing them is, she also took this time to gradually apply a bit more force to the multiple tendrils restraining her, making sure that she did not alert the two as she gradually escaped from the hold of the tendrils.

    Snap! Snap! Snap!

    Little by little, thanks to the force she was exerting, as well as the whip of purity she was holding, she was able to remove all of the tendrils restraining her without alerting the two. Speaking of which, even if she made a loud sound, it wouldn¡¯t even alert the two as they were¡­

    Connected through their bodies at the moment.

    ¡°Unngyahh~¡± Hinari moaned as she could feel Hodazuka¡¯s mining drill explore her caverns bit by bit. Of course, Hodazuka could not help but scream out in pleasure since what they were doing was pretty pleasurable. But other than that, an ominous energy gradually surrounded the two of them. From the looks of it, it seemed that this ominous energy was fusing the two of them as they wallowed themselves in great pleasure.

    Looking at this without any malice in mind, Shirohana then deduced the power level of the sin, letting out a sigh of relief as she muttered, ¡°It¡¯s just a Refined Sin that just happened to be lucky to possess two Lesser Gods.¡±

    ¡°Since that¡¯s the case¡­¡± Shirohana looked at the whip she was holding, before panning her focus back to the amorous couple, a small smile slowly creeping up her face as she swung her whip backwards, sending the tip flying at great speeds, aiming for¡­

    Hodazuka¡¯s mining drill.

    Whip!

    ¡°Gyaargh!¡± The whip hit its mark, forcing the mining drill out of Hinari¡¯s cavern as the ominous energy surrounding the two of them gradually dispersed thanks to what Shirohana did. Of course, that did not stop the two from getting angry at Shirohana as Hodazuka shouted, ¡°What the hell did you do that for?!¡±

    And with that, Hodazuka started his charge towards Shirohana with his mining drill in a half-stiff state, forming a ball of light above his palm, which was gradually tainted by a dark energy not long after.

    ¡°Take this! [Sr Oblivion]!¡±

    Whoosh!

    With all of the strength he could muster in his body, Hodazuka threw this ball of light towards Shirohana¡­as Shirohana deflected it with her whip with ease. Seeing that Hodazuka¡¯s attack didn¡¯t work, Hinari also made her move towards Shirohana, which consisted of a crescent de being tainted with a dark energy. But since Shirohana was blessed by the Greater Goddess of Purity, and also borrowed a Cherubim-level whip from her, the two attacks shot out by the two were deflected without any problem.

    Realizing that their attacks did not work, the two of them could not help but tremble in front of Shirohana. Shirohana could not help but look at the two with a slight sneer, saying not long after, ¡°Is that all you two have?¡±

    Feeling intimidated by Shirohana¡¯s presence, Hodazuka could not help but grit his teeth as he told Hinari, ¡°Connect with me.¡±

    ¡°Eh?¡± Hearing Hodazuka¡¯s words, Hinari could not help but blush.

    ¡°We won¡¯t be able to beat this Greater Goddess if we don¡¯t use the full power of our sin,¡± Hodazuka added, persuading Hinari to connect with him. ¡°Do you want to create a True Demon God or not? Do you want to disappoint the master?¡±

    Looking at Shirohana, who was emanating an intense aura of purity that made her ufortable, Hinari decided to follow Hodazuka¡¯s words, allowing his mining drill to enter her cavern once more. This time though, a dark and ominous energy hastily covered the two of them, transforming them into a monster made out of dark ominous energy.

    ¡°Take this!¡± the monster shouted, forming a ball of dark energy above its palm, before swinging its arm towards Shirohana as the ball flew at incredibly fast speeds.

    ¡°Hmph.¡± Shirohana snorted, looking at the monster with disdain. ¡°Is that seriously the strength of a Refined Sin? And here I thought I was going to have to fight for a long time. You two have really disappointed me,¡± she scoffed not long after as she raised her free arm up into the air, forming a magic circle in an instant.

    ¡°With purity as my de, and courage as my hilt, I beseech thews of the universe to help me.¡±

    ¡°5th Divine Circle, 3rd Demon ying Circle, Nox Luminaris Desterii.¡±

    ¡°[Boundless Demon Shackle]!¡±

    Whoosh!

    At the very instant she was finished chanting her spell, she then aimed the magic circle towards the monster, firing out a ball of light that glowed a faint gray. This glow was then reced with a white glow thanks to the aura of purity surrounding her.

    Fwoosh!

    Before the monster could even react, the ball of light had collided with its away, siphoning all of the dark energy that merged the two Lesser Gods together, revealing the bodies of the two with their eyes closed.

    As for the dark energy, it continued to be siphoned out of the two gods¡¯ bodies. It was not long after that a demon¡¯s mark manifested above the two bodies before making their way towards the condensation of dark energy.

    Seeing the demon¡¯s mark that manifested above their bodies, Shirohana could not help but frown.

    ¡°Well this is a problem,¡± she muttered to herself as she grabbed the orb of dark energy that was formed from the Sin of Lust. She then looked at the two unconscious gods lying down on the ground, deciding to send a bit of her divine energy towards them as a matter of disseminating information about what happened to the two of them.

    Not only that, since the Sin of Lust residing within the two of them was now absorbed into the orb Shirohana was holding, the state of the ne the two resided in gradually reverted back to its original state as Shirohana flew off not long after the ne¡¯s full reversal.

    Whoosh!

    With the orb filled with the sin in her hand, she headed back towards the Hall of Greater Divinity to tell Nix of a possible storm heading towards the Celestial ne.

    ¡°Demon¡¯s Mark¡­the Deified Sins are going to attack the Celestial ne.¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t know when, but I better prepare.¡±

    ¡°I can¡¯t afford to waste any more time. I need to craft up my Evolving Weapon as fast as possible.¡±

 Chapter 143: An Unforeseen Upgrade

    Chapter 143: An Unforeseen Upgrade

    While Shirohana was heading back to the Hall of Greater Divinity with bad news and a few shady ns, Aurus had just teleported back to the Tower of Seclusion, wanting to check the progress of Fenrir and Charisa in their skill grinding.

    Whoosh!

    Surprisingly, at the very moment Aurus appeared in front of the two, the two were not actually grinding their skills at all. Instead, they were waiting for Aurus toe back from where he left.

    Of course, this disparity from what he expected slightly shocked Aurus, but he was able to understand as to why the two stopped grinding their skills up. He then looked at the two of them and asked, ¡°Why aren¡¯t you two grinding your skills? Are you both done already?¡±

    ¡°Mm, not at all,¡± replied Charisa as her head me swayed to and fro to express denial. She then turned her head me to look at Fenrir, before looking back at Aurus as she continued, ¡°To be honest, we were worried about you, Master! Why didn¡¯t you tell us you were going to leave all of a sudden? Although you¡¯re our Master, we can¡¯t help but worry, you know~?¡±

    ¡°Master, Charisa is correct,¡± Fenrir replied as he looked at Aurus with an aura of seriousness emanating from him. ¡°Although we can rest assured that you¡¯lle back unscathed, there¡¯s still a small part of us that can¡¯t help but worry that something bad may befall you, Master.¡±

    Hearing words of concerning out from the two of them, Aurus could not help but feel warm inside, although there was no heat whatsoever from the insides of his body. Nheless, his tone became a bit gentler as he said, ¡°Okay, okay. I apologize for not telling you what I went out to do before leaving. From now on, I¡¯ll alert the two of you about these types of things when you¡¯re summoned, okay?¡±

    With such a reply like that, both Fenrir and Charisa could not help but feel warm from the inside as well, their tones taking on a gentler feel as they simultaneously replied, ¡°Okay!¡±

    Not long after that, Aurus then asked the two of them, ¡°Are you two serious about not being finished with maxing out your skills? Then again, it¡¯s fine since I wanted to know just in case the war wasing soon.¡±

    ¡°To be honest, Master¡­¡± Like before, Charisa was the first one to reply, but this time, there was a slight aura of shyness and confidence emanating around her. ¡°Ehehe¡­For some reason, the two of us are almost finished maxing out our skills to X-grade Mortal. Well¡­to be more exact, Fenrir is already finished maxing out his skills, while I¡¯m only a few grades from doing so, Master¡­¡±

    Afterwards, a slightly awkward silence surrounded the three before being broken by Charisa as she added, ¡°But that doesn¡¯t mean Charisa is doing poorly¡­right? Right????¡±

    From Charisa¡¯s reply, Aurus could not help but be shocked once more as he knew for a fact that it took him around 10 days to max out almost all of his skills to X-grade Mortal. Of course, he also took into consideration that the amount of skills the two had were significantly less than what he had, but once he calcted it, he found out that it would still take them at least 3 days, unlike the one day they spent right now.

    ¡°Is that true, Fenri-¡± Just as he was about to ask Fenrir if what Charisa said was true, only to sense an aura of confidence and pride emanating from him. Seeing such an aura emanating from Fenrir was a sort of reply to unfinished question, so he decided to change the question instead.

    ¡°Fenrir, can you tell me what you felt while grinding up those skills?¡± Aurus asked, wanting to know if something special happened the two.

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡± Hearing a question like thate out of his master, Fenrir could not help but ponder a bit, trying to recall the feeling he felt while he was grinding. Eventually, Fenrir opened his mouth as he replied, ¡°To be honest, before Charisa was summoned, I could still remember the times when we used to fight against bosses to help you out.¡±

    Aurus then tried to recall the memories spoken by Fenrir, pertaining to the boss killing spree he did to farm up OS Points. Not long after remembering these memories, he could not help but think, ¡®Speaking of which, I¡¯ve also amassed a few OS Points from grinding Genesis Points. I should allocate themter.¡¯

    Of course, this thought was only a fleeting one as he put it in the back of his head as he replied, ¡°Yeah, I remember. What about those times?¡±

    ¡°Well, when fighting against those kinds of beings, we tend to use skills,¡± Fenrir answered Aurus¡¯ question. ¡°Back then, the amount of inspiration I gained when using those skills were like droplets of water squeezing through a small hole.¡±

    He then continued, ¡°But when you tasked us to grind all of our skills to their maximum levels, I could not help but notice the amount of inspiration I was obtaining from the skills. The sensation I felt while doing so was akin to a raging river, inspiration continuouslying into my mind as I enhanced my skills again and again.¡±

    Hearing those words, Charisa could not help but add, ¡°That¡¯s right, that¡¯s right! That¡¯s what I also felt while training my skills, Master~!¡±

    At that point in time, a memory surfaced in Aurus¡¯ mind after hearing Fenrir¡¯s reply, a memory that was incredibly fresh as it was about him grinding up all of his skills to C-grade Transcendent level. Indeed, he could not help bute to the conclusion that the effect of the Transcending Comprehension Leaf was also passed on to Fenrir and Charisa.

    Thinking about it, Aurus could not help but mutter inwardly, ¡°I don¡¯t know how the effect passed onto those two, but I¡¯m pretty d that it did.¡±

    After organizing all of his thoughts, Aurus took a deep breath through his body and looked at the two of them, saying, ¡°Alright. Since there¡¯s still a ton of time before the war by the looks of it, I¡¯ll have to change your goals.¡±

    ¡°Go ahead and grind up all of your skills to at the very least, C-grade Transcendent level.¡±

    ¡°Eh?¡± Fenrir and Charisa could not help but say after hearing their master¡¯s words, thinking that their master became slightly delusional. Fenrir was the first one to ask Aurus, saying, ¡°Are you¡­joking, Master?¡±

    ¡°Not at all,¡± Aurus replied. ¡°Although the gap between Mortal skills and Transcendent skills seem to berge, I believe that the two of you can bridge that gap. The two of you can do it¡­right?¡±

    To be honest, Aurus was not expecting that the two of them would end up bing slightly shocked over his words as breaking through the Transcendent grade of skills for him was easy. Was it not the case for others? With that in mind, he just decided to encourage both Fenrir and Charisa, with its effects appearing not long after.

    ¡°Yes! We can do it, Master~!¡± Charisa was the first to reply, heading towards a corner of the room they were in before closing her sense of vision and starting to train her skills. As for Fenrir, he could not help but look at Aurus and say, ¡°I¡¯ll try my best to fulfill your expectations, Master.¡±

    With such a weird tone on his reply, Aurus could not help but say, ¡°Don¡¯t feel so glum, Fenrir. We¡¯ve been through more stuff unlike Charisa. I know your true potential, and it¡¯s prettyrge. Are you gonna let your master down?¡±

    Hearing such a question from Aurus, Fenrir could not help but answer back, his tail slightly wagging, ¡°Of course not.¡±

    And with that, Fenrir headed towards another side of the room, starting to train up his skills as well. This meant that Aurus was left alone again, pondering as to what he was going to do next.

    He then decided to follow up on what he thought up earlier, regarding the amount of OS Points he received from killing those Inanimates for Genesis Points. In actuality, he had amassed a decent amount of OS Points, possibly enough to max everything out if his calctions were correct.

    ¡°System, open up the system¡¯s OS,¡± Aurusmanded, with the system following his words not long after.

    Ding!

    ________

    [Existence Evolution OS]

    OS Points: 35

    ¡ª¡ª¨C

    Level Up Synchronization (1/10)

    Cost to upgrade: 1 OS Point

    ¡ª¡ª¨C

    Memory DLC (2/3)

    Cost to upgrade: 10 OS Points

    ¡ª¡ª¨C

    Artificial Intelligence: Battle (MAX)

    ¡ª¡ª¨C

    Artificial Intelligence: Learning (3/10)

    Cost to upgrade: 1 OS Point

    ________

    Seeing as there were three portions of the system¡¯s OS that wasn¡¯t upgraded, he decided to upgrade the one that would possibly help him out the most in this war, which was the Memory DLC portion of the system¡¯s OS.

    Ding!

    ¡®Memory DLC has been fully upgraded.¡¯

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    Not long after, inside his mind, the remaining parts of his memories from his previous life that were shrouded by fog gradually broke free from the fog. To be more exact, the fog that was surrounded these memories gradually dissipated, revealing the remaining memories of Aurus from when he was a decently leveled Animate up to the time when he had attained Godhood.

    Recalling all of the memories from his previous life from when he was an Inanimate up to Godhood, Aurus could not help but let out an aura of happiness and say, ¡°I now know more ways to improve myself even faster.¡±

    Not long after, he then went on to upgrade the Learning module of the system, costing him 7 OS Points. Although he did not find a use for it right now, he knew that it could allow his skills to turn into Special skills. The only problem was the time it took for it to happen, as well as the limited amount of skills he could put in at once.

    Lastly, he upgraded Level Up Synchronization to its maximum level, costing him 9 OS Points as he just wanted to get this part of the system¡¯s OS over with. He could still remember that it was because of this system ability being locked which had his level ups bing dyed. Although he did not see a use for the ability being at maximum level, it was still better to have maxed than not.

    Ding!

    ¡°Eh? A notification?¡± Aurus could not help but ask what this notification was for, only to hypothesize that it might be because all of the abilities in the system¡¯s OS have been fully maxed out. As for what it entailed, he did not know.

    And so, he opened it.

    ¡®You have sessfully upgraded the Existence Evolution System¡¯s OS to its limits, Aurus.¡¯

    ¡®Would you like to upgrade the system¡¯s OS to greater heights?¡¯

    ¡°Eh?¡±

 Chapter 144: Decluttering

    Chapter 144: Decluttering

    Ding!

    ¡®You have sessfully upgraded the Existence Evolution System¡¯s OS to its limits.¡¯

    ¡®Would you like to upgrade the system¡¯s OS to greater heights?¡¯

    ¡°Eh?¡± This was the first sound that came out of Aurus after looking at the notification that appeared in front of his field of vision. To be honest, he was not expecting for the system to have a notification like this as he thought that after maxing all of the abilities of the OS, it would all be done with.

    Thanks to this notification he received, Aurus could not help but think, ¡®Are there more things this system is hiding from me, which reduces my methods of bing stronger?¡¯

    With that, he decided to go over the memories from his past life, recalling all of the features within ISE aside from the features he had already received that would allow him to be stronger than before. Unfortunately, even after what seemed to be about twenty minutes of recalling and going through his memories, it seemed that all of the features that allowed Aurus to get stronger as an Inanimate had already been obtained by him.

    Not only that, there were also some additional features from the system that weren¡¯t in the original game, prompting Aurus to think once more that his current life was not a game, but a real and actual life. Of course, this thought was already inside Aurus¡¯ mind as a lot of the experiences he had throughout his current life was vastly different from the one he had in the game, as well as the fact that he could upgrade the system, which he could not do back in the game.

    After going through all of his memories and not seeing a feature that wasn¡¯t unlocked by his system yet, Aurus could not help but ponder for a bit. The train of thought that was currently coursing through his mind was that, once the system¡¯s OS was upgraded, it would give him ess to more features of the system that weren¡¯t originally there.

    Then again, he had already obtained a few features that were not originally there, speaking from the standpoint that all of the features came from ISE. The Soul Enchantment System he obtained was not part of ISE in his previous life, nor was the first part of the Genesis Tree System, the Genesis Seed System.

    There were also a few bits of the features he obtained from the system which came from the game that had a few deviations from the original features. For example, the Ally system which normally boosted his stats and allowed him to create an ultimate attack with 5 beings, was even more than that in this current life of his.

    In the end, he decided to ask the system. ¡°What would upgrading the system¡¯s OS do? Would it unlock something or upgrade something that¡¯s currently a part of the system?¡±

    A few seconds of silence ensued from that question, the system only replying half a minuteter from that question as a monotonous voice resonated within Aurus¡¯ mind.

    ¡®Unfortunately, this system cannot divulge that information.¡¯

    Obtaining a disappointing answer from the system, Aurus decided to ask one more question. ¡°Is there a cost to upgrading the system¡¯s OS?¡±

    Ding!

    Unlike before, the system replied in an instant this time, the monotonous voice resounding throughout Aurus¡¯ mind once more.

    ¡®The user needs 100 OS Points to upgrade the system¡¯s OS.¡¯

    ¡°Oh. I¡¯ll postpone it then,¡± Aurus said without hesitation after hearing the cost. After upgrading all of the abilities of the current system¡¯s OS to its maximum level, he only had 9 OS Points remaining, a far cry from the 100 points he needed to upgrade the OS. Not only that, he also had a feeling that this upgrade would definitely be more deterimental to him rather than beneficial.

    Thankfully, after telling the system that the upgrade was going to be postponed, the system did not push the matter any further, maintaining silence for a while until¡­

    Ding!

    Another notification appeared.

    ¡°What is it this time?¡± Aurus could not help but ask himself after obtaining notifications where he did not know where it originated. But as he opened up the notification screen to look at the notification he received, he could not help but mutter to himself in shock, ¡°How the heck did I get this chance?¡±

    ¡®Transcending Comprehension Leaf has been fully absorbed.¡¯

    ¡®You have obtained 9 chances to max out your skills, no matter what grade it is.¡¯

    Of course, what caught Aurus¡¯ attention first was the fact that he could upgrade 9 skills of his to the maximum level, no matter what grade it was, which resulted in the question he asked himself. Fortunately, he continued to read through the notifications, finally understanding where his chances came from as a slightly hazy memory surfaced from his mind, with the voice of Herellia faintly resounding throughout the insides of his mind.

    ¡®There are three grades to Comprehension Leaves. Those are, in order from weakest effect to strongest effect: Soaring, Fleeting, and Transcending. I¡¯m sure there¡¯s a few more grades of Comprehension Leaves that¡¯s stronger in effect, but I haven¡¯t absorbed them yet so I won¡¯t tell you those for now¡­¡¯

    ¡®Transcending Comprehension Leaves have the greatest effect as they allow to increase the experience you obtain for your skills by 14 times, bringing it to a total of 15 times. Not only that, it also gives you the option to max out 10 skills!¡¯

    With those words lingering for a bit inside Aurus¡¯ mind, Aurus could not help but say in a soft tone as he did not want to startle both Fenrir and Charisa, ¡°Ah¡­so that¡¯s what it is. I¡¯ve already used up one chance of the Transcending Comprehension Leaf to max out my SP storage skill. Then again, from what the system is telling me, I still have nine more chances to do the same thing.¡±

    With nine chances to max out whatever skills he wanted, Aurus pondered for a bit as to what skills he would max out with the chances given to him. Eventually, after around a couple of minutes, he said to himself as he went over the decision a couple of times in his head, ¡°Yeah, I¡¯ll use up two chances for now. I¡¯ll save the 7 chances forter since I have a feeling it¡¯s going toe in handy.¡±

    Not long after that, he thenmanded to the system in his mind, ¡°System, use up two of my chances to max out [Spelldes of Nonagon Domination] and [Ninth Purity Heavenbinding Essence Transformation].¡±

    Ding!

    ¡®Two chances have been used, leaving the user with seven chances remaining.¡¯

    ¡®[Spelldes of Nonagon Domination] and [Ninth Purity Heavenbinding Essence Transformation] have both reached the MAX level.¡¯

    ¡®[Spelldes of Nonagon Domination] and [Ninth Purity Heavenbinding Essence Transformation] have met the necessary requirements and are ready to evolve.¡¯

    Looking at the notifications he received from the system, as well as the feeling he felt after maxing out both skills to the max level, which was akin to obtaining super strength in an instant, Aurus could not help but reinforce the idea that the decision he made was worth it.

    As to why Aurus decided to max out the two of these skills to the max level for now was because of their importance to hisbat power. Although Aurus had a Spell Core, he was more reliant on this spellde skill of his, which originated from a simple [Nut Shot]. A great contrast to its origin, it gave Aurus ess to a few ultimate skills that could deal devastating power.

    As for the essence transformation skill, by upgrading it to the max level and evolving it, it would increase Aurus¡¯ stats by arge amount, which in turn, increases the power behind his attacks. The downside to it was the fact that his soul power would grow stronger by a few notches, which was thankfully alleviated by the fact that he had a strengthened soul sealing skill already.

    ¡°Evolve both skills to the next grade,¡± Aurusmanded the system without hesitation, as unlike a lot of Mortal skills that had a lot of choices to choose from in terms of skill evolution paths, Transcendent skills had a linear path of evolution, which gave them more power in what they did best.

    Ding! Ding!

    ¡®[Spelldes of Nonagon Domination (Rare)] has evolved to [Nine Damnation Spellswords of Ruination (Rare)].¡¯

    ¡®[Ninth Purity Heavenbinding Essence Transformation (Special)] has evolved to [Heaven¡¯s Zenith Essence Ascension (Rare)].¡¯

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    After evolving the two skills to their next grades, the feeling that Aurus felt a while ago coursed throughout his body once more, this time with more force behind it, giving him the feeling that he could kill thousands of foes with a single attack. Of course, as he was still an S-grade Inanimate, this feeling bing a reality was quite distant, but at the same time, was not far off thanks to the grades of the skills he currently had.

    He then tested out the newly evolved spellsword skill he obtained, using the nine spellswords that came with the skill one by one, before doing a few experiments of small scale, making sure to not disturb Fenrir and Charisa as they were still grinding their skills. Getting to the conclusion that he could still recreate the ultimate skill he formed with the previous version of the skill, as well as enhance its power even further, Aurus was satisfied with his experimentation.

    After doing so, he could not help but think of what to do next as he was saving the 7 chances to max out skills forter. Although Herellia told him to create trump cards, he did not know what skills he should use to create trump cards that would tip the scales to their favor in their war.

    ¡°Speaking of skills¡­¡± Aurus said to himself as he became fixed to the word ¡®skills¡¯, opening up his skill list not long after. ¡°I seriously have to do some decluttering. Although most of them are still passive skills, there are still a lot of active skills I don¡¯t use that often.¡±

    As to why Aurus was doing this right now instead of back then, the reason behind it was because the method to removing skills from his skill list was locked behind the memories that were recently unsealed. If Aurus had those memories unsealed even earlier, he would definitely have his skill list organized by now.

    ¡°Anyways, if I could remember correctly, back in the game, there were a few specific ces in the game¡¯s world where I could remove skills, exchanging them for a permanent boost to my stats. I wonder if the system could do that?¡±

    ¡°I guess it¡¯s worth a shot,¡± Aurus said to himself as a stray thought screamed out at the back of his head, telling him that it isn¡¯t possible as the system wasn¡¯t upgraded. Unfortunately for the stray thought, most of his mind was telling him to try it out at the very least.

    ¡°System, can I remove skills from my skill list?¡± Aurus asked the system inside his mind. At first, there was only silenceing from the system, but thankfully, the system replied to his question not long after as a screen appeared in front of his field of vision.

    Ding!

    ¡®The system does have this option, yes. Unfortunately, due to the user having a low existence level, to remove skills, the user must sacrifice their levels in proportion to the grade of the skill they want to remove,¡¯ the system replied.

    ¡°Well then,¡± Aurus said to himself after a few seconds of mild shock. ¡°I wasn¡¯t expecting that kind ofpromise. I do have a few million points of unused XP so¡­¡±

    ¡°Let¡¯s get to decluttering then.¡±

 Chapter 145: Fusion

    Chapter 145: Fusion

    Finally knowing that he could remove skills that did not serve any purpose to him other than to make his skill list look more cluttered, even though he had to pay a price for it to happen, Aurus was quite happy knowing that it was possible in his Inanimate form.

    All of the ces that allowed skills to be removed from skill lists in Aurus¡¯ memories were all ces that could only be essed by yers in thete game. To be more specific, only those that at least have an existence level of Transcendent would be able to ess such a ce.

    ¡°Now that I think about it,¡± Aurus started to ponder over the words the system said as it confirmed the ability of skill removal. ¡°What does it mean by removing levels proportionate to the grade of the skill I¡¯m removing? If I¡¯m getting this correctly, a C-grade Mortal skill would cost a level to be removed, while an X-grade Mortal skill would cost 5, presuming that my calctions are correct.¡±

    Although there was nothing wrong with asking the system about these things, Aurus decided to not ask the system, lest it actually had a conscience of its own and it grew annoyed from Aurus¡¯ consistent questioning.

    ¡°Well¡­if my calctions are seriously correct,¡± Aurus muttered to himself not long after. ¡°Then there¡¯s no problem for me to use up some of my unused experience. If not, even the few million points of experience that I have is definitely not going to be enough.¡±

    ¡°System, open up a list of active and hybrid skills that I have,¡± Aurusmanded the system, putting aside passive skills since more passive skills would help Aurus out rather than be a burden.

    Ding!

    ________

    Ruler Skills:

    [Zenith Nihility Dash Lv. 1], [Dark Universal de Lv. 1], [Imprable Shield of Nil Lv. 1], [All-epassing Nothingness Lv. 1]

    ss Skills:

    [High Spirit Spell Core (Wind Variant) Lv. 1 [Grand Spiritas Deification Lv. 1], [Supreme Spirit-Vitality Unification Lv. 1], [Unworldly Flux Weapon Fabrication Lv. 1], [Unworldly Flux Armor Fabrication Lv. 1], [Third Heaven Flux Enhancement Lv. 1], [Grand Flux Samsara Lv. 1]

    Species Skills:

    [Transient Spiritas Dash (Special) Lv. 1], [Nine Damnation Spellswords of Ruination (Rare) Lv. 1], [Infinite Primordial Morph Lv. 1], [Berserk Lv. 1], [Invincible Lv. 1], [Heavenly Spiritas Revival Lv. 1], [False Nil Teleportation Lv. 1], [Spirit Clone Lv.1], [Boundless Spirit Domain (Rare) Lv. 1], [Alliance Call], [Judgement], [Unbreakable Spiritas Flux Shield (Special) Lv. 1], [Soul Transcendence], [Wisdom Transfer Lv. 1], [Nine Worlds Soul Morphosis Lv. 1]

    Life and Will Skills:

    [Blooming Vitality+++++ Lv. 1], [Indomitable Will+++++ Lv. 1], [Sentience+++++ Lv. 1]

    ________

    Looking at the decently long skill list that appeared in front of his field of vision, which only constituted up of active and hybrid skills that he had obtained all along his journey to where he was now, Aurus could not help but imitate of clicking his tongue inwardly as he could not help but say, ¡°Man, how did it get to this point?¡±

    As he tried to recall where his skills came from, he remembered that almost all of his skills were obtained through the evolutions he did as a species. Unfortunately, a lot of those skills haven¡¯t even seen the light of day, never being used even once in a fight.

    He looked at this list a few more times, deciding on what skills to remove. Eventually, he decided to remove the Life and Will skills he obtained from evolving into a Spiritas. The only useful Life and Will skills he obtained were the Life and Will vessel and stat boost skills, both of which were passive.

    As for the three skills, the only gimmick they had was a stat boost, and it was not even close to the boost given by [Grand Spiritas Deification].

    And so, with his choice set in stone, Aurusmanded the system, ¡°System, remove [Blooming Vitality+++++], [Indomitable Will+++++], and [Sentience+++++].¡±

    Not long after saying it, he could not help but add, ¡°God damn, these skill names are a mouthful. Not only that, it feels like I¡¯m trying to persuade a cat toe closer¡­as if there was one in the first ce.¡±

    Ding!

    It took a few seconds for the system to process Aurus¡¯mand, a screen appearing in front of his field of vision not long after as the text written on it said, ¡®The system cannot delete these skills as these skills are the core of Life and Will skills.¡¯

    ¡°Are you serious?¡± Aurus mumbled in slight annoyance. ¡°Ain¡¯t the core skills of Life and Will the vessel and the passive stat boost one?¡±

    Hemanded the system to delete the three skills a few times, all of those attempts ending up fruitless. In the end, he could not help but sigh as he decided to not mess with those skills, looking for another skill he rarely used to remove instead.

    ¡°Hmm¡­after obtaining a great amount of FP, plus an incredibly good FP regeneration rate, I think this skill can go now,¡± Aurus said to himself after looking at a specific skill categorized under ss Skills. He tried to remember thest time he used that skill, which ended up bing fruitless as he could not remember it anymore.

    ¡°System, remove [Supreme Spirit-Vitality Unification],¡± Aurusmanded not long after, obtaining a screen which showed him good news this time.

    ¡®This skill is an S-grade Mortal skill. Would you like to sacrifice 4 of your levels to remove this skill?¡¯

    ¡°Finally, a skill I can remove! Wait a second¡­my calctions were correct as well!¡± Aurus was slightly ecstatic to remove this skill, as well as finding out that he was correct, confirming without hesitation as a notification appeared not long after, informing him of his level dropping down to Level 16.

    Ding!

    ¡®[Supreme Spirit-Vitality Unification] has been removed.¡¯

    Whoosh!

    And just like that, the skill was also removed from the list of active and hybrid skills that Aurus had open. After removing that skill, he focused his sense of vision back towards the list of skills he had, finding a few more skills he could hopefully remove since it seemed that a lot of skills could not be removed due to their connections with his evolutions.

    Eventually, a few minutester, Aurus found two skills he did not use that often, although he grinded both skills to C-grade Transcendent level. One of those skills was the reason why he was admitted into the Tempest Branch Alliance, but after obtaining a defensive skill that did not lose out to the skill¡¯s effect, he decided to remove it. As for the other skill, he did not use it at all, hence he was going to remove it.

    ¡°System, remove [Berserk] and [Invincible],¡± Aurusmanded the system. Not long after, he could not help but think about his decision twice as he came to a realization that these two skills came from his Spiritas evolution. It was then that he expected to obtain a screen that said he could not remove those two skills.

    Ding!

    ¡®Both skills are C-grade Transcendent level, costing 6 levels each to remove. Would you like to use 12 of your levels to remove both skills?¡¯

    ¡°Eh?¡± Aurus was not expecting for the system to actually allow him to remove these two skills. ¡°Are these two skills not an important part of bing a Spiritas?¡± He thought about it a few times, but then decided that it was useless to think about it any further, epting the prompt as a notification appeared not long after, informing him of his level dropping down to Level 4.

    Ding!

    ¡®[Berserk] and [Invincible] has been removed.¡¯

    Whoosh!

    And just like that, two more skills Aurus did not use that often had disappeared from the list of skills in front of his field of vision. Just as he was about to continue finding skills that he could remove¡­

    Ding!

    A notification sound out of nowhere resounded throughout Aurus¡¯ mind, prompting him to open up the notification screen as only good things came from the notifications of the system. And as he continued to read through the notification he received, that idea was fortified even further.

    ¡®Due to the user removing 3 skills out of their own volition, the Skill Fusion ability of the system has been unlocked, allowing the user to fuse two or more skills into one, at the cost of their levels as the user has not yet reached a high enough existence level.¡¯

    ¡°What the¡­¡± At first, Aurus could not believe the fact that he had unlocked such ate game skill, as he could remember quite vividly that although there were only a few ces where skills could be removed in exchange for permanent stat boosts, ces where one could fuse skills together were extremely rare. In fact, Aurus only knew of one ce where he could do so!

    ¡°Are you serious?¡± With this question in mind, he nervouslymanded the system to open up Skill Fusion, with the system responding not long after with a screen that appeared in front of his field of vision, asking about the skills he wanted to fuse together.

    At that moment, Aurus finally believed that he had unlocked skill fusion, causing to cry out in happiness, ¡°To the heavens that look over me, thank you for giving me this opportunity! Kurohana, thank you for giving me this opportunity of being reincarnated as a stick!¡±

    Of course, he could not cry out that loudly, lest he startled Fenrir and Charisa while they were grinding their skills. It took a while to calm down his excitement, but he was still slightly excited nheless. As he looked at the Skill Fusion screen, he could not help but say, ¡°Although I did not get permanent stat boosts from removing skills, allowing me to fuse up skills are always a better trade off.¡±

    He then decided to test out the Skill Fusion ability first, remembering to max out his level as the Skill Fusion ability used up his levels as well. After maxing out his level, he then looked at the list of active and hybrid skills that hovered beside the Skill Fusion screen. He pondered over his first choice for a bit before muttering, ¡°Since all three of them are useless, why don¡¯t they be the first fusion skill I obtain from this ability? Who knows, the skill thates out might actually be incredibly overpowered, I can make it a trump card.¡±

    Whoosh!

    Commanding the system through his mind, he inserted three skills into the Skill Fusion screen, all of them ending with multiple plus signs. Not long after willing the system to fuse the three skills together, the system asked him, ¡®Would you like to fuse [Blooming Vitality+++++], [Indomitable Will+++++], and [Sentience+++++] together? Since all of them are of the same grade, 5 of your levels will be consumed.¡¯

    Although he did not know the price ratio of levels to the grades of skills he was fusing, since it was below 19 levels, which was his maximum at the moment, he confirmed the prompt, instantly reducing his level down to 15 as multiple whirring sounds resounded in his mind.

    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!

    Within his mind, three motes of light, that corresponded to the three skills he wanted to fuse together, manifested in his mind as they collided with one another not long after. From what Aurus could see, the collision of three motes of light was akin to an elegant dance of nature, with the three gradually melding into onerge yet vibrant mote of light as it dissipated not long after.

    Ding!

    Obtaining a notification from the system, Aurus opened up the notification screen at the very instant he could, looking at the byproduct of the skill fusion.

    ¡®Skill Fusion is sessful. The active Life and Will skill [Omnipresence (Rare)] has been created.¡¯

    Reading such an overbearing name from the notification screen, Aurus could not help but open up the skill¡¯s description, wondering if the skill¡¯s description was worthy enough to have such a name.

    Ding!

    At the very instant the screen which contained the skill¡¯s description opened up, Aurus took a quick look over it, maintaining silence for quite a while before silently muttering, ¡°This is disgusting.¡±

    ¡°Incredibly disgusting.¡±

    ¡°This skill is so powerful that it¡¯s incredibly disgusting.¡±

    ¡°Hehehe¡­I¡¯m going to fuse even more skills up!¡±

    ¡°Let¡¯s see how muchbat power I¡¯ll have by then!¡±

 Chapter 146: Addicted to Power

    Chapter 146: Addicted to Power

    Ding!

    ________

    [Omnipresence (Rare)]

    Grade: Transcendent (C)

    Birthed from the harmonious yetplex fusion of indifferent sentience, exuberant vitality, and unyielding willpower, this rare skill allows the user to do things that seem impossible for those that are not endowed with the same level of sentience.

    >Deal 200% increased damage to enemies within a certain radius

    >All short-ranged attacks be long-ranged

    >Reduce the enemies¡¯ stats by 20%

    Time limit: 5 minutes

    FP Cost: 2500 FP

    ________

    ¡°This skill is so powerful that it¡¯s incredibly disgusting.¡± This was the only statement Aurus could let out after reading up on the description of the newly fused skill. Nheless, on the inside, he was looking at the skill in awe, wondering as to what the limits of skill fusion could be. Not only that, he was also pondering as to how he could make this newly fused skill a trump card of his in the uing battle.

    After fusing the three skills that he thought were all useless into one skill that was actually incredibly powerful, Aurus could not help but have expectations for the skill fusions he was about to do next. Indeed, with the realization that he could create intrepidly strong skills, Aurus was now hooked on fusing skills together.

    Whoosh!

    Opening up the Skill Fusion screen once more, Aurusmanded the system to change the list of skills he was looking at topose of all of his skills, not just limiting himself to active and hybrid skills. If active and hybrid skills could be fused, then why not passive skills as well?

    To be honest, after his first sessful skill fusion, he started throwing skills into the Skill Fusion screen at random, only obtaining prompts from the system that informed him that the skillbinations he threw in would not work. It also informed him that the skills that were going to be fused together should have some rtion, or else fusion would not even happen. Surprisingly, there was no downside to fusing skills randomly, just wasted time.

    After that, he also tried fusing skills with the Ruler skills he obtained from the inheritance. Of course, a prompt appeared in front of his field of vision once again, informing him that Ruler skills could not be fused as they were tied to a title of his. To be on the safe side, the system also informed him that he could not fuse two Ruler skills together. Obtaining a prompt like that, Aurus could not help but think that the system had some level of awareness.

    After obtaining those prompts which told him about the limitations of skill fusion, Aurus decided to look at the list of skills once more, taking those words of advice into consideration as he made wiser choices this time, instead of just fusing random skills together willy-nilly, hoping that the fusion would seed.

    And so, a few minutester, after being bombarded with prompts, Aurus used the Skill Fusion screen once more. This time, with the skills he chose having some rtion to them.

    ¡°System, fuse [Flux Chiliocosm], [Chiliocosm of Spirit], and [Stick-Flux Unification] together,¡± hemanded the system, slightly trembling as there was a chance that the fusion wouldn¡¯t go through. Nheless, he was pretty confident that this skill fusion would work as all of them were rted to his energy source. To be more exact, the vessels where he holds the energy.

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    Not long after, three skill names appeared on the Skill Fusion screen, each and every one being the skills Aurus mentioned for the system to fuse. A few secondster, these skill names started to faintly glow as a prompt appeared in front of Aurus¡¯ field of vision not long after. Reading through the prompt, Aurus could not help but radiate an aura of happiness as he muttered to himself in glee, ¡°It finally worked!¡±

    Ding!

    ¡®Would you like to fuse the three skills together? As all three of them are of the same grade, 5 of your levels shall be consumed.¡¯

    ¡°Of course, I do,¡± Aurus replied without hesitation, with three motes of light appearing inside his mind once more not long after. They collided once more with one another as usual, eventually melding into a giant ball of vibrant light. A few secondster, a notification appeared in front of Aurus¡¯ field of vision, informing him of the newly fused skill that had just been created, as well as the fact that his level had dropped down to 9.

    Ding!

    ¡®Skill Fusion is sessful. The passive Species skill [Supreme Spirit-Flux Chiliocosm (Special)] has been created.¡¯

    Of course, since this was a new skill he had obtained, he could not help but read through the skill description, muttering praises in awe as to how amazing the effects were on the newly fused skill.

    Ding!

    _________

    [Supreme Spirit-Flux Fabrication (Special)]

    Grade: Transcendent (C)

    Birthed from the fusion of three skills which served the purpose of containing a strong yet plentiful energy, this skill expands the limit of how much energy, energy being Flux Points, this skill could hold. As a resonance has formed between the three skills, a superbly great amount of FP can be held at once, as well as the fact that a great amount of energy can be regenerated at once. Not only that, the effect of the energy is also enhanced, allowing the user to exert more power into their abilities.

    >Increases efficacy of FP-based skills by 30%

    >Reduces cost of FP-based skills by 30%

    >All thate close to the user gain a 15% increased energy regeneration rate buff

    FP Capacity: 20000

    FP Regeneration Rate: 500 FP per 10 seconds

    ________

    ¡°Tssss¡­¡± Aurus could not help but imitate the sound of sucking air between the teeth, aghast from the effect of the skill whenparing it to the effects of the three separate skills from before. ¡°Although the amount of FP I can utilize is halved thanks to the Spirit Energy Core, that¡¯s still 10000 FP I can use at once! If I had that amount while I was making the Spirit Clone, I would¡¯ve been able to create a Rank 1 Animate clone instead of Rank 0!¡±

    As he continued to think about the possibilities of having a lot of SP, he could not help but say, ¡°Then again, starting out as a Rank 1 Animate by relying through the system would probably be a worse choice than starting out from Rank 0 in the long run.¡±

    ¡°Anyways, moving on.¡± cing these thoughts in the back of his head, he then continued to look at the list of skills that weren¡¯t fused yet, trying to formte a skill fusion that would use up more than 3 skills as that would definitely result in an incredibly powerful skill.

    A few secondster in his attempt of formting such a recipe of skills, he could not help but notice four ss Skills that were around the same line of thought, being around the maniption of Flux for greater power. Well¡­at the very least, that¡¯s how Aurus interpreted it.

    Looking at the Skill Fusion screen once more, Aurusmanded the system, ¡°Fuse all of the active skills regarding Flux.¡±

    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!

    At that moment, four intangible threads of light, that came out of Aurus¡¯ body, made their way towards the Skill Fusion screen, filling up four spaces as the four of them glowed with vibrant light not long after, a decent contrast to that from the skill fusion before.

    Aurus could not help but notice it as well, asking himself, ¡°Is the amount of light emitted by the skills in the resonance proportional to the possible power of the skill?¡±

    He tried to recall the amount of light that was released by the first skill fusion he did, slightly surprised that it emitted a bit more lightpared to the fusion of energy storage skills.

    Ding!

    ¡®Would you like to fuse [Unworldly Flux Weapon Fabrication], [Unworldly Flux Armor Fabrication], [Third Heaven Flux Enhancement], and [Grand Flux Samsara] together? As all of these skills are of the same grade, 8 of your levels shall be consumed.¡¯

    ¡°Hoh? 8 of my levels shall be consumed? Since a fusion of 3 skills cost 5 of my levels, then a fusion of only 2 skills would cost around 2 or 3 levels? I¡¯ll have to find that outter,¡± Aurus muttered for a bit after reading up on the cost of the fusion. Nheless, he epted the prompt, dropping his level down to 2 afterwards. Of course, he used up a portion of his unused experience once more, getting back to max level in an instant as four motes of light appeared in his mind.

    Unexpectedly, while the four motes of light collided with one another in an elegant yet vibrant dance of sorts, Aurus could not help but hear a dragon¡¯s roar resound from the collisions, with it bing more frequent the closer the four were going to fuse as one. Eventually, the four had fused into one entity of light, illuminating Aurus¡¯ mind in a vibrant light as multiple dragon roars resounded not long after.

    Ding!

    Which was followed up by a notification sound.

    ¡®Skill Fusion is sessful. The active Species skill [Ancient Modr Flux Equipment Fabrication (Epic)] has been created.¡¯

    As Aurus read up on the notification he had received, he could not help but gasp in surprise, forcing himself to stay silent as he did not want to startle Fenrir and Charisa, shouting inwardly in extreme glee instead.

    ¡°An Epic skill! I can¡¯t believe it¡­I actually obtained an Epic skill!¡±

    As Special skills were stronger variants of normal skills, Rare skills being stronger variants of Special skills, Epic skills were on a higher levelpared to them. Once a skill had reached the Epic level, even if it was a Mortal skill, it would still output power equivalent to that of a Transcendent level skill, or better yet, a Divine level skill!

    Although Aurus had obtained a lot of Epic skills back in ISE, Legendary skills even, this was the first time Aurus had obtained an Epic skill in his current life, which was based on ISE. Of course, since it was his first Epic skill, he was quite excited to read the skill¡¯s description, bringing it up not long after.

    Ding!

    ________

    [Ancient Modr Flux Equipment Fabrication (Epic)]

    Grade: Transcendent (C)

    Birthed from the fusion of four skills that specialized in the usage of Flux for greater power, a skill that could surpass the power of a lot of skills had been made, allowing the user to forge equipment out of the user¡¯s Flux. Not only that, the skill also allows the user to create modifications to the equipments made in terms of effects, even allowing the equipment to be given out to other users.

    >Grade Range of Crafted Equipment: Grand to Mythic

    >Attachable Effects to Crafted Equipment: Enchantment, Party Resonance

    >Attachable Set Effects to Crafted Equipment: Rejuvenation, Arcana, Damnation, Fortress, Vitality

    >Types of Craftable Equipment: Physical, Magic, Ignition

    FP Cost: 500 FP

    ________

    If Aurus had eyes, those eyes of his would definitely twinkle like a million shooting stars due to the sheer amount of awe and reverence he had for this skill. Not only that, multiple ideas for trump cards started to pop out of Aurus¡¯ mind due to the great amount of modrity Aurus could do to the equipment.

    At the very end of his thinking session, Aurus could not help but mutter, ¡°If this is what skill fusion can give me¡­why don¡¯t I fuse up even more skills?¡±

    And so¡­that¡¯s what he did.

    ¡­

    While Aurus was basking in the feeling of obtaining a lot of ideas, as well as greaterbat power due to the fusions he was doing, something different was happening within a certain portion of the Celestial ne.

    Celestial ne, Kurohana¡¯s ne.

    ¡°Sess.¡± Kurohana could not help but lightly chuckle as she looked through the white orb in front of her, looking at Aurus, who was currently fusing up his skills together.

    While looking at Aurus, she raised both of her hands into the air, manifesting a few threads of green light that went towards the orb not long after. These threads were infused with the Law of Natural Flow, which Kurohana had asked for permission to manipte as she did not want to be berated by Phatia again.

    As she looked at the green threads slowly meld with the orb, disying Aurus¡¯ surroundings, a light smile appeared on her face as she said in a slightly proud manner, ¡°Finally, I removed that invincibility skill from his skillset. With him not having that skill, there would be greater chance for him to lose in the uing war that¡¯s going to happen, forcing him to recuperate. While he¡¯s recuperating, with the help of the threads I infused, that will make someone find him and use him as a weapon!¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m a genius, a true genius.¡± Kurohana could not help butugh after going over through her ns. Not long after though, she continued to look at her orb, letting out a sigh as she muttered, ¡°To be honest, I would have definitely waited for a year since that would allow Aurus to mature even more, increasing the nurturing speed of the weapon. But due to the ne¡¯s current circumstances, I have no choices but to do this.¡±

    As she said this, she could not help but recall the war that happened back then in the Celestial ne, which killed off a lot of Lesser Gods, but allowed a decent number of Lesser Gods to be Greater Gods in the process. Nheless, the memories of the Divine Demon War to Kurohana was something she did not want for others to experience, which forced her to hasten Aurus¡¯ fate of bing a weapon.

    ¡°Unfortunately, I wasn¡¯t able to stop him from forming a Spirit Clone.¡± Kurohana sighed as she panned towards another section of Erudinia, the orb disying an old yet wise-looking man drinking a bit of tea. She could not help but slightly frown as she continued to talk. ¡°If he did not craft a Spirit Clone, then the strength of his soul would boost the nurturing speed of the weapon even further. Unfortunately, it seems that someone in my world has be aware of my actions¡­¡±

    She let out a sigh not long after, muttering, ¡°If I had the time to do so, I would definitely eliminate this fellow, but I have to focus all of my efforts to getting Aurus crafted into a weapon as fast as possible. The weapons I¡¯ve crafted, although having a high grade, don¡¯t have enough power and affinity to fight against the demons.¡±

    ¡°Only with a soul like Aurus¡¯ soul would I be able to create my true masterwork weapon, a weapon that can cut through anything and everything.¡±

    ¡°By then¡­I would also be able to fight against those that plotted against me. Just you wait.¡±

 Chapter 147: Double Betrayal

    Chapter 147: Double Betrayal

    Erudinia, XXXX Continent, Tempest Cliff, Tempest Branch Alliance, Tower of Seclusion.

    Since Aurus was able to fuse 4 skills together to craft up an Epic skill that would serve as an incredibly superb trump card, the motivation for Aurus to continue fusing up his skills was at an all-time high.

    At the moment, he was currently looking through the list of skills he opened up beside the Skill Fusion screen, finding skillbinations that would allow at least three skills to be fused together into one. As to why he was finding skillbinations with that specific amount, it was because all of the resulting fused skills had evolved in terms of rarity. At the very least, the fused skill would be a Special skill.

    Unfortunately, no matter how long Aurus looked through the list of skills, forcing three skillbinations to be formed with the most random rtion he could find, those fusions did not work at all, causing Aurus to sigh as he decided to not force three skillbinations anymore. He decided to pursue two skillbinations instead as he already had a few that he had in mind which seemed to be a match made in heaven at this point.

    ¡°System, fuse [Flux Weapon Mastery] and [Flux Armor Mastery] together,¡± Aurusmanded, to which the systemplied as the two names were brought together to the Skill Fusion screen, radiating an amount of light that did not lose out to the weakest three skillbination.

    ¡®Would you like to fuse these two skills together? As both of them are of the same grade, 3 of your levels shall be consumed.¡¯

    Of course, Aurus epted the prompt without hesitation, seeing the amount of light that was radiated by the two skills when they were in the Skill Fusion screen. Not long after his confirmation, his level dropped down to 17, while two motes of light appeared within in his mind as they collided to form a decently sized mote of light a few secondster.

    Ding!

    ¡®Skill Fusion is sessful. The passive ss skill [Greater Flux Equipment Mastery (Special)] has been created.¡¯

    Whoosh!

    At the very instant the notification appeared on the system, Aurus brought up the skill¡¯s description. After reading through the skill¡¯s description, he could not help but feel satisfied as it would give the equipment he would craft in the future greater stats.

    ________

    [Greater Flux Equipment Mastery (Special)]

    Grade: Unknown

    Birthed from two skills regarding the mastery of usage of Flux, the user can now peer into the intricacies of Flux and allow the equipment they make to show greater power.

    >All crafted weapons gain a 50% boost to all of its stats, and an additional 20% boost to its attack stat

    >All crafted armors gain a 50% boost to all of its stats, and an additional 20% boost to its defense stat

    >All crafted equipment gain a 10% boost to all of its stats, stacking with other boosts

    ________

    After reading up on the enhanced Flux Equipment mastery skill, he then went on to fuse two skills which were rted to his movement. Although he now relied on flight from his Spell Core, as well as limited teleportation from [Nebulous Tempest Blessing], one of the two was still a skill that set the standards for his current movement speed.

    ¡°System, fuse [Transient Spiritas Dash] and [False Nil Teleportation] together,¡± hemanded, obtaining a prompt not long after which informed him of the cost. Seeing the radiated light by the two skills on the Skill Fusion screen, which did not lose out to the light radiated by the previous fusion, Aurus confirmed the decision, bringing his level down to 14 as the same thing in his head happened once more.

    Ding!

    ¡®Skill Fusion is sessful. The active Species skill [Omnipresent Spirit Waltz (Special)].¡¯

    Since the skill was just a movement skill, he only took a cursory nce through the skill description. After a few more cursory nces, he was satisfied with the upgraded effects the movement skill gave him.

    He then went on to fuse [Spiritas Seed] and [Spiritas Flux Seed] together, giving birth to [Supreme Spiritas Seed (Special)]. This skill increased the amount of HP and FP he currently had to greater heights, actually increasing the amount of FP he had by 50 percent.

    Afterwards, he fused two passive skills which were rted to Wind affinity, the skills being [Tempest Unity] and [Blessing of the Lesser Tempest Deity]. After reducing his current level down to 8, a fusion of the two skills was created, being aptly named [Grace of the Divine Tempest (Special)]. He also took a few cursory nces with this skill¡¯s description, being slightly surprised that the boost the skill gave in terms of movement speed was greatly beyond what the two separate skills normally gave.

    He then continued fusing two skills together into one, eyeing the two passive Life and Will skills that he had, slightly expecting a superb effect from the two, just like what happened when the three active Life and Will skills were fused together. And so, with his level going down to Level 5, [Two Worlds¡¯ Overseer] and [Hundred Sentience World] gave birth to [Parallel Sentience (Special)]. Combining the purpose of the two skills, the skill did not only increase the amount of Life and Will points he could store, it also increased his stats by a superb amount once he had both Life and Will bars filled to the brim.

    At this point in time, the list of skills Aurus had at this point was condensed by a great amount, with all of the fused skills obtaining a great boost in power. Of course, with a lot of skills now being fused, only a scant few were left that could be fused. Not only that, some of the skills that were on his skill list that he had not fused yet could not even be fused. Nheless, Aurus did notin about it as he had already fused enough skills together.

    ¡°This is thest fusion I¡¯ll do for now. Doing any more than this is fruitless since all of them don¡¯t have any rtion to one another, may it be in terms of purpose or anything else,¡± Aurus said to himself as he looked at the two skills on the list, having great confidence that the two skills would definitely fuse into one.

    ¡°System¡­¡± Aurusmanded.

    ¡°Fuse [High Spirit Spell Core] and [Nine Damnation Spellswords of Ruination] together.¡±

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    Not long aftermanding the system to do so, the two skills transformed into intangible threads of light that made their way towards the Skill Fusion screen. A few secondster, the two skills radiated a light that slightly surpassed the brightness of the light radiated by the fusion of four skills. This brightness could not help but make Aurus highly expectant of the fusion that would happen, as he was incredibly sure that it would result in an Epic skill.

    Ding!

    ¡®Would you like to fuse the two skills together? As the highest grade among the two skills is B-grade Transcendent, 5 of your levels shall be consumed, allowing the skill to take on the highest grade among the two skills,¡¯ the system¡¯s voice resounded inside Aurus¡¯ head. Just as he was about to ept the offer, the system¡¯s voice continued to speak.

    ¡®The user also has the choice of paying 3 of their levels for the fusion to happen. The downside to it is that the skill would take on the lowest grade among the two skills, the lowest being C-grade Transcendent.¡¯

    ¡®What would the user like to do?¡¯ the system questioned Aurus. Surprisingly, it did not take a long time for Aurus to make a decision, using up his unused experience to max out his yer level as he chose the option that costed 5 levels to use.

    ¡°Since I still have 7 chances to max out my skills, why not let my new main attacking skill be at A-grade Transcendent?¡± Aurus said to himself with a slight chuckle as he imagined the destruction he would cause with the skill in the uing war.

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    With his level now at Level 15, the two motes of light collided with one another, a dragon¡¯s roar resounding with every collision the two motes made. Eventually, the two of them melded with one another to form a mote of light that was at least thrice the size of the two motes individually. Not long after, a deafening dragon¡¯s roar resounded throughout Aurus¡¯ mind as a dragon made out of the light started to coil itself around therge mote of light.

    At first, Aurus was quite confused as to why there was a dragon surrounding the mote of light, but when he obtained the system notification, it was that he understood¡­

    Ding!

    ¡®Skill Fusion is sessful. The active Species skill [Nine Realms¡¯ Myriad Spellswords (Wind Variant) (Epic+)].¡¯

    ¡°That¡¯s a mouthful,¡± Aurus could not help but say as he looked at the name of the newly fused skill and tried to say it in his mind. Nheless, what caught his attention even more was the fact that the skill was of Epic+ level, something which he did not expect to obtain.

    Although he was happy and excited to get such an incredibly powerful skill, he was now quite numb to the fact that all of the fused skills would be stronger in effect and purpose. To him, the only thing that would surprise him would be the birth of a Legendary skill.

    Then again, as he looked at the skill¡¯s description, he could not help but chuckle in surprise.

    Ding!

    ________

    [Nine Realms¡¯ Myriad Spellswords (Wind Variant) (Epic+)]

    Grade: Transcendent (B)

    Birthed from two skills that seem to be on pr opposites of attacking methods, this skill allows the user to use and exert the great power that is created through the fusion of two distinct attacking methods into one, allowing the user to fight against those that surpass itself in power.

    >Has ess to all Wind-based magic spells from Level 0 to Level High 2

    >Can form spellswords based on the Nine Circles of the Underworld, with each circle bringing a different effect to the spellsword

    >Can fuse Wind-based magic with a Circle of the Underworld to form a Tempest Underworld Spellsword

    >Can fuse two or more Tempest Underworld Spellswords together

    >Obtain ess to a lesser ultimate move, Lucifer¡¯s w of Eternal Damnation

    >Obtain ess to a lesser ultimate move, Nine Realms¡¯ Sealing Array

    >Obtain ess to a Level High 2 ultimate move, Immortal Cyclone

    >Obtain ess to a fusion ultimate move, Ethereal Rebirth of Pazuzu

    FP Cost: Depends on the skill/spell used

    ________

    ¡°Just what you¡¯d expect from an Epic+ skill.¡± The more Aurus looked at the skill¡¯s description, the more ideas and inspiration Aurus gets as a way to formte more trump cards and ultimate moves in the war. Nheless, he was able to calm himself down from the awe he felt from looking at the final skill fusion he made, prompting himself to focus on making trump cards, just like what Herellia said some time ago to him.

    He was about to craft his first batch of Flux equipment that originated from the newly fused [Ancient Modr Flux Equipment Fabrication] skill, until a voice resounded in his mind, with a tone that was slightly urgent.

    ¡°Aurus. Aurus, are you there?¡± This voice was that of Herellia¡¯s, who seemed to want Aurus to reply as fast as possible.

    ¡°Yes, I¡¯m here.¡± And that¡¯s what he just did, reply as fast as possible, postponing the creation of Flux Equipment after taking care of Herellia¡¯s situation. ¡°What do you need me for?¡±

    ¡°I need you toe to me as soon as possible.¡± As soon as Herellia heard Aurus talk, she could not help but let out a sigh of relief. ¡°I need to talk with you about something. I¡¯m still at the ce you teleported to a while ago.¡±

    Although he was curious as to why Herellia needed him toe to her to talk about something instead of talking about it here, Aurus decided to just follow Herellia¡¯s wishes, telling both Fenrir and Charisa that he was going to meet someone for a while, before disappearing in front of the two of them.

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    A few momentster, Aurus appeared in front of Herellia, who instantly radiated an aura of slight excitement as she said, ¡°You¡¯re here!¡±

    ¡°Well, why wouldn¡¯t I be here?¡± Aurus could not help but ask as he thought that it was odd for Herellia to be excited at a time when they did not know when the war wasing. Anyways, he then asked, ¡°So, why did you call me here? What are we going to talk about?¡±

    Hearing Aurus¡¯ question, the aura around Herellia had taken a 180-degree turn, radiating an aura of seriousness. She went silent for a bit before answering back, ¡°The alliance has obtained news of Chonk and his armying closer to where we are.¡±

    ¡°Eh?¡± At the very instant Herellia was finished talking, Aurus then understood why Herellia wanted him toe to where he was. He then asked, ¡°How close are they? How much time do we have left?¡±

    ¡°We only have two days to prepare ording to the news,¡± Herellia responded. ¡°It¡¯s better if you make as much trump cards as possible.¡±

    ¡°I definitely will,¡± Aurus responded with an aura of confidence surrounding him as he had ideas for a lot of trump cards since he had fused a lot of his skills together. But before he left to head back to where Fenrir and Charisa were, he could not help but ask Herellia, ¡°Who told you about these things, if you don¡¯t mind me asking?¡±

    At first, Herellia was hesitant to tell Aurus the answer, which piqued Aurus¡¯ interest, prompting him to stay put rather than leave. Seeing as he was adamant to find out who told her of the news she ryed to him, she let out a sigh as she answered, ¡°Fine. It was Horell.¡±

    ¡°Are you serious?¡± At the mention of his name, Aurus could not believe what he was hearing. Sensing an aura of confirmation with a bit of hesitation surrounding Herellia not long after, it seemed that what Herellia was saying was the truth and nothing but the truth.

    Rather than being angry at Herellia keeping this a secret, he was instead dumbfounded as he did not expect Horell to ry news about Chonk to her. Since he was still a bit confused, he then asked, ¡°Isn¡¯t Horell in Chonk¡¯s army? I swear to the gods that I¡¯ve seen him there. Why the hell did he ry information to you?¡±

    It was then that Herellia kept silent for a while, making Aurus wait for the answer with slight trepidation.

 Chapter 148: The Greater Plan

    Chapter 148: The Greater n

    Tempest Cliff, Tempest Branch Alliance, within a secluded part of the alliance¡¯s small ecosystem.

    Herellia did not answer Aurus¡¯ question, instead deciding to stay silent about it as an aura of hesitation surrounded her body. As for Aurus, he was radiating an aura of slight trepidation as his imagination gradually went outside its boundaries, imagining of a situation wherein Herellia would force Aurus to be silent, no matter the method used.

    Fortunately, that was not the case, with Herellia letting out a sigh a couple of minutester. At this point in time, Aurus¡¯ trepidation was at its peak, subconsciously making him roll backwards a bit as a response to the sigh. But once Herellia started talking, this trepidation dissipated in an instant, being reced with an intense aura of curiosity.

    ¡°Alright, alright. I¡¯ll talk,¡± Herellia finally replied to Aurus¡¯ question in a slightly despondent manner. ¡°You have the right to know about it anyway since you¡¯re a Pir level member of the alliance.¡±

    ¡°Plus, you¡¯ve interacted with me even more than the other Pir level members that were with me from the start,¡± Herellia added, the aura surrounding her being reced with an aura of ponderation and slight seriousness.

    Seeing that she was finally going to spill the beans, Aurus repeated the question one more time. ¡°So¡­let me ask you one more time. Why did Horell ry you information about Chonk¡¯s army? Isn¡¯t he one of our enemies?¡±

    ¡°Technically, yes,¡± Herellia answered back. She then added not long after, ¡°But due to some things I¡¯ve done back then, in actuality, that¡¯s a no. He¡¯s not our enemy at all, but instead, a greatrade that would help us out in the uing war.¡±

    ¡°How so?¡± Aurus could not wrap his head around the answer Herellia gave to him, asking this question as a way to understand it better. Fortunately, Herellia was quite understanding, answering his question in a brief and concise manner.

    ¡°Simple.¡±

    ¡°Double agent.¡±

    Hearing Herellia¡¯s answer, Aurus finally put the puzzle pieces together in his mind, creating a map of connections. Not long after though, he could not help but think that there might be a chance that Horell would betray the alliance, helping Chonk in the war instead.

    Just as he was about to ask this what-if to Herellia, it seemed that Herellia was one step ahead of him, saying, ¡°And before you ask me that there is a chance for Horell to betray me and help Chonk instead, I¡¯ve known that for a long time already. Even Horell knew that while negotiating with him to be a double agent. Did I do anything about it?¡±

    While Aurus was waiting for her to say yes as per his expectations, Herellia instead gave a conflicting answer to him, which somewhat lowered his expectations by a bit. ¡°Hmm¡­yes and no, to be honest. You do know that I have a skill that allows me to peer through everything and see the direct truth, I¡¯ve told you about it before.¡±

    ¡°Yeah, you did,¡± Aurus replied with an aura of confirmation surrounding him. He then continued, ¡°What does that have to do with Horell and him being a double agent though?¡±

    ¡°I asked him what he really wanted to do,¡± Herellia replied as she could not help but recall memories from the past, a slight mncholic tone suffusing through her words. ¡°Although he was thankful for Chonk since he saved him, he just wanted to be free. Freedom to grow stronger in his own way was something he wanted to do all this time. With that goal in mind, he thought that he would be able to eliminate all ties with Chonk after doing a favor for him. Unfortunately, Chonk wanted him to be a spy for his own benefit, sending Horell to our alliance in what I can say as the most avant-garde way possible.¡±

    ¡°By avant-garde, you were referring to therge crater he was in, right?¡± Aurus said as he tried to remember Herellia¡¯s story about Horell¡¯s origin. ¡°Sure, it was quite avant-garde, but don¡¯t you think it worked very well as you guys brought him into the alliance?¡±

    ¡°The others just brushed it off, to be honest,¡± Herellia replied as an aura of indifference radiated from her body. ¡°As for me, I had the skill that see through everything and get to the ultimate truth, so I had doubts about him from the start. I told you about it back then.¡±

    Just as Aurus was about to ask Herellia as to what she did to remove her doubts, Herellia was yet again one step ahead of him, continuing her monologue. ¡°I eventually wanted to resolve my doubts about him, to which he cooperated quite well with me after knowing that I had a skill that could peer through the intrinsic truth, as well as knowing his true dream.¡±

    ¡°I then struck up a deal with him, telling him that if ever he was called back by Chonk, forcing him to leave the alliance for some nefarious reason, he would ry information about it to me, so if ever the alliance gets affected, we would have time to prepare,¡± she added.

    ¡°I can¡¯t believe he stayed true to his word.¡± Herellia could not help but chuckle a slight bit. ¡°I didn¡¯t use any binding or contract skills on the both of us, so this was purely out of his own volition.¡±

    Processing all of the things Herellia said to him, Aurus went silent for a few minutes. It was then that something clicked in his head, prompting him to ask her, ¡°As a double agent, he surely wouldn¡¯t only send you the estimated time of arrival of Chonk¡¯s army. Did he send any other information?¡±

    ¡°He did, actually,¡± Herellia replied with an aura of calmness surrounding her. ¡°As for what it is, it¡¯s quite simr to what you sent, but less detailed.¡±

    ¡°I see,¡± Aurus answered back as multiple questions popped up in his mind. ¡°Wait a minute¡­since Horell is on Chonk¡¯s army, but is a double agent, does that mean he¡¯s going to help us fight against Chonk?¡±

    ¡°Hopefully, that¡¯ll be a yes,¡± Herellia said as a reply to Aurus¡¯ question. She then continued after pondering for a bit, ¡°I do have a feeling that he¡¯ll attack us at the start though as a fa?ade to fool Chonk, so I think it might be better if we had more defensive trump cards as a whole.¡±

    ¡°So¡­you want me to create some more defensive trump cards?¡± Aurus could not help but ask, feeling that thest sentence Herellia said was directed at him. And it seemed that he was right, Herellia radiating an aura of affirmation as she replied, ¡°Exactly. Even if it¡¯s a defensive trump card that only applies to you, it¡¯ll still increase our chances of winning. Of course, making more offensive trump cards would also increase our chances as well.¡±

    ¡°Well, you did say that earlier.¡± Aurus could not help but slightly chuckle. ¡°Anyways, is that all you have to say for now?¡±

    Herellia went silent for a bit and pondered, replying not long after with, ¡°Yeah. I guess that¡¯s all for now. I¡¯m pretty sure Horell¡¯s going to update me every once in a while, but it¡¯s better if only I know of it.¡±

    Aurus did not take offense to Herellia¡¯s words as he knew what she was thinking, radiating an aura of affirmation as he said, ¡°Alright then. I¡¯ll be whipping some trump cards that would help the alliance. I mighte here a day or half a day before the war since I have a special trump card that I would like you to test out before the war starts. Is that okay with you?¡±

    ¡°As long as it can help us, that¡¯s fine with me,¡± Herellia replied, radiating an aura of slight happiness as she could not help but think Aurus has contributed quite arge amount of help to the alliance¡¯s preparation.

    ¡°You have to hold up your part of the promise once the timees, okay?¡± Aurus could not help but slightlyugh as he bid his farewell to Herellia, teleporting back to a room within the Tower of Seclusion where Fenrir and Charisa were.

    Whoosh!

    Not long after his departure from where Herellia was, Aurus appeared in front of the two, who were still grinding their skills all this time. He told them to stop for a short bit as he had a few things they had to talk about. Fenrir and Charisa did not mind their interruption as the discussion the three had was quite fruitful, allowing Aurus to put his mind at greater ease than before.

    He then told the two to return to their skill grinding as he headed towards another portion of the room, opening up his skill screen as a certain skill surfaced in his mind not long after browsing through it.

    ¡°System, activate [Ancient Modr Flux Equipment Fabrication],¡± Aurusmanded the system.

    Ding!

    Not long after, a small yetplex-looking holographic screen appeared in front of Aurus¡¯ field of vision. On it were words that read out, ¡®What type of equipment would you like to craft?¡¯

    Unlike before where he had to tell the system what type he wanted to craft, there were choices below the question instead, allowing him to choose between a single piece of equipment, or an equipment set.

    As Aurus had experience creating single pieces of equipment before, to be more exact, twice, he decided that the first experiment he would do with the newly fused skill was to create an equipment set. He selected thetter choice, with the text and choices on the screen changing not long after.

    ¡®What type of equipment set would you like to craft?¡¯

    This time, the choices were three instead of two, being Physical, Magic, and Ignition respectively.

    He already had a bit of knowledge regarding Magic-based equipment. As for Physical equipment, he did not bother about it for now as the first equipment set he was going to make was for himself.

    ¡°Is this Ignition¡­the same type of Ignition I know?¡± Aurus could not help but have his sense of vision fixate on this word as he could not help but recall the destructive effects a piece of Ignition equipment could show. What about a set of Ignition equipment? Wouldn¡¯t that allow him to show extremely destructive power?

    Betting on his chances that this Ignition was the same type of Ignition he knew, he selected the choice as the question on the screen was changed once more. This time, the question on the screen was something he expected to pop up at the end of fabrication. But then, as he looked at the additional text after the question, he found out that there was more to equipment crafting than he thought.

    ¡®What kind of name would you like the equipment set to bear? Note that the name of the equipment set can affect the effects shown by the equipment.¡¯

    He pondered over the equipment set¡¯s name for a while, since the screen told him that the effects of the equipment would change based on the name he would give. Eventually, a name surfaced in his mind as he thought that it would be great to have two sets for two different purposes. One for magic purposes, and one for Animate ying purposes.

    He then decided in his mind to create the Animate ying equipment set first as he then opened his mouth to say¡­

    ¡°I would like this equipment set to bear the name¡­¡±

    ¡°Killer of the Sapient.¡±

 Chapter 149: Tinkering

    Chapter 149: Tinkering

    ¡°I would like this equipment to bear the name of ¡®Killer of the Sapient¡¯,¡± Aurus said as a response to the question disyed on the screen in front of his field of vision.

    Whoosh!

    Not long after Aurus gave his answer, the text on the screen disappeared for a while, seemingly processing the answer Aurus gave to the system. It took around ten seconds or so for the system to respond to Aurus, with text appearing on the screen.

    On the screen, the text said, ¡®The name ¡®Killer of the Sapient¡¯ has been chosen. Due to the name given to the equipment set, all damage dealt to Animates shall be increased by 20 percent. On the other hand, all damage dealt by Animates to the user shall be decreased by 20 percent.¡¯

    ¡°Well then,¡± Aurus could not help but mutter in surprise after reading the text on the screen. ¡°I wasn¡¯t expecting that kind of buff from such a name. To be honest, I would be given an effect that was more on the lines of greater attack, not bnced attack and defense. Then again, that would allow me to fight against Animates for a longer time.¡±

    A few secondster, the text on the screen was changed once more, being reced with what looked like a diagram. To be more exact, it was a diagram which showed the equipment set that was going to be made. As far as what Aurus could see, the equipment set on the diagram was made up of 5 parts, with four of them being armor, while the remaining one was the weapon.

    Aurus did not find any faults in this as this type of set was the mostmon case for MMORPGs, even ISE was not exempt from this pattern. But then, when he thought that the system was just showing him the diagram to see the parts that would be made after he inputs his FP, a prompt appeared on top of the current screen he was looking at, with words being written on it that said, ¡®The user can customize the appearance of the equipment set being shown on the diagram. Not only that, the user can also customize the type of weapon and armor that is being made.¡¯

    Not long after, the text on the screen changed once more as it said, ¡®The type changes that can be made to these equipments are only either Physical or Magic. Changing the equipments¡¯ type to Ignition cannot be made as the Ignition type stacks with Physical or Magic type.¡¯

    Although the words said by the system was quite confusing at first, Aurus understood what the system was trying to imply. What the system was trying to say was that since he already chose an Ignition type equipment set to be made, he could make the effects of Ignition more specific, whether it leaned towards the Physical side of things, or the Magic side of things.

    As he was a mage of his own right, he chose the weapon of the equipment set to lean more towards the Magic side, which made the diagram of the weapon on the screen to glow a faint green. As for the four pieces of armor, which consisted of a helmet, chestte, leggings, and boots that definitely did not fit a wooden sculpture like him, he decided to bnce out the inclination of these pieces of armor as he was sure that he would not just face only magic attacks or only physical attacks in the war.

    With two pieces inclined to defend physical attacks, and the remaining two inclined to defend magic attacks, Aurus was more or less finished customizing the equipment set he was making, except for the fact that he customized the look of the weapon by a bit. He was modifying the weapon to look more like one of the weapons he made before, Staff No. 1.

    Speaking of which, due to the previous Flux Weapon crafting skill being fused into a greater Flux Equipment fabrication skill, Staff No. 2, which was thest weapon he made with the Flux Weapon crafting skill, unfortunately dispersed into FP.

    After customizing the look of the weapon for a few minutes, he was now satisfied with the overall appearance of the set and allowed the system to move on further in the fabrication process.

    Whoosh!

    Being finished with the customization of the equipment set, the system then gave Aurus choices as to what the equipment set¡¯s effect would be. On the screen in front of him were five choices which were inclined towards a certain stat. Two of these choices were focused on enhancing the survivability of the user, another two of the choices were focused on enhancing the offensive power of the user, while the remaining on was focused on enhancing the healing ability of the user.

    Of course, since he was just tinkering with the new fabrication skill for now, he did not bother that much with the equipments¡¯ set effect, although he didmit the name to memory as he was nning to use that to make a better versionter on. In the end, he just chose the Arcana set effect, which boosted the damage output of energy-based attacks by 30 percent.

    Whoosh!

    After the set effects were the unique effects of the equipment set, which he only had two choices to choose from. Reading through the short descriptions under the choices, he found out that choosing the Enchantment effect would boost his overall stats by 10 percent as long as he wore the equipment. As for the Party Resonance effect, it was the same as the Enchantment effect, except for the fact that the more allies that were in the vicinity wearing equipment sets of the same effect, the greater the boost.

    At that point, it was a given that he would choose thetter. But since he was just testing out the skill for now, he went with the Enchantment effect for now.

    Whoosh! Ding!

    And so, the screen in front of his field of vision disappeared, with a monotonous voice resounding throughout his mind not long after.

    ¡®How much Flux Points would you like to invest into this equipment?¡¯ the monotonous voice asked.

    Since he had fused all of his FP storage skills into one giant skill, as well as fused his ss Seed skills into one, the amount of FP that Aurus currently had was enormous whenpared to his previous maximum capacity. After a moment of ponderation, he decided to invest 3000 FP into the equipment set, deciding to use up all of his FP after he made sure of the pattern that he would use when he would manufacture equipment for the alliance.

    Indeed, this fabrication skill was going to be a trump card for the alliance. After finding out that the skill did not limit him from allowing the equipment he crafted to be used by others anymore, the thought of making it a trump card entered his mind and stuck on.

    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!

    Not long after, a cacophony of sounds started to resonate from Aurus¡¯ mind as intangible threads started to shoot out from body, transforming into fiverge balls of light in front of his field of vision not long after. The five balls then started to absorb energy from the surroundings as they gradually took on a shape, to which Aurus noticed were the shapes of the equipment on the diagram he tinkered around with.

    It took a few minutes for the five balls to solidify into the equipment that Aurus envisioned, shrinking down to a size that was near invisible to the naked eye as they headed back to Aurus¡¯ body, seemingly being absorbed by it as a notification sound resounded from the system not long after.

    Ding!

    ¡®The equipment set [Killer of the Sapient] has been created.¡¯

    At the very moment this notification resounded throughout his mind, Aurusmanded the system to open up the information regarding the whole equipment set.

    Ding!

    The system followed Aurus¡¯mands, only to stop as it asked a question.

    ¡®Would the user like to view all of the information of the equipment, or a shortened form?¡¯

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡± Although he wanted to see every bit of information of the equipment, he thought that it would be better for him to just look at the shortened version for now, and save the full version for the equipment that he really put thought intoter.

    ¡°I¡¯ll look at the shortened version for now,¡± he answered back, to which the systemplied as a screen appeared in front of his field of vision. Even though the system said it was a shortened version, the amount of information written on it was still a lot, making him shudder inwardly as he imagined the amount of information he would be reading if he chose the full version.

    Whoosh!

    ________

    [Killer of the Sapient]

    Equipment Type: Ignition

    Rarity: Grand

    Set Effect: Arcana (+20% Magic Damage)

    Unique Effect: Enchantment (+10% boost to stats when worn)

    ¡ª¡ª¨C

    Parts:

    ¡ª¡ª¨C

    [Defiler of Sentience (Weapon)]

    Type: Magic

    > +330-520 Attack

    > -30% Cast Time

    > +30% FP Recovery Rate

    > +30% Damage

    > Has three Ignition stages

    ¡ª¡ª¨C

    [Helmet of Vitality (Armor)]

    [Chestte of Vitality (Armor)]

    Type: Physical

    > +850-1230 Defense

    > -20% Physical Damage Taken

    > +20% HP

    > 10% chance to reflect damage taken

    > Has three Ignition stages

    ¡ª¡ª¨C

    [Leggings of Intelligence (Armor)]

    [Boots of Intelligence (Armor)]

    Type: Magic

    > +430-650 Magic Defense

    > -20% Magic Damage Taken

    > +10% HP

    > 5% chance to nullify damage taken

    > Has three Ignition stages

    ________

    ¡°Even though this is just the shortened form, this is still a lot,¡± Aurus could not help but say in awe as he read through all of it, satisfied with the effects of a Grand level equipment set. Then again, he could not help but think about the stats of a Mythic level equipment set, which was the highest rarity craftable by the skill.

    Nheless, he ced this thought at the back of his head as he closed the screen regarding the equipment set, opening up his skill list as he tried toe up with new trump cards with the skills he had currently.

 Chapter 150: Soul Reconnaissance

    Chapter 150: Soul Reconnaissance

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡± Aurus could not help but ponder as to what trump cards he could make with the skills he had at hand. While he was pondering over what skills to use, he could not help but recall the skills that already had ns to be made into trump cards.

    ¡°First off, I can mass produce equipment using [Ancient Modr Flux Equipment Fabrication], allowing the other alliance members to at least have a boost in survivability andbat power,¡± he started to mutter away to himself as thoughts formed in his mind, shing with one another as the thoughts gave birth to more thoughts, with the intent of finding a good skill to turn into a trump card.

    ¡°As for [Nine Realms¡¯ Myriad Spellswords], it has four incredibly offensive moves. In other words, under the right circumstances, they¡¯re pretty much four trump cards that¡¯s just waiting to be used.¡± At this point in time, the thoughts in his mind had a general idea on what trump card he wants made, but he had no idea where to start.

    ¡°[Lesser Portal Creation] would allow me to transport a great number of the alliance members towards one spot, buffing them up at the same time. Even if the enemies cross through the portal to fight against us in an ambush, it would still allow us to have an edge since they¡¯re going to be debuffed. That¡¯s also a trump card I can use.¡± Not long after, the thoughts condensed into one giant thought, which had a solid form, but had no idea how to make it work.

    ¡°Now that I think about it, I don¡¯t have any defensive trump cards at hand,¡± Aurus muttered as the giant thought veered off to the side of his mind, a new thought forming regarding the defensive trump card he was thinking about. Thankfully, this thoughtsted for a while as it exploded into intangible particles as he said, ¡°With Mythic level equipment, the Barrier skill I have, as well as [Darkme Maniption], that would probably be enough for me to withstand a lot of hits.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯d have to be careful around Pseudo-Inanimates and Animates though,¡± Aurus added as the original thought in his mind started to growrger andrger, as if it was just waiting for that critical element to burst into multiple intangible particles that would allow him to finally make the trump card.

    ¡°Speaking of which, [Omnipresence] would also help in defending myself as that would put me far away from the sidelines,¡± he muttered after a moment of realization. Not long after, he could not help but lightly chuckle. ¡°Then again, it would be stupid for a mage to be in the frontlines.¡±

    ¡°Hmm¡­I¡¯ve basically gone over all of the trump cards I¡¯ve made so far, what else am Icking¡­¡± It was then that the thought in his mind grew at an incredibly fast rate, his sense of vision affixed to the list of skills in front of him. By the time his eyesnded on one of the skills on his skill list, the thought bubble exploded into an array of colors as tons of inspiration started to fill his mind.

    ¡°Ah! Reconnaissance trump cards!¡± Aurus said as the thought bubble had finally burst. Although it did not seem like it, reconnaissance in the midst of war was still a crucial element in order for one side to win in the end. With his vision affixed towards one of the skills he had, he could not help but say, ¡°[Nine Worlds Soul Morphosis]¡­would creating a soul vessel allow me to do such a thing?¡±

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    With that hypothesis in mind, he started to manipte his soul in order for it to form a soul vessel outside his body. Due to the grade of the skill being greatly improved whenpared to before, the speed at which Aurus formed his soul vessel was more or less near instantaneous, only taking around a second or so for it to be formed.

    He could not help but look at the soul vessel, which was hovering in front of him, as the gears in his mind turned. He was thinking up of a way to make this soul vessel in front of him a trump card for reconnaissance. Although it took around half an hour for the idea to pop up in his mind, Aurus could not help but want to try it out as he willed the soul vessel in front of him¡­

    To be split in two.

    Swish!

    At the very instant he was finished manipting the soul vessel, two smaller versions of the original soul vessel appeared in front of Aurus¡¯ field of vision. Seeing that this was the case, he tried to move the soul vessels ording to his wishes. He noticed that he had no problem controlling the two soul vessels if they were moving at the same pattern, but felt a small burden on his mind when he willed the two soul vessels to move their own paths, allowing his soul vessels to cover more ground.

    Nheless, realizing that the burden on his mind was more or less negligible, he decided to split the soul vessels into two once more, giving him a total of four soul vessels. At this point, even when he was doing nothing, he felt the same level of burden he felt while controlling two soul vessels independently. Of course, that meant that the burden for controlling all four at once to move at various directions had increased by a few notches, slightly hampering his thinking process.

    Did he stop here? Surprisingly, he did not as he thought that reconnaissance trump cards should cover a lot of ground at once if they wanted to be obtain as much information as possible at once. Of course, he did think that one soul vessel was enough for reconnaissance, but as he split up the soul vessels into smaller and smaller partitions, he could not help but think of another purpose for this trump card.

    And that was to attack the enemies from behind.

    He split up the four soul vessels into eight, the burden on his mind naturally stepping up as he felt that he was nearing the limit of what his mind can handle. He also tested moving the eight soul vessels independently, which brought his mind to a state where he could only maintain a basic form of protection around him. Then again, for someone like him that wasn¡¯t in the front lines in the uing war, a basic form of protection would more or less be enough.

    He then arranged the eight soul vessels in a line in front of him, with each being one-eighth the volume of the original soul vessel. He thenmanded the system to identify one of the soul vessels, wondering if the thought of using these soul vessels offensively could be executed.

    Ding!

    ________

    [Aurus¡¯ Soul Vessel]

    Grade: Unknown

    Soul Strength: 47

    ________

    ¡°Soul Strength of 47?¡± Aurus could not help but ask the system about Soul Strength after reading up on one of the soul vessels¡¯ information. A few secondster, he found out that Soul Strength was the manifestation of the soul¡¯sbat power, equivalent to the Soul Power stat he had, but doubled.

    With the system saying that, he could not help but fuse the soul vessels into one once more as he looked at the Soul Power stat he had through the Soul Enchantment System. After making a few speedy calctions in his mind, he realized that that was indeed the case, with each soul vessel after being split having the same portion of Soul Strength within them.

    After knowing that, he willed the soul vessel to be split into eight once more, manipting the soul vessels to transform into soul des not long after. He then tried to control these eight des in a way that would allow them to attack with great power in just a single attack, ending up with the idea of having one de attack after the other, with each de hitting the same position.

    Although he had a feeling that such an attack would allow his soul vessels to show great power, he would have to test it on a dummy that would allow him to see the damage he dealt. Unfortunately, the room he picked right now within the Tower of Seclusion did not have a dummy like that inside.

    Putting the offensive portion of the trump card aside, he wondered about how he was going to solve the problem of obtaining information through the soul vessels. To be honest, this was supposed to be the first problem he needed to solve, but due to the spark of inspiration he obtained out of the blue, that was dyed only to pop up right now as he looked at his skill list once again, wondering if there was any skill that could remedy this problem.

    It did not take long for Aurus to find a fix for the problem, his sense of vision fixated on [Eye of the Soul], which was the skill that allowed him to see in the first ce. Not only did it allow him to see, it even allowed him to see things that could not be normally seen by other Inanimates. He had the thought that since the skill had rtions to the soul, would the two fuse into one, allowing him to see the surroundings through the split up soul vessels?

    Although he had a feeling that it wouldn¡¯t work since [Eye of the Soul] was a passive skill, he tried it anyway.

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    With his thoughtsmanding the system for [Eye of the Soul] to affect the eight soul vessels that were in front of his field of vision, an intangible energy that seemed to resonate the power of the skill started to circte throughout Aurus¡¯ body, heading towards the eight soul vessels through intangible strands not long after.

    Swish! Swish!

    A few secondster, these strands of intangible energy were assimted by the soul vessels, his current field of vision dimming as it was reced by eight perspectives not long after. Seeing that he was able to see everything from eight perspectives, he could not help but deem the experiment a sess, although he was not sure how he was able to infuse [Eye of the Soul] into the soul vessels.

    He then manipted the soul vessels to move farther away from one another, changing the view that Aurus was able to see. Surprisingly, rather than having eight perspectives like before, the views of every soul vessel connected with one another, stitching each view to form something along the lines of a bird¡¯s eye view of the room Aurus was in.

    Not long after, he willed the eight soul vessels toe back to him, removing the infused [Eye of the Soul] from each and every soul vessel. He then willed the soul vessels to meld with his body, returning the strength of his soul back to normal. He was quite satisfied with the trump card he made, with the offensive portion of the trump card just being an added bonus.

    Just as he was about to head towards one of the rooms within the Tower of Seclusion that contained a dummy, a sudden thought popped up in his mind. This thought in his mind could not help but make his mutter inwardly, ¡°Why the heck did I not think of that while I was fusing skills?¡±

    ¡°Oh well, betterte than never,¡± Aurus said with a sigh of relief,manding the system to open up the Skill Fusion screen.

    Whoosh!

    ¡°System, fuse [Nine Worlds Soul Morphosis] and [Eye of the Soul] together,¡± hemanded, to which intangible strands of energy headed towards the Skill Fusion screen not long after. These intangible strands transformed into the names of the skills, radiating quite a decent amount of light.

    Ding!

    ¡®Would you like to fuse these two skills together? The user has two choices, the first choice being that the fused skill would take on the highest grade out of the two skills, costing 5 levels. The second choice would be the opposite, with the skill taking the lowest grade out of the two skills, costing 3 levels instead.¡¯

    Since Aurus had gone through something like this before, he did not hesitate to choose the former option, dropping his level down to 10 as the usual process of skill fusion did its work.

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    Ding!

    ¡®Skill Fusion is sessful. The hybrid Species skill [Unified Soul Control (Special)] has been created.¡¯

    Seeing as the skill fusion was sessful, he then activated the skill once more as he said to himself, ¡°Time to see if there¡¯s any improvement.¡±

 Chapter 151: Fight for the Throne

    Chapter 151: Fight for the Throne

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    In an instant, Aurus manifested his soul once more outside his body as a soul vessel. This time, he could not help but notice the improvement of manifesting a vessel in terms of speed. Not long after that, he then split up the soul vessel into two. He then did a test to see the level of burden he would obtain while manipting the two separate vessels independently, noticing that the level of burden on his mind was significantly reduced after fusing the two skills together.

    Of course, he continued to split the soul vessels once more, increasing the number of soul vessels in front of his field of vision to four, then eight not long after. Surprisingly, Aurus could still think quite actively while controlling the eight vessels as they moved in different directions, which allowed him to deploy a greater level of protection once the war starts.

    Just as he was about to call it a day, a thought popped up in his mind all of a sudden as he decided to split the soul vessels into two once more.

    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!

    At this point, he now had 16 soul vessels in front of his field of vision, each having a sixteenth of the Soul Power of the original soul vessel. As for the burden on his mind, it was more or less equivalent to the level of burden he felt while controlling eight soul vessels with only the [Nine Worlds Soul Morphosis] skill. Then again, that was only when he did not move the soul vessels in different directions.

    Once he did attempt to move the 16 soul vessels in different directions, although he came to the conclusion that it would allow him to see more of thendscape in the heat of war with the vision portion of the skill activated, he was severely debilitated in the mental area just like before, only allowing him to put up a basic level of protection around his body. Nheless, he was quite satisfied, deciding to use the 16 soul vessels if he was going to act as reconnaissance, and the 8 soul vessel form when he was going to attack and act as reconnaissance at the same time.

    ¡°Well then, I guess my control over multiple soul vessels has improved, increasing it to 16,¡± Aurus said to himself, very satisfied with the improvement the newly fused skill brought. Not long after that, he told Fenrir and Charisa that he was going to head towards another part of the Tower of Seclusion as he wanted to test out the destructiveness of his skills.

    The two found no problem with that and told their master to still be on alert. In response, Aurus let out an aura of slight happiness before disappearing in front of the two¡¯s visions, heading towards one of the dummies situated within the Tower of Seclusion.

    ¡­

    While the whole Tempest Branch Alliance was preparing for the worst in the uing war that was going to befall them, an Animate was currently trying to fulfill thest goals given to her by her master, which would ultimately allow her to transition into a stronger ss among the sses of the higher ranks.

    XXXX Continent, Seraph Kingdom, Arcana Tower.

    Glurg glurg¡­glurg glurg¡­

    Within one of the training rooms that were allotted to those that reside within the Arcana Tower, a young woman was arduously manipting a small ball of water in front of her, trying her best to solidify the shape of the ball as a sphere. At the current moment, although the shape of the water ball in front of her was more or less a sphere, to be more exact, there were still times where her control over the water ball would falter, making the ball ripple every once in a while.

    This young woman was none other than Erea, Dane¡¯s only student who was trying to master the Lower Level 1 spell she recently bought in a bid to allow her to transition into a stronger Rank 3 ss.

    Ssh!

    ¡°Aah!¡± Erea could not help but scream out as the water ball she was controlling had abruptly burst. Due to the water ball bursting, it was a given that Erea was soaked by the water. Nheless, she was not angry over the fact that she was not able to control the water ball properly, which led to the slip-up that made the water ball burst.

    Instead, she took a few deep breaths with her eyes closed, before sitting down on a nearby chair as she recalled the sensation she felt while manifesting and controlling the water ball. From there, she reflected on her mistakes, which allowed her to ponder on how she could reduce the time of manifestation, as well as increase her level of control over the water ball after manifestation.

    ¡°If I manipte my mana in a way that would allow the whole water ball to roll clockwise, that would allow me to have a greater chance to fully control the ball. At the very least, that would allow me to call the activation of the spell a sess. Then again, that isn¡¯t a true [Aqua Sphere] though since that would need me to mimic the movements of water in a natural setting, taking into consideration the ripples, the breeze, and so on,¡± she started to mutter to herself as she reflected over her possible workarounds to activating the spell sessfully.

    ¡°Of course, I could remedy this if I put more time into improving my affinity with the Water element,¡± she said not long after, only to chuckle afterwards as she added, ¡°If I have both ideas, why not just do both at the same time?¡±

    Fwoosh!

    She then stood up from her chair, extended her right arm as a small fireball manifested on her palm. Not long after, she manipted the fireball to travel all around her body, drying off the water that was on her robe. While looking at her exquisite control over the fireball, she could not help but ponder over it as she muttered to herself, ¡°Hmm¡­how about I take some of the things I do while controlling this fireball? Then again, this fireball is the only Lower Level 1 Spell I have mastered so far.¡±

    Step. Step. Step.

    Not long after, she headed towards the center of the training room and stood there, closing her eyes as she attuned her body to the mana in the surroundings.

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    A few secondster, a blue haze started to appear around Erea¡¯s body, to which she opened her eyes as she extended one of her arms forward, a magic circle appearing a few centimeters away from the extended palm not long after.

    ¡°1st Circle. Aqua Radialis Opensei.¡±

    ¡°[Aqua Sphere]!¡±

    Swish!

    At the very instant she finished chanting the incantation for the spell, the magic circle started to glow a faint blue hue, to which the blue haze around her started to congregate towards. Bit by bit, the magic circle she created started to shrink, to which a water ball that was growing in size bit by bit was recing the magic circle¡¯s ce.

    Eventually, a water ball that had the diameter of two tennis balls manifested a decent distance away from Erea¡¯s extended palm, slightly rippling here and there. Just as she noticed this, she then muttered to herself, ¡°It¡¯s time to test it out.¡±

    ¡°Spin!¡± she shouted out as a portion of her mana started to circte throughout her body, channeling outwards through her extended arm. She then released this mana through the tips of her fingers, with each strand of mana making its way towards the slightly unstable water ball in front of her, forcing the movement of the water that made up the water ball to spin in a certain direction.

    Swish! Swish! Swish!

    A few secondster, the whole water ball was spinning in a clockwise direction, its form not even bing unstable after Erea walked close towards it, making sure to maintain control as she got closer. Seeing that there was no chance for it to burst into multiple droplets right now, Erea could not help but feel tion as she screamed inwardly with joy, ¡°Sess!¡±

    Glurg glurg¡­

    Just as she screamed inwardly with joy, the spinning water ball slightly rippled, which made Erea calm down from her sudden bout of joy, continuing to maintain her full concentration on controlling the water ball. After attempting to move the water ball in a few directions, finishing off by letting her water ball circle her body, she dispersed the water ball not long after, filled with the feeling of excitement and satisfaction after finally manifesting a water ball without making it burst.

    ¡°Now, I just have to make it into a true [Aqua Sphere],¡± Erea said to herself while going over the methods to gradually reach that stage. Not long after, a thought popped up in her mind all of a sudden as she said, ¡°Since I can now sessfully manipte a water ball somewhat, I think I can try casting the two Lower Level 1 spells I have at the same time.¡±

    Attuning her body to the mana in the surroundings, a faint red haze started to surround her body a few secondster. She then raised her left arm as she opened up her palm, to which the red haze converged towards as a magic circle appeared on it. Not long after, a stable yet fiery ball of fire manifested on top of Erea¡¯s left palm, bobbing up and down as it was radiating a decent amount of heat.

    She then took a deep breath and let out a long sigh before raising up her right arm. ¡°Now, it¡¯s time to cast [Aqua Sphere] and control the two of them at the same time.¡±

    She opened up her right palm as she split up the consciousness in her mind into two, letting one control the fireball that was currently hovering, while the other one was to manifest the water ball and control it without making it burst.

    Unfortunately, since she was not used to splitting up her consciousness into two as she had not gone through a training regimen for things like these, a greater portion of her consciousness was still focused on the fireball, with only a small portion focused on the water ball she was trying to form.

    Whirr¡­whirr¡­

    As she chanted the spell for [Aqua Sphere], only a small amount of blue haze surrounded her body as a magic circle appeared on top of her palm, flickering every so often. A few secondster, the magic circle made a cracking sound as it dispersed into mana, with the blue haze that was covering her disappearing as well not long after.

    Seeing as her first attempt failed, she could not help but sigh as she dispersed the fireball on her left palm. A few secondster, she could not help but chuckle as she muttered to herself, ¡°This is just the first attempt. There¡¯s still a ton of room for improvement. I will achieve what teacher told me to do!¡±

    Just as she was about to start on her second attempt, a voice that was extremely familiar to her resounded throughout her mind, prompting her to put what she was doing aside as she headed out of the training room she was in, heading towards a higher floor of the Arcana Tower.

    ¡­

    Creak¡­

    Erea slowly opened up the door to one of the rooms found in a higher floor of the Arcana Tower that was only reserved for higher ranked mages. At the very instant the room was fully opened, a man in a ck robe that was wearing ck rimmed eyesses appeared in front of Erea, a smile appearing on his face as he saw Erea and said, ¡°Ah, if it isn¡¯t Erea. Come in and have a seat.¡±

    Erea lightly nodded to the man¡¯s words, closing the door behind her before sitting down on a chair that faced opposite the man. This man was none other than Dane, Vanadir¡¯s helper, as well as Erea¡¯s teacher.

    ¡°Teacher, why did you call me toe to your room all of a sudden?¡± Erea could not help but ask as it was indeed a sudden message from his teacher.

    ¡°I apologize if I dyed you or anything, but I just wanted to check up on you,¡± Dane answered back with a light smile on his face. He then added, ¡°I also wanted to talk with you regarding something.¡±

    ¡°Ehem.¡± Dane cleared his throat before looking at Erea with eyes that exuded seriousness as he asked, ¡°How¡¯s your progress in achieving my goals?¡±

    ¡°Err¡­¡± Erea recalled what she had done for a while before responding, ¡°I have already achieved most of the goals you¡¯ve given me, teacher. The only goal left that I haven¡¯t aplished is casting two Lower Level 1 skills at the same time.¡±

    ¡°But your stats are eligible enough for you to transition to a Rank 3 ss, right?¡± Dane asked back, looking at Erea with a hint of curiosity.

    Erea nodded to her teacher¡¯s question, responding, ¡°Indeed. I¡¯ve been feeling that I could transition to the next ss at any time now, but I dyed that due to the goal you gave me, which you said would allow me to transition into a stronger Rank 3 ss.¡±

    ¡°I see, I see. Good job,¡± Dane replied while nodding his head, a smile appearing on his face while nodding. After a moment of silence between the two of them, Dane¡¯s smile was wiped off as he leaned closer towards Erea, asking, ¡°Erea, you do know that I¡¯m Vanadir¡¯s helper and advisor, right?¡±

    ¡°Yes, I do, teacher,¡± Erea responded with a nod. ¡°The Ninth Prince of the Seraph Kingdom, Prince Vanadir Seraph, right?¡±

    ¡°Yes, that Vanadir.¡± Dane nodded. He then opened his mouth not long after as he said, ¡°Anyways, I have a question for you.¡±

    ¡°Would you like to join Vanadir¡¯s faction in the fight for the throne?¡±

    ¡°Eh? Pardon?¡±

 Chapter 152: Devourer of the Living

    Chapter 152: Devourer of the Living

    XXXX Continent, Seraph Kingdom, Arcana Tower.

    Dane had an aura of seriousness radiating about him as he looked at Erea, his student, with a gaze also filled with seriousness. He then opened his mouth to ask her, ¡°Would you like to join Vanadir¡¯s faction in the fight for the throne?¡±

    ¡°Eh?¡± A few seconds of silence ensued between the two of them, before Erea let out a tiny sound of confusion as she cleaned her ears with her fingers. She then looked at her teacher not long after and asked, ¡°Was I hearing your question incorrectly, teacher? Could you repeat the question one more time?¡±

    Fortunately, Dane did not take offense to Erea¡¯s request, since it was quite a surprising favor to get in full honesty. He then cleared his throat and said the question one more time. ¡°Erea, would you like to join Prince Vanadir Seraph, the Ninth Prince of Seraph Kingdom, in his fight for the throne?¡±

    ¡°I didn¡¯t hear wrongly,¡± Erea could not help but mutter in disbelief, still processing the fact that her teacher was actually requesting a favor from her, quite an extravagant favor at that. She then pondered over Dane¡¯s question in silence for a few minutes and then asked him, ¡°But why me, teacher?¡±

    ¡°Err¡­¡± Dane scratched his head as he lightly chuckled in an awkward manner. A few secondster, he replied to her question, saying, ¡°Well¡­as his advisor and helper, it wouldn¡¯t make sense if the advisor¡¯s student doesn¡¯t help the prince in the fight for the throne, right?¡±

    Hearing the words that came out of her teacher¡¯s mouth, Erea could not help but feel like those words were forced, as if it was meant to coerce her into epting his favor. Not only that, she also felt like what he said was more or less a tant lie. With those thoughts in mind, she could not help but look at her teacher with quite a serious gaze and ask, ¡°Is that really the case, teacher?¡±

    ¡°Hahaha, yeah¡­it definitely is¡­¡± Dane lightly chuckled in awkward manner, with silence enveloping the two of them not long after. Eventually, the silence between the two became incredibly deafening, leaving Dane with no choice but to let out a sigh as he replied with a light smile, ¡°Fine, fine. I¡¯ll admit to it.¡±

    ¡°Although I¡¯m a Rank 4 High Mage of this tower, I¡¯m not a pretty social guy,¡± Dane said. ¡°So, when the Ninth Prince tasked me to build a team that had ss ranks around the same level as him, I was more or less forced to consider you as part of his team. I hope you can understand.¡±

    ¡°Of course I do, teacher,¡± Erea answered back, adding not long after, ¡°I would also like to apologize if my question hurt your feelings.¡±

    ¡°Not at all, not at all,¡± Dane replied with a light smile. He then continued, ¡°To be honest, I should¡¯ve been honest in the first ce.¡±

    ¡°Anyways, would you help me out this time? I would answer anything you ask me in exchange, no limits whatsoever,¡± Dane asked one more time, adding on a reward at the end of it, like some sort of carrot on a stick.

    ¡°Although I would like to help you out teacher, I would have to decline.¡± Erea let out a sigh. ¡°It¡¯s not that I don¡¯t want to join. To be honest, I really do. It¡¯s just that I could not help but fear that I would be a burden to the Ninth Prince¡¯s team, acting as the weakest link which would lead to the team¡¯s demise.¡±

    ¡°Why are you thinking about that? You don¡¯t even know what you¡¯re participating in.¡± Dane could not help but frown after hearing his student¡¯s reasoning. ¡°The fight for the throne consists of multiple rounds, and I can tell you with certainty that you won¡¯t be a burden in almost every round it consists of.¡±

    ¡°But what if I¡­¡± Just as Erea was about to give another reason, Dane interrupted her from continuing her words, saying in exchange, ¡°Trust me on this one. The fight for the throne doesn¡¯t start until about a month from now, which is more or less enough time for you to transition to a Rank 3 ss. Now, will you be a burden by then?¡±

    Hearing her teacher¡¯s words, Erea was left with no choice but to sigh, looking at her teacher and saying, ¡°Alright then, teacher. If it is as you say¡­¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll join Prince Vanadir¡¯s team in the fight for the throne.¡±

    ¡­

    XXXX Continent, Tempest Cliff, Tempest Branch Alliance, Tower of Seclusion.

    Whoosh! Fwoosh!

    About half a minute has passed since Aurus left the room where Fenrir and Charisa was, teleporting here and there through the multiple floors that constituted the Tower of Seclusion, eventually finding the room that he was looking for after another minute or so.

    Whoosh!

    He closed the door behind him as he entered the room that had a dummy that could gauge the damage he would output. But then, just as he was expecting a training dummy that had the appearance of a scarecrow, instead, a long stone pole appeared in front of his field of vision, slightly surprising him in the process.

    Seeing the stone pole in front of his field of vision, he could not help but recall back to the time when he was about to evolve to S-grade Inanimate, and how he tested the strength of his offensive skills back then. At that point, he then vividly remembered the fact that it wasn¡¯t a training dummy that he was hitting to gauge damage, it was actually a long stone pole, just like the one in front of him right now.

    Since that was the case, he decided to just get on with testing the damage output of his skills. Of course, he was going to first test out the skill, well¡­his offensive and reconnaissance trump card, that he made a while ago.

    Swish! Swish! Swish!

    Due to being used to it already, eight soul vessels had formed in front of Aurus, not even taking a second to form. With a negligible level of burden affecting his mind rather than a severe level, he was able tomand these eight soul vessels in front of him independently like amandermanding his soldiers, moving the eight soul vessels in a circr pattern around the stone pole.

    Just as he was looking at how the eight soul vessels were positioned, he could not help but notice their appearance as he muttered to himself, ¡°Since this trump card is going to be used more as reconnaissance, rather than a sneak attack, wouldn¡¯t it be better to hide them from being seen by others?¡±

    After thinking about it for a while, he could not help but call himself an idiot for not thinking about it earlier. Fortunately, the skill that controlled the soul vessel did not just focus on maniption and seeing using the soul, but also focused on suppressing the presence of the soul. With that activated, the eight soul vessels surrounding the stone pole had seemingly vanished into thin air, as if they weren¡¯t there in the first ce.

    But thanks to the connection Aurus had with the soul vessels since those vessels were ultimately a part of his soul, he knew for a fact that they were there, molding them into small yet sharp swords not long after.

    With the eight soul swords pointing their tips towards the stone pole, a thought popped up in his mind, prompting him to ask himself, ¡°What name should this attack have?¡±

    ¡°Since there are eight soul vessels, which have transformed into swords, aiming at the same enemy¡­hmm¡­yeah, I guess that¡¯s the optimal name for it.¡±

    ¡°[Soul de Octagon]!¡±

    Swish! Swish! Swish! Swish!

    As he muttered this name, he then controlled the eight soul des to attack the stone pole one by one, making sure that they were hitting the same area. Surprisingly, as the next de hit the same area, a soft roar gradually became louder in volume, with the final de resounding quite a loud roar at the very end.

    After the final de hit the area where the previous seven des hit, the final de dissipated into intangible threads as they made their way back to Aurus in a matter of milliseconds. These intangible threads were a part of his soul, which he retrieved since it would be stupid to not retrieve.

    Ding!

    A few secondster, a holographic screen appeared a decent distance away from the long stone pole, allowing him to look at the damage he had dealt with the attack. Of course, he could see the damage he dealt through his system, but due to his current firepower, the numbers that he got from the system was just too high that he decided to ignore it instead.

    ¡®Damage dealt: 12.537 points¡¯

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡± Aurus could not help but try to recall the meaning of these points, recalling the memory of the first time he used this stone pole. Eventually, he was able to recall the meaning of the points, muttering to himself, ¡°If I could remember correctly, a point of damage on the stone pole is equivalent to a thousand points of damage dealt to an Inanimate. In other words, I was able to deal around 12 thousand points of damage with that trump card. As an offensive trump card, it¡¯s pretty average, but since it¡¯s a stealth attack that¡¯s meant to surprise rather than kill, it¡¯s definitely more than enough.¡±

    After that, he tested out the strongest spellsword in the [Nine Realms¡¯ Myriad Spellswords] skill, also known as the Sword of Treachery. Thanks to the skill fusing with his Spell Core skill that leaned towards the element of Wind, the speed at which the spellsword flew towards the stone pole was more or less an instant for Inanimates.

    Bang!

    Not long after, a loud explosion sound resounded throughout the room, with a shockwave shaking the room not long after. While the shockwave was shaking the whole room, Aurus could not help but say, ¡°Just with this spellsword alone, it has brought about a pretty destructive effect. I wonder how destructive it would be if it was a fusion of spellswords, or better yet, an ultimate move from the skill?¡±

    Ding!

    A few secondster after the spellsword collided with the long stone pole, a holographic screen appeared in front of the stone pole, allowing Aurus to see the damage he dealt. This time though, he could not help but have a greater opinion about the fused skill, thinking that it was very worth it to fuse the two skills together.

    ¡®Damage dealt: 53.285 points¡¯

    ¡°50 thousand points of damage?¡± Aurus could not help but mutter. ¡°That¡¯s basically a one hit instant kill on those X-grade Inanimates!¡±

    A few secondster, a thought popped up in his mind as he asked himself, ¡°Now¡­what if I had [Grand Spiritas Deification] activated? Wouldn¡¯t that increase the damage I deal from 50 points with this single sword to a few hundred points? What about a fused spellsword? And what about an ultimate move?¡±

    Just as he was itching to test out thebination of [Grand Spiritas Deification] with the spellswords, the rational part of him stopped him from continuing any further as he muttered to himself in realization, ¡°Ah, right. With the spellsword alone, the whole room shook quite violently. If I had that skill activated alongside the attack, then this room might¡¯ve probably vanished off from the face of this world for good from the aftereffects alone.¡±

    And with that, he also refrained himself from using an ultimate move from the [Nine Realms¡¯ Myriad Spellswords] skill, knowing very well that a greater destructive effect woulde about if he tried to use it in this room. Nheless, he was quite satisfied with his damage testing, hoping that he would not be restricted in terms of damage once the war between the alliance and Chonk¡¯s army starts.

    Whoosh!

    Since he was finished with the damage testing, he teleported back to the room where Fenrir and Charisa were grinding within the time span of a minute. He appeared in front of the two of them, telling them of his results as they continued to talk for a bit more about their ns, before the two continued on with their grinding.

    After talking about their ns, Aurus went towards a corner of the room as usual. This time though, he opened up the Flux Equipment fabrication screen as he decided to dedicate most of this time before the uing war to craft Flux Equipment for his alliance members.

    Ding!

    ¡®Would you like to craft a single piece of equipment or an equipment set?¡¯

    Since Aurus thought that the more equipment he crafted, the more alliance members would be able to tank hits, he decided to just craft equipment sets instead of single pieces of equipment. Not long after that, the screen asked him as to what type of equipment he wanted to craft, deciding to just make all of the equipment he crafted in the future to just be that of the Ignition type, adding on the specialties along the way.

    Ding!

    ¡®What name would you like the equipment set to have? Note that the name of the equipment would affect the additional effects on the crafted equipment set.¡¯

    At this point, just as he was about to tell the system that he would like the equipment set to be named ¡®Killer of the Sapient¡¯ once more, he then thought of a greater name that would fit an equipment set made with the purpose of killing Animates.

    Going over the name a few times in his head, he then told the system of the new name he had in mind.

    ¡°System, I would like to name the equipment set¡­¡±

    ¡°Devourer of the Living.¡±

 Chapter 153: Mythic Level Equipment

    Chapter 153: Mythic Level Equipment

    ¡°I would like this equipment to take on the name ¡®Devourer of the Living¡¯,¡± Aurus said after pondering over the name of the equipment set multiple times in his head. Due to the fact that the prompt had popped up once more, telling him that the name of the equipment would affect the additional effect given by the system, he decided to scrap ¡®Killer of the Sapient¡¯ as he pushed his soul to the fullest, thinking up of an overbearing name that had simrities to the former name, but felt more tyrannical.

    Whoosh!

    The system took Aurus¡¯ name and went silent for a bit, possibly processing the name and considering the effect that it would give in exchange. At the very least, if the name would give out a bnced effect of increased offense and defense, the values should at least be a bit higher than before. What he was hoping for right now was an effect that leaned towards extreme offensive power, as he was someone who would be at the sidelines, firing away from a distance.

    Ding!

    Eventually, about a minuteter, a holographic screen appeared in front of his field of vision, informing him of the additional effects that the equipment system would have. After skimming through the effect given by the system, he could not help but feel ted that the effect now leaned more towards greater offensive power.

    ¡®The name ¡®Devourer of the Living¡¯ has been chosen. Due to the name given to the equipment set, all damage dealt to Animates shall be boosted by an increment of 50 percent, while all damage dealt by Animates on the user shall be reduced by 10 percent.¡¯ These were the words written on the holographic screen that popped up in front of him.

    After confirming the effects of the equipment set¡¯s name, he then moved onto the customization portion of the equipment, to which he made the weapon lean towards Magic Damage, while having his armor lean both towards Magic and Physical Defense. Since he was used to its shape, he designed the weapon on the equipment set to take on the appearance of Staff No. 2, confirming it after putting a few embellishments on the armor to make it stand out a bit.

    Ding!

    ¡®How many FP would you like to invest in this equipment?¡¯ A screen appeared in front of Aurus¡¯ field of vision not long after customizing the equipment set¡¯s appearance and type. This time, he thought about the amount for a while, since he had a feeling that the more FP he invested into the equipment set, the higher the grade it would have. He then recalled that investing a value of around 3000 FP was enough to achieve a grade of Grand, but as he remembered correctly, that was the minimum grade given to any equipment crafted through the skill.

    It was then that he pondered as to what was the minimum amount needed to reach the Mythic grade of equipment. Indeed, to have a higher fighting chance against the Animates in the uing war, as well as make the equipment sets a superb trump card, he was going to try and have his own equipment set be at the Mythic grade of quality. As for the Pir level members, as well as Herellia, Legendary level equipment, which was just one grade below Mythic, would probably be enough for them. For Executive level and normal members of the alliance, he would just give them Epic level equipment, which was a grade above Grand, but below Legendary.

    After a few moments of ponderation, he then decided to invest all of his FP into the equipment set, amounting to approximately 15000 FP. As soon as he said that, all of the FP in his FP storage was gone, turning into a swarm of intangible threads that headed towards the holographic screen in front of him. Fortunately, since he had fused all of his storage skills, including the one that gave him a great speed of FP recovery, the speed at which he recovered his FP was significantly improved, allowing him to recover hundreds of FP in a few seconds.

    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!

    Just like before, five blobs of intangible energy hovered in front of Aurus, transforming into equipment made out of Flux bit by bit, eventually heading towards Aurus¡¯ body a few minutester.

    Ding!

    ¡®Great sess! The equipment set [Devourer of the Living (Epic)] has been created.¡¯

    Seeing the notification that the equipment set had finally finished crafting, he instantly looked at the stats given by an Epic level equipment that suited him. In short, the stats were significantly stronger than one at the Grand level, with even a few unique effects being added due to it being Epic level. Nheless, he still yearned to craft a Mythic level equipment set for himself. He put this equipment set in his inventory, disassembling the Grand level equipment set he made a while ago, reminding himself to give the Epic level set to either an Executive or normal member who would rather be at the sidelines dealing ranged attacks.

    He waited for a bit as he let his FP reach its maximum capacity once more, opening up the equipment fabrication screen as he did the same steps from before. At this point in time, he could not help but think that 15000 FP is enough for him to achieve a grade of Mythic for his equipment set. It was just that he was unlucky in the randomization of grades.

    And so, after a few more minutes, another notification appeared in front of Aurus¡¯ field of vision.

    Ding!

    ¡®Great sess! The equipment set [Devourer of the Living (Epic)] has been created.¡¯

    ¡°Eh? Why is it still at the Epic level? Is my luck really this bad?¡± Aurus could not help but mutter to himself. He calmed himself down for a few seconds, before telling himself that if the third set of equipment was still Epic with the same level of FP invested, the truth of needing more FP to craft better equipment is a fact and he would need to increase the amount of FP he had at hand.

    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!

    Opening up the equipment fabrication one more time, he went through all of the steps once again, as well as investing the same amount of FP before. Just as he received the notification that the equipment set was finished crafting a few minutester, he hoped that it was at least an equipment set of a higher grade. He then looked at the notification screen in front of his field of vision, only to be appalled by the words written.

    ¡®Great sess! The equipment set [Devourer of the Living (Epic)] has been created.¡¯

    Bang!

    At that point in time, it was as if a great explosion urred in his mind from the sheer disbelief he felt that his FP was not enough to craft Mythic level equipment, but was enough to create a clone that was of the Animate existence level. Fortunately, he was able to get over his brief tantrum as he calmed himself down, deciding that it was a waste of time toin at the skill¡¯s effects. He then started to ponder on ways on how to increase the amount of FP he had at the moment.

    Whoosh!

    Not long after trying to think up of a way to increase his FP, he opened up his skill list, looking through the skills he had at the moment that could possibly boost his maximum FP capacity even further. Eventually, he recalled that he bought a skill from the Alliance Market which did just that, activating the skill not long after.

    ¡°[Boundless Spirit Domain]!¡±

    Swish! Swish!

    In an instant, his sensitivity to the energy around him was increased by a few notches, while the amount of FP he could store at the moment was significantly increased as well, his body giving off a slightly intense green glow. He thenmanded the system to check on the amount of FP he currently had, slightly surprised that the amount of FP he had right now was over 20 thousand points. At this moment in time, he had a hunch that he would definitely surpass the Epic grade with this amount of FP.

    And so, that¡¯s what he did. He opened up the equipment fabrication screen yet again, going through the usual routine of adjusting everything, but this time, the amount of FP he invested into the equipment set was at the very least 50% higher than before.

    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!

    As the equipment set solidified and melded with Aurus¡¯ body, another notification appeared in front of Aurus¡¯ field of vision, to which he hastily skimmed, letting out an inward sigh of relief not long after.

    ¡®Super sess! The equipment set [Devourer of the Living (Legendary)] has been created.¡¯

    Finally proving that the amount of FP equated to the rarity of the equipment set, Aurus could not help but be ease as he finally knew how to increase the equipment set¡¯s rarity to the Mythic grade. But then, just as he was about to craft another set of equipment, he could not help but pause for a while before remembering that he was limited to over 20 thousand FP at the moment. He did not have any other skill to increase his FP other than [Boundless Spirit Domain], making him let out a helpless sigh.

    ¡°Well then,¡± Aurusmented inwardly. ¡°I guess I¡¯ll just stick to Legendary equip¡­wait a minute.¡±

    Just as he was about to ept the fact that he could not craft equipment sets that had a rarity higher than Legendary, a memory surfaced in his mind, which detailed a notification he obtained from the system back then. It was at that point that he knew what to do.

    ¡°System!¡± Aurusmanded. ¡°Use one of my chances to max out [Supreme Spirit-Flux Chiliocosm]!¡±

    Indeed, that memory was about the Transcending Comprehension Leaf beingpletely absorbed by him, giving him 9 chances to max out any skill he wanted in an instant. He used up two of them a while ago, reducing his chances to 7. Now that he used it on another skill, it was reduced even further to 6.

    Ding!

    Nheless, Aurus did not have any regrets whatsoever to this choice.

    ¡®[Supreme Spirit-Flux Chiliocosm] has reached the MAX level.¡¯

    ¡®[Supreme Spirit-Flux Chiliocosm] has met the necessary requirements and is ready to evolve.¡¯

    Although the system told him that he could upgrade his sole FP storage skill to the next grade, he did not do so as he had a hunch that the amount of FP he had right now, including the effects of [Boundless Spirit Domain], would now allow him to craft an equipment set of the Mythic grade.

    ¡°System, show me how much FP I can carry!¡± hemanded, with the system¡¯s voice resounding throughout his mind not long after. Listening to the words said by the system, Aurus could not help but radiate an aura of hope around him.

    ¡®At the moment, you can carry a maximum of 34000 Flux Points.¡¯

    ¡°This is definitely more than enough,¡± Aurus said to himself as he calmed himself down. After his mind was back to its usual state, he opened up the equipment fabrication screen once more, going through the normal steps of fabrication, before arriving at the FP investment screen once more.

    Without hesitation, he put in all 34000 FP into the equipment set he was crafting, with five balls of energy appearing not long after which shone a divine light around it. As the five balls gradually formed into equipment, he could not help but feel the aura that each equipment was radiating, being a notch higher than the aura radiated by the Legendary equipment set he made a while ago.

    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!

    Eventually, the equipment set was finished crafting, melding with Aurus¡¯ body as a notification appeared in front of his field of vision.

    ¡°It¡¯s time to see whether I¡¯ve sessfully done it or not,¡± Aurus muttered to himself, trembling inwardly as he gradually focused on the screen that appeared in front of his field of vision. After skimming through the words written on the screen, he could not help but dance in an ecstatic manner like a wooden sculpture should as an aura of intense happiness radiated from his body.

    ¡°Finally! I can finally mass produce it!¡±

    Ding!

    ¡®Ultimate sess! The equipment set [Devourer of the Living (Mythic)] has been created.¡¯

    ¡®Due to the equipment set reaching the Mythic grade, the equipment set has been imbued with the [Protection of the Myths] effect.¡¯

 Chapter 154: Mass Production

    Chapter 154: Mass Production

    ¡°Ah, right. [Protection of the Myths], forgot about that thing.¡± After reading through the notifications he received after sessfully fabricating an equipment set of the Mythic level, he could not help but mutter as a memory surfaced in his mind regarding the notification of the effect.

    In this memory of his, he was ying Infinite Stick Evolution, his character being that of someone at the Animate existence level. He was a decently strong yer, having quite a good set of Epic level equipment, as well as skills that would easily mow down tens to hundreds of Animates that were of a lower ss rank.

    With that get-up, he epted a quest that needed him to y 10,000 goblins in order for him to win the favor of the mayor of the town that he was settled in. It only took him quite a while to get to the location where the goblins were, but even though the quest said that 10,000 goblins were enough to win the favor of the town¡¯s mayor, he knew that by killing higher rarities of monsters, he would be able to win more favor from the mayor, possibly even allowing him to inherit the position of the town¡¯s mayor.

    And so, with that in mind, he decided to kill 10,000 goblin archmages, which he killed by spending quite a bit of effort in each kill, even though he was wearing a full set of Epic equipment. Just as he was about to reach a total of 100 goblin archmages killed, another yer appeared in the area where the goblins spawned, their rank significantly higher than Aurus¡¯ rank. Not only that, from the armor the yer was wearing, Aurus instantly deduced that the yer¡¯s equipment was that of the Mythic level.

    With his interest piqued by the Mythic level equipment, he decided to get closer to the yer while maintaining a set distance between the two, continuing to kill goblin archmages while the yer was doing their own thing. At the instant he finally got close enough to see what the other yer was doing, he could not help but have his eyes widen at the fact that the yer was killing a goblin multiple ranks higher than what he was killing¡­without even being damaged!

    At this point, Aurus could not help but shout, alerting the yer of his presence, which prompted Aurus to apologize and help the yer with his stuff while the yer helped with his stuff after that. After all of that, the yer then told Aurus as to how he was able to tank those hits without being damaged, even though the rank of the goblin he was fighting was multiple levels higher than him.

    In short, the yer told him about the [Protection of the Myths], as well as the skills within the same family. Surprisingly, the yer told Aurus that [Protection of the Myths] was the lowest level of the skill, with 10 more levels after that.

    ¡°System, open up the information regarding the newly crafted equipment set,¡± Aurus let out a sigh after reminiscing through that memory,manding the system not long after.

    Ding!

    ________

    [Devourer of the Living]

    Equipment Type: Ignition

    Rarity: Mythic

    Set Effect: Arcana (Mythic) (+80% Magic Damage)

    Unique Effect: Enchantment (Mythic) (+50% boost to stats when worn)

    ¡ª¡ª¨C

    Parts:

    ¡ª¡ª¨C

    [Vitality¡¯s Void (Weapon)]

    Type: Magic

    > +1420-1930 Attack

    > -60% Cast Time

    > +100% FP Recovery Rate

    > +50% Damage

    > Has five Ignition stages

    ¡ª¡ª¨C

    [Headpiece of the Devourer (Armor)]

    [Chestte of the Devourer (Armor)]

    Type: Physical

    > +1530-2350 Defense

    > -40% Physical Damage Taken

    > +40% HP

    > 30% chance to reflect damage taken

    > Has five Ignition stages

    > Protection of the Myths (Physical) (All damage taken will be absorbed and converted into a shield surrounding the user)

    ¡ª¡ª¨C

    [Leg Armor of the Devourer (Armor)]

    [Boots of the Devourer (Armor)]

    Type: Magic

    > +1270-1550 Magic Defense

    > -40% Magic Damage Taken

    > +30% HP

    > 15% chance to nullify damage taken

    > Has five Ignition stages

    > Protection of the Myths (Magic) (All damage taken will be absorbed and converted into FP for the user)

    ________

    Looking over the stats that he had obtained from crafting a Mythic level equipment, he could not help but radiate a more intense aura of happiness surrounding him as he was incredibly happy that he now had the ability to craft the highest rarity of equipment possible for the current grade of his skill.

    Closing the screen of information that appeared in front of his field of vision, he then went through the n of fabricating a lot of equipment sets for the alliance members once more. This time though, he took into consideration the fact that he was going to evolve the skill sooner orter, which meant that a new grade of equipment would definitely be unlocked. In the end, his decision was set to crafting Mythic level equipment for the Pir level members, and Legendary level equipment for the Executive level and normal members.

    As for Herellia, he decided that, as the leader of the alliance, it wouldn¡¯t be right for her to wear the same equipment as the Pir level members. With that in mind, he was going to craft the same grade of equipment he was going to craft for himself for Herellia after leveling the skill to the next few grades. In other words, he and Herellia would be wearing a whole new level of equipment, Transcendent level equipment!

    Composing his mind whileying his n out at the same time, it took a couple of minutes for Aurus to condition himself before doing what seems to be the monotonous doing he has done in his current life¡­other than the massive grind he did for his skills.

    Ding!

    With the equipment fabrication screen now open, he was now going to begin his n of mass fabricating equipment sets for the alliance members. But just as he was about to truly start doing so, a thought popped in his mind as he said, ¡°Ah, almost forgot.¡±

    ¡°Evolve [Supreme Spirit-Flux Chiliocosm],¡± hemanded the system in his mind, with a prompt appearing not long after, telling him that the skill was sessfully evolved to the next grade. Not only that, he also checked the amount of FP he could hold at the moment, which had a decent increase thanks to the evolution.

    ¡°Alright, with that taken care of, let¡¯s start mass production!¡± he said to himself to psych himself up. Unfortunately, even though he psyched himself up, his mind could not maintain extreme focus on the matter of hand, deciding to go on a tangent for a bit as another thought that was quite important surfaced in his mind.

    ¡°Haaa¡­¡± Aurus could not help but sigh, although he was somewhat grateful on the inside that his mind went off on a tangent before he got too engrossed in the production of equipment sets. ¡°Yeah, it would definitely suck if I crafted more equipment sets than the amount of members we have at the alliance.¡±

    With that in mind, he disappeared from the room without a trace, heading towards where Herellia was. Thankfully, Herellia did not move an inch from when they met a while ago, allowing him to easily find Herellia to ask her about some stuff.

    Then again, it took a while for Herellia to notice Aurus, who was in front of her for quite a while. At the moment she did, she hastilyposed herself as she was slightly shocked by his appearance, imitating the clearing of a throat as she asked him, ¡°Aurus, what are you doing here?¡±

    ¡°I needed your help on something,¡± Aurus replied in a concise manner. ¡°It has something to do with the trump card I¡¯m currently making.¡±

    Hearing the phrase ¡®trump card¡¯ being said, it seemed as though Herellia was greatly woken up, her mind on full alert as she responded with, ¡°If that¡¯s the case, as long as I can do it, I¡¯ll make sure to do it to the best of my abilities. So, what do you need my help with?¡±

    ¡°Err¡­¡± Aurus hemmed and hawed for a bit as he thought up of the best way to go about his request. Eventually, he decided that being straightforward was better, telling her, ¡°I need information on all of the members in this alliance, as well as their strengths and weaknesses.¡±

    ¡°Eh? This is too sudden¡­¡± Herellia responded in a slightly flustered manner¡­only for the aura around her to be slightly murderous as she asked Aurus, ¡°Who are you¡­and what did you do to Aurus?¡±

    ¡°Oi,¡± Aurus replied back. ¡°I¡¯m still me. I¡¯m not someone who would rat the alliance out, you know. Then again, this request does seem suspicious now that I think about it. You can go ahead and use your skill to see if I¡¯m telling the truth or not.¡±

    Seeing that Aurus was being calm with how she acted, she could not help but think if she thought wrongly, deciding to follow Aurus¡¯ words and use her skill that could see through all lies and facades, getting to the truth. After obtaining a notification that he was telling her the truth, as well as the fact that he was not ratting the alliance out, Herellia could not help but let out a sigh as she responded in a slightly apologetic manner, ¡°You understand why I did this, right?¡±

    ¡°I definitely do,¡± he answered back in a slightly happy tone. ¡°I take no offense to it, you¡¯re the leader of the alliance after all.¡±

    Hearing Aurus¡¯ words, Herellia reced the serious aura around her with a slightly cheerful one as she then asked him, ¡°Anyways, why do you need me to obtain that information? You have ess to the alliance system, which allows you to see information regarding each and every member of the alliance.¡±

    ¡°Yeah, that is true,¡± Aurus responded back, then added, ¡°But it would be better if the information came from you. I¡¯m definitely sure you¡¯ve interacted with most of the members of the alliance, which means that your information regarding the members would be more detailed than the one I could get through my own means. If it gives you any assurance, this information has something to do with the thing I¡¯m going to show you in a day or a day and a half from now.¡±

    Fortunately, in the end, Herellia gave Aurus the information regarding all of the members of the alliance, including her, which made Aurus feel intense gratitude for Herellia. He then said that this information would allow him to craft a greater trump card for her, which made her slightly expectant as to what that trump card might be.

    And so, with the information of each and every member now in his mind, he then disappeared from Herellia¡¯s sight, heading back to the room in the Tower of Seclusion where Fenrir and Charisa were, opening up his equipment fabrication skill once again, armed with the number of equipment sets he had to make, as well as the specifications for each equipment set regarding the member that was going to wear it.

    Taking a deep breath through his body, he then muttered as he went over the n one more time, ¡°There are exactly 473 members in this alliance, excluding Herellia. 22 of those members are Pir level members, including me, with 137 being Executive level members, while the remaining 314 members of the alliance are normal members. Including Herellia, I would have to craft two sets of Transcendent level equipment, 23 sets of Mythic level equipment, and 451 sets of Legendary level equipment.¡±

    He then looked at the equipment fabrication screen in front of him before shouting to himself, ¡°It¡¯s time to finish this hell!¡±

 Chapter 155: Marquis of Magical Destruction

    Chapter 155: Marquis of Magical Destruction

    Tempest Cliff, Tempest Branch Alliance, within one of the rooms found in the Tower of Seclusion.

    ¡°Oh god¡­my mind hurts¡­¡± A voice could be heard inside one room,ining about what it was doing for quite a long time already. When one looked at the origin of the voice, one¡¯s vision would be able to see a wooden sculpture vibrant green in color near one corner of the room, the presence of energy being extremely prevalent around it.

    ¡°Note to self¡­don¡¯t do this ever again,¡± the wooden sculpture said to itself, pondering as to why it did this in the first ce. Soon after, it remembered that it was doing it for the sake of the members of the alliance it¡¯s a part of, taking in a few deep breaths before inwardly letting out a sigh of relief. ¡°Then again, I¡¯ve already crafted the amount of equipment sets needed to protect every member in this alliance.¡±

    This wooden sculpture was none other than Aurus, who had taken it upon himself to craft a lot of equipment sets in order for his alliance mates to have a greater chance of surviving in the uing war against Chonk and his army. Due to the fact that he had been crafting equipment sets for quite a long while, he lost track of time after around the 10th equipment set he crafted, his mind seemingly in an automated state.

    Not only that, due to his mind being in an automated state, most of the skill experience he obtained from crafting equipment sets went to waste, only allowing him to evolve [Ancient Modr Flux Equipment Fabrication] to the S-grade Transcendent level instead of a higher level possible with the amount of skill experience he obtained. This was also the same case for [Supreme Spirit-Flux Chiliocosm], only reaching a grade of X-grade Transcendent level. Fortunately, the S-grade Transcendent level was enough for Aurus to be able to craft Transcendent level equipment sets, allowing him to truly fulfill his n.

    Although he regretted the fact that he had wasted a huge amount of skill experience, he was still satisfied with the equipment sets he had created, with each and every equipment having the name ¡®Devourer of the Living¡¯.

    ¡°System, how much time left until the clone is finished?¡± Since he was now finished crafting equipment sets, he now decided to focus on his clone, which was one of his strongest trump cards against Chonk and his army. Not only that, by asking the time remaining for his clone to be formed, he would also know how much time had passed since he started crafting equipment sets monotonously.

    Ding!

    ¡®Time remaining: 02:11:35:21.¡¯ This was what was written on the holographic screen in front of Aurus¡¯ field of vision not long after. Taking only a few moments to calcte the amount of time he took up, using the time that was shown on the screen before and after crafting those equipment sets, he muttered to himself, ¡°So¡­I¡¯ve taken around 12 hours or so to craft all of those equipment sets.¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t know if taking less time to craft a lot of sets is beneficial or detrimental.¡± Thinking about the time he took a bit further, he could not help but drylyugh at himself for quite a bit. ¡°Since I took less time to craft all those sets, I could go ahead and use the remaining time to focus on more of my trump cards or even perhaps craft more equipment sets in order for everyone to be more prepared.¡±

    ¡°On the other hand, since I took less time to craft those sets, the dread of knowing that Chonk and his army woulde at any moment while I¡¯m waiting instead of being alerted fills me with intense nervousness that I just can¡¯t help but think of multiple what ifs.¡±

    After a few seconds of silence after saying those things, heughed yet again, this time over his baseless worries. In the end, he thought that there¡¯s no use worrying over the future¡­unless he was some sort of being great at divination, which he wasn¡¯t.

    ¡°Anyways, time to check on the equipment I¡¯ve made,¡± Aurus said soon after as hemanded the system to open up his weapon inventory, before adding, ¡°I might¡¯ve crafted Epic level equipment instead of Legendary level equipment while I was in the monotonous state. Since I still have a lot of time, I could go ahead and discard those to craft some more Legendary level equipment.¡±

    Whoosh!

    A short momentter, a rift in the space appeared in front of his field of vision, allowing him to view the vast amounts of equipment sets he had crafted after those 12 hours, with each and every one glistening either a gold, rainbow, or a silver light. Not only that, if one looked closely on every individual set, one would notice that one set differed in appearance from another set, which was quite shocking when one knew the fact that Aurus was in his automated state.

    ¡°One¡­two¡­three¡­¡± It took a while for Aurus to count if he had made enough equipment sets for every member in the alliance, taking around three minutes or so to let out a sigh of relief after finding out that he did not make any Epic level equipment, nor did he craft less equipment sets than the specified amount.

    After that, he closed his weapon inventory, pondering over the multiple things he could be doing right now while waiting for Chonk and his army to get closer to the alliance. At one point, he thought about ways to speed up the formation of his clone, since having more time to adapt to the movements of his clone would be beneficial when fighting against the alliance¡¯s enemies.

    But before he could think any further about it, a thought surfaced in his mind all of a sudden, prompting him to put the thought of speeding up his clone¡¯s formation at the back of his mind as he pondered over the thought that surfaced just a while ago.

    ¡®Now that I think about it, why have I only been making equipment that¡¯s focused on fighting against Animates?¡¯ Aurus pondered to himself, the thought in his mind getting gradually bigger. ¡®There are only two Animates in the enemy¡¯s army, while the majority is just Inanimates.¡¯

    ¡®In other words, the majority of the equipment I¡¯ve made should¡¯ve been focused on fighting against Inanimates,¡¯ Aurus got to this conclusion soon after, before another idea reced this. It was around this time that the thought in his mind had burst, bringing him a great amount of inspiration as he muttered, ¡°Why not create equipment that has an ability that is advantageous not only when fighting Inanimates, but fighting Animates as well? Who knows if the members finish fighting against the Inanimates earlier than expected, allowing them to help in dealing damage against the Animates.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s it, I¡¯ve decided,¡± Aurus shouted inwardly, making sure to not alert Fenrir and Charisa, who were still grinding their skills as ofte. ¡°All of the equipment sets for the normal and Executive level members shall be all-around equipment sets, while Pir level members would get two equipment sets, one focused on fighting Animates and one all-around equipment set.¡±

    ¡°Since they¡¯re Pir level members, they would surely have multiple abilities to allow them to receive less damage, giving them more time to swap between sets,¡± Aurus continued to talk to himself, only to end up asking himself a question.

    ¡°How about equipment sets for me and Herellia then? Should I also craft all-around sets for the both of us?¡±

    After asking that question to himself, he pondered over it for a bit, ending up with the conclusion that there was no need for the two of them to have the same kind of equipment set as the other alliance members. The both of them had enough firepower to destroy X-grade Inanimates even without the help of an equipment set like that.

    ¡°Then again, it would be better for the two of us to kill more Inanimates faster so that everyone can focus their firepower on the Animates,¡± Aurus muttered with an aura of determination around him before adding, ¡°Which means we need unique equipment sets that boosts our abilities.¡±

    And so, Aurus opened up his weapon inventory and discarded all of the Legendary level equipment sets he had made without hesitation. Then again, on the back of his mind, he could not help but sigh since the Legendary level equipment sets definitely took up a huge chunk of the 12 hours he used to craft those equipment sets.

    Nheless, he knew that this was for the better, possibly giving them greater chances of fighting against the whole army. Soon after, he opened up the equipment fabrication screen, choosing to make an Ignition type equipment set like usual.

    After that, the system asked him to name the equipment set like usual. This time though, instead of going with ¡®Devourer of the Living¡¯, he was thinking up of a name that would allow the equipment sets to give a boost not only in offense, but in defense as well.

    Fortunately, it only took a few seconds before Aurus came up with a suitable name for the equipment set.

    ¡°I would like this equipment set to be called ¡®Blessed by the Heavens¡¯,¡± Aurus said, to which the system epted soon after. A few secondster, the system showed new information on the holographic screen, allowing Aurus to know the effects of the name he gave. Taking a quick nce over the name¡¯s effects, he was quite satisfied and then finished up the fabrication of the equipment, creating the first Legendary level equipment that bore the name of ¡®Blessed by the Heavens¡¯.

    ¡®The name ¡®Blessed by the Heavens¡¯ has been given. Due to the name of the equipment set, all damage dealt by the user wearing this set shall be increased by 15 percent while all damage received by the user shall be mitigated by 15 percent.¡¯

    After that, he now thought about the name of the equipment sets he would craft for him and Herellia. Just as he was about to continue thinking up of suitable names that would enhance their fighting prowess, a thought entered his mind all of a sudden, a thought that made him pity the person that would obtain the Legendary level equipment set he just made.

    ¡°Ah¡­I haven¡¯t upgraded [Nine Flux Transformation] to the max level yet,¡± Aurus said to himself before letting out a sigh. ¡°How did that only ur in my mind right now and not before I started crafting all of those equipment sets?¡±

    Was he going to discard the Mythic and Transcendent level sets that he made meant for fighting against Animates? Due to the fact that he had belief in their survival ability, he decided that he would not craft it again, deciding to just have the sets he crafted now and onward to have the max level Flux.

    Ding!

    ¡®Nine Flux Transformation has been upgraded to the maximum level.¡¯

    Whoosh!

    After undergoing four upgrades, the Flux that was circting throughout Aurus¡¯ body, which allowed him to look like a green wooden sculpture, now took own a more dark green color, akin to the color of unpolished jade. Nheless, although the color of the Flux became less distracting, the power behind each point of Flux was more plentiful than before.

    ¡°Okay, let¡¯s start thinking of names again.¡± After upgrading his Flux to the max level, he went back to thinking up names for the equipment sets he would be crafting.

    Surprisingly, this time, it only took a few seconds for Aurus to think up of what seemed to be suitable names for him. Opening up the equipment fabrication screen and going through the usual first step, the system asked him the name of the equipment set he was crafting.

    Taking in a deep breath, he then said with confidence, ¡°I would like this equipment set to be called ¡®Overlord of All Things Regarding Blood Across the Myriad Universes¡¯.¡±

    ¡­

    An awkward silence urred after Aurus said that name, with the system not responding for a couple of minutes.

    Ding!

    ¡®The name has been denied.¡¯ When the system did respond to the name, it was that of disapproval, making Aurus feel embarassed that he said that.

    Thankfully, he was able to regain hisposure, pondering as to what the limits of naming equipment sets were. Thinking about it for a bit more, he thought about incorporating royal ranks into the names, adding the rank Duke to the equipment set he was making for Herellia. Surprisingly enough, it was denied yet again, prompting him to tone down the name one more notch.

    Eventually, Aurus found a name that was suitable.

    ¡°I would like to name the equipment set ¡®Marchioness of Blood¡¯,¡± Aurus said¡­expectant to find out if this name was epted or not.

    Ding!

    ¡®The name ¡®Marchioness of Blood¡¯ has been given to the equipment set. Due to the name of the equipment set, all blood-rted abilities shall be enhanced by 20 percent, and the user has a guaranteed chance to lifesteal 20% of the damage dealt by the user.¡¯ Aurus could not help but radiate an intense aura of happiness after finding out that his name had finally been epted, continuing through the subsequent steps until he finally finished the equipment set.

    Whoosh!

    ¡°Now that I know the naming limits, I should go ahead and craft my unique equipment set,¡± Aurus said to himself after obtaining a notification that the ¡®Marchioness of Blood¡¯ equipment set has been sessfully crafted. Opening up the equipment fabrication screen one more time, he chose Ignition for the type of equipment set he wanted to craft before being asked the same question, which was a question regarding the equipment set¡¯s name.

    ¡°Ehem.¡± Aurus cleared his throat before responding.

    ¡°I would like the equipment set to be called ¡®Marquis of Magical Destruction¡¯.¡±

    Ding!

    ¡®The name ¡®Marquis of Magical Destruction¡¯ has been given to the equipment set. Due to the name of the equipment set, all abilities that use up of energy will have their damage be increased by 35 percent. In addition, the amount of energy needed to activate those abilities shall be decreased by 10 percent, while the cooldown time shall be reduced by 20 percent. There is also a 5 percent chance to deal double damage to an enemy hit with the ability.¡¯

    __________

    Yo, Truedawn here.

    I wrote a novel for the WN Spirity Awards entitled ¡®Den of Freedom¡¯. It¡¯s a Sci-fi novel I¡¯ve made that more or less a VRMMORPG novel. I would appreciate it if you checked it out!

 Chapter 156: Awakening

    Chapter 156: Awakening

    Ding!

    ¡®The name ¡®Marquis of Magical Destruction¡¯ has been given to the equipment set. Due to the name of the equipment set, all abilities that use up of energy will have their damage be increased by 35 percent. In addition, the amount of energy needed to activate those abilities shall be decreased by 10 percent, while the cooldown time shall be reduced by 20 percent. There is also a 5 percent chance to deal double damage to an enemy hit with the ability.¡¯

    Looking at the effect he obtained from the name, Aurus could not help but be incredibly satisfied with it. He was incredibly satisfied with it that he could not help but ask himself, ¡°Herellia¡¯s equipment set doesn¡¯t have such a strong effect like that. Would she be mad if she knew the effects of my own set?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll just hide the information of my set from her if that¡¯s the case.¡± In the end, this was what Aurus decided to do. Once he finished crafting the Legendary and Mythic level ¡®Blessed by the Heavens¡¯ set for the normal, Executive, and Pir level members of the alliance, he would go ahead and meet up with Herellia to show her the Transcendent level ¡®Devourer of the Living¡¯ set, as well as her own unique ¡®Marchioness of Blood¡¯ set.

    ¡°I should finish this up,¡± Aurus said to himself, going through the usual stepsid out by the equipment fabrication feature. He did modify the equipment set¡¯s appearance to look like each piece of equipment was made of white stones that gave out intense light. As for Herellia¡¯s set, he did the same as well, making her set look like it was forged from a vat filled to the brim with blood, giving off an intense murderous aura.

    Whoosh!

    ¡®Please input the amount of FP you would like to infuse into this equipment set.¡¯ Soon after, the system asked him how much FP he wanted to put into the equipment set, which dictated the equipment set¡¯s grade. Since he had evolved [Supreme Spirit-Flux Chiliocosm] to its X-grade Transcendent variant, the amount of FP he now had was multiple levels beyond what he previously had, his maximum capacity being a couple hundred thousand points.

    Of course, he knew that once one put more than enough points into the equipment fabrication screen, the system wouldn¡¯t use it to enhance the equipment set even further, but instead discard it to who knows where. Using the amount he infused to obtain a Mythic grade equipment set, he ced in double the amount, which allowed him to sessfully craft a ¡®Marquis of Magical Destruction¡¯ set at the Transcendent level.

    Ding!

    ¡®Divine sess! The equipment set [Marquis of Magical Destruction (Transcendent)] has been created.¡¯

    ¡®Due to the equipment set reaching the Transcendent grade, the equipment set has been imbued with the [Protection of the Transcendent Beings] effect.¡¯

    After crafting his own unique set, he ced it inside his weapon inventory, preparing himself for the monotonous process of crafting multiple equipment sets yet again. But then, just as he was about to start producing ¡®Blessed by the Heavens¡¯ sets¡­

    Rumble¡­rumble¡­

    A rumbling sound started to resound throughout the room, with Aurus not knowing where it came from. He went closer to Fenrir and Charisa, asking them if they heard any rumbling sounds. Surprisingly, they responded that they didn¡¯t hear any, returning back to grinding their skills while Aurus was left contemting as to where the sound came from.

    Ding!

    Amidst the rumbling sounds, a notification screen appeared in front of his field of vision, prompting him to open up the weapon inventory at the very instant he finished reading.

    ¡®Something unique is happening to two Transcendent level sets in your weapon inventory!¡¯

    Whoosh!

    At the instant he opened his weapon inventory, the two Transcendent level sets he crafted for Herellia and himself, namely ¡®Marchioness of Blood¡¯ and ¡®Marquis of Magical Destruction¡¯, were currently floating in the air, their auras spreading all throughout the vast space that constituted the weapon inventory.

    A few secondster, the auras they emanated condensed into strands of energy, which then headed towards the opposing equipment set. The ¡®Marchioness of Blood¡¯ set¡¯s red energy strands headed towards the ¡®Marquis of Magical Destruction¡¯ set, while the opposite also happened.

    Eventually, a bnce seemed to be struck, with both sets radiating a mix of red and white aura as they graduallynded on the ground of the weapon inventory¡¯s space.

    Whoosh!

    Ding!

    After that phenomenon, the weapon inventory automatically closed itself as a notification screen appeared in front of Aurus¡¯ field of vision once more. Although he was quite perplexed as to why that happened, he decided to ce the thought of finding out why in the back of his head, wondering about the notification he obtained instead.

    ¡°Eh¡­?¡± This was the first word that came out of Aurus after reading the notification. ¡°Are you serious?¡±

    ¡®Due to ¡®Marchioness of Blood¡¯ and ¡®Marquis of Magical Destruction¡¯ having names rted to nobility, the passive effect [Royal Resonance] has been bestowed to both equipment sets.¡¯

    Aurus was at a loss for words from this urrence. He only gave those names due to the fact that they sounded powerful, but never did he expect that giving such a name to those equipment sets would actually trigger something like a new effect being given.

    Of course, his interest was piqued by the new effect. Since it came from the name he gave, surely, the buffs given by such an effect wouldn¡¯t be low, right?

    Ding!

    Commanding the system to identify the effect, a screen appeared in front of his field of vision soon after. It only took a single quick skim over the information on the screen to know that this unexpected urrence actually gave him something good.

    ________

    [Royal Resonance]

    Effect: Whenever two users of equipment with this effecte into close proximity with one another, both users obtain a 30% increase to all of their stats, as well as a 20% increase to the damage dealt by them. They also gain ess to the [Noble Domain] skill, which reduces all enemies¡¯ movement speeds by 50% for a certain amount of time.

    ________

    ¡°¡­¡± Aurus was at a loss for words yet again. Although he fully understood the buffs of the new effect he obtained, he still couldn¡¯t bring it to himself to speak about it. In the end, he just let out a sigh before muttering, ¡°I should¡­make those equipment sets.¡±

    ¡­

    Around eight hours have passed since Aurus decided to start producing new equipment sets used by most of the members in the Tempest Branch Alliance. Of course, he opened up his weapon inventory to make sure if he made fewer sets than specified, or an equipment set of lower quality. Fortunately, just like before, he did not do so, allowing him to finally let out a sigh of relief as he was truly done with crafting equipment sets for the whole alliance.

    ¡°I can finally go to Herellia and show her the equipment set I¡¯ve made,¡± Aurus muttered to himself, d to finally be free of this burden¡­although he volunteered to do so. Informing Fenrir and Charisa that he was going to go to where Herellia was, he then disappeared from the room, taking a few more teleports to appear in the ce where both Herellia and him have met before.

    Whoosh!

    This time though, when Aurus appeared in front of Herellia, instead of seeing Herellia immersed in her grinding, he noticed that Herellia was not grinding at all. Instead, Herellia was looking at him with a slightly expectant aura surrounding her as she said, ¡°I wonder why you came here all of a sudden. Is it good news?¡±

    ¡°Eh¡­¡± Aurus replied with a sound that bordered between approval and disapproval. Soon after, Aurus made the sound of clearing one¡¯s throat before replying, ¡°Yeah, I guess you could say so.¡±

    Whoosh!

    Not long after, a rift in the space appeared on top of Aurus¡¯ body, slightly surprising Herellia. Of course, Aurus knew that her surprise would grow to a greater level as he used his FP to form a tendril that attached on an equipment set he made. It took a while for the equipment set to get out of the weapon inventory, with Aurus cing it between him and Herellia.

    ¡°This is what I wanted to show you before we fought against Chonk and his army, though I showed you earlier than what I said,¡± Aurus said, noticing that Herellia¡¯s attention was affixed to the equipment set he brought out. ¡°This is a trump card we could use throughout the war, since it¡¯s an equipment set that¡¯s meant to boost our defensive and offensive properties. The name of the equipment set is ¡®Devourer of the Living¡¯, which enhances our ability to deal damage to Animates like Chonk and Chungus.¡±

    Although Aurus was finished exining what the equipment set was, Herellia¡¯s focus was still stuck on the equipment set, prompting Aurus to make arge sound that brought her back from her daze. Fortunately, Aurus did not need to repeat himself since Herellia processed all of what he said subconsciously. She looked at Aurus with an aura of slight curiosity surrounding her, asking, ¡°Have you only crafted this single equipment set for me since I¡¯m the leader? Or did you also craft one for yourself?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ve crafted one for me and for you, yes,¡± Aurus replied, before adding, ¡°But I¡¯ve also crafted equipment sets for every member in the Alliance to enhance our survival rate. We would have a greater chance of winning against Chonk if more of us survives to deal damage, right?¡±

    At this point, an aura of admiration emanated from Herellia¡¯s body, wondering how much Aurus had to sacrifice in order to create that much equipment sets. It was also at this point that Herellia realized why Aurus asked for information about the members of the alliance. With that, she thanked Aurus inwardly as she asked him, ¡°How do I wear this thing?¡±

    ¡°Uhh¡­¡± Aurus was at a loss for words as he had not taken that into consideration before, thinking that wearing it was automatic. He then asked the system in his mind about this, taking only a few seconds before replying, ¡°Just hover it and say ¡®Wear Equipment Set¡¯.¡±

    ¡°Got it,¡± Herellia responded to Aurus¡¯ words, getting close to the equipment set Aurus brought out. Then, she hovered it for a while before saying, ¡°You know what? It¡¯ll be better for me to wear itter. I¡¯m guessing you¡¯re going to distribute this equipment set to everyone elseter, right?¡±

    ¡°Yeah, that¡¯s what I¡¯m nning to do,¡± Aurus radiated an aura of affirmation around him, agreeing with Herellia¡¯s words. ¡°Could you ask everyone to congregate towards the Main Hall in an hour? I still have something to do in the Main Hall anyways.¡±

    ¡°Sure, I can do that,¡± Herellia replied with an aura of slight enthusiasm around her. ¡°Do you need anything else I can help with?¡±

    ¡°No, that¡¯s all,¡± Aurus replied back. ¡°You also have toe to the Main Hall as well since you¡¯re the leader. I have a feeling why you saved wearing the equipment set forter is to let everyone see how to wear the equipment set, right?¡±

    ¡°Precisely,¡± Herellia answered with an aura of cheerfulness about her.

    ¡°Got it,¡± Aurus said soon after. Then, he radiated an aura of excitement as he said, ¡°After the meeting in the Main Hall, I have another equipment set to give you. I¡¯ll keep it a secret for now. I hope you¡¯re prepared to receive it.¡±

    Whoosh!

    And with that, without even saying farewell, Aurus disappeared out of Herellia¡¯s sight, leaving Herellia with no words to say. It was only after a few seconds did she finally say something.

    ¡°Haah¡­now you¡¯re just making me nervous.¡±

    ¡­

    Whoosh!

    It only took a couple of minutes for Aurus to appear in the center of the Main Hall near the front of the Tempest Branch Alliance, since he had ess to an ability that allowed him to teleport, albeit in a limited range. Nheless, Aurus had no qualms about it since being able to teleport is better than not being able to.

    Anyways, after arriving in the Main Hall, Aurus focused his sense of vision towards the ceiling of the Main Hall, the sight of a green blob of energy entering his field of vision. This blob of energy was none other than the Animate clone Aurus made as a trump card for the uing war¡­though the main reason for it was the fact that he wanted to revisit the feeling of looking over the world.

    A few days have passed since the clone started forming, with the size of blob bing considerably smaller while a figure could now be faintly seen through the green energy surrounding it. Aurus looked at this blob of energy for a bit as a thought he had from before resurfaced in his mind, prompting him to ask the system, ¡°System, how much time left till the clone is fully formed?¡±

    Ding!

    ¡®Time remaining: 02:02:47:10.¡¯

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡± Looking at the time given to him by the system, he then asked, ¡°System, is there any way to speed up the formation process of the clone?¡±

    ¡°¡­¡± At first, there was no response from the system, making Aurus feel that there was no way for him to speed up the formation of the clone. But then, around half a minuteter, he heard a ding resonate throughout his mind as a holographic screen appeared in front of his field of vision.

    ¡°To speed up the process of formation, the user must infuse a huge amount of FP into the blob of energy.¡± This was what was written on the screen.

    ¡°How much FP would I need to speed it up? Also, how much time would be reduced with the amount?¡± he asked not long after reading through the response.

    ¡°10,000 FP for a one hour reduction in formation time.¡± The words written on the screen changed, which slightly surprised Aurus.

    ¡°Eh? 10,000 FP for an hour?¡± Aurus could not believe the conversion rate. Well¡­it was not that he couldn¡¯t believe that he needed to use a lot of FP to reduce the amount of time, but that he needed to use a lot less FP to reduce the amount of time. In actuality, he was prepared to see a rate of 100,000 FP for a 10 minute reduction, and he would have noints since he would just have to wait for his FP storage to fill up.

    ¡°If that¡¯s the case¡­¡± In the end, Aurus would rather ept the former than thetter after being informed of the former, knowing that he would need to wait for less time instead of a time that could possibly span until the start of the war.

    With an excited aura surrounding him, Aurus then summoned all of the FP in his body before saying, ¡°It¡¯s time to awaken this clone of mine.¡±

 Chapter 157: I Am You, You Are Me

    Chapter 157: I Am You, You Are Me

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    Thanks to Aurus crafting a huge amount of equipment sets in order for his alliance members to survive more hits in the uing war, the amount of skill experience he obtained from that monotonous crafting spree was plentiful. Although the only skills that obtained this skill experience was his equipment fabrication skill and his sole FP storage skill, the fact that he could now hold hundreds of thousands of FP at once instead of holding only tens of thousands gave Aurus an edge when it came to current matter at hand.

    Due to the sheer amount of FP that he had in his FP storage, when Aurus summoned out all of it, the amount of intangible energy strands surrounding his body transformed his appearance into something that looked a fluffy ball made out of multiple hairs, radiating an intense aura of energy that could be sensed quite a distance away from the main hall of the alliance.

    Knowing that this intense aura of energy would possibly allow Chonk and his army to find out the general direction of the alliance, he hurriedly connected the strands he made towards the green blob of energy that was affixed to the ceiling of the main hall.

    Swoosh! Swoosh!

    With every point of FP that was being infused into the green blob of energy, the faint sound of wind would start to resound throughout the main hall, which might have something to do with the elemental inclination of Aurus¡¯ Flux. Of course, due to the fact that an hour¡¯s worth of time reduction was equivalent to 10,000 points of Aurus¡¯ FP, it was inevitable that the numerous strands he made would be siphoned by the green blob in a matter of an instant.

    Slurp!

    ¡°Eh?¡± Greeted with the sight of all of his strands visibly getting thinner and thinner as they connected to the green blob, Aurus realized that he had underestimated the speed at which the green blob of energy would absorb the energy he sent out.

    Ding!

    Nheless, due to the amount of energy he had infused into the green blob, it was certain that a huge amount of time would be shaved off from the countdown timer.

    ¡®You have sessfully infused 230,000 FP into the clone, reducing the time needed for the clone to fully form by 23 hours. Time remaining: 01:03:45:27.¡¯

    Looking at the holographic screen that appeared in front of his field of vision after infusing all of his FP into the green blob, Aurus could not help but feel satisfied at the amount of time that was shaved off. He then looked at the green blob that was affixed to the ceiling of the main hall, noticing that the size of green blob had grown considerably smaller, while the silhouette of his clone¡¯s body was bing more and more obvious. If one looked closely, one could even see the modified drill of Aurus¡¯ clone.

    After that, a thought popped up in his mind as he asked himself, ¡°Hmm¡­should I waste one of my chances to max out a skill to increase the amount of FP I can hold at maximum? With that, that would allow me to fully form this clone at the next instance my FP storage regenerates to its full capacity¡­¡±

    In the end, he decided that it was not worth it, thinking that it was better for him to just use the six remaining chances on skills that would enhance his damage output or survivability rate instead of his maximum FP capacity. At this point, he had more than enough FP tost the whole war. Add in his incredible FP regeneration rate thanks to the fusion of the skills, it¡¯s not far-fetched for someone to call Aurus an undying magic turret.

    And so, relying on the incredible FP regeneration rate of his FP storage skill, it took around 15 minutes of waiting time for Aurus to turn all of his FP into threads one more time, sending it towards the green blob of energy on the ceiling of the main hall.

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    And just like before, the green blob of energy ravenously devoured each and every strand of energy that Aurus sent towards its way, with the green blob surrounding Aurus¡¯ clone gradually getting smaller and smaller with every strand absorbed. To be honest, after absorbing all of the strands Aurus sent out this time around, the green blob that covered the body of Aurus¡¯ clone was so thin that it now looked like a protectiveyer covering Aurus¡¯ clone¡¯s body from the elements.

    Ding!

    ¡®You have sessfully infused 250,000 FP into the clone, reducing the time needed for the clone to fully form by 25 hours. Time remaining: 00:01:29:32.¡¯

    ¡°Only an hour and a half remains before I can finally use the clone.¡± At this point in time, after finding out that an incredibly small amount of time remained before he could finally pilot the clone, Aurus could not help but radiate an intense aura of excitement and expectation, wondering how strong his clone would be.

    Of course, after a few more minutes of waiting, Aurus had finally amassed enough FP for him to reduce the time remaining to nil, sending out the quaint amount of threads he had formed, whenpared to the amount from before, towards the now human-shaped green blob affixed to the ceiling of the main hall.

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    Since only a small amount of FP was needed to finally allow the clone to fully form, it only took a small amount of time for the green blob to absorb the amount of FP that was sent out by Aurus.

    Ding!

    Obtaining another notification from the system, Aurus hastily opened up the notification screen and looked at thest few lines of text he obtained from the system.

    ¡®You have sessfully infused 20,000 FP into the clone, reducing the time needed for the clone to fully form by 2 hours. Due to the amount of time being reduced exceeding the amount of time remaining, the system has decided to repay the extra amount of FP used to reduce time. Time remaining: 00:00:00:00.¡¯

    ¡®Your clone has now fully formed.¡¯

    At this point in time, the aura surrounding him was incredibly intense, its feeling akin to a tsunami of excitement and expectation. He hastily closed the notification screen that he opened, looking up at the ceiling where his clone was forming. Right now though, the green blob surrounding his clone??s body was visibly thinning to where the front side of his body was clearly seen. Of course, with nothing blocking the front, the massive drill on his clone¡¯s body flopped about, making him slightly fear the future of this clone of his.

    ¡°If this clone of mine falls like that¡­¡± It was at that moment that the green blob on the back side of the clone¡¯s body had now disappeared, detaching the clone from the ceiling of the main hall, allowing it to fall in a ragdoll-like state.

    Swoosh! Swoosh!

    Hearing the sounds of wind resounding throughout Aurus¡¯ mind, Aurus could not help but think that his clone¡¯s senses was connected to his, making him fear the what if he had envisioned in mind even more.

    ¡°Even though I¡¯m an Inanimate, I know very well that hitting the ground dick first is definitely going to hurt!¡± Aurus screamed out in his mind, hastily summoning all of the FP in his body to turn into threads as he teleported himself under the ce where his clone was falling.

    With every point of FP he regenerated as the clone was falling, he transformed it into threads, to which he intertwined into what seemed to be a woven mat made out of threads of FP. Although he had no clue as to whether the strands would reduce the impact of his clone¡¯s fall, it was still better than just letting his clone fall to the ground, allowing every part on the front side of its body to collide with the ground.

    Just as the clone was about half a meter away from the woven mat made out of FP, a sudden thought appeared in Aurus¡¯ mind, instantly modifying the woven mat he was holding up to have a hole near the genital area of his clone.

    Fwoosh!

    Not long after, the clone had finallynded on the woven mat made out of FP, with its massive drill passing through the hole on the woven mat. Not only that, one could even see that the family jewels of the clone¡¯s body had passed through the hole on the woven mat as well. Seeing this, Aurus could not help but let out a sigh of relief as he said, ¡°Safe.¡±

    With the clone now fully formed, he then manipted the threads he went controlling in a way that flipped the clone over, allowing it toy down on the ground on its back. At the very instant the clone¡¯s back touched the ground, Aurus could not help but feel a biting cold on his back, even though he was a wooden sculpture.

    Adding in the incident where he heard the sound of the wind even though he was not falling, Aurus was now certain that his senses were connected to the clone. If the clone felt pain, he would feel pain as well. If the clone felt pleasure, he would feel pleasure as well. With that thought in mind, he wondered how it would feel for an Inanimate to be in the epitome in the pleasure.

    Ding!

    Of course, the system barred him from deluding himself any further, bombarding him with a lot of notifications, with almost every notification he had obtained being rted to the clone one way or another.

    ¡®Due to the user obtaining a clone, the user has obtained the active skill [Sense Sharing].¡¯

    ¡®Due to the user obtaining a clone, the user has obtained the active skill [Automated Clone Control].¡¯

    ¡®Due to the user obtaining a clone, the user has obtained the active skill [Clone Possession].¡¯

    ¡®Due to the user obtaining a clone, the user has obtained the active skill [Clone Hibernation].¡¯

    ¡®Due to the user obtaining a clone, the user has obtained the passive skill [Mental Communication].¡¯

    ¡®Due to the special qualities of the clone, the user and the clone has obtained the passive skill [Spirit Resonance].¡¯

    ¡®The system rmends the user to focus all of its efforts in nurturing the clone to its highest level, allowing the user to possibly craft another clone.¡¯

    ¡°Eh? I can craft another clone?¡± Most of the notifications he had obtained were rted to skills that would allow him to control the clone. So, the fact that he had obtained such a notification slightly surprised him. He thought that this would be the only clone he could craft, but it seemed that he could still craft one more clone?

    ¡°I wonder why?¡± Aurus could not help but ask himself, opening up his skill list to look at the [Spirit Clone] skill he obtained from Kevin. Not long after, he finally understood as to why.

    ¡°It seems that there are two levels to the [Spirit Clone] skill. The first level would allow me to craft one clone, and then the second level would allow me to craft two?¡± This was the conclusion he got to, but he had doubts as to whether this was true or not. Only time would tell if his conclusion was correct.

    Anyways, with the feeling of touching something cold still radiating out through his back, Aurus got closer to the clone he had made and activated two of the four active skills he had obtained from the system.

    ¡°[Sense Sharing].¡±

    ¡°[Clone Possession].¡±

    Whoosh!

    Not long after, as if it was done by a great entity, Aurus¡¯ soul was split in half, turning into a soul vessel that entered his clone. Although it looked like it would hurt, in actuality, it did not hurt at all, but instead felt weird. As to why, it was because he could vividly sense the insides of both his wooden sculpture self as well as his clone.

    Whoosh!

    A few seconds after that, in Aurus¡¯ field of vision as a wooden sculpture, the right side of it had been reced with a pitch ck view, which gradually gained light as the view of the main hall from another perspective entered Aurus¡¯ field of vision.

    At this point in time, Aurus willed the other part of his vision to look at his wooden sculpture self, to which he was sessful in doing so. In response, Aurus looked at his clone, which was sitting upright on the left side of his field of vision. The two of them looked at each other, knowing very well that the other being in front of them was them as well.

    ¡°I am you,¡± Aurus said to the clone.

    ¡°And you are me,¡± the clone said back to Aurus. The clone spoke in Aurus¡¯ voice from the previous life.

    ¡°I¡¯m going to have the remaining half of my soul stay with you,¡± Aurus said not long after. ¡°Is that fine with you?¡±

    ¡°You¡¯ve given birth to me, so that¡¯s fine, Aurus,¡± the clone replied back.

    ¡°Anyways, what is my name?¡± Soon after, the clone asked Aurus. ¡°It would be weird if you just called me clone.¡±

    ¡°Fair point,¡± Aurus replied. He pondered for a bit before giving out a name.

    ¡°How about Argentum?¡± Aurus responded.

    ¡°Argentum?¡± The clone closed his eyes for a bit, before nodding in response. ¡°Yeah, Argentum is good. I¡¯ll be known as Argentum then.¡±

    ¡°d to have you help me out, Argentum,¡± Aurus said.

    ¡°I am you anyway, it¡¯s a given that I¡¯d help,¡± Argentumughed as he replied.

    Of course, in actuality, Aurus was just talking to himself.

 Chapter 158: Primitive Technology

    Chapter 158: Primitive Technology

    A few minutes had already passed since Aurus¡¯ clone, Argentum was fully formed. At this point in time, the two of them had their senses of vision closed, attuning to each other¡¯s various senses in order for each other to get a better grasp of the limits of the other. Of course, in actuality, this was just Aurus trying to get a grasp of the limits of the clone before the war happens. Although he had split off half of his soul to his clone, which allowed him to perceive the world through his clone¡¯s senses at any time, that did not mean that the clone had a mind of its own¡­though he could make that happen.

    ¡°Hmm¡­I wonder how high this clone¡¯s stats are,¡± Aurus muttered to himself, knowing very well that he had allocated a lot of FP in the creation of the clone in front of him. Using the [Species Analysis] skill he had on his original body, he was able to take a nce at the stats and skills Argentum, which somewhat surprised him.

    ¡°All of the skills he has are more or rted to me, as well as the element I¡¯m inclined towards,¡± Aurus could not help but mutter while being surprised as to how strong his clone was at the first level.

    Ding!

    ________

    Argentum (Level 1/10)

    Experience: 0/100

    Species: Nature¡¯s Blessed Child

    Existence Level: Animate

    Grade: Rank 0

    ss: None

    Tempering Skill: None

    ¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª

    [HP]: 25/25

    [MP]: 10/10

    ¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª

    Stats:

    Vitality ¨C 13

    Strength ¨C 12

    Agility ¨C 13

    Intelligence ¨C 11

    Defense ¨C 11

    ¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª

    Skills:

    [Nature¡¯s Blessing], [Spirit Resonance], [Wind Affinity], [Innate Tempered Body], [Natural Mana Affinity]

    ________

    Although the stats his clone had was pitifully low whenpared to the stats his original body has, in actuality, the stats of his original body was the one that was pitifully low whenpared to the clone.

    ¡°If I were to evolve as an Animate through this original body of mine, I¡¯m definitely sure I could achieve twice as much as stats as this clone in front of me,¡± Aurus muttered to himself as he recalled a memory from his previous life. ¡°Nheless, these stats are still great whenpared to the other yers who evolve into Animates, only having about 5 to 7 points in each stat.¡±

    ¡°With each point as an Animate being equivalent to 100,000 points in Inanimate stats, it¡¯s a given that even a thousand Inanimates at the X-grade wouldn¡¯t be able to critically damage a Rank 0 Animate in one shot.¡± Aurus let out a sigh, reminiscing of the past where he would trample on tons of Inanimates and Pseudo-Inanimates with his stats alone.

    ¡°Ah, I just remembered,¡± Aurus said not long after, a memory from a while ago popping up into his mind. It was a memory wherein he was testing the amount of damage his skills dealt, where the damage counter would show points equivalent to thousands of HP as an Inanimate. ¡°Although I don¡¯t know how the alliance obtained it, that was actually a damage counter meant for Pseudo-Inanimates. Now that I think about it, the same went for their stats as well. The only reason why Pseudo-Inanimates are like the Animates¡¯ limbs is because of their power tribtions.¡±

    ¡°But I don¡¯t have any ns of making a Pseudo-Inanimate yet,¡± Aurus continued to talk to himself, before looking at the decentlyrge drill his clone had. Whenever he looked at it, he could not help but feel a bit happy. It was then that he realized something.

    While he was looking at his clone¡¯srge member, an aura of embarassment radiated from original body, muttering to himself, ¡°Wait a second¡­aren¡¯t I naked right now?¡±

    At that instant, Argentum¡¯s eyes opened, standing up without hesitation as he looked at his original body, saying, ¡°If I were to be discovered by a person, especially if they were female, where would my dignity go?¡±

    Although he was in a ce filled to the brim with Inanimates, he still could not help but think about the possibility that an Animate might cross through the Tempest Cliff and possibly discover him. Looking out through the entrance of the main hall, it was then and there that Aurus¡­well, Argentum decided that he was going to have to make some clothing for himself.

    Of course, Argentum was still Aurus, but he decided to give him a name for less confusion. Not only that, he also gave him a name for the reason that when the war came, Argentum could not be connected to Aurus at all. Although it was Aurus¡¯ trump card, he wanted to tell the other members in his alliance that he had just forged a friendship with Argentum.

    And so, with Aurus controlling both bodies, he willed his original body to head towards the Tower of Seclusion and wait for the time when everyone in the alliance congregated in the alliance hall. Soon after that, he disabled the [Sense Sharing] skill, allowing Argentum to look at everything around him from his own field of vision. After that, he started to slowly walk out of the entrance hall, making sure that his hands covered every inch of his drill.

    At first, Argentum wasn¡¯t used to manipting the body since he had been a stick for most of his current life. But of course, after a few minutes or so, relying on the memory he had as a human back in his previous life, he was able to control the body like a human would, running in a slightly leisurely pace with both hands covering his drill. In his mind, the first thing he was going to do was to obtain arge enough leaf as well as some item that could be turned into rope to create clothing that would cover his private parts.

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    Then again, since Argentum was not an athletic person in his previous life, the feeling of power coursing throughout all of his body could not help but make him feel quite content with his current life. Of course, that did not mean that he was giving up on his dreams of bing a God, even if that meant that he was going to be a God with two bodies. He was going to make sure that he would reach the pinnacle of power.

    ¡­

    Eventually, a few minutes after leaving the alliance¡¯s main hall, Argentum had made his way towards a nearby tree. Not only did he stop by this tree in order for him to catch his breath, but he also stopped by this tree due to the fact that its leaves wererge and flexible. Since the tree was a few meters in height, plus the fact that he did not have enough strength to jump such a height, he decided to climb up the tree¡¯s trunk.

    Since he was in the Tempest Cliff, a ce known for its harsh winds, it was inevitable that a strong breeze would touch his body, making him shiver as he gradually climbed up the tree¡¯s trunk. Nheless, while climbing up the trunk, he could not help but notice that the amount of cold he felt from the breezes flowing through his body was less than what a normal person could perceive. To be honest, what he felt was more of a loving embrace from their mother as the wind caressed his body.

    It was then that the [Wind Affinity] skill his body had came to mind, muttering to himself, ¡°Hmm¡­should I base my ss around this skill? It¡¯s not a bad choice though.¡±

    And so, with a bit of elbow grease and a bit of time, Argentum was able to reach the top of the tree, plucking off two leaves from the tree before jumping off of it and using one of the leaves as a parachute on the way down.

    Step. Step.

    After that, he removed the midrib off of one of the leaves he plucked off, splitting it into two flexible sheets. He then looked around the area he was in and muttered to himself, ¡°I wonder if there¡¯s anything I could use as rope to hold the two halves around my waist.¡±

    With him now holding a flexible sheet of leaf around his waist, Argentum traversed the Tempest Cliff in search of a natural rope to hold the flexible sheets up. Of course, he knew that he couldn¡¯t go that far since he could be discovered by Chonk and his army.

    Fortunately, it didn¡¯t take him that long to find an item that he could use as rope, discovering a few long vines that were hanging down from the branch of a tree. He tugged on it with a bit of force, and noticed that it did not break at the first tug, which made him more happy than irritated since a sturdier type of rope meant that would itst longer.

    Climbing up a tree¡¯s trunk again, he yanked the vines off of the branch, before jumping down and entwining them to make the vines into a sturdy rope. He then looked for a sharp and pointy stone around the vicinity and used it to poke two holes on each end of the two flexible sheets.

    He then tied the rope made out of vines around the holes as he affixed the two flexible sheets around his waist. Eventually, he had sessfully affixed the two flexible sheets around his waist with the vine rope, with one sheet covering his back and the other covering his back.

    At this point in time, he could not help but be proud of what he done, though it took him quite around 30 minutes of time, reducing the amount of time left he could use the clone before he would need to be at the alliance¡¯s main hall.

    ¡°Hmm¡­what should I do next?¡± Knowing the deadline at hand, he thought about the thing he could do next to make Argentum look more human than a subservient clone that did not need to eat or sleep.

    Whoosh!

    It was then that a strong breeze blew over his body again, making him shiver yet again. At this point in time, a thought suddenly appeared in his mind as a smile appeared on his face. With that thought in mind, he started to dash towards a random direction, making sure to stay as close to the alliance base as possible.

    ¡°Since I¡¯m feeling cold, I should make a fire!¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ve watched a ton of videos where people used technology from the past. It wouldn¡¯t be that hard to emte them, right?¡±

 Chapter 159: No Other Choice

    Chapter 159: No Other Choice

    While Argentum had the thought of making a fire since he was feeling very cold in the Tempest Cliff, another fire was lit up in the eyes of a certain goddess in the Celestial ne, her mood slightly soured due to the image that was shown on the orb in front of her.

    ¡°Although I know it was inevitable, I just can¡¯t help but be angry while looking at it,¡± Kurohana muttered as she looked at the orb, the image of Aurus and his Animate clone interacting with one another quite clearly. Not long after, the image on the orb changed to that where Aurus¡¯ clone was moving by itself, doing things that would normally be done by an Animate in an earlier age.

    Looking at the image for a bit more, in the end, Kurohana could not help but let out a sigh, resting her head on her right arm, which was resting on the armrest of the chair she was sitting on, with a slightly despondent gaze. After being silent for quite a bit, she then said softly, ¡°If he didn¡¯t make a clone, the power of the weapon he¡¯ll be a part of would definitely double, or even triple due to the sheer power of his soul at the moment.¡±

    ¡°Nheless, due to the meddling of some entities in my world that seem to have noticed my actions, that is now not the case,¡± she added as the image of an old man appeared in her mind. A few secondster, she adjusted how she seated, sitting up straight as she shrugged her shoulders, muttering, ¡°It¡¯s not like I could destroy Aurus¡¯ clone, that would also destroy the other half of his soul in the process. Plus if I was desparate enough to do so, I couldn¡¯t even do it since thew I control doesn¡¯t even have that killing aspect to it.¡±

    After that, she closed her eyes for a bit, before looking at the orb one more time. At this point in time, the sight on the orb was that of Aurus¡¯ clone wielding all of its strength to break of a few branches from a decently sized tree. Looking at the sight for a bit, her mood underwent a slight change as she changed her perspective on how she would handle Aurus¡¯ clone.

    ¡°Hmm¡­although that does weaken the power of the weapon, if Aurus nurtures his clone properly, it would be able to be a god as well, which has a far strongerbat power whenpared to a god level weapon. And if that clone wields the weapon version of itself, I wonder what level of power would the clone achieve.¡±

    ¡°For now, I just hope my maniptions work out in the end,¡± Kurohana muttered before continuing to look at the orb with indifference.

    ¡­

    While Kurohana was watching what was happening in Erudinia through the orb¡­

    Crack! Crack!

    Slightly loud cracking sounds could be hearding from a certain area of the Tempest Cliff. If one looked at where the sound came from, they would be able to see a decent looking man, with leaves covering his private parts, using all of his strength to break off a few small branches from a tree.

    This man was none other than Argentum, who was just Aurus, but in another body. At the moment, his face was slightly flushed red due to the amount of force he exerted when trying to bend the branches off the trees he had his eyes on, only being able to obtain around five or so branches from a few trees so far.

    ¡°Nghh¡­¡± Argentum grunted as he ced one of his feet on the tree¡¯s trunk to act as a lever point while bending the branch. Not long after, all of the muscles in both of his arms bulged as he yanked the branch downward with all of the strength he had, gasping for breath soon after as the bent branch seemingly reverted back to its previous state.

    Thud!

    Landing on the ground back first, Argentum could not help but look at the sky as heined, ¡°Oh god, why do these branches have to be so sturdy? Is it because of the harsh winds that¡¯s blowing in this Tempest Cliff?¡± After that, he let out hisints for a bit more before standing up to pick up the scant amount of branches he had broken off due to sheer luck.

    Then, he ran towards an area that was near the base of the Tempest Branch Alliance, having a hunch that the time when all of the alliance members would congregate at the alliance hall was getting closer. In actuality, it was much closer than he thought, due to the long amount of time he spent trying to break off branches from trees to make a fire.

    ¡°Although I took quite a while to break off branches, I can finally make a fire,¡± Argentum said in glee as he sat down on the ground and grabbed two pieces of rock, smashing it against one another to sharpen one of the two rocks. While doing so, he could not help but mutter, ¡°If I could remember correctly, using a sharpened rock, I should make a notch in one of the branches wherein another branch would enter. Then, I would have to rotate the branch at great speeds to make embers, which I could put onto some dried leaves to gradually make a fire.¡±

    After bing satisfied with the sharpness of the rocks, he then started to make a notch on one of the branches he broke off, only for it to fail as the pointy end of the rock broke aftering into contact with the branch rather than the opposite. At this point in time, Argentum could not help but grab onto his hair and start to pull on it in anger as he threw the rock and branch he was holding onto the ground.

    ¡°Normally, a rock would be able to make a nick on a branch, right?¡± Argentum started thinking out loud as if he was losing his mind. ¡°Are you telling me that the wood of the trees here in the Tempest Cliff are so sturdy that I would need something like diamond to make a nick on these branches?¡±

    Eventually, Argentum calmed down from his anger, looking at the branches and rocks scattered on the ground, which served as a sort of memory for his unreasonable eagerness to craft a fire in the Tempest Cliff. It was when he was looking at the branches did a thought surface in his mind, prompting him to stand up as he started to make a run for the Tempest Branch Alliance¡¯s base.

    ¡°Wait a second. Why am I trying to make a fire if I know very well that Chonk and his army are gonnae within 12 hours?¡± Argentum shouted as he exerted all of his strength towards his legs. Not only that, he also activated [Sense Sharing] and [Automated Clone Control], returning the main control back to his original body, whilemanding his clone to continue to run towards the base, making sure that he was not seen by any of the other Inanimates in the base.

    Whoosh!

    In an instant, all of the control was transferred back to Aurus, his original body, looking at the surroundings for a bit before telling Fenrir and Charisa, who were still in a state of grinding skills as ofte, that he was going to go somewhere for a bit. After that, Aurus hastily teleported out of the Tower of Seclusion, even going so far as to activate the Ruler skill he had that was rted to movement in order to reduce the time spent traveling towards his clone.

    Fortunately, due to the two of them moving at the same time, it only took around a minute for the two to meet at an area slightly far away from the Tempest Cliff. It was an area covered with multiple trees and shrubs, allowing Aurus to be at ease, knowing that he wouldn¡¯t be found out by the other Inanimates, even though all of them are inside the base.

    Facing each other, Aurus started to hover as hemanded Argentum to sit down. Due to [Automated Clone Control], Argentum¡¯s movements were stiff and unnatural, unlike before where Aurus consciously controlled his movements. Of course, Aurus did not mind this as he started muttering to himself, trying to recall all of his thoughts regarding the Animate existence level.

    ¡°Although having something to cover my private parts was necessary, making a fire wasn¡¯t necessary at all. I know very well that Chonk and his army are getting closer and closer as I speak to myself, but it seems that I¡¯ve be a bit rxed after knowing that I have a clone that could inflict a great injury on him. Of course, a great injury would allow us to have an advantage, but his death would be better than just greatly debilitating him.¡±

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡± Aurus then pondered for a bit, looking at his clone every once in a while as he pondered as to how he would make his clone stronger. ¡°I¡¯ve more or less attained the peak of strength I could obtain with this original body of mine. The same can¡¯t be said for Argentum though, he doesn¡¯t have a Tempering skill to start transitioning sses.¡±

    In Aurus¡¯ memory, Tempering skills were skills used by Animates at the start to enhance the properties of their bodies, allowing them wield strength greater than a normal Animate, allowing their bodies to unlock more of their bodies¡¯ potential and exert greater power, which has been split up into Ranks.

    Of course, Aurus knew that he could start formting a Tempering skill for Argentum, but he also knew that it took a lot of time for a Tempering skill to reach its peak stage, especially with the fact that a Tempering skill could be enhanced while being trained. That¡¯s why, he was trying to find a way to enhance his clone¡¯s strength without having to resort to the Tempering skill first. Only if those methods did not work would he go ahead and let his clone start formting a Tempering skill.

    ¡°How about I give him equipment?¡± Aurus asked himself, wondering if the equipment he had made for the alliance members would be able to be worn by his clone. Bringing out the ¡®Marquis of Magical Destruction¡¯ set he crafted for himself from his inventory, he gradually brought the equipment set closer and closer to the clone¡¯s body with his tendrils, only hearing a notification sound after the equipment set came into contact with his clone¡¯s body.

    Ding!

    ¡®The entity cannot wear this equipment due to the difference in existence level.¡¯

    Reading through the notification screen that appeared not long after the notification sound resounded, Aurus let out a chuckle that seemed to say that he was expecting this, muttering soon after, ¡°Well, it was worth a shot. The difference between this original body and the clone¡¯s existence level is quiterge, so it¡¯s understandable if it doesn¡¯t work. Then again, I¡¯ve heard rumors back then that Animates could wear equipment made by Pseudo-Animates, albeit the strength of the equipment would be lessened thanks to the difference in existence level.¡±

    ¡°What can I try next?¡± Aurus pondered a bit more, wracking his mind to the limit as another idea came to mind a few secondster. ¡°Hmm¡­I can try imparting skills to the clone. Since the skill I impart to other Inanimates are modified by the system beforehand, surely the system would modify the skill to fit an Animate, right?¡±

    Soon after, he opened up the skill impartation screen, setting the target to his clone in front of him. Just as he was about to impart a skill to his clone, he noticed that all of the skills in his skill list were cked out, with a small line of text on the top, telling him that he could not impart any skills to the clone due to the difference in existence level. Seeing as that did not work as well, Aurus let out a sigh and closed the screen before looking at his clone and saying, ¡°Since both of those didn¡¯t work, and I don¡¯t have any other way to enhance my clone¡¯s strength other than those two methods, it seems that I really have to start formting a Tempering skill.¡±

    Just as he was about to transfer his control back to his clone¡¯s body, Aurus received a message from a certain entity, her voice resonating with great familiarity in his mind.

    ¡°Aurus, the members have started gathering in the hall already. Although I haven¡¯t shown myself yet, you should head to the main hall now since you¡¯re the one giving out the equipment anyway,¡± this voice said in his mind. Of course, this voice came from none other than Herellia, the leader of the Tempest Branch Alliance.

    Looking at his clone for a bit after receiving the message, he let out a sigh before starting to teleport towards the main hall of the alliance, muttering to himself, ¡°Well, I still have [Sense Sharing] on, so I can see what my clone is doi¡ª¡±

    ¡°Oi! Stop eating grass!¡±

 Chapter 160: Distribution

    Chapter 160: Distribution

    Due to his Ruler skill rted to movement still being activated all the while he was trying to find other methods to enhance his clone¡¯s power, it did not take long for Aurus to arrive in the alliance base, teleporting to the center of the main hall in less than 30 seconds or so.

    Whoosh!

    At the very moment he had appeared in the main hall, he had obtained the attention of quite a few members of the alliance, their senses of vision looking towards where Aurus appeared. Of course, the reason why he had only obtained quite a bit of attention was due to the fact that the members were just starting to head into the main hall. If he hadeter, it was certain that almost everyone that had congregated into the main hall would be staring at him with auras of slight stupefaction.

    Nheless, since only a few members were currently in the main hall, Aurus decided to act his part of the alliance as a Pir level member and asked them to line up properly as they waited for Herellia toe to the main hall. Fortunately, most of the members followed what Aurus told them to do after recalling the show of power he did when became an Executive level member of the alliance. As for those that did not recall it, they instead followed what Aurus told them due to the aura of a Pir level member surrounding his body.

    Gradually, more and more members congregated into the main hall, slowly but surely making the main hall a bit more noisy as time passed by. Eventually, all of the members had congregated into the main hall, with the Pir level members of the alliance helping Aurus out in maintaining order and peace amongst the members in the main hall. At this point in time, they were only waiting for Herellia to arrive since most of them were told by her toe to the main hall.

    Other than Aurus, no one else knew why Herellia called them to congregate in the main hall. Fortunately, it did not take long for her to arrive, appearing in a slightly extravagant fashion as her body was covered in red tendrils before spreading open to reveal her body filled to the brim with red engravings. Just as she removed the tendrils covering her body, Aurus could not help but notice that the aura that the red engravings gave out were more intense than before, as if the red engravings were hiding some sort of greater power that would allow Herellia to destroy even a Pseudo-Animate in one attack.

    Nevertheless, this was just a passing thought as he waited for Herellia to call him over and talk about his equipment sets. Surprisingly, rather than getting straight to the point and calling him at the very start of the meeting, Herellia decided to call a few Pir level members to modify a bit of the main hall to create a stage for her to be seen by everyone. At this point in time, Aurus could not help but wonder what she was thinking.

    ¡°Everyone, I¡¯m d you listened to my call, congregating in this main hall on this very fine day.¡± Herellia started to talk after a makeshift stage out of raised ground was made. ¡°I¡¯m sure we all know that everyone here is preparing for the inevitable war between one of our greatest enemies in this Tempest Cliff, crafting multiple trump cards that would help oneself, a group, or even all of us.¡±

    ¡°I would like everyone to know that a certain member in our alliance has crafted a trump card that would allow everyone to have greater survivability, as well as deal more damage against our enemies in the uing war.¡± While saying this, an excited aura radiated out of Herellia as she focused her sense of vision towards one of the members below the raised ground.

    ¡°I would like to invite Aurus up on this stage and tell us about the new trump card he has made.¡± Soon after, this aura was mixed with a hint of happiness as well, as well as a hint of confidence, though no one knew where thetter came from.

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    Just as his name was mentioned, everyone in the main hall turned their bodies around to focus their sense of vision towards Aurus, who finally got what Herellia was trying to do.

    ¡®Does she want me to be recognized by everyone or something? I don¡¯t really know what she¡¯s trying to do,¡¯ Aurus thought to himself as he teleported on the surface of the raised ground in the matter of an instant, avoiding the possible gazes he would¡¯ve gotten if he had just slowly hovered towards the raised ground. Looking at the alliance members that were looking at him, waiting for him to start saying stuff, he imitated the sound of an Animate clearing their throat before starting.

    ¡°Hello everyone, my name is Aurus. I¡¯m pretty sure most of you know me as that Executive level member that did a show of power quite some time ago.¡± Aurus started to speak, his mind turning its gears at the limit to make sure that he did not beat around the bush that much.

    ¡°I stand here on this stage today to tell everyone that I have created a trump card that would allow everyone to survive the war with greater chances, and even deal more damage to the enemies one woulde across in the war.¡± After saying this, hemanded the system in his mind to open his weapon inventory, revealing a small rift over his wooden sculpture body. The rift caught the attention of everyone in the main hall, making sure that everyone could see what Aurus was grabbing through his tendrils made out of FP.

    Not long after, a set of armor and weapons was revealed to everyone in the alliance. Holding it up with tendrils, Aurus then said, ¡°This is the trump card I show to you today. These are something I crafted called equipment sets. These equipment sets enhance the abilities of the wearer to a great extent, allowing them to move unhindered amongst those with the same level of power.¡±

    ¡°Alliance Leader, could you please move forward and demonstrate the effects of the equipment set.¡± While continuing to hold the equipment set upwards, Aurus looked at Herellia, who was beside him, and asked her to move forward, to which Herellia obliged without a problem.

    ¡°I have already given our alliance leader an equipment set in order for others to see how the equipment set is used,¡± Aurus continued to talk as an equipment set manifested in front of Herellia in a matter of an instant. Not long after, Herellia positioned herself to where her body ovepped over the equipment set before shouting, ¡°Wear Equipment Set.¡±

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    In a matter of an instant, the pieces of armor made their way towards Herellia¡¯s body, covering her whole body with three pieces of armor, while a barrier surrounding her body constituted the fourth piece of armor in the equipment set. Soon after, the weapon came into contact with Herellia¡¯s body, gradually fusing with it as the aura that emanated from her body radiated with greater intensity, giving everyone the feeling that herbat power had reached a level beyond what an X-grade Inanimate could possibly unleash.

    Add on the quality of the equipment set being translucent thanks to the material used, it also gave everyone a feeling that Herellia was some sort of otherworldly Inanimate being, an Inanimate that stood beyond all Inanimates.

    Seeing as how everyone watching Herellia wear the equipment set were mesmerized, Aurus decided to create arge ball of FP above everyone in the main hall before letting it burst, creating a loud sound that snapped everyone back to reality as everyone started to cheer for Aurus and his equipment set.

    Although Aurus did not mind doing it for the alliance since it had taken care of him, he was still happy to see that the members were supportive of what he had done. Telling Herellia to move back, Aurus went to the front once more and said, ¡°Everyone, I have crafted two type of equipment sets for everyone to use. The first equipment set is called ¡®Blessed by the Heavens¡¯ and it is meant for all of the members in the alliance to have. This equipment set will increase your defensive and offensive properties against anything you face against.¡±

    ¡°As for those at the Pir level,¡± Aurus continued, before adding, ¡°You will have another type of equipment set to use named ¡®Devourer of the Living¡¯. This equipment set is meant to increase the damage dealt to Animates, which will definitely be useful in the uing war.¡±

    ¡°I shall now be distributing all of the equipment sets right now since we have no idea when our greatest enemy will attack,¡± Aurus said after that, asking a few members to create ramps on both sides of the raised ground. ¡°Pir level members, pleasee up on stage and I shall distribute the ¡®Blessed by the Heavens¡¯ and ¡®Devourer of the Living¡¯ sets to you.¡±

    Not long after that, all of the Pir level members, who helped him maintain order in the main hall a while ago, made their way up through the ramps as Aurus gave them the equipment sets one by one. After the Pir level members were the Executive level members, who only obtained a ¡®Blessed by the Heavens¡¯ set unlike the Pir level members before them.

    The same went for the normal members of the alliance. Nevertheless, both the Executive level and normal members of the alliance were already ecstatic to obtain a single equipment set, seeing as theirbat power has been boosted by a great degree after equipping the equipment set they obtained. Noticing this, Aurus radiated an aura of happiness, seeing as how everyone decided to wear the equipment set right now rather thanter, which would end up bing an advantage for the allianceter on.

    ¡°I have now given all of the equipment sets I have to the members of the alliance,¡± Aurus said to catch everyone¡¯s attention, which it sessfully did. He then urged Herellia toe forward through exchange of energy, to which Herellia did as she said, ¡°This marks the end of the meeting. I hope everyone continues to improve theirbat power for the uing war, and make sure to practice the method I¡¯ve given to everyone.¡±

    After that, all of the alliance members dispersed one by one while some were left behind modifying the raised ground back to t ground again. Then, after those who were left behind dispersed as well, only Aurus and Herellia remained in the main hall by themselves.

    ¡°It seems you have something else to talk about?¡± Herellia looked at Aurus in front of her and asked.

    Aurus radiated an aura of affirmation as he replied, ¡°Indeed, I do. Since you¡¯re the alliance leader, I¡¯ve decided to make an equipment set befitting an alliance leader, enhancing yourbat abilities to its limit.¡±

    Whoosh!

    A rift appeared for a short bit, revealing an equipment set that was glowing a faint red and white light, with the red being moremon than the white. He grabbed this equipment set and brought it out for Herellia to see, saying, ¡°This set is called ¡®Marchioness of Blood¡¯. It enhances the abilities of your skills by quite a decent amount, and even allow you to heal yourself while taking damage.¡±

    He then ced it down in front of Herellia, to which Herellia equipped without hesitation, recing the ¡®Devourer of the Living¡¯ equipment set he was wearing before. At the very instant the equipment set was finished fitting itself around Herellia¡¯s body, the aura radiating from her had intensified even further, even more intense whenpared to the aura brought about by equipping the ¡®Devourer of the Living¡¯ set.

    Herellia closed her sense of vision for a bit before opening it and looking at Aurus in silence. After a short while, she then asked Aurus, ¡°Is it alright if you be the alliance¡¯s vice leader?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯d be d to,¡± Aurus radiated an aura of affirmation. He then asked, ¡°Do I have to go to the Alliance Hall for the ritual again?¡±

    ¡°No need,¡± Herellia replied. ¡°I just remembered a couple of days ago that you don¡¯t really have to go to the Alliance Hall to promote your position.¡±

    ¡°I see¡­¡± Aurus responded back, extending thest syble by quite a bit. After noticing that the atmosphere around was quite awkward, Aurus dryly chuckled before saying, ¡°I guess I¡¯ll be off then.¡±

    In response, Herellia chuckled as well before replying, ¡°Go ahead. Stay safe.¡±

    Whoosh!

    And so, after bidding farewell, Aurus teleported towards the Tower of Seclusion yet one more time. The reason as to why is because he was about to start formting a Tempering skill for Argentum.

 Chapter 161: Divine Wind Spirit

    Chapter 161: Divine Wind Spirit

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    It only took a few teleports for Aurus to arrive at the Tower of Seclusion, specifically in the room where Fenrir and Charisa were still grinding as ofte. It was only at this point did Aurus deactivate his Ruler skill, looking at Fenrir and Charisa, who were still engrossed in grinding. Just as he was about toe closer to them and tell them that he was going somewhere else, a sh of light radiated out of Fenrir¡¯s body.

    ¡°Eh?¡± Aurus could not help but think that his sense of vision was ying tricks with him. He knew very well that once a skill has reached the Transcendent level, a sh of light would radiate from the body of the being that achieved it. Not long after, a sh of light radiated out of Charisa¡¯s body as well.

    And then¡­

    Swish! Swish! Swish!

    Like strobing lights, shes of light radiated out of Fenrir and Charisa¡¯s body in an alternate manner, making Aurus be silent as he waited for the two of them to stop shing out light. Eventually, around a couple of minutester, the shing of light stopped as the two of them opened their senses of vision as they looked at their master with auras of excitement and happiness radiating out of them.

    With the two of them looking at him, Aurus could not help but chuckle as he thought that it was not a problem for him to dy the formtion of the Tempering skill quite a bit as he said, ¡°You two have given quite a big surprise. I¡¯m d the two of have achieved Transcendent level on your skills.¡±

    ¡°We have fulfilled your request, Master,¡± Fenrir said in a polite manner, wagging his tail left to right. ¡°As requested, we have achieved the Transcendent level for all of our skills.¡±

    ¡°¡­¡± Aurus was at a loss for words for quite a bit, wondering if what he heard was correct. Although he knew that theirprehension speeds had gotten faster since he had absorbed a Transcending Comprehension Leaf, it shouldn¡¯t be that fast, right?

    ¡°Are you surprised, Master~?¡± This time, it was Charisa, who spoke beforeughing with glee. ¡°You did tell us that we had to reach Transcendent level on all our skills, right~?¡±

    ¡°Ah¡­right.¡± It was after Charisa asked this question was his memory jogged, allowing him to remember what he told them. Although it had been like a day or two since he told them this, due to the amount of things he had done during the past day or so, the details of what he told them had be quite blurry, only bing detailed as ofte.

    ¡°Anyways, since both of you have achieved Transcendent level skills,¡± Aurus said to the two of them, before adding, ¡°It¡¯s time for the two of you to evolve even further.¡±

    He looked at Charisa and said, ¡°Since you¡¯re still at A-grade, you¡¯ll be the first one I evolve to X-grade.¡± He then looked at Fenrir and asked, ¡°Do you have any problems with that, Fenrir?¡±

    ¡°I have no problems at all,¡± Fenrir replied politely. ¡°As long as myrades are stronger, that means our power to protect Master would be even greater.¡±

    Hearing Fenrir¡¯s reply, Aurus could not help but radiate an aura of happiness as he looked at Charisa one more time and asked, ¡°Are you ready?¡±

    As the mes on her body intensified, Charisa replied with glee, ¡°Always ready, Master~!¡±

    Nodding inwardly, he thenmanded the system, ¡°System, all of my unused experience points to max out Charisa¡¯s level.¡±

    Ding!

    ¡®A lot of unused experience points have been deducted from the user¡¯s inventory.¡¯

    ¡®[Charisa merei] has reached the MAX level.¡¯

    ¡®[Charisa merei] has met the necessary requirements and is ready to evolve.¡¯

    Not long after obtaining these notifications, which hastily passed through his mind, he thenmanded, ¡°Evolve Charisa.¡±

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    In an instant, all of the Fire energy particles that were present in the room started condensing into small orbs of Fire energy particles, before heading towards Charisa¡¯s body, which she absorbed without a problem. Of course, the transformation did not stop there. Like a small but violent whirlpool, Charisa¡¯s body continued to absorb Fire energy particles outside the room, even going so far as to absorb a lot of the Fire energy particles present in the small ecosystem.

    This in turn increased the intensity of the mes on Charisa¡¯s body, transforming the ck mes into mes that flickered between ck and white, as if a bnce has been reached between the two. Not only that, the mes even expanded to spread around the wooden part of Charisa¡¯s body, transforming into what seemed to look like a coat made out of ck and white mes.

    Whoosh!

    After a few more seconds, the intensity of the mes calmed down as Charisa looked at Aurus and said, ¡°Thanks for allowing me to wield more power, Master~! I now have more power to protect you!¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m d you feel that way,¡± Aurus replied back, an aura of happiness radiating from him as he knew that by evolving Charisa to the next grade, her Ally skill would improve as well, which focused on the great extreme of offensive properties. Just as he was about to go ahead and evolve Fenrir, a bad feeling enveloped his body, prompting him to look at Fenrir and saying, ¡°Fenrir, I think I¡¯ll have to postpone your evolution for a bit. I seriously apologize.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s fine, Master,¡± Fenrir replied back without being jealous of Charisa¡¯s evolution. ¡°Charisa and I are finally at the same evolution level, it¡¯s kind of a nice feeling.¡±

    ¡°Haha, I agree as well~!¡± Charisa chuckled as she replied.

    ¡°Anyways, since the both of you have achieved the Transcendent level skill, there¡¯s no need for you two to stay in this ce anymore. I¡¯ll bring the two of you out of the system when the war starts, okay?¡± After hearing their replies, Aurus looked at the two of them and said this.

    ¡°Alright, Master,¡± Fenrir replied. ¡°Just make sure to call us for that trump card, okay?¡±

    ¡°I definitely will,¡± Aurus answered Fenrir¡¯s question.

    Whoosh!

    ¡°Don¡¯t forget about us, okay Master?¡± After Fenrir disappeared from their fields of vision, Charisa was the next one to talk to Aurus. Of course, Aurus responded with a light chuckle, saying, ¡°Why would I?¡±

    Whoosh!

    It was then that Fenrir and Charisa had finally returned to the system, leaving Aurus alone once more. In actuality, Aurus was never alone, he could always converse with Fenrir and Charisa through the system, so it was fine. Nevertheless, after keeping the two in his system, he focused his mind back to his original train of thought, which was to formte a Tempering skill for his clone, Argentum.

    Swoosh!

    Of course, it only took an instant for Aurus to consciously control Argentum¡¯s movements, leaving his original body in the Tower of Seclusion without hesitation. At the very instant he obtained full control over Argentum, the first thing he did was¡­

    Spit out what Argentum had in his mouth.

    ¡°Pweh! Pweh! What have you been eating while you were in auto?¡± Aurus could not help butin as bits of dirt and grass was spitted out of Argentum¡¯s mouth. Although he knew what Argentum was doing through [Sense Sharing], he could not really do much since he can¡¯t really control two bodies at once. He did not even know how one could do that.

    Nheless, Aurus¡­well, Argentum was now back to his previous self, a man that didn¡¯t eat grass or leaves or anything off the ground. At this moment in time, Argentum was deciding on what kind of Tempering skill he wanted to go with.

    ¡°System, bring up my skill list,¡± Argentummanded the system, to which the system hastily replied since the clone was also a part of the system.

    Ding!

    ________

    Skills:

    [Nature¡¯s Blessing], [Spirit Resonance], [Wind Affinity], [Innate Tempered Body], [Natural Mana Affinity]

    ________

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡± Argentum looked at the skills he had and pondered over it for quite a while, wondering what kind of skills he could use to formte a Tempering skill. While thinking about thebinations, he could not help but mutter, ¡°I¡¯m quite lucky that I have skills to start out with. If not, it would take me a long time to formte a Tempering skill.¡±

    In Argentum¡¯s memories from his previous life, Tempering skills could only be obtained once one had at least one skill in their skill list as an Animate. The methods to obtaining these skills ranged from continuous fighting, piging inheritances, or even doing menial work. What was constant though was that the more skills one added into the formtion of the Tempering skill, the stronger the Tempering skill would be.

    Of course, the downside to it was that it would be harder for the person to ascend to a higher Rank. Then again, Argentum¡­Aurus had reached the existence level of Godhood in his previous life. To him, even what seemed to be a great spike in difficulty in ascending ranks in the Animate level was nothingpared to the existence level after that, or the difficulty in ascending ranks in the existence level of Godhood.

    ¡°Identify [Innate Tempered Body],¡± Argentummanded soon after, checking the description of each skill he had.

    Ding!

    ________

    [Innate Tempered Body]

    A rare condition for humans, those born with this skill have greater overall abilities whenpared to other humans.

    Effect: All Stats +1

    ________

    ¡°Identify [Nature¡¯s Blessing].¡±

    Ding!

    ________

    [Nature¡¯s Blessing]

    A rare condition for humans. Those born with this skill have enhanced abilities when around nature.

    Effect: 20% boost to all stats when near nature, removal of the need to eat or drink when near nature

    ________

    ¡°Identify [Wind Affinity].¡±

    Ding!

    ________

    [Wind Affinity]

    The inclination towards the Wind element. Those with this skill have greater sess whenprehending anything rted to the Wind element.

    ________

    ¡°Identify [Natural Mana Affinity].¡±

    Ding!

    ________

    [Natural Mana Affinity]

    The inclination towards the maniption of the mana in the surroundings. Those with this skill can rely on the mana surrounding them to power their abilities.

    ________

    ¡°Andstly, identify [Spirit Resonance].¡±

    Ding!

    ________

    [Spirit Resonance]

    When two entities are born from the same soul, a resonance between the two is born, enhancing the qualities of both entities when in close proximity with one another.

    Effect: 50% boost to stats when close to another being that has [Spirit Resonance]

    ________

    After reading through all of the description of the skills he currently had, Argentum closed his eyes and wondered whatbination would be the best path for this body of his. Although his goal was to make a Tempering skill that would allow him to stand above peers of equal rank, he wanted the difficulty of ascending to be quite low whenpared to the other Tempering skills out there. Of course, his definition of low was different from other people¡¯s definition.

    ¡°[Spirit Resonance] is a skill that works only when I¡¯m around my original body. It is nice, but in the off chance that I¡¯m not close to my original body, I¡¯d be incredibly weak. Hmm¡­I won¡¯t add it in the formtion,¡± Argentum started thinking out loud.

    ¡°As for [Innate Tempered Body], although it is a good skill as a foundation, I don¡¯t really like fighting with my bare fists, which would be the possible result of the Tempering skill once I add this skill in.¡±

    ¡°Well then, by the looks of it, the path I¡¯m gonna take seems to be obvious.¡± Seeing as the three skills that remain from his list are quitepatible with one another, Argentum could not help but chuckle as he said to the system, ¡°Combine [Natural Mana Affinity], [Wind Affinity], and [Nature¡¯s Blessing] into a Tempering skill.¡±

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    After Argentum was finishedmanding the system, a small tornado started to appear around Argentum, with Argentum being in the eye of this tornado. This tornado grew more and more intense until it seemingly ttened down due to some unknown force from above. Not long after, this ttened tornado shrunk in size and made its way towards the top of Argentum¡¯s head, acting as some sort of halo as a green light started to radiate from this ttened tornado.

    Ding!

    As a notification sound resounded throughout his mind as the halo radiated green light, Argentum hastily opened up the notification screen in front of his field of vision. The words on the notification screen were:

    ¡®Bybining three highlypatible skills with one another, the Tempering skill [Divine Wind Spirit] has been created. Would you like to train in this Tempering skill?¡¯

    Not long after, he brought up the information regarding the benefits of the Tempering skill he had just made on another screen. After seeing what it offered, Argentum looked at the halo of green light over his head before he responded with one word.

    ¡°Yes.¡±

 Chapter 162: Acolyte of Wind

    Chapter 162: Acolyte of Wind

    Ding!

    ¡®Bybining three highlypatible skills with one another, the Tempering skill [Divine Wind Spirit] has been created. Would you like to train in this Tempering skill?¡¯

    As this notification appeared in front of Argentum¡¯s field of vision while a halo of green light was revolving above his head, he could not help but ponder as to what kind of path the Tempering skill would give him. Not only that, he also wondered if it would suit him in the long run.

    ¡°Identify the created Tempering skill,¡± Argentum softlymanded the system, to which the system subserviently followed as a screen filled with the information regarding the [Divine Wind Spirit] appeared beside the notification screen.

    Ding!

    ________

    [Divine Wind Spirit]

    A spirit loved by the wind. A spirit loved by nature. The world is its mother, and the wind is its nourishment. Due to how it has been raised, its power is extremely pure and strong, allowing it to cast tornadoes with a small power or tear the skies asunder with a simple movement of its limbs. That is the Divine Wind Spirit.

    Effects:

    > ss changes to Acolyte of Wind

    > Intelligence + 15 (Reach full mastery)

    > Vitality + 5 (Reach full mastery)

    > Agility + 10 (Reach full mastery)

    > Ability to cast certain Level 0 Spells

    ________

    ¡°Hmm¡­that¡¯s quite a good effect whenpared to other Tempering skills,¡± Argentum could not help but say as he read through the information written on the screen. He then added, ¡°Although it¡¯s not as good as those top-tier Tempering skills, I could still enhance the skills that make up the Tempering skill in order to enhance its effects.¡±

    ¡°Nevertheless, this will definitely do for now,¡± Looking at the halo of green light above his head, he confirmed through the system that he was going to train in the Tempering skill that was created. In response, the notification screen that asked him whether he was going to train in it or not had disappeared, while the halo of green light over his head had intensified, radiating a brighter light than before.

    Not long after, the halo of green light had expanded in diameter and went down by a bit, circling around Argentum¡¯s forehead, giving him the feeling that a cool breeze was blowing around his forehead. After that, the halo of green light instantly shrunk in diameter, passing through Argentum¡¯s head in an instant. Rather than feel any sort of pain from this urrence, Argentum felt intensefort from this urrence instead as the Wind energy particles that were inside that halo of green light started to spread throughout his whole body.

    With every cell that the Wind energy particle from that halo touched, a bit of the energy inside those particles would be absorbed by the cell, gradually transforming it into a cell that was inclined towards the Wind element. Thissted for a few minutes, with the final changes happening on his brain, allowing him to think faster, as if he was thinking at the speed of wind.

    Whoosh!

    After that final change, the Wind energy particles that constituted the halo of green light a while ago had dissipated as a notification sound resounded throughout his mind.

    Ding!

    ¡®The user has obtained a Tempering skill: [Divine Wind Spirit]. Progress: 0%¡¯

    ¡®The user has undergone the first Tempering process. Intelligence has been increased by 3 points, Vitality has been increased by 1 point, and Agility has been increased by 2 points. The user must reach 25% progress in the Tempering skill to undergo the second Tempering process.¡¯

    ¡®The user has be more inclined towards the Wind element. [Wind Affinity] has been upgraded to [Wind Affinity (Intermediate)].¡¯

    ¡®The user has changed their ss to Acolyte of Wind.¡¯

    These were the notifications Argentum had obtained after hearing the notification sound resound throughout his mind. After reading through all of it, he then started to move here and there, noticing the improvement he had obtained in terms of Agility and Vitality.

    ¡°Although the increment was only a few points, the improvement it brought is quite surprising,¡± Argentum could not help but say as he closed his eyes. ¡°Let¡¯s see if 3 additional points in Intelligence has some great effect.¡±

    Whoosh!

    At that very instant, Argentum started calcting in his mind, starting with the number 1, then doubling it, then doubling it again and again. Surprisingly, it was about a minute until Argentum opened his eyes, the insides of it glistening with wonder as he muttered, ¡°To think that I can actually calcte to that extent¡­in my previous life, I couldn¡¯t go beyond the millions¡­¡±

    ¡°What if my intelligence had increased by 15 points¡­how far would I be able to calcte,¡± Argentum could not help but wonder, before snapping back from his daze of awe and wonder. He realized that even though the skills he fused together were not at their greatest levels yet, the power of the Tempering skill they created did not lose out to some Tempering skills made with maxed out skills. He was quite satisfied with what the Tempering skill could do for now, but he would surely enhance it to its limits after the war.

    ¡°Okay, I¡¯ve finished testing what the Tempering skill can do right now,¡± Argentum muttered to himself as he sat down on the ground cross-legged, closing his eyes as he opened up the [Divine Wind Spirit] skill in his mind, a light green book manifesting in his mind not long after.

    As someone who had read a ton of web novels in his past life, Argentum could not help but think that Tempering and Ascension skills were simr to the cultivation techniques from those web novels he had read. While browsing through the pages that instructed Argentum on how to progress further in the [Divine Wind Spirit] skill, he could not help but say inwardly, ¡°I guess I can consider this as cultivation?¡±

    Since [Divine Wind Spirit] was a Tempering skill was made out of skills that weren¡¯t maxed out yet, the difficulty in progressing through it was not that hard. Well, for Argentum, it was not that hard. If it were given to another person to train in, they would already be stumped as to how they would manipte the mana surrounding them, allow a cycle of transformation to form around their body, and then using those cycles to hammer the cells from the inside, as well as the outside, achieving a qualitative change.

    Fortunately, Argentum was someone equipped with the memories of his past life as to how he would go about training in the Tempering skill. Even though it had been a long time since he had trained in a Tempering skill, after testing the waters for a few minutes, he was able to pick up the pace,pleting his first cycle in 30 minutes. After the first cycle, he looked at how much progress he was able to rue and noticed that he had only increased the Tempering skill¡¯s progress by 0.2 percent.

    Rather than getting discouraged by this, Argentum let out a small chuckle as he muttered, ¡°0.2 percent is already quite a lot for one cycle. I remember that some Tempering skills only progress by 0.001 percent per cycle. Add in the fact that they¡¯re Tempering skills made from maxed out skills, I can say without a doubt that I¡¯ve obtained quite a good Tempering skill.¡±

    After that, Argentum closed his eyes and focused all of his attention to training in the methods of the [Divine Wind Spirit] skill. Surprisingly, he was able to speed up the cycle a bit more thanks to his past memories, reaching a peak of 20 minutes per cycle. Whenpared to the multiple Tempering skills out there in the world, it might seem slow, but in terms of power to time ratio, it had quite a high ratio.

    And so, with his attention wholeheartedly focused on training in the [Divine Wind Spirit] skill, 8 hours have passed since Argentum had started training in it. At this point in time, the amount of progress Argentum had achieved in mastering the Tempering skill was already at 4.8 percent, a number that quite a lot of Animates would scoff at if they didn¡¯t take the amount of time taken into consideration.

    Just before he started his current cycle, he noticed that he was close to getting to 5 percent, which was mentioned in the book of the [Divine Wind Spirit] that achieving this number would unlock something rted to the person¡¯s ss. With that in mind, he tried to make the cycle go faster, finishing the cycle in 15 minutes.

    Ding!

    As he finished the cycle, a notification sound resounded in his mind, prompting him to open up his notification screen as he read thetest notification he had received.

    ¡®The user has achieved 5% progress on [Divine Wind Spirit]. The user now has ess to the [Nature¡¯s Wind Bolt] spell.¡¯

    ¡°[Nature¡¯s Wind Bolt]?¡± Although Argentum was quite ecstatic that he was actually able to obtain a spell he could cast at 5% progress, at the very moment he read the name of the spell, he could help but recall a certain spell his original body had.

    ¡°If I could remember correctly, it was called [Wind Energy Bolt] or something along those lines,¡± Argentum muttered to himself as stood up and looked at the surroundings in front of him. With a n in mind, he started to walk towards a certain direction, making sure that he was still close to the alliance base. While walking, he could not help but think about how [Nature¡¯s Wind Bolt] is different from the [Wind Energy Bolt] he used to cast.

    ¡°System, identify [Nature¡¯s Wind Bolt],¡± Argentum softly uttered as he continued to walk towards a certain direction, a translucent screen appearing in front of his field of vision not long after.

    Ding!

    ________

    [Nature¡¯s Wind Bolt]

    MP Cost: 3 MP

    A Level 0 Spell inclined towards the Wind element. Its more known variant is the [Wind Energy Bolt], a spell that allows those that learn the magic arts to cast a bolt of wind towards their enemy. Although the normal variant is known for its speed, this variant is known for its improved speed and power, harnessing the power of nature¡¯s mana to propel the bolt at greater speeds.

    The spell¡¯s damage depends on the caster¡¯s Intelligence stat, as well as various skills that enhance Wind-based abilities and spells.

    ________

    Step. Step.

    ¡°I¡¯m finally here,¡± Argentum muttered to himself as he looked at the tree in front of him. This tree was one of the trees he had in mind when he wanted to obtain branches to make a fire. Unfortunately, due to hisck of strength, he was unable to do so, giving him the idea that this tree was a great target practice for a spell like [Nature¡¯s Wind Bolt].

    ¡°Let¡¯s see how powerful this [Nature¡¯s Wind Bolt] really is,¡± Argentum looked at the tree and brought up the incantation of the spell in his mind.

    ¡°Veritas Opensei Maximum.¡± As he started to chant out the incantation, he channeled the mana that was in his body towards his right hand, extending his palm outwards as he aimed towards the trunk of the tree. Eventually, his right hand started glowing green, gradually intensifying in color. And then¡­

    It turned white.

    ¡°[Nature¡¯s Wind Bolt]!¡±

    Fwoosh!

    At the very instant he was finished saying the spell¡¯s name, the white light covering his right hand converged towards the center of his palm and shot outwards towards the trunk of the tree. If one had fast enough eyes to catch it, as the bolt of white light was travelling towards the tree trunk, a faint green light started to swirl around this white bolt, which was actually the mana of nature being absorbed by the bolt.

    Swoosh!

    Since the white bolt was a better variant of the [Wind Energy Bolt], it only took a fraction of a second for it to reach the tree¡¯s trunk¡­and pierce through it cleanly. This sight left Argentum speechless as he looked at right palm for a bit, then looked back at the hole he had made through the tree trunk. It was then that he noticed that the bolt had not just pierced through one tree trunk¡­but ten.

    ¡°I¡­was actually able to do that?¡± Argentum could not believe what he was seeing, questioning himself in the process. Nheless, his motivation had instantly reached an all-time high thanks to this sight. If the first spell he had unlocked already had such great power, wouldn¡¯t he be able to dispatch Chonk in a matter of a few spells?

    With that thought in mind, he dashed back to where he was training before, shouting along the way, ¡°Chonk, better prepare to beg for mercy!¡±

 Chapter 163: Life and Death Decision

    Chapter 163: Life and Death Decision

    At the very moment he had returned back from his spell testing, Argentum hastily sat down on the ground cross-legged, envisioning the methods to progress in his Tempering skill as he closed his eyes. Due to the tion and motivation he had felt from the damage dealt by the first spell he had unlocked with his new ss, the speed at which he hadpleted a cycle of training this time had been reduced by quite a bit, only taking around 15 minutes or so instead of the usual 20 minutes.

    And so, with a hastened pace ofpletion, a full 2 hours had passed by, increasing Argentum¡¯s progress in his Tempering skill by 1.6 percent, bringing it to a total of 6.6 percent. While moving on to the next cycle, a few thoughts could not help but linger in his mind. One of the thoughts that lingered was the fact that if he wanted to enhance his Tempering skill, he would need to enhance the power of the skills making up the skill. The only problem was that, he only knew a few ways to enhance this skill at a fast pace, without enlisting the tutge of a mentor from an academy of sorts.

    With this thought in mind, he promised to himself that once the war was over, he would let Argentum enter human civilization and learn in an academy to increase the speed of improvement by quite a great degree.

    One of the other thoughts in his mind was the fact that he knew that for every cycle hepleted, the time remaining until Chonk and his army arrive in front of the Tempest Branch Alliance was getting shorter and shorter. With this in mind, he was trying to optimize his training as much as possible, but it seemed that fate did not want him to improve any further.

    Rumble¡­rumble¡­

    While finishing his current cycle, raising his progress by another 0.2 percent, Argentum could not help but feel the ground shaking violently. This shaking prompted him to stand up, wondering as to where the shaking came from. He had a thought that it could have from Chonk and his army traveling towards the alliance base, but then his rationality took over, telling him that Inanimates, when moving, can¡¯t make the ground shake.

    ¡°I guess it¡¯s just a passing earthquake,¡± Argentum said to himself, thinking that this was the most usible thing that was happening right now. Letting out a sigh of relief, he then sat back down on the ground¡­only to stand up once more.

    Bang! Crack! Bang!

    Amidst the violent rumbling of the ground, Argentum could not help but pick up faint sounds of explosions, as well as trees cracking and falling down. It was at this point that the idea of Chonk and his army getting closer in his mind had be more solidified. He thought about it for a bit, thinking about how the ground rumbling and the trees falling could be corrted to the movement of Chonk and his army.

    ¡°I should get closer to the origin of the sounds,¡± Argentum said before dashing towards the direction of the sound¡¯s origin. While making his way towards it, he was thinking out loud.

    ¡°Faint explosion sounds, trees cracking and falling down, as well as the ground shaking,¡± Argentum muttered to himself, thinking up of a connection between the three. ¡°I can connect the first two quite easily. The reason why I could hear faint explosion sounds and trees falling down can be due to the fact that Chonk¡¯s army wants to create a level ground for their army and our alliance to fight in,manding his army to break as much trees as possible.¡±

    ¡°As for the ground shake¡­¡± Argentum could not help but scratch his head, pondering over how he could connect this to the previous two. Eventually, when he hade to a distance where he could hear the sounds clearly, he muttered to himself in a doubtful tone, ¡°The reason why the ground is shaking¡­is it because they want to remove the tree stumps along the way?¡±

    Fortunately, he was only a short distance away from the origin of the sound, making sure to hide himself if the ones making the sound were Chonk¡¯s army. After making sure that he was camouged, he looked at the area where he heard the sounde from, only to have a slightly ted expression on his face. Not long after, this expression turned into that of slight fear.

    ¡°My guess was actually correct,¡± Argentum shouted inwardly, slightly shocked from what he was seeing in front of him. ¡°At a scale like this, it¡¯s no question that the ground would shake violently.¡±

    In front of him was the sight of multiple Inanimates, ranging from rocks to sticks, to even nts and small trees. Half of these Inanimates were targeting the trees along the way, making sure that the trees fell. If one attack did not make a tree fall down, then another attack woulde to make it fall down. As for the other half, they manipted the energy within their bodies to move the fallen trees out of their way, allowing them to move at a constant pace.

    ¡°To think that he¡¯s the one removing the stumps.¡± Continuing to look on further as to what was happening, Argentum could not help but mutter as the sight of an ethereal looking being hovered above all of the Inanimates, forming multiple threads of energy that singlehandedly uprooted the tree stumps along the way. This ethereal looking being was none other than Horell, who was now a Pseudo-Animate being. While looking at him, Argentum could not help but mutter to himself, ¡°I sure hope Herellia was right about Horell.¡±

    ¡°Wait¡­shit! I gotta alert Herellia about this!¡± Just as he was about to continue watching from the sidelines, he realized what he was looking at, making sure to move away from the site in the most silent way possible, before making a dash towards the area he was training in a while ago.

    Since it was an emergency, Argentum pushed his body to the limit, arriving at the area in the span of a couple of minutes. Although he was heavily gasping for air, the thought of conveying the information of Chonk and his army getting closer filled his mind, leaning on the trunk of a nearby tree before hastily transferring his control back to his original body. Of course, he made sure to still have [Sense Sharing] activated just in case the army came across his clone. But he did not activate [Automated Clone Control] since he did not want his clone to be put in danger unless needed.

    Whoosh!

    At the very instant Aurus regained control of his original body, hemanded the system to summon Fenrir and Charisa. It did not take long for them to manifest in front of their master, sensing the aura emanating from their master not long after.

    ¡°Master¡­has the timee?¡± Fenrir could not help but ask.

    ¡°Yeah, they¡¯re finally here,¡± Aurus replied to Fenrir in a concise manner, before adding, ¡°Although we¡¯re in the Tower of Seclusion, could you two protect me in the off chance that someone from the enemy army tries to attack me?¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Master~! We¡¯ll make sure no one can touch you except for us!¡± This time, it was Charisa who replied, replying in her energetic tone as usual.

    Radiating an aura of slight happiness, this aura then transformed into that of solemnity, hastily sending a thread of energy towards Herellia through the alliance system, connecting their minds together.

    ¡°Herellia, tell everyone to congregate at the main hall,¡± Aurus said at the very instant the connection was made. Herellia, who was on the other side of the connection, was slightly confused by Aurus¡¯ request, asking, ¡°What¡¯s it for?¡±

    ¡°Very bad news,¡± Aurus hastily replied. ¡°Chonk and his army are getting closer and closer to the alliance base. You don¡¯t have to know how I found out for now. Just tell everyone to congregate at the main hall and have their trump cards ready.¡±

    After a moment of silence, Herellia responded with, ¡°Alright. I¡¯ll tell them. You better head to the main hall as fast as you can as well, you hear me?¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I can teleport there at any time,¡± Aurus replied back with a slightly cheerful tone before cutting the connection between the two of them. Letting out a short sigh, Aurus then looked at Fenrir and Charisa, telling them to fall in line in front of him.

    ¡°I should¡¯ve done this earlier,¡± Aurus could not help but say as he looked at the two in front of him. ¡°I know it takes some time for the two of you to adapt to it, but I¡¯m going to have to evolve the two of you to X-grade right now to increase our chances of winning.¡±

    ¡°Go ahead, Master,¡± Fenrir responded without hesitation. ¡°It would allow us to protect you even more anyway.¡±

    ¡°Plus wouldn¡¯t it help in the n you had in mind, Master~?¡± Charisa continued where Fenrir had left off, before adding, ¡°We¡¯ll try to adapt to our increased powers as fast as possible.¡±

    ¡°If both of you are fine with it, then¡­¡± Hearing their replies, Aurus did not beat around the bush anymore,manding the system not long after.

    ¡°System, use my unused experience points to max out Fenrir and Charisa¡¯s levels.¡±

    Ding!

    Aurus did not know if it was an illusion or not, but he had a feeling that themands of the system be instantaneous when it felt like Aurus was in danger. It did not take long for multiple notifications to appear in front of his field of vision.

    ¡®A lot of unused experience points has been consumed.¡¯

    ¡®Fenrir and Charisa have both reached the MAX level.¡¯

    ¡®Fenrir and Charisa have both met the necessary requirements and are ready to evolve.¡¯

    After closing all of the notifications he had received, he thenmanded, ¡°Evolve both Fenrir and Charisa. Use up all of my unused experience points after that to raise their levels as high as possible.¡±

    Ding!

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    For some unknown reason, the speed at which Fenrir and Charisa had transformed into their evolved forms only took an instant, which made Aurus question the idea of the system acting faster when necessary. Nevertheless, he put this idea to the back of his head after removing notifications regarding Fenrir and Charisa¡¯s evolution, as well as their increase in level.

    ¡°Since both of you don¡¯t have any teleportation abilities, I¡¯ll keep you in the system for now,¡± Aurus said to the both of them, with them disappearing in front of his field of vision not long after. He did not wait for their approval since a matter of survival was currently happening, a matter which would dictate the alliance¡¯s life and death.

    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!

    Pulling out all the stops, Aurus activated all of his Ruler skills, gobbling up quite a lot of his FP at the first activation. Fortunately, the rate at which his FP regenerated was faster than how much the Ruler skills consumed, allowing him to maintain a state of always having full FP. Soon after that, he hastily teleported towards the main hall.

    ¡­

    Whoosh!

    It did not take a lot of teleportations for Aurus to arrive at the main hall, being greeted by the sight of almost all of the members of the alliance congregated with their equipment sets being worn. Even the Pir level members were no exception, wearing their ¡®Blessed by the Heaven¡¯ sets, just like the Executive level and normal members of the alliance.

    Seeing as everyone had already worn their equipment sets, Aurus decided to wear his equipment set as well, opening up his weapon inventory to bring out his ¡®Marquis of Magical Destruction¡¯ set for everyone to see. It did not take long for him to equip set, enveloping him in ayer of white light. Of course, at the very moment he was finished equipping this set, the aura he exuded exceeded the aura all of the Pir level members could exudebined. Nevertheless, one certain Inanimate could still surpass his aura.

    Whoosh!

    Not long after equipping his equipment set, the sight of a crimson red branch appeared in the center of the main hall, radiating an aura of power that exceeded Aurus¡¯ aura by quite a bit, allowing everyone to know that there was not much difference between thebat power of Aurus and the crimson red branch, slightly stupefying everyone. Nheless, since they were at war, the fact that two members at the leader level ofbat power made them feel at ease.

    ¡°It seems you¡¯ve showed your full power, Aurus.¡± A familiar voice resounded throughout the main hall, making Aurus smile inwardly as he replied, ¡°I can¡¯t lose out to you now that I¡¯m the vice leader of the alliance, right Herellia?¡±

    ¡°Well, that¡¯s true,¡± Herellia replied with a light chuckle, only to be stopped as a stifling aura swept over the whole alliance base, making everyone silent in an instant as they looked towards the direction of the aura¡¯s origin.

    Once they looked at its direction, they could all see a wolf with jade green fur standing in front of what seemed to be a giant army of Inanimates, not losing out to the number of members the Tempest Branch Alliance has. On the left side of the wolf was an ethereal looking being that was floating, while on the right side was a docile looking rabbit¡­if one ignored the murderous aura emanating from it.

    Seeing as how the wolf was just standing there, Herellia looked at everyone in the main hall before saying, ¡°Everyone, follow behind me.¡±

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    In that instant, all of the members of the Tempest Branch Alliance hade out of the alliance base,ing face to face with the army of the wolf in front of them. At the very front of this was Herellia, looking at therge wolf at the front of the army opposite her.

    ¡°You have two choices.¡± After a moment of tense silence between the two, the wolf opened its mouth and started to talk. ¡°You could submit to me and let the Tempest Branch Alliance be spared from destruction, or¡­fight.¡±

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡± Herellia used some of the energy in her body as a carrier of her voice, allowing everyone to hear her reply. After a few seconds, she then replied, ¡°How about we choose¡­thetter?¡±

    Whoosh!

    Soon after, an aura of power that surpassed what she showed before started to emanate from her, putting all of the members of the alliance at ease. As for the wolf on the other side, it remained silent for a bit in ponderation before opening its mouth to say¡­

    ¡°So be it.¡±

    ¡°Destruction it is.¡±

 Chapter 164: The First Wave

    Chapter 164: The First Wave

    This jade green wolf was none other than Chonk, who had brought his army towards the Tempest Branch Alliance in order for him to be the sole ruler of the Tempest Cliff. After saying what he had to say, he turned around and looked at the ethereal looking being on his right, bing silent as he pondered for a while. Eventually, he opened his mouth to say to the ethereal looking being, ¡°Initiate Code 11, mass destruction variant.¡±

    ¡°Got it, Master,¡± the ethereal looking being replied to Chonk¡¯s words, before maintaining its silence for a bit. While being silent, a pulsating aura of power started to emanate from its body as quite arge amount of energy particles were making their way towards it. These energy particles were soon absorbed by its body, increasing the size of its body before turning around to look at the great amount of Inanimates behind it. Not long after, it then spoke, ¡°Everyone, code 11! Aim your strongest skills towards me!¡±

    Afterward, it looked back at the army of Inanimates opposite where it was, focusing on the crimson red branch that was standing at the very front. Soon after that, it looked at another Inanimate, a slightly shocked aura emanating from it for quite a bit before chuckling.

    It then said inwardly, ¡°Herellia, it seems you¡¯ve improved quite a lot since I left. Trust me, even though I¡¯m not bound by contract, I¡¯ll help you defeat Chonk.¡±

    ¡°But Aurus¡­you¡¯re quite a fearsome being.¡±

    This ethereal looking being was none other than Horell, who had be a Pseudo-Animate after leaving the Tempest Branch Alliance. He could not help but feel regret that he was called by Chonk in order to be one of the leaders of this operation, though he could not do anything as Chonk was the one saved him, being his master.

    After muttering a few sentences inwardly, Horell, who had his back faced towards the Inanimates, felt a great aura emanating from behind him, reaching a level of ferocity that did not lose out to the maximum power he could unleash.

    ¡°Well then,¡± Horell said softly. ¡°Let¡¯s start this operation.¡±

    Horell turned around and expanded his aura to envelop all of the Inanimates who had their abilities charged. After looking at every single Inanimate, he then shouted, ¡°Aim¡­¡±

    ¡°Fire!¡±

    ¡­

    On the other hand, a tense silence enveloped every member of the Tempest Branch Alliance. Although they had prepared a lot of trump cards for this war, they still could not help but think at the back of their souls that they would surely lose against this war. They were up against two Animate level beings for fuck¡¯s sake!

    Ignoring the tense silence in the air, Aurus, who was somewhat near the front, made his way towards Herellia¡¯s side, teleporting in an instant. At the very instant he had teleported, he focused his sense of vision towards the opposing army, noticing that a great aura, that did not lose out to the auras emanated by the two of thembined, emanated from the opposing side.

    Aurus could not help but look at Herellia, sensing a nervous aura emanating from her. Knowing that removing nervousness would not do any good, Aurus then muttered to Herellia, ¡°It seems they¡¯re preparing to wipe us out at the first attack. Do you have any ns?¡±

    ¡°I do,¡± Herellia replied, still nervous. ¡°Though I¡¯m not sure if my n would hold up against the power of their attack.¡±

    ¡°Believe in our members,¡± Aurus said not long after in response, surprisingly easing Herellia¡¯s nervousness. ¡°They¡¯ve prepared quite a lot for this war. I¡¯ve also given everyone equipment sets that boost theirbat abilities. Don¡¯t you think we¡¯re at the peak of preparation?¡±

    Weeenggg¡­

    Just as Herellia was about to respond to Aurus¡¯ statement, Herellia could not help but sense a spike in the aura from the opposing side. Aurus could not help but notice this as well, seeing very well that every Inanimate on the opposing army was about to attack them. Not long after, every Inanimate fired their skills, prompting Herellia tomand a few members to cast movement speed enhancing spells on everyone, only to stop midway as she noticed that all of them aimed their skills towards one of the stronger beings in the opposing army.

    Of course, Herellia knew very well who the Inanimates were aiming at. From the aura she had sensed from this being, she could not help but mutter to herself, ¡°What are you nning to do, Horell? Do you still remember our promise?¡±

    Whoosh!

    In an instant, all of the skills fired by the Inanimates had congregated towards Horell, who had spoken the name of some spell, which was unfortunately left unheard by Aurus and Herellia due to their distance. Nevertheless, the two of them could see the effects of the spell, leaving both of them in stupefaction.

    ¡°What the¡­¡± Aurus could not help but say.

    ¡°I have a bad feeling about this,¡± Herellia, on the other hand, muttered to herself before turning her body to look at the members behind her.

    Not waiting for Horell to make his move, Herellia shouted, ¡°Those who have movement speed enhancing spells, cast it on everyone right now!¡±

    Fortunately, due to most of the members being silent, Herellia¡¯s voice could be heard among all the alliance members, allowing those who do have movement speed enhancing spells to cast them at the shortest amount of time possible.

    At the very instant Herellia could see that everyone had a movement speed buff on them, she then shouted, ¡°Make your way towards the main hall! Also, initiate Code 3!¡±

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    Unlike how Animates would retreat with the intent of preserving their own life, the members of the alliance made their way towards the main hall in a way that would surely stupefy Animates, moving along in an orderly manner. Once the first few members had entered the hall, they would hastily move towards the outer edges of the hall, leaving the entrance for the other members to get into until the hall slowly fills up towards the center.

    Aurus and Herellia did not take long to enter the main hall, with Aurus teleporting and Herellia flying at incredibly great speeds. Since they were more or less themanders, it would make sense for them to not be in the front lines, with Herellia looking throughout the main hall to see if certain members of the alliance had already entered the hall.

    Fortunately, those members were already inside the hall, prompting Herellia to shout, ¡°Code 3, ready?!¡±

    ¡°Ready!¡± One of the members on one corner of the hall had shouted in response. Not long after, a few more members had shouted the same thing, allowing Herellia to look at the opposing side with more ease.

    ¡°Alright,¡± Herellia shouted, before adding, ¡°Activate!¡±

    ¡°[Code 3: Imprable Fortress]!¡± Not long after, the members who responded to Herellia¡¯s question all shouted simultaneously, hastily conjuring a barrier of blue energy that covered a radius farrger than the size of the main hall. This sight could not help but surprise Aurus as he said to Herellia, who was beside him, ¡°When you say the alliance has trump cards, I seriously wasn¡¯t expecting this.¡±

    ¡°Although it looks nd, it can defend against attacks at my peak strength,¡± Herellia said not long after, exining the strength of the move that was just used. She then looked at the members who conjured the spell, before looking at the gradually intensifying aura emanating from Horell. At that point, she said, ¡°Though I¡¯m not sure if it could handle an attack at that level.¡±

    ¡°How about I help out?¡± Aurus pondered for a bit before responding. Herellia looked at him for a bit, wanting to say something, but Aurus made his move before Herellia could reply.

    ¡°[Boundless Spirit Domain]!¡±

    Whoosh!

    In an instant, arge domain appeared in the main hall, enveloping all of the alliance members with the feeling that they could exert more power with their skills, as well as use their skills more times than before. This also affected the members that conjured the spell from earlier, the barrier of blue energy surrounding the main hall instantly intensifying in strength.

    This move from Aurus left Herellia at a loss for words, taking quite a while for her to say, ¡°With this enhancement, I think we can¡­¡±

    ¡°We¡¯ll have to see if we survive then.¡± But before Herellia could finish her words, Aurus interrupted Herellia, telling her to focus her attention towards the ethereal looking being, who had already reached its limits, evident from the aura that was emanating from it.

    ¡°[Code 11: Inanimate Shattering Beam]!¡±

    Whizz¡­

    Not long after shouting the name of the spell, arge beam hastily made its way towards the entrance of the main hall, with the intent of wiping out all of the members of the Tempest Branch Alliance. Fortunately, this beam was stopped by the blue energy barrier conjured a while ago, warping quite a lot under the force of the beam. All of the members inside the main hall, which was being protected by the blue energy barrier, could not help but fall silent as they hoped the blue barrier could withstand the power of the beam.

    Unfortunately, just as it seemed that the beam was about to weaken in strength after ramming against the barrier for so long, all of the members of the alliance heard a voicee from the opposing side. This voice came from none other than Horell, shouting, ¡°[Energy Burst]!¡±

    Whoosh!

    At the very instant he was finished, the strength of the beam had intensified by threefold, instantly shattering the blue energy barrier protecting the members of the alliance. The members of the alliance could not help but hastily make their way towards the outer edges of the main hall, seeing as the beam was heading towards the center. Nevertheless, they still shouted their voices of concern towards the beings at the center of the main hall, namely Aurus and Herellia.

    Just as Herellia was about to make a move against the beam that was heading for the two of them, Aurus was ahead by her, teleporting closer to the beam before muttering under inwardly, ¡°[Grand Spiritas Deification].¡±

    Fwoosh!

    In an instant, the aura that Aurus emanated had now surpassed what Herellia radiated a while ago, around threefold the intensity of Herellia¡¯s. This instant jump in power made everyone look at the origin of the aura, slightly surprised that Aurus was in front of the beam.

    Fortunately, Aurus had a n in mind tobat against the beam, activating his own barrier skill without hesitation, allowing him to be the focus of the beam, saving the others from the force of the beam. Of course, he could not hold on for long since he was pretty much fighting against the power of a Pseudo-Animate after calcting the strength it exerted on him.

    And so, he decided to fight against the attack¡­with an attack of his own.

    ¡°[Nine Realms¡¯ Myriad Spellswords]¡­¡±

    In that instant, a de that was slightly harder than the size of his body had conjured over him, before emanating an aura of the underworld not long after. Eventually, the aura of the underworld emanating from the de had reached a tipping point, prompting Aurus to use it to sh at the beam.

    ¡°[Sword of Pride].¡±

    Whoosh!

    In an instant, the de had shed the beam in two parts¡­then four¡­then eight. The de shed multiple times before dissipating into thin air, reducing the size and energy of the beam until it had be negligible. Unfortunately, due to the beam being cut into smaller beams, that meant that the multiple beams had scattered throughout the hall. Fortunately, almost all of the members of the alliance were equipped with apetent defensive skill, allowing them tank the beams that had lost a lot of its energy.

    And so, with that, the Tempest Branch Alliance had survived the beam that aimed to wipe all of them out.

    Whoosh!

    Aurus teleported back to Herellia¡¯s side after cutting the beam into multiple smaller beams, slightly chuckling at the aura of stupefaction radiating from Herellia. To snap Herellia from this stupefaction, Aurus said, ¡°We can¡¯t have our leader show her full strength at the very start now, can we?¡±

    ¡°¡­¡± In response, Herellia remained silent, her mind in slight disbelief at the power Aurus just showed. In her mind, that level of power had already exceeded her previous peak of strength, making Herellia wonder inwardly as to how much Aurus had improved inbat power after evolving to S-grade Inanimate.

    ¡­

    Seeing that the beam he shot out could not eradicate the Tempest Branch Alliance, rather than get angry, Horell smiled inwardly, muttering to himself, ¡°It seems Chonk is going to have to sacrifice a lot of troops for this war, unlike the previous two.¡±

    Nevertheless, his external expression was still angry, radiating an aura of regret as he turned to look at Chonk, who was now at the very back of the army. Maintaining a respectful tone, he then said, ¡°Master, Code 11 has been initiated. Unfortunately, Code 11 was unable to wipe out the Tempest Branch Alliance. Should we proceed with Code 15?¡±

    Chonk, who was on the receiving end of Horell¡¯s question, pondered over Horell¡¯s suggestion for a bit, before opening his mouth to say, ¡°Save Code 15 forter. Unlike the two previous alliances, they seem to have a more intelligent leader. We should gauge their overall strength first. Tell 10 willing Inanimates to form a team, their mission to find out the strength of the members of the Tempest Branch Alliance.¡±

    ¡°Got it,¡± Horell replied respectfully to Chonk, before asking all of the Inanimates in Chonk¡¯s army on who was willing to be part of the first team that would fight against the alliance.

    ¡­

    While that was happening on the opposing side, the Tempest Branch Alliance was in a state of solemnity, with each and every member filled with the intent to help the alliance out.

    ¡°Initiate Code 5. Buff everyone¡¯s abillities up.¡± Afterposing herself from the shock of Aurus¡¯ improvement, Herellia decided to make sure that every alliance member was at their peak condition. She was also doing this in the case that Chonk decided to have everyone in his army charge towards the alliance.

    ¡°Leader, I think you should look at the opposing side.¡± While Herellia wasmanding the members in an efficient manner, telling those who were injured to be healed and buffing everyone¡¯s abilities up, a member came close to her and said.

    ¡°Hm?¡± This attracted Herellia¡¯s attention, prompting her to look at the opposing side with a bit of silence. Seeing what the other side had done, Herellia pondered for a bit before shouting, ¡°Everyone, listen up!¡±

    This shout attracted the attention of all the alliance members, even attracting Aurus¡¯ attention as well. With all of their attention towards Herellia, she continued to speak.

    ¡°The other side has sent a party of 10 towards our alliance, probably with the intent to gauge our strength.¡±

    ¡°Now, we can¡¯t let them move arrogantly in front of our alliance, right?¡±

    ¡°We¡¯ll send a party of 10 in response to what they¡¯ve done. To make them think that we¡¯re weaker than they thought, we¡¯ll be sending 10 normal members of the alliance.¡±

    ¡°Of course, one member shall be the leader of this small party. Would anyone like to volunteer?¡±

 Chapter 165: A Small Skirmish

    Chapter 165: A Small Skirmish

    ¡°Would anyone like to volunteer?¡± At the very instant Herellia finished asking this question to the normal members of the alliance, without hesitation, all of the normal members stepped forward in front of Herellia, wanting to be one of the first volunteers for the war.

    Normally, when Animates would ask other Animates to volunteer to act as bait or act as reconnaissance in the middle of a war, it would take quite a long time for that to happen since Animates prioritized their own benefits rather than the benefits everyone could get. As for Inanimates, it was quite the opposite, with everyone wanting to volunteer at any chance they could.

    They did not do this because they had the resolve to die, but rather, it was because their souls were formed while they were enhancing their power. This meant that their souls were not tainted with corrupt ideas, unlike Animates, who had grown up in a world filled with corrupt ideas. This meant that they volunteered with the purpose of helping everyone rather than helping themselves.

    Unfortunately, since all of the normal members were volunteering, this meant that Herellia had to choose from a couple hundred members, thinking up of an ideal party that would allow them to attack, defend, and heal when necessary. Eventually, Herellia had chosen 10 members out of the couple hundred members wanting to volunteer, telling them to fall in line in front of her.

    After sweeping through the 10 members in front of her, she then said, ¡°I¡¯ve told you the purpose of having you 10 in front of me a while ago. You shall form a party of 10 and make the other party that¡¯sing here think that we¡¯re weaker than we actually are.¡±

    She then continued, ¡°In other words, you have to limit your damage output as much as possible. You could also kill one or two members of their party. Make sure to never exceed that number though. What¡¯s most important though is your safety. If you think one of the members in the party will die soon, retreat as fast as possible.¡±

    ¡°And with that out of the way¡­¡± While saying this, Herellia focused her field of vision towards a decently sized tree. She then said, ¡°Since you¡¯re the sole healer of the party, you shall be themander. Is that alright with you, Verutia?¡±

    ¡°Yes, leader.¡± Hearing Herellia¡¯s request, Verutia epted without hesitation. Nevertheless, this was the first time Verutia was put into a position like this, emanating an aura of slight nervousness as she epted Herellia¡¯s request. She was going to make sure that she¡¯ll do her best to follow Herellia¡¯s conditions amidst her nervousness.

    Herellia then radiated an aura of slight happiness before using a red tendril to point towards the opposing party that was getting closer in the distance. She then said, ¡°Well then, I wish all of you the very best of luck. Make sure to not die.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll try to make sure,¡± Verutia responded to Herellia¡¯s words before looking at the other members of the party she was about to lead. Suppressing her feelings of nervousness, she then said to them, ¡°We depart!¡±

    Whoosh!

    Not long after, a hexagonal formation appeared in front of the entrance of the main hall. This hexagonal formation consisted of 3 tanks at the front, 2 attackers and 2 buffers at the middle, as well as an attacker, an illusionist, and a healer at the back. After making sure that everyone was in proper formation, Verutia, the sole healer at the back,manded the formation to move forward, setting off for the mission Herellia gave them.

    ¡­

    As he watched the party Herellia just sent move towards the opposing party, Aurus could not help but look at Herellia and ask, ¡°Are you confident that they¡¯ll make it back safely?¡±

    ¡°Mm,¡± Herellia responded as an aura of affirmation radiated from her. She then said, ¡°Although they¡¯re normal members of the alliance, all of the members I chose for the party are still peak level X-grade Inanimates. Anyways, it seems something is bothering you.¡±

    ¡°Well¡­¡± Aurus pondered over how he was going to word the thought in his mind without making Herellia seem stupid. Eventually, he decided to just be straightforward, saying, ¡°To be honest, I think they¡¯ll give off the idea that our alliance is far stronger than Chonk and his army would think.¡±

    ¡°Eh?¡± Herellia looked back at Aurus in slight curiosity and asked, ¡°Why do you think so?¡±

    ¡°They have equipment sets on.¡±

    ¡°Ah.¡± This sentence alone made Herellia realize that she should have told them to remove their equipment sets before they left to head for the opposing party. ¡°Fuck.¡±

    Not long after that, she thought of sending a thread of energy to Verutia to tell her that they should remove their equipment sets, but she could not help but think that the opposing party was far stronger than the party she just sent out. In the end, she let out a sigh and muttered to herself, ¡°I hope Verutia follows my words as close as possible.¡±

    ¡­

    A few minutes have passed since Chonk¡¯s army and the Tempest Branch Alliance had sent out small parties. At this moment, the two small parties were already facing one another in the middle of therge space that was cleared out for this war. On one side was the party sent out by Chonk¡¯s army, wanting to gauge the strength of the Tempest Branch Alliance. Each and every member of this party radiated an aura that would usually instill fear in normal X-grade Inanimates.

    As for the other side, it was the party sent out by Herellia, which consisted of normal members of the alliance. Unfortunately, due to their affiliation to the alliance, as well as the equipment sets they were wearing, instead of giving off the impression that they were weak members of the alliance, the impression they gave to the opposing party was a party that consisted of demons that could easily kill one of them with one skill. The aura each member gave off was stronger than the aura radiated by a member of the other party by onefold.

    Nevertheless, even though they were up against a party that seemed to be stronger than they thought, the members of the opposing party mustered their courage, taking the initiative to attack the alliance party. The leader of the opposing party, who was at the rear of their formation, shouted, ¡°Attackers, use your ultimate move!¡±

    ¡°[Jade Wind de]!¡±

    ¡°[Grand me Burst]!¡±

    ¡°[Noxious Domain]!¡±

    ¡°[Azure sh]!¡±

    ¡°[My Strongest Move]!¡±

    At the very instant the opposing party told their attackers to attack, Verutia, who led the alliance party, could not help but push her soul to its limits, thinking as to how they would retaliate from this attack without making the other party think that they were incredibly strong. Eventually, a thought came to Verutia¡¯s soul as she hastilymanded, ¡°Buffers, increase tanks¡¯ defense. Tanks, use reflect skill!¡±

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    Like clockwork, the two buffers in Verutia¡¯s party hastily activated their spells to enhance the defense of the three tanks at the front of the party¡¯s formation. Not long after, the tanks activated their reflect skills, covering the three tanks in a faint yet visible barrier of energy surrounding their bodies.

    ¡°With this move I did, I¡¯m sure they¡¯ll think we can¡¯t attack well,¡± Verutia thought to herself, confident that this decision of hers was the best move she could do. Unfortunately, it was going to severely backfire at them.

    Bang! Bang! Bang!

    At the instant the attacks sent out by the opposing party had collided with the barriers of the tanks of Verutia¡¯s party, it had been reflected back towards the opposing party. Noticing this, the opposing party did not be flustered that the attacks were reflected back at them since they had three strong tanks that could defend against these reflected attacks. Unfortunately for them, rather than move in a path that was on a collision course with the tanks, these reflected attacks followed a path that aimed for the attackers that sent out the attacks in the first ce.

    The leader of the opposing party noticed this and told the attackers to run for their lives, while concurrently telling the tanks to block the reflected attacks¡¯ path from hitting the attackers.

    Bang!

    Although the tanks were able to defend against the attacks, the damage they received from the reflected attacks was more than they had expected, putting the three tanks they had in a critical condition. In exchange, they were able to save three attackers from getting hit with what seemed to be a stronger version of their attacks. Unfortunately, this meant that two attackers were not spared by the reflected attacks, turning them into bits and pieces in an instant, rendering them dead.

    ¡°¡­¡± The leader of the opposing party was at a loss for words. It did not expect that the attack sent back at them would have their damage intensified that it would severely injure their tanks and kill some of their attackers. At this moment, it could not help but look at the party in front of them from a new perspective, a perspective that told it that any move they made would undoubtedly kill one or two members from their army.

    ¡°¡­¡± On the other hand, Verutia was also at a loss for words from the conclusion of the party¡¯s first move. She expected that the reflected attack would be easily dispelled by the tanks of the opposing party. She did not expect that the reflected attacks would actually have minds of their own and target the attackers that sent the attacks at them in the first ce. She also did not expect the power of the reflected attacks to be increased, increasing to a level that two attackers from the other party were killed while three tanks were severely injured.

    ¡°Fuck.¡± The leader of the opposing party, as well as Verutia, muttered to themselves at the same time, wondering as to how they were going to continue with their missions. From the conclusion of the first move between them, it seemed that they had already failed the missions given to them.

    After a moment of idleness between the two parties, the leader of the opposing party shouted all of a sudden.

    ¡°We¡¯re retreating! This is enough information!¡±

    Whoosh!

    Not long after saying those words, all of the surviving members of the opposing party, as well as the severely injured ones, tried to make their way back to Chonk¡¯s army as fast as possible. Unfortunately for them, it seemed that this retreat they made would be their final move for Chonk¡¯s army.

    ¡°If they go back, they tell others that alliance is very strong¡­¡± Verutia could not help but think of the consequences once she let them get away. What she expected was that the skirmish between their parties wouldst for far longer, allowing her party to look weak and give off the impression that they were weaker than they actually are. She tried to ponder as to why their counterattack had a result like this. In the end, she had no idea what the reason was after pondering over it for quite some time.

    Since pondering over the reason seemed to be useless, Verutia decided to break the goals Herellia gave them to arrive at a conclusion that was around the same as what Herellia wanted. She thought of making sure that everyone from the other party was killed, allowing the opposing army to think that the alliance was strong, but did not know how strong they were. Continuing along this train of thought, she had a thought that this would allow more members of the opposing army to be killed off, increasing the advantage the alliance had.

    In the end, she decided to follow through with this thought,manding the buffers to enhance the attack speed, as well as the attack power of the attackers. Not long after that, shemanded the attackers to attack with their strongest move while shemanded the illusionist to envelop the opposing party in an illusion.

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    And just like that, the remaining members of the opposing party had been wiped out from the surface of Erudinia, falling into an illusion that made them stay in ce, bing target practice for the attackers of Verutia¡¯s party, easily killing all of them with a few skills. What remained from these members of the opposing party were the bits and pieces that used to make up their body, making Verutia, who looked at these remains for a bit, feel a bit guilty.

    Nevertheless, she still had Herellia¡¯s mission in mind, though she had to think up of apromise. After making sure that the opposing party was eradicated for good, Verutia told the party to head back to the alliance base, with Verutia thinking up of methods as to how she would exin this to Herellia along the way.

    ¡­

    Around ten minutes had already passed since Horell had sent out a party to gauge the strength of the alliance. Seeing as none of the members of the opposing party hade back yet, he decided to spread his energy towards the area where the energy of the party he sent wasst sensed. At the very instant he had sensed the energy of the party he sent, he could not help but be shocked inwardly as he muttered to himself, ¡°To think that the alliance has the firepower to actually kill 10 members of Chonk¡¯s army without a problem¡­¡±

    While pondering as to how this became the case, a certain figure could not help but pop up in his mind, making him radiate an aura of excitement, which he hurriedly suppressed. Nheless, this did not stop him from asking himself, ¡°Did Aurus make all of this possible?¡±

    If Horell knew that Aurus had only given the alliance a single trump card instead of multiple ones, he would definitely wonder as to how he had increased the power of the alliance with just one trump card, as well as wonder how deep Aurus has hidden his true power.

    ¡°Well then, I should tell this to Chonk.¡± After pondering over the possible methods as to how Aurus increased the strength of the alliance, Horell made his way towards Chonk and said, ¡°The party we sent has been eradicated by the Tempest Branch Alliance.¡±

    ¡°What?¡± Hearing Horell¡¯s words, Chonk could not help but be in disbelief. Remembering how he had easily destroyed the two previous alliances, he could not help but think as to what set the Tempest Branch Alliance apart from the other alliances in terms ofbat power.

    ¡°Is this true?¡± Wondering if he had heard wrong, Chonk asked Horell again, to which Horell replied, ¡°Yes, Master. I just investigated a while ago. Only the remains of the members could be sensed.¡±

    ¡°¡­¡± Chonk remained silent from Horell¡¯s reply, pondering over what the army¡¯s next move would be. While doing so, he could not help but think to himself, ¡®This is the first time I¡¯ve made moves greater than two. It seems the alliance actually has enough power to fight against my army.¡±

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡± Eventually, Chonk made a decision in his mind. He looked at Horell in front of him and said, ¡°The alliance might be thinking that we would send more parties to gauge their strength, which would allow them to gain an advantage.¡±

    ¡°With that idea in mind, initiate Code 2,¡± Chonk continued, to which an aura of slight fear radiated from Horell before responding.

    ¡°Yes, Master.¡±

 Chapter 166: Unexpected Betrayal

    Chapter 166: Unexpected Betrayal

    While Chonk was talking with Horell about their next move, the party sent out by the Tempest Branch Alliance had just returned to the alliance base, with the leader of the party hastily making her way to where Herellia was. At this moment, Herellia was currently talking with the Executive level and Pir level members of the alliance, wondering as to whether they should deploy one of the defensive trump cards they have in order to be ready against sudden attacks.

    This, in turn, meant that it took a while for the leader of the party, whose name was Verutia, to actually speak with Herellia since she was just a normal member. The Tempest Branch Alliance followed quite a strict hierarchy, only being able to talk with members of a higher position when permitted. Fortunately, while Herellia was talking with those members at the Executive and Pir level, Aurus noticed Verutia, who was just waiting for Herellia to finish her talk.

    ¡°Yo Herellia.¡± Without a care for what Herellia was talking about with the others, Aurus interrupted her from continuing her conversation. This easily attracted her attention, albeit making her slightly frown as she asked, ¡°What is it? I hope it¡¯s important or el¡ª¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s very important,¡± Aurus interrupted her from continuing any further. He then formed a tendril that pointed towards Verutia as he continued, ¡°The party you sent hase back. Don¡¯t you think the information they have is more important than the thing you were talking about with the others?¡±

    Focusing her field of vision towards where Aurus was pointing, Herellia was able to see Verutia, who was inwardly thankful for Aurus since that meant she was finally able to talk to the alliance leader. As for Herellia, after noticing Verutia, she looked back at Aurus and said, ¡°I apologize for being slightly angry a while ago. Anyways, can you handle the conversation I was having with the Executive and Pir level members? It¡¯s about a defensive trump card in case of sudden attacks.¡±

    ¡°Got it,¡± Aurus epted Herellia¡¯s request, leaving Herellia for herself as he said, ¡°Make sure you obtain a lot of information from her.¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t worry,¡± Herellia radiated an aura of slight happiness before excusing herself from the members she was talking to a while ago, making her way to where Verutia was. At the very instant Herellia had arrived in front of Verutia, the first thing Verutia did was greet her properly, saying, ¡°I greet alliance leader.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry I made you wait.¡± After hearing Verutia¡¯s greeting, Herellia could not help but feel slightly bad, apologizing to her. ¡°Did I make you wait that long?¡±

    ¡°Not very long,¡± Verutia replied to Herellia¡¯s question, before adding, ¡°Also, I bring results from the mission.¡±

    ¡°Yeah, I know,¡± Herellia said as an aura of affirmation radiated from her. She then asked, ¡°So, what happened?¡±

    ¡°First off, let me say to alliance leader, I am very sorry,¡± Verutia replied to Herellia¡¯s question with this statement, slightly confusing thetter as to why she would say sorry to her. Not long after, Verutia went silent for a bit before telling Herellia the results of the mission. After hearing Verutia talk about the results, it was then that Herellia understood why she said sorry to her.

    ¡°Result of mission is as follows: The party sent by alliance leader made it back safely. No member from party was injured. On the other hand, the opposing party was killed. No member from opposing party was spared from destruction.¡±

    ¡°Could you tell me as to why this was the case?¡± Herellia asked Verutia, although she had an idea as to why that was the case. Nevertheless, she wanted to be sure that her idea was correct.

    It did not take Verutia that long to respond, replying with, ¡°My party members stronger than expected. Even we did not attack back, we used reflect skill to reflect attacks shot at us. I don¡¯t know why reflected attacks became stronger and killed the members of opposing party. But since opposing party was running away, I decided to tell party members to make sure no one from opposing party is left alive.¡±

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡± Herellia pondered over Verutia¡¯s words for a bit, finally understanding what was going on in Verutia¡¯s mind while she was fighting against the opposing party. Not only that, Verutia¡¯s answer even solidified the idea in her mind, leading her to say to Verutia, ¡°Alright, that will be all for now. Good work. You may leave.¡±

    ¡°Yes, leader.¡± After hearing that she could finally leave, the feeling of nervousness Verutia felt a while ago was finally gone, allowing her to be at ease while the members of the party she was in a while ago came up to her and asked how it went. With an aura of slight happiness radiating from her, Verutia told her party members, ¡°Alliance leader is not mad, though I don¡¯t have idea why. At least we¡¯re not punished.¡±

    ¡­

    Just as Verutia had told her party members that the alliance leader wasn¡¯t mad at them, on the opposing army¡¯s side, Horell had made his way towards a certain portion of the army, meeting up with what seemed a few Inanimates that radiated eerie auras. These eerie auras made the other Inanimates stay a fair distance away from them, but this did not stop them from knowing what these Inanimates could do.

    These few Inanimates were Inanimates specially trained by Chonk for a special purpose. This special purpose was rted to the Code 2 Chonk was talking with Horell about a while ago. As Horell got closer to these Inanimates, he could not help but feel ufortable once he entered the radius of the aura emanating from them. Nevertheless, this was his master¡¯s orders, so he had to follow.

    Enduring the weird feeling as he moved, he eventually made his way towards thergest branch among the branches that radiated the same eerie aura. What set this branch apart from the other branches was not only by its size, but by its color and design as well, taking on a dark hue while being covered in silver engravings. As for the other branches, it was either one of the two, taking on a dark hue, or being covered in smaller silver engravings.

    Coming face to face with thisrge branch, Horell then said, ¡°Master told me that we¡¯re going to initiate Code 2.¡±

    In response, an aura of slight shock radiated from therge branch as it replied back, ¡°Seriously? We¡¯re actually going to initiate Code 2? Didn¡¯t Master not use Code 2 for the two previous alliances?¡±

    ¡°Master¡¯s words.¡± Horell made a shrugging movement with his ethereal body before continuing, ¡°Either way, the alliance we¡¯re up against is stronger than you¡¯d think. You better be careful when choosing the members you possess.¡±

    Since Horell was basically the leader of the Inanimates, these words of concern could not help but make therge branch more vignt as it replied, ¡°Alright. If it¡¯s just as you say, then we¡¯ll take great precaution.¡±

    ¡°I wish you good luck, Reinvor,¡± Horell replied to therge branch¡¯s words before turning around to head towards the front of the army. While he left, Reinvor, therge branch, could not help but let out a sigh as he looked at the branches around him. Not long after, a slightly ted expression radiated from all of them as Reinvor said to himself, ¡°It¡¯s been a while since I was able to use Code 2. To think that another chance hase.¡±

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    Not long after, these branches started to hover before making their way to Reinvor¡¯s body. Soon after, these branches were absorbed by Reinvor¡¯s body, as if they were part of his body in the first ce. In fact, that was indeed the case. Reinvor was told by Chonk to make the other parts of the army think that Code 2 constituted of many Inanimates, rather a single Inanimate. Either way, since he was about to use Code 2, he did not have to set up a facade anymore, gradually hovering off the ground before turning himself invisible.

    Whoosh!

    He then started to make his way towards the Tempest Branch Alliance without attracting the attention of the members of Chonk¡¯s army, nor the attraction of the alliance he was trying to get close to. Nevertheless, this did not stop him from softlyughing.

    ¡°Hehehe¡­¡±

    ¡°[Code 2: Unexpected Betrayal]¡­¡±

    ¡°Begin!¡±

    ¡­

    While Reinvor was making his way towards the alliance, Herellia made her way back to where Aurus was, with Aurus informing her of the decisions he had made with the Executive and Pir level members before letting Herellia continue where he had left off. It took a few more minutes for Herellia to finish her discussion,ing to a unanimous agreement with the alliance members she was talking to, with them hastily making their moves at the instant the discussion was finished.

    On the other hand, after finishing the discussion, Herellia made his way towards Aurus, who was currently fiddling with a few things in his system. Seeing this, Herellia used a red tendril to attract Aurus¡¯ attention, prompting Aurus to close the system before turning around to look at who tapped on him. Noticing that it was Herellia, Aurus then said, ¡°What¡¯s up?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ve already obtained the information from Verutia¡¯s party,¡± Herellia answered Aurus¡¯ question, before proceeding to tell him the things Verutia told her without concealing anything. After that, she then asked him, ¡°I¡¯m pretty sure you know what Verutia was aiming for with her move.¡±

    ¡°Yeah, I do.¡± Aurus radiated an aura of affirmation as he continued, ¡°By killing all of the members of the opposing party, Chonk¡¯s army would think that we are strong, but they don¡¯t know how strong exactly, which would lead them to sending more parties we could possibly kill.¡±

    ¡°Mhm.¡± Herellia radiated an aura of affirmation as she knew Aurus was right. She then asked, ¡°Do you think they¡¯ll move just like how Verutia thinks they¡¯ll move?¡±

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡± Aurus pondered for a few seconds, thinking up of various conclusions before replying to her question.

    ¡°I think the chance of them doing that would be highly unlikely, ¡°Aurus said to Herellia before adding, ¡°Chonk is an Animate. He could think up of multiple countermeasures. If he was still an Inanimate though, there might be a high chance that he would actually do what Verutia wanted him to do.¡±

    ¡°You thought so as well?¡± Herellia said in slight shock before adding, ¡°But yeah, I agree with what you say. Looking at this war from a neutral perspective, an Animate would surely create tons of countermeasures for these types of things. Inanimates have a limit as to how far they could think¡­unless they¡¯re blessed by a god.¡±

    ¡°Well, of course,¡± Aurus radiated an aura of slight happiness, which turned into seriousness not long after as he said, ¡°Anyways, we¡¯ll have to wait and see what move Chonk would do next.¡±

    ¡°Ahh! I¡¯m sick of this!¡± Just as Aurus and Herellia were about to look out of the entrance of the main hall, their attentions were attracted by a loud scream from a certain portion of the main hall. In fact, this loud scream had attracted the attention of all of the alliance members, prompting them to look at a decentlyrge branch with blue engravings on his body.

    Seeing as it had gotten the attention of everyone, it then continued to scream, ¡°Why do we fight for the alliance? Don¡¯t all of you fear the fact that you could die from this war?¡±

    Not long after, another scream could be heard from another part of the main hall, this timeing from a sapling that was of a dark hue. ¡°That¡¯s right! Although we¡¯re fighting for the survival of the alliance. In actuality, it¡¯s just a way for the higher positioned members to keep their positions while us normal members sacrifice ourselves for the alliance!¡±

    Continuing where the sapling left off, a weird looking branch started to shout from another part of the main hall, saying, ¡°Us normal members should band together and let the higher positioned members know that we¡¯re not some sort of sacrifice! We¡¯re not some sort of sacrificialmb, ready toy their lives for everyone at any time!¡±

    ¡°Yeah! Let them feel our wrath! Bring down the Pirs to a lower position!¡±

    ¡°Oust the leader from her position! Let a new leader lead the alliance!¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m screaming for no apparent reason, but yeah! Change!¡±

    A few secondster, a few more alliance members started to scream out loud, attracting the attention of all of the members of the alliance. In response to this, Aurus and Herellia could not help but feel that something was off. A while ago, the alliance members were harmoniously working together, only for a few members to startining? Was it because of the nervousness they felt knowing that they could die at any time?

    Looking at each other in slight confusion, Aurus asked Herellia, ¡°The members that shouted out theirints¡­were they always like this?¡±

    ¡°No, not at all,¡± Herellia radiated an aura of disapproval. ¡°In fact, those members are the most cooperative members we have in the alliance.¡±

    ¡°Oh, really?¡± After hearing Herellia¡¯s reply, Aurus had instantly gotten to a conclusion, connecting Verutia¡¯s mission to what was happening right now.

    ¡°It seems¡­¡±

    ¡°We have a rat on the loose.¡±

 Chapter 167: Why Not Retaliate?

    Chapter 167: Why Not Retaliate?

    A couple of minutes before what seemed to be an uprising urred within the main hall of the Tempest Branch Alliance, an invisible branch gradually made his way towards a part of the alliance¡¯s base wherein he would not be seen that easily even with his invisibility skill activated. He also took into consideration his need to see the targets he had to possess.

    This invisible branch was none other than Reinvor, who had been tasked by Horell to initiate Code 2 on the Tempest Branch Alliance. At this moment, he could not help but radiate an aura of tion after knowing that he could show his abilities to Chonk, which would possibly allow him to be promoted to a higher position in the army. Nevertheless, since this part of the mission needed him to not be noticed by the alliance, he hastily suppressed his aura before focusing attention on the members of the Tempest Branch Alliance.

    ¡°Hmm¡­to make Code 2 sessful, taking Horell¡¯s words into consideration, it seems I need to possess around 5 members to incite a feeling of unrest amongst the members of the alliance,¡± Reinvor muttered to himself, calcting the optimal number of beings he had to possess and take on their actions in order for an uprising to happen.

    Not long after, he looked at the auras of each and every member in the alliance, since his skill would not activate if the aura radiated by the being he was going to possess was many times higher than his aura. While doing so, he could not help but be shocked once he found two beings in the center of the alliance¡¯s hall, which were radiating an aura that exceeded most of the auras radiated by those surrounding them. After noticing this, Reinvor could not help but release a bit of sap in fear, muttering to himself, ¡°If they find out where I¡¯m controlling the victims, I¡¯m seriously going to be screwed.¡±

    He then went ahead andposed himself, adjusting his soul to its peak condition before settling on five members that seemed to hold a bit of authority amongst the members of the alliance. Not long after, he decided to possess another member just in case, but his grasp over thisst member was a bitcking whenpared to the previous five.

    ¡°[Puppetry Arts: Instigation]!¡±

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    After saying the name of the ability, six threads, that was the same color as his body, shot out of his body as each and every thread made their way towards the six members he had chosen to possess, with each of them radiating a slightly different aura after being possessed.

    Noticing this, Reinvor used his soul to its limits, returning the auras of the six to what they were before, waiting to make a move when the situation seemed right.

    ¡°Code 2 has finally begun.¡±

    ¡­

    Tempest Cliff, Tempest Branch Alliance.

    Aurus and Herellia looked at each other with an aura of slight confusion radiating from their bodies. They then looked at the members of the alliance thatined all of a sudden, wondering as to why they only started toin just now. Not only were Aurus and Herellia looking at the alliance members whoined with slight confusion, even the members who were not affected by Reinvor¡¯s skill looked at these alliance members with slight confusion.

    ¡°It seems we have a rat on the loose,¡± Aurus could not help but mutter to Herellia after asking a few questions to Herellia regarding these members. While these alliance members noticed that everyone was looking at them with auras of confusion, prompting to band together and continueining, Herellia ignored this and looked at Aurus before asking, ¡°It seems so. Did Chonk n this before the war started?¡±

    ¡°It could be nned before the war, or it was done in retaliation to what we did to the small party they sent,¡± Aurus responded to Herellia¡¯s question, before adding, ¡°But by the looks of it, it seems their n is not working. What did you do to achieve this level of solidarity, Herellia?¡±

    ¡°Uh¡­¡± Herellia pondered over Aurus¡¯ question for a while before responding with, ¡°To be honest, I did nothing at all. I just treated each member kindly, gave them attention for their feats, and so on.¡±¡±Yeah, that makes sense,¡± Aurus said before looking at the alliance members, that wereining a while ago, finally congregate towards a certain portion of the main hall in order for their voices to be heard louder.

    ¡°We don¡¯t deserve to be used as cannon fodder! We¡¯re more than that!¡±

    ¡°Yeah! We still have a long life ahead of us!¡±

    ¡°We should band together and oust the leader from her position! Who¡¯s with me?!¡±

    ¡°As long as we band together, we can do anything!¡±

    ¡°Come join us for a good cause, my fellow members. We¡¯re going to change the position of the alliance for the better good!¡±

    ¡°Fuck yeah! Change!¡±

    Listening to their words one more time, Aurus could not help but look at Herellia and ask, ¡°So¡­what are we going to do them? Just let themin until they get sick of it?¡±

    ¡°Since it has something to do with Chonk, thoseints won¡¯t stop until the opinion of the other alliance members change,¡± Herellia replied to his question, pondering a bit not long after. After that, she added, ¡°Then again, we have to make sure that it¡¯s a third party doing this, and not their actual feelings. If it¡¯s their actual feelings, then I¡¯ll be the one to handle that.¡±

    ¡°How are you going to do¡ª¡± Just as Aurus was about to ask how Herellia was going to make sure that a third party was making those alliance membersin, a certain skill shed in Aurus¡¯ mind before adding, ¡°Ah, right. Go ahead.¡±

    Whoosh!

    At that instant, Herellia hastily made her way towards theining alliance members and radiated her aura at its limit, making those near her feel stifled. Fortunately, this feeling was only faint among the members that were near his aura. Her true focus was the six alliance members who wereining, focusing her aura towards them with the intent of making theirints stop.

    Surprisingly, that method worked, making the six alliance members stopining. In response, all of the alliance members that were looking at the six thatined could not help but let out sighs of relief as they continued on with what they were supposed to do so, knowing very well that their alliance leader would handle this without a problem.

    ¡°[Eyes of Undeceiving Truth],¡± Herellia muttered to herself, before an aura, that seemed to make everyone feel that every lie would be uncovered by her, radiated from her body, enveloping the six in this aura.

    Not long after enveloping the six in that aura, she asked them, ¡°Tell me. Are these your true feelings?¡±

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    Although the six did not reply due to the overbearing aura pressing on them, the aura they radiated alone was enough of a reply for her, retracting the skill, as well as the aura she was radiating before heading back to where Aurus was. At the time she had made her way back to where Aurus was, the six alliance members continued toin once more. This time though, all of the alliance members ignored their cries, continuing on with what they were tasked to do.

    Nheless, it was quite jarring to the sense of hearing of the Inanimates, prompting Herellia to shout, ¡°Could anyone seal their ability to speak for a while? It¡¯s quite annoying.¡±

    Whoosh!

    Not long after, six silver threads of energy made their way towards the six alliance members, abruptly stopping theints that came out of them. Although they radiated auras of shock and disbelief, one could still sense a small hint of relief from their auras.

    Wondering where the silver threads came from, Herellia looked around, only to find out that these threads came from Aurus as a small ball of energy gradually dissipated into thin air. Just before Herellia could ask as to what that skill was, Aurus was the first one to talk, saying with an aura of slight happiness surrounding him, ¡°That¡¯ll be a secret for now.¡±

    ¡°Anyways, what should be our next move against this attack?¡± Not long after, Aurus asked Herellia, to which she replied, ¡°I have no idea. I would¡¯ve been able to retaliate if it was a physical attack against our members, but this is the first time I¡¯ve experienced an attack such as this.¡±

    Seeing as Herellia did not have any n to retaliate against this move made by Chonk¡¯s army, Aurus could not help but radiate an aura of slight tion as he said, ¡°What if I told you¡­I have a way to retaliate against that?¡±

    ¡°You do?¡± Herellia could not help but radiate an aura of slight curiosity from Aurus¡¯ words before adding, ¡°What is it?¡±

    ¡°Quite simple, really,¡± Aurus replied to Herellia¡¯s question before adding, ¡°If they want to incite public outrage amongst the members of our alliance, then that means we just have to incite public outrage amongst their members as well!¡±

    ¡°¡­¡± Herellia was at a loss for words for quite some time. Eventually, she looked at Aurus with an aura that radiated ¡®As if I haven¡¯t thought of that¡¯ before saying, ¡°Well¡­if we had someone that could do that, I would¡¯ve done it already. No?¡±

    ¡°Well¡­¡± Aurus¡¯ aura of tion around him intensified by quite a bit as he said, ¡°That¡¯s the point. I could do that.¡±

    ¡°Oh,¡± Herellia replied to Aurus¡¯ words as if it was normal, before finally being processed by her mind as she uttered not long after, ¡°Eh?¡±

    ¡°You should¡¯ve told me you could do it in the first ce!¡± After finally processing what Aurus said, Herellia could not help but say to him, to which he replied, ¡°We can¡¯t have our enemy find out everything about us, now can we?¡±

    ¡°Anyways, the inciting public outrage part is still an uncertainty for me, but I¡¯m extremely sure that I can scout out the opposing army and their next ns,¡± Aurus said to Herellia afterward, to which Herellia replied, ¡°Even that is more than enough. Inciting public outrage is a bonus. Other than that, could you go ahead and find out who¡¯s doing that to our members?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll try,¡± Aurus replied before closing his sense of vision, activating his [Unified Soul Control] skill as he manipted half of his soul¡¯s power to manifest outside his body.

    Fwoosh!

    Not long after, a decently sized silver ball appeared on top of his body, which prompted Herellia to ask, ¡°What¡¯s that?¡±

    ¡°A part of my soul,¡± Aurus responded to Herellia¡¯s question before splitting up the silver ball into 8 smaller balls. Due to the fact that the amount of soul power he allocated to this soul vessel he made was far less than the amount he used while he was testing it out, he had a far easier time controlling these 8 balls, allowing them to move in different directions and speeds.

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    Adjusting his mind to the burden of controlling 8 small balls at once, as well as being aware of his original body and clone¡¯s surroundings, Aurus then willed the 8 balls to transform into a smaller size as he manipted the 8 balls to head towards where the opposing army was.

    ¡°Hmm¡­I kind of like the idea of naming skills like these under codes,¡± Aurus could not help but mutter as he opened his sense of vision once more, allowing him to look at three perspectives at once. He then looked at Herellia, who was beside her, and asked, ¡°Don¡¯t you think this deserves to be called a code?¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s up to you,¡± Herellia replied before heading towards a certain portion of the main hall. ¡°If you find any results, just send a thread of energy to me. I¡¯ll be discussing Code 5 and Code 7 with the other Pir members. You coulde with me and add a few of your skills to enhance these codes if you want.¡±

    ¡°Sure, I¡¯ll go and join the discussionter,¡± Aurus muttered as he focused on one of the perspectives he could see, which was currently expanding at a fast rate due to himmanding the 8 balls to move outward. He then added, ¡°I¡¯ll just make sure that the balls I sent out won¡¯t get destroyed. Once that¡¯s done, I¡¯ll definitely go and join.¡±

    ¡°Alright then,¡± Herellia radiated an aura of affirmation before leaving Aurus to his own.In response to this, an aura of intense tion radiated from him as he proceeded to think up of a good code number for this skill of his, as well as a good codename.

    ¡°Hmm¡­what would be a good code number and name for this?¡±

    Eventually, Aurus found a suitable code number and name for this skill, muttering to himself, ¡°Since this skill was deployed as retaliation to the unexpected betrayal our alliance has just experienced, that would surely be a good codename! As for the number I have in mind, it would fit as well!¡±

    ¡°Well then. Let¡¯s try saying it.¡±

    ¡°[Code 69: No U]!¡±

    ¡°¡­¡±

    ¡°¡­¡±

    ¡°Okay, that kind of made me cringe.¡±

 Chapter 168: A Reunion with Malicious Intent

    Chapter 168: A Reunion with Malicious Intent

    While Aurus had sent out 8 small balls of his soul towards the territory of the opposing army to retaliate against the move they¡¯ve done, a secret conversation was happening between the two Animates in Chonk¡¯s army, with multiple trees and tall shrubs surrounding them.

    ¡°Thank you foring to meet me,¡± a jade green wolf said with slight respect as a docile looking rabbit made its way through some shrubs, appearing in front of the jade green wolf. This docile looking rabbit had white fur that was slightly dirtied due to the shrubs it had to pass through, but this did not stop the murderous aura that was radiating from its crimson red eyes.

    At this moment, the murderous aura surrounding the rabbit was suppressed to a minimum with a respectful aura was radiating from the rabbit, responding back to the jade green wolf with, ¡°No, thank you. It¡¯s an honor to talk with a Rank 1 Animate.¡±

    ¡°Save the formalities, Chungus. I¡¯ve invited you to fight against the Tempest Branch Alliance, so it would make more sense to pay respect to you, knowing what you can do,¡± the jade green wolf said in response, to which the docile rabbit slightly chuckled.

    This jade green wolf was none other than Chonk, while the docile rabbit was Chungus, the second Animate in Chonk¡¯s army. Although Chonk¡¯s army knew that Chungus was going to help them out in the war against the Tempest Branch Alliance, after seeing that Chungus did not make a move at all, they decided to ignore his presence while still being wary since he was still an Animate.

    In actuality, Chungus being inactive was a facade he put up in order for the army to know what he was actually doing. Chonk invited Chungus to his army for what he was actually doing. It was something Chungus became well-known for, earning him the moniker of ¡®Monarch of Despair¡¯ among animal-type Animates.

    ¡°So¡­how¡¯s the progress with that thing you¡¯re doing?¡± Chonk asked Chungus, to which Chungus replied without hiding anything, ¡°Give me about twenty to thirty minutes more, and I think I¡¯ll have it set up. By then, I think the whole army can just go ahead and attack the alliance without a care for the world.¡±

    ¡°Good to know,¡± Chonk replied to Chungus with slight tion. He then said, ¡°After this war, I¡¯ll make sure to give you my tips on ascending to Rank 1 Animate.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m d you¡¯re still holding up your part of the deal,¡± Chungus said in a slightly happy tone before turning around to head towards a certain direction. Before leaving, Chungus said to Chonk, ¡°Rest assured. You¡¯ll win this war.¡±

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    Not long after, Chonk let out a sigh before muttering, ¡°I hope we do win. If not, I¡¯m very sure it would take me a long time to ascend to Rank 2.¡±

    After that, he put on a solemn andposed expression before heading back to where his army was.

    ¡­

    A couple of minutes have passed since Aurus sent out his 8 soul balls towards the territory of the opposing army. At this moment, the 8 balls had finally arrived above the territory, allowing Aurus to get a bird¡¯s eye view of the opposing army. Although Aurus had already seen the members of the army before in that reconnaissance mission, he could not help but mutter to himself through his original body, ¡°For Inanimates, I still can¡¯t believe they¡¯re that organized.¡±

    From what he could see, Chonk¡¯s army was split into multiple divisions, with each division radiating a different aura, allowing Aurus to get a vague idea of what each division did. Chonk¡¯s army had 7 divisions, with one division being quiterge whenpared to the size of the other divisions. On top of that, this certain division had a certain being Aurus knew leading it.

    ¡°Horell¡­¡± Aurus could not help but mutter as he looked at Horell¡¯s current ethereal form. Although he was quite happy for Horell since he had broken through to the Pseudo-Animate level, he still could not help but have conflicting emotions since he was on Chonk¡¯s army. Even knowing the fact that Horell was actually a double agent sent out by Herellia.

    Nevertheless, since the two sides were at war, Aurus decided to trust Herellia¡¯s words and try to add in Horell to his ns of retaliating against the attack sent by Chonk¡¯s army.

    Whoosh!

    Since he did not want to be found out by some sort of Inanimate that could sense souls, he decided to split up one of the soul balls he sent into a smaller size, reducing the amount of Soul Strength it had before heading towards where Horell was. While he sent this smaller soul ball to Horell, Aurus could not help but ask himself if [Unified Soul Control] would allow him to transmit his voice.In the end, he told himself, ¡°Well, if it doesn¡¯t work, I¡¯ll just use the energy in the soul to form a connection with Horell.¡±

    Whoosh!

    It did not take long for the smaller soul ball to hover beside Horell, with Horell not even noticing the presence of this soul ball at all. Noticing this, Aurus could not help but have malicious thoughts as he secretly made a connection with Horell through [Unified Soul Control] after trying to transmit his voice, which ended up in failure. After making the connection, he then transmitted a huge stream of thoughts towards Horell through [Unified Soul Control], with each thought saying, ¡°Hey! Horell!¡±

    ¡°Uwah?!¡± Horell could not help but mutter in shock, attracting the attention of a few Inanimates behind them, slightly confused as to why theirmander was startled all of a sudden. Fortunately for Aurus, Horell hastilyposed himself, allowing the suspicion of the few Inanimates to die down as he collected his thoughts, finding the voice of those thoughts familiar.

    ¡°Er¡­Aurus?¡± Horell asked in his mind, to which Aurus replied, ¡°Yep. It¡¯s me.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m so d to talk with you again!¡± Hearing that he was talking to Aurus, Horell could not help but radiate an aura of happiness inwardly, only for it to change to sadness in an instant as he continued, ¡°But I left the alliance without letting you know¡­¡±

    ¡°I know the general gist of things through Herellia, so don¡¯t worry,¡± Aurus said after Horell was finished talking. He then added, ¡°Don¡¯t beat yourself up from this. Anyways, I¡¯m kind of curious as to what species you evolved to. Allowing me to know your species might help me out with my n in mind.¡±

    ¡°Give me a second,¡± Horell replied before recalling the name of his current species. After a few secondster, he then told Aurus, ¡°My current species is Mana Spirit. From the name alone, I think you know what I¡¯m capable of.¡±

    ¡°Yeah, that¡¯s more than enough information, thanks,¡± Aurus replied with a tone of slight gratitude. After that was a short silence between the two of them. Fortunately, it did notst long, with Aurus asking, ¡°How strong are the division leaders in Chonk¡¯s army?¡±

    ¡°Hmm¡­excluding me, around Herellia¡¯s level, I guess?¡± Horell replied to Aurus¡¯ question in a slightly doubtful tone before asking, ¡°What n do you have in mind anyway?¡±

    ¡°Well, your army sent out someone who possessed a few members of the alliance, so I¡¯ve decided to retaliate with the same thing, but more potent,¡± Aurus replied, which slightly startled Horell. In his mind, Horell was wondering as to when did Aurus obtain such power.

    ¡°Eh? Can you do that?¡± Horell could not help but ask before adding, ¡°Speaking of which, how are you talking with me right now?¡±

    ¡°Err¡­¡± Aurus pondered over his words for a bit before replying to Horell¡¯s question. ¡°In short, I manifested part of my soul in reality, allowing me to use my soul as reconnaissance, offense, and for misceneous things like talking with you.¡±

    ¡°As for the matter as to whether I can possess other beings with my soul, there¡¯s no better way to know than to try.¡±

    ¡°Heh¡­¡± Although Horell replied with a tone that he understood what Aurus was doing, he still could not help but be shocked at how versatile Aurus¡¯ skillset had be. Back when Aurus entered the Tempest Branch Alliance, he could only cast basic magic and attack with a huge amount of force. But right now, Horell could not believe that his skillset even included the maniption of other beings.

    In the end, he decided to ept that Aurus could do surprising things. Thinking about what to ask next, a thought popped up in his mind, prompting Horell to ask Aurus, ¡°Oh, right. How can I help with your n?¡±

    ¡°What I had in mind was that I¡¯d possess the 6 division leaders with my soul, then have you report this matter to Chonk,¡± Aurus answered Horell¡¯s question before adding, ¡°Since you¡¯re a Pseudo-Animate, Chonk has designated you as the overall leader of the army, right?¡±

    ¡°Mhm,¡± Horell responded with a sound. He then asked, ¡°What would happen after that?¡±

    ¡°After thinking about it for a bit, it could two ways,¡± Aurus replied before adding, ¡°The first conclusion would be that Chonk would go ahead and kill the 6 division leaders that I possessed, leaving the division leaders without a leader for a short bit. If the divisions obtain a recement leader, they would surely be unprepared for the task given to them.¡±

    ¡°And the second?¡± Horell continued to ask.

    ¡°The second conclusion would be that Chonk won¡¯t end up killing the 6 division leaders, just telling them to leave them as is. And that¡¯s where youe in.¡±

    ¡°What do I do by then?¡± Horell asked one more time.

    ¡°You kill them in secret,¡± Aurus let out a malicious chuckle as he replied. ¡°With Chonk not knowing that the division leaders have been killed, he surely wouldn¡¯t put in any recement leaders for the divisions, leaving them in chaos.¡±

    ¡°Although I¡¯m willing to participate in your n,¡± Horell thought that Aurus¡¯ n was a good idea, but he could not help but think about it from another angle. ¡°What if Chonk found out that I killed those 6 division leaders? Wouldn¡¯t he go out and kill me?¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t worry about that,¡± Aurus replied before adding, ¡°I have a trump card that would allow me to protect you without a problem.¡±

    ¡°I see¡­¡± Horell went silent for a bit before a determined aura started to radiate from inside. ¡°I¡¯ll help out then.¡±

    ¡°d to have you onboard,¡± Aurus replied. ¡°I currently have 8 soul balls hovering above the army to act as surveince, so I¡¯ll split them up and use them to possess the 6 division leaders. Speaking of which, do these division leaders have strong souls?¡±

    ¡°Uh¡­¡± Horell was quite shocked that Aurus could do multiple things at once. He could not help but wonder if Aurus was getting confused at this point in time. Nheless, heposed himself and replied, ¡°To be honest, I don¡¯t know. I guess they have a weak soul?¡±

    ¡°Eh, fair enough,¡± Aurus said in response. ¡°And with that, this concludes our conversation for now. I¡¯ll let you know when to move. Don¡¯t act suspicious, okay?¡±

    ¡°As Herellia¡¯s double agent, how could I?¡± Horell lightly chuckled as he answered back. After that, the connection between the two was cut, with Aurus proceeding to split up 6 soul balls into 12 smaller soul balls, with the first half staying where they were. As for the second half, they made their way towards the leaders of the 6 divisions, which increased the burden on Aurus¡¯ mind since he was controlling 15 soul balls simultaneously at this moment.

    Nevertheless, since he was an Inanimate that was more suited to the back, Aurus was at ease, allowing him to put his full focus on controlling these 6 smaller soul balls towards the division leaders. Not long after that, he tried to use [Unified Soul Control] to possess the souls of these division leaders.

    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!

    Surprisingly, the souls of the division leaders were easily possessed, allowing Aurus to control the bodies of these leaders without a problem. He could not help but think that the reason why the possession was easy was that he had higher Soul Strength than the souls of these division leaders. Nevertheless, with the addition of 6 division leaders being possessed, this increased the number of perspectives Aurus could see from his original body to 9. At this moment, he could not help but be confused.

    ¡°As long as I pull this off, this will surely increase the chances of the alliance winning,¡± Aurus muttered to himself, steeling his resolve as he connected with Horell once more.

    ¡°I¡¯ve sessfully possessed the souls of the six division leaders,¡± Aurus said to Horell, which slightly surprised Horell as he said, ¡°That fast?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll go ahead and make a ruckus with these leaders then,¡± Aurus then said to him before adding, ¡°Once these division leaders have caught the attention of most of the army, I hope you go ahead and report this to Chonk.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll make sure to do so,¡± Horell replied before adding, ¡°Trust me on this one.¡±

    ¡°And with that¡­¡± Aurus said with excitement.

    ¡°Operation Reversal is now a go!¡±

    ¡°Operation Reversal? What¡¯s that?¡±

    ¡°The name of the operation I¡¯m doing right now.¡±

    ¡°Oh. Hooray for Operation Reversal!¡±

    ¡°??Let¡¯s go ahead and start.¡±

 Chapter 169: Beryls Aqua Spells

    Chapter 169: Beryl¡¯s Aqua Spells

    While Aurus and Horell were just starting their operation to reduce thebat power of Chonk¡¯s army, with Herellia not knowing the extent of Aurus¡¯ retaliation, a different thing was happening in the Arcana Tower of Seraph Kingdom.

    ¡°[Aqua Sphere]!¡± A young woman shouted these words, which resounded throughout the decently sized room she was in.

    Whoosh!

    Not long after, a singleyered magic circle appeared on top of one of the young woman¡¯s palms, taking on a blue hue as the blue fog, that was covering her body while casting the magic, had made its way towards the magic circle. A few secondster, the blue magic circle shrunk in size as a ball of water gradually manifested on top of the young woman¡¯s palm. Eventually, the blue magic circle had disappeared, leaving a decently sized ball of water hovering over the young woman¡¯s palm, mimicking the natural movements of water¡­

    Until it didn¡¯t.

    Ssh!

    The ball of water had mimicked the natural movement of water for around ten seconds or so until it was abruptly changed into a clockwise movement akin to a raging tsunami. Noticing this, the young woman could not help but let out a sigh as she muttered to herself, ¡°12 seconds, around 7 seconds longer than the previous attempt.¡±

    Fwoosh!

    After muttering those words, she dispelled the water ball she had conjured before making her way towards a chair and a nted table, sitting down as she looked at the thin book on top of the nted table. While looking at it, she could not help but lightly frown as she scratched her head. A few secondster, she said, ¡°ording to this scripture, as long as I mimic the natural movements of water for 30 seconds, that would be enough for me to be considered a master of the [Aqua Sphere] spell. It has given me enough methods to increase the amount of time for me to mimic those movements, but why can¡¯t I seem to hold it for longer?¡±

    Letting out all of her frustrations, she let out a deep sigh before lying down on the nted table, staring at the book by its side as she said to herself, ¡°Calm down. This is just a small trial in the face of bing a stronger God level being. You¡¯ll still have to face multiple trials of power after this.¡±

    Surprisingly, saying these words to herself worked, gradually removing the frown on her face as she sat upright again, muttering, ¡°System, how can I improve my mastery over the [Aqua Sphere] spell?¡±Ding!

    Not long after, a holographic screen appeared in front of her field of vision. On it was the system¡¯s reply to her question. Reading it with a single nce, the young woman could not help but lightly frown as she muttered, ¡°I¡¯d have to buy another scripture in order to extend the time? And it¡¯s a scripture that most Rank 2 Acolytes would kill to get?¡±

    ¡°Haah¡­¡± Closing the holographic screen in front of her, she then squeezed the skin between her eyebrows with two fingers in slight annoyance. After a few seconds, she stood up from her seat and walked towards the door, muttering, ¡°I can be selfish for once, right? Since I¡¯m participating in the war for the throne, Teacher would definitely allow me to buy this scripture, right?¡±

    With that in mind, she then unhesitatingly went out of the room she was in, heading towards the upper floors of the Arcana Tower in order to seek out her teacher.

    This young woman was none other than Erea, while the teacher she was referring to was none other than Dane. It had been a day since the two met up with each other to talk about Erea¡¯s invitation to be a part of the Ninth Prince¡¯s party in the war for the throne. After epting the invitation, Erea told her teacher about the problems she came across while trying to master the [Aqua Sphere] spell she bought to fulfill her teacher¡¯s goals. Being her teacher, Dane told him all he knew regarding the methods to master the spell at a faster rate, even rmending a scripture rted to the [Aqua Sphere] to her, taking into consideration the amount of contribution points she had.

    After that, the meeting between the two ended, with Erea hastily buying the scripture that her teacher told him to buy, reducing the amount of contribution points she had to a double digit number. Nevertheless, the investment was worth it. By the time she had entered her training room and read through the methods written on the scripture once, she was able to mimic the movements of water for 2 seconds. After taking around six hours to digest the information written on the scripture, and look at it from another perspective, she was able to extend this time to 5 seconds.

    As for the current time she had achieved, this was all due to her thinking out of the box, creating her own ways of fusing the multiple methods on the scripture together without them shing. Not only that, but she had also peered through a bit of the scripture¡¯s essence, which might have influenced the time a bit.

    It did not take long for her to reach the upper floors of the Arcana Tower, using a basic movement speed boosting spell on herself. At the moment she had arrived at the floor where her teacher was, she showed a badge that told the ones guarding the floors that she was a disciple of a High Mage at this floor, giving her ess to the floor, allowing her to head into the room that her teacher was usually in.

    Knock. Knock. Knock.

    Arriving in front of the door of her teacher¡¯s room, she listened if there were any sounds in the room for a bit, wondering if there were any other people inside the room. After hearing that there was nothing, she then went ahead and loudly knocked on the door, saying, ¡°Teacher, can Ie in? It¡¯s me, Erea.¡±

    ¡°Ah?! Erea?!¡± Expecting that she would get a normal response from her teacher, what she got instead was her teacher speaking in a surprised tone, as if he never expected that Erea woulde to his room. After that, a small ruckus could be heard happening inside Dane¡¯s room, with the sounds of magic being cast in between. Eventually, a normal response was received by Erea, with Dane clearing his throat as he said, ¡°Alright,e in, my student.¡±

    Although she wondered as to what the ruckus was, Erea shrugged her shoulders before opening the door, allowing her to see her teacher seated on a chair, his appearance akin to that of a schr. But what she did not expect was that, on a chair slightly distant from his teacher¡¯s chair, was a beautiful female mage that wore the same colored robe as her teacher. The female mage¡¯s face was slightly flushed, which made Erea think that the ruckus was due to something indecent.

    Nevertheless, she shrugged this off as she did not want to interfere with her teacher¡¯s business, just as how he did not interfere with his.

    She made her way towards a vacant chair, sitting down on it as a tense atmosphere appeared within Dane¡¯s room. Not long after, as if she could not handle the tense atmosphere, the female mage abruptly stood up and politely bowed in front of Dane, saying, ¡°Thanks for teaching me those things, Danny! If you have anything else you need from me, just ask!¡±

    After that, the female mage scurried off, leaving the two by themselves with an awkward air between them. Dane was the first one to break the silence, awkwardlyughing as he said, ¡°Uh¡­it¡¯s not what you think.¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t really mind it, Teacher,¡± Erea replied to her teacher¡¯s words before adding with a smile, ¡°Teacher is human too, after all.¡±

    Hearing such a response from his student, Dane let out a sigh of relief before clearing his throat while the aura he gave off returned to normal. With a serious yet smiling face, he then asked Erea, ¡°So, what brings you here to my room?¡±

    ¡°Well¡­I bought the scripture just like you said, teacher. That allowed me to mimic the natural movements of water for 12 seconds,¡± Erea replied. She then added, ¡°But for some reason, I feel like that¡¯s the limit of the scripture, not allowing me to extend the time any longer, even though the time needed to be considered a master of the [Aqua Sphere] spell is 30 seconds.¡±

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡± Dane pondered over her words for a bit. A few secondster, he responded with, ¡°Can you show me how much of the [Aqua Sphere] spell you¡¯ve mastered so far? You can also tell me your insights regarding the spell as well.¡±

    ¡°Alright.¡± Erea nodded to her teacher¡¯s words, standing up before a blue fog converged around her body. Not long after, she held up one of her palms as a magic circle appeared on it, with the blue fog converging towards the magic circle not long after.

    ¡°[Aqua Sphere]!¡±

    Whoosh!

    Unlike before while she was in the training room, the speed at which the water ball had manifested was many times quicker, with the magic circle shrinking in an instant, a decently sized water ball recing it soon after. This water ball moved like how water would move if it were floating. Dane then stood up and touched the water ball, seeing the ripples his touch made on the water ball.And then, after some time, the water ball became unstable, abruptly changing its form back to a raging tsunami that circled in one direction. Seeing that, Erea dispelled the spell, looking at her teacher and saying, ¡°Teacher, I think I need to buy another scripture rted to the first scripture if I want to extend the time the [Aqua Sphere] would be like that.¡±

    ¡°What scripture are you nning to buy?¡± Dane asked his student.

    ¡°{Beryl¡¯s Aqua Spells},¡± Erea responded without hesitation.

    ¡°Hoh?¡± Dane raised his eyebrows after hearing the scripture his student suggested to buy. He could not help but ask, ¡°What gave you the idea to think that a scripture like that would help you?¡±

    ¡°Uh¡­¡± Erea pondered over her words for a bit, knowing very well that she can¡¯t say that it was because of the system helping her out. Eventually, fusing together what she knew about the scripture she said, as well as the experience she had while using the scripture her teacher rmended to her, she was able to give out an answer.

    ¡°Well, although {Beryl¡¯s Aqua Spells} is more on the expensive side for someone like me, it would allow me to obtain inspiration from the highly refined spells it has, reducing the mana consumption of [Aqua Sphere], as well as extending the time it could act naturally. Not only that, but it would also allow me to obtain more insight on the other Water-based spells there are, as well as refine it due to my affinity for the four basic elements.¡±

    ¡°So¡­did youe to me because you need contribution points to buy it?¡± Dane pondered over her words and her abrupt appearance in front of him for a bit, replying with this question.

    ¡°Er¡­¡± Erea dawdled a bit over her response, before deciding to just get straight to the point and reply with, ¡°Yes.¡±

    ¡°Well, I guess it¡¯s your lucky day,¡± Dane replied to her response with a smile, standing up before heading towards a nearby bookshelf to grab a blue book out of it. He then gave it to Erea, who looked at the cover of the book in shock after reading the title written on it.

    ¡°{Beryl¡¯s Aqua Spells}¡­?¡± Erea could not help but look at this book she had received and her teacher again and again in slight shock. Seeing this, Dane could not help butugh as he said, ¡°I bought that at the time when I needed the inspiration to ascend to the Rank 3 Mage ss. You can borrow it for now. Once you ascend to your Rank 3 ss, give it back, okay?¡±

    With eyes filled with tion, Erea stood up and politely bowed in front of her teacher, replying with, ¡°I definitely will!¡±

    Seeing how touched she was from receiving a scripture she needed, Dane let out a chuckle as he said, ¡°Don¡¯t let me down. You¡¯re destined to do great things.¡±

    In response, Erea nodded before hastily heading out of her teacher¡¯s room, making sure to close the door behind her as respect. Other than that, she used all of the movement speed boosting spells she knew to reduce the time she took to reach her training room. It took around five minutes or so for her to return, mming the door to her training room shut as she arrived.

    She then grabbed the scripture that was on the nted table before cing the two scriptures on the floor, opening both of their first pages as she said with confidence, ¡°Since the system says this is what I needed to finally master the [Aqua Sphere] spell, it¡¯s time for me to be a Rank 3 ss holder!¡±

 Chapter 170: Wreaking Havoc

    Chapter 170: Wreaking Havoc

    ¡°Let¡¯s go ahead and start,¡± Aurus said to Horell after cringing over Horell¡¯s response a while ago. He then went ahead and started controlling the six division leaders at once, only to feel a huge burden on his soul an instantter. This huge spike in difficulty made Aurus feel pain, even though he was an Inanimate being. After the pain had subsided, he tried to move all of the division leaders at once one more time, bringing a huge burden to Aurus¡¯ mind once more. These movements, from what he could see through the perspectives of the division leaders, could not help but make the division members look at their leader with a confused aura emanating from them.

    In the end, Aurus realized that he did not have a soul strong enough to control the six division leaders at once, muttering to himself that he should have grinded Genesis Points to boost the power of his soul even further now that he had a skill that would suppress the aura of his soul. Nevertheless, since he did not grind Genesis Points, he had to make do with what he had, deciding to control the division leaders one by one instead of all at once.

    The result? The division leaders, from the members¡¯ perspectives, move like how they used to before, dispelling the confused auras emanating from them. This did not stop others from having auras of suspicion though, since there was a set amount of time when the division leader would move normally, then go idle for quite some time. Although Aurus noticed this as well and tried to make the division leaders look as natural as possible, there¡¯s a limit to what one Inanimate, who was not even well versed in manipting multiple beings at once, can do.

    Thanks to this, Horell had obtained quite a lot of messages from the members of the six divisions with them sending threads of their energy, telling him that their division leaders started acting weirdly all of a sudden, as if they were being possessed by some other being. Receiving these types of messages, Horell could not help but tell Aurus through their connection, ¡°Hey, Aurus. Could you do a better job of controlling the division leaders? Although I could make the members feel at ease for a while, I can¡¯t do this for long.¡±

    ¡°Since you still have the energy to say that, how about you go ahead and control six division leaders at once?¡± After Aurus received Horell¡¯s message, he could not help butin as he continued, ¡°I¡¯m already trying my best. There¡¯s a limit to how much I can do.¡±

    ¡°Then, how do I appease the members of the six divisions?¡± Horell could not help but ask Aurus, to which Aurus replied, ¡°Why ask me? You know more about Chonk¡¯s army than I do. Can¡¯t you think up of a way yourself?¡±

    After that, the connection between the two was temporarily cut as Aurus tried to move two division leaders at once, with limited sess. A few secondster, the connection between the two of them was reestablished, with Aurus telling Horell, ¡°Expect a few more messagesing your way in about¡­¡±

    ¡°Now.¡±

    Whoosh!

    And just like that, more strands of energy made its way towards Horell, their messages filled with suspicion towards their division leaders, wondering what the true leader of the army is doing. Some even wondered if the opposing army had bribed their leaders to act this way. In response to this, Horell decided to take Aurus¡¯ words, thinking up of a way to appease the members himself.Moving his mind to the maximum, he thought about the identities of the members in Chonk¡¯s army, deciding to put the me on a certain member of the army instead. Eventually, he found a perfect member to act as their scapegoat since no member in the army knew much about him anyway.With this idea in mind, he then sent a message to Aurus, saying, ¡°I think I found a pretty good way to reduce the members¡¯ suspicions.¡±

    ¡°Hoh?¡± Aurus could not help but utter in response. He then added, ¡°What do you have in mind?¡±¡±ording to Herellia, you did some recon on the army before we moved closer to the Tempest Branch Alliance,¡± Horell started talking after hearing Aurus¡¯ response. He then continued, ¡°I¡¯m pretty sure you know about the three strongest beings in the army very well.¡±

    ¡°Yeah,¡± Aurus replied as his control over the division leaders got better and better, allowing the division leaders to move more like how they did before. While doing so, he replied, ¡°You¡¯re the weakest of the three, being a Pseudo-Animate. Then, there are two Animates, with Chonk at Rank 1 and another Animate that¡¯s yet to reach Rank 1. I think the name of the other Animate was Chungus? Anyways, why are you asking me¡ªoh.¡±

    ¡°Are you thinking what I¡¯m thinking?¡± Horell said in a slightly excited tone, to which Aurus replied, ¡°Are you going to ce the me on this Chungus guy?¡±

    ¡°Exactly,¡± Horell replied to Aurus¡¯ question before exining, ¡°Even though he¡¯s part of Chonk¡¯s army, in actuality, only became part of the army as ofte. In the two previous skirmishes we had with the two alliances, he was not even part of the army. That¡¯s why many of the members of the army are suspicious of him, even though they try maintain a respectful tone when in front of him, since he¡¯s an Animate. He hasn¡¯t made a move that has won the favor of the members yet, so don¡¯t you think he¡¯s a good scapegoat?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m not the judge of that,¡± Aurus replied after Horell¡¯s exnation, adding, ¡°But from what you¡¯re telling me, he would help you out in exining what is currently happening. Does Chonk get messages from the members as well?¡±

    ¡°No, not at all,¡± Horell answered Aurus¡¯ question. ¡°All of the messages go through me, before I go and tell Chonk a summary of what those messages are.¡±

    ¡°Even better,¡± Aurus said as he let out a slightly malevolent chuckle not long after. He then said, ¡°I hope you make a pretty believable exnation for what¡¯s happening. Once I control three division leaders fluently, I think I¡¯ll start Phase 2 of Operation Reversal.¡±

    ¡°What¡¯s Phase 2?¡± Horell could not help but ask.

    ¡°Wreaking havoc,¡± Aurus replied with an ted tone before cutting off the connection between the two of them, leaving Horell alone to himself. Seeing as how Aurus trusted him so much, Horell reciprocated this trust, thinking up of a good exnation that would surely appease the members of the six divisions. After obtaining about twenty more messages from the members of the six divisions, their tones quite angry, Horell decided that the exnation he had created was sufficient, sending a strand of energy back to the members who sent him a message.

    On the strand of energy he sent was a message. It read, ¡°You might be wondering as to why your division leader is acting quite weirdly. The reason behind that is because Chungus, the Animate the leader had invited, has finally started to make his move. His move has something to do with possessing the division leaders and then infusing them with the power of his Animate skills, allowing them to deal more damage at the alliance once the time for the massive skirmishes. I hope all of you understand that Chungus does not know these division leaders, hence he has to adjust to the movements of the division leaders in order for the alliance to not notice that something is off with the division leaders.¡±

    He then added another strand of energy after it. On it said, ¡°I hope all of you cooperate with Chungus, making the division leaders look like they¡¯re moving normally while Chungus adjusts.¡±And with that, the suspicion these division members had were dispelled at once, recing it with auras of enthusiasm and slight fear, with the idea that they were helping the army out. Aurus also noticed the change in attitude from these division members while controlling the division leaders, wondering as to what the hell Horell did for their attitudes to take a 180 degree turn.

    Nevertheless, with the members not being suspicious of the division leader¡¯s movements anymore, Aurus was able to improve his control over the division leaders. After about five minutes or so, he was able to control two division leaders fluently, though he had to remove two of the soul balls he had as reconnaissance in exchange. After another five minutes, he was able to control three division leaders fluently, removing two more soul balls in exchange. Fortunately, the view of a single soul ball was wide enough wherein four soul balls on a certain area¡¯s corners would be enough to cover everything.

    Alongside Aurus¡¯ improvements in terms of control, Horell was also obtaining messages from the division members, regarding how their division leader was moving normally while noticing that another division leader was moving normally as well. These messages could not help but make Horell look at Aurus with awe, sending a message through his connection, ¡°Aurus, how the heck are you doing all of this?¡±

    ¡°Uh¡­¡± Aurus hemmed and hawed for a bit before replying with, ¡°To be honest, I don¡¯t know. I guess I have an innate affinity for these types of things?¡±

    Ding!

    ¡°Eh?¡± While continuing to improve his mastery over controlling multiple division leaders at once, Aurus heard a notification sound resound through his mind, prompting him to open up the notification screen. At the very moment he had opened the notification screen, the burden on his mind while controlling three division leaders at once had significantly lessened, making him realize that the notification was rted to the decrease in burden he felt.

    ¡®Due to your hard work, the passive skill [Dualtasking] has been created.¡¯

    After reading the notification he had obtained, he closed the notification screen and emanated an aura of tion from his original body, making the alliance members, who were looking at him with curiosity, wonder as to what he was doing. He then decided to push himself even further, removing all of the soul balls in midair.

    ¡°These six division leaders will be my eyes and ears for now,¡± Aurus muttered to himself as he continued, ¡°If they die, then I¡¯ll just deploy the soul balls again. It kind of sucks that I couldn¡¯t use the attack I made for the soul balls though.¡±

    And so, with firm determination, he was able to fluently control all of the division leaders at once after a few more minutes. This astounded the division members, as well as Horell, who had received a lot of messages regarding this. He sent out a message to Aurus through their connection, saying, ¡°I don¡¯t know how, but you actually did it, Aurus!¡±

    ¡°Surprisingly, I did,¡± Aurus replied to Horell¡¯s words with a chuckle. He then said, ¡°I think it¡¯s time for us to move to Phase 2 of Operation Reversal. Anyways, I¡¯ve decided to change Phase 2 a bit.¡±

    ¡°Oh?¡± Horell could not help but be curious as to what Aurus had changed. ¡°What changes are you making?¡±

    ¡°To increase the advantage the alliance has against the army,¡± Aurus replied to Horell¡¯s question before adding, ¡°Don¡¯t you think¡­¡±

    ¡°Making the division leaders kill their members is a good move?¡±

    ¡°¡­¡± Horell was silent for quite a while, appalled at the change Aurus had made. Nevertheless, this would undoubtedly give the alliance a huge advantage. After epting this fact, he then replied, ¡°Make sure you maintain the connection between us so I know when to make a move, okay?¡±

    ¡°Got it,¡± Aurus responded with a tone of excitement before manipting the six division leaders at once, making them speak simultaneously with the same words. The words they said were¡­

    ¡°Everyone, I have something to tell you.¡±

    Hearing these words from their division leaders, the division members eagerly came closer to their division leaders, asking questions regarding the n made by Horell. Although Aurus was confused at first, he could not help but think to himself that Horell did a great job masking what he was doing. Amidst all of the excitement of the division members, the division leaders spoke one more time. This time, they only said one word.

    ¡°Silence.¡±

    Unsurprisingly, all of the division members shut up, though this did not stop them from radiating auras of excitement, wondering as to what their division was going to do next. Fortunately for them, Aurus was about to tell them what their division was going to do next. Unfortunately, it was not something they would have expected to happen.

    ¡°I¡¯m pretty sure all of you know the n thanks to Horell,¡± Aurus said through the six division leaders, intensifying the auras of excitement the division members radiated.

    ¡°For that, I thank all of you for your cooperation,¡± he continued, the auras of excitement reaching a peak. He then made the division leaders go silent for a bit, increasing the eagerness of the division members, which made them move closer to their respective division leaders.

    ¡°And with that, let us start Operation¡­¡± After the silence, he made the division leaders talk once more, extending the word at the end for a few seconds. Once they heard the words uttered by their division leaders, all of them became dumbfounded, frozen in ce. What did these division leaders say? Well¡­

    ¡°¡­Division Extermination.¡±

    At the very instant the division leaders were finished saying these two words, Aurus hastily activated the ultimate skills they had, which affected a wide area.

    ¡°[Heaven¡¯s Extermination Ray]!¡±

    ¡°[Necro Ruination]!¡±

    ¡°[World of Frost]!¡±

    ¡°[Asura¡¯s Wrath]!¡±

    ¡°[Shadowbinding Arts: Hidden Death]!¡±

    ¡°[Wave Arts: Unending Reverberation]!¡±

    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!

    In that instant, six ultimate skills had been used in the territory of Chonk¡¯s army, wiping out most of the members of Chonk¡¯s army in one move. All of those that had survived were at a loss for words as to what had happened. It would take some time until Chonk and the Tempest Branch Alliance found this out.

    It would eventually be remembered, not by its original name of Operation Reversal, but a name that befitted what had happened.

    Operation Massacre.

 Chapter 171: Irreconcilable

    Chapter 171: Irreconcble

    ¡°[Heaven¡¯s Extermination Ray]!¡±

    ¡°[Necro Ruination]!¡±

    ¡°[World of Frost]!¡±

    ¡°[Asura¡¯s Wrath]!¡±

    ¡°[Shadowbinding Arts: Hidden Death]!¡±

    ¡°[Wave Arts: Unending Reverberation]!¡±

    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!

    In that instant, six ultimate skills,ing from six different Inanimates, were cast on the territory of Chonk¡¯s army simultaneously. These six skills went ignored by the members who were still dumbfounded from the words uttered by their division leaders, with them only realizing what they had done until it was toote.

    ¡°Ahhhhh! Nooo!¡± At the very instant they realized what their division leaders had done, they did not spare any time to avoid the skills that were cast, or if they were stronger, defend against them. Although they now abhorred their division leaders, they could not direct this hate towards them since being alive was better than being dead.

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    As if it was an orchestra, a plethora of skills, ranging from barriers to movement speed boosting skills, were activated by the members of the six divisions in session, holding onto the hope that they would be able to survive the attacks of their division leaders. Unfortunately for them, the division leaders packed more power than they thought.

    Fsh! Fsh! Fsh!

    On one part of the territory, a beam of light shone down from the sky, vaporizing any Inanimate that came into contact with it along its path. Even those that had barriers all over their bodies were not spared, dispelling their barriers in one hit before slicing their bodies into two.

    In another part, multiple Water energy particles congregated over the division leader¡¯s head before spreading out like a raging tsunami, easily catching up with those that had movement speed boosting skills activated. Once they were caught by the raging tsunami, they were heavily bombarded with a ton of Water energy particles, hastily rendering them dead.

    The method of killing was different in the other parts, but ultimately, most of the members of the six divisions were not spared by the ultimate skills of their division leaders, turning into lifeless Inanimates in a matter of an instant. That¡¯s why they became division leaders. It was because they knew how tomand other Inanimates, as well as hold power far greater than what normal Inanimates have.

    While this was happening, Horell could not help but be mesmerized by how Aurus was able to do all of this. In awe, he muttered, ¡°Not only did he cast the ultimate skills of these division leaders, but he also made sure that they ovepped over one another, making sure that those that escaped would be caught up in another ultimate move.¡±

    It was around this time that Horell obtained a message from Aurus through their connection, with Aurus saying, ¡°Hey Horell, make sure to protect your division well! I¡¯m gonna redirect a bit of the ultimate skills towards your division, so Chonk has more reason to kill these division leaders!¡±

    ¡°Ah?¡± Although the message was abrupt, Horell hastily snapped out of his daze as he replied, ¡°Got it!¡±

    Whoosh!

    Not long after replying, he hastily made multiple strands of energy with a message on it, sending towards the members of the division he controlled.

    ¡°Everyone, get close to me! The other division leaders are going on a rampage!¡± This was what the strands of energy contained, which made the division members look at their division leader from a new perspective as they hastily got congregated to where Horell was.

    Unlike the members of the six divisions, the members of Horell¡¯s division were not informed of what was happening on the other divisions, which greatly surprised them after finding out that the other division leaders went on a rampage. Seeing as Horell did not go on a rampage like the others, they could not help but think that the other divisions were pitiful while solidifying their beliefs towards Horell.

    After some time, the ultimate skills started to converge towards Horell¡¯s division after seeing that almost all of the members of the six divisions were dead. Although Horell did not get a signal from

    Aurus through their connection, he knew what he had to do, conjuring arge and thick barrier over the members of his division. This move could not help but make the members feel awe for Horell, thinking of him as a true division leader.

    Bang! Bang! Bang!

    Eventually, the ultimate skills collided with the barrier, attacking it with all its might. Surprisingly, even though the skills were at their full power, they weren¡¯t able to break through the barrier, shocking the members of Horell¡¯s division while Horell was looking at the ultimate skills in awe.

    Since he was a Mana Spirit, he could vividly see the flow of energy in skills and spells that use any form of energy. He noticed that even though the skills looked like they were attacking the barrier at full power, most of the energy in them were redirected towards the appearance of the skill rather than its power. He knew that the opposite was happening a while ago, if not, Aurus would not be able to kill all of those division members with these ultimate skills as easily as he did.

    While making sure to not look out of ce, Horell sent out a message to Aurus, saying, ¡°I thought you were already at your limit when you made those division leaders use their ultimate skills. And now you¡¯re making it look like the skills are attacking at full power even though they¡¯re not? Although I would like to say that my barrier could withstand the full power of a few X-grade Inanimates, what you¡¯re doing is more amazing.¡±

    ¡°How did you do it?¡± he asked soon after.

    ¡°I guess I have an innate affinity for these things,¡± Aurus soon replied, deciding to not tell Horell about the system. In actuality though, the reason why he was able to do this was all due to the [Dualtasking] skill he had obtained a while ago.

    The [Dualtasking] skill was in actuality, a C-grade Mortal level skill, which allowed him to easily level up and upgrade this skill to a far stronger variant. At the moment, it was now an S-grade Mortal level skill, which took on the name [Pentatasking]. With this skill now enhanced, the burden he felt while controlling these six division leaders was now minuscule, which allowed him to deploy the surveying soul balls in mid-air again.

    Eventually, the ultimate skills gradually weakened as they were colliding against the barrier, which made the members of Horell¡¯s division trust him even more. While this was happening, Aurus sent a message to Horell, saying, ¡°I¡¯m pretty sure Chonk has been notified about what I¡¯ve done. The sounds made by these ultimate skills are incredibly loud.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m pretty sure as well,¡± Horell could not help but respond to Aurus¡¯ statement, adding, ¡°What kind of reaction do you think he¡¯s going to have?¡±

    ¡°What else?¡± Aurus let out a slightly malevolent chuckle as he replied.

    ¡°Rage. Unending rage.¡±

    ¡­

    Bang! Bang! Bang!

    On a slightly distant part of the territory of Chonk¡¯s army, a jade green wolf could not help but perk up its ears after hearing loud explosion soundsing from his territory. This jade green wolf was none other than Chonk, who could not help but feel that something bad has happened within his territory.

    With this in mind, he muttered to himself, ¡°Heavens, please tell me that nothing bad happened. Don¡¯t tell me anything bad happened.¡±

    While thinking about this, the negative thoughts in his mind could not help but growrger, making him think that something incredibly bad has happened. With the loud sounds still being picked up by his ears, Chonk decided to get closer to the origin of the sounds, running as fast as possible.

    ¡°Master! Master! Bad news!¡± Just as he was about to arrive at the area where the origin of the sound was, a familiar voice to him resounded in his mind, making him stop in an area filled with trees. This voice was filled with worry and guilt, which made Chonk feel like his worst nightmare hase true. Although he now had a hunch that something bad had indeed happened, he could not help but still hold on to the hope that nothing bad had happened,posing himself as he responded, ¡°What happened, Horell? Speak.¡±

    A few seconds of silence had passed after Chonk¡¯s response before Horell replied to his question.

    Nevertheless, the reply he had obtained was more than enough for his hope to be crushed. He had a feeling that he was on the verge of losing his mind due to the news that he had obtained.

    ¡°Master, the first six divisions have been wiped out by their respective division leaders.¡± This was what Horell said to Chonk. He also added, ¡°Only a few members of those divisions were able to escape.¡±

    Chonk took a few deep breaths topose himself, knowing very well that he was surely going to go insane. After calming himself down, he asked, ¡°Why did they do it?¡±

    ¡°I have no clue, Master,¡± Horell hastily responded before adding, ¡°They¡¯re not making any other moves after that, which is weird.¡±

    Hearing that the six division leaders did not go any further, Chonk could not help but feel a weird sense of ease as he replied, ¡°Wait for me to get there, Horell.¡±

    After hearing Horell respond to hisst statement, Chonk then continued dashing towards the origin of the sound, concluding that those loud sounds were made by the six division leaders as stated by Horell. It only took Chonk a few minutes to arrive at the area, his expression filled with intense shock after looking at the sight in front of him.

    Since the seven divisions of his army were situated here, that meant that arge clearing was made for them. Almost every part of the clearing was transformed into a ruined state, with the remains of the killed Inanimates strewn all over. He let out a sigh of relief after seeing that a small area of the clearing was still clear, with a barrier housing a decent amount of members, as well as Horell in the center.

    After that, he looked at the six division leaders that killed their respective division members. These six division leaders were positioned in a line, all of them facing Chonk with a slightly arrogant aura emanating from each one of them. Suppressing his intent to kill them then and there, he asked with a loud voice, ¡°Why did you kill them? Speak and I might even spare you.¡±

    ¡°Spare us?¡± Rather than talking one by one, the six division leaders talked simultaneously, which slightly took Chonk aback. Nevertheless, he easily adjusted to this as they continued talking.

    ¡°You went ahead and sent someone to manipte our members, transforming the alliance into a chaotic hellhole,¡± the division leaders continued to talk, making Chonk think that something was off with their words. They then continued, ¡°Don¡¯t you think it¡¯s fair and just for us to retaliate with what you¡¯ve done to our alliance?¡±

    ¡°Alliance?¡± At that point, Chonk decided to release his rage, emanating a huge aura of murderous intent as he snarled. He then said, ¡°Hoh? You six are actually a part of that shitty alliance? Quitemendable for you six to keep up a facade for so long.¡±

    ¡°Who said we¡¯re part of the alliance?¡± At that, the six division leaders malevolently chuckled as one of the division leaders stopped talking. Not long after, this division leader started rolling around by itself in shock, stopping as it noticed Chonk, who was looking at it.

    Without hesitation, the division leader sent out a thread of energy that said, ¡°L-leader! T-the alliance! They have someone who can¡ª¡±

    Just before that division leader could finish its words, the remaining five could not help but coldlyugh as a beam was sent out towards the former, splitting it into two. It was at this point that Chonk¡¯s perception of the five division leaders had changed, sensing the sincere aura from the currently dead division leader¡¯s words.

    ¡°Who are you?¡± Chonk asked the five division leaders with his rage still at its peak, to which they replied, ¡°You don¡¯t have to know who I am. What you should only know is that I¡¯m going to make your life a living hell. I¡¯ll make sure you won¡¯t be able to destroy the Tempest Branch Alliance.¡±

    ¡°Is that you, Herellia?¡± Chonk could not help but ask before adding, ¡°If it¡¯s you, then I¡¯m sure you know what¡¯s going to happen next.¡±

    ¡°Unfortunately for you, I¡¯m not Herellia,¡± the five division leaders replied simultaneously. They then continued, ¡°I¡¯d suggest you kill these five division leaders, lest you want me to make your other ns fail.¡±

    Hearing the mocking tone from the division leaders¡¯ words, Chonk could not help but snarl as he replied, ¡°Whoever you are, ry my next words to Herellia.¡±

    ¡°I wanted to give you one more chance to surrender, but with this move you¡¯ve done, there¡¯s no turning back.¡±

    ¡°As if she needs to hear that,¡± the five division leadersughed at Chonk¡¯s words as they replied.

    ¡°If I find out who you are, I¡¯m gonna make sure you¡¯re the first one to die,¡± Chonk said before going ahead and charging towards these five division leaders. He then swiped with one of his front paws as arge amount of Wind energy particles congregated towards its ws.

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    In that instant, the five division leaders were split into multiple fragments, carried away by the strong breeze of the wind. While that happened, Chonk could not help but hear a faintughing sound that gradually became weaker as he turned around to look at the unscathed area.

    ¡°Horell.¡± Chonk conjured a strand of energy, to which he sent towards Horell in an instant.

    ¡°Yes, Master?¡± Horell replied.

    ¡°Although we only have a few dozen members left¡­¡±

    ¡°Let¡¯s start Code Omega.¡±

 Chapter 172: Code Omega

    Chapter 172: Code Omega

    ¡°Let¡¯s start Code Omega,¡± Chonk said to Horell without hesitation. Horell, who was in the middle of the gathering of the remaining members of the army, could not help but shudder and radiate a faint aura of fear, which did not go unnoticed by some of the members who were looking at him like some sort of divine prophet.

    Fortunately, Horell was able topose himself in a matter of an instant as he replied to Chonk¡¯s statement. ¡°By Code Omega¡­you mean¡­?¡±

    ¡°All of the phases, Horell,¡± Chonk answered Horell¡¯s question in a serious tone before adding, ¡°We don¡¯t know if they have more tricks up their sleeve like the one a while ago.¡±

    Hearing that, Horell could not help but look at the members of his division, as well as those that had escaped from the onught of the ultimate skills, with slight guilt. Although all of the members of Chonk¡¯s army knew what Code Omega meant, only Horell, Chonk, and Chungus knew what Code Omega truly was.

    ¡°I¡¯ll just go and prepare a few things before we start. I also need to tell Chungus about this,¡± Chonk said a few secondster before using a few skills to locate where Chungus was. After locating Chungus, he then said to Horell, ¡°Make sure to always be ready to obtain my message, Horell.¡±

    ¡°Yes, Master,¡± Horell replied with a tone of slight fear and reverence as Chonk turned his body to point towards the general direction of where Chungus was, before dashing at his full power.

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    Due to his ss being rted to Wind, to the Inanimates, Chonk was more or less invisible to them if he moved at his full speed. Nevertheless, the breeze that was generated from his movement was more than enough for them to know that the army¡¯s main leader was here.

    Letting the breeze made by the dash caress his body, Horell could not help but think about what had happened to Aurus. He knew that Aurus used a portion of his soul to possess the six division leaders, turning them into his puppets, which were ultimately destroyed by Chonk¡¯s attack. He could not help but worry that the injury Aurus obtained on his soul was severe that he would not be able to make any further moves.

    Fortunately, Horell¡¯s worries dissipated into thin air as he heard a familiar voice resounded throughout his mind.

    ¡°I wasn¡¯t expecting him to attack that quickly,¡± the voice said in Horell¡¯s mind. It then added, ¡°Anyways, I¡¯m back.¡±

    ¡°Aurus?!¡± Horell was in disbelief. A small amount of time has only passed between the time when the bodies of the five division leaders were destroyed and the time when Chonk left to head to where Chungus, but Aurus was actually able to recover a great part of his injuries tomunicate with him?

    ¡°What¡¯s with the surprised tone?¡± Aurus could not help but ask, clueless as to why Horell was shocked to hear his voice. Not long after, Horell responded to his question, saying, ¡°It¡¯s just that¡­how?¡±

    ¡°How¡­what?¡± Aurus did not understand what Horell was trying to say, to which Horell noticed and said, ¡°Only a small amount of time has passed since the bodies of the five division leaders were destroyed. Surely you would¡¯ve obtained a great injury to your soul after that, right?¡±

    ¡°Oh¡­that.¡± After listening to what Horell was trying to imply, Aurus could not help but lightly chuckle as he said, ¡°I only used a small part of my soul to control them. To be honest, I did not take that long to heal those injuries. Most of the time was taken up by me talking about what I did with Herellia. At the moment, she¡¯s still dumbfounded.¡±

    ¡°What did you tell her?¡± Horell could not help but ask.

    ¡°I¡¯ll tell you what happened then,¡± Aurus replied to his question, starting to narrate what had happened after the bodies of the five division leaders were killed. Of course, the story he narrated to Horell was a bit different from what had actually happened.

    ¡­

    Fwoosh!

    ¡°Agh. That hurts,¡± Aurus could not help but say as five of the perspectives he saw were instantly removed by a single swipe of Chonk¡¯s front paw. At the moment, he was only left with three perspectives: one from his original body, one from his clone¡¯s perspective, and one from above the territory of Chonk¡¯s army.

    In actuality, a sizable chunk of his soul was removed from that attack, which effectively slowed down Aurus¡¯ capabilities by quite a bit. Fortunately, this side effect was alleviated a bit by the [Pentatasking] skill, allowing the other parts of his soul to do what the lost parts of his soul were doing. Knowing very well that having a chunk of his soul gone would not be of great help to the war, Aurus hastily activated his healing skill, focusing it towards its soul.

    Whoosh!

    ¡°Well¡­that was fast,¡± Aurus could not help but say after he felt the instant recovery of his soul back to its peak condition. Not only that, he felt like his soul was slightly sharper than before, though it was just barely noticeable. Nevertheless, with his soul back to normal, Aurus let out a small sigh of relief as he looked at the perspective from Chonk¡¯s army, noticing that Chonk was talking with Horell through energy transfer.

    ¡°I¡¯ll just hop inter, who knows if Chonk wants Horell to do something bad to the alliance,¡± Aurus decided before teleporting to where Herellia was, appearing near the entrance of the alliance¡¯s small ecosystem where the discussion was being held.

    Whoosh!

    ¡°Wah! You scared me!¡± Herellia could not help but scream after Aurus appeared in the center of the circle where they were discussing something, prompting the other members, who were in the discussion, to look at Aurus with slight surprise as well.

    ¡°Hehe, I apologize,¡± Aurus lightly chuckled as he apologized to Herellia before teleporting to a more appropriate ce. He then looked at the other members that were included in the discussion before radiating a slightly serious aura.

    ¡°I sincerely apologize for interrupting the discussion,¡± Aurus said before adding, ¡°Could anyone tell me what was being talked about before I came here?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll tell you, Vice Leader,¡± One of the members in the discussion, who was a branch in the shape of a banana, rolled forward before focusing its sense of vision towards Aurus, the aura radiated from it being a mix of awe and shock.

    ¡°Please do,¡± Aurus replied politely to the banana-shaped branch, inwardly proud at the fact that he was called Vice Leader.

    ¡°Before you entered the discussion, Vice Leader, all of us have agreed to initiate Code 5 and Code 7 in the case that the opposing armyes to our alliance and attacks us while we¡¯re inside,¡± the banana-shaped branch started to exin after Aurus was finished talking. It then added, ¡°At the moment, we are currently discussing as to whether we should activate Code 1 if they¡ª¡±

    Just as the banana-shaped branch was finished talking, Aurus could not help but say, ¡°Ah. I almost forgot.¡±

    ¡°What did you almost forget?¡± Herellia could not help but look at Aurus and ask.

    ¡°Remember that I went ahead and counterattacked against the move done by Chonk¡¯s army?¡± Aurus said in a slightly questioning manner.

    ¡°Yeah? What about it?¡± Listening to his words, Herellia¡¯s interest could not help but be piqued as she asked.

    ¡°Well, let¡¯s just say I might have gone overboard and killed around 90 percent of Chonk¡¯s members.¡± After saying this, Aurus let out a short chuckle. In response, all he got from the members of the discussion, as well as Herellia, was silence.

    It took a few seconds for Herellia to break the silence as she asked, ¡°Eh?¡±

    ¡°Ah, I¡¯ll tell everythingter,¡± Aurus said before teleporting back to the center of the alliance base, leaving Herellia and the other members of the discussion hanging.

    ¡­

    ¡°And that¡¯s pretty much how it went,¡± Aurus said to Horell, omitting the stuff about the system while exaggerating the speed at which he had recovered his soul even further. After listening to Aurus¡¯ story, Horell could not help but think that Aurus had improved by quite a lot after he had left the alliance.

    ¡°Anyways, I noticed that you and Chonk were talking about something while I was talking with Herellia,¡± Aurus continued after narrating his story. ¡°What was it about?¡±

    At that instant, a faint aura of fear radiated from Horell, which carried over to his tone as he replied, ¡°Chonk told me that we were going to initiate Code Omega.¡±

    ¡°Code Omega?¡± Aurus could not help but ask, wondering as to why the alliance and Chonk¡¯s army were using codes before cing the thought at the back of his head.

    ¡°Since we now have a connection, I can pretty much tell you most of the codes that Chonk¡¯s army has,¡± Horell said after pondering over how he was going to exin Code Omega. He then said, ¡°Anyways, I¡¯m pretty sure that we¡¯re going to start Code Omega soon, so I¡¯ll just tell you the main parts of it. Make sure to ry it to Herellia, okay?¡±

    ¡°Mm,¡± Aurus replied to Horell with a grunt before adding, ¡°My sense of hearing is focused on your words.¡±

    ¡°Alright,¡± Horell said before starting to exin.

    ¡°Code Omega is¡­¡±

    ¡­

    While Horell was telling Aurus a simplified version of what Code Omega was, Chonk had finally arrived at the area where Chungus was. As he arrived, he was greeted by the sight of a magic circle that spanned about 15 meters in diameter. Around the perimeter of this magic circle was a docile looking rabbit, etching a few sigils with its paws on the ground.

    This docile looking rabbit was none other than Chungus, the Animate that Chonk hired to be a part of Chonk¡¯s army for this war.

    ¡°Oh! If it isn¡¯t Chonk!¡± Hearing the sounds of bushes shaking, Chungus could not help but look at the origin of the sound, noticing that a jade green wolf had arrived. ¡°It seems you¡¯vee to check if the Grand Restriction spell isplete.¡±

    ¡°More or less,¡± Chonk replied to Chungus¡¯ question as he got closer to the magic circle, sensing therge amount of mana that was infused into it. With this in mind, he looked at Chungus and asked, ¡°Mana stones?¡±

    ¡°Not just any normal mana stone, wind mana stones,¡± Chungus replied to Chonk¡¯s question with a slightly cheerful tone.

    ¡°I see,¡± Chonk said before bing silent. After a few seconds, he then asked Chungus, ¡°How much time left until the circle isplete?¡±

    ¡°Not a lot if you help me out on some parts,¡± Chungus said as he headed towards another part of the magic circle, drawing a few sigils while channeling the energy of a few wind mana stones into it.

    ¡°Sure,¡± Chonk eded to his request before adding, ¡°It would be a great help if the magic circle is finished before we start Code Omega anyway.¡±

    ¡°Wait¡­¡± Chungus could not help but stop what he was doing and stare at Chonk as he blinked a few times. After that, he asked, ¡°You¡¯re starting Code Omega this early?¡±

    ¡°What else can I do?¡± Chonk let out a sigh as he replied. ¡°I don¡¯t know how, but the opposing alliance has infiltrated our territory and killed most of our members.¡±

    ¡°Tsss¡­¡± Chungus could not help but suck in a breath of cold air. After that, he went silent for a bit before replying, ¡°Alright then, I¡¯ll speed up thepletion process of the circle so we could prepare more for Code Omega.¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯ll help out,¡± Chonk replied before heading towards another part of the magic circle, drawing a few sigils on the ground as he started to ponder over the army¡¯s next move.

    ¡®At this point, it¡¯s all or nothing,¡¯ Chonk thought to himself. ¡®It¡¯s quite weird though. If they could possess six of the division leaders quite easily, why did they not possess Horell? Is it because he¡¯s a Pseudo-Animate? Or is it¡­?¡¯

    ¡®I¡¯ll just keep my eye on him even more. If he does end up betraying me, I still have that skill up my sleeve anyway.¡¯

    ¡­

    A couple of minutes had passed since Horell started telling Aurus about the general mechanics of Code Omega. At this moment, the conversation between the two of them was already finished, but they still maintained their connection for emergencies.

    ¡°I should tell Herellia about this as soon as possible,¡± Aurus could not help but mutter as he looked at the perspective from Chonk¡¯s territory, noticing that the remaining members of Chonk¡¯s army, as well as the three strongest members, were making their way towards the alliance base.

    ¡°What are you going to tell me?¡± Just as he was about to teleport, a familiar voice resounded behind Aurus, prompting him to focus his sense of vision in an instant to take a look at who that was. After finding out that it was Herellia, Aurus let out a sigh of relief as he said, ¡°You almost scared me there.¡±

    ¡°Think of it as payback,¡± Herellia let out a short chuckle before adding, ¡°Anyways, what do you want to tell me?¡±

    ¡°Herellia, listen well,¡± Aurus replied to her question, saying, ¡°Chonk¡¯s army is heading to our alliance at this very moment. They¡¯re going to use something I heard from Horell called Code Omega.¡±

    ¡°Code Omega?¡± Hearing that it came from Horell, Herellia¡¯s aura could not help but turn serious in an instant as she asked. ¡°What¡¯s it about?¡±

    ¡°ording to Horell, Code Omega has 3 phases,¡± Aurus replied without hiding any of the information Horell told him. ¡°The first phases of Code Omega is¡ª¡±

    Whoosh!

    Just as he was about to start exining to Herellia what Code Omega was, Aurus instantly sensed an incredibly menacing auraing from outside the alliance base, interrupting his exnation midway. Fortunately for him, everyone else sensed this aura as well, looking at the origin of this menacing aura.

    What they could see was the remaining members of Chonk¡¯s army, all ready to go ahead and kill the members of the Tempest Branch Alliance without hesitation. They were arranged in a formation, with Chonk at the very front and center, while Horell and Chungus took up the left and right sides behind Chonk respectively.

    At the very moment, they were intently looking at the alliance members inside the base, with Chonk mostly focusing his attention towards Herellia, who was at the center of the alliance base. He could not help but take note of the glowing wooden sculpture beside Herellia, noticing that it radiated an aura that did not lose out to her.

    After that, Chonk turned around to look at the remaining members of his army as he shouted, ¡°Everyone, we are gathered here today to engage in the final skirmish that will determine the ruler of Tempest Cliff!¡±

    ¡°I need everyone¡¯s cooperation in this final operation, for this operation will surely allow us to achieve victory even with our minuscule numbers!¡±

    He then turned around one more time to look at the alliance base before saying, ¡°Horell, Chungus, activate your spells!¡±

    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!

    In an instant, arge blue ball manifested over Horell¡¯s head, while arge red ball manifested over Chungus¡¯ head. Not long after, arge green ball manifested over Chonk¡¯s head, to which he manipted to consume the blue and red balls, transforming into a humongous ball of light.With the ball of light over his head, he then shouted with intense fervor, ¡°Code Omega¡­¡±

    ¡°Phase 1¡­¡±

    ¡°[Maledictum ustra]!¡±

 Chapter 173: Breaking the Barrier

    Chapter 173: Breaking the Barrier

    ¡°[Maledictum ustra]!¡±

    Whoosh!

    In an instant, the ball of light over Chonk¡¯s head hastily charged towards the entrance of the alliance base. As this ball of light made its way towards the alliance base, the alliance members thought that this ball of light was going to explode and inflict a lot of damage to them, prompting them to activate all of their defensive and evasive skills. Even Herellia and Aurus had the same thought as well as they watched the skill being prepared a while ago, activating their defensive skills to its limit.

    Seeing the response of the alliance, Chonk could not help but grin as he muttered to himself, ¡°If [Maledictum ustra] was an offensive skill from the get-go, that would just be extremely straightforward now, wouldn¡¯t it?¡±

    Swoosh!

    Just before the ball of light could enter the main hall of the alliance base, in a matter of an instant, the ball of light expanded in an insanely fast rate, transforming into a white barrier that covered the entrance of the alliance base. Noticing that this was the case, the alliance members could not help but feel a bit of anger that they were led to the thought that the ball of light was an offensive skill. The barrier was pure white for a few seconds before it became translucent, allowing the alliance to still see what was happening outside the hall.

    With the wall covering the entrance of the alliance base, Herellia and Aurus could not help but look at each other, with Herellia asking Aurus, ¡°Why did Chonk conjure a barrier on the base¡¯s entrance? If the purpose of the barrier is to bar us from leaving, I¡¯m pretty sure that wouldn¡¯t¡ª¡±

    Just as Herellia was talking with Aurus about the barrier and how it would be easy to break through, Aurus could not help but look at it from another perspective, interrupting Herellia as he refuted, ¡°I¡¯m pretty sure that¡¯s the case, Herellia. A barrier made out of the energy of two Animates and a Pseudo-Animate, it wouldn¡¯t take that much time to realize that its purpose is to bar us from leaving.¡±

    With all of the memories from his past life fully unlocked, Aurus knew the difference between an Animate and an Inanimate in terms of power very well. Add on the fact that he knew what was going to happen in the next 2 phases of Code Omega, he knew that if they didn¡¯t have a card up their sleeves that would allow them to turn the tides, they would undoubtedly lose.

    As for the other alliance members, every one of them could not help but look at the barrier and think to themselves that this barrier would eventually be broken by their alliance leader. Seeing the impassiveness of the alliance, Chonk could not help but shout at the alliance members.

    ¡°You think you could break through that barrier that easily? What a joke. That barrier¡¯s made with the energy of two Animates and a Pseudo-Animate! You¡¯d need the power of an Animate to sessfully break through the barrier!¡± Chonk could not help but snarl as he said this.

    After that, he turned around to look at the members of his army with an aura of confidence emanating from him. He then said with fervor, ¡°I¡¯m pretty sure that every one of you knows the power of that barrier. It would be akin to a stroke of luck if they break through it. With them being unable to move, let us proceed with the preparations for Phase 2!¡±

    ¡­

    While Chonk and his army were preparing for the second phase of Code Omega, the alliance could not help but go into a state of slight panic, with the pessimistic thought of them not breaking through the barrier slowly seeping in. Nheless, they knew without a doubt that panicking would not help them out, trying to maintain a state of calm andposure since if one panicked, then the others would panic as well.

    As for Herellia and Aurus, they were the only ones unfazed by Chonk¡¯s words, with Herellia still having the belief that she could break through the barrier with her strength while Aurus knew that he still had a lot of tricks up his sleeve. Noticing that the opposing army was preparing something while they were barred from exiting the alliance base thanks to the barrier, Herellia could not help but look at Aurus and recall the words he was about to say a while ago before being interrupted by the arrival of the opposing army.

    ¡°Oh yeah, Aurus. You were going to talk about something called Code Omega earlier?¡± Herellia asked Aurus, to which Aurus replied, ¡°Ah, yeah. Code Omega has already started.¡±

    ¡°Really?¡± Herellia could not help but say as her sense of vision focused on the barrier. With her focus still on the barrier, she asked Aurus, ¡°That¡¯s part of Code Omega?¡±

    ¡°Yeah, that¡¯s the first phase of Code Omega, named [Maledictum ustra],¡± Aurus replied to her question before adding, ¡°The goal of the first phase is to limit our movements, which would allow the opposing army to focus their strongest attacks towards us, who are akin to sitting ducks.¡±

    ¡°You said something about Code Omega having three phases, right?¡± Herelliamitted the answer to memory before asking another question. ¡°What do the two phases after this first one do?¡±

    ¡°Although Horell didn¡¯t tell me what the names of the next two phases are, he did tell me the goals of the next two phases,¡± Aurus answered Herellia¡¯s question, pondering as to how he was going to phrase it in simpler terms. After a few seconds, he had an idea as to how he would go and phrase it, saying, ¡°The second phase of Code Omega is pretty much their preparation phase. The goal of the second phase is to increase thebat power of the army to its utmost limits.¡±

    ¡°As for the third phase, if we don¡¯t make a move to stop it, I¡¯m incredibly sure that the alliance would not exist anymore,¡± Aurus continued to talk, adding, ¡°More or less, the third phase is pretty much them fusing their powers, sending out an attack that would kill any Inanimate even if they were only grazed by it.¡±

    ¡°In short, if we don¡¯t break that barrier, the Tempest Branch Alliance would cease to exist,¡± Herellia said after pondering over Aurus¡¯ words. Hearing this, Aurus radiated an aura of affirmation as he replied, ¡°Pretty much. Does the alliance have any codes that would allow us to break through such a barrier that easily?¡±

    Herellia could not help but let out a sigh as she replied with an aura of slight disappointment, ¡°Although we do have codes that have an immense attack power, they¡¯re only effective when theye into contact with Animates or Pseudo-Animates. We¡¯ve tested them again barriers before, they were just deflected by it, even with their immense power.¡±

    ¡°So, what are your ns then?¡± Aurus could not help but ask.

    Whoosh!

    After Aurus was finished asking, Herellia radiated her aura to its limits, dwarfing the aura that she had radiated earlier. This aura did not go unnoticed, with almost all of the alliance members focusing their senses of vision towards their alliance leader. As for Aurus, after sensing this aura, he could not help but mutter to himself, ¡°I guess she still hid a lot of power from me, huh.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m pretty sure I¡¯ll surprise you, then,¡± Aurus continued to mutter as Herellia looked at him and said, ¡°What else can I do? There¡¯s only one thing I can do.¡±

    Whoosh!

    ¡°Attack with my full power!¡± At the very instant she was finished talking, Herellia flew towards the barrier at a fast speed, with her aura gradually bing tangible as it glowed a faint crimson color.

    ¡°[Sanguine Ruler Body ¡ª Basics: Full Power]!¡±

    ¡°[Condensed Sanguine Aura]!¡±

    Swoosh!

    After mentioning the name of those two skills, the pressure radiated by her aura had increased by multiple times. Looking at this, Aurus could not help but pick up the names of the two skills and muttered with slight doubt, ¡°Sanguine Ruler¡­has she be a true Sanguine Ruler?¡±

    It did not take long for Aurus to ce this thought at the back of his head, focusing his sense of vision towards Herellia, wondering how strong of an attack she would be able to deal to the barrier. Of course, this did not stop him from thinking about his attack as well since the earlier the barrier is broken, the better the alliance would fare.

    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!

    In an instant, multiple crimson tendrils started to extend from Herellia¡¯s body, wrapping around one another until the tendrils transformed into what looked like a giant thorn. With the giant crimson thorn now made, Herellia channeled all of her energy towards the giant thorn, making the thorn radiate a faint light that was of a deeper shade of crimson.

    ¡°[Supreme Sanguine Art]¡­¡±

    ¡°[Cruor Thorn]!¡±

    Bang!

    She then manipted the giant thorn to hit the barrier, creating a loud banging sound that was not left unheard by the members of the alliance, as well as the opposing army on the other side of the barrier. With most of them still preparing for the second phase of Code Omega, Chonk could not help but look at what was happening to the barrier, noticing therge thorn that hit the barrier.

    The barrier started to warp a bit after the giant thorn hit the barrier, with the point of contact slightly glowing white as the barrier tried to return to its original shape. Noticing this glow, Herellia tried to manipte the giant thorn to push further, with the intent of making a hole through the barrier that would them to move anywhere they wanted.

    Boing!

    Unfortunately for her, the giant thorn had reached its limit to warping the barrier, with the barrier bouncing back to its previous state as the thorn was reflected at her. Seeing this, Herellia hastily dispelled the giant thorn, letting out a disappointed sigh as she flew back to where Aurus was.

    On the other side of the barrier, seeing what had happened to the thorn, Chonk could not help but feel smug that the barrier had done its job, wondering if there was another confident Inanimate in the alliance that would attack the barrier like Herellia as he went back to preparing for the second phase.

    ¡°Well, that¡¯s all I got,¡± Herellia said in a slightly sad tone as shended near Aurus. As for Aurus, he could not help but look at Herellia with slight surprise, realizing that the power she had unleashed was far greater than before. Not only that, the previous thought he had surfaced in his mind, prompting Aurus to ask her, ¡°Hey, Herellia. Have you be a true Sanguine Ruler?¡±

    ¡°Eh? Where did you hear about that?¡± Not expecting to be asked that, Herellia could not help but reply in a surprised tone.

    ¡°From the inheritance,¡± Aurus said without hesitation. Hearing that it came from the inheritance, Herellia then replied without hiding anything. ¡°Not really. I¡¯m only a Sanguine Ruler candidate.¡±

    ¡°To unleash that much power even though you¡¯re still a candidate¡­¡± Aurus could not help but mutter in awe. Eventually, he stopped thinking about it and moved back to the barrier. He looked at Herellia with an aura of slight confidence radiating from him, asking her, ¡°Herellia, do you think I could break that barrier?¡±

    ¡°Probably not,¡± Herellia replied. She then added, ¡°I already pushed myself to the limit with that attack. Unless¡­you have a trick up your sleeve?¡±

    ¡°Hehe,¡± Aurus replied to her words with a chuckle. After that, he thenmanded the system in his mind.

    ¡°System, summon Fenrir and Charisa.¡±

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    In an instant, two Inanimates manifested near where Aurus was, both of them radiating an aura that did not lose out to the Pir level members of the alliance. Not only that, but the aura they radiated seemed to have surpassed the aura radiated by the Pir level members, which made the alliance members look at them with an intense sense of curiosity.

    The first Inanimate that manifested near Aurus was a wooden sculpture of a wolf. This sculpture seemed to have been made by a great sculptor, with each area capturing the ferocity and regality of a wolf that led other wolves, a wolf king. Not only that, one could see a small crown on top of the sculpture¡¯s head as the sculpture glowed a faint green, its size being multiple times bigger than Aurus.

    As for the second Inanimate that manifested, one could see that its wooden body seemed to have been chiseled by a good sculptor, possibly mimicking the curves of a woman. But what stood out from this Inanimate was the mes that covered most of its body, with one side of it being mes that took on a white hue, and the other side taking on a ck hue. These mes covered her wooden body like a dress as the me on top of her head flickered between ck and white at times.

    After they manifested into existence, the two of them noticed where they were, hastily focusing their vision towards Aurus as an aura of subservience radiated from them.

    ¡°Charisa merei, at your service, Master.¡± The first one to talk was the Inanimate that was covered in mes.

    ¡°Fenrir Zephyron, at your service, Master.¡± Not long after, the wolf sculpture spoke as well, showing their subservience towards Aurus.

    Although Aurus went on and greeted them normally after that, he could not help but be inwardly shocked, especially at Fenrir. He inwardly said to himself, ¡®To think that Fenrir had gained hisst name after achieving X-grade Inanimate¡­he¡¯s gonna be an incredibly strong Ally then.¡¯

    Recalling what he knew about Allies back in his previous life, those that evolved to X-grade Inanimate with no name were the weakest allies one could obtain from the Ally Gacha. Those that had one name after reaching X-grade Inanimate were moderately strong, while those with a first andst name after reaching X-grade Inanimate would go on and be figures that did not lose out to yers back then. Not only that, but there were also rumors that those with a first andst name could go on and obtain a title, increasing their strength even further.

    ¡°How are you two doing?¡± Aurus asked them, with both of them replying along the lines of being bored and waiting for him to summon them. While they answered, he could not help but look into their current species, now realizing why Fenrir had obtained ast name after evolving to X-grade Inanimate.

    ________

    [Fenrir Zephyron]

    Species: Tempest Wolf Monarch Maximus (Epic)

    ________

    ________

    [Charisa merei]

    Species: Greater Treantis Formosus ¡ª Infernalis Charisadae (Epic++)

    ________

    After looking into their species, Aurus moved his train of thought back to the barrier that was blocking the entrance, while everyone else was awed by the appearance of these two Inanimates. Just as he was about to talk with Fenrir and Charisa about what they were going to do, Herellia could not help but ask Aurus through a strand of energy, ¡°Are these the Allies you speak of from your system?¡±

    ¡°Yeah, they are,¡± Aurus responded not long after through the strand of energy, letting out a small chuckle as he continued, ¡°And they¡¯ll allow me to unleash an attack that could probably break the barrier.¡±

    Cutting off the connection between him and Herellia, Aurus looked at Fenrir and Charisa with a slightly apologetic aura, saying, ¡°I apologize if the summoning was abrupt, but I need the two of you to help with something.¡±

    ¡°What is it, Master?¡± Fenrir was the first one to ask, with Charisa focusing her sense of vision towards the barrier blocking the entrance of the alliance. She then looked back at Aurus and asked, ¡°Master, are you asking us for help regarding that thing blocking the entrance?¡±

    ¡°Yeah,¡± Aurus responded to Charisa¡¯s question before adding, ¡°To break the barrier, we would need a lot of power. Remember what I asked the two of you while you two were grinding your skills in the Tower of Seclusion?¡±

    At that question, Fenrir and Charisa could not help but radiate an aura of slight excitement, with Charisa asking, ¡°Master, you mean¡­?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s exactly what you two are thinking.¡± Even Aurus could not help but radiate an aura of excitement, wondering as to how much power they could dish out.

    ¡°A fusion attack.¡±

 Chapter 174: Fusion Attack

    Chapter 174: Fusion Attack

    ¡°A fusion attack?¡± Listening to what the three of them were talking about, Herellia could not help but ask, attracting the attention of the three as they looked at her. With their attention on her, she decided to continue with her train of thought as she said, ¡°Is it like Code 3 wherein everyone pooled in their energy to form a single skill?¡±

    ¡°Code 3? Master, what¡¯s that~?¡± Charisa could not help but ask, to which Aurus promptly replied, ¡°Charisa, it¡¯s one of the skills of the alliance wherein they make arge barrier with the energy of multiple Inanimates.¡±

    ¡°Ahh, I see~!¡± Charisa said in response to Aurus¡¯s answer. Not long after, Aurus then turned to look at Herellia and replied to her question, saying, ¡°The fusion attack we have is a bit different from the fusion attack you know.¡±

    ¡°Although we do share our energy to form a skill¡­¡± Aurus said before adding, ¡°We also fuse our bodies into one.¡±

    ¡°Eh? What do you mean by that¡­?¡± Herellia could not help but ask, with indecent thoughts that she did not recognize popping up in her mind. In response to that, Aurus let out a sigh before saying, ¡°You know what? It¡¯s better for us to just show the fusion attack right now rather than exining it.¡±

    ¡°The earlier the barrier is broken, the better, right?¡± He then said to Herellia, radiating an aura of confidence.

    ¡°Well, yeah,¡± Herellia replied with an aura of affirmation radiating from her.

    Whoosh!

    After Herellia answered Aurus¡¯ question, Aurus disappeared in front of her field of vision in an instant, teleporting to an area near the barrier before starting to hover a few meters above the ground. Just as Herellia was about to focus her sense of vision towards where Aurus appeared, she could not help but feel a strong breeze near her, realizing that Fenrir and Charisa, the two allies Aurus had summoned, were hastily flying towards where Aurus was.

    It only took a few seconds for the two to arrive, with Fenrir positioning himself in front of Aurus while Charisa positioned herself behind him. Seeing as the two of them had positioned themselves exactly where they had to be in his memories, Aurus could not help but recall the time when he asked the two of them about fusion attacks.

    ¡­

    A couple of days ago, Tower of Seclusion.

    While Aurus was pondering as to what skills he could make into tricks that could turn the tides to their favor, he could not help but look at Fenrir and Charisa, who were arduously grinding their skills in silence. While looking at them, he could not help but recall the Ally system in his past life, as well as the multiple features that the Ally system had.

    Eventually, he remembered a certain feature of the Ally system that would easily be a great trick up his sleeve that could allow him to dish outrge amounts of damage. With that in mind, he decided to get closer to Fenrir and Charisa, interrupting them from their grinding for a while.¡±What is it, Master?¡± Fenrir was the first one to ask after being interrupted by their master. As for Charisa, she looked at their master with a curious expression.

    ¡°Have you two heard of fusion attacks?¡± Aurus asked the two of them. In response, both Fenrir and Charisa rummaged through the memories, eventually finding out that a certain part of their memories was solely dedicated to fusion attacks. With both of them radiating auras of affirmation, the two of them simultaneously replied, ¡°Yes, Master.¡±

    ¡°Could you two check what kind of fusion attack forms are avable for the three of us to use as one in your memories?¡± Aurus asked the two of them beforemanding the system to show him a list of fusion attacks that all of three of them could use. ¡°I just need to check if all of us have the same ess in terms of fusion attack forms. Also, make sure it¡¯s the strongest one.¡±

    Ding!

    A few secondster, a holographic screen appeared in front of Aurus¡¯ field of vision, giving him a broad list of fusion attacks he could use. Although the number of fusion attacks he could use was a lot, they were more or less subsidiary skills under an ultimate skill. These ultimate skills were the broad list of fusion attacks he could see, having the word ¡®Form¡¯ at the end.

    ¡°Tempest Gale Form is filled with fusion attacks that only needs me to fuse with Fenrir as the condition,¡± Aurus muttered before adding, ¡°And Void ze Form is filled with fusion attacks that only needs me to fuse with Charisa as the condition.¡±

    While reading through the broad list, Aurus could not help but recall what fusion attacks did back in ISE. ording to his memories, fusion attacks were the only attacks that Inanimates could do which would allow them to triumph over Pseudo-Animates, and possibly, Animates as well. He remembered that fusion attacks did not only fuse the energy of the yer and the allies into one big mass, it alsobined the stats of each being in the fusion attack in a multiplicative manner, which bridged the gap in terms of stats.

    Eventually, Aurus was finished recalling his old memories of great fusion attacks, looking at the four fusion attack forms that allowed him to fuse with Fenrir and Charisa together.

    ¡°Spiritas Magia Form, a form where I would be the main focus of the fusion.¡±

    ¡°Zephyrus Maxima Form, a form where Fenrir would be the main focus of the fusion.¡±

    ¡°And Infernalis Ultima Form, a form where Charisa would be the main focus of the fusion.¡±

    Aurus could not help but be disinclined to choose the first three forms, remembering that these fusion attacks had calctions and stuff behind them. Hemanded the system to show him the general form of power for these forms, disappointed at the power they could show.

    ¡°Let¡¯s see if thisst form is the same,¡± Aurus muttered, taking a short nce at Fenrir and Charisa to see if they were done searching through their memories. Seeing as they were not, Aurus then went on andmanded the system to show him the general form of power of thisst form. Aurus could not help but radiate an aura of satisfaction as he said to himself, ¡°This is the one!¡±

    ¡°Ignis Zephyr Anima Form, a form wherein the best qualities of each being would be bolstered to a superb extent,¡± Aurus read what was written on the holographic screen, closing the screen soon after. He firmly decided that this form would be the best form for him to use in the war.

    He then looked at Fenrir and Charisa once more, noticing that the two of them were looking at him, waiting for him to talk. And so, Aurus asked the two of them, ¡°So? What¡¯s the strongest form the two of you have in your memories?¡±

    Hearing this question, Fenrir and Charisa looked at each other for a while before looking back at Aurus and saying simultaneously, ¡°Ignis Zephyr Anima Form.¡±

    ¡°Nice,¡± Aurus said in response to their reply. He then told them, ¡°Could I ask you two to spare a bit of your time to be familiar with this form? We might need to use it in the war that¡¯sing soon.¡±¡±Not a problem, Master~!¡± Charisa was the first one to reply, with Fenrir saying not long after, ¡°As long as it helps the master.¡±

    With an aura of slight happiness, he then muttered to himself, ¡°I can¡¯t wait to see the power of this form.¡±

    ¡­

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    After making sure that they were positioned properly, Aurus then went ahead and shouted, ¡°Release your full aura!¡±

    Swoosh!

    In an instant, Fenrir and Charisa released an aura that was more or less on par with Herellia when she did not use her full power. As for Aurus, he released an aura that was akin to the sun in the sky, giving everyone that looked at the three the feeling that the barrier could probably be broken by these three. As for Herellia, she could not help but be dumbfounded at the aura Aurus was releasing, surpassing even her aura when she was at her peak a while ago.

    ¡°How much power have you hidden from us?¡± Herellia could not help but look at Aurus like some sort of monster, slightly angry at the fact that he did not show all of it earlier. Nevertheless, by how he acted around her, she could not help but feel that this move of his could probably allow them to break through the barrier.

    ¡°Activate your domain skills!¡± With their auras at full power, Aurus then shouted these words, prompting Fenrir and Charisa to shout their skills.

    ¡°[Kingdom of the Tempest Monarch]!¡±

    ¡°[Eternal Realm of Yin-Yang me]!¡±

    ¡°[Boundless Spirit Domain]!¡±

    Whoosh!

    At the very instant the three had activated their domain skills, rather than collide with one another, they instead fused as one, giving birth to a domain that exuded an intense aura of mes, storms, and energy. This domain then enveloped the three of them, to which Aurus hastily shouted, ¡°Now activate all of your status boosting skills!¡±

    ¡°[Tempest Monarch¡¯s Supremacy]!¡±

    ¡°[Tempest Monarch¡¯s Deification]!¡±

    ¡°[Yin-Yang me Ascension]!¡±

    ¡°[Divine Yin-Yang Orb Manifestation]!¡±

    ¡°[Grand Spiritas Deification]!¡±

    ¡°[One with the Divine]!¡±

    ¡°[Zenith Nihility Dash]!¡±

    ¡°[Dark Universal de]!¡±

    ¡°[Soul Transcendence]!¡±

    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!

    With each status boosting skill being activated, the aura radiated by the domain intensified in strength, with the status boosting skills used by Aurus giving the highest improvement to the aura¡¯s strength. At the exact moment the three of them were finished using all of their status boosting skills, the domain underwent a qualitative change, distorting into an orb that enveloped the three of them, with thendscape inside it being akin to an unending storm of chaos.

    At this point, all of the alliance members could not help but stare at this orb, feeling fear and hope from the aura radiated by this orb. Even Herellia, who could not believe that such an aura could reach this level, felt that this orb would allow them to break the barrier.

    ¡­

    On the other side of the barrier, Chonk, who wasmanding the members of his army to charge their ultimate skills, could not help but sense an aura that was radiating from the alliance base. Noticing this, he could not help but try and look closer at the origin of the aura, seeing that an orb that shifted between red, green, and ck, was hovering near the barrier.

    ¡°Oh no,¡± Chonk could not help but mutter to himself after he felt the aura that wasing out of the orb. The aura that was radiating from it far surpassed the aura the giant thorn radiated a while ago. He had a feeling that the aura radiated by this orb was around 30 to 50 times stronger than the previous one. With that in mind, he could not help but think pessimistically, asking himself, ¡°Is that¡­actually going to break the barrier?¡±

    He then looked at Horell and Chungus, who were busy charging their spells up behind him with an aura of concentration radiating from the both of them. He looked back at the orb, muttering, ¡°If that doesn¡¯t break through the barrier, then I could say without a doubt that we¡¯ve won the war.¡±

    ¡­

    With thendscape inside the orb being akin to a world of chaos, Aurus looked at Fenrir and Charisa with a serious aura surrounding him, while the two of them looked at him with an expectant aura around him, wanting to know what their next move was.

    ¡°Let us start the chant for the first move,¡± Aurus said in a serious tone before adding, ¡°Fenrir, you start.¡±

    ¡°Alright, Master,¡± Fenrir replied to his master¡¯s words before looking at the barrier in front of them. He then started to speak, ¡°As the origin of the Zephyr, I shall be the de that cuts through the world, slicing everything thates across my path.¡±

    Not long after, Aurus then said, ¡°As the origin of the Anima, I shall be the tyrannical pole that wields the de of destruction, allowing the de to sweep across the heaven and earth with power and finesse.¡±

    After Aurus was Charisa, saying, ¡°As the origin of the Ignis, I shall be the power that propels the pole forward, bing the envoy of judgment to those thate and hinder my path.¡±

    With Charisa finished with what she had to say, a few seconds of silence ensued between the three of them. After that, the three of them started to speak as one.

    ¡°With the Orb of Resolution as our overseer and power source, we shall now fuse as one, the power of Chaos and Order inherent in our every move.¡±

    Whoosh!

    After saying that, the orb that enveloped the three instantly shrunk in size, splitting up into three orbs that barely covered the bodies of Aurus, Fenrir, and Charisa. Not long after, as if it was done by the hands of a deity, the bodies of the three gradually transformed as the orbs were absorbed by their bodies.

    Whoosh!

    In an instant, Fenrir, who was at the front of the formation, hastily transformed into a sharp de that was about 50 centimeters long. On the dull end of it was a decently long piece of metal.Whoosh!

    Not long after, Aurus transformed into a pole, which wrapped around the long piece of metal that jutted out the dull end of the de, extending to a length of about a meter.

    Whoosh!

    And finally, Charisa transformed into what covered most of her body, mes. These mes emanated from the end of the pole, radiating a golden color. A secondter, these golden mes then started to envelop the pole, and soon enough, the de as well.

    Swoosh!

    After the golden mes covered the pole and the de, a strong breeze started to emanate from the tip of the de, taking on a light green color as it started to swirl around. It then went ahead and expanded to envelop the whole pole and de as well. Surprisingly, rather than sh with one another, the golden mes and the green breeze coexisted with one another, increasing the power of each as the aura radiating from this pole and de intensified even further.

    ¡°Ignis Zephyr Anima Form¡­¡± After all of that, the pole and de started to move back, increasing the distance between it and the barrier as the voices of the three started to resound throughout the alliance hall.

    ¡°1st Divine Art¡­¡± After increasing the distance between it and the barrier to its limit, arge jet of mes burst from the blunt end of the pole, propelling it at high speeds as the green breeze vigorously swirled at the tip of the de.

    ¡°[Fiery Tempest Naginata]!¡±

    Bang!

    ¡­

    ¡­

    ¡­

    Boing!

 Chapter 175: Imperium Orbis

    Chapter 175: Imperium Orbis

    ¡°Ignis Zephyr Anima Form¡­¡±

    ¡°1st Divine Art¡­¡±

    ¡°[Fiery Tempest Naginata]!¡±

    Whoosh!

    Akin to a shooting star darting across the night sky, a naginata covered in golden mes and green winds darted towards the barrier in a matter of an instant, making a streak of golden and green light as it collided with the barrier.

    Bang!

    At the moment it hit the barrier, unlike Herellia¡¯s attempt from before, the barrier instantly warped under the sheer force behind the naginata, as if the power of the naginata was more than enough to break through the barrier. Noticing this, Herellia could not help but radiate an aura of anticipation, muttering to herself, ¡°An attack like this¡­I hope it breaks the barrier.¡±

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    Golden mes continued to spurt out the blunt end of the pole, making the naginata push at the barrier as it warped more and more, its appearance akin to a reverse water drop. While this was happening, ripples of white light started to radiate throughout the barrier, with the point of contact between the barrier and the naginata¡¯s de as the origin.

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    On the other side of the barrier, Chonk, who was almost finished with his preparations for the second phase of Code Omega, could not help but sense an aggressive auraing from the alliance base, prompting him to turn around. At the very instant he turned around, he noticed what was happening to the barrier and could not help but feel intense trepidation as he watched.

    ¡°Is that¡­actually going to break through the barrier?¡± Chonk could not help but mutter to himself in doubt, vaguely seeing a weapon covered in mes try and pierce through the barrier, warping it to the maximum. To his eyes, it seemed as if the weapon only needed a little more force for it to finally pierce through the barrier and set the alliance free. Realizing this, he could not help but tell the members of his army, who had not finished charging up their spells, to hurry up so they could start the second phase.

    While doing so, he could not help but look up at the skies and utter in a begging manner, ¡°Heavens¡­if you truly want me to reach Rank 2, please tell me that this weapon wouldn¡¯t break through the barrier.¡±

    Fwoosh!

    As if the heavens had answered his statement, the momentum of the weapon as it tried to pierce through the barrier had abruptly stopped. Not only that, but the ripple of white light radiating from the barrier had stopped as well. A few secondster, the barrier had instantly reverted to its original shape as it flung the weapon back with a loud sound.

    Boing!

    ¡°¡­¡± Seeing this, Chonk could not help but be at a loss for words. He could not help but look up at the skies for a bit, thinking to himself, ¡®Did the heavens actually hear my prayers for once?¡¯

    He then blinked his eyes a few times, wondering if what he was seeing was an illusion. After finding out that it wasn¡¯t an illusion thanks to him being pestered by Horell and Chungus regarding the second phase of Code Omega, Chonk could not help but start chuckling. First, it was a soft chuckle of disbelief. Then gradually, it transformed into a loud cackle of arrogance as an aura of smugness radiated from his eyes. Still cackling, he shouted, ¡°To think that the heavens are on my side!¡±

    After that, he turned around to look at the members of his army and said, ¡°Theirst-ditch effort has be useless in front of [Maledictum ustra]! Once we start the second phase, victory is ours!¡±

    ¡°Victory for the army!¡± Not long after, almost every member of the army responded to Chonk¡¯s words. On the other hand, Horell could not help but feel a bit of fear as he looked at what had happened to the barrier a while ago. At first, he was quite hopeful that this attack would break through the barrier, even though he did not know which member of the alliance did it. Nevertheless, with the result of the attack in in sight, he decided to ce his hopes on Aurus, not knowing that he was the one who actually attacked the barrier.

    Utilizing the connection between the two of them, Horell sent a message to Aurus as Chonk started tomand a few members of the army.

    ¡­

    Bang!

    Thanks to the move the barrier did, the naginata was flung towards one of the walls of the alliance¡¯s main hall, bing stuck as it still emanated a few golden mes and green winds. Hearing the loud bang, all of the alliance members, including Herellia, could not help but let out a sigh either inwardly or outwardly. As for Herellia, she let out a sigh inwardly as she muttered while looking at the naginata, ¡°Even an attack like that¡­did not break the barrier?¡±

    ¡°If so¡­how much power would we actually need to break through?¡± At this moment, Herellia could not help but feel despair at the current situation. The aura radiated by the naginata a while ago had exceeded her previous aura by a lot, being tens of times more intense than hers. And even that could not break through the barrier? With that in mind, Herellia could not help but think that the Tempest Branch Alliance was actually going to be destroyed.

    On the other hand, a soft voice could be heard from the naginata.

    ¡°Ah, fuck.¡± This voice came from the pole portion of the naginata, who was none other than Aurus. At the moment, him, Fenrir, and Charisa were stuck on the wall due to their current form. Hearing their master curse out, Charisa, who was the golden mes emanating from the end of the pole, could not help but say in an apologetic tone, ¡°We¡¯re sorry for being too ipetent, Master!¡±

    Hearing that, Aurus could not help but reply, ¡°Charisa, it¡¯s not your fault.¡± Just as he was about to continue consoling Charisa, he then remembered about Fenrir and said, ¡°Fenrir, it¡¯s not your fault either.¡±

    Rather than feel guilty about them not being able to break through the barrier, Fenrir, who was the de stuck on the wall, could not help but think about why they could not break through the barrier from another perspective. After pondering for a bit, he then asked Aurus, ¡°Master, what if we use the other skills of the Ignis Zephyr Anima Form?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯d suggest not, Fenrir,¡± Aurus replied to Fenrir¡¯s suggestion. ¡°Although the 5th to 7th Divine Art would probably have enough power to break through the barrier, there¡¯s still a great emphasis on the word ¡®probably¡¯.¡±

    While telling Fenrir the reason why he was disinclined to do the other skills of the Ignis Zephyr Anima Form, Aurus could not help but think to himself, ¡®Ah, I¡¯m fucking stupid. Why didn¡¯t I summon more Allies until I reached the limit? If I had 5 Allies with me instead of 2, then I would¡¯ve surely broken through that barrier without a problem!¡¯

    Aurus knew very well that the strength of fusion attacks not only depended on the strength of the beings fusing as one, but it also depended on the number of beings fusing as one. The difference between the fusion of 3 beings and 4 beings in terms of power dictated whether that attack could kill a Pseudo-Animate or an Animate.

    Even though he was filled with slight regret over not summoning more Allies, Aurus did not dwell on the matter too much as he let out a sigh, willing the energy that was shared between them to split apart, letting them return to their original forms.

    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!

    It did not take long for the three tond at the center of the alliance¡¯s main hall, with Fenrir and Charisa positioning themselves behind Aurus like his bodyguards. As for Aurus, he did not mind this as he looked at Herellia and sighed before saying, ¡°Well, as you can see, we failed.¡±

    ¡°You gave your all,¡± Herellia replied to Aurus¡¯s words before letting out a sigh. ¡°That alone is enough.¡±

    As she said this, she could not help but look at the barrier and say with a slightly mncholic tone, ¡°Haah¡­to think there would be a day where the whole alliance would be wiped out.¡± She then looked back at Aurus and said with a slightly mncholic chuckle, ¡°As the strongest alliance in Tempest Cliff, it¡¯s quite ironic, isn¡¯t it?¡±

    ¡°Well¡­¡± Aurus ignored Herellia¡¯s words of mncholy as he pondered over the other methods he had to break through the barrier. Surprisingly, it only took a few seconds for him to formte a n. Looking at Herellia with an aura of slight excitement surrounding him, Aurus could not help but say, ¡°Herellia, I haven¡¯t told you this before, but¡­¡±

    ¡°Hm?¡± Herellia could not help but radiate an aura of curiosity as she listened to Aurus¡¯s words. After listening to the full exnation, she could not help but radiate an aura of intense shock as she softly shouted, ¡°That¡¯s killing two birds with one stone! Chonk and his army would have their psychological barrier crumble while we¡¯re prepared to retaliate.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯d still need the help of the alliance though,¡± Aurus said, knowing very well that Herellia had epted his n. ¡°Do we have any proficient illusionists that could cast a facade on the other side of the barrier, making it look like we¡¯re still here?¡±

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡± Herellia closed her sense of vision for a bit as she pondered. Not long after, she opened them as she replied, ¡°I¡¯ve called the top 5 illusionists in the alliance. Will they be enough for this n?¡±

    ¡°More than enough,¡± Aurus replied with the aura of excitement surrounding him intensifying. Just as he was about to tell the illusionists what they were going to do as they had just arrived, a familiar voice resounded throughout Aurus¡¯ mind. Hearing what the voice told him, Aurus could not help but chuckle as he imagined the shock on the body of the voice¡¯s origin.

    ¡°Hey Aurus, Chonk is going to start Phase 2 soon.¡± This voice said in Aurus¡¯s mind. This voice came from none other than Horell, who was a double agent for the Tempest Branch Alliance. Not long after, he added, ¡°Once Chonk shouts the phrase ¡®Tenfold Power¡¯, I¡¯m pretty sure the alliance is going to lose. Make sure to break through the barrier before he shouts those words.¡±

    ¡°Hehehe.¡± In response, Aurusughed at his words. He then said, ¡°I¡¯ll make sure the alliance breaks through before that happens. Not only that, but I¡¯ll also be giving you a big surprise you¡¯ll surely love.¡±

    ¡°Oh?¡± Horell could not help but say. ¡°What kind of surprise?¡±

    ¡°You¡¯ll have to wait and see~¡± After saying these words, Aurus then told Horell that he was going to break through the barrier, ending the conversation between the two of them. Not long after, he turned back to look at the 5 illusionists that had been called by Herellia to arrive at the center of the main hall.

    ¡°Alright, what I need you five to do is create a mirage on the barrier that would make it look like that we¡¯re still in the alliance,¡± Aurus said to the five before asking them, ¡°Can you five do that?¡±

    In response, the 5 illusionists looked at each other for a bit, exchanging strands of energy with one another for a while. After a few seconds, one of the illusionists rolled forward and said to Aurus, ¡°No problem!¡±

    ¡°Make sure to do it as fast as possible,¡± Aurus said to the five before they hastily rolled towards the barrier, creating a sheet of energy that draped over the barrier. A few secondster, a carbon copy of the image that could be seen from the outside was on this sheet of energy, making Aurus radiate an aura of happiness as he muttered to himself, ¡°Time for me to do my part.¡±

    Whoosh!

    Summoning all of the FP in the body, he transformed it into strands that extended out of his body before intertwining with one another as a ck light started to radiate from the center of the mass of strands. Not long after, he detached these mass of strands from his body, manipting it to settle on the ground at the center of the alliance hall.

    Vwoosh!

    In an instant, the ck light in the center had expanded to a great amount, emanating an aura that the ck light was connected to another part of the world. In actuality, that was indeed the case, with Aurus expending quite a decent amount of his FP to form another mass of strands outside the alliance base. Sensing that the connection between the two masses was sessful, he then shouted, ¡°[Lesser Portal Creation]!¡±

    Swoosh!

    In that instant, all of the remaining strands, which were not engulfed by the ck light, had been engulfed as the aura that emanated from it had intensified, attracting the attention of all the alliance members that were panicking as to how they would escape the alliance base.

    After making sure that the other side underwent the same phenomenon as well, Aurus then shouted without hesitation, ¡°Everyone! Enter the portal and we¡¯ll end up behind the alliance base! This will allow us to catch them off-guard!¡±

    Noticing that some members were doubtful as to whether the ck light in the center was a portal, Herellia continued where Aurus left off, saying, ¡°The orders of the Vice Leader are my orders. Enter the portal and we shall initiate Code 1, Phase 1.¡±

    ¡°If they¡¯re going to attack us with their full power, then let us attack with our full power as well!¡±

    ¡­

    On the other side of the barrier, while being unaware of what was happening inside the alliance, Chonk looked at the members of his army with great confidence, sensing the great aura of power that emanated from each one of them.

    He then turned around to look at what the alliance had done after that close escape, slightly surprised that the barrier was untouched after that. Seeing this, he could not help but feel that something bad was going to happen. Not long after, he suppressed this feeling and thought optimistically as he said, ¡°They just gave up on breaking the barrier. I¡¯m sure that¡¯s what they did.¡±

    After saying those words, he turned back to look at his army and took a deep breath. He then shouted, ¡°Everyone, release your skills!¡±

    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!

    In an instant, multiple rays of light that varied in sizes and colors started to shoot out of each member in the army, converging towards a certain spot above Chonk¡¯s head. A few secondster, two thicker beams of light shot out from Horell and Chungus, easily absorbing the power from the beams of the members as the two beams unified into a double-helix made out of light.

    With this double-helix floating in mid-air, Chonk then jumped up and shed out with his front paws, making the double-helix burst as the energy it contained covered a wide range, shrouding arge area with a faint white haze.

    Soon after, Chonk summoned all of the mana in his body and channeled it through his paws as he shed out yet again, allowing the white haze to absorb his mana as each member in the army felt themselves grow stronger.

    With the aura of power radiating from the members growing twice as strong, Chonk could not help but look at them with a satisfied expression on his face as he shouted, ¡°Code Omega¡­¡±

    ¡°Phase 2¡­¡±

    ¡°[Imperious Orbis: Onefold Power]!¡±

 Chapter 176: The Greater Threat

    Chapter 176: The Greater Threat

    While the war in the Tempest Cliff gradually unfolded as its climax got closer and closer, a different thing was happening in the Celestial ne, with a figure in a white dress speeding through space as she traveled towards a certain direction. On her hand was a dark orb that radiated an aura that was at the epitome of evil, an aura that could be akin to what could be felt at the core of the underworld.

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    This figure was none other than Shirohana, Kurohana¡¯s divine clone that was tasked to help Nix, the Hallmaster of the Hall of Greater Divinity, with the possible demon problem the Celestial ne was going to have. At this moment, she had justnded on the ground in front of the Hall of Greater Divinity, clutching the orb she held tightly as she muttered a few incantations while walking.

    Swoosh!

    In an instant, a white light covered the surface of the orb, making everyone that was in the Hall of Greater Divinity, who had felt an ominous aura from her a while ago, go back to what they were previously doing. With her not attracting the attention of everyone, she then made her way towards Nix¡¯s office, taking only a few minutes to arrive.

    Knock. Knock. Knock.

    Shirohana knocked on the door a few times, with each knock having a lot of force behind it. Due to the amount of force exerted, the sounds that were made could be heard from a decently far distance, which made some of the gods in the Hall of Greater Divinity look at her with a confused expression.

    ¡°Who is it?¡± Nevertheless, this was enough to attract the attention of the person on the other side of the door, who answered the knock before opening the door, revealing Nix, who had joined Shirohana while picking weapons quite some time ago.

    Seeing Shirohana in front of her office door, Nix could not help but be slightly surprised as her eyes widened. While looking at her, Nix could not help but think to herself, ¡®It has only been a few hours since she left Misha¡¯s ne to subdue the two Lesser Gods consumed by the demons. With that amount of time, was she actually able to obtain any information from them?¡¯

    While Nix was looking at Shirohana in a slight daze, Shirohana took the initiative to enter the office as she gradually pushed the door open before walking in. Nix, who had only snapped back from her daze after Shirohana had entered the room, could not help but let out a soft sigh before lightly smiling as she closed the door.

    Not long after, she sat behind her desk, looking at Shirohana, who sat across her desk. While looking at her, she could not help but notice the white orb Shirohana was holding, prompting her to point at it and ask, ¡°Shirohana, what¡¯s that?¡±

    ¡°This is something rted to the two Lesser Gods,¡± Shirohana replied with a light sigh before cing the white orb on the desk. ¡°I¡¯ve obtained a lot of information from fighting them, with the most important piece of information in that orb right there.¡±

    ¡°Hoh?¡± Nix could not help but ce her hand under her chin in slight curiosity as she looked at the white orb that was ced on her desk. She looked at it from different angles, wondering what was unique about the orb as she asked Shirohana, ¡°Let¡¯s save the orb forter, since you say it¡¯s the most important piece of information. Did you find out what type of sin possessed the two Lesser Gods?¡±

    ¡°From their fighting style, it was actually quite obvious, with them connecting through their private parts and all that,¡± Shirohana answered her question as she scratched her head. Not long after, she added, ¡°Anyways, it¡¯s the sin of [Lust] that had possessed the two. If you think about it, it kind of made sense since those two are a couple.¡±

    ¡°How about the grade?¡± Nix questioned further before adding, ¡°Did you find anything about the level of sin we¡¯re up against?¡±

    Click.

    After Nix asked her that question, Shirohana snapped her fingers as she muttered a few incantations in a hasty manner, with a few wisps of energying out of her mouth before being absorbed by the white orb on the desk.

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    In a matter of a second, Nix hastily found out that the orb was not purely white at all. Not only that, she hastily found out that the white light that covered the orb was also something that Shirohana had purposely done as an ominous aura emanated from the now dark orb, covering the room in an atmosphere that made the two feel like they were in the depths of the underworld.

    It did not take long for Nix to sense this aura, hastily making a few gestures with her hands as she covered the dark orb in the desk with a translucent barrier, limiting the aura of the orb to the desk itid upon. After doing so, she scrutinized the dark orb, eventually noticing that in the center of the dark orb was a dark sigil that was extremely familiar to her. While looking at the sigil, it invoked some dark memories from her past, a past that was filled with hardships and incessant fighting.

    After reminiscing about those bad memories for a while, Nix hastily ced them on the back of her mind as she could not help but look at Shirohana and ask, ¡°You do know what this is, right?¡±

    ¡°How could I not? I was also in the First Divine Demon War, remember?¡± Shirohana replied with a light sigh. ¡°Anyways, it¡¯s the Demon¡¯s Mark I¡¯ve obtained from the two. I was actually surprised that it was that condensed.¡±

    ¡°It would take me a while to find out what grade this sin is, but it would allow me to alert the Immortal Verdict Wielders and possibly even the Supreme Guardians about this matter, reducing the impact the demons would have on the Celestial ne,¡± Nix said after Shirohana replied to her question, grabbing a pair of ck-rimmed sses before wearing it as she started to lowly mutter some abstruse incantations.

    While muttering, Nix used a strand of energy to connect her mind with Shirohana¡¯s mind, allowing her to continue talking with her as she examined the Demon¡¯s Mark.

    ¡°Do you have any guesses as to what grade the sin in this Demon¡¯s Mark might be?¡± Nix asked through the strand of energy, with Shirohana replying not long after, ¡°I made a rough guess while I was on their ind, I hope it¡¯s not real though.¡±

    ¡°What do you mean by that?¡± Nix could not help but ask, sensing the faint aura of fear surrounding Shirohana.

    ¡°Deified Sin.¡± At the very moment she had uttered these two words through their connection, Nix could not help but stop in her chanting, looking at Shirohana with slight shock as she could not help but shout, ¡°Deified Sin?! You do know that the strongest sin we¡¯vee across in the First War is a Unified Sin, right?!¡±

    ¡°Of course, I know that,¡± Shirohana let out a long sigh as she responded. She then added, ¡°That¡¯s why I don¡¯t want the Demon¡¯s Mark inside the sin to be of that grade.¡±

    Hearing Shirohana¡¯s reply, Nix could not help but let out a sigh as well before returning to examine the orb, saying through the strand of energy, ¡°A Unified Sin is already at the level of a Greater God. A Deified Sin would already be at the level of an Immortal Verdict Wielder. Would the Celestial ne even be able to handle that?¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t know. I don¡¯t know at all.¡± As Shirohana replied to her question, she could not help but recall the memories of the First Divine Demon War in her mind, remembering the grueling experiments and sacrifices she had seen and done in order for the Celestial ne to survive the onught of demons. And that onught was only led by a Unified Sin!

    At the very moment she finished reminiscing, Nix had already finished examining the dark orb on the desk, dispelling the barrier that surrounded it before casting a shroud on the surface of the orb. Shirohana looked at Nix, wondering as to what grade of sin was in the Demon¡¯s Mark, only to find out that a frown was on Nix¡¯s face as she radiated an aura of slight fear.

    ¡°Nix¡­you don¡¯t mean¡­¡± Even though Nix did not say anything about it, Shirohana could not help but think that that was the case. In response to her words, Nix let out a long sigh as she opened a rift before cing the orb in there, closing it soon after. She then looked at Shirohana and said in a slightly disappointed tone, ¡°Shirohana, it seems we have to inform the Immortal Verdict Wielders about this. Perhaps, even the Supreme Guardians.¡±

    ¡°So¡­it is a Deified Sin?¡± Shirohana could not help but ask as she stood up from her seat, eliciting a slight nod from Nix in response. Noticing this, she could not help but let out a sigh before turning around to open the door to the office. She then looked back at Nix, who had already walked up behind her, telling her, ¡°Let¡¯s go together. I¡¯ll contact Khyzaar about this while you contact Phatia.¡±

    In response, Shirohana nodded to her words before dashing out of the Hall of Greater Divinity at her maximum speed, attracting the attention of a few gods in the hall that were minding their own business. A few secondster, Nix dashed out of the Hall of Greater Divinity as well, but this time, she attracted the attention of all of the gods in the hall, with most of them asking each other as to why the Hallmaster had left the Hall of Greater Divinity.

    Ignoring the banter between the multiple gods in the hall, Nix soon flew towards a certain area in space, meeting up with Shirohana before they headed towards a certain direction in the Celestial ne. The ce the two of them had in mind was a region wherein most Greater and Lesser Gods would avoid due to the sheer aura emanating out of it.

    Also known as the region where the Immortal Verdict Wielders, the Supreme Guardians, and even the Overseer resided, this region was known as the Divine Triad Pagoda.

    ¡­

    It took Shirohana and Nix to arrive at the boundary of the Divine Triad Pagoda half a day at their maximum speed, slightly trembling in fear at the very instant the aura from the region had enveloped their body. Fortunately, they only trembled for a short bit before getting used to the aura of the region, not hesitating to go deeper inside the region as they headed to one of the three pagodas in it.

    Around twenty minutester, they had finally arrived in front of this pagoda, with the pagoda radiating an aura of grandeur and regality as its appearance was akin to a pagoda fit for an emperor. Of course, this pagoda paled inparison to the two other pagodas in the region, with them being more grandiose in size and appearance.

    At the very instant they hadnded a few meters in front of this pagoda, a voice resounded from the pagoda, asking the two, ¡°What is your purpose foring here?¡±

    The two of them looked at each other for a bit, wondering as to who was going to answer this question. Not long after, Nix decided to step forward, retrieving the dark orb from the rift as she replied, ¡°We havee here to inform the Immortal Verdict Wielders about the possible onught of demons.¡±

    Not long after, she held this dark orb up, removing the shroud from it as an ominous aura instantly radiated from the orb, engulfing arge area around this orb in its aura. Enduring the ufortable feeling it radiated, Nix then said, ¡°This is our evidence. A Demon¡¯s Mark at the Deified Sin level. We have also concluded that there might be a chance for it to be a Primordial Sin in disguise.¡±

    Hearing that the Demon¡¯s Mark Nix held could be a Primordial Sin, Shirohana could not help but shudder in intense fear, not wanting to imagine the catastrophe brought about by a sin at that level.

    Fortunately, it did not take long for the voice in the pagoda to respond to Nix, hastily suppressing the aura on the orb while removing it from Nix¡¯s hand as it replied, ¡°The Immortal Verdict Wielders have taken notice of this, and will tell all of you the actions needed to be done once they have a n in mind. You shall be called by your respective Immortal Verdict Wielders in the future. You may now leave.¡±

    Seeing as the Demon¡¯s Mark had been taken by the pagoda, Nix and Shirohana looked at each other for a bit before deciding to leave the area just like what was advised by the pagoda.

    ¡­

    A few minutester after Nix and Shirohana had left the Supreme Divine Pagoda, a burly man was tossing a dark orb up and down as he walked towards a certain area of the pagoda. At the very instant he had arrived at the area he wanted to go to, he looked at the seven other people in the area with a grin as he threw the dark orb above their heads while saying, ¡°Hey guys, look at this!¡±

    Whoosh!

    After the dark orb was stuck in its position in mid-air, it radiated an ominous aura that alerted the seven other people in the area, prompting them to look at the burly man with a slight frown.

    ¡°Deschelon, you do know what you threw, right?¡± One of the men in the area, who had a slim body yet a dashing face, could not help but look at the burly man as he asked before sighing.

    ¡°I¡¯m pretty sure he does, seeing as a grin is stered on his face. All he knows is fighting, anyway.¡± Not long after, a woman with an immensely beautiful face started to speak, letting out a sigh as an expression of disappointment was stered on her face.

    ¡°Awe on, Khyzaar! You wield the Immortal Verdict of Chaos! Shouldn¡¯t you be happy about these things?¡± The burly man, whose name was Deschelon, could not help but look at the slim man with a grin.

    ¡°Happy? The fate of the Celestial ne is at stake, how could I be happy?¡± Khyzaar, the slim man, could not help but be angry at Deschelon. Just as he was about to continue berating Deschelon for his attitude about the whole matter, one of the men in the area radiated an intense aura that made everyone look at him with rapt attention.

    ¡°Lucidum, what¡¯s up?¡± Deschelon asked the man that radiated an aura as he entered the area before sitting down on the ground.

    ¡°I¡¯ve just obtained some bad news, guys,¡± Lucidum, the one who had attracted everyone¡¯s attention in the area, could not help but frown as he uttered some news to them.

    ¡°What kind of bad news?¡± This time, Khyzaar was the one who asked, to which Lucidum replied, ¡°It came from one of the Supreme Guardians.¡±

    At the mentioning of the Supreme Guardians, all of them went silent, letting Lucidum continue with the news he was about to tell. Sensing the serious auras surrounding them, Lucidum took in a deep breath before starting to ry the news.

    ¡°I¡¯ve just obtained information that the Demon¡¯s Mark that was just delivered to us is rted to the Primordial Sin that had attacked one of our outer regions a few years ago,¡± Lucidum said before continuing, ¡°This Demon¡¯s Mark came from a general under that Primordial Sin, who seems eager to wage war with the Celestial ne.¡±

    ¡°If it¡¯s a fight they want, then it¡¯s a fight they¡¯ll get!¡± After listening to the news, Deschelon grinned before shouting. Not long after, he asked, ¡°Which universe did the Primordial Sine from?¡±

    ¡°Immortalis Universe,¡± Lucidum replied to Deschelon¡¯s words, making everyone look like they had choked on something. A few secondster, Lucidum continued to talk amidst the silence, ¡°It seems the Immortalis Universe has intentions of assimting our universe into theirs.¡±

    ¡°Well then. Using the words from the Lesser and Greater Gods back then, it seems this Divine Demon War could possibly be ourst.¡±

 Chapter 177: Striking Fear

    Chapter 177: Striking Fear

    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!

    Not long after Herellia told all of the alliance members that Aurus¡¯s words were her words as well, all of them made their way towards their portal, still holding a bit of fear as to where it led them. Noticing this, Herellia let out a sigh inwardly as she started talking about how the portal was safe. Unfortunately for her, no one took the initiative to enter the portal. In the end, she decided to go and enter the portal first instead. She did not mind as she thought that this would allow her to initiate Code 1 faster anyway.

    Whoosh!

    With the apaniment of a soft sound of wind, Herellia jumped into the portal on her own ord, disappearing from the vision of all of the alliance members. Soon after, the alliance members that were around the periphery of this portal could not help but look at each other, deciding to jump into the portal together.

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    Eventually, everyone realized that they had no reason to be scared of jumping into the portal, entering it like the waves of a tsunami as Aurus watched them enter from the side. Before this, hemanded Fenrir and Charisa to stay inside the system until he summoned them out, to which the two had no qualms about. While looking at them from the side, he could not help but think about the next part of his ns, deciding to add Herellia¡¯s n of using Code 1 into the mix. After pondering over it for a while, Aurus realized that he was the only left in the alliance hall, making him lightly chuckle as he jumped into the portal like everyone else.

    Whoosh!

    It did not take long for Aurus to appear at the other side, with him appearing in front of what seemed to be the alliance members arranged in a semicircr formation. Aurus looked behind him and noticed that the portal was on the face of a stone wall, giving him a few ideas as to what to do next in his n. Nevertheless, he dispersed this portal soon after and turned around to look at Herellia, who flew towards him at the very instant he appeared.

    ¡°I¡¯ve never been to this part of the alliance base before,¡± Aurus could not help but mutter to himself as Herellianded beside her before adding, ¡°It¡¯s quite a beautiful sight.¡±

    Behind the semicircr formation of alliance members were trees that looked like they came out of paintings done by great artists,plemented by the hazy mountain view far away and the fluffy clouds in the sky. It made him want to yearn a faster end to this war, which would allow him to enjoy more picturesque sights like these.

    ¡°What¡¯s the next part of your n?¡± Noticing that Aurus was getting a bit offtrack, Herellia asked him this question to snap him back to his original train of thought, to which Aurus thanked him not long after.

    ¡°As I¡¯ve said before, I¡¯m going to use a hidden trump card of mine to break through the barrier,¡± Aurus replied to her question after recollecting his thoughts. In response to this, Herellia radiated an aura of curiosity around her as she asked, ¡°I¡¯m still curious as to what kind of trump card it is. Can¡¯t you tell me about it?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, it¡¯s not the right time yet,¡± Aurus let out a sigh before replying. He then pondered for a few seconds before replying, ¡°But if we win this war, I¡¯ll show you a glimpse of this trump card.¡±

    In response, Herellia answered, ¡°Okay then. Make sure you keep that promise.¡± She then focused her field of vision towards the semicircr formation, saying, ¡°Go and do what you have to do. I still have a ton to do to prepare Code 1. Plus, wouldn¡¯t it have better effect if both are used at the same time?¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s true,¡± Aurus lightly chuckled as he responded. Not long after, he emanated an aura of seriousness as he said, ¡°Once my preparations are done, I¡¯ll send a strand of energy to let you know that you should make a move.¡±

    ¡°Mm,¡± Herellia let out a grunt as a response. She then said, ¡°Let¡¯s hope everything goes well. For the survival of the alliance.¡±

    ¡°For the survival of the alliance,¡± Aurus muttered not long after before disappearing from the sight of all of the alliance members, including Herellia. A few secondster, Herellia let out a sigh before radiating an aura of seriousness as well, shouting at the alliance members, ¡°Everyone! Get into the arrow formation! Make sure to use your strongest skills for thisone!¡±

    ¡°We¡¯re going to blow Chonk¡¯s mind away!¡±

    ¡­

    On the other hand, oblivious to what had happened inside the Tempest Branch Alliance¡¯s base, Chonk looked at the members of his army, noticing the increase in the aura they radiated, being twice as strong than before. He then looked at Horell, noticing that there was only a slight increase to the aura he radiated, while he noticed that the increase in aura for him and Chungus was barely noticeable at all.

    With all of these thingsid out in front of him, he hypothesized that they would need to reach Fivefold Power if Horell¡¯s aura was going to be twice as strong, while for him and Chungus, he hypothesized that they would need to reach the highest level possible for [Imperium Orbis], Tenfold Power.

    Seeing as how everyone had adjusted to their newfound strength, Chonk looked at them and asked, ¡°Is everyone ready for the next level?¡±

    ¡°Yeah!¡± Unsurprisingly, the members of the army were addicted to the feeling of their newfound strength, giving them the feeling that they would be unhindered amongst the Inanimate existences in the world. Not long after, they charged up their ultimate skills yet again, shooting them out as they converged into one point before Horell and Chungus shot out tworge beams that transformed it into a double-helix yet again.

    After that, Chonk went through the process one more time, shing at the double-helix before spreading his energy throughout the area, instantly increasing the intensity of the aura of the members of his army by one more level.

    ¡°[Imperium Orbis: Twofold Power]!¡±

    Whoosh!

    While this was happening, Horell was thinking about another thing, looking at the entrance of the Tempest Branch Alliance¡¯s base from time to time, slightly anxious as to what had happened inside as he muttered to himself, ¡°I hope they didn¡¯t give up on this war.¡±

    Not long after, he felt the slight increase in his aura, hastily giving him a bit of inspiration as the anxiousness inside him had been washed away with slight confidence and hope.

    ¡°But if they did¡­¡±

    ¡°Then I shall rekindle their will to fight for survival!¡±

    ¡­

    Whoosh!

    With [Zenith Nihility Dash] not being deactivated, Aurus was able to teleport to the location he wanted to appear at in just one move. At the moment he appeared, Aurus looked around his surroundings and muttered to himself, ¡°As expected. This is truly an ideal spot for me to look at Chonk¡¯s army from afar.¡±

    The location that Aurus chose was in fact, the top of the alliance base. With trees and shrubs on the top of the alliance base, this allowed him to blend in with the surroundings so he could not be seen by Chonk¡¯s army. Of course, he also activated his morphing skill, transforming him into a mundane-looking stick that would not stand out against the surroundings¡­just to be sure.

    Rolling a bit forward to get a better view of what Chonk¡¯s army was doing, he then said, ¡°Alright, Phase 1 of the n isplete. Time for Phase 2.¡±

    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!

    Unbeknownst to the opposing army, eight soul balls, which surveyed over their territory a while ago, had now started to move closer to where they currently were. Naturally, these eight soul balls were the soul balls Aurus deployed a while ago, which he discarded after seeing the need to fluently control six beings at once, only to return it after obtaining the current [Pentatasking] skill.

    He made sure to not attract the attention of the opposing army as he moved these soul balls. Fortunately, it did not take him too long to realize the soul balls were too high up for the opposing army to even see, prompting him to move these soul balls at the fastest speed possible. After using up a few minutes to move these soul balls, Aurus radiated an aura of slight excitement as he muttered, ¡°Phase 2plete. Time for Phase¡ª¡±

    Whoosh!

    Just as he was about to start Phase 3 of his n, from the two perspectives he had of the opposing army, he could not help but notice that the aura radiated by each member of the army had intensified by a considerable level. Not only that, he noticed that it increased after a certain amount of time. With that in mind, he could not help but recall what Horell told him.

    ¡°Make sure to break the barrier before he shouts the phrase ¡®Tenfold Power¡¯!¡±

    ¡°Is this what Horell meant? The intensification of aura?¡± Aurus surmised that this was possibly the case. It was in line with what Horell exined to him about the three phases of Code Omega as well. With that in mind, he decided to keep a close eye on what level of increase they were at, manipting the soul balls to move to a lower altitude, which would possibly allow him to hear what Chonk says through [Unified Soul Control].

    After that, he then asked himself, ¡°What phase was I on again?¡±

    ¡°Ah, right. Phase 3.¡± Recalling what phase he was currently at, Aurus then hastily transferred his control to his clone, Argentum.

    Whoosh!

    ¡­

    ¡°It¡¯ll take a while for me to get used to this.¡± At the very instant control was transferred over Argentum¡¯s body, Argentum could not help but shudder a bit as he muttered to himself. Not long after, he stood up andmanded the system regarding his progress onpleting the Tempering skill.

    Ding!

    ¡°Hoh? An increase of 0.4 percent? That¡¯s quite nice,¡± Argentum could not help but say to himself in slight joy.

    After finding out that Chonk and his army were getting closer to the alliance base, Aurus hastily decided to transfer his control back to his original body while hemanded the system to let his clone increase his progress on the Tempering skill. Although the speed at which one cycle waspleted was slower whenpared to when he did it, Aurus¡­or rather, Argentum, was satisfied with this bit of progress.

    After standing up, he started to do some light stretching as it had been a while since he was in this body. Not long after, he then went to the main matter at hand, which was to break the barrier. Indeed, Argentum was his trump card to break through the barrier, which would inflict high psychological pressure to Chonk¡¯s army. Not only that, he thought that with Chonk and his army not knowing who or what broke the barrier, this would increase the psychological pressure they felt to incredulously high levels.

    He then spread the fingers of his right hand as he muttered the incantation for [Nature¡¯s Wind Bolt], a Level 0 Spell that dealt insanely high damage thanks to the difference in existence level. It did not take long for his right hand to glow white as he had gotten a taste of using the spell.

    ¡°Let¡¯s see if the damage is still the same,¡± Argentum muttered to himself as he extended his right hand towards the trunk of a tree before shouting, ¡°[Nature¡¯s Wind Bolt]!¡±

    Whoosh! Puu! Puu! Puu!

    And just like before, a bolt of white shot out of right hand, piercing through ten tree trunks before dissipating. Looking at it for the second time, Argentum let out a light chuckle of disbelief before saying, ¡°Even though I know it¡¯s a Level 0 Spell, I still can¡¯t believe the level of destruction it can inflict.¡±

    Soon after, he rubbed his chin with his forefinger and thumb while thinking about the possibility of him breaking through the barrier with the stats of his current body. While he was thinking, he could not help but think out loud as he started to mutter.

    ¡°The energy of a Pseudo-Animate, a Rank 0 Animate, and a Rank 1 Animatebining together to create a barrier that is nigh impossible for Inanimates to break through. With the difference in existence level between the three, wouldn¡¯t the limit of the barrier be equivalent to the average existence level of the three?¡± Argentum muttered to himself.

    ¡°In other words, the limit of the barrier is around the strength of a high-ranked Pseudo-Animate, or a Rank 0 Animate. And that means¡­¡±

    ¡°I can break through the barrier easily with my current strength.¡± Argentum let out a sigh of relief after calcting that he had more than enough power to break through the barrier. Nheless, he wasn¡¯t finished thinking as he said, ¡°Although [Nature¡¯s Wind Bolt] packs a lot of punch for a simple Level 0 Spell, the shock value of it is not high. It¡¯s not shy enough.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m still far away from unlocking a new spell, seeing as I need to reach a progress level of 15 percent.¡± Argentum let out a sigh. Not long after, he started to look back through the memories of his past life, wondering if there was something he could use to make his spells shy.

    ¡°Ah! That could work!¡± Fortunately, it only took him a couple of minutes of recalling to obtain what he needed from the memories, recalling a memory wherein a yer casted two of the same spells one after the other, making the two spells fuse with one another. With that in mind, he extended his right hand once more towards the trunk of a tree as he muttered the incantations of [Nature¡¯s Wind Bolt] again.

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    Not long after, he shouted the name of the spell, with a white wind bolt shooting out of his palm an instant after. But then, while the white wind bolt was traveling towards the trunk of the tree, he then extended his left hand and hastily chanted the incantation of the spell one more time, shooting out another white wind bolt towards the trunk of tree.

    Whoosh!

    Surprisingly, as the second white wind bolt followed behind the first one, it seemed as if the second white wind bolt had a strong suctioning force behind it as it absorbed the first white wind bolt in front of it, increasing the bolt¡¯s power, size, and most importantly, shiness.

    Fwoosh!

    With the fused white wind bolt now looking more like a white spear with wind swirling around its tip, it then pierced through the trunk of the tree without a problem¡­then ten¡­twenty¡­thirty-five. The energy behind the fused white wind bolt had been used up after it had pierced through the thirty fifth tree trunk, leaving Argentum at a loss for words at the power increase.

    ¡°One plus one doesn¡¯t equal to two in this case¡­¡± Argentum muttered as he wondered as to how much wind bolts he could fuse, and how much damage it would deal.

    Ding!

    Just as he was about to experiment with that in mind, he had obtained a notification from the system, prompting him to open up the notification screen. After reading through the notification screen, the aura he had radiated had done a 180 degree turn as he hastily sent his control back to his original body on the top of the alliance base.

    ¡°Well, well, well! To think the heavens haven¡¯t abandoned me!¡±

    Ding!

    ¡®The user has conjured the [Nature¡¯s Wind Spear] spell without relying on the mastery of the Tempering skill. Due to the conjured spell being close to the strength of a Level 1 spell, the system has increased the progress of the user¡¯s Tempering skill by 10 percent.¡¯

    ¡®The user has achieved 15% progress on [Divine Wind Spirit]. The user now has ess to the [Nature¡¯s Wind Vortex] spell.¡¯

 Chapter 178: Fear of the Unknown

    Chapter 178: Fear of the Unknown

    It did not take long for Aurus to transfer his control back to his original body, slightly shuddering for a couple of seconds before hastily teleporting to where his clone was without being seen by the opposing army. While teleporting, he made sure to appear in areas that allowed him to get a better sense of the aura that the opposing army was radiating. Alongside this was the fact that he manipted the soul balls that hovered over the army to lower in altitude even further, allowing him to listen to the shouts of Chonk far clearer than before.

    Whoosh!

    ¡°He just said Sixfold Power. I should hurry up a bit,¡± Aurus muttered to himself as he then put his full focus onto teleporting closer to his clone, taking only a minute to arrive near his clone¡¯s body this time.

    Whoosh!

    At the instant he had arrived, he could see his clone idly standing between multiple trees that had holes in their trunks. If it wasn¡¯t for that, it would look like his clone was waiting for him to arrive, wanting to finally end the war and reach the existence level of a God.

    Nevertheless, he still remembered what he had to do, hastily channeling a huge amount of FP from inside his body before transforming it into strands of energy that extended outside his body. Not long after, just like before, he manipted these strands to intertwine with one another as a ck light started to radiate from the center of this entanglement.

    He then continued to entangle the strands even further as he ced it on the ground near where his clone was. While he was doing this, he looked at the perspective his soul balls had, deciding on a location that was close enough for Argentum to hit the barrier on the alliance with his newly unlocked [Nature¡¯s Wind Vortex]. Fortunately, it did not take long for him to find a suitable location, being a concentration of trees around tens of meters away from the barrier that blocked the alliance¡¯s entrance.

    Whoosh!

    Not long after, from the perspective of the soul balls, he could sense a faint ck light radiating from the center of those trees, letting Aurus know that he had sessfully opened up a connection between the two. He then manipted the remaining strands of both portals to be engulfed by the ck light in the center, expanding the diameter of the ck light as the connection between the two portals had stabilized.

    After making sure that there were no problems with the portals, he then transferred his control back to Argentum¡¯s body, moving it to jump into the portal without hesitation.

    Whoosh!

    In a matter of an instant, Argentum had arrived in the area where he had ced the second portal earlier, allowing him to have a clear view of the barrier that was blocking the alliance¡¯s entrance, as well as a clear view of the opposing army whose auras seemed to be puny for his Animate self. Nevertheless, the aura Chonk radiated far surpassed what his body had radiated, mostly due to Chonk being a Rank 1 Animate while he was still a Rank 0 Animate.

    ¡°If only I had more time to train this body, then I might¡¯ve just gone ahead and used this body to end the war without a problem,¡± Argentum said to himself before letting out a sigh. After arriving near the alliance barrier, he then sent his control back to his original body, making it teleport back to the top of the alliance base before passing the control back. Surprisingly, this process only took a couple of minutes, but it was more than enough for the aura radiated by the army to increase by onefold as Chonk shouted the phrase ¡°Sevenfold Power.¡±

    ¡°Judging by the speed at which Chonk increases the intensity of their aura by onefold, I still have around six minutes to prepare before I hit the alliance barrier in order to inflict high psychological pressure to the army,¡± Argentum muttered as he went over the n in his mind one more time.

    What he was nning to do was to hit the barrier at the very instant Chonk was about to finish shouting the phrase ¡°Tenfold Power¡±. He noticed that the increase in intensity had only solidified after Chonk had said those words, even though the increase could be felt even before that. Six minutes was more than enough time for him to look at the spell he had obtained a while ago.

    Ding!

    ________

    [Nature¡¯s Wind Vortex]

    MP Cost: 7 MP

    A Level 0 Spell inclined towards the Wind element. Its more known variant is the [Wind Energy Vortex], a spell that allows those that learn the magic arts to cast a vortex of wind that could dealrge amounts of damage on a great area. Although the normal variant is known more for its level of destruction, this variant takes it one step further as its appearance has transformed into something that¡¯s more akin to fireworks, distracting enemies due to the beauty of the attack.

    The spell¡¯s damage depends on the caster¡¯s Intelligence stat, as well as various skills that enhance Wind-based abilities and spells.

    ________

    ¡°Since it uses over twice as much MP than [Nature¡¯s Wind Bolt], surely more of its energy would be redirected towards damage instead of shiness, right?¡± Argentum could not help but ask himself as he pondered over some what-ifs. In the end, his heart was settled as he muttered to himself, ¡°If else, I¡¯ll just use it before sending [Nature¡¯s Wind Bolt] afterward. I wonder if they¡¯ll fuse?¡±

    While specting as to whether the two spells would fuse, he eagerly watched over Chonk¡¯s army as he waited for Chonk to be close to reaching Tenfold Power.

    ¡­

    While Aurus¡ªor rather, Argentum was waiting for Chonk to ¡®finish¡¯ his second phase of Code Omega, a slightly tyrannical aura was radiating from the backside of the alliance base as a branch with red carvings all over its body stood in front of an arrow formation of sticks and saplings.

    Of course, the branch with red carvings was none than Herellia, who had ordered the arrow formation of sticks and saplings to use their strongest skills. Not long after, she had ordered them to aim these skills towards her, telling them that this would increase her power to a level they had never witnessed before.

    These orders were all in line with the first phase of Code 1, which was actually a code made by Herellia in the case where they needed a lot of power as fast as possible. Unlike Chonk¡¯s Code Omega, Code 1 only had two phases: the charging stage and the berserk stage. At the moment, Herellia was starting the charging stage.

    ¡°Fire!¡± Herellia shouted without hesitation as she hovered a few meters off the ground, allowing those at the back of the arrow formation to still shoot her.

    Pew! Whoosh! Boom! Zoom!

    Attacks of various colors and styles had soon erupted from the arrow formation, all of them heading towards Herellia¡¯s floating body in a sh.

    Just as it looked like Herellia was going to resist these attacks with her body, numerous amounts of blood-red strands manifested from her body, extending towards the direction of the attacks as she manipted these strands to arrange them in the appearance of a blooming flower as dark red energy started to circte throughout her body.

    While she circted this dark red energy, she could not help but think about how she had relied a lot on Aurus for most of this war, slightly feeling bad that she delegated Aurus to a lot of the tasks that would allow their alliance to have an advantage over this army. With this in mind, the dark red energy circting in her body took on a deeper shade, being closer to ck than red in a matter of an instant.

    Not long after, she then channeled this energy towards the blood-red tendrils that were going to tank the attacks sent out by the alliance members, with the blood-red tendrils radiating an aura of tyrannical might as the aura surrounding Herellia¡¯s body gradually grew weaker.

    ¡°Guh.¡± Herellia could not help but lightly grunt after having a bit of her power be redirected towards the blood-red tendrils. ¡°I seriously don¡¯t like using this.¡±

    ¡°But since Aurus has shown his full power in front of all of us, why don¡¯t I show him the alliance¡¯s full power as well?¡± Nevertheless, she endured the feeling of growing weaker as the attacks finally collided with the blood-red tendrils. Surprisingly, the blood-red tendrils did not break down from the multiple and incessant attacks of the alliance members. Instead, the blood-red tendrils had absorbed the energy from these attacks, gradually increasing the intensity of the aura radiated by the blood-red tendrils as Herellia muttered, ¡°[Forbidden Sanguine Arts].¡±

    ¡°[Power Siphoning]!¡±

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    Eventually, the aura radiated by the blood-red tendrils had be so intense that they had nowhere to go other than Herellia¡¯s body, returning Herellia¡¯sbat power back to normal in a matter of seconds. A few secondster, her power had increased to twice her normalbat power¡­then thrice¡­five times¡­ten times¡­

    It did not take long for Herellia¡¯sbat power to reach a level that made the alliance members, who were not even close to her aura, shudder in fear as she manipted the energy in the blood-red tendrils she had made to enter her body.

    ¡°[Forbidden Sanguine Arts: Blossom Augmentation].¡±

    Whoosh!

    At the very instant all of the energy inside the blood-red tendrils that had withstood the attacks made their way towards Herellia¡¯s body, the aura that she radiated had instantly increased to 30 times of her normal aura, giving her the feeling that she could kill all of the Inanimates in Chonk¡¯s army with one skill without a problem. Noticing the auras radiated by the alliance members as they looked at her, she then hastily suppressed this aura to tolerable levels as shended on the ground.

    Still feeling the newfound strength coursing throughout her body, she could not help but wonder what reaction Aurus would have once he found out that she was dishing out damage that could probably already be at the level of a Pseudo-Animate. This ponderation of hers made her radiate an aura of slight excitement and anticipation as she muttered to herself, ¡°I hope we can show Code 1 as soon as possible. I seriously want to see the aura he radiates once he finds out how strong I¡¯ve be.¡±

    She then realized that she had gone off track from her previous train of thought, muttering to herself not long after, ¡°Well¡­I hope we can show Code 1 as soon as possible so the war ends early as well.¡±

    ¡­

    Around five minutes have passed since Argentum had arrived near the alliance barrier, waiting for Chonk to shout the phrase ¡°Tenfold Power¡± so he could fire [Nature¡¯s Wind Vortex] and [Nature¡¯s Wind Bolt] towards the barrier, breaking it and inflicting immense psychological pressure to Chonk.

    At the moment, Argentum was watching the opposing army charge up their skills as the aura they radiated was a far cry from what it was before. The army had finally passed through Ninefold Power, which meant that this was thest boost in terms of power they would get before the third phase of Chonk¡¯s Code Omega starts. Although Argentum knew for a fact that the third phase would happen sooner orter, he was going to make it happen at thetest time possible.

    Whoosh!

    Not long after, all of the members in the army, save for Horell, Chungus, and Chonk, had fired out their strongest skills, converging towards a certain spot in the air above Chonk¡¯s head. Noticing this, Argentum then made his way closer to the barrier, traveling about a few meters as he muttered the incantation for [Nature¡¯s Wind Bolt].

    Swoosh! Swoosh!

    Just as the spell was ready to be thrown towards the barrier, he then saw that Horell and Chungus had fired out their strongest skills as well, transforming the convergence in the air into a double-helix of light. Without hesitation, he threw the spell towards the barrier as he silently shouted the spell¡¯s name.

    Whoosh!

    At the very instant he threw the white wind bolt in his hand, he then ced both hands in front of him as he hastily muttered the incantations of [Nature¡¯s Wind Vortex].

    ¡°Veritas Opensei Flora Maxima.¡± These were the words he muttered as Chonk had jumped in mid-air and swiped down on the double-helix, breaking it into multiple particles that spread all over the area.

    ¡°[Nature¡¯s Wind Vortex]!¡±

    Whoosh!

    Fortunately for Argentum, even though it was the first time he had cast the spell, he was able to send it out before the white wind bolt could reach the alliance barrier, allowing the vortex, that had taken on a white color as well, to fuse with the bolt as it transformed into what seemed to a be white drill that was surrounded by a green swirl.

    ¡°[Imperium Orbis: Tenfold Pow¡ª¡± Just as Chonk was about to say the final stage of the second phase while radiating an aura of intense confidence and pride, he noticed that a bright white drill hastily made its way towards the barrier of the alliance, easily breaking it as if the barrier was some fragile ss.

    Bang!

    Apanied by a loud explosion sound, the barrier that was hindering the members of the Tempest Branch Alliance had been broken just like that. In a matter of an instant, the aura of confidence and assurance that they would win the war, which circted amongst almost all of the members of the army, was instantly crumbled after seeing the barrier blocking the entrance breaking with just one attack.

    Of course, the most shocked out of everyone in the army was Chonk, who had the best vision out of all of them, noticing that the inside of the alliance base waspletely devoid of any Inanimate. At this moment, he could not help but hold intense fear for the Tempest Branch Alliance while wondering as to who or what had the ability to break the barrier, even though all of the members of the alliance had already escaped before that.

    ¡°They¡¯re not there¡­¡± Chonk could not help but mutter. Not long after, he shouted, ¡°They¡¯re not there!¡±

    Without hesitation, Chonk turned around to look at his army with intense fear in his eyes as he shouted, ¡°Change of ns!¡±

    ¡°After finishing the second phase, we shall not move ahead to the third phase!¡±

    ¡°Before starting the third phase, initiate Code Beta!¡±

    ¡°Who knows when the Tempest Branch Alliance might attack us!¡±

 Chapter 179: Otherworldly Visitor

    Chapter 179: Otherworldly Visitor

    Since Argentum was close to the barrier, which in turn allowed him to hear the words Chonk shouted after he broke the barrier, he could not help but madlyugh at the sess of his n. Not only that, since he had another perspective of the army through the soul balls, he also saw the expression of fear on Chonk¡¯s face from a top-down view, making himugh even harder as he watched Chonkmand his army to move farther away from the barrier.

    Eventually, Argentum let out a sigh of contentment as he sat down on the ground as he muttered to himself, ¡°And with that, I think I can call Herellia and the other alliance members to surround Chonk¡¯s army. Since they¡¯re going to distance themselves from the barrier thanks to my intervention, this would allow Herellia and the alliance members to have more time¡­I think.¡±

    ¡°Does the alliance have members that can allow other members to teleport?¡± While Argentum was wondering about this in his mind, a notification sound resounded throughout his mind as a holographic screen appeared on his screen not long after. This notification sound stopped his train of thought, prompting him to look at the text on the holographic screen in front of him. It did not take long for Argentum to be shocked as a halo of green light gradually manifested over his head.

    Noticing this, he could not help but mutter to himself in slight wonder, ¡°Who knew that fusing low-level spells would increase the progress of mastering a Tempering skill by a lot?¡±

    Ding!

    ¡®The user has conjured the [Nature¡¯s Wind Drill] spell without relying on the mastery of the Tempering skill. Due to the conjured spell having the strength of a simple Level 1 spell, the system has increased the progress of the user¡¯s Tempering skill by 15 percent.¡¯

    ¡®The user has achieved 25% progress on [Divine Wind Spirit]. The user now has ess to the [Tempest¡¯s Envoy] spell.¡¯

    ¡®The user has achieved 25% progress on [Divine Wind Spirit]. The second Tempering process shall nowmence.¡¯

    Not long after he finished reading through the text on the screen, the halo of green light over his head started to intensify in brightness as it gradually increased its speed of rotation. Eventually, the halo of green light had reached a peak, bringing up a small hurricane as it instantly shrunk in diameter, passing through his forehead as a plethora of Wind energy particles started coursing throughout his body one more time.

    Fortunately, since he was still at war, unlike the first Tempering process, the second Tempering process took less time, taking around thirty seconds at most for all of the cells in his body to be more inclined towards the Wind element.

    Ding!

    ¡®The user has undergone the second Tempering process. Intelligence has been increased by 3 points, Vitality has been increased by 1 point, and Agility has been increased by 2 points. The user must reach 50% progress in the Tempering skill to undergo the third Tempering process.¡¯

    With the Wind energy particles dissipating in his body after enhancing the build of his cells, he stood up and moved his body in a few bizarre ways, allowing him to know the minute improvements he had obtained in the Agility and Vitality stat. As for the increase in Intelligence, he started calcting in his mind once more, finish his test a few secondster as he let out a satisfied sigh.

    ¡°This Tempering skill is seriously great,¡± Argentum said to himself with a light smile. He then muttered, ¡°Once this war is over, I¡¯m seriously going to enhance this Tempering skill to its limit.¡±

    ¡°Speaking of which, what¡¯s the [Tempest¡¯s Envoy] spell about?¡± Thinking about the spell he had acquired just a while ago, hemanded the system to show the spell¡¯s description, which made his eyes widen as he let out a grin. Not long after, he thought about the possible ways he could maximize the effects of the spell as he muttered to himself, ¡°Man, this new spell is just like the [Tempest Burst] spell I had back then. Speaking of which, I wonder what happened to that skill. Did it disappear after I evolved my movement skill?¡±

    ¡°Anyways, I¡¯ll leave this body here for now,¡± Argentum continued to mutter as he decided to pass the control back to his original body, only taking a few seconds to do so. ¡°I should tell Herellia to make a move now.¡±

    Whoosh!

    With the control back at his original body, which had been camouged on top of the alliance base, he hastilymanded the alliance system in his system to connect him with Herellia as he gradually adjusted himself to his body. Fortunately, thanks to Herellia being vignt for any message Aurus would send her, the connection between the two had been sessfully made in the first instance.

    ¡°You finally called, Aurus,¡± Herellia said with a slightly joyful tone through the connection.

    ¡°I apologize for taking a while.¡± Hearing Herellia¡¯s tone, Aurus could not help but talk in a joyful tone as well while apologizing. Not long after, he added, ¡°Anyways, I¡¯ve already done what I did. It¡¯s time for the alliance to ambush Chonk¡¯s army.¡±

    For some unknown reason, rather than responding to his statement, Herellia lightly coughed in response for a bit. Just as Aurus was about to ask if she was okay, Herellia finally talked, saying, ¡°Alright. We¡¯ll be there as soon as possible. I¡¯d like it if you cornered Chonk before Ie there. Also, leave the members of his army alive.¡±

    With him hearing Herellia¡¯sst statement, Aurus could not help but be confused as to why she would make such a request. Fortunately, Herellia answered his doubts before he could ask them, adding on, ¡°You¡¯ll see whyter.¡±

    ¡°Alright then,¡± Aurus responded to Herellia¡¯s request before letting out a soft sigh. After that, he cut off the connection between them as he used the soul balls he was manipting to check in on Chonk¡¯s army, which was getting closer and closer to the territory they were residing at a while ago. Although Aurus thought that the distance made was too much for him, once he thought about it from Chonk¡¯s perspective, he thought that this distance did make sense, since a magic spell with that kind of power could probably be shot from a long distance.

    Nheless, with this level of distance, Aurus did not have to worry about getting found by Chonk¡¯s army, disabling his morphing skill as he summoned Fenrir and Charisa out of his system once more.

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    A few secondster, a wolf sculpture and a curvy stick covered in mes appeared to his left and right, both radiating subservient auras as they simultaneously said, ¡°Master.¡±

    ¡°Sorry for abruptly keeping you two in the system back then,¡± Aurus could not help but radiate an aura of guilt as he looked at the two, thinking about what he had done while the whole alliance was still inside the hall. Fortunately, the two were understanding, with Fenrir replying, ¡°Nothing to worry about, Master. You wanted to make the job of teleportation easier, thinking that it would be easier to just keep us two in the system in the chance you needed us.¡±

    Hearing Fenrir¡¯s response, Aurus radiated an aura that was akin to being cared for. A few secondster, Charisa looked around the surroundings with her field of vision, noticing that they were outside the alliance base. With this in mind, Charisa looked at Aurus and asked, ¡°Master, why are we here? And why did you summon us?¡±

    ¡°We¡¯re finally going to attack the opposing army,¡± Aurus said as he radiated an aura of excitement. Not long after, he looked at the two of them and said, ¡°Since the other alliance members are at the back of the alliance base, it¡¯ll take a while for them to arrive near Chonk¡¯s army. In other words, we¡¯ll be the first few Inanimates toe close to Chonk and have a bout with them.¡±

    He then took a look through the soul balls and noticed that they stopped retreating, stopping at an area that was only a few meters away from the territory they resided at. From the looks of it, it seemed that they were going to finally finish the second phase, prompting Aurus to say to both Fenrir and Charisa, ¡°Of course, we can¡¯t juste there without being as menacing as possible, right?¡±

    ¡°Let¡¯s activate the Ignis Zephyr Anima Form. As for the move we¡¯ll use, we¡¯ll think about thatter.¡±

    With their master telling them that they were going to do a fusion attack again, Fenrir and Charisa radiated auras of excitement and happiness as they positioned themselves ordingly. Seeing that they were eager to do a fusion attack as well, Aurus radiated a slightly intensified aura of excitement as he shouted, ¡°Activate your aura skills!¡±

    ¡°Let¡¯s surprise Chonk¡¯s army!¡±

    ¡­

    On the other hand, Chonk and the army radiated auras of slight fear, with Chonk radiating the most intense aura of fear amongst them. Although it was just a single move, the thing broken was still the culmination of the energy of three beings that were at the existence level beyond an Inanimate. He could not help but wonder if the alliance they were fighting against had a few connections to some strong Animates, making Chonk slightly regret the fact that he wanted to wage war with such an alliance.

    Nevertheless, what¡¯s done is done and all he could now was to make sure that this strong Animate did not interfere with his army while fighting against the Tempest Branch Alliance. Thinking that the distance between the alliance base and the army was sufficient, Chonk let out a sigh of relief as the state of his mind gradually turned better. He then turned around to look at his army and said, ¡°Let¡¯s continue where we left off.¡±

    ¡°Start the final part of the second phase!¡±

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    And just like that, all of the Inanimates in Chonk¡¯s army started charging their strongest skills one more time, shooting them towards a certain ce in mid-air over Chonk¡¯s head. With all of the beams shot out by the Inanimates converging in one ce, Horell and Chungus followed up with their own strongest skills as well, shooting out beams of their own towards where the beams converged, transforming the energy that condensed in that certain spot into the shape of a double-helix.

    As usual, Chonk went ahead and destroyed this double-helix with his front paw, allowing the particles that made up this double-helix to spread throughout the surroundings as the aura of the army intensified by a notch. A few secondster, Chonk circted the energy inside his body and then spread it out towards the surroundings, solidifying the aura that every member had.

    ¡°[Imperium Orbis: Tenfold Power]!¡± Shouting this phrase, Chonk let out a long sigh of relief, thinking that the gap of strength between his army and the Tempest Branch Alliance had lessened, even if it may be just a little bit. Just as stated before by him, before starting the third phase of Code Omega, he decided to begin Code Beta first, sending a strand of energy towards Chungus with the message, ¡°Chungus, can you go to the magic circle you made and wait for my signal? Code Beta is just a fancy name I made up for the Grand Restriction spell you have.¡±

    ¡°Ah?¡± Although the request was sudden, Chungus decided that it would probably be better for him to stay away from the war anyway. Even though he was hired by Chonk to fight in this war, he would rather stay safe from harm rather than be riddled with wounds all over. ¡°Alright, then. Just send a strand of energy once you want me to activate the spell, okay?¡±

    ¡°Mhm.¡± And with that, after Chonk eded to Chungus¡¯s request, Chungus then turned around and started hopping to where the magic circle he made was. A few minutes had passed by with nothing happening, making Chonk think that the alliance was probably going to give up in the war until¡­

    ¡°And I thought we would arrive here before they could finish powering up.¡± A decent distance away from Chonk¡¯s army, a voice started speaking, which made Chonk look at the direction of this voice. He could not help but radiate an aura of killing intent as he looked at the three Inanimates that were gradually getting closer to where his army was.

    ¡°Hoh? A few members of the Tempest Branch Alliance deciding toe closer on their own ord? I must apud you for your bravery.¡± At the instant the three Inanimates had arrived in front of Chonk¡¯s army, Chonk could not help but radiate a haughty aura as he spoke in a slightly cold manner. Surprisingly, although he spoke in this manner, the feeling he had inwardly was vastly different from his exterior.

    ¡®What the heck? The aura they¡¯re radiating far surpasses the aura the Inanimates of my army are radiating! Now that I think about it, the aura they¡¯re radiating is extremely close to intensity to Horell¡¯s! Is this the trump card of the alliance?¡¯

    ¡°Why apud us for our bravery?¡± In response to Chonk¡¯s words, a glowing wooden sculpture replied to his statement, lightly chuckling as it added, ¡°Don¡¯t you think you should be mad at us for having your six division leaders die from your paws? Oh wait, it was just five.¡±

    Listening to one of the Inanimates¡¯ response, Chonk could not help but grit his teeth in anger, coldlyughing as he shouted, ¡°Oh? So you three were the ones who forced me to kill myself important members of my army?¡±

    ¡°Nah.¡± In response, the glowing wooden sculpture moved forward by a bit. It then responded, ¡°That was all me.¡±

    In that instant, the expression on Chonk¡¯s face, as well as the emotion he was feeling inside had be simr.

    Immense rage.

    ¡°Why you¡­!¡± Just as Chonk was about to hit the glowing wooden sculpture with his front paw, an aura that slightly exceeded the aura radiated by the three Inanimates could not help but make him stop in ce, looking at where the new aura hade from. At the moment he looked, he said, ¡°Are you going to stop me, Herellia?¡±

    In front of his field of vision was a branch covered to the brim with red carvings, radiating an aura that did not lose to the auras radiated by the three Inanimates that hade before her. Of course, this was none other than Herellia. She responded to Chonk¡¯s question, saying, ¡°I have all reasons to. He¡¯s the vice leader of my alliance, after all.¡±

    After that, she looked at the glowing wooden sculpture with an aura of immense confidence before saying, ¡°Aurus, since you¡¯ve shown me your full power. How about I show you the full power of the alliance?¡±

    ¡°[Forbidden Sanguine Arts]¡­¡±

    ¡°[Crimson Spirit Incarnation]!¡±

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    In that instant, the aura radiated by Herellia had intensified by tens of times in an instant, dwarfing the auras radiated by Aurus, Fenrir, and Charisa, who were the three Inanimates that came before her. A few secondster, the aura that surrounded Herellia took on a crimson shade as her body gradually morphed into a humanoid shape.

    In response to this urrence, Aurus only had one thing to say.

    ¡°Omg.¡±

    ¡­

    While the war of Tempest Cliff was urring, a rift had abruptly opened up in the boundary of the Tempest Cliff.

    Whoosh!

    Not long after, a mosquito the size of arge spider had exited this rift, looking at its surroundings with a curious yet confused expression. After looking around its surroundings, it could not help but mutter to itself, ¡°Eh? This ce doesn¡¯t really suit the feeling of a cultivator¡¯s inheritance. Is this seriously the inheritance of that secluded cultivator?¡±

    Just as he was about to go ahead and wander around the whole Tempest Cliff, its senses could not help but pick up multiple faint yet intense auras shing with another, making it radiate an aura of curiosity as it started pping its wings towards the auras.

    ¡°Is this seriously the ce of a cultivator¡¯s inheritance? From the auras I¡¯m feeling, I feel like that isn¡¯t the case.¡±

    ¡°Nevertheless, it¡¯s kind of exciting.¡±

 Chapter 180: Crimson Spirit, Infernal Spirit

    Chapter 180: Crimson Spirit, Infernal Spirit

    While Shirohana and Nix were in the Divine Triad Pagoda reporting the Demon¡¯s Mark to the Immortal Verdict Wielders, a goddess had changed her mind in a certain part of the Celestial ne.

    ¡°A Primordial Sin¡­¡± This goddess could not help but mutter as she looked at the orb floating in front of her, going over the new memories that had entered her mind as her clone was currently in the Divine Triad Pagoda.

    Indeed, this goddess was none other than Kurohana. She was currently thinking about what she could change in Aurus¡¯s fate after finding out this new information.

    ¡°We only fought against a Unified Sin back then, and that alone was enough to destroy a huge part of the Celestial ne where the Lesser Gods resided. If the sin leading this time is a Primordial Sin, then¡­¡±

    As she continued to think about it deeper, she could not help but bite on her lips as she continued to watch what was happening on the orb. Currently, the image on the orb was of Aurus and the other Inanimates around him being trapped inside a secluded hall. A few secondster, Aurus had shown strength that far surpassed his existence level while a unique and tyrannical aura surrounded his body.

    Surprisingly, this move Aurus had done gave her a new choice to take in her mind, which seemed to be the best course of action for her with the information she had received as ofte. A few secondster, Kurohana formted a n in her mind that would enhance Aurus¡¯ strength in the future, which in turn would increase her strength in the future as well.

    After solidifying this n, she then hastily asked the gods and goddesses that controlled over thews she needed for the n to allow her to control a small portion of it for a certain amount of time. Fortunately, it did not take long for the other gods and goddesses to ede to her request, with Kurohana gesturing with her hands a few secondster as strands of energy with various colors started to manifest around her body. Unsurprisingly, thews she temporarily gained ess to all revolved around fate.

    ¡°Let¡¯s see¡­back then, I was pursuing the pinnacle of speed,¡± Kurohana muttered as she started to fuse some of the energy strands into condensed strands, with thews inside them fusing as one. ¡°Since the Celestial ne is up against a Primordial Sin this time, it would be better for the weapon to be great in all areas, possibly pursuing the pinnacle of everything. Speed, destruction, defense, and flexibility¡­yeah, that could work.¡±

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    Not long after, she sent a few condensed strands of energy towards the orb in front of her, changing the atmosphere inside the orb quite a bit. Kurohana watched what happened on the orb for a while, letting out a smile after she saw that Aurus used a portal spell to let them escape the secluded hall they were in before going ahead and controlling his clone to destroy the barrier to inflict psychological pressure on the enemy they were fighting up against.

    ¡°I¡¯ll just dy it for a bit more time. I¡¯ll have him win this war for now.¡± Kurohana then sent out a few more condensed strands of energy, all of which were silver in color. After being absorbed by the orb, she then used her temporary control over the Law of Destiny to check the fate Aurus would meet along the line, content with the fact that she was able to pull in a living being from another world. She was also content with the fact that the being she had summoned was not too powerful considering the strongest entity in the war.

    She then manifested a few more strands of energy, cing a finger under her chin as she pondered over what kind of fate Aurus would have to face for him to be the strongest evolving weapon at the lowest grade possible. She brought the orb closer to her, gesturing with her hands here and there as she scrolled over the world of Erudinia, looking for the perfect situation that would do just that.

    Fortunately for her, she noticed that an aura of multiple waves shing against each other was radiating from a certain kingdom not far away from where Aurus was, making Kurohana lightly smile as she muttered, ¡°Although it would be better if that certain kingdom would capture Aurus, it¡¯s still a kingdom from another continent. I¡¯ll choose this kingdom for convenience¡¯s sake. Then again, I could just refine him once he bes a weapon, it¡¯s not really a problem for me. I just have to exert a bit more effort, is all.¡±

    ¡°Then again, a war for the throne¡­oh? It seems that there¡¯s another being that has a Perfect System in the kingdom?¡±

    At this moment, Kurohana could not help but lick her lips before saying, ¡°Interesting.¡±

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    And with that, she then sent out all of the strands that hovered around her towards the orb, changing quite a lot of things in the world of Erudinia, all of the elements having something to do with Aurus. Using her temporary control over the Law of Destiny once more to see Aurus¡¯s fate, she nodded in contentment and lightly grinned after finding out that the change she brought to Aurus¡¯s system would happen along the line as well.

    Even though Kurohana knew that this change would make Aurus weaker in the short-term, in the long-term, this would allow Aurus¡­well rather, his clone, to be incredibly strong amongst same-leveled beings before reaching the existence level of Godhood.

    Letting out a sigh of relief after making sure that all of her maniptions were correct, she then rxed her body on the chair she was sitting on, panning the image on the orb back to the Tempest Cliff, with the image on the orb being Aurus breaking the barrier that secluded them a while ago with his clone. With that, Kurohana could not help but smile as she muttered, ¡°Affinity, system, and production.¡±

    ¡°Those changes are surely more than enough to bring a great boost in strength to Aurus,¡± she added not long after before pondering over something. It did not take long for her to finish pondering, with her muttering once more, ¡°Once Shirohanaes back, I¡¯ll probably go pay a visit to Misha.¡±

    ¡°I should add the power of purification on Aurus. Combine it with that skill and he¡¯ll truly be considered as my magnum opus!¡±

    ¡­

    XXXX Continent, Tempest Cliff, slightly far away from the base of the Tempest Branch Alliance.

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    ¡°Omg.¡± Aurus could not believe what was happening to Herellia. Even Chonk, who was on the opposing army, was not expecting this to happen as well, with his mouth agape at Herellia¡¯s transformation. Then again, almost everyone in the opposing army could not help but have auras of shock radiating around them¡­except for Horell.

    ¡°Phew.¡± Horell could not help but let out an inward sigh of relief after seeing that Herellia¡¯s will to fight was still at its peak. Not only that, Aurus, who came before Herellia, also radiated an intense will to fight, making him feel more at ease. Nevertheless, he could not help but be in awe while looking at Herellia activate [Forbidden Sanguine Arts: Crimson Spirit Incarnation], reminiscing about the previous time she had activated this skill, which established her ce as the leader of the Tempest Branch Alliance.

    ¡°Back then, she only had a few skills fired at her, and that was enough for her to send all of the Pir level members flying with a single move.¡± While Horell was watching Herellia transform, he could not help butpare the aura of the current Herellia and the past Herellia. ¡°How many skills were fired at her before the transformation? I¡¯m pretty sure she would be on an equal level with me¡­no. She could even be on a level higher than me!¡±

    ¡°Oi.¡± Just as Horell was about to go down a rabbit hole of power levels, a familiar voice resounded in his mind, prompting him to look at the glowing wooden sculpture near Chonk.

    ¡°What is it, Aurus?¡± As he replied to Aurus¡¯s call, Horell could not help but give him a look of gratitude as he asked.

    ¡°I have a strong feeling that Herellia¡¯s transformation would wipe out all of the Inanimates in your army, leaving you and Chonk as the remaining survivors of her onught,¡± Aurus replied to his words, with Horell bing inwardly shocked.

    Just as he was about to ask further, Aurus continued to talk through their connection, saying, ¡°In other words, that would make Herellia a target of Chonk¡¯s rage. Now, we don¡¯t want that to happen, do we?¡±

    ¡°And with that, I¡¯ll be transforming as well.¡±

    ¡°¡­¡± Hearing Aurus¡¯s statement, Horell was left at a loss for words, not knowing what to say. Aurus revealing the fact that he could transform like Herellia was a big shock to him, with the only syble he could utter out in reply being, ¡°Eh?¡±

    Ignoring Horell¡¯s state of being dumbfounded, Aurus continued to disseminate his ns to Horell, telling him, ¡°Before I transform, I¡¯ll tell Herellia to only attack half of the army while she leaves another half to me, leaving Chonk with no choice but to target us at the same time. I¡¯ll also tell Herellia about the second phase of this n after I finish transforming. In other words, prepare to be attacked by either me or Herellia. We don¡¯t want to give away the idea that you¡¯re actually on our side, right?¡±

    Although Horell was at a loss of words, he was eventually able to process Aurus¡¯s words, replying with, ¡°Ah. Gotcha. Does that mean I have to attack you two as well?¡±

    ¡°Of course!¡± Aurus said in a slightly excited tone. ¡°Don¡¯t worry about us being injured from your attacks. Herellia has her unique ways to survive such an attack, while I have my unique ways as well. Just focus on continuing the illusion that you¡¯re Chonk¡¯s loyal servant that will fight to the bitter end.¡±

    ¡°Okay.¡± With Horell¡¯sst reply, Herellia had finally finished transforming, taking on the appearance of a female humanoid that was made up of crimson-red energy. In actuality, such a being could only exist in ces that had an intense concentration of blood energy. These beings were only known as Crimson Spirits.

    ¡°Raaaa!¡± Herellia let out a cry in her Crimson Spirit form, instilling greater fear into the Inanimates of Chonk¡¯s army while Chonk felt intimidated from the cry. She then started to walk closer towards Chonk¡¯s army, with the intent of absorbing the vitality of all the Inanimates in the opposing army, which would allow her to have a greater chance of winning against Chonk.

    Unfortunately for her, just as she was about to continue walking, a voice resounded in her mind, prompting her to stop in her tracks, leaving Chonk with a confused expression.

    ¡°Herellia, can you hear me?¡± This voice was none other than Aurus¡¯s, wondering if Herellia had lost her mind after transforming.

    Fortunately for him, Herellia replied without a hint of going berserk, saying, ¡°Mhm. I¡¯m just keeping up a facade that I¡¯ve gone berserk. You¡¯ve kind of broken it though.¡±

    In response, Aurus let out an awkward chuckle as he pondered as to how he was going to phrase what was on his mind. A few secondster, he said, ¡°Err¡­I apologize for that then. Anyways, can I oblige you to just attack around half of the Inanimates in Chonk¡¯s army? Also, please move while we¡¯re talking.¡±

    ¡°Ah, right.¡± After hearing Aurus¡¯s timely reminder, Herellia started to move closer to the opposing army in an imposing manner, giving the Inanimates a feeling that they couldn¡¯t escape her clutches. While this was happening, she pondered over Aurus¡¯s words and replied, ¡°Although the amount of power I could obtain would be less, I guess I can do that. Anyways, what for?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll attack the remaining half so that Chonk would have no choice but to target both of us at the same time,¡± Aurus responded to her question before adding, ¡°Before you ask me that I wouldn¡¯t have enough defense to withstand his attacks, I¡¯ll use a fusion attack to take on the same form as you.¡±

    ¡°You can do that?¡± Herellia was slightly bewildered, pondering over the possible things that could happen along the line as she waved one of her arms up in the air, manifesting a few thick blood-red tendrils that headed towards a few Inanimates. Of course, due to the fear that she had instilled in them, the Inanimates were too afraid to move that it looked like they had no choice but to be hit by the blood-red tendrils, with the tendrils siphoning all of their power, slightly increasing the intensity of Herellia¡¯s aura in the process.

    ¡°Yeah,¡± Aurus replied to her words before sending out a message to both Fenrir and Charisa, who were behind him all this time. It did not take long for the two to position themselves on both sides of Aurus, with Aurus taking a nce at Chonk while this was happening. He felt a slightly malicious energying from Chonk, prompting him to say to Herellia, ¡°Also, watch out for Chonk. I¡¯m pretty sure he still has tricks up his sleeve.¡±

    ¡°Got it.¡± After Herellia replied to Aurus¡¯s words, the connection between the two had been cut, with Herellia¡¯s speed going up a notch as she waved both of her arms at the same time, allowing her to attack more Inanimates at once. Surprisingly, even though Chonk was seeing his men die in front of him, he did not retaliate at all. Noticing this, Aurus had a feeling that something bad was going to happen to him and Herellia sooner orter.

    Nevertheless, this did not stop him from continuing with his n, sending messages to both Fenrir and Charisa at the same time as he told them, ¡°Chant for the fifth skill! Charisa, you start!¡±

    Rather than respond to her master¡¯smands, Charisa hastily started chanting the incantation of the fifth skill, saying, ¡°As the origin of the Ignis, I shall be the body that wields unending destruction, razing everything to the ground with the mes of the infernal realm as the great being.¡±

    Not long after, Fenrir followed up on Charisa¡¯s words, saying, ¡°As the origin of the Zephyr, I shall be the limbs of the body of the infernal realm, allowing the great being to show the intrepid strength and agility of the infernal realm.¡±

    And finally, Aurus started his part of the chant while looking at Chonk, who still had not made a move after having a quarter of his army killed by Herellia. Although the ominous feeling he felt from Chonk had intensified, he continued with his chant, saying, ¡°As the origin of the Anima, I shall be the driving force of the body of the infernal realm, letting the great being exert the superb power of chaos with every movement.¡±

    ¡°We sacrifice our bodies to the infernal realm. Let chaos and destruction originating from the infernal realm tarnish this very world we live in!¡± At the instant the three of them had said this statement at the same time, the three of them had instantly transformed into blobs of energy, fusing as one as they took on a humanoid shape. A few secondster, this humanoid-shaped energy had solidified, radiating the energy of mes, winds, and the void at the same time.

    ¡°[Ignis Zephyr Anima Form].¡±

    ¡°[5th Divine Art].¡±

    ¡°[Infernal Spirit Manifestation]!¡±

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    Without hesitation, Aurus, who controlled the majority of the Infernal Spirit they had transformed into, ran towards the other side of the opposing army, raising his right arm as he manifested multiple orange mes covered in green swirls around him. Not long after, he waved his right arm, sending the orange mes towards the Inanimates as it incinerated their bodies in a matter of an instant.

    And with that, two Pseudo-Animates, a Crimson Spirit and an Infernal Spirit, started wreaking havoc on Chonk¡¯s army, killing off the Inanimates that were a part of Chonk¡¯s army one by one as they gradually grew stronger with time. Meanwhile, Chonk was looking at how much members of his army were remaining, muttering to himself, ¡°Just a little bit more¡­¡±

    At this moment, he had discarded the idea of proceeding with the third phase of Code Omega since the third phase ultimately relied on the number of Inanimate members he had. But since the two Pseudo-Animates, who were just Inanimates a while ago, were wreaking havoc on his army, he decided to fight with his full power¡­after weakening them, of course.

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    Eventually, all of the Inanimates in his army had been destroyed by either the Crimson Spirit or the Infernal Spirit, with the remaining members in his army being him, Horell, and Chungus. Normally, amander of such an army would surrender to the opposing army as they knew that it was nigh impossible for them to make aeback.

    But since Chonk was a Rank 1 Animate, he still had a feeling that he could do the impossible.

    The Crimson Spirit and the Infernal Spirit looked at Chonk with expressions of immense arrogance and pride, with the Infernal Spirit saying in a hoarse voice, ¡°You only have two members left, Chonk. We have won this war. Give up your dreams of ruling over Tempest Cliff.¡±

    ¡°Heheheh¡­¡± In response, Chonk started to chuckle, which gradually intensified to augh, before turning into a maniacal cackle. He then looked at the two Pseudo-Animates in front of him with an expression of arrogance of his own, saying, ¡°Are you really sure that your alliance has won the war?¡±

    ¡°What do you mean by that?¡± This time, it was the Crimson Spirit who talked. It then added, ¡°Don¡¯t delude yourself, Chonk. You¡¯ve lost almost all of yourbat power. Just give up.¡±

    ¡°You wish!¡± Chonk shouted in response to the Crimson Spirit¡¯s words before adding, ¡°Chungus, activate the magic circle!¡±

    Whoosh!

    In an instant, arge area that enveloped Chonk, Horell, Aurus, and Herellia had been created, with both Aurus and Herellia feeling that theirbat power had grown considerably weaker. Noticing this, the Infernal Spirit could not help but look at Chonk with anger as it shouted, ¡°Chonk! What did you do to our bodies?!¡±

    ¡°[Code Beta: Grand Restriction],¡± Chonk replied to the Infernal Spirit¡¯s words, letting out a chuckle before he added, ¡°Quite a perfect situation, don¡¯t you think? Two beings from the alliance, and two beings from my army. 2v2.¡±

    ¡°Since you two have shown your full power to me, let us show our full power as well then!¡±

    ¡°[Zephyr Lupus Overdrive]!¡±

 Chapter 181: Lies and Deceit

    Chapter 181: Lies and Deceit

    <strong>¡°[Zephyr Lupus Overdrive]!¡±</strong> Chonk shouted after activating [Grand Restriction], radiating an aura of intense pride and confidence while doing so.

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    Not long after, Chonk¡¯s fur started to glow a faint green as the Wind energy particles within a certain radius around him started to congregate, transforming into tangible particles as they made their way towards Chonk¡¯s fur, sticking on his fur before hardening, transforming into an armor that protected most of his body.

    Surprisingly, this armor intensified the aura Chonk was radiating by a few notches, making Aurus and Herellia, who had already transformed into Pseudo-Animates, feel a sense of slight fear whenever they looked at his body. Of course, they suppressed these feelings as much as possible, remembering that Chonk was the only barrier hindering the peace in Tempest Cliff.

    ¡°Fear me, weaklings!¡± Chonk said with a haughty expression on his face. ¡°This armor has allowed me to fight against Rank 2 Animates without losing!¡±

    While listening to Chonk, Aurus thought that he had turned into one of those annoying characters in the novels he used to read back then. As of present, Chonk seriously resonated with the characters that exined every move they were doing in his mind. Even though Aurus found it annoying, this was a chance for them to find out the intricacies of the [Grand Restriction] spell.

    ¡°bbering won¡¯t get you anywhere,¡± Aurus, who was currently controlling the Infernal Spirit, said haughtily in response as he charged towards Horell with his right fist clenched. Not long after, golden mes started to manifest around the fist, giving one the idea that Aurus was going to use the power of the sun to incinerate Horell to death.

    On the other hand, Horell saw this attacke for him, making him freeze up in fear as he knew that this attack would undoubtedly kill him in one hit. Fortunately for him, just as the attack was about to hit him, a gust of wind hastily enveloped Horell, sending him a few meters back as a being took over his ce, swiping with its paw in retaliation.

    Whoosh! Bang!

    At the very instant the attacks collided, a loud explosion had urred, with one of the two beings sent flying for tens of meters. Herellia, who was currently a Crimson Spirit, watched this scene unfold from a certain distance, her mouth turning agape as she could not believe the gap the two had in terms of strength.

    ¡°Gah!¡± A loud shout could be heard while it was apanied by the sound of something hitting the ground. Not long after, the sounds of hissing in pain could be heard as the being that was sent flying stood up and looked at the one who retaliated against its attack. ¡°Don¡¯t you dare use underhanded tricks in front of us, Chonk!¡±

    Unsurprisingly, the one sent flying was the Infernal Spirit, radiating an intense aura of rage as it stared at Chonk from afar, who was currently inwardly ted at the increase in strength [Zephyr Lupus Overdrive] had given him. In actuality, Chonk had no idea as to how much of an increase the skill would give him, saying those words to inflict a bit of psychological pressure on the two.

    Hearing what the Infernal Spirit shouted, Chonk could not help but cackle as he replied, ¡°All is fair in war!¡±

    Whoosh!

    While Chonk wasughing, the Crimson Spirit decided to make a move, reducing the gap between them in an instant as multiple blood-red tendrils started to manifest all over her body. She then manipted these tendrils to attack erratically as it replied to Chonk¡¯s statement, saying, ¡°All is fair in war indeed!¡±

    <strong>¡°[Crimson Rain]!¡±</strong>

    Bang! Bang! Bang!

    In that instant, multiple blood-red tendrils tried to pierce through Chonk¡¯s body, creating a sound that was simr to a firing machine gun. Unfortunately, just as the Crimson Spirit thought that its attack had worked, Chonk let out a grin as the armor on his body glowed, a wave of Wind energy particles radiating outwards not long after.

    Boom!

    ¡°Guh!¡± Just like the Infernal Spirit from before, the Crimson Spirit was sent flying for tens of meters as the blood-red tendrils that had manifested all over its body started to disintegrate as it fell to the ground with a thud.

    Looking at the results of the attacks of the two Pseudo-Animates, Chonk could not help butugh loudly once more as he yelled, ¡°Useless! Incredibly useless! Unless you dispel [Grand Restriction], your attacks shall be useless in front of me, Chonk!¡±

    While Chonk continued to maniacallyugh, Horell, who was moved by Chonk to a safe distance a while ago, could not help but look at the Crimson and Infernal Spirit with worry. Just as he was about to send a message to Aurus as he wondered if he was safe, a familiar voice resounded in his mind, saying, <em>¡°Don¡¯t worry about us. We¡¯re fine.¡±</em>

    <em>¡°It doesn¡¯t look like it though!¡±</em> Horell could not help but reply with a hint of worry.

    <em>¡°Trust me, Horell. We¡¯re fine,¡±</em> the voice replied not long after. Of course, this voice came from none other than Aurus. After saying that, he asked Horell, <em>¡°I think I¡¯m pushing my luck here, but do you know anything about the [Grand Restriction] spell Chonk used?¡±</em>

    Letting out a soft sigh of disappointment, Horell replied, <em>¡°Unfortunately, Chonk kept me in the dark from this matter. Should I ask him about it?¡±</em>

    <em>¡°Nah, don¡¯t,¡±</em> Aurus replied to Horell¡¯s suggestion with disagreement before adding, <em>¡°It would just make Chonk suspect you even more. We¡¯ll try our best to get information from him. By the looks of it, he¡¯s bing drunk with power after activating that skill of his.¡±</em>

    <em>¡°What should I do, then?¡±</em> Since Horell could not ask Chonk regarding the [Grand Restriction] spell, he wondered as to how he could help the two in obtaining the information they needed.

    <em>¡°Hmm¡­¡±</em> While Aurus was pondering, he had already moved to where Herellia hadnded. The two of them talked about a few things through strands of energy, making sure to be covert while doing so. Eventually, Aurus and Herellia finished talking, with Aurus sending a response to Horell not long after.

    <em>¡°Try to make Chonk not fight as much as possible since we¡¯re more or less powerless against an Animate. Even more so with the spell activated. In other words, volunteer to fight against us since we¡¯re under the [Grand Restriction] spell. Make sure to use all of your buffs to reduce suspicion¡­unless he tells you to not use them.¡±</em>

    <em>¡°Alright then,¡±</em> Horell eded to Aurus¡¯ request, slowly making his way towards Chonk, who was still savoring the feeling of strength flowing all over his body.

    On the other hand, Herellia and Aurus watched Horell¡¯s movements, with Herellia asking Aurus, ¡°You think this will work?¡±

    ¡°Hopefully,¡± Aurus replied to Herellia¡¯s question. He then added, ¡°Let¡¯s get closer to Chonk though. We have to make sure that Chonk has no choice but to let Horell fight in his stead.¡±

    ¡°Mm.¡± After responding to Aurus¡¯s words, the two of them started to move closer to Chonk, radiating an imposing aura along the way. Of course, the aura they radiated did not go unnoticed, with Chonk snapping back from his savoring session as he noticed that the two of them were only a few meters from them.

    Unfortunately for Chonk, just as he was about to go ahead and charge at them with a swipe of his paws to increase the advantage of their side, a strand of energy was sent to him, prompting him to look at the Pseudo-Animate that had appeared beside him. Of course, this Pseudo-Animate was none other than Horell.

    <em>¡°Master, would you allow me to fight against these fake Pseudo-Animates?¡±</em> This was what the strand of energy contained, the strand that prompted Chonk to look at Horell. Just as Horell felt that Chonk was about to say no, Horell followed up with another strand of energy, saying,<em> ¡°Master, wouldn¡¯t it be better for me to exhaust their energy so they cannot retaliate against your attacks? Not only that, but I also have a feeling that Master does not want to waste too much energy in this war.¡±</em>

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡± Chonk pondered over Horell¡¯s words for a bit, with some of the words resonating with him. Fortunately for Horell, Chonk agreed to his suggestion, sending a strand of energy that said, <em>¡°Well, you¡¯re not wrong. If you think you can call kill them, then kill them. If not, just exhaust their energy as much as possible.¡±</em>

    Chonk then sent another strand of energy as a continuation to the previous statement, saying,<em> ¡°Of course, never underestimate them even though they¡¯re under the [Grand Restriction] spell. Even though theirbat power has been considerably weakened, they still dealt a bit of damage to the armor I¡¯m wearing.¡±</em>

    While he eded to his ¡°servant¡¯s¡± request, Chonk loudlyughed to attract both Aurus¡¯s and Herellia¡¯s attention, shouting, ¡°You better be grateful that Horell here is going to attack in my stead. Oh right, wasn¡¯t he a part of your alliance back then? Think of this as a reunion then! A reunion where the only memory you¡¯ll make is despair!¡±

    Whoosh!

    Not long after uttering those words, Chonk went ahead and hastily moved far away from the three, closing his eyes as an ominous aura gradually radiated out of his body. On the other hand, Horell looked at Herellia and Aurus with an aura of malicious intent surrounding him.

    <strong>¡°[Mana Ascension].¡±</strong>

    <strong>¡°[Will of Nature¡¯s Mana].¡±</strong>

    <strong>¡°[One with Mana].¡±</strong>

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    In an instant, the aura Horell was radiating had easily surpassed the aura Herellia and Aurus were radiating, with himughing in a slightly malevolent manner before saying, ¡°Herellia. Aurus. It¡¯s quite nice to see you again.¡±

    ¡°To think that you¡¯ve defected from the alliance to help such a tyrannical being.¡± Herellia was the first one to respond to Horell¡¯s words, her tone having a hint of disdain. ¡°Are you satisfied with the choice you¡¯ve made?¡±

    ¡°Why wouldn¡¯t I be? Master is far more powerful than you, Alliance Leader,¡± Horell replied to Herellia¡¯s question with a hint of a mocking tone at the end. ¡°This is farewell for the two of you.¡±

    After saying what he had to say, a ball of silver light manifested over Horell¡¯s head, gradually growing in size as the aura it emanated intensified alongside the increasing size. Both Herellia and Aurus could not help but look at the silver ball in fear, with Aurus voicing out his fear in a serious tone. ¡°Are you seriously going to kill both of us?¡±

    ¡°As I said earlier, why wouldn¡¯t I?¡± Horell evillyughed as the silver ball grewrger. ¡°The two of you are weakened by the [Grand Restriction] spell. By killing off the two of you, this would allow Master to easily kill the other members of the alliance and truly rule the Tempest Cliff.¡±

    Hearing what Horell was saying, Chonk, who was circting the ominous aura that had manifested a while ago around his body, could not help but cackle malevolently as he said, ¡°As expected from my loyal servant!¡±

    He then looked at the two, who he thought was about to die either under his or Horell¡¯s hands, scoffing as he said, ¡°Since the two of you could die from the hands of your former alliance member, with my attack being the final nail on the coffin, how about I enlighten you two on the spell that has led you two to your untimely demises?¡±

    With a haughty grin on his face, he said, ¡°Although I said that it was a 2v2 earlier, in actuality, it¡¯s a 2v3.¡± He then continued, ¡°The [Grand Restriction] spell is being consciously controlled by another member of the army, who is at the Animate existence level.¡±

    ¡°You could go ahead and try dispelling the [Grand Restriction] spell, but you¡¯d surely die under his hands before you can even do so!¡± Chonk added beforeughing once more, thinking that his army had finally won. On the other hand, Herellia, Aurus, and Horell could not help but look at each other with expressions of disbelief.

    <em>¡°Too easy¡­¡±</em> All of them let out a sigh soon after as they muttered at the same time. They could not help but wonder if something was wrong with Chonk¡¯s brain. Nevertheless, the three continued their facade, with Horell shouting, ¡°Prepare to die!¡±

    <strong>¡°[Canus Excidio]!¡±</strong>

    Fwoosh!

    In that instant, the silver ball over Horell¡¯s head had transformed into arge beam, aiming at both Herellia and Aurus. Due to the distance between the three, the bodies of Aurus and Herellia were fully covered by the beam. But against Chonk¡¯s expectations that the two would die, although it seemed that the beam would kill the two, the two had conjured barriers in front of them, giving off an expression that they were still struggling to the bitter end.

    ¡°Grh¡­!¡± Aurus grunted to keep up the facade of them being at a disadvantage before shouting, ¡°We will¡­never surrender!¡±

    ¡°Dream on!¡± Horell replied to Aurus¡¯s words before saying, ¡°You¡¯ll eventually exhaust your energy and die under my beam! Master wouldn¡¯t even need to make a move!¡±

    While Horell was saying this, Aurus sent a message to him through their connection, asking, <em>¡°Could you focus the beam¡¯s strength towards me for a bit? I¡¯ll use the beam¡¯s strength to fly towards the alliance base. Of course, I¡¯m going to make it look like I was defeated by the beam, dispelling my transformation.¡±</em>

    <em>¡°Uh¡­alright.¡±</em> Although Horell did not know the reason why Aurus wanted him to do this, he still did it anyway, shouting words that mostly revolved around the topic of despair and demise as he shifted most of the energy in the beam towards Aurus. While this was happening, Aurus continued to put up a struggle as a facade while sending a message to Herellia through their systems.

    <em>¡°I¡¯m gonna go and dispel that [Grand Restriction] spell,¡±</em> Aurus said to Herellia through a connection.

    <em>¡°Is that the reason why Horell focused the beam towards you?¡±</em> Herellia could not help but ask after Aurus told her what he was going to do.

    <em>¡°Yeah. I¡¯m gonna it look like I¡¯ve exhausted all of my energy, dispelling my transformation as I use my trump card to go and kill that other member in their army.¡±</em> Aurus responded to her question before adding, <em>¡°You¡¯re fine with me doing this, right?¡±</em>

    <em>¡°As long as it allows the fight to be on an even ying field again, I¡¯m fine with it. Then again, Chonk might attack while you¡¯re gone so I¡¯ll alert you when he does,¡±</em> Herellia replied to Aurus¡¯s question. Not long after, she added, <em>¡°Don¡¯t get caught.¡±</em>

    <em>¡°I¡¯ll try not to.¡±</em> After responding to Herellia¡¯s reminder, Aurus reduced the strength of the barrier in front of him as he shouted, ¡°I¡­will¡­never¡­surrender!¡±

    ¡°Just die already!¡± In response to Aurus¡¯s words, Horell focused all of the beam¡¯s strength towards him as Aurus reduced the strength of his barrier to zero, allowing the beam to shatter the barrier as Aurus, who was still an Infernal Spirit, was sent flying tens of meters towards the alliance base.

    ¡°Gah! Noooo!¡± Aurus could not help but shout in agony due to the beam¡¯s strength. Of course, Aurus was just shouting as a facade as he manually dispelled the transformation, sending him, Fenrir, and Charisa flying towards the alliance base with a loud thud.

    Chonk, who looked at this situation from afar, could not help but look at Horell in a new light as he muttered, ¡°He truly is a capable servant.¡±

    ¡­

    Thud. Thud. Thud.

    ¡°Are you two okay?¡± At the instant the three of them hadnded somewhat close to the alliance base, Aurus hastily returned to his normal position, asking both Fenrir and Charisa if they were fine.

    ¡°I¡¯m fine, Master.¡± Fenrir was the first one to respond since hended on his four paws. On the other hand, Charisa took a while to respond as shended in the same position as Aurus, eventually getting up as she said, ¡°I¡¯m kind of dizzy¡­¡±

    Fortunately, it did not take long for Charisa to return to normal, returning to her exuberant self in a matter of seconds. With Charisa finally recovering from the fall, Aurus looked at the two of them and said, ¡°I¡¯ll put you two back into the system once more. Is that alright with you two?¡±

    ¡°You don¡¯t have to ask us this question every time, Master~¡± Charisa responded to Aurus¡¯s question before adding, ¡°We were summoned to protect you. Don¡¯t worry about it~¡±

    ¡°If you say so,¡± Aurus said before letting out a sigh, inwardly feeling bad for what the two had to put up with. He then said, ¡°While the two of you are in the system, please practice the incantation for the forbidden art. I have a nagging feeling inside that this war ising to a close.¡±

    After listening to both of them eding to his request, he thenmanded the system to keep the two inside as Aurus let out a short sigh of relief. He went over the n he had in mind, which he had created after Chonk revealed the information regarding the [Grand Restriction] spell, before radiating an aura of seriousness around him. Soon after, he suppressed this aura to a bare minimum, remembering that he had to keep up an illusion that he had been defeated by Horell.

    Nevertheless, this did not stop him from bing slightly excited inwardly, muttering, ¡°Time to initiate the operation that shall turn the tides to our favor¡­¡±

    ¡°And hopefully, even end the war.¡±

 Chapter 182: Turning the Tides

    Chapter 182: Turning the Tides

    <em><strong>Whoosh!</strong></em>

    Without hesitation, Aurus transferred his control to his clone, who was still hidden between the trees not far away from the entrance of the alliance base. At the very instant the control was transferred to Aurus¡¯s clone, Argentum, he blinked for a few times to get used to the new main perspective he had before standing up to do some light stretching, adapting to the form of his clone¡¯s body.

    ¡°I should seriously evolve my original body to the Animate level as fast as possible,¡± Argentum muttered as he warmed up his body for what he was going to do, thinking about the multiple things he could do with two Animate bodies. ¡°Other than allowing me to easily adapt to the feel of this body, it would also allow me to have multiple identities. Well, thetter part is only helpful if I do something bad. I don¡¯t think I¡¯d do crimes at the Animate level.¡±

    He then took a deep breath before focusing his sense of vision towards the top-down perspective he obtained from the soul balls, remembering the words that Chonk uttered a while ago. He could not help but think that if one of the elements from a while ago werecking in any way, a chance like this would not have popped up, leading the two of them to die under Chonk¡¯s paws and ultimately the alliance after them.

    ¡°If I remember Chonk¡¯s words correctly, the [Grand Restriction] spell is being controlled by another Animate on their side, which could only be Chungus, the being Horell used as a scapegoat for Operation Reversal to seed,¡± Argentum went over Chonk¡¯s words while thinking out loud as he manipted the soul balls to move towards a higher altitude before screening the whole area to find signs of a magic circle.

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    ¡°Chungus is only a Rank 0 Animate, which means I could kill him with the most basic spell I have without a problem,¡± Argentum continued to think out loud as he finished scanning the area near the alliance base with the soul balls. Finding no magic circle, he then moved the soul balls to scan over the area between the alliance base and the territory Chonk¡¯s army resided in before going all in.

    ¡°Then again, I can¡¯t help but be anxious after remembering what Chonk said. Since Chonk said that us at our Pseudo-Animate forms would die under Chungus¡¯s hands, then Chungus might have some life-saving trump cards that would allow him to easily escape my attack.¡± With this in mind, Argentum let out a sigh of despair, thinking about what spells he had at the moment that would allow him to not let Chungus get away from his attack. It was then that a spark of inspiration shed in his mind.

    ¡°Unless¡­I use [Tempest¡¯s Envoy].¡±

    Ding!

    Commanding the system to bring up the skill description of [Tempest¡¯s Envoy] in front of his field of vision, Argentum made sure that the effects of the spell would allow him to easily kill Chungus without a problem.

    <em><strong>________</strong></em>

    <em><strong>[Tempest¡¯s Envoy]</strong></em>

    <em><strong>MP Cost: 5 MP</strong></em>

    <em><strong>A Level 0 Spell inclined towards the Wind element. The more known variant of this spell is [Wind¡¯s Envoy], increasing the speed and damage of a single spell by 50% for a short amount of time. As for this variant, it takes this effect one notch higher, borrowing the power of nature to enhance the speed and damage of any spell cast in a certain span of time by 100 percent, allowing lower-leveled spells to unleash the power of a higher-leveled spell while using less mana in the process.</strong></em>

    <em><strong>________</strong></em>

    Argentum could not help but lightly grin after reading the description of the skill one more time, closing the screen not long after as he moved the soul balls towards the territory Chonk¡¯s army resided in a while ago. While doing so, he muttered, ¡°The Nature¡¯s Wind variant of Level 0 Spells truly is more powerful than any of the Level 0 Spells my Inanimate body has ess to. Then again, the power of a spell is also based on the stats of the user.¡±

    ¡°Ah. Found it.¡± Eventually, Argentum was able to find the magic circle that Chonk spoke of a while ago, situated about tens of meters away from where the army resided. Manipting the soul balls to reduce their altitude so he could get a better view of the surroundings around the magic circle, Argentum then imprinted the view in his mind before tilting it to fit his main perspective. Not long after that, Argentum started to dash towards the area where the magic circle resided at his full speed, making sure to not alert Chonk of his presence.

    ¡°Operation Turning The Tides has officially started!¡±

    ¡°Wait. Shit. I shouldn¡¯t be shouting.¡±

    ¡­

    While Argentum was heading towards the area where the magic circle, as well as Chungus, resided, a mosquito the size of a spider had made its way towards the area where three entities could be seen clearly with his spatial receptors, clearly feeling the aura that came from the three of them.

    ¡°Hm. Quite interesting.¡± Looking at thendscape of front of it, it could not help but focus on two entities who were fighting against each other, both of them radiating auras that fluctuated in intensity. At times, it would feel that the auras radiating from them were as weak as mere insects, while at other times, it would feel that the auras radiating from them were very close to the aura radiated by normal humans.

    ¡°Hmm¡­If I were to gauge their power using the Constitution stat I have, at their weakest, they would be at a 0.01, and at their strongest¡­around 0.6?¡± the mosquito muttered as it watched the two continue shing skills, mesmerized by the aesthetic of their skills. Not long after, it then shifted its focus towards the other entity in the area, who was quite a distance away from the other two.

    ¡°The aura I¡¯m sensing from this one¡­¡± the mosquito could not help but feel a bit anxious while examining this entity. Surprisingly, not long after, the anxiousness the mosquito felt had faded away in an instant as a thought shed across its mind, recing the anxiousness it felt with slight excitement.

    If the strongest auras radiated by the two fighting entities were equivalent to the strength of a kid, then to the mosquito, the remaining entity had the strength of someone who was quite deep in the first realm of cultivation.

    ¡°Hmm¡­using the Constitution stat, this entity would be at around 2 or 3. If I were to estimate the purity of its bloodline though, probably around the same level as mine?¡± the mosquito said as it noticed that the aura emanating from this entity was gradually getting stronger, giving it a few goosebumps.

    Nheless, it felt that the current situation it was looking at was quite boring, making it feel like that the travel it had done was not worth it at all. ¡°At this point, I seriously don¡¯t think this is the inheritance ce of that secluded cultivator. Then again, the intensity of the Wind element here is quite high though.¡±

    <em><strong>Whoosh!</strong></em>

    Just as it was thinking of heading to another portion of Tempest Cliff to stave off its boredom, its senses picked up two auras that were only slightly weaker than the aura radiated by the previous entity, with the two auras gradually getting closer to one another.

    Although most of its mind said that these two auras would also be in a boring situation like the three entities it was currently looking at, there was still a stray thought in its mind that made it feel like it would regret the fact of not checking out the situation of these two auras. Without hesitation, the mosquito decided to follow the stray thought it had, pping its wings at its highest speed to check on the two auras.

    ¡­

    <strong><em>Whoosh! Bang! Boom! Pew!</em></strong>

    At the moment, Horell and Herellia were in a heated fight to the death¡­or at least, that¡¯s what they were trying to make it look like. At times, they would shout at each other with words rted to death, demise, or despair while aiming their skills at one another. Of course, they focused on the shiness of their skills rather than the power behind it, conjuring barriers from time to time to keep up the facade that both of them were struggling.

    ¡°Hoh? To think that you can withstand my attacks for this long!¡± Horell shouted as he sent a ball flying towards Herellia. In response, Herellia scoffed at Horell¡¯s words as she manifested a blood-red tendril on her right arm, manipting it to send the ball Horell sent flying. ¡°You truly underestimate me, Horell.¡±

    While this was happening, the two of them were having a separate discussion through a strand of energy, both of them letting out sighs as they felt that both of them looked like clowns if any other being was looking at what they were doing.

    <em>¡°I wonder if Aurus has already found where the magic circle is at,¡±</em> Herellia could not help but say through the strand of energy. She then added,<em> ¡°It¡¯s kind of embarrassing to keep up this kind of facade, to be honest.¡±</em>

    <em>¡°I want to hide in a hole already, to be honest,¡±</em> Horell replied to her statement, rying that he shared the same opinion. He then pondered for a bit before talking through the strand of energy, <em>¡°Leader, do you have any idea as to what Chonk is currently doing?¡±</em>

    <em>¡°Shouldn¡¯t you be the one who knows more about that? Why ask me?¡±</em> Herellia replied with a tone of slight disbelief, waving a mass of red tendrils towards Horell, to which Horell retaliated with a de of energy.

    <em>¡°Just wondering what you think he¡¯s doing,¡±</em> Horell responded to her question, sending a few energy des towards her, to which she dodged all of them without a problem.

    <em>¡°Hmm¡­¡±</em> Herellia pondered over it and responded, <em>¡°From the ominous aura radiating from his body, it¡¯s quite obvious that he¡¯s preparing a move that would kill me in one hit.¡±</em>

    <em>¡°And that¡¯s what I wanted to hear,¡±</em> Horell lightly chuckled as he uttered his response through the strand of energy, conjuring a barrier as Herellia sent out projectiles made out of blood-red tendrils. After blocking the attacks, he then said,<em> ¡°I have a crazy idea that would make our facade more believable. I wonder if you¡¯re interested in doing it.¡±</em>

    <em>¡°As long as it makes this less monotonous, you have my full support,¡±</em> Herellia let out a short sigh before responding, conjuring a wall of blood-red tendrils as Horell shot a beam of energy at her.

    <em>¡°In short, I make it look like you overpowered me, allowing you to get close to Chonk and attack him. Of course, before you do, I block your attack at thest second as I send you flying to this same location,¡±</em> Horell said to her as he manipted a de of energy to sh at Herellia, which she retaliated with a de made out of blood-red tendrils, shing with one another.

    <em>¡°Hmm¡­¡±</em> Herellia thought about Horell¡¯s idea for a bit, finally understanding what Horell was getting to with this idea. After that moment of realization, Herelliaughed with joy as she responded, <em>¡°Sure, sure! Let¡¯s start right now!¡±</em>

    <strong>¡°[Bloody Thorn]!¡±</strong> Herellia shouted as she conjured a mass of blood-red tendrils that condensed into arge thorn, sending it flying towards Horell. Although Horell blocked the attack with a barrier, the strength behind the thorn was too much, hitting Horell as he was sent flying for a few meters. This shift made Chonk, who had been circting the ominous aura around his body all this time, stop for a bit and wonder what had happened that made Herellia overwhelm Horell, who had been at an advantage all this time.

    ¡°Die, Chonk!¡± Of course, before Chonk could think any further regarding the situation, Herellia dashed towards Chonk at the highest speed possible, sending a blood-red tendril towards him.

    Bang!

    Just as the blood-red tendril was about to hit Chonk, a beam stopped the tendril from getting any closer, deflecting it towards another direction before another beam was shot towards Herellia, sending her flying back multiple meters.

    Thud.

    At the very instant Herellia hadnded back to where she was a while ago, Horell hastily appeared in front of her, madlyughing as he shouted, ¡°You thought you could overpower me, huh? I won¡¯t let you have another chance!¡±

    <em>¡°And that¡¯s basically how it works,¡±</em> Horell hastily established between them with a strand of energy, saying these words. In response, Herellia said in a dejected tone,<em> ¡°You could¡¯ve been more lenient with the beam strength. I could fly, you know.¡±</em>

    But just as Horell was about to apologize for his action, Herellia followed her words with a light chuckle before saying,<em> ¡°Other than that, this is far better than before! Look at Chonk¡¯s face, he¡¯s proud of you! Let¡¯s keep it up!¡±</em>

    And with that, the two continued with this new pattern, surprising Chonk every once in a while.

    ¡­

    A few minutes had passed since Argentum started running towards the magic circle that restricted their strength. At this moment, he had finally arrived near the perimeter of the magic circle, hiding behind a tree as he looked at the rabbit that was infusing energy in the magic circle.

    ¡°Now that I think about it, why did I ept that wolf¡¯s offer in the first ce?¡± the rabbit started toin as it continued to infuse energy in the magic circle. This rabbit was none other than Chungus, thinking that he was alone,ining without a care for the world.

    ¡°He¡¯s only a newly advanced Rank 1 Animate, he¡¯s not muchpared to the previous customers I had,¡± Chungus continued toin before adding, ¡°Did I have a few screws loose while I epted his request or something?¡±

    After saying that, he went silent for a bit, pondering over something. Not long after, he then let out a sigh as he muttered, ¡°If I think about it, I could just go ahead and stop powering this magic circle at any time. The rewards given by the stronger Animates are still multiple levels better than what he was offering anyway.¡±

    Hearing this from behind the tree, Argentum decided to scrap his previous n of using [Tempest¡¯s Envoy] to kill Chungus in one hit. After hearing that Chungus did not even have any good rtions with Chonk, he thought that he could just talk it out with the rabbit, and perhaps, possibly redirect the power of the spell towards Chonk instead of them.

    Mustering his courage, Argentum solidified his ns of talking with Chungus instead of fighting it out, creating a few rustling sounds as he walked past a few shrubs.

    ¡°Huh? Who goes there?¡± Picking up these sounds, Chungus could not help but look at the direction of the sound¡¯s origin, slightly surprised that a human with leaves covering its private parts had appeared before him. He was left at a loss for words for a bit, instantly bing vignt as he snapped back to reality, saying, ¡°Are you here to kill me for my meat? If so, I won¡¯t let you have my meat without expending a lot of energy.¡±

    ¡°No, not at all. I don¡¯t even need to eat to survive.¡± Surprisingly, rather than go at him like any normal human, this human replied in a calm andposed manner as it sat down outside the perimeters of the magic circle. Of course, Chungus could not help but still be a bit vignt towards the human¡­until it heard what the human said afterward.

    ¡°You were hired by Chonk to seal the strength of the alliance he¡¯s fighting against, right?¡± the human asked Chungus, not waiting for Chungus to answer as it continued, ¡°Well, I¡¯m the ally of the alliance he¡¯s fighting against, and I think it¡¯s quite stupid for Chonk to use such a skill to fight against Inanimates. Don¡¯t you think he has more than enough power on his own to fight against the alliance?¡±

    ¡°I can¡¯t say you¡¯re wrong¡­since it¡¯s true,¡± Chungus thought about what he was going to say, voicing out his agreement with the human¡¯s words. He then continued, ¡°It¡¯s quite cowardly for a Rank 1 Animate to use these types of skills to kill Inanimates.¡±

    ¡°Indeed,¡± the human said before adding, ¡°And with that in mind, I am here to propose something that would benefit the both of us. Change the target of the magic circle to Chonk and I¡¯ll give you information regarding the multiple Ascension paths from Rank 1 to Rank 9 Animate. I can even tell you the requirements needed to achieve them.¡±

    Hearing that this human in front of him would give him information regarding something that was kept a secret by many, Chungus could not help but think that it was too good to be true. But then, the human gestured him toe closer, whispering something in his ears which made him widen his eyes in an instant.

    At the instant the human was finished whispering, Chungus said without hesitation, ¡°Alright, I ept¡ª¡±

    <strong><em>Slurp.</em></strong>

    Just as Chungus was about to ede to the human¡¯s request, it seemed that an external force acted upon his body, sucking out all of the liquid inside his body, only leaving the dried corpse of a rabbit on the magic circle.

    The human was visibly shaken as it saw this happen in front of it, looking around with intense vignce, its eyes widening once he saw arge mosquito not far away from where it was, radiating an aura that did not lose out in intensity whenpared to itself.

    ¡°Hello there.¡±

    ¡°Care to have some fun?¡±

 Chapter 183: Dual Cortex Mage

    Chapter 183: Dual Cortex Mage

    XXXX Continent, Seraph Kingdom, Arcana Tower.

    A few hours have passed since Erea borrowed the scripture {Beryl¡¯s Aqua Spells} from her teacher Dane. Ever since she received the scripture, she had been reading and digesting the information contained in the scripture while cross-referencing what she already knew from the previous scripture she read, as well as fused some theories regarding the two scriptures in her mind.

    ¡°To think that the two are actually connected¡­¡± Erea could not help but mutter as she closed the two scriptures on the floor, letting out a sigh of contentment before looking at the covers of the two scriptures. ¡°{Beryl¡¯s Aqua Spells} actually expounds on the intricacies of the [Aqua Sphere] spell, which means that it¡¯s a scripture focused on the basics of the [Aqua Sphere] spell. As for the scripture Teacher wanted me to buy, it did not ur to me that it was an extension of the theories of the [Aqua Sphere] spell in {Beryl¡¯s Aqua Spells}.¡±

    Glossing over what she understood and concluded from the two scriptures as she closed her eyes for a while, she then stood up as she grabbed the two scriptures, cing both on the nted table before heading back to the center of the room she was in.

    ¡°Huu¡­haa¡­¡± Erea took in a deep breath as she extended her left arm outward, summoning all of the Water energy particles that were inside the room she was in. Not long after, a faint blue haze covered her body, to which she manipted towards the extended arm as she started muttering the incantations for the [Aqua Sphere] spell.

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    Starting from her feet, the faint blue haze made its way towards her extended arm like a slithering snake, transforming into a lump of blue energy at the instant it had arrived on her left palm. It did not take long for all of the blue haze to make its way towards her left palm, with the lump of blue energy hovering over her left palm undergoing a qualitative change as it turned into a solid ball of water.

    Glurg. Glurg.

    ¡°[Aqua Sphere]!¡± Erea shouted as she focused all of her willpower towards the water ball hovering over her palm, remembering the new theories and ideas she had obtained from the scripture she had borrowed, as well as the old theories and ideas she had obtained from the scripture she had bought,bining them as one while the water ball mimicked the natural movement of water.

    At the moment the water ball had maintained its form for over 12 seconds, Erea¡¯s concentration had intensified by a few notches, trying her best to make sure that the water ball continued to maintain its natural flowing form. What she did not know was that she was applying too much stress on herself, with cold drops of sweat flowing down her forehead as she hoped that the water ball would maintain its form for at least 30 seconds.

    Ssh!

    Eventually, Erea¡¯s concentration had been broken, with the water ball starting to move erratically as a result of this loss in focus. But although that was the case, a weird expression was stered on Erea¡¯s face as she looked at the water ball that was currently rotating clockwise in front of her.

    It was an expression of happiness.

    ¡°I did it¡­¡± Erea muttered in slight disbelief, wondering if what she had done was just a dream. Fortunately for her, she could feel the reaction of her body, the state of her mind, as well as the breeze that blew inside the room she was in, letting her know that she had truly seeded this time. ¡°A time of 34 seconds¡­¡±

    ¡°I did it!¡± As she screamed in joy, she subconsciously squeezed the water ball tightly, only realizing what she had done at the exact moment the water ball had burst under the pressure of her hand. Nheless, this did not stop her from being ted with what she had done, hastily conjuring a fireball before manipting it to sweep around her body, drying off the robe she was wearing.

    Rather than go ahead and tell others about this achievement, she went ahead and sat down on the chair in front of the nted table, closing her eyes as she pondered on what she could improve upon, realizing that she was utilizing a lot of mana for a spell that did not cost that much mana in the first ce.

    With this in mind, she muttered, ¡°If I were to try and cast [Fireball] and [Aqua Sphere] at the same time, with my current mana capacity, I could do that but I could only do it once or twice before being my mana runs out. I should reduce the amount of mana I use for the [Aqua Sphere] spell while making sure to achieve the same level of effect. After that, I¡¯ll do the same for [Fireball].¡±

    Soon after, she stood up and started optimizing the mana usage of the two Level 1 Spells she owned, taking over a half a day to reduce the mana consumption of both spells to a level where she was satisfied. Nheless, the number of times she had conjured and dispelled these two spells in that half-day could not help but make her gasp for air heavily as she lied t on the ground. Then again, while she lied t on the ground, a smile was still stered on her face, letting anyone that saw this face know very well that she incredibly enjoyed what she was doing.

    Surprisingly, as she continued to lie down on the ground, her eyes started to droop as she yawned. It did not take long for her eyes topletely close as her breathing slowed down soon after. In other words, she was now sleeping. To be honest, it was quite understandable for her to sleep after what she had been doing for the past few days, assiduously reading, expounding, and fusing theories and ideas from the two scriptures so she could fluidly control the [Aqua Sphere] spell.

    And with that, many hours had passed by as the sun rose from the east, illuminating the room where Erea resided with its rays.

    ¡°Mngh¡­¡± Erea could not help but mumble as a few of the rays hit her face, making her frown as she gradually opened her eyes. At the very instant she did, she hastily squinted as the sunlight directly hit her eyes, slowly standing up in the process as she started to do some light stretching.

    ¡°Haaa¡­Did I fall asleep on the floor?¡± Erea muttered in slight wonder, the frown on her face intensifying as her back ached while she stretched. Feeling this, she let out a sigh before saying, ¡°Yep¡­I fell asleep on the floor.¡±

    She then went outside the room she was in, heading towards the lower floors of the Arcana Tower to freshen herself and eat some breakfast. After around twenty minutes or so, she then went back to her training room, heading one of the windows near her room to take a look at what time it was.

    ¡°Past noon already¡­¡± Erea muttered as she looked at the sun that had already passed the peak. After doing so, she went to the center of the room, closing her eyes as she tried to remember what she had done before she slept. The sensation of letting [Aqua Sphere] move like water for over 30 seconds, the reduction of mana usage for the [Aqua Sphere] and [Fireball] spell, she recalled all of these before opening her eyes once more.

    ¡°I hope it works out this time.¡± She then took in a breath as she attuned her body to the Fire energy particles within the room, using her mana to call these particles and congregate on her body. It did not take long for a faint red haze to appear all over her body as she extended her right arm while muttering the incantations for the [Fireball] spell.

    At the instant she was finished chanting, all of the red haze on her body made its way towards her right palm, hastily transforming into a ball of fire that radiated a lot of heat and light.

    ¡°[Fireball],¡± she muttered as she attuned herself to the sensation of having such a spell continuously consume her mana, as well as her mental power in order for the spell to be stable. She then let out a long sigh as she extended her left arm this time, softly saying, ¡°And now, the second spell.¡±

    Sucking in a cold breath of air, she then attuned her body to the Water energy particles in her room, making sure that a part of her body was still attuned to the Fire energy particles. After that, she used her mana to call these Water energy particles to coalesce around her body. At this point, she felt a strain on her mind, thinking that it was very hard for someone at her level to make sure that a spell did not go berserk while casting another spell at the same time.

    ¡°But that¡¯s what would allow me to achieve greater power at the same ss!¡±

    Enduring the strain she felt on her mind, she muttered the incantation for the [Aqua Sphere] spell, with the blue haze all over her body gradually making its way towards her left palm, turning into a lump of blue energy before undergoing a qualitative change to a ball of water.

    Swish! Swish! Fwoosh! Fwoosh!

    Seeing that the [Aqua Sphere] was hovering over her left palm, Erea did not dare to let her emotions get to her as a holographic screen appeared on her face at the very instant she was able to hold both spells at the same time.

    Ding!

    ¡®Please make sure to hold both spells for at least 30 seconds. If this condition has been achieved, a new skill hidden within the user¡¯s potential shall be unlocked.¡¯

    Seeing this notification appear on her screen, shemanded the system to close the screen in her mind as she took in a deep breath, making sure to utilize both halves of her brain to the fullest as she made sure that the two spells on her palms did not go berserk.

    Although there were times where one or both spells she had on her palms were about to go berserk, she was able to deescte their vtility, eventually allowing her to hold both spells for over 30 seconds.

    Ding!

    Hearing a notification sound resound throughout her mind one more time, Erea let out a sigh as she dispelled both spells at the same time before massaging both of her arms from the strain of having them stay at the position she had them for too long. Nevertheless, this did not stop her from bing excited inwardly as she hastilymanded the system to show thetest notification she had received.

    Whoosh!

    ¡®Congrattions to the user for holding both spells for at least 30 seconds. A skill hidden within the user¡¯s potential has been unlocked.¡¯

    ¡®The passive skill [Dualcasting] has been unlocked.¡¯

    At the instant she read the name of the skill she had obtained, Erea¡¯s eyes could not help but widen as she looked at her teacher from a new perspective. ¡°Although I had the feeling that the reason why Teacher wanted me to do that was because of this skill, I didn¡¯t expect that I¡¯d actually have it in me.¡±

    Not long after, a grin spread across her face, unable to hide the excitement she was feeling. She then went ahead and raised both of her arms once more, opening both palms as she muttered the incantations for [Aqua Sphere] and [Fireball] consecutively.

    Swish! Fwoosh!

    And just like that, a ball of fire and a ball of water had appeared on her left and right palms respectively, leaving Erea in awe as to how the passive skill she had obtained made the process multiple times easier than before. She then dispelled both spells before pondering over something. After doing a bit of pondering, she then muttered with a slightly excited tone, ¡°If my predictions are correct, with this passive skill, a ss that has set off waves even in ISE in the early days would now be my own ss.¡±

    Ding!

    ¡®Would you like to transition to a higher-ranked ss?¡¯

    ¡°It seems the system thinks the same. I¡¯ve reached the limit of what my Rank 2 ss can do.¡± Erea grinned at the small holographic screen that appeared in front of her field of vision. Not long after, she responded to the system¡¯s question, saying only one word.

    ¡°Yes.¡±

    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!

    Not long after her confirmation, the holographic screen in front of her field of vision disappeared as the aura emanating from her body had intensified by a few notches, enveloping the room she was in with an aura that she could control anything in this room with a single thought.

    But it did not stop there.

    A few secondster, her aura expanded far beyond her room, enveloping the whole floor her room was in with her aura, making all of the mages, that were on the same floor as her, look at the room she was in with curiosity and awe. Nheless, they all had the same idea in their minds.

    A supreme mage was about to be born.

    While the aura was still enveloping them, the mages in the same floor as her started contacting their mentors, telling them of this phenomenon, which surprisingly aroused the interest of their mentors very much.

    As for what was happening inside Erea¡¯s room, at this moment, she was already floating a meter or so off the ground, sensing that her body was undergoing a great change as every part of her body was nurtured by the mana she had trained. Thest part that was nurtured was her brain, undergoing a great change as she could sense everything that was happening outside and inside her body with a single thought after her mana nurtured her brain.

    Whoosh!

    Eventually, the aura that had expanded to cover the whole floor her room was in hastily shrunk back, condensing into her body as she gradually floated back to the floor on her two legs. After all of that, she could not help but clench her fists, feeling immense power flowing throughout her body, all of it stemming from the mana she had, as well as her brain.

    Ding!

    Not long after, a notification screen appeared in front of her field of vision, detailing the changes that had happened to her body. At the very instant she finished reading it, a smile was stered on her face as she muttered, ¡°I was indeed right. That legendary ss has now be my ss.¡±

    ¡°I wonder how far I can go.¡±

    Whoosh!

    ¡®The user has ascended to a higher ss.¡¯

    ¡®The user¡¯s ss has been changed from Rank 2 Mage to Rank 3 Dual Cortex Mage.¡¯

    ¡®The user has gained ess to Level 0 Spells of the Fusion variant.¡¯

    ¡®The user has obtained [Fusion Affinity] and [Spell Fusion].¡¯

    ¡®The user¡¯s stats have been greatly increased.¡¯

    ¡®A god seems to be greatly interested in your abilities.¡¯

 Chapter 184: The True Climax

    Chapter 184: The True Climax

    Tempest Cliff, within an area near the territory where Chonk¡¯s army resided quite some time ago.

    Just as Argentum thought that he was about to strike a deal with Chungus, who seemed to be greatly interested with the rewards he would obtain in exchange, an external element he did not even expect hade into the scene, hastily sucking all of the fluids in Chungus¡¯s body, leaving a dried husk of a rabbit on top of the magic circle it previously controlled.

    Since he saw it happen in front of them, Argentum could not help but be visibly shaken by the fact that something that he could not even see had sucked the vitality of that Rank 0 Animate just like that. Although most of his mind wanted his body to go ahead and run back to where his original body was, there was a stray thought that wondered if running away would make him a target of that external element as well.

    Eventually, that stray thought won over the majority of his mind, prompting him to stand up and let out a deep breath even though he was still extremely afraid of what could happen inwardly. He then went ahead and scanned his current surroundings, wondering if the external element was aiming for the magic circle the rabbit had created on the ground.

    Not long after, an aura that surpassed his started to emanate from a location near him, forcing him to muster up his courage as he looked at the origin of that aura. It did not take long for him to find out what kind of being emanated that tyrannical aura, the sight of a mosquito the size of arge spider flying a couple of meters away from him.

    <em>¡®That big mosquito¡­killed Chungus? How did it do it?¡¯</em> This was the thought that was going through his mind, understanding the fact that a mosquito from this world could possibly have its bloodsucking abilities exaggerated to a great degree, but he could not fathom the fact that it did not even have to touch the rabbit¡¯s body to suck its blood.

    Nevertheless, ignoring the fear Argentum held towards it, the mosquito started to talk with him.

    ¡°Hello there,¡± it said. Not long after, it added in a slightly cold yet malicious tone, ¡°Care to have some fun?¡±

    Hearing the question asked by the mosquito, Argentum could not help but hastily conclude that the word ¡®fun¡¯ the mosquito said was pertaining to the fact that it was going to suck his blood. With that in mind, he hastily raised his arm as he chanted the incantation of a certain spell, increasing the density of the Wind energy particles in the area he was at.

    <strong>¡°[Tempest¡¯s Envoy]!¡±</strong>

    <em><strong>Whoosh! Whoosh!</strong></em>

    At the instant he was finished casting the spell, he then went on and chanted another incantation, chanting the most basic attack spell he had in his arsenal, [Nature¡¯s Wind Bolt]. As for the mosquito, who noticed the instant increase in the density of the Wind element, it could not help but look at what the human in front of it was doing, noticing that the faint glow emanating from the human¡¯s raised hand had the intent of destruction.

    It was then that the mosquito knew¡­that the human was going to kill it.

    ¡°Am I really that bad at introducing myself?¡± the mosquito could not help but ask itself before letting out a sigh, mustering all of its strength to hastily fly towards the human¡¯s body, poking its proboscis on the human¡¯s back not long after.

    <strong>¡°[Selective Stun Imbuement].¡±</strong>

    <strong>¡°Mouth.¡±</strong>

    <em><strong>Fwoosh!</strong></em>

    Just as the human was about to finish casting its spell, its eyes grew wide as it noticed that the mosquito had easily made its way towards its back. Unfortunately for the human, even though the spell on its hand was almost finished, a foreign fluid coursed throughout its body, stopping its mouth from moving any further.

    <em><strong>Pssshhh¡­</strong></em>

    Due to the incantation not being finished, the spell was unfortunately dispelled, increasing the human¡¯s fear towards the mosquito that was on its back.

    ¡­

    <em><strong>Buzz¡­</strong></em>

    <em>¡®How the¡­am I seriously going to die?¡¯</em> Since his mouth was sealed from moving thanks to the fluid that was injected on his body by the mosquito, Argentum could not help but close his eyes, deciding that it was better for him to not see what killed him before he truly died.

    But then, what he heard next made him confused.

    ¡°To be honest, I didn¡¯t really want to do this. You were aiming to kill me. I was just acting in self-defense,¡± the mosquito said after retracting its proboscis from his body, heading towards his field of vision. Not long after, it added, ¡°Anyways, the situation you¡¯re in is quite interesting. After that magic circle stopped getting any power, it actually increased the intensity of the aura of one of the entities from that other ce.¡±

    In response to this, Argentum tilted his head to the side as his eyes widened. Noticing this, the mosquito let out augh before saying, ¡°It seems I¡¯ve gotten your attention. I¡¯ll unseal your mouth as long as you don¡¯t kill me. Do we have a deal?¡±

    Argentum pondered over the mosquito¡¯s statement for a bit before deciding that it would bring him more good than harm if he agreed to the mosquito¡¯s conditions. He soon nodded his head, with the mosquito muttering a few words in response not long after.

    <em><strong>Psshhh¡­</strong></em>

    In an instant, Argentum felt that the muscles that moved his mouth were loose again, taking in a deep breath of air before letting it out soon after. He then lightly stretched his body as he looked at the mosquito and asked, ¡°Why did you kill that rabbit? We would have turned the tides if it wasn¡¯t for your meddling.¡±

    ¡°Well¡­¡± The mosquito pondered over its answer for a bit before replying, ¡°Why not?¡±

    ¡°The magic circle that rabbit was controlling significantly decreases thebat power of a being. If you didn¡¯t kill him in the middle of our conversation, then we could¡¯ve killed Chonk already,¡± Argentum said in response, letting out a sigh not long after.

    ¡°Chonk¡­is that the name of that entity with the incredibly strong aura?¡± the mosquito could not help but ask Argentum, to which it added not long after, ¡°If it is, then I could kill that being without even getting close to it.¡±

    ¡°¡­¡± In response to the mosquito¡¯s words, Argentum stayed silent because he knew that it was true. The aura that the mosquito radiated a while ago had surpassed the intensity of his aura, and when hepared it to Chonk¡¯s aura, he found out that even with his coat of armor, the mosquito¡¯s aura was still slightly stronger than Chonk¡¯s.

    Argentum pondered over what he could do next for a while, scratching his head furiously with his head down before letting out a sigh. The mosquito looked at what Argentum was doing, slightly confused. Not long after, it picked up a few wordsing out of Argentum¡¯s mouth.

    ¡°It seems I have no choice now, huh.¡±

    ¡°Hey, mosquito. What¡¯s your name?¡± Argentum raised his head to look at the hovering mosquito, with the mosquito radiating an aura of annoyance as it replied in a slightly haughty tone, ¡°I don¡¯t like the way you talk, human.¡±

    ¡°Well, you killed the variable that could have allowed us to win the war,¡± Argentum said in a slightly haughty tone in response before adding, ¡°Do you really expect me to be polite to you after what you¡¯ve done? Although I know you have more power than me, I still have some tricks up my sleeve.¡±

    The mosquito soon heard Argentum¡¯s words, letting out a soft sigh as it realized that it indeed had no reason to be overbearing in the first ce. With that in mind, it changed its tone quite a bit as it said, ¡°Alright, I apologize for what I¡¯ve done. Anyways, my name is Bell. You?¡±

    ¡°Argentum,¡± Argentum replied to the mosquito¡¯s question before asking him, ¡°What are you doing here?¡±

    ¡°To be honest, I don¡¯t know either.¡± Bell let out a sigh before replying to his question. He soon added, ¡°I entered this ce through a rift. I just thought that what was happening in this area was quite interesting.¡±

    ¡°Wait¡­rift?¡± Argentum could not help but ask. But just as Bell was about to expound on it, Argentum interrupted him, saying, ¡°Not now. Let¡¯s save the banter forter. For now, help me out in killing Chonk.¡±

    ¡°Well¡­before you even requested that, I was nning to suck that being dry anyway,¡± Bell soon responded to Argentum¡¯s words. Not long after, he asked, ¡°Do you want me to kill that being right now?¡±

    ¡°Nah. Not right now,¡± Argentum replied as the aura radiating from him gradually took on a hint of malevolence. He soon added, ¡°I must make him feel what the other two alliances in Tempest Cliff had gone through thanks to what he has done.¡±

    Listening to his words, Bell could not help but interpret in any other way, letting out a malevolentugh as he asked Argentum, ¡°So¡­are you nning to torture the being before you kill it? If so, I have my ways to make the experience better.¡±

    Just as Argentum was about to ask Bell as to how he had gotten to that conclusion, Bell hastily went up to his ears and whispered what he had in mind, making Argentum¡¯s eyes widen as a cruel grin gradually crept up his face.

    ¡­

    Tempest Cliff, between the alliance base of the Tempest Branch Alliance and the territory where Chonk¡¯s army resided quite some time ago.

    <em><strong>Whoosh!</strong></em>

    At this moment, Herellia had broken away from Horell¡¯s clutches once more, radiating an aura of killing intent as she hastily made her way towards Chonk, manifesting a blood-red tendril that would sh at his body, only for her attack to end up futile as a beam struck the tendril, deflecting it.

    ¡°Horell, when will you stop hindering me from killing Chonk?!¡± Herellia could not help but shout as a beam was shot towards her body, sending her flying a few meters back from where Chonk was. Not long after, a being appeared in front of where shended, letting out sounds of exhaustion as it replied, ¡°As long as I still have an ounce of energy within me, I shall never let you get close to Master!¡±

    On the other hand, Chonk, who was watching this unfold a certain distance away from him, could not help but praise his servant inwardly for protecting him every time Herellia was about to attack him, thinking to himself,<em> ¡®Once I unleash this ultimate move to kill Herellia and the alliance, I¡¯ll definitely let Horell be my right-hand man.¡¯</em>

    Of course, Horell and Herellia, who were still fooling Chonk up till now, conversed through a strand of energy, with Herellia asking Horell, <em>¡°Quite some time has passed since Aurus has been flung away by your beam. Do you think he dispelled the magic circle already?¡±</em>

    <em>¡°Highly unlikely,¡±</em> Horell replied to her words before adding,<em> ¡°He¡¯s up against an Animate. Even though it¡¯s Rank 0, the gap in strength between an Animate and an Inanimate is just insurmountabl¡ª¡±</em>

    <em><strong>Whoosh!</strong></em>

    Just as Horell was about to finish what he was about to say through the strand of energy, the aura radiated from Herellia had intensified multiple times, reverting back to the intensity that it was previously at before she and Aurus were debilitated by the spell. Of course, being the recipient of such an increase in the aura¡¯s intensity, Herellia was left speechless for quite a bit, taking some time to snap back to reality beforeughing out loud in pure surprise.

    Not long after, she sent a message to Horell through the strand of energy that connected them, saying, <em>¡°So? What were you saying?¡±</em>

    In response to Herellia¡¯s words, Horell let out an awkward chuckle through the strand before saying, <em>¡°I take my words back. Aurus just seems to be making miracles every time, even when we think that it¡¯s impossible.¡±</em>

    Just as the two were about to continue chatting with each other, a familiar voice resounded in their minds at the same time, prompting them to look at Chonk, who had an expression of shock written on his face.

    The voice said, <em>¡°I¡¯ve dispelled the effects of the magic circle. Horell, it¡¯s time to sever your ties. Herellia, it¡¯s time to retaliate at full power.¡±</em>

    <em>¡°As for me¡­I¡¯lle there as soon as possible.¡±</em>

    ¡­

    <em><strong>Whoosh!</strong></em>

    ¡°Hm?¡± Hearing the breeze flowing through the area they were in, Chonk could not help but be a bit curious as to where it came from. But just as he was about to continue wondering as to where the breeze came from, something else took up his attention, prompting him to look at the two Pseudo-Animates a decent distance away from him, especially the Pseudo-Animate that he had debilitated a while ago.

    ¡°That can¡¯t be¡­¡± Chonk muttered in disbelief as he could sense the aura radiating from that Pseudo-Animate quite well. Sensing this aura, he knew very well that the effects of the magic circle had been disabled, thinking about the possible reasons as to why it had been disabled.

    <em>¡®Did Chungus die?¡¯</em> This was the first thought that came to his mind, hastily concluding that it was impossible as the Tempest Cliff was a ce where Animates were rarely seen. Moving that thought aside, he then wondered,<em> ¡®If he didn¡¯t die, then¡­did the alliance persuade him to disable the spell?¡¯</em>

    ¡°If that¡¯s the case, then who¡ª¡± Just as this thought came to his mind, he remembered a certain being of the alliance he was fighting against being flung far away from where he was. At that moment, he realized¡­

    That he was being fooled all along.

    ¡°HORELL!¡± Chonk shouted with intense rage, radiating an intense aura iparable to the aura he was radiating a while ago. Without hesitation, he dashed towards where Horell and Herellia were, condensing all of the ominous aura circling his body towards one of his front paws.

    While dashing towards where they were, he continued to shout.

    ¡°I TRUSTED YOU!!! I THOUGHT YOU WERE ON MY SIDE ALL THIS TIME!!! AND THIS IS HOW YOU PAY ME AFTER WHAT I¡¯VE DONE TO YOU?! I SAVED YOUR LIFE!!!¡±

    In response to Chonk¡¯s shouting, Horell let out a sigh as he responded, ¡°I am indeed thankful to you for saving my life, but you didn¡¯t have to make me your ve, no? Think of this as atonement for what you¡¯ve done to everyone in your army.¡±

    Just as Horell was about to retaliate against Chonk¡¯s imminent attack, Herellia hastily moved in front of Horell, sending a message through a strand of energy.

    <em>¡°Enhance my abilities as much as possible, Horell. You don¡¯t have enough strength to defend against his attack.¡±</em>

    Not long after, Herellia¡¯s voice could be heard, saying, ¡°I¡¯ll make sure he feels regret for what he has done.¡±

    Horell pondered over Herellia¡¯s words for a split-second before muttering, ¡°Alright. Punch her for me.¡±

    ¡°Alliance Leader.¡±

    <strong>¡°[Imbuement Mode: Mana Ascension].¡±</strong>

    <strong>¡°[Imbuement Mode: One with Mana].¡±</strong>

    <strong>¡°[Mana Power Transfer].¡±</strong>

    <em><strong>Whoosh!</strong></em>

    In an instant, the aura radiating from Herellia had intensified yet again by multiple notches, making Chonk feel slight intimidation. Nheless, due to the rage that was overflowing throughout his body, he continued with his advance, raising the front paw which he imbued all of the ominous auras around him before swiping down with his full strength.

    Looking at this attack, Herellia could not help but feel that time has slowed down for her. Not long after, she let out a sigh, muttering, ¡°I wish Aurus was here to see this. I¡¯m sure he¡¯ll be shocked to see that that wasn¡¯t my full power.¡±

    <strong>¡°[Forbidden Sanguine Arts: Crimson Spirit Zero].¡±</strong>

    <em><strong>Whoosh!</strong></em>

    ¡­

    ¡­

    <strong>¡°[Reverberation].¡±</strong>

    ¡­

    ¡­

    <em><strong>Bang!</strong></em>

 Chapter 185: Revival of the Nut Shot

    Chapter 185: Revival of the Nut Shot

    <strong>¡°[Forbidden Sanguine Arts: Crimson Spirit Zero].¡±</strong>

    <em><strong>Whoosh!</strong></em>

    In less than an instant, all of the aura radiating out of Herellia, who was currently a Crimson Spirit, hastily made its way towards the Crimson Spirit¡¯s right fist, making it seem that the fist was covered in colorless yet tangible energy. At the moment this happened, Chonk¡¯s right paw, which was the paw where he imbued all of the ominous auras toward, was only half a meter or so away from colliding with Herellia¡¯s body.

    Noticing this, Herellia hastily moved her right fist to collide with Chonk¡¯s paw, a strong explosion sound resonating from the collision of their limbs soon after. There was an abrupt lull from their collision, with Chonk looking at Herellia with eyes filled with rage, saying, ¡°Move out of the way.¡±

    In response to this, Herellia lightly chuckled before replying, ¡°How about you move out of the way instead?¡±

    <strong>¡°[Reverberation].¡±</strong>

    <em><strong>Boom!</strong></em>

    At the instant she muttered that word, an explosion came from the area where their limbs were touching, pushing Chonk a few steps back. Chonk was at a slight loss for words as to what had happened, but he was still greatly infuriated, scoffing at the power of the attack as he said, ¡°Is that all?¡±

    Just then¡­

    <em><strong>Bang! Bang! Bang! Bang!</strong></em>

    One after the other, sessive explosion manifested around Chonk¡¯s right paw, with each consecutive explosion having more energy than the previous. Thanks to this, even before Chonk couldnd on the ground from the previous explosion, another explosion would have happened, sending him flying back even further.

    <em><strong>Thud!</strong></em>

    It was about 30 seconds or so after Herellia made her move did Chonk finallynd on the ground with a hard thud. Chonk hastily stood up in anger, deciding in his mind that he was going to have to kill Herellia first if he wanted to kill Horell, the servant that had betrayed him.

    On the other hand, Herellia noticed the aura that was radiating from Chonk, prompting her to look at Horell behind her and say, ¡°Horell, I¡¯d suggest you fly or something if you don¡¯t want to get caught up in the force of our attacks. If it¡¯s possible, suppress his powers as well.¡±

    While Herellia was talking, Horell was in awe at the power Herellia showed to him. He never expected that an Inanimate could amass enough power that could fight against an Animate, a Rank 1 Animate at that. Of course, there was a thought in the back of his mind that Herellia must have sacrificed something to attain that level of power. Nevertheless, he processed what she said, hastily flying a few meters up in the air before replying, ¡°Alright. I¡¯ll act as your support, just like the old times.¡±

    Herellia let out a light chuckle before saying, ¡°Just like the old times, indeed.¡±

    <strong>¡°[Crimson Rejuvenation].¡±</strong>

    <em><strong>Whoosh!</strong></em>

    As a red wave of energy covered her body, Herellia could not help but let out a sigh of relief as she inwardly thought,<em> ¡®This is why I don¡¯t want to use the final stage of the Forbidden Sanguine Arts. It consumes almost all of my HP.¡¯</em>

    While thinking about this, Chonk was dashing towards her with the left paw being imbued with ominous aura this time. Without waiting for hermand, Horell used all of the spells he knew to reduce thebat power of Chonk. Unfortunately, only a small part of hisbat power was reduced, radiating an aura of disappointment towards Herellia.

    In response to this, Herellia radiated an aura that said<em> ¡®At least you did your best¡¯.</em> She then ced both of the hands of the Crimson Spirit to the ground before channeling all of the energy in her body towards the ground. Soon after, a wall of earth that was covered in red energy appeared in front of Herellia at the very instant Chonk was only a few decimeters away from her.

    ¡°Then again,¡± Herellia muttered before continuing as she radiated an aura of tion, ¡°The power it gives me is always exhrating!¡±

    <strong>¡°[Resonance]!¡±</strong>

    <em><strong>Bang!</strong></em>

    Swiping his left paw at the wall of earth in front of him, Chonk had the idea that with the power behind the paw, he would easily be able to break through, allowing him to attack Herellia just as she was caught off guard. Unfortunately for him, fate didn¡¯t seem to go his way as all of the energy behind his attack was absorb by the wall of earth, sending it back to him at twice the strength.

    Whoosh!

    And so, Chonk was sent flying one more time, but this time, he was akin to a broken kite,nding on the ground head first as a great amount of dust was scattered in the air. Seeing this, Herellia hastily dispelled the wall of earth before healing herself back to full health. She then hastily dashed towards Chonk while he was still down, clenching both of her fists as she redirected all of her aura towards both fists.

    At the moment she arrived near Chonk, she sent both fists towards Chonk, starting a barrage of punches on Chonk¡¯s body as each consecutive punch thatnded on his body gradually intensified in power.

    <strong>¡°[Undying]!¡±</strong>

    <em><strong>Boom! Boom! Boom!</strong></em>

    After some time, the level of power behind each punch had reached a level wherein Chonk was making a crater on the ground, with every consecutive punch deepening said crater. Since Herellia was hitting Chonk by the abdomen, Chonk could not retaliate against the attacks with his paws. Nevertheless, this did not stop him from working his brain at full speeds, biding his time on making a counterattack against her.

    On the other hand, while Herellia was continuing with her barrage, she could not help but wonder to herself,<em> ¡®I wonder what¡¯s taking Aurus so long.¡¯</em>

    ¡­

    Tempest Cliff, an area where a magic circle could be seen.

    Quite some time has passed since Bell whispered a few things in Argentum¡¯s ear. After doing such a thing, the two of them conversed with malicious intent emanating from the two of them. A wide malevolent grin could be seen on Argentum¡¯s face while an aura of malice was radiating from Bell, eager to do what they had talked about.

    ¡°Let¡¯s go with that n, okay?¡± Argentum said to Bell, making sure that they were on the same page. In response, Bell replied, ¡°Yeah, I got it.¡±

    Not long after, Argentum closed his eyes as he focused on the perspective from the soul balls, manipting one of the soul balls to split into two, with one of the two halves going down to where Bell was before making a connection with Bell¡¯s mind.

    After seeing that the connection was sessful, Argentum sent a message through the connection, saying,<em> ¡°Can you hear my voice?¡±</em>

    Bell was quite shocked to hear Argentum¡¯s voice in his mind without him opening his mouth. Nheless, Bellposed himself as he answered in his mind, <em>¡°Yeah, loud and clear.¡±</em>

    <em>¡°Alright, good to know,¡±</em> Argentum said in response. He then added,<em> ¡°Let me just head back to my original body. I¡¯ll give you the sign through our connection, okay?¡±</em>

    <em>¡°Wait a second¡­that isn¡¯t your original body?¡±</em> Listening to Argentum¡¯s words, Bell could not help but ask in confusion. In response, Argentum replied,<em> ¡°Yeah, this human body isn¡¯t my original body.¡±</em>

    <em>¡°Then, what¡¯s your original body like?¡±</em> Bell asked, slightly curious.

    Argentum took in a deep breath before responding,<em> ¡°A glowing wooden sculpture.¡±</em>

    ¡°¡­¡± Bell was left at a loss for words. Not long after, he said through his proboscis, ¡°To think the heavens hate you as well¡­¡±

    ¡°Eh?¡± Since Bell was talking through his proboscis, Argentum went ahead and opened his eyes and mouth, making this sound. Hearing what Bell said, he could not help but think that there was something hidden in between the words mentioned.

    Fortunately, it did not take long for Argentum to give up, knowing very well that they were still in a war. He positioned his body to lie on a nearby tree, lightly smiling before telling Bell, ¡°Move to a ce nearer where Chonk and the other two are. It¡¯ll be better if you can inflict the poison while I distract him.¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t worry about me.¡± Bell let out a confidentugh. ¡°Just go and distract the being already.¡±

    Hearing those words, Argentum soon closed his eyes before transferring control back to his original body, which was located near the entrance of the alliance base.

    ¡°Mngh¡­¡± At the instant the control was transferred back, Argentum, who was now Aurus, could not help but mumble out a sound as he adapted to the feeling of his wooden sculpture self. It did not take him long to adapt,manding the system to summon Fenrir and Charisa not long after.

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    A few secondster, Fenrir and Charisa appeared in front of him before doing a subservient pose as they said their usual lines of greeting. Aurus ignored this and asked the two of them, ¡°Have you two practiced the chant for the forbidden art?¡±

    ¡°Yes, Master!¡± In response, Fenrir and Charisa replied with slight excitement. Aurus then radiated an aura of satisfaction before saying, ¡°Let¡¯s make our move then!¡±

    ¡­

    <em><strong>Bang! Bang! Bang!</strong></em>

    A couple of minutes have passed since Herellia started pummeling the shit out of Chonk, forming a crater that was around four meters deep already. At this moment, the aura Herellia could feel from Chonk was significantly weaker than earlier. With this in mind, she thought that she just had to pummel him even more and he¡¯ll eventually surrender.

    While continuing to be pummeled, Chonk tried to talk amidst the punches, an expression of arrogance on his face as he told Herellia, ¡°Do you¡­think¡­your alliance¡­has won¡­?¡±

    ¡°By the looks of it, isn¡¯t that the case?¡± Herellia, who did not stop punching Chonk, replied with an aura of confidence and pride radiating around her.

    ¡°Heh¡­heh¡­ow¡­heh¡­¡± Chonk slowly cackled while continuing to endure the punches. Herellia heard this, an aura of confusion radiating from her not long after. A few secondster, Chonk said, ¡°Time¡­for revenge.¡±

    <em><strong>Whoosh!</strong></em>

    In an instant, arge ball of green energy had manifested a meter above Herellia¡¯s head, with Horell shouting out in fear, ¡°Herellia! Watch out!¡±

    ¡°Hm?¡± Hearing those words, Herellia could not help but look up, radiating an aura of slight fear as she noticed therge ball of energy above her head. At this moment, all of the cells making up her body told her that she wasn¡¯t able to escape this attack. She could not help but look at Horell, only to look at Chonk with an expression of rage as she knew that she couldn¡¯t rely on Horell as well due to his low power.

    In response to Herellia¡¯s expression of rage, Chonk let out a grin before saying, ¡°Die.¡±

    <strong>¡°[Ultimate Art: Lucifer¡¯s w of Eternal Damnation].¡±</strong>

    <em><strong>Whoosh!</strong></em>

    <em><strong>Bang!</strong></em>

    An explosion that took on a green color soon appeared where the crater was, with a being letting out a scream of agony as the energy behind explosion greatly destroyed the area it enveloped.

    ¡°¡­eh?¡± While this was happening, Herellia, who thought that she was surely going to die, could not understand how she was a safe distance away from the center of the explosion. She looked around her surroundings, noticing that a w made out of swords was covering her body, with Herellia easily concluding what happened to her just as the explosion happened after seeing it.

    ¡°Looks like I made it in time.¡± Just as she wondered where the w came from, a familiar voice resounded quite a distance away from where she was, making her, as well as Horell, who was still flying in midair, look at the direction of the voice¡¯s origin. At the instant they found out who made the sound, both of them could not help but shout, ¡°Aurus!¡±

    ¡°Yes, I¡¯m Aurus.¡± It did not take long for Aurus, as well as Fenrir and Charisa behind him, to make their way beside Herellia. Not long after, he focused his sense of vision towards the green explosion a distance away from him, muttering, ¡°I guess you reap what you sow.¡±

    <em><strong>Whirr¡­</strong></em>

    It took quite some time for the explosion to dissipate, revealing a jade green wolf covered in mere fragments of armor. Not only that, but it also seemed that the fur on its body was a bit charred due to the explosion. Nevertheless, this wolf was staring at Herellia and Aurus with eyes filled with intense rage, letting out a growl as he shouted, ¡°Using my attack to weaken me¡­how dare you!¡±

    <em><strong>Whoosh!</strong></em>

    Without caring about the injuries on his body, Chonk dashed towards them with both paws covered in an ominous aura. Not only that, an intense aura of the Wind element emanated from both paws as well, letting both Herellia and Aurus know that Chonk was about to do an all-or-nothing attack.

    Just as Herellia was about to take a step forward, Aurus hastily teleported in front of her, focusing his sense of vision towards her before saying, ¡°Take a rest for now. You¡¯ll be leading the alliance for quite a long time.¡±

    ¡°For now¡­¡± Aurus said as he focused his sense of vision towards Chonk.

    ¡°I¡¯ll let Chonk feel the alliance¡¯s hatred.¡±

    ¡°Selective Stun!¡± Aurus shouted without hesitation as he concurrently sent a message through a certain connection.

    Hearing these words, both Horell and Herellia could not help but radiate an aura of confusion. Of course, it did not take long for the aura they radiate to change into shock as they saw what was happening in front of him.

    <em><strong>Whoosh!</strong></em>

    Seemingly out of thin air, arge mosquito appeared a few meters above the dashing Chonk before using its proboscis to pierce through his abdomen as it injected foreign fluid that spread throughout his body. Just as Chonk noticed this, it was already toote.

    <strong>¡°[Selective Stun Imbuement].¡±</strong>

    <strong>¡°[Body].¡±</strong>

    <em><strong>Psshhh¡­</strong></em>

    And just like that, Chonk stopped in his tracks, standing like a lifelike statue a few meters away from Aurus and Herellia. Herellia and Horell were left at a loss for words after seeing what had happened to Chonk. The two of them could not help but think, ¡®Was it always this easy to fight an Animate?¡¯

    As for Aurus, he teleported closer to Chonk while Fenrir and Charisa followed behind him. At the very instant he appeared in front of Chonk, he then said, ¡°Pain Sensitivity.¡±

    Not long after, another foreign fluid was injected into Chonk¡¯s body by the mosquito. The mosquito, who had its proboscis stuck on Chonk¡¯s abdomen, said after injecting the fluid, ¡°I¡¯ve increased the being¡¯s pain sensitivity by ten times with the [Reaching the Heavens] poison. That¡¯s enough of an increase, right?¡±

    ¡°More than enough,¡± Aurus responded to the mosquito¡¯s words before adding, ¡°Get away from Chonk for now, Bell. I¡¯m going to reduce his defenses to inflict the most pain possible.¡±

    Hearing those words, Bell, the mosquito, retracted his proboscis and flew a few meters away from where Aurus was. On the other hand, Aurus summoned nine swords made out of FP, cing them in a circr formation around Chonk.

    ¡°Fenrir, Charisa, step back as well,¡± Aurus focused his sense of vision on the two behind him before saying. At the instant they distanced themselves from Aurus, he willed these nine swords to stick themselves to the ground as he muttered an incantation.

    <strong>¡°Limbo, Lust, Gluttony, Greed, Anger, Heresy, Violence, Fraud, and Treachery.¡±</strong>

    <strong>¡°May these sins inside your body be amplified to levels far beyondprehension, crippling your abilities to the bare minimum.¡±</strong>

    <strong>¡°[Ultimate Art: Nine Realms¡¯ Sealing Array].¡±</strong>

    <em><strong>Whoosh!</strong></em>

    After Aurus was finished chanting the incantation, a faint dark blue haze covered every inch of Chonk¡¯s body, with Chonk¡¯s eyes fixated on Aurus. His eyes radiated intense rage as if it was telling Aurus that once he was free, he would kill him first. In response to this, Aurus let out a malevolentugh before conjuring a sword of energy near Chonk¡¯s behind.

    Although Chonk could not turn his head around to look at where the sword of energy was, it could sense the energy emanating from it, his pupils shrinking at the instant he realized where the sword of energy was aiming. He looked at Aurus with eyes that shouted ¡®Please! Any ce but there!¡¯. Of course, Aurus ignored this voiceless pleading, muttering, ¡°Experience the hatred of the alliances, as well as Horell¡¯s hatred.¡±

    <strong>¡°[Lineage Ending Nut Shot].¡±</strong>

 Chapter 186: A Merciful Death

    Chapter 186: A Merciful Death

    <strong>¡°[Lineage Ending Nut Shot].¡±</strong>

    <em><strong>Swish!</strong></em>

    <em><strong>Plop.</strong></em>

    Without hesitation, Aurus manipted the sword of energy to sh at a certain part of Chonk¡¯s body, a part mostmonly known as the organ that allows one¡¯s bloodline to proliferate for many generations.

    Chonk¡¯s nuts.

    ¡°AAAAAAAHHHH!!!¡± At the very instant both of his nuts dropped on the ground, surprisingly, Chonk was able to break free from the stun that Bell applied on him, opening his mouth as wide as possible as he let out a scream that seemingly pierced the heavens. Alongside that, the area where his nuts were cut off was bleeding profusely. Fortunately, Bell noticed this before he lost even more blood, piercing his proboscis on Chonk¡¯s abdomen before injecting another foreign fluid into Chonk¡¯s bloodstream.

    <strong>¡°[Blood Maniption Imbuement].¡±</strong>

    <strong>¡°[Hemostasis].¡±</strong>

    <em><strong>Whoosh!</strong></em>

    And just like that, the flow of blooding from Chonk¡¯s nuts had stopped in an instant. Nevertheless, Chonk continued to scream out in pain since nuts have a lot of nerve endings. Add in the fact that his sensitivity towards pain was amplified by 10 times thanks to a foreign fluid, it would make sense that this would happen.

    Herellia and Horell looked at Aurus from afar, both radiating an aura of fear after seeing what he had done to a vulnerable Chonk. Never once did they expect that Aurus was going to do that, making a mental note in their minds not long after to not get on his bad side.

    On the other hand, Fenrir and Charisa looked at this as well, and just like Horell and Herellia, the two of them radiated an aura of fear, with Fenrir muttering, ¡°I¡¯m d I¡¯m on Master¡¯s side. If I wasn¡¯t¡­¡±

    He then shook his head multiple times after saying it, not wanting to imagine what would befall him if he wasn¡¯t on Aurus¡¯s side.

    Eventually, around thirty seconds or so, Chonk lost most of his strength to scream out in pain as his throat had gone hoarse, his scream gradually softening before it came to a stop. At this moment, hisplexion had be pale. The fur on his body was not jade green anymore, it now took on a pale green color. His limbs were affected as well, buckling from the pain, but still barely holding on.

    In that state, Chonk¡¯s eyes focused on Aurus, with Aurus focusing his sense of vision back at him. It did not take long for Aurus to notice that there was some intent hidden in Chonk¡¯s gaze, an intent of wanting to speak. After some time, he found out that Chonk lost most of his intent to kill him, being reced with slight fear towards him instead.

    Soon after, he sent a message to Bell through the connection they had, who still had his proboscis poking through Chonk¡¯s abdomen. Obtaining Aurus¡¯s message, Bell then muttered, <strong>¡°[Redirection: Torso].¡±</strong>

    <em><strong>Whoosh!</strong></em>

    In that instant, Chonk felt that something in his bloodstream gradually moved away from the muscles of his head, congregating towards his abdomen and limbs instead. He tried moving his jaw, slightly d that he was able to do so. Not long after, Chonk looked back at Aurus, enduring the pain that was still lingering in his body as he asked him, ¡°Why¡­did you do this¡­to me?¡±

    ¡°Well, you attacked our alliance,¡± Aurus replied to his question. Soon, he added, ¡°Isn¡¯t that enough of a reason for me to do such a thing?¡±

    ¡°Have you¡­ever wondered¡­about the reason¡­why I did it?¡± Chonk pondered over his response, asking this question soon after.

    Hearing this, Aurus could not help but think about Chonk¡¯s motives from a different perspective, taking quite some time to respond, ¡°So¡­you¡¯re saying that there¡¯s a greater reason to this war other than bing the ruler of Tempest Cliff?¡±

    ¡°I yearned¡­to reach greater heights,¡± Chonk answered his question, letting out a few grunts of pain here and there before continuing, ¡°The peak¡­level of¡­a living being¡¯s¡­existence¡­¡±

    At this point, Aurus thought that Chonk dering war against the three alliances was quite a selfish move, letting out a slightly disappointed sigh before telling him, ¡°I presume the reason why you waged war against the three alliances is because your ss has something to do with the Tempest Cliff, right?¡±

    Chonk¡¯s eyes slightly widened at Aurus¡¯s response, muttering, ¡°How¡­did you know?¡±

    ¡°Just a hunch,¡± Aurus soon replied. Not long after, his tone took on a hint of anger as he told Chonk, ¡°Even though your ss is rted to the Tempest Cliff, you didn¡¯t have to wage war with the three alliances, to be honest. Couldn¡¯t you just ask them kindly about your ns? If you did that, then you wouldn¡¯t be in this state.¡±

    ¡°¡­¡± Chonk was at a loss for words, thinking about Aurus¡¯s words over and over again. It did not take long for him to realize¡­that Aurus was right. He had approached this problem at a wrong angle. With that in mind, heughed out loud in a mocking tone, a mocking tone that seemed to be directed at himself.

    Aurus and the others looked at this in silence, sensing the great mncholy that was radiating from him. While he was stillughing, Aurus teleported to where Fenrir and Charisa were, telling the both of them, ¡°Let¡¯s dispel the Ignis Zephyr Anima Form. It seems we don¡¯t even need to use the forbidden art anymore.¡±

    He then focused his sense of vision towards Chonk, uttering, ¡°That wolf¡­has lost his will to fight already.¡±

    <em><strong>Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!</strong></em>

    It did not take long for the aura emanating from the three to return to their original states. Coincidentally, Chonk was finishedughing, with his eyes fixated towards Herellia and the hovering Horell. After looking at them for quite some time, he then said something that made everyone in the area look at him with shock.

    ¡°By the looks of it¡­I¡¯m undoubtedly¡­going to die¡­here. Let¡¯s settle¡­our grievances¡­here and¡­now.¡±

    Everyone in the area, except for Chonk, looked at each other, wondering if they had heard it correctly. Noticing this, Chonk took in a deep breath as most of the pain he felt subsided before saying once more, ¡°Let¡¯s settle our grievances here and now.¡±

    With Chonk repeating his statement, Aurus then looked at Herellia and Horell, with Herellia radiating an aura that she was raring to settle their grievances. As for Horell, the aura he had was around the same as Herellia, just that there was a slight difference.

    A hint of pity.

    Aurus thought about this and concluded that it was understandable. Horell¡¯s life was saved by Chonk, and here he was, on the opposing side of the one who saved his life. Horell did hate the fact that he was used as a tool by the one who saved him, but once Horell thought about it, it was akin to repaying for what Chonk had done.

    Sensing that the aura emanating from Herellia had intensified quite a bit, Aurus looked at Bell and sent a message through the connection.

    <em>¡°Bell, dispel pain sensitivity. This fight is approaching its end.¡±</em>

    <em>¡°Alright,¡±</em> Bell responded through the connection, disabling the amplification to Chonk¡¯s pain sensitivity before retracting his proboscis and hovering a couple of meters away from Chonk.

    At this moment, Aurus held a bit of pity towards Chonk, knowing very well what aiming for the peak entailed. In that path, there were times where one would make mistakes, possibly getting tens¡­hundreds¡­thousands caught up in a disaster that they didn¡¯t expect to befall them. But since Chonk was an enemy of the alliance, this was the least he could do out of pity before ultimately ending the enemy¡¯s life, letting out a sigh as he told Herellia, ¡°Go and settle your grievances, Herellia. You¡¯re raring to go at him at this point.¡±

    <strong>Whoosh!</strong>

    Hearing those words, Herellia did not hesitate to dash towards Chonk at the shortest time possible, clenching both fists before sending a barrage of punches on Chonk¡¯s vulnerable body. With each consecutive punch, the strength behind it gradually grew, inflict more pain on Chonk as time passed by.

    Of course, with his pain sensitivity back to normal, the amount of pain he felt was now negligible. He slowly turned his head to look at Aurus, who was a decent distance away from him and gave him a look of silent gratitude. Nevertheless, the words let out by Herellia would inflict more pain on himpared to getting his nuts cut off.

    ¡°Why¡­why did you kill everyone in those two alliances?¡± Herellia shouted in a mncholic tone before changing her tone to that of anger. ¡°What did they ever do to you?!¡±

    ¡°They were only minding their business, but you just went ahead and decided to wage war against them on a whim. Don¡¯t you think that¡¯s fucking stupid?!¡± Herellia continued to yell amidst the punching.

    ¡°Have you ever wondered what their expressions were like? What they were feeling? What they thought about while fighting against you? <strong>OF COURSE NOT! YOU KILLED THEM WITHOUT GIVING A DAMN AS TO WHAT THEY THOUGHT!</strong>¡°

    ¡°Sure, us Inanimates may not be on the same level as you Animates, but we still have souls, we have a conscience of our own,¡± Herellia muttered, her tone bing mncholic once again before reverting to intense rage. ¡°You did not even think about that, did you? You thought of us as some mere sticks and saplings that you could just break without worrying about the repercussions, right?¡±

    ¡°To me¡­¡± At this moment, Herellia stopped punching, retracting her right fist as multiple blood-red tendrils manifested near her right wrist, wrapping around the clenched fist like boxing gloves. She then channeled all of her aura towards her right fist, sending it out at her full strength.

    ¡°You¡¯re just a murderer.¡±

    <strong>¡°[Forbidden Sanguine Art: Crimson Spirit Zero].¡±</strong>

    <strong>¡°[Repentance].¡±</strong>

    <strong>Whoosh!</strong>

    Arge gust of wind had been formed from the punch, with Chonk closing his eyes in response to the feeling that this punch could possibly end his life. He closed his eyes for a few seconds, wondering why his body did not feel any pain yet, prompting him to open his eyes a few secondster.

    At the very instant he opened it, he saw that Herellia¡¯s fist was only a few centimeters away from his face. After some time, the fist in front of him gradually shrunk in size as the blood-red tendrils covering Herellia¡¯s fist shriveled up before she retracted it. Nevertheless, this did not stop her from radiating an aura of disgust towards Chonk, muttering, ¡°I want to hit you so hard that it would kill you, but death wouldn¡¯t bring back the souls of the dead.¡±

    After saying those words, she turned around, with Horell gradually making his way towards him. At this point, a feeling of intense regret enveloped Chonk¡¯s body. He had the intense want to turn back time. If he was able to, he would change his approach to attaining the peak into one that did not harm innocent beings in the process. Unfortunately for him, he did not have the power to do so.

    <em><strong>Drip.</strong></em>

    At the instant Horell had appeared in front of him, tears were already trickling down Chonk¡¯s face, silently sobbing from the thoughts that were in his mind. Of course, this wasn¡¯t left unnoticed by Horell, his aura gradually changing from hatred to pity as he sensed that Chonk was feeling regret over his past actions.

    Nevertheless, Horell still had a lot of hatred towards the wolf in front of him, muttering, ¡°Chonk, I don¡¯t have much to say regarding making me as your servant since you saved my life. That was more or less a means of repayment for what you¡¯ve done.¡±

    ¡°But have you ever wondered the feelings of those who you forcefully turned into servants?¡± Horell continued talking as a small ball of energy manifested above his head. Chonk did not notice this small ball at all, continuing to silently sob as he was apologizing in his mind, his sadness intensifying, knowing that his apologies wouldn¡¯t bring them back.

    ¡°Have you ever wondered about the feelings of those that joined your army? Of course not.¡± At this moment, the small ball above Horell¡¯s head radiated an intense aura of power as he sent it flying towards Chonk while saying:

    ¡°You only thought about yourself.¡±

    <em><strong>Bang!</strong></em>

    An explosion soon urred on Chonk¡¯s abdomen, snapping Chonk from his daze of profusely apologizing in his mind, sensing the pain that came from the explosion. Just as he thought that he would feel more pain from the explosion, it had abruptly stopped, with Chonk promptly looking at Horell, who was radiating an aura filled with pity at this point.

    Without a word, Horell turned around, sending Aurus a message through a strand of energy, to which Aurus sent one back in response. Not long after, Aurus made his way towards Chonk, with Chonk looking at Aurus with amenting gaze.

    Just as Chonk thought that Aurus was going to attack him with the strongest skill, Aurus spoke to Chonk instead, telling him something that made Chonk look at Horell with a look of slight gratitude.

    ¡°I understand your perspective quite well, Chonk. But s, you truly have made the wrong choice,¡± Aurus said to him before adding, ¡°Fortunately for you, Horell tells me to spare you. With this, you¡¯ll get a new lease in li¡ª¡±

    Before Aurus could finish his sentence, Chonk sent him a strand of energy as he looked at Aurus with a gaze of expectation, saying, ¡°I¡¯ve killed too many beings already. I can¡¯t live without regrets in this world anymore.¡±

    ¡°Please kill me instead.¡±

    Hearing Chonk¡¯s voice resound throughout his mind through the strand of energy, Aurus pondered over Chonk¡¯s words for a bit before letting out a sigh. He then focused his sense of vision towards Bell who was still floating a couple of meters away from Chonk and sent a message through their connection.

    <em>¡°Bell,¡±</em> Aurus said.

    <em>¡°You¡¯re free to suck him up.¡±</em>

    <em>¡°You sure?¡±</em> Although Bell was eager to go ahead and suck Chonk dry, he could not help but think twice, wondering if it was truly okay to do so as he sent a message back.

    <em>¡°Yeah,¡±</em> Aurus soon replied before adding, <em>¡°That¡¯s what he wished.¡±</em>

    <em>¡°I won¡¯t hold back then,¡±</em> Bell replied before activating a few skills not long after.

    <strong>¡°[Ranged Absorption].¡±</strong>

    <strong>¡°[Vitality Siphoning].¡±</strong>

    <em><strong>Slurp!</strong></em>

    A few secondster, Chonk felt his energy hastily being sapped away by an unknown source, prompting him to look at Aurus in front of him with eyes of gratitude, muttering two words before all of his energy was sapped dry.

    ¡°Thank you¡­¡±

    <em><strong>Thud.</strong></em>

    And so, on a fateful day, Chonk, known as the Demon of the Tempest Cliff by the Inanimates, fell to the ground near the base of the Tempest Branch Alliance with a thud, his remains being a dried corpse.

    After the war, rumors had spread across the whole Tempest Cliff that Chonk wished to die after having a change of heart, but only a handful of beings knew what had truly happened.

    Nevertheless, the War of Tempest Cliff had finallye to an end.

    <strong>The Tempest Branch Alliance had won.</strong>

 Chapter 187: Verdant Blossom Branch Alliance

    Chapter 187: Verdant Blossom Branch Alliance

    Looking at the dried corpse in front of him, Aurus had mixed emotions in his mind, eventually letting out a sigh that embodied all of them. Not long after, he focused his sense of vision towards Herellia and Horell, not before muttering a few words to the corpse that was behind him.

    ¡°May your soul rest in peace.¡±

    He then went ahead and teleported closer to Herellia and Horell whilemanding Fenrir and Charisa to get closer to them as well. At the instant all of them were gathered together, Aurus looked at them, noticing the various emotions they felt before radiating an aura of slight tion and happiness soon after.

    ¡°The alliance has finally won,¡± Aurus said in a slightly happy tone. He then added, ¡°We are the sole rulers of Tempest Cliff now.¡±

    Hearing these words, Herellia could not help but radiate an aura of slight mncholy. On the other hand, Horell radiated an aura ofposure, yet his sense of vision was focused on Herellia, knowing very well what was going on in her mind.

    ¡°What¡¯s wrong, Herellia? Shouldn¡¯t you be happy that we won?¡± Aurus asked her this question after noticing the aura radiating from her, only to remember her words from a while ago. After that moment of realization, he hastily uttered, ¡°No, wait. I¡¯m sorry for being insensitive. I shouldn¡¯t have said that.¡±

    Herellia heard Aurus¡¯s words, focusing her sense of vision towards him before letting out a short sigh. She then replied, ¡°No worries. As I¡¯ve said before, one cannot bring back the souls of the dead. I¡¯ve somewhate to terms with the deaths of the Verdant Nut and Blossom Breeze Alliance after Chonk died.¡±

    She then focused her sense of vision towards the empty alliance base a distance away from them, muttering to herself, ¡°I shouldn¡¯t dwell on the past¡­but why do I still have the feeling that they must¡¯ve survived?¡±

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    Just as Herellia muttered those words to herself, a group of sticks and saplings gradually made their way towards Herellia and the group, all of them radiating auras far weaker than them.

    The first one to notice this group was Horell, who had a greater view of the area due to him still hovering. At the very instant he noticed them, he hastily said to Aurus and the others, ¡°Guys, we have some surprise guestsing to where we are. Their power level is around¡­B to A-grade Inanimate.¡±

    Hearing this, Herellia focused her sense of vision towards the direction where the group of sticks and saplings wereing from. As for Aurus, he did the same thing as well whilemanding the system to keep Fenrir and Charisa, leaving only him, Herellia, and Horell near Chonk¡¯s dried-up corpse.

    With the three of them being vignt, the group had eventually arrived in front of them, with an old-looking branch rolling forwards to be in front of the group.

    Just as Herellia was about to ask the group what their intentions foring near them were, the old-looking branch radiated an aura of relief and happiness as it said, ¡°Ah, thank goodness! The Tempest Branch Alliance wasn¡¯t destroyed by Chonk!¡±

    These words left the three at a loss for words, with the old-looking branch turning around to look at the sticks and saplings that came with it as it continued, ¡°Then again, the Tempest Branch Alliance is the strongest alliance in Tempest Cliff, right?¡±

    ¡°Right! The Tempest Branch Alliance is the strongest alliance!¡± the sticks and saplings behind the old-looking branch replied in unison, increasing the confusion Herellia and the others felt by a few degrees.

    ¡°Er¡­may I ask who you might be?¡± Seeing as the group that came seemed to be in adoration towards them, Herellia reduced her vignce towards the group and asked this question to the old-looking branch. In response to this, the old-looking branch let out a short chuckle, replying with words that seemed to not answer Herellia¡¯s question.

    ¡°I guess the skill I¡¯ve crafted is quite effective.¡± The old-looking branch then radiated an aura of slight happiness as it said to Herellia, ¡°Hello, Herellia. I wonder if you remember the super-smart me?¡±

    Herellia listened to the old-looking branch¡¯s question, the words it said bringing out memories in her mind in an instant. Looking through the surfaced memories, the aura radiating from Herellia had changed from vignce to shock, her voice slightly quaking as she asked, ¡°Harriott¡­is that really you?¡±

    ¡°Although I¡¯ve sacrificed a ton of my power just to create a second body of myself, it is indeed me,¡± the old-looking branch replied to Herellia¡¯s words before letting out a chuckle. Not long after, the old-looking branch let out a sigh of relief, ¡°Fortunately, I was able to teach this skill I made to the leader of the Blossom Breeze Alliance and a few of their important members before Chonk struck.¡±

    Hearing these words, Herellia¡¯s shock had intensified, asking, ¡°Cermalia¡­is also alive?¡±

    Whoosh!

    At the instant she finished asking those questions, a slightly crooked sapling moved beside to where the old-looking branch was, radiating an aura of happiness as it replied, ¡°What? Do you seriously want to see us die that badly?¡±

    Finding out that the two of them were alive all this time, Herellia could not help but radiate an aura of intense happiness as blood-red fluid started to drip from the eyes of the Crimson Spirit. The happiness she felt was too overwhelming, prompting her to scream, ¡°Thank the heavens you two are alive!¡±

    On the other hand, Aurus and Horell looked at this from a bystander¡¯s viewpoint, with Aurus utilizing the soul connection he had with Horell as he asked, ¡°Horell, do you know who Herellia is talking about?¡±

    ¡°Harriott, the leader of the Tempest Branch Alliance, and Cermalia, the leader of the Blossom Branch Alliance,¡± Horell replied to Aurus¡¯s question before adding, ¡°I don¡¯t know how they did it, but they survived Chonk¡¯s attacks at the cost of their power reverting to around B to A-grade Inanimate.¡±

    ¡°I see¡­¡± Aurus said after listening to Horell. Not long after, he pondered over a few things before telling Horell, ¡°Well, I guess I won¡¯t disturb Herellia¡¯s reunion. I¡¯m pretty sure you know a few important people from those alliances as well so go and greet them.¡±

    Noticing the tone of slight indifference in Aurus¡¯s words, Horell asked, ¡°How about you? What are you going to do?¡±

    ¡°Me?¡± Aurus radiated an aura of slight happiness before replying, ¡°As the vice leader of the alliance, shouldn¡¯t I go ahead and tell the alliance members that we¡¯ve won the war?¡±

    Swoosh!

    And so, without letting Horell reply, Aurus disappeared in front of Horell¡¯s field of vision, with Horell letting out a short sigh before lightly chuckling. He then muttered, ¡°You could¡¯ve just told me that you were jealous, you know.¡±

    ¡­

    Whoosh!

    It did not take long for Aurus to arrive at the back of the alliance base, appearing in front of the alliance members who were still in an arrow formation all this time. At the very instant he had appeared in front of them, the alliance members hastily moved towards him, transforming the arrow formation into a circr formation that circled Aurus.

    All of them were eager to know what had happened after they shot their strongest skills at the alliance leader. Nheless, since Aurus was the vice leader of the alliance, many of them were quite nervous to ask him this question. Fortunately for most of the alliance members, a decently sized tree came closer to Aurus, catching Aurus¡¯s question as he asked the tree, ??What¡¯s your name?¡±

    ¡°Verutia, Vice Leader,¡± the tree responded to his question, with Aurus remembering what Verutia had done in the war. Recalling this, he said, ¡°Ah, you¡¯re the leader of the party we sent out.¡±

    ¡°Yes,¡± Verutia briefly answered his question as she went silent for quite some time. Eventually, she mustered up her courage as she asked him, ¡°Vice Leader, what happened¡­in the war?¡±

    In response to this, Aurus went silent, making the alliance members feel that something bad has happened. He then teleported towards the back wall of the alliance base, hastily conjuring a decently sized portal that led to the main hall of the alliance base in about a minute or so.

    Swish¡­swish¡­

    At the instant the portal was sessfully connected and conjured, Aurus focused his sense of vision towards the alliance members who were now in a semicircr formation around him. Not long after, he radiated an intense aura of happiness as he said, ¡°Chonk is dead. Our alliance has won.¡±

    ¡°Now go back to the main hall and make Herellia¡¯s feel the alliance¡¯s victory!¡±

    ¡°¡­¡± A moment of silence spread throughout the alliance members for a few seconds until¡­

    ¡°Hooray for the Tempest Branch Alliance!¡±

    ¡°We won!¡±

    ¡°As expected from the Alliance Leader and Vice Leader!¡±

    ¡°Our alliance shall be the strongest alliance in Tempest Cliff!¡±

    Incessant cheers soon came from the alliance members as they rushed towards the portal without hesitation, forcing Aurus to hover above the portal before lightly chuckling at what they were doing. It did not take long for all of the alliance members to cross the portal, leaving Aurus alone at the back of the alliance base a couple of minutester.

    After making sure that everyone had crossed the portal, he dispelled the portal before sending a message through a certain connection. A minute or soter, Aurus could vividly hear the sound of wings pping, prompting him to look at the origin of that sound with an aura of happiness, saying, ¡°Thanks for your help, Bell.¡±

    Bell, who had just arrived at the back of the alliance base thanks to Aurus¡¯s message, was slightly startled by Aurus¡¯s abrupt show of gratitude, hastilyposing himself a few secondster as he replied, ¡°Well, I did reap a few gains from sucking that rabbit and wolf, so I have to thank you as well.¡±

    Not long after, Bell went ahead and lowered his altitude to afortable height, looking at Aurus at ¡®eye level¡¯. Just as Bell was feeling that the silence between them was awkward, Aurus went ahead and broke the silence as he asked, ¡°With that now over, what are you going to do next?¡±

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡± Bell pondered Aurus¡¯s question for a bit before answering, ¡°I might go back to where I came from after I talk to you about some stuff.¡±

    ¡°Eh? That soon?¡± Aurus was slightly shocked at how fast Bell was going to leave, remembering that they talked about how Bell entered this ce just some time ago. Just as Aurus was going to persuade him to stay, Bell went ahead and said, ¡°Don¡¯t try to persuade me. By the looks of it, I don¡¯t even have enough strength to travel the whole world unhindered. I still have to get stronger.¡±

    ¡°Speaking of which,¡± Bell added. ¡°You should go to that red spirit thing. No, wait, the branch with the red squiggly lines. They¡¯re talking about something important right now.¡±

    ¡°How about you?¡± Aurus asked before adding, ¡°Are you going to stay here?¡±

    ¡°Yeah,¡± Bell replied to his question in an instant. ¡°Just send me a message through our connection once you¡¯re done.¡±

    ¡°Alright then,¡± Aurus answered before letting out a short sigh. A few secondster, Aurus had disappeared from Bell¡¯s field of vision, leaving Bell alone to himself.

    With him being alone, Bell could not help but mutter, ¡°I can¡¯t help but feel a resonance to this being. Perhaps¡­he has a system just like me?¡±

    ¡­

    Whoosh!

    It did not take long for Aurus to appear where Herellia and the others were at, with all of them radiating an aura of happiness and reminiscence as they continued to banter at the instant he arrived. Nevertheless, his appearance hadn¡¯t gone unnoticed as Horell muttered, ¡°Ah, Aurus. You¡¯re back.¡±

    Hearing these words, Herellia, who had already dispelled her Crimson Spirit form, turned to look at Aurus and said, ¡°Great timing, Aurus. Anyways, why did you disappear for a bit?¡±

    ¡°I transported the alliance members back to the main hall,¡± Aurus replied to her question. He then added, ¡°I¡¯m pretty sure they¡¯re just waiting for us to arrive.¡±

    ¡°I see,¡± Herellia responded to his answer, feeling great gratitude towards Aurus inside. Not long after, she then said, ¡°Anyways, you truly dide at a great time. Harriott, the leader of the former Verdant Nut Alliance, Cermalia, the leader of the former Blossom Breeze Alliance, and I were thinking up of a name for the Tempest Branch Alliance.¡±

    She then added, ¡°We¡¯ve decided to unite the three former alliances as one, each with their respective divisions so the Tempest Cliff could be safely protected. The problem is¡­¡±

    ¡°We¡¯re having a hard time thinking up of a good name for this new alliance.¡±

    ¡°¡­¡± Aurus was left at a loss for words, wondering how three alliance leaders, with two of them previously being at the peak grades of an Inanimate, are having a hard time thinking up of a good name.

    Eventually, he let out a sigh as he responded, ¡°How about you fuse the names of the alliances into one good name?¡±

    ¡°So¡­Verdant Nut Blossom Breeze Tempest Branch Alliance?¡± This time, Harriott, the old-looking branch, responded to Aurus¡¯s question with this answer. Cermalia, the slightly crooked sapling, soon responded to Harriott¡¯s response, saying, ¡°For someone who calls himself super smart, that¡¯s not a super smart move.¡±

    ¡°Naming isn¡¯t my forte, Cermalia. You know that already,¡± Harriott radiated an aura of slight annoyance towards Cermalia. Not long after, he then focused his sense of vision towards her and asked, ¡°How about you? Do you have a good name?¡±

    ¡°Of course I do,¡± Cermalia let out a chuckle as she responded to his question. She then gathered the attention of everyone in the vicinity before saying, ¡°How about we name the new alliance the Verdant Blossom Branch Alliance? We have the word ¡®Verdant¡¯ from ¡®Verdant Nut¡¯, ¡®Blossom¡¯ from ¡®Blossom Breeze¡¯, and ¡®Branch¡¯ from ¡®Tempest Branch¡¯. Doesn¡¯t it sound nice?¡±

    Hearing the new name, Herellia hastily agreed to this suggestion, saying, ¡°I like that name. I think we should go with it.¡±

    Not long after, Horell voiced his opinion, saying, ¡°Although it¡¯s a bit wordy, it¡¯s less wordy than Harriott¡¯s suggestion. I think we should go with it as well.¡±

    Aurus went ahead and voiced his opinion as well, saying, ¡°I think I don¡¯t have the authority to voice out my opinion, but that does sound nice. I think it¡¯s a good name for the new alliance.¡±

    Eventually, Harriott, the old-looking branch let out a sigh before saying, ¡°I hate to admit it, but Cermalia, you seriously have a good knack for naming things. I love the name. Let¡¯s go with it.¡±

    Around half a minuteter, the sticks and saplings that came with Harriott and Cermalia voiced out their agreements as well. With that, Herellia went ahead and said, ¡°I guess everyone agrees with the name then. Let me officiate it.¡±

    ¡°With the power vested in me as the Tempest Branch Alliance¡¯s leader, a new alliance shall be formed under the leadership of me, Harriott, and Cermalia.¡±

    ¡°Let the death of Chonk be the starting point of a new age in Tempest Cliff, a new age of peace.¡±

    ¡°I now announce to the heavens that the Verdant Blossom Branch Alliance is born.¡±

 Chapter 188: What Lies Beyond

    Chapter 188: What Lies Beyond

    Whirr¡­

    At the instant Herellia was finished saying these words, a loud rumble resounded throughout the area where the alliance base of the newly named ¡®Verdant Blossom Branch Alliance¡¯ lied. Although Horell, Aurus, and the other sticks and saplings that came with Harriott and Cermalia were dumbfounded at what was happening, the leaders of the three former alliances looked at this phenomenon and radiated auras of happiness and excitement.

    Amidst the rumbling, Harriott focused his vision towards Herellia and asked with slight curiosity, ¡°Herellia, did you always have this idea in mind?¡±

    ¡°Well, I did n on strengthening my alliance to a higher level, but never did I expect that you two were still alive,¡± Herellia let out a light chuckle as she responded. She then added, ¡°With you two here, the process of strengthening the alliance was brought forward by quite a lot of time.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯ll take a while for us to get back to our previous level of strength, but we¡¯ll make sure that the Verdant Blossom Branch Alliance shall flourish under our leadership,¡± Cermalia said after listening to Herellia¡¯s reply.

    Herellia pondered over something for a bit while the ground continued to rumble, taking a few seconds to recall something she had done while officiating the new alliance. After recalling it, she gathered the attention of both Harriott and Cermalia, saying, ¡°Ah, now I remember what I did. I said that the alliance shall be under the leadership of us three, right?¡±

    ¡°Yeah?¡± Harriott and Cermalia responded in an instant to her question, slightly nervous at what she was going to say next. Both of them had a bad feeling about what she was going to say, and it seemed that that was going to happen.

    Letting out a yful chuckle, Herellia soon uttered, ¡°Well¡­you¡¯ll see it once the rumbling finishes.¡±

    Coincidentally, at the exact moment Herellia was finished saying that, the rumbling had abruptly stopped, being reced with a wave of energy that seemed to radiate a feeling that it was invincible. This wave of energy soon enveloped Herellia, Harriott, and Cermalia. Not long after, this wave also enveloped Aurus and Horell, as well as the other sticks and saplings that came with Harriott and Cermalia.

    Ding!

    A few secondster, this wave of energy seeped in through their bodies, gradually fusing with the cells that made up their bodies as their auras had intensified by quite a few notches. Although Harriott and Cermalia were shocked at how their auras were already at the level of an S-grade Inanimate even though they were far weaker than that, the most shocked out of the beings that were gathered far away from the alliance base was¡­Aurus.

    ¡°Eh?¡± Hearing a notification sound resound throughout his mind just as the wave of energy was finished fusing with the Anima and Flux making up his body, hemanded the system to open up a notification screen in front of his field of vision, letting out a soft sound of confusion¡­only to be soon reced with a loud shout of surprise, which attracted the attention of everyone in the surroundings.

    ¡®The alliance the user is affiliated with, the Tempest Branch Alliance, has changed its name to the Verdant Blossom Branch Alliance.¡¯

    ¡®The Verdant Blossom Branch Alliance has been upgraded to Level 6.¡¯

    ¡®Due to the increase in the alliance¡¯s level, [Power of the Alliance (Vice Leader Variant)] has been upgraded to [Unified Power of the Alliance (Vice Leader Variant)].¡¯

    ¡®Due to the decisions made by the leader of the alliance, the skill [Unified Power of the Alliance (War Commander Variant)] has been given to the user.¡¯

    ¡®The Verdant Blossom Branch Alliance has been epted by the heavens as the sole ruling alliance of the Tempest Cliff. All of those that are affiliated with the alliance have been given the skill [Guardian of the Tempest Cliff] by the heavens.¡¯

    ¡®The efficacy of [Alliance Call] and [Judgement] have been increased.¡¯

    ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡± Herellia asked as she heard Aurus¡¯s scream of surprise, to which Aurus hastily answered after reading through the notifications, ¡°Herellia, I don¡¯t deserve that much. I¡¯m already fine with being the Vice Leader of the alliance.¡±

    ¡°What do you mean?¡± Herellia radiated an aura of slight tion as she responded. ¡°You¡¯ve contributed the most out of all of the members in the alliance in the war against Chonk. Not to mention, you¡¯re the only one in the alliance that could fight toe-to-toe against someone two existence levels higher.¡±

    ¡°So don¡¯t go and say that you don¡¯t deserve the position of War Commander,¡± Herellia added before looking at Harriott and Cermalia. She then said to them, ¡°And that¡¯s how it is. Aurus is still the Vice Leader of the alliance while being its War Commander as well. I presume you two don¡¯t have anyints about that?¡±

    ¡°From what you¡¯re saying, Aurus truly deserves that position,¡± Harriott replied as he let out a sigh. He then looked at Cermalia, to which Cermalia continued where Harriott left off, saying, ¡°Compared to him, we¡¯re nothing but specks of sand. We were the leaders of our respective alliances, but we were the first ones to escape using this skill. We did not think about most of the members of our alliance. Don¡¯t you think it¡¯s cowardly for us to do so?¡±

    ¡°Well, you did what you could,¡± Herellia responded to Cermalia¡¯s words after pondering over it for a few seconds. She then added, ¡°Anyways, moving on from that, I¡¯ve appointed the two of you as Elders of the alliance. Do you have any problems with that position?¡±

    ¡°Why would we?¡± Cermalia was the one who responded to Herellia¡¯s question this time. She then added, ¡°To take us as the Elders of the alliance even though we¡¯re at a level of strength far lower than the normal members of the alliance, we are quite ashamed. Nheless, we shall strive to reach our previous level of strength as soon as possible.¡±

    After hearing their response, Herellia then focused her sense of vision towards Horell, who was still floating in midair and said, ¡°Horell, since you¡¯re at the existence level of a Pseudo-Animate, are you fine with being the Supreme Guardian of the alliance?¡±

    Hearing this, Horell felt warm inside as he soon responded, ¡°I have no qualms with that, Alliance Leader. I¡¯d be d to take up the position.¡±

    And just like that, the high positions of the new alliance were settled. As for the sticks and saplings that came with Harriott and Cermalia, they were given the position of being the leaders of the new divisions under Harriott and Cermalia, to which they dly epted without hesitation.

    ¡°With that settled, it¡¯s time to celebrate our victory, don¡¯t you think?¡± Herellia said after appointing the sticks and saplings, looking at Aurus and the others with an aura of excitement. Without hesitation, Horell and the others happily agreed to Herellia¡¯s suggestion. The only exception to that was Aurus, who said to Herellia through a strand of energy, ¡°I¡¯ll go and join you guyster. I still have to do something.¡±

    ¡°Eh?¡± Herellia was slightly shocked to get this response from Aurus, who from her perspective seemed to always be the first one to agree with what she wanted to do. She pondered over Aurus¡¯s answer for a bit, sending a strand of energy back to him in response with the message, ¡°Does this something have to do with the Animate that helped you out just before Chonk died?¡±

    ¡°Pretty much,¡± Aurus sent a strand of energy back at her, replying without hesitation. He then sent a strand of energy not long after that, saying, ¡°I have to settle some things with the Animate. The being¡¯s work isn¡¯t really for free.¡±

    ¡°I see,¡± Herellia responded to his words not long after with a strand of energy. She then said to him without utilizing a strand of energy, ¡°Come back as soon as possible, okay? You might miss out on a ton of stuff.¡±

    ¡°I will,¡± Aurus hastily responded to her words as he radiated an aura of gratitude before disappearing from the vision of everyone in the surroundings in an instant.

    ¡­

    Whoosh!

    It did not take long for Aurus to teleport back to where Bell was. This time though, he teleported a decent distance away from him as he wanted to check on the skills he had received from the alliance upgrade while slowly flying to where Bell was.

    ¡°Let¡¯s see the effects of the skills I¡¯ve gotten. From the names of the skills, they¡¯re all passive skills,¡± Aurus muttered as he brought up the notification screen one more time, looking at the first three skills he had received from the alliance upgrade.

    ¡°System, identify the two [Unified Power of the Alliance] skills I¡¯ve gotten,¡± he soon said in a soft voice as he continued to make his way to the back of the alliance, the notification screen in front of his field of vision soon reced with two decently sized holographic screens. After taking a nce through the descriptions of the two skills, Aurus could not help but take in a deep breath of air through his body as he muttered, ¡°You¡¯re kidding, right?¡±

    Ding! Ding!

    ________

    [Unified Power of the Alliance (Vice Leader Variant)] (Level 6)

    The will of every member in the alliance has united as one, bringing forth astonishing power that would make those that are not affiliated with any alliance cower in fear. Being the vice leader of the alliance, that astonishing power is bolstered further, even making those from weaker alliances worship your power.

    > All stats +400%

    (Note: The stat boost can grow further depending on your species grade and level of authority within the alliance.)

    ________

    ________

    [Unified Power of the Alliance (War Commander Variant)] (Level 6)

    The will of every member in the alliance has united as one, bringing forth astonishing power that would make those that are not affiliated with any alliance cower in fear. The warmander of an alliance holds a special position in the alliance, well known for its prowess in fighting against multiple enemies at once. The power of the alliance propels this prowess to unimaginable heights.

    > Health +150%

    > Defense +150%

    > Attack +250%

    (Note: Only one being in the alliance can hold this position at any given time.)

    ________

    ¡°After I¡¯m done with everything, I¡¯m seriously going to go and evolve,¡± Aurus muttered to himself as he closed the two screens in disbelief,manding the system to open up the description for the other skill he had obtained.

    As a holographic screen reced the two holographic screens that were in front of his field of vision a while ago, Aurus went ahead and took a nce at the effects of the skill. After reading through it, he muttered, ¡°Although its effects are less than what the [Unified Power of the Alliance] can bring, considering the number of passive skills I have that boost my stats¡­can I still be considered an S-grade Inanimate?

    Ding!

    ________

    [Guardian of the Tempest Cliff] (Level MAX)

    Bestowed by the heavens to those that have protected and will protect the Tempest Cliff to the bitter end, this skill increases the stats of the user by quite a considerable degree. Not only that, but those that have this skill shall also be considered invincible in the area of Tempest Cliff.

    > All stats +50%

    > HP and FP regeneration rate is increased by 200% when inside the Tempest Cliff

    ________

    ¡°Ah, I¡¯m finally here,¡± Aurus said as he closed thest holographic screen, sending a message to Bell after making sure that he was truly at the back of the alliance base by utilizing the system. A few secondster, Aurus could hear some faint buzzing that gradually grew louder, with a mosquito appearing in front of his field of vision a whileter.

    ¡°You¡¯re finally here,¡± Bell was the first one to initiate the conversation, speaking through his proboscis. ¡°How did it go?¡±

    ¡°Alright, I guess?¡± Aurus did not know how to respond to such a question. He then added, ¡°The alliance I¡¯m in has just strengthened further, with my positions bing more solidified as well.¡±

    Aurus soon radiated the full extent of his aura, to which Bell sucked in a cold breath of air in response. Soon, Bell said, ¡°Your strength¡­it has increased by quite a lot.¡±

    ¡°Anyways, that¡¯s not what we¡¯re going to talk about,¡± Bell added not long after, remembering what he had to talk about with him. In response, Aurus asked him, ¡°What are we going to talk about?¡±

    ¡°First off, what world is this?¡± Bell asked Aurus, to which Aurus promptly responded, ¡°The world of Erudinia. Why?¡±

    ¡°As expected.¡± Hearing Aurus¡¯s response, Bell let out a sigh of relief. ¡°From the aura I was sensing while in this world, it didn¡¯t seem like the ce for the inheritance of a cultivator to be in.¡±

    ¡°Cultivator?¡± Aurus could not help but mutter as a memory in his mind had surfaced. While Aurus was recalling this memory, Bell continued to talk, saying, ¡°I¡¯m not from this world. I¡¯m from another world called Changliang.¡±

    Fortunately, it did not take long for Aurus to go through the surfaced memory, responding to Bell¡¯s statement with, ¡°I kind of expected you to be from another world, seeing as you came to this ce through a rift. It was either you came from a faraway ce in this world, or you came from another world as a whole.¡±

    ¡°Anyways, you mentioned the word ¡®cultivator¡¯ right?¡± Aurus soon asked Bell before adding, ¡°The ones that grow stronger by cultivating qi and stuff, right?¡±

    Bell could not help but be dumbfounded after listening to Aurus¡¯s query, muttering, ¡°How¡­¡±

    At that moment, something clicked in Bell¡¯s mind. His eyes focused on Aurus, while Aurus focused on Bell. Although there was pure silence between them, the two had undergone a mutual understanding.

    ¡°System?¡± Breaking the silence, Aurus asked Bell.

    ¡°Mhm,¡± Bell responded without hesitation. Soon after, he asked Aurus, ¡°Past life?¡±

    ¡°Human on Earth,¡± Aurus replied to his query, with Bell saying not long after, ¡°Same.¡±

    After a few more seconds of silence after that, the two of them started to lightly chuckle, which then turned into raucousughter. Fortunately, they were at the back of the alliance base, plus they were in an area where Animates were rarely seen so they continued to raucouslyugh without a care in the world.

    Eventually, they stoppedughing, with Bell saying, ¡°To think that I¡¯d meet a fellow reincarnator in another world. Have you seen any other beings like us in this world?¡±

    ¡°Unfortunately, not yet,¡± Aurus replied before adding, ¡°You¡¯re the first one I¡¯ve met that¡¯s a reincarnator. Anyways, have you ever wondered why you were brought to this ce?¡±

    ¡°To be honest, I sincerely have no idea why I was brought here,¡± Bell responded to Aurus¡¯s question. He soon added, ¡°I guess the heavens wanted me to be here and help you?¡±

    ¡°The heavens, huh,¡± Aurus focused on these two words, recalling how a goddess had given her a second chance in life, letting him live a life that was akin to the game he had yed in his past life. While recalling this, he could not help but inwardly think, ¡®Kurohana, did you have something to do with this encounter?¡¯

    After that, the two of them continued to banter about some mundane things in their past lives, like how the two of them liked to read web novels in the past, d that they were living a life that was like in the web novels they¡¯ve read, although with a bit more difficulty. Eventually, Bell went ahead and said, ¡°I guess our meeting ends here¡­¡±

    ¡°For now, that is.¡±

    ¡°Yeah, I¡¯ll find a way to head to your world once I get stronger,¡± Aurus said in response to Bell¡¯s words.

    ¡°Of course, I¡¯ll do the same as well,¡± Bell responded to Aurus¡¯s words not long after.

    ¡°I kind of wished that there was a way for us to talk to each other even though we¡¯re in different worlds though,¡± Aurus said as he let out a sigh.

    ¡°Indeed. It would allow all of us reincarnators to band together,¡± Bell said, voicing out his opinion in the matter.

    Ding! Ding!

    Just as the two of them were finished saying those words, a notification sound resounded from their minds, hastily prompting them to open up their notification screen. After reading through their notifications, the two of them looked at each other and muttered, ¡°Did our systems have a feature like this in the first ce?¡±

    ¡®A resonance between systems has been formed, enabling the Friend List feature in advance.¡¯

    ¡®Would you like to add the system holder in front of you as a friend?¡¯

 Chapter 189: Surpassing Fate (Long Chapter)

    Chapter 189: Surpassing Fate (Long Chapter)

    ¡°Friend List?¡± Aurus muttered in slight confusion as he read through the couple of notifications he had received from his system. He then manipted the notification screen that had appeared in front of his field of vision to an area of his vision that wouldn¡¯t obstruct him that much, focusing his sense of vision towards Bell before asking, ¡°Do you know anything about this, Bell?¡±

    ¡°To be honest, this is the first time I¡¯ve heard of this feature in my system,¡± Bell responded, having the same bewildered expression as Aurus. He then pondered over something for a while, a sh of inspiration surfacing in his mind not long after. With this inspiration in mind, Bell gathered Aurus¡¯s attention as he asked, ¡°Don¡¯t you think this Friend List feature might be simr to the friend lists that exist in those games back in our previous life?¡±

    ¡°Is it really?¡± Aurus replied to Bell¡¯s query with a hint of doubt, thinking that a friend list feature akin to the ones in the games back in their previous life would make them a force to be reckoned with. ¡°I used to y an MMORPG back in my previous life, and the friend list offered a lot of things. Trading items, chatting from any location, knowing the being¡¯s location, teleporting to their location, and so on.¡±

    He then added, ¡°Would our systems, considering our current levels of strength, allow us to have ess to those features?¡±

    Bell pondered over Aurus¡¯s words for a bit, sighing before replying, ¡°You¡¯re right. I assume you¡¯ve read web novels, right?¡±

    ¡°Mhm,¡± Aurus answered Bell¡¯s question before adding, ¡°What about it?¡±

    ¡°The systems in those novels, they would allow the main character to grow incredibly strong as an individual, allowing them to be invincible against equally leveled peers,¡± Bell responded to Aurus¡¯s question. He then added, ¡°If I didn¡¯t pass through the rift¡­if I didn¡¯t meet you¡­if we didn¡¯t ponder on ways to connect even though we¡¯re from other worlds¡­would this feature be unlocked?¡±

    ¡°True,¡± Aurus responded before letting out a sigh. He then pondered over the new feature a bit more before saying, ¡°I¡¯m pretty sure our systems are going to nerf this feature and return to its original form once we grow strong enough.¡±

    ¡°Want me to check if that¡¯s the case?¡± Aurus soon added, to which Bell replied, ¡°It would definitely be a good thing to know before I leave this world.¡±

    ¡°Alright then,¡± Aurus said after hearing Bell¡¯s reply. After a few seconds, he then asked the system inwardly, ¡°System, what features does this Friend List have?¡±

    Ding!

    It did not take long for Aurus¡¯s system to answer, a holographic screen appearing in front of his field of vision not long after. He read through it, making sure that he did not miss a single word on it.

    ¡®Due to the limitations of the systems of the two system holders, the system has decided to bestow the user a rudimentary version of the Friend List feature, allowing the user tomunicate with the befriended system holder at any ce and time. Once the user has attained the existence level of a Rank 9 Animate, more features of the Friend List shall be unlocked, allowing the user to rely more on the befriended system holders.¡¯

    ¡°Well, our problems ofmunication while being far away is solved,¡± Aurus said as he closed the holographic screen after making sure that he fully understood what the system said. He let out a light chuckle as he added, ¡°We only have a rudimentary form of the Friend List unlocked, but it allows us tomunicate whenever and wherever.¡±

    ¡°I see,¡± Bell replied before radiating an aura of slight tion. ¡°I guess we can unlock more features of the Friend List once we grow stronger?¡±

    ¡°Exactly,¡± Aurus chuckled before responding. He then said, ¡°And with that, let¡¯s add each other as friends.¡±

    ¡°You took the words right out of my proboscis,¡± Bell said before letting out a chuckle. They then went ahead andmanded their respective systems to add each other as friends.

    Ding! Ding!

    ¡®Bell (Aurus) is now a contact in your Friend List. You canmunicate with this being at any time and any ce.¡¯

    Seeing a new notification pop up in their notification screens that told them that they¡¯ve sessfully added each other as friends, both of them let out auras of intense happiness, only to be reced with an aura of slight sadness not long after.

    ¡°Haah¡­¡± Bell let out a sigh. ¡°Who knew that even though we¡¯ve only met for quite a while, it feels like we¡¯ve known each other for a long time?¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t say that,¡± Aurus replied, ¡°You¡¯re gonna make me cry. Then again, we¡¯ll still meet each other in the future. Once we grow stronger.¡±

    ¡°Once we grow stronger,¡± Bell agreed with Aurus¡¯s words.

    Buzz¡­

    After saying that, Bell went ahead and intensified his pping, increasing his altitude in a matter of an instant as he shouted to Aurus, ¡°I¡¯ve enjoyed killing that wolf with you! May we meet again in the future!¡±

    ¡°May we meet in the future, indeed!¡± Aurus shouted in response, to which Bell hastily flew towards the direction of the rift in response, sending a non-verbal message to Aurus in the process.

    Noticing the non-verbal message sent by him, Aurus went silent for a few seconds before letting out a chuckle.

    ¡°A fight once we meet again?¡±

    ¡°Sure, I¡¯m all in for that.¡±

    ¡­

    Whoosh!

    After getting to know more about the system, as well as parting ways with Bell, Aurus went ahead and teleported back to the main hall of the new Verdant Blossom Branch Alliance, appearing in the center.

    ¡°Er¡­¡± At the instant Aurus had appeared in the center of the main hall, his aura had attracted the attention of everyone in the main hall, prompting them to focus their sense of vision towards Aurus. While this was happening, Aurus could not help but feel a sense of pressure¡­which was nullified by a being that radiated an aura more intense than his.

    ??Aurus is back!¡± This being shouted with glee before adding, ¡°Let us give our thanks to the War Commander!¡±

    ¡°Thanks to the War Commander!¡± Not long after the being said that, everyone in the main hall said what the being wanted them to say, making Aurus feel a bit weird. Although he cherished the feeling of being someone in a high position, the feeling of being called out like that by multiple beings made him feel weird.

    Letting out an awkward chuckle as he told everyone to continue what they were doing, Aurus soon started to hover, making his way towards the being that told everyone to shout those words a while ago. This being was a being that radiated an aura that far exceeded the aura radiated by Herellia or Aurus, its appearance akin to a glowing mass of energy.

    This being was none other than Horell, the Supreme Guardian of the new Verdant Blossom Branch Alliance. At the very instant Aurus had arrived in front of Horell, Horell went ahead and asked him, ¡°Herellia told me that you settled some things with the Animate you brought in the final minutes of the war. How did it go?¡±

    ¡°Everything went well. Thanks for asking, Horell¡­¡± Aurus replied to Horell¡¯s query in a formal tone, which was hastily reced with a slightly annoyed tone as he added, ¡°Is what I would say if I didn¡¯t know you that well. You didn¡¯t have to do that once I arrived, you know.¡±

    Horellughed at Aurus¡¯s response, saying, ¡°If only you knew how much Herellia was praising your contributions a while ago. To be honest, Herellia could be a bard with the level of praise she had given to your contributions.¡±

    Hearing the word ¡®bard¡¯ being mentioned by Horell, Aurus could not help but ask, ¡°Where¡¯d you learn the word ¡®bard¡¯?¡±

    ¡°Ah, that.¡± Horell tried to recall where he had learned that word, replying not long after with, ¡°Remember the town you and Herellia went to to obtain a Comprehension Leaf?¡±

    ¡°Although you weren¡¯t in the alliance at that time, yeah,¡± Aurus replied with slight confusion. He then added, ¡°What about it?¡±

    ¡°We used to rummage through their libraries back then, trying to grasp more knowledge of the Animate society before ascending to the Animate existence level, or in my case, the Pseudo-Animate existence level,¡± Horell replied to Aurus¡¯s query not long after, quelling Aurus¡¯s curiosity.

    ¡°Anyways, speaking of Herellia, where is she?¡± After his curiosity had been piqued, Aurus went back to the topic of Herellia praising her, wondering where she was at the moment.

    ¡°She¡¯s currently at the Alliance Hall,¡± Horell responded to Aurus¡¯s question before adding, ¡°She¡¯s currently giving Harriott and Cermalia the official positions of Alliance Elders. Unlike you, who had naturally obtained the position after the alliance had undergone an upgrade, for us, we have to undergo an initiation to officiate our positions. For me, it¡¯s my second time though.¡±

    ¡°Should I go there?¡± Aurus muttered to himself in ponderation as he remembered the soul balls he had deployed around the magic circle that the formerly alive Chungus used to control. He soon recalled these soul balls, manipting them to return to him, looking through the perspectives of the soul balls to pass the time.

    While looking through it, Aurus noticed that an element on the area outside the alliance base had disappeared while he was talking with Bell. After recalling all of the soul balls, Aurus went ahead and asked Horell about this missing element, saying, ¡°Horell, do you know what happened to Chonk¡¯s corpse?¡±

    ¡°Indeed, I do,¡± Horell radiated an aura of slight tion as he replied to Aurus¡¯s question. He then added, ¡°I¡¯d suggest you ask Herellia about this.¡±

    ¡°With that being said¡­¡± He then went ahead and teleported to the corridor that led to the alliance¡¯s small ecosystem. Horell then went ahead and sent a strand of energy, sensing that the soul connection he and Aurus had was removed. On it was the question, ¡°Would you like to go to where she is?¡±

    Whoosh!

    Without hesitation, Aurus teleported beside Horell, sending a strand of energy back at him, saying, ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡±

    ¡­

    Swoosh!

    It did not take long for the two to arrive at the Alliance Hall in the alliance¡¯s small ecosystem, with Horell relying on his existence level to travel a great distance in one teleportation while Aurus relied on his Ruler skills to bridge the gap in existence level.

    At the instant they had appeared at the entrance of the Alliance Hall, Horell looked at Aurus in wonder and said, ¡°To think that you can teleport as far as me while still being an S-grade Inanimate¡­¡±

    ¡°When are you going to go and evolve to X-grade?¡± Horell soon asked him, to which Aurus replied with an awkward chuckle as he said, ¡°I¡¯ll evolve once things settle down.¡±

    After responding, the two of them went ahead and entered the Alliance Hall, seeing two rays of light hit Harriott and Cermalia at the center of the hall. It was only when the rays of light had disappeared did Herellia, Harriott, and Cermalia notice the two enter the hall, with Herellia, ¡°Ah, Horell and Aurus. d to see you two here.¡±

    ¡°Hello there, Supreme Guardian and Vice Leader,¡± Harriott said to the two of them, radiating an aura of respect.

    ¡°Is it fine to call the two of you by your names?¡± Cermalia asked the two of them in a yful tone, with Harriott berating Cermalia soon after, saying, ¡°They¡¯re at a higher position than us! Do you think we can say their names just like tha¡ª¡±

    ¡°Yeah, that¡¯s fine with me,¡± Aurus replied to Cermalia¡¯s query before adding, ¡°It would allow us to get closer anyway.¡±

    ¡°What Aurus said,¡± Horell said after Aurus was finished talking. They then made their way beside Herellia, with Horell on Herellia¡¯s right, and Aurus on Herellia¡¯s left.

    ¡°So, what brings you two here?¡± Herellia asked the two of them, to which Horell made a pointing finger out of energy in response, pointing it towards Aurus as he responded, ¡°Aurus here was wondering about Chonk¡¯s corpse. Could you tell him about it?¡±

    ¡°Oh, that?¡± Herellia said with slight indifference. Recalling her ns for the corpse, she then focused her vision towards Aurus before saying, ¡°Just before I say it, let me tell you that this n is only known by those with a high position in the alliance. In other words, don¡¯t spread it to the members of the alliance, alright?¡±

    ¡°Of course,¡± Aurus responded. ¡°I¡¯m not that stupid.¡±

    ¡°Well¡­¡± Herellia listened to Aurus¡¯s response before saying, ¡°The n is very simple. Using my Sanguine Arts, Harriott¡¯s special magic skills, and Cermalia¡¯s great mastery over illusions, we¡¯re nning to ¡®revive¡¯ Chonk and transform him into the greatest trump card of the alliance.¡±

    ¡°A controble being capable of dishing out Animate level attacks.¡±

    Aurus could not help but imagine a future war where the enemies would undoubtedly be wiped out by a single attack from Chonk. With this in mind, he could not help but shudder as he muttered, ¡°I don¡¯t really condone ying with corpses, but if it allows the alliance to fight back against stronger enemies, then I don¡¯t mind.¡±

    Ding!

    Just as he was about to continue talking with Herellia and the others, Aurus obtained a notification from the system, confusing him quite a lot as this notification was truly out of the blue. Splitting a part of his soul to go and check the notification he had received, manipting the notification screen that had been on the far side of his field of vision all this time to the center, he read through the new notifications he had gotten. In an instant, he had be silent on the outside.

    On the inside though, he was screaming out of intense bewilderment, shouting inwardly, ¡®So that¡¯s why I haven¡¯t gotten anything from Chonk at the instant he was killed!¡¯

    ¡®It¡¯s because the rewards from an Animate for an Inanimate is toorge to handle!¡¯

    Very excited to go ahead and check the rewards he had obtained, Aurus sent a thread of energy to Herellia while the five of them were conversing, saying, ¡°Herellia, I¡¯m going to go to the Tower of Seclusion.¡±

    ¡°Eh? Why?¡± Slightly bewildered at the abrupt message from Aurus, she sent back a message to him using a strand of energy. In response, Aurus sent back a strand of his own, saying, ¡°I¡¯ll have to keep it a secret from you for now. All I can say is that it¡¯s very urgent.¡±

    ¡°I¡­see. Well, I hope it¡¯s not serious.¡± Herellia pondered over Aurus¡¯s words for a bit and let out a sigh inwardly. She then sent a strand of energy with these words on it. Not long after, she obtained a response from Aurus to a strand of energy that said, ¡°It¡¯s not. This urgent matter will surely help out the alliance.¡±

    After saying those words to Herellia through a strand of energy, Aurus went ahead and interrupted the conversation the five of them were having, abruptly saying, ¡°I apologize but I need to leave right now. I have an urgent matter I need to do.¡±

    Whoosh!

    And just like that, without letting Horell and the others reply to Aurus¡¯s words, Aurus had disappeared from their sight, hastily making his way towards the Tower of Seclusion. As for Herellia, she could not help but be inwardly disappointed, muttering, ¡°It wouldn¡¯t hurt to open up to me, you know.¡±

    ¡­

    Whoosh!

    Since Aurus was rushing to head towards the Tower of Seclusion, it only took a minute for Aurus to enter a secluded room inside the tower, hastily pulling up the notification screen once more as he wanted to make sure that the notifications he had obtained a while ago weren¡¯t false. After looking over them multiple times, he muttered in excitement, ¡°Contributing a lot in the war was definitely worth it.¡±

    Ding!

    ¡®Due to the final boss of the war being two existence levels higher than the user, the time needed to calcte rewards had been greatly extended. The system apologizes to the user for the inconvenience.¡¯

    ¡®The user¡¯s side has sessfully won in [The War of Tempest Cliff]!¡¯

    ¡®The user has obtained 500,000 XP.¡¯

    ¡®The passive skill [Will of the Victorious] has been obtained.¡¯

    ¡®The user has the most contribution in [The War of Tempest Cliff], killing off most of the enemies on the opposing side, as well as dealing the most damage to the final boss of the war.¡¯

    ¡®Due to the final boss of the war being an Animate, most of the rewards are only avable once the user reaches the level of Rank 1 Animate in any of the user¡¯s bodies.¡¯

    ¡®Due to the user killing off multiple enemies alone, the passive skill [One against All] has been obtained.¡¯

    ¡®Due to the user killing off multiple enemies alone, the user has obtained 5,000,000 XP.¡¯

    ¡®Due to the user killing off multiple enemies alone, the user has obtained 500 Genesis Points.¡¯

    ¡®Due to the user dealing the most damage to the final boss, the hybrid skill [Surpassing Fate] has been obtained.¡¯

    ¡®Due to the user dealing the most damage to the final boss, the hybrid skill [Power Surpassing Boundaries] has been obtained.¡¯

    ¡®Due to the user dealing the most damage to the final boss, the user has obtained 500,000,000 XP.¡¯

    ¡®Due to the user dealing the most damage to the final boss, the user has obtained 5000 Genesis Points.¡¯

    ¡®Due to the user dealing the most damage to the final boss, the user has obtained 100 OS Points.¡¯

    ¡°I haven¡¯t misread,¡± Aurus said, speechless at the number of rewards he had obtained from the war. ¡°Over 500 million experience points, 5000 Genesis Points, 100 OS Points, as well as multiple passive skills that would most likely boost my high stats even higher¡­¡±

    ¡°This was definitely worth it,¡± Aurus screamed in excitement as hemanded the system to bring up the information regarding the first two passive skills he had obtained. After reading through it, he could not help but suck in a breath of cold air through his body, muttering, ¡°I just remembered that passive skills are evolvable. These are just at the C-grade Mortal level¡­how high of a boost would they give at the Transcendent level?¡±

    Ding!

    ________

    [Will of the Victorious] (Level 1/3)

    Grade: Mortal (C)

    Bestowed upon those that are blessed with victory, the energy amassed from the side of the victors envelops your body, bolstering your prowess to unimaginable heights.

    > All stats +30%

    > Damage dealt +30%

    ________

    ________

    [One against All] (Level 1/3)

    Grade: Mortal (C)

    Only those with the willpower to fight against hundreds or even thousands of enemies shall obtain the merit to have this skill, allowing them to stand on the same level as legendary and mythological figures.

    > All stats +50%

    > When facing against multiple enemies, damage dealt +30%

    ________

    ¡°And then, we have thesest two skills¡­¡± After reading through the description of the two skills and bing satisfied with it, he then went ahead andmanded the system to show the descriptions of thest two skills, feeling intense nervousness and excitement. These two skills hade from him dealing the most damage to Chonk, so it meant that both skills had something to do with Chonk, right?

    Ding! Ding!

    With the text on the two holographic screens from before with new ones, Aurus went ahead and read the information written on them¡­only to be left at a greater level of speechless. Eventually, he was able to mutter, ¡°This¡­what grade am I again?¡±

    ________

    [Surpassing Fate] (Level 1/40)

    Grade: Mortal (X)

    It is said that everyone is shackled under the chains of fate, letting everyone have fixed destinies. There are rare times that one goes ahead and breaks through the chains of fate, doing something that goes against the norm, surpassing the scope of fate itself. Those that have surpassed fate are beings with incredibly great power amongst their peers, to the point that it wouldn¡¯t be impossible for them to fight toe-to-toe with beings of a higher level.

    > All stats +100%

    > Gain ess to the active skill [Lesser Fate Maniption]

    ________

    ________

    [Power Surpassing Boundaries] (Level 1/40)

    Grade: Mortal (X)

    Some say that levels of strength are made to have a smooth progression in power. Of course, some break those norms, exhibiting strength that is far greater than their current level. Only those with such power can create legends and change the world they live in.

    > All stats +100%

    > Gain ess to the active skill [Pseudo-Animate Ascension]

    ________

    After reading through thest two skills, he took note of the two active skills the two skills gave him ess to, making a mental note to check their descriptionster. As he closed the holographic screens in front of him, he let out a satisfied sigh, muttering, ¡°I guess this will allow me to have a better foundation before evolving to X-grade.¡±

    ¡°I wonder what kind of evolution choices I¡¯ll have by then,¡± Aurus continued to mutter as he then focused on the other things he had obtained from the war.

    ¡°For the experience points, I have a great use for them before I evolve,¡± Aurus pondered over them as he started to think out loud. ¡°As for the Genesis Points, I¡¯ll focus more on the Genesis Tree. Of course, I have to enhance my Soul Enchantment System as well, seeing as the soul balls have helped me out a lot. A stronger soul would definitely be beneficial.¡±

    ¡°As for the OS Points¡­¡± Just as Aurus had reached this point, he went ahead andmanded the system to open up the Existence Evolution OS interface. Not long after, a holographic screen appeared in front of him. After reading through it, he let out a light chuckle as he said, ¡°There¡¯s no other thing I can do other than to upgrade it, right?¡±

    ¡®The Existence Evolution OS has reached its limits. Would you like to upgrade the system¡¯s OS for 100 OS Points?¡¯

    Without hesitation, Aurus went ahead and confirmed the choice to use the 100 OS Points to upgrade his system¡¯s OS. He expected that the upgrade in the system¡¯s OS would allow him to grow stronger in many ways, and that would be true¡­for the most part.

    Ding!

    In an instant, the holographic screen in front of him had undergone a drastic change, with the screen bing a bit more corporeal as a feminine-sounding voice resounded in his mind, saying, ¡°Thank you for upgrading the Existence Evolution System. The Existence Evolution System shall now be called the Transcending Existence System.¡±

    The feminine-sounding voice continued to talk, all of it being improvements that the system upgrade had done.

    ¡°Due to the user not using the Artificial Intelligence Module, the system has decided to discard the module, improving the other modules instead.¡±

    ¡°The number of points needed to enhance the Soul Enchantment System and the Genesis Tree System has been reduced. The user can now manually select skills and abilities obtained from these systems.¡±

    ¡°The maximum potential for allies summoned through the Ally System has been increased from SSS grade to Omega grade. All existing allies summoned by the user shall have their potentials and abilities enhanced by a grade.¡±

    ¡°The user can now hide the system from other beings that have a system as well.¡±

    ¡°The user can also transform the system into a fairy that flies around the user¡¯s body, acting as the user¡¯s personal assistant.¡±

    Listening to the announcements made by the feminine-sounding voice, he felt that upgrading his system right now was the best choice he had made¡­until he heard the next few announcements.

    ¡°Due to the maniption of an external entity, the skill [Illusion Nullification] of the C-grade Transcendent level has been instantly enhanced to [Undeceiving Sight] of the C-grade Divine level.¡±

    ¡°Due to the maniption of an external entity, the skill [Undeceiving Sight] has fused with [Unified Soul Control], forming the hybrid skill [Penultimate Veridical Spirit].¡±

    ¡°With the [Penultimate Veridical Spirit], all falsehood shall be negated in front of the user.¡±

    ¡°Due to the [Penultimate Veridical Spirit], the truth of the [Spirit Clone] skill has been revealed, its name being [Spirit Imbuement].¡±

    ¡°Due to the [Penultimate Veridical Spirit], the truth of the clone ¡®Argentum¡¯ has been revealed, reverting all of the progress it has made at the Animate existence level.¡¯

    ¡°Due to the [Penultimate Veridical Spirit], the truth of the clone ¡®Argentum¡¯ has been revealed, its true existence level being at Normal-grade Pseudo-Animate.¡±

    ¡­

    ¡­

    ¡°What¡­?¡±

    ¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¨C

    Hello there, Truedawn here. You have just seen the end of Volume 3: Intertwining Fates. I¡¯m pretty sure most of you are shocked at the fact that his clone wasn¡¯t actually a clone. Not only that, to think that it¡¯s also a Pseudo-Animate rather than Animate, quite unbelievable, right?

    It shall be exined in the next volume, Volume 4: Inevitable Destiny. In this volume, many things shall be revealed about Aurus¡¯s clone, Kevin, as well as Kurohana and Erea¡­probably. I hope you continue reading IRAAS because it¡¯s going to be more fun from here on out.

 Chapter 190: Unraveling the Truth

    Chapter 190: Unraveling the Truth

    ¡°Due to the maniption of an external entity, the skill [Illusion Nullification] of the C-grade Transcendent level has been instantly enhanced to [Undeceiving Sight] of the C-grade Divine level.¡±

    ¡°Due to the maniption of an external entity, the skill [Undeceiving Sight] has fused with [Unified Soul Control], forming the hybrid skill [Penultimate Veridical Spirit].¡±

    ¡°With the [Penultimate Veridical Spirit], all falsehood shall be negated in front of the user.¡±

    ¡°Due to the [Penultimate Veridical Spirit], the truth of the [Spirit Clone] skill has been revealed, its name being [Spirit Imbuement].¡±

    ¡°Due to the [Penultimate Veridical Spirit], the truth of the clone ¡®Argentum¡¯ has been revealed, reverting all of the progress it has made at the Animate existence level.¡¯

    ¡°Due to the [Penultimate Veridical Spirit], the truth of the clone ¡®Argentum¡¯ has been revealed, its true existence level being at Normal-grade Pseudo-Animate.¡±

    ¡°What¡­?¡± Hearing what the feminine-sounding voice was saying, Aurus was in utter disbelief. ¡°What do you mean by that¡­?¡±

    Even though Aurus asked the system what it was saying, the system continued to list down the changes brought by the upgrade of the system¡¯s OS in an indifferent manner.

    ¡°Due to the [Penultimate Veridical Spirit], the truth of the clone ¡®Argentum¡¯ has been revealed, its true species being Wind Elemental.¡±

    ¡°Due to the [Penultimate Veridical Spirit], all clone-rted skills have been adapted to the user¡¯s Pseudo-Animate body.¡±

    ¡°Due to the [Penultimate Veridical Spirit], all illusions cast on the user has been removed.¡±

    ¡°¡­¡± Aurus was at a loss for words, a feeling inside him gradually bubbling up as he continued to listen to the feminine-sounding voice of the system. Eventually, the feeling had reached its peak, bursting out of Aurus as he shouted, ¡°System, what the fuck do you mean by this?! My clone isn¡¯t a real clone?¡±

    Surprisingly, this time, the system responded to Aurus¡¯s question, the same feminine-sounding voice resounding within his mind as it replied, ¡°Indeed, User. Due to some illusions cast by an entity, the system has been fooled into thinking that the user¡¯s clone is of the Animate existence level. Not only that, but it also seems that those who havee across the clone have been fooled into thinking this as well.¡±

    ¡°Fooled into thinking?¡± Aurus could not help but ask, knowing that the skill was given to him by Kevin as he had predicted that Aurus was going to be in danger in the future. He then continued, ¡°I used up over 5000 FP to cast the [Spirit Clone] skill, and you¡¯re telling me that my clone isn¡¯t¡­an¡­Animate¡­¡±

    ¡°Wait a second.¡± After Aurus thought about the premise of the [Spirit Clone] skill Kevin gave him, the more he thought that it was odd. A single stat point of an Animate is equivalent to 100,000 of an Inanimate¡¯s, which meant that the cost for creating the clone would be incredibly high right?

    With this in mind, he muttered, ¡°Now that I think about it¡­it does seem odd. Only using over 5000 FP to craft a clone at the Animate existence level, even though the difference power between the two existence levels is akin to night and day¡­system, could you bring up the description for [Spirit Clone]¡­no, wait¡­[Spirit Imbuement]?¡±

    ¡°As you wish, User,¡± the system soon eded to Aurus¡¯s request, a slightly corporeal screen appearing in front of his field of vision not long after. Due to the upgrade the system had undergone, a soft voice was reading the words written on the screen while Aurus was skimming through it.

    Ding!

    ________

    [Spirit Imbuement] (Level 1/2)

    Grade: Transcendent (S)

    A skill crafted by those well-versed in the art of manipting spirits and bodies as a way to rece the normal creation of clones. This skill is mostly used by those with weak constitutions, possessing a body that has great strength to bnce the weakness they had while their original body continues to exist. This skill allows the user to possess any body with a soul as long as the user has enough energy to do so, as well as sacrifices that would increase the speed of assimtion.

    Maximum number of clones: 1

    Maximum existence level that could be possessed: Pseudo-Animate

    FP Cost: Depends on the strength of the body that is being possessed

    ________

    ¡°I see now¡­¡± Aurus muttered after reading through the description of the skill, letting out a sigh of disappointment not long after. A few secondster, he started to lightly chuckle, which then turned into raucousughter. Fortunately, he was inside the Tower of Seclusion, which was rarely upied by the members of the alliance, allowing him to continue raucouslyughing without a care for the world.

    If one listened closely to hisugh, there was a hint of a mocking tone in hisugh. A mocking tone that seemed to be directed at himself. Eventually, Aurus stoppedughing as he muttered, ¡°How foolish am I to believe that I could get an Animate body with just 5000 FP. Sure, I do want to experience the feeling the Transcending Comprehension Leaf had given me, but never did I expect that Kevin has shrouded this ¡®clone¡¯ of mine in a web of lies.¡±

    At this point, Aurus felt some hatred towards Kevin, who he used to think was someone who truly looked out for him. To think that his clone¡¯s existence level was false all along, he could not help but wonder what would happen if Kevin suddenly dispelled this illusion in an important fight, removing all of the strength his clone used to have.

    He then let out a sigh once more, feeling slightly more grateful that he had upgraded the system¡¯s OS. If he had not done so, he truly may have fallen into danger in the eventual future with what Kevin did. Nheless, he felt slightly mncholic at the fact that his clone had reverted to a level where it was not weird to say that his original body was stronger than his clone.

    Fortunately, he hastily removed this pessimistic mindset, thinking about the reverting of the clone¡¯s existence level from an optimistic manner as he said, ¡°With the clone at the Pseudo-Animate level, I can amass more strength than before. There¡¯s a single level of difference between the Pseudo-Animate and the Animate existence level, but that alone would allow me to possibly make me invincible at the Animate level.¡±

    ¡°Speaking of which, can I even evolve to the Animate level?¡± Aurus could not help but wonder, remembering very well that those that evolved to the Pseudo-Animate level as an Inanimate did not have any way to evolve to the Animate level, deciding to reach the peak level a Pseudo-Animate could reach.

    With this in mind, Aurus could not help but let out a sigh as he continued to rummage through his memories. ¡°Well then. By the looks of it, I¡¯m stuck at the Pseudo-Animate level until I reach the Divinity existence level. Then again, undergoing Power Baptisms is far easier than undergoing Existence Tribtions and Principle Formation¡­¡±

    Just as he was about to give up, a memory that exactly answered Aurus¡¯s query surfaced in his mind, his mood taking a 180-degree turn as he was filled with hope for the Pseudo-Animate clone. ¡°It seems the heavens doesn¡¯t close all paths of progress. With this method, I can create a body that¡¯s far superior to a normal Rank 0 Animate.¡±

    ¡°A Super Animate.¡±

    ¡°I guess this was just a lucky coincidence,¡± Aurus said as he recalled who told him this method of allowing a Pseudo-Animate being to ascend to the Animate existence level. ¡°The Goddess of Ruination, a Power Rank of 7¡­the legend of a Pseudo-Animate being defying all odds and bing an incredibly rare Super Animate¡­¡±

    As he remembered this, he could not help but wonder as he muttered, ¡°I wonder where Erea is at right now. She¡¯s probably trying to reach a higher level of Divinity right now for sure.¡±

    Just as he was about to go ahead and teleport to where his new Pseudo-Animate clone was, it seemed that the system was not finished listing the improvements the upgrade to the system¡¯s OS brought, the system¡¯s voice resounding in his mind after mulling over all of that.

    ¡°The clone-rted skills the user had obtained from creating the clone had been transformed into a variant that suits the current Pseudo-Animate body the user, leaning more towards possession of a body rather than a true clone.¡±

    ¡°[Sense Sharing] has been adapted to [Experience Sharing], a skill that allows the user to share rewards to the two bodies of the user.¡±

    ¡°[Automated Clone Control] has been adapted to [Parallel Body Control], a skill that allows the user to control the second body while being in the original body.¡±

    ¡°[Clone Possession] and [Clone Hibernation] have been discarded as the system does not see a use for these skills. The system rmends that the user uses the Pseudo-Animate body as often as possible.¡±

    ¡°[Mental Communication] and [Spirit Resonance] have been deemed by the system as skills that would suit the user and the second body very well.¡±

    ¡°Ah?¡± Listening to what the system was saying, Aurus was at a loss for words for a bit as he tried to process what the system was telling him. Eventually, he was finished processing the new information, radiating an aura of excitement as he went ahead and tried to use one of the newly adapted skills in his arsenal.

    ¡°[Parallel Body Control].¡±

    Whoosh!

    Looking through the perspective of his other body, he noticed that his second body was moving ording to these thoughts, making Aurus feel very ted as he did not have to worry about one of his two bodies being defenseless when he controlled the other one. After moving his second body around the trees near the alliance base for a few minutes, he moved the body to the side of the alliance base before removing his control over it.

    ¡°I should go and check its stats before showing it to Herellia and Horell,¡± Aurus muttered as this thought came across his mind. The reason why Aurus hid his clone from Herellia back then was due to the fact of the difference in existence level. He was quite sure that Herellia would find it unbelievable that an Animate was an Inanimate¡¯s clone.

    ¡°Hmm¡­I¡¯ll just say something along the lines that this clone of mine had undergone an Existence Tribtion before me,¡± Aurus pondered over how he was going to exin it to Herellia and Horell, deciding that this would be a reason that they would not find any fault with.

    Now, what are Existence Tribtions? Existence Tribtions are trials that every being has to go through to ascend to a higher existence level. This was a feature added in ISE that made it incredibly hard for Inanimates to ascend to the existence level of an Animate. Fortunately, it was eventually made easier in the future due to the abundance of Transcendents and Gods.

    And so, just as he was about to go and teleport to where his Pseudo-Animate body was once again, the system decided to block his way from getting closer to the Pseudo-Animate, listing one more improvement as a voice resounded in his mind yet again.

    ¡°Is this system purposely trying to block me from seeing the Pseudo-Animate or something¡ª¡± While muttering this question to himself, Aurus attentively listened to what seemed to be thest statement the system was going to say, his interest piqued by the statement in an instant.

    ¡°Due to the system being upgraded, the highest possible existence level the user can now attain is the peak of the Transcendent level.

    ¡°A few changes have been made to the progression of the user as an Animate as well, removing the need for umting experience and levels in skills and stats. The system has adapted this progression of strength to better suit the user¡¯s needs, with the Tempering and Ascension skills being the main ways of increasing strength, while skills the user shall obtain at the Animate existence level having mastery levels.¡±

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡± Aurus pondered over thest statements of the system for quite some time, thinking out loud not long after as he muttered, ¡°So¡­back when the system was called the Existence Evolution System, the maximum existence level I could attain was the peak of the Animate level? Does that mean I have to upgrade the system one more time to reach Divinity?¡±

    ¡°Well¡­I¡¯m still far away from being a Transcendent so I shouldn¡¯t think about this,¡± Aurus added. Not long after, he radiated an aura of slight tion as he continued to mutter, ¡°Then again, I¡¯m pretty close to the Animate existence level. The fact that I¡¯m not limited by experience points and levels from increasing my stats¡­is very nice.¡±

    ¡°Imagine a Rank 0 Animate¡­having the prowess of a Rank 3 Animate,¡± Aurus said as he chuckled. ¡°I¡¯d probably be considered a legendary hero by then!¡±

    ¡°Anyways, it seems the system is finished listing the improvements.¡±

    ¡°Time to check on the Pseudo-Animate.¡±

    ¡­

    XXXX Continent, Seraph Kingdom, inside arge manor.

    An old man in a long-sleeved white robe was sitting near arge bay window, a cup of tea letting out steam on top of a small table beside him.

    ¡°Ah, Mercuria Tea. Truly the finest tea from the Valerion Continent,¡± the old man muttered with slight glee as he grabbed the cup of tea before blowing onto it. After blowing onto it a few times, he went ahead and sip a bit of the tea, letting the taste cover every nook and cranny in his mouth before saying, ¡°Truly the finest tea.¡±

    Whoosh!

    ¡°Hm?¡± Just as the old man was about to take another sip of the tea, the old man felt that arge burden had been taken off in his mind, instantly feeling that something had gone wrong. He then went ahead and ced the cup of tea on the saucer it was on a while ago, slowly raising his hands towards the light shining from therge bay window as he gradually gestured with his hands.

    This old man was none other than Kevin, the sage who had ¡®helped¡¯ Aurus out.

    It took a few seconds for Kevin to finally finish gesturing with his mind, a frown creeping upon his face as he muttered, ¡°It seems I have been found out.¡±

    Not long after, Kevin went ahead and let out a sigh of slight disappointment. Surprisingly, a few secondster, the frown on his face was reced with a smirk, taking a look at the far ends of the sky as he let out a light chuckle.

    ¡°Is this what it feels like to be found out by a Greater God?¡± Kevin could not help but mutter with slight interest.

    ¡°One of the divine craftsmen, Kurohana, finding out what I was doing not long after I nted that small seed. I wonder if this is your way of hindering our ns from progressing.¡± As he said this, Kevin chuckled once more as he pondered over something.

    Eventually, he said with a soft sigh, ¡°Alright then. I won¡¯t meddle in your matters anymore, Kurohana. His fate is still something you can¡¯t fathom anyway, not with thew you reign over, that is.¡±

    After saying that, he took in a deep breath as he rxed, grabbing the cup of tea once more before taking a sip yet again.

    ¡°Ahh. Good tea.¡±

 Chapter 191: A Foolproof Plan

    Chapter 191: A Foolproof n

    Whoosh!

    Due to Aurus¡¯s Pseudo-Animate body being positioned near the side of the alliance base, it only took Aurus less than a minute to make his way to where it was. At the instant he had arrived in front of his Pseudo-Animate body, he was left at a loss for words, unable to convey what he was seeing in front of him at the moment.

    ¡°Hoh¡­¡± After a few seconds, this was the only sound Aurus could make after seeing his Pseudo-Animate body. The appearance it took on was in the shape of a human. But what separated it from other humans was that rather than the whole body being made up of cells, what made up this body was in fact, pure energy.

    This pure energy was akin to what made up Horell¡¯s current body as a Mana Spirit, but since Aurus¡¯s Pseudo-Animate body was a Wind Elemental, the hue of this energy was a light green. Other than that, there was also theck of facial features on where its face was supposed to be.

    It did not take long for Aurus to ept the fact that this is what his clone looked like, letting out a light chuckle as he noticed the cover he made for his private parts when the clone in front of him was still an Animate was still around the Pseudo-Animate¡¯s waist. Noticing this, he jokingly asked himself, ¡°Surely, since this clone of mine is made up of energy, it wouldn¡¯t imitate that part as well, right?¡±

    And so, with that question in mind, Aurus went ahead and used [Parallel Body Control] to move the Pseudo-Animate¡¯s arms, grasping on the leaf cover tightly before pulling it downward. At the exact moment Aurus saw the leaf cover move downward, his sense of vision instantly focused towards a protruding rod of energy right where a certain part would normally be for a male Animate, turning speechless once more.

    Although he was quite proud that this part was still the same after his clone turned into a Pseudo-Animate, he could not help but let out a slightly disappointed sigh before saying, ¡°Why did it have to imitate that part instead of facial features? I¡¯d rather have facial features for now before that part, to be honest.¡±

    Either way, since it seemed that there was nothing he could do about it, Aurus decided to ept this fact as well, pulling the leaf cover up to cover the Pseudo-Animate¡¯s rod. After that, he went ahead and checked if he couldmunicate with his clone like a second person like before, asking, ¡°Can you hear me?¡±

    Surprisingly, after hearing Aurus¡¯s question, a rough shape of a mouth appeared on where the Pseudo-Animate¡¯s face was supposed to be, replying to Aurus with, ¡°Mhm, I can. Since I¡¯m you, and you¡¯re me, and we both have the system, we can talk with each other anywhere, anytime.¡±

    ¡°Well, I¡¯m d to hear that it¡¯s still the same,¡± Aurus replied to his clone¡¯s words. He then pondered over something for a short while, focusing his sense of vision on the clone in front of him once more as he asked it, ¡°Is your name still Argentum?¡±

    ¡°Hmm¡­let me check,¡± the clone replied, muttering a fewmands to the system as a status screen appeared in front of it. Of course, Aurus could see this status screen as well due to him sharing perspectives with the clone, but after looking at the clone¡¯s name through it, hemanded the system to stop sharing their perspectives.

    After closing the status screen in front of it, the clone replied to Aurus¡¯s words with a tone of certainty, saying, ¡°Just checked. I¡¯m still named Argentum. Well, if you think about it, why wouldn¡¯t I be?¡±

    ¡°True,¡± Aurus replied to Argentum¡¯s words, pondering over something yet again. A few secondster, he asked Argentum, ¡°Did you notice that I disabled the perspective sharing?¡±

    ¡°Yeah,¡± Argentum replied before adding, ¡°To be honest, it¡¯s quite nauseating to have two perspectives at the same time.¡±

    ¡°Indeed,¡± Aurus voiced out his opinion. Not long after, he asked Argentum once more, saying, ¡°Anyways, mind if I check your status screen?¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re the original body. Why wouldn¡¯t I let you?¡± Argentum replied to Aurus¡¯s question with a slight chuckle, with Aurusmanding the system to identify Argentum not long after. While Aurus wasmanding the system, Argentum let out a low sigh before saying, ¡°Anyways, don¡¯t set your expectations too high. I still have a decent amount of skills, but my stats are pretty shit now.¡±

    ¡°How shitty can it be?¡± Aurus replied optimistically. It did not take long for the system to respond to hismand, a slightly corporeal screen appearing in front of his field of vision thatid out Argentum¡¯s stats in front of him. After taking a short nce through it, he could not help but look at Argentum before sighing. He then went ahead and said, ¡°It seems you were right. I apologize for only using around 5000 FP to make you back then.¡±

    Ding!

    ________

    [Argentum] (Level 1/10)

    Experience: 0/100

    Species: Wind Elemental

    Existence Level: Pseudo-Animate

    Grade: Normal

    Power Baptism: None

    ¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª

    [HP]: 1/1

    [MP]: 5/5

    ¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª

    Stats:

    Vitality ¨C 1

    Strength ¨C 1

    Defense ¨C 1

    Agility ¨C 1

    Intelligence ¨C 1

    ________

    ¡°Every stat is at the lowest possible number.¡± As Aurus muttered this, he pondered as to why this was the case, getting to the conclusion that Argentum¡¯s stats was rted to the amount of FP he had used. And since a single stat point for a Pseudo-Animate was a thousand points for an Inanimate, it made sense that Argentum would only have a total stat amount of 5.

    ¡°I seriously apologize for only using over 5000 FP to make you back then,¡± Aurus apologized once more, to which Argentum let out a light chuckle in response. This chuckle could not help but make Aurus confused, wondering what was so funny. Eventually, Argentum stoppedughing, satiating Aurus¡¯s curiosity as he replied, ¡°Since we share memories, I see what you¡¯re nning to do with me. To be honest, I agree that it¡¯s the best choice as well. Imagine your clone bing a Super Animate, wouldn¡¯t that be cool?¡±

    He then added, ¡°Although you¡¯re optimistic about that n, it seems you aren¡¯t optimistic enough. Think about this way. With my stats being at the lowest possible number, that means I have a greater room for improvement, right?¡±

    ¡°Well, that is true,¡± Aurus slowly replied to Argentum¡¯s words, rummaging through his old memories as he continued to say, ¡°I also started at the lowest possible stats, only getting to where I am right now with the current species I have, plus the skills I have¡­¡±

    As he was continuing to talk, Aurus realized that he was looking at Argentum from a wrong angle at the start. Realizing this, Aurus let out a chuckle with a hint of mockery, this mocking tone pointed at himself as he said to Argentum, ¡°I¡¯ve been too engrossed in what I currently have for too long that I didn¡¯t even realize the insane amount of potential a nk te like you would have.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m not a true nk te though,¡± Argentum replied with a hint of happiness as he continued, ¡°I¡¯m a Wind Elemental. From the name of my species alone, I¡¯m inclined towards the Wind element.¡±

    ¡°So what about it?¡± Aurus responded to Argentum¡¯s words as he added, ¡°You could just master the other elemental affinities and everything would be fine once you evolve, right?¡±

    ¡°Wouldn¡¯t that make the Power Baptisms harder though?¡± Argentum asked him, rummaging through their shared memories of Power Baptisms.

    Power Baptisms in ISE were akin to the Existence Tribtions, but only to a certain extent. Unlike Existence Tribtions, Pseudo-Animates could undergo Power Baptisms, with the difficulty of a Power Baptism being rted to the amount of power a Pseudo-Animate has. Of course, the higher the power when undergoing a Power Baptism, the greater the increment in terms of power a Pseudo-Animate would obtain.

    ¡°Why worry about those things, Argentum?¡± Aurus replied to Argentum¡¯s question before adding, ¡°And I thought you were the one who was more optimistic than me.¡±

    ¡°If you¡¯re going to be a Super Animate, you should be the strongest Super Animate possible,¡± Aurus continued talking before saying, ¡°You¡¯re armed with the knowledge of ISE from the Inanimate existence level to the Divinity existence level. You know a lot of inheritances, dungeons, and certain ces where you could amass tons of experience and skills that would boost your power even further. In front of all of that, a Power Baptism is merely a speck of sand!¡±

    Listening to Aurus¡¯s words, Argentum let out a sigh, the aura radiating from him being that of slight disappointment, which was directed towards himself. After a few seconds, this aura soon changed to that of slight tion as he said, ¡°You know what? You¡¯re right. I have ess to all of those memories, so I¡¯ll utilize them to the fullest!¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s the clone I know!¡± Aurus replied with a chuckle before pondering over something. At the instant he had pondered over this, the aura radiating from Aurus had abruptly changed to that of slight worry. Noticing this, Argentum asked, ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡±

    ¡°I just remembered that I was nning to introduce you to Herellia and Horell,¡± Aurus answered Argentum¡¯s query with a tone of slight disappointment. He then added, ¡°With your current stats, I don¡¯t know how I could tell them how you did all of those things.¡±

    ¡°I see¡­¡± Argentum said after listening to Aurus, pondering over the possible ways he could help his original body out. Fortunately, it did not take long for Argentum toe up with a solution, telling Aurus, ¡°I think I have an idea of what you can do.¡±

    ¡°Hmm?¡± Hearing Argentum¡¯s words, Aurus¡¯s interest was piqued, prompting him to ask Argentum, ¡°What do you have in mind?¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t know if the system allows this but¡­can¡¯t you like transfer your unused experience points to me?¡± Argentum suggested.

    Aurus then replied, ¡°How would that help me with this proble¡ªoh.¡±

    Realizing what Argentum was trying to convey, Aurus eded to Argentum¡¯s request,manding the system not long after, ¡°System, transfer all of my unused experience points to Argentum.¡±

    Ding!

    ¡®508,732,464 experience points have been transferred to the user¡¯s second body, Argentum.¡¯

    ¡®Due to the difference in existence level, the number of experience points have been divided by 1,000 as a Pseudo-Animate is a thousand times stronger than an Inanimate.¡¯

    ¡®508,732 experience points have been sessfully transferred to the user¡¯s second body, Argentum.¡¯

    ¡°Well then.¡± Receiving a notification from the system that the experience points were sessfully transferred to him, albeit at a lower value, Argentum could not help but say this as he expected the experience points to be transferred in full. He then looked at Aurus and said, ¡°It seems that there¡¯s a conversion rate, just like our stats.¡±

    ¡°Indeed,¡± Aurus replied as he pondered over what things would be affected by the conversion rate. ¡°Stats are surely affected by the conversion rate, and by the looks of it, experience points are affected by the conversion rate as well.¡±

    ¡°Would Genesis and OS Points be affected by this as well?¡± Aurus wondered, eventually concluding that it might not be the case.

    ¡°Speaking of Genesis and OS Points¡­¡± With this in mind, Aurus looked at Argentum and asked, ¡°Do you have ess to the Soul Enchantment and Genesis Tree System?¡±

    ¡°Let me see¡­¡± Hearing this, Argentum went ahead andmanded the system in his mind to open up these features, only to get a reply that only the original body has ess to it. He also tested if he had ess to the Ally and Friend List system, letting out a sigh of relief that he had ess to it.

    ¡°Soul Enchantment and Genesis Tree seems to be exclusive systems just for you, original body,¡± Argentum replied before adding, ¡°I do have ess to the Ally and Friend List system though.¡±

    ¡°Good to know,¡± Aurus replied to Argentum¡¯s findings before adding, ¡°Anyways, are you going to use the experience points now?¡±

    ¡°Yeah,¡± Argentum replied to Aurus¡¯s words with affirmation, softlymanding the system, ¡°System, use all of the unused experience points to max out my level.¡±

    Ding!

    It did not take long for the system to act upon Argentum¡¯s request as a great mass of Wind energy particles started to appear around Argentum¡¯s surroundings, hastily congregating to where he was as the aura he radiated gradually grew stronger and stronger. Alongside this was the feminine-sounding voice of the system resounding in his mind, saying, ¡°4,500 unused experience points have been consumed.¡±

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    Not long after, a small tornado surrounded Argentum, as if all of the Wind energy particles were funneling their way towards his body. Eventually, after about half a minute or so, this tornado had disappeared, revealing Argentum with an aura that was multiple times stronger than his previous aura.

    ¡°Congrattions! You have leveled up to Level 10.¡± After the tornado had disappeared, the system¡¯s voice resounding throughout his mind once again. It then asked him, ¡°You have reached the maximum level and have met all of the necessary requirements needed to evolve to a higher grade. Would you like to evolve?¡±

    Argentum pondered over this question for a bit before ultimately replying in his mind with, ¡°Postpone the evolution for now.¡±

    ¡°As you wish, User.¡± After the system had said this, the system¡¯s voice had disappeared in his mind, prompting him to look at Aurus, who was looking at him with an aura of happiness.

    ¡°Your strength has increased considerably,¡± Aurus said.

    ¡°But¡­¡± Not long after, the aura around Aurus had changed into that of slight disappointment as he radiated his aura to the fullest extent, letting Argentum know the difference between his current strength and the original body¡¯s strength.

    ¡°It is still not enough.¡±

    ¡°Baby steps, Aurus. Baby steps.¡± In response to Aurus¡¯s words, Argentum let out a chuckle as he replied. He then added, ¡°This is just the first step of my idea. I¡¯m just about to move onto the second step.¡±

    ¡°Hoh?¡± Aurus¡¯s interest was piqued yet again by his clone, prompting him to ask Argentum, ¡°What¡¯s the second step?¡±

    ¡°Hehehe.¡± Argentum lightlyughed as a certain thought crossed his mind. ¡°It¡¯s very simple but very effective.¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t keep me in suspense, Argentum,¡± Aurus said before adding, ¡°Just tell me.¡±

    ¡°Alright then,¡± Argentum replied, taking in a deep breath of air as two small holes appeared on where his nose was supposed to be.

    ¡°The second step of this idea is to¡­¡±

    ¡°To¡­?¡±

    ¡°Not introduce me to Herellia and Horell for now.¡±

    ¡°¡­¡±

    ¡°What do you think?¡±

    ¡°¡­¡±

    ¡°Well?¡±

    ¡°Well¡­that does make sense.¡±

 Chapter 192: Shortcuts and Solutions

    Chapter 192: Shortcuts and Solutions

    ¡°Don¡¯t introduce me to Herellia and Horell for now. That¡¯s the second step,¡± Argentum said to Aurus without hesitation while radiating an aura of slight happiness.

    ¡°¡­¡± After hearing this, Aurus was left at a loss for words. He was at a loss for words since for him, it was an incredibly stupid idea. As for Argentum, he interpreted Aurus¡¯s silence as Aurus thinking that he, Argentum, was an incredible genius.

    Of course, after the silence between the two hadsted for a minute, Argentum felt that something was off. Nevertheless, he continued to think that Aurus was probably praising him in his mind, asking Aurus, ¡°Well? What do you think?¡±

    ¡°¡­¡± In response, Aurus radiated an aura of indifference as he continued to maintain silence. It was at this moment that Argentum realized that Aurus was not thinking of him as a genius. Realizing this, he could not help but ponder about it himself, thinking, ¡®By not introducing me to Herellia and Horell, it would save him the task of needing to make up a reason as to why I¡¯m weak, right?¡¯

    ¡®That would be the most logical thing to do, right?¡¯

    ¡®Right?¡¯

    ¡°Well¡­that does make sense.¡± Eventually, Aurus muttered out a few words to Argentum, words that were rted to the idea Argentum had thrown at him a while ago. He pondered over Argentum¡¯s idea while maintaining silent, thinking of ways on how to make the idea even better. To him, it was just a stopgap solution. Of course, he could go ahead and hide Argentum from Herellia and Horell to the ends of time, but to him, that would sour the friendship they had.

    ¡°I¡¯ve already indirectly mentioned you as a trump card to Herellia, so I can only dy my introduction. If I don¡¯t introduce you to her and Horell, that would make me look like I¡¯m still on guard against the alliance,¡± Aurus muttered a few secondster as he let out a low sigh, looking at Argentum, who was radiating an aura of glee.

    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Aurus. You just have to dy my introduction for around two weeks,¡± Argentum replied, with Aurus radiating an aura of affirmation as he thought that two weeks wasn¡¯t too long of a time. Nheless, he could not help but be curious as to whyArgentum decided to dy the introduction for a fixed amount of time. He soon asked Argentum about this, to which Argentum let out a light chuckle, which gave him the air that he had a well-connected n in mind, as he replied.

    ¡°The reason why I set it at two weeks is that I have full confidence that I can enhance my power to a level greater than yours within that time,¡± Argentum said with an aura of optimism about him. He then continued, ¡°It has something to do with the third step of my idea?¡±

    Hearing the words ¡®third step¡¯, Aurus could not help but ask Argentum, ¡°How many steps are there in your idea?¡±

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡± Argentum pondered over Aurus¡¯s question for a bit, cing his glowing index finger and thumb under his glowing chin. After a few seconds, he shrugged his shoulders as he replied, ¡°So far, four. I¡¯m pretty sure I¡¯ll add more steps as time passes though.¡±

    Listening to Argentum¡¯s words, Aurus could not help but let out a sigh before saying, ¡°Even though I¡¯m you and you¡¯re me, it¡¯s like we¡¯re two different entities. Does it have something to do with us splitting our soul in two?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m not sure, but you do give off the aura that you¡¯re always thinking too deep into things,¡± Argentum replied. ¡°Perhaps, that may be the case.¡±

    Not long after, he asked Aurus, ¡°Does it have something to do with you upgrading the system¡¯s OS? Back then, you weren¡¯t like this.¡±

    ¡°It might be,¡± Aurus replied as he pondered over it,ing up with a possible conclusion a few secondster as he added, ¡°It might have something to do with [Parallel Body Control]. Back then, I could only control one body at a time.¡±

    ¡°Probably,¡± Argentum replied as he scratched his head. After a few seconds of silence between the two of them, Aurus then asked him, ¡°Oh yeah. What¡¯s the third step of your idea?¡±

    In response, Argentum shed a glowing grin as he responded, ¡°Well, I¡¯ll follow your footsteps, original body. It¡¯s just that I¡¯m doing at a higher difficulty.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m going to go and clear a dungeon.¡±

    ¡°A dungeon, you say?!¡± Aurus replied with shock as he heard Argentum¡¯s words. In his memories, although dungeons in ISE would provide yers with a ton of experience points and skills, and sometimes even equipment, all dungeons are made for Animates!

    ¡°You do know how hard a dungeon is, right?¡± Aurus asked Argentum before continuing, ¡°The easiest dungeons can only be cleared by Rank 0 Animates at the very least! At your current state, you don¡¯t even have a tenth of a Rank 0 Animate¡¯s power!¡±

    ¡°Of course I know,¡± Argentum replied before adding, ¡°You¡¯re just misinterpreting what I said.¡±

    ¡°Huh?¡± Hearing this, Aurus radiated an aura of confusion. Of course, after listening to Argentum¡¯s next words, Aurus realized that he was probably overreacting.

    ¡°I¡¯m not going to clear a dungeon made for Animates. I¡¯m going to clear a ¡®dungeon¡¯ perfect for Pseudo-Animates.¡±

    ¡°By ¡®dungeon¡¯, you mean¡­?¡± Although Aurus had an idea as to what Argentum was hinting, he asked to make sure. Fortunately, they were thinking the same thing as Argentum grinned, ¡°Indeed. I¡¯m going to go loot some skills from Animate towns.¡±

    ¡°I almost forgot about that¡­¡± Aurus let out a sigh of relief. Since he was a long-time yer of ISE, he knew that there were two types of dungeons. The first one was the one he remembered vividly, the dungeons made for Animates, filled to the brim with monsters, yet hold immense rewards at the end. As for the second one, since he had not gone through the Pseudo-Animate route and only heard of it through other yers, he was less familiar with it.

    The more correct term for the second dungeon was town looting, which was fondly called by Pseudo-Animate yers as dungeon looting. Although they weren¡¯t up against monsters like the Animates, they were instead up against the surveince of Animates. Animates always sought Pseudo-Animates, mostly due to them being rare materials that could be sold for a high price, or materials that could be transformed into legendary weapons.

    Of course, since they weren¡¯t killing any beings while looting towns, they did not gain any experience, unlike the Animates. But in exchange, the number of skills and loot they would obtain from a single looting session was enough to make Animate yers green with envy.

    ¡°Which town are you nning to loot, then?¡± Aurus asked as hemanded the system to bring up a map, slightly surprised that the map that had unfurled in front of him was more detailed than before. As for Argentum, he opened up the map as well,manding the system to highlight the nearest towns within a certain radius not long after. After a couple of minutes, Argentum let out a grin as he pointed towards a certain town quite some distance from the alliance base.

    ¡°This is the town I¡¯m going to go loot,¡± Argentum said while pointing. He then muttered, ¡°Verdant Breeze Town, a town situated beside the Greater Tempest Cliff. I¡¯ll have to cross the Inferno ins and the Azure Shores to get to it. With my current speed, it would probably take me close to less than a week to get there.¡±

    Hearing Argentum¡¯s words, Aurusmanded the system to highlight the towns on his map as well, easily finding the Verdant Breeze Town Argentum was talking about. While looking at it, he could not help but notice that there were a few towns near the Tempest Cliff, but he chose the farthest one from it. With this in mind, he asked him, ¡°Why¡¯d you choose such a faraway town?¡±

    In response to this, Argentum scratched his head as he replied, ¡°Well¡­think of it as Step 3.1.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m going to go get the elemental affinities for Fire and Water along the way. That¡¯s why I chose it.¡±

    ¡°I see¡­¡± Aurus said with slight reluctance, thinking that it would be better if Argentum was closer to where he was so he could teleport to him at any time. In the end though, he let out a sigh and stopped thinking about it, remembering that he wanted Argentum to be the strongest Super Animate possible.

    ¡°Good luck on your travels, then,¡± Aurus said a few secondster. Just as he said this, a thought shed in his mind, prompting him to ask, ¡°Oh, right. Could I check the skills you have right now before you head to Verdant Breeze Town?¡±

    ¡°Sure, go ahead.¡± Just like before, Argentum did not mind Aurus¡¯s request, with Aurusmanding the system to identify Argentum one more time.

    Ding!

    It did not take long for the system to respond, a small screen listing Argentum¡¯s skills in front of Aurus a few secondster. After looking through the skills Argentum had, he could not help but ask him, ¡°Are you really sure these skills you have right now are enough?¡±

    ¡°Go big or go home,¡± Argentum replied.

    ________

    Active Skills:

    [Lesser Wind Magic Lv. 1]

    Passive Skills:

    [Lesser Wind Affinity Lv. 1], [Lesser Mana Affinity Lv. 1], [Clouded Mana Core Lv. 1], [Boundless Potential Lv. 1], [Spirit Resonance Lv. MAX]

    ________

    ¡°Are you really sure you want to go to Verdant Breeze Town?¡± After looking through Argentum¡¯s current skills, Aurus could not help but think twice about his decision. ¡°Although [Boundless Potential] does look like a skill that would help you out, you still cannot hide the fact that your affinities and level of mastery over magic is weak. Can¡¯t you postpone your departure to a time where your skills are at a decently higher level?¡±

    ¡°Or¡­I could just grind my skills along the way while I make my way to Verdant Breeze Town,¡± Argentum refuted Aurus¡¯s words as he added, ¡°You absorbed the Transcending Comprehension Leaf.¡±

    At this point, Aurus was awakened to the fact that Argentum had thought about his idea multiple times in his head, the goal of which was to be as strong as possible, as fast as possible. Realizing this, Aurus muttered to himself, ¡°How could I be so fickle-minded¡­¡±

    After that, he let out a long sigh before an aura of support and tion radiated from Aurus as he said, ¡°Alright then. It seems you¡¯ve thought about this quite a lot. I should learn a thing or two from my clone from time to time.¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t be so harsh on yourself,¡± Argentum replied with a light chuckle. ¡°I wouldn¡¯t be here if it wasn¡¯t for your choices.¡±

    ¡°True,¡± Aurus replied before chuckling as well. Not long after, he then said, ¡°But still, I can¡¯t help but worry that something bad might happen to you. As a Pseudo-Animate, you¡¯re more prone to being caught by Animates and turn you into some piece of equipment.¡±

    It was then¡­that a certain skill Aurus had came to mind.

    ¡°Unless¡­¡± With this in mind, Aurus¡¯s worries were washed away, reced with a feeling of confidence and excitement for what Argentum would aplish. ¡°Argentum, I have no clue if this would work on you or not, but it¡¯s still worth a shot.¡±

    ¡°Hmm?¡± Hearing Aurus¡¯s words, Argentum could not help but be confused. Of course, it did not take long for Argentum to get what Aurus was saying, with Aurus muttering the name of a skill not long after.

    ¡°[Wisdom Transfer].¡±

    Whoosh!

    It did not take long for a screen to appear in front of Aurus¡¯s field of vision, listing down all of the skills he had. To be honest, he was quite shocked after looking at the screen because, unlike Fenrir and Charisa, even more skills could be passed onto Argentum than he thought, even though he was a Pseudo-Animate!

    Just as Argentum was about to ask what skills Aurus was going to transfer to him, Aurus went ahead andmanded the system, ¡°Transfer all of the skills that could be transferred to Argentum.¡±

    Ding!

    Not long after, Aurus obtained a notification from the system as the system¡¯s voice resounded in his mind, saying, ¡°All transferable skills shall be transferred to Argentum. Due to the difference in existence level, the transferred skills shall have their efficacies and grades diminished.¡±

    ¡®That¡¯s the least of my worries,¡¯ Aurus thought to himself as heughed inwardly. As long as Argentum had more skills at the start of his journey, it was akin to giving him a headstart in bing someone strong! But surprisingly, another notification resounded in his mind, shocking him as he muttered, ¡°Eh?¡±

    ¡°Thanks to the grades of the transferred skills, the penalty has been nullified,¡± the system said.

    ¡°All transferable skills have been sessfully transferred and adapted to Argentum¡¯s body.¡±

    Ding! Ding! Ding!

    While Argentum was still in shock as to what Aurus had said, he was snapped back to reality by the multiple notifications he had received quite some timeter. Although he knew that these notifications were rted to the skills Aurus had transferred to him, he did not know how much it was, prompting him to check how much skills he had obtained.

    Whoosh!

    ¡°[Infinite Primordial Morph] has been transferred to the user. Due to the limitation of the skill of the user that transferred the skill and the body of the current user, it has been adapted to [Hundred Facade Polymorph].¡±

    ¡°[Heavenly Spiritas Revival] has been transferred to the user. Due to the limitation of the skill of the user that transferred the skill and the body of the current user, it has been adapted to [Grand Breeze Rejuvenation].¡±

    ¡°¡­¡±

    ¡°¡­¡±

    ¡°[Grace of the Divine Tempest] has been transferred to the user. Due to the limitation of the skill of the user that transferred the skill and the body of the current user, it has been adapted to [Blessing of the Great Wind].¡±

    A total of six skills had been transferred to Argentum, with most of them taking care of the areas that Argentum wascking. After reading through the notifications, Argentum went ahead and looked through all of the descriptions of the skills, making him look at Aurus with an aura of gratitude radiating from him.

    ¡®With these new skills, I could rest assured that I¡¯ll be able to clear a dungeon safely! I might even get more from it!¡¯ Argentum thought as he closed the screens regarding the skill descriptions not long after.

    Taking in a deep breath, Argentum looked at Aurus and said, ¡°I guess I¡¯ll be leaving then. See you in two weeks?¡±

    ¡°Yeah, see you in two weeks,¡± Aurus said as he radiated an aura of concern. Noticing this, Argentum let out a sigh inwardly as he turned around to head towards the direction where Verdant Breeze Town was.

    Whoosh!

    Just as he was about to start moving, he heard the faint sound of winding from his back, prompting him to turn his head around to see what made that around. Surprisingly, he looked back and noticed that Aurus was gone. He could not help but think that Aurus had finally gone back to the alliance base, making him let out a sigh of disappointment inwardly.

    But then¡­he heard a voiceing from beside him.

    ¡°You know what? Your idea has inspired me a bit before I go and evolve to X-grade.¡±

    ¡°How about I go on an adventure as well?¡±

 Chapter 193: Personal Assistant

    Chapter 193: Personal Assistant

    ¡°How about I go on an adventure as well?¡± Aurus said as he hovered beside Argentum, who was running at his maximum speed. Hearing Aurus¡¯s words, Argentum hastily concluded that his original body was going to join him on his adventure to Verdant Breeze Town, possibly obtaining the same elemental affinities on the way.

    With this in mind, Argentum asked Aurus with a slightly eager tone, ¡°Are you perhaps nning to join me on my journey to Verdant Breeze Town?¡±

    ¡°Eh?¡± Aurus heard Argentum¡¯s question, radiating a slightly confused aura, which he concealed not long after. He then pondered as to why Argentum would ask him such a question like that, realizing that the words he said gave off that sort of vibe. It did not take long for him to respond, ¡°You¡¯re mistaken, Argentum. I¡¯m going on a separate adventure from you. An adventure that would solidify my foundation even further before I be an X-grade Inanimate. Plus, if you think about it, you¡¯re at a higher existence level than me. Wouldn¡¯t I just get killed if I join you?¡±

    ¡°Lies. You¡¯re way stronger than me,¡± Argentum pouted as he responded before responding, ¡°You just don¡¯t want to see my face, right?¡±

    At this moment, Aurus let out a sigh as he wondered if the splitting of his soul gave Argentum the part of him that was stubborn. He thought up of a way to appease his clone¡¯s emotions, eventually saying, ¡°I¡¯ll apany you until we reach the boundary of Tempest Cliff. Does that sound good?¡±

    ¡°Yes, it does!¡± Argentum said in response to Aurus¡¯s query, letting Aurus let out an inward sigh of relief.

    Since the time taken by the two to travel from the alliance to the boundary of Tempest Cliff was limited by Argentum¡¯s maximum speed, which was not that low, mind you, it took them about thirty minutes or so to reach it, talking about some stuff along the way regarding their ns in the future, as well as possible ideas that could hastily increase their strengths.

    Unfortunately for Argentum, times of happiness were bound to end eventually, with the two of them at the boundary of Tempest Cliff. At the instant they had arrived, Aurus looked at Argentum and said, ¡°It seems we¡¯ve reached the boundary. Let us part ways here, Argentum.¡±

    ¡°Alright then,¡± Argentum let out a low sigh as he said reluctantly. He then waved his hands as he said to Aurus, ¡°See you in two weeks then.¡±

    ¡°See you in two weeks,¡± Aurus replied not long after. He then added, ¡°May youe back stronger than ever.¡±

    Hearing those words, a light smile crept upon Argentum¡¯s face before turning around to face the direction where Verdant Breeze Town was. A few secondster, a distance of about ten meters or so were made between Argentum and Aurus as Argentum had officially started his journey towards Verdant Breeze Town.

    ¡°As long as he doesn¡¯t have any dumb moments, if he¡¯s in danger, he¡¯ll remember tomunicate with me with [Mental Communication],¡± Aurus muttered to himself as an aura of excitement radiated from him. ¡°I guess Argentum¡¯s spirit of adventure has rubbed off onto me¡­though I¡¯ll just go to ces I¡¯ve been to before.¡±

    ¡°Speaking of which¡­I should let Herellia know where I currently am,¡± Aurus said not long after, realizing that he had only told Herellia that he was in the Tower of Seclusion a long while ago. In the off-chance that she needed him for something and went to the Tower of Seclusion to find him, only to find out that he was not there, Aurus had a feeling that she wouldn¡¯t hesitate to use all of the manpower in the alliance to scour the whole Tempest Cliff just to find him.

    With that in mind, he utilized the Alliance portion of his system to contact Herellia, surprisingly connecting with her not long after.

    ¡°What¡¯s up, Aurus?¡± At the instant the two had connected, Herellia was the first one to talk, asking why Aurus had connected with her.

    ¡°I just wanted to tell you that I¡¯m not in the Tower of Seclusion anymore,¡± Aurus replied to her query as he added, ¡°I¡¯m currently outside the alliance.¡±

    ¡°I see why you called me then,¡± Herellia responded to his words not long after. She then asked him, ¡°What are you doing outside then?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m going to go to that inheritance to grab a few more Comprehension Leaves,¡± Aurus answered herst statement, deciding to not hide it from her.

    A moment of silence ensued after Aurus¡¯s reply, taking a while for Herellia to respond with, ¡°I see. Good luck on obtaining more Comprehension Leaves then. Also, remember that the maximumprehension multiplier is 30 times the normalprehension speed.¡±

    ¡°Although I¡¯m quite curious as to how you know that, I have a feeling that it¡¯s because you absorbed a lot of Comprehension Leaves yourself,¡± Aurus replied before lightly chuckling. ¡°Anyways, thanks for the heads-up, I¡¯ll be on my way then.¡±

    ¡°Have a safe trip.¡± These were thest words Herellia uttered before the connection between the two of them had been cut.

    After cutting off the connection, Aurus pondered over his ns of solidifying his foundation after being inspired by Argentum, thinking out loud for a bit.

    ¡°Well, that solves the problem of the unlikely chance that Herellia would try to find me. I wouldn¡¯t be so unlucky for her to try and find me while I¡¯m inside the Tempest Cliff Inheritance, right?¡±

    The n he had in mind to solidify his foundation was incredibly simple. Nevertheless, this simplicity was extremely effective. It was onlyposed of four steps. The first step was for him to go to the Tempest Cliff Inheritance and learn all of the skills that he had not learned yet from the bookshelves in that room filled with skills.

    After that, he would go ahead and fuse all of the skills that are of the same category into a greater skill, which he considered as a substep rather than a step in his n.

    The next step after that would be him going to the inheritance where he had obtained his Ruler of the Void title, trying to get more Comprehension Leaves to increase hisprehension speed to the limit. It would not only help him out in the future, but it would also help Fenrir, Charisa, Argentum, and even the future Allies he would summon. While thinking about this second step, he remembered that he had be the owner of the Tempest Cliff Inheritance, obtaining a title that had significantly increased his stats.

    With this in mind, he decided to make bing the owner of the Comprehension Leaf inheritance an optional substep in his n. If he achieved it, good for him. If not, then there was not much of a problem.

    After maxing out hisprehension speed, the step after would be to enhance the other parts of his system as much as possible. The Soul Enchantment System, the Genesis Tree System, Fenrir, and Charisa, he would try to get them to the highest level possible with the current resources he had.

    ¡°Ah, right. I should ask Argentum to transfer back the unused experience points to me,¡± Aurus muttered as he thought deeper about the third step of his n. Not long after, he made a mental note of it.

    As for the final step, it was none other than to evolve to X-grade Inanimate. In actuality, he decided to make evolving to the X-grade the fifth step, but he could not help but be wary about the fourth step he added, which was to grab the other elemental affinities before evolving.

    ¡®If I add other elemental affinities haphazardly before evolving, wouldn¡¯t that result in a weaker evolution?¡¯ This was the thought Aurus had in mind while thinking about it, postponing the fourth step when he had be an X-grade Inanimate.

    And so, after going over the n in his mind, Aurus went ahead and disappeared from the boundary of Tempest Cliff, teleporting his way to the Tempest Cliff Inheritance with all of his movement buffs enabled.

    ¡­

    Whoosh!

    After about a few minutes or so, Aurus had appeared in the center of the Tempest Cliff Ruins once more, appearing on top of the magic circle that led both him and Herellia back then to the entrance of the inheritance. Utilizing the system, hemanded the inheritance to let him in, which the inheritance hastily did at the instant he was finishedmanding.

    Swoosh!

    At the instant he had arrived, he could not help but look at his surroundings with an aura of nostalgia radiating from his as he muttered, ¡°Looking at this jade green hall sure brings back good memories of struggle¡­no, wait. I didn¡¯t really struggle that much.¡±

    After saying this, he thenmanded the inheritance to open the path that led to the skill room, an ever-familiar corridor appearing on one of the sides of the jade green hall not long after. Of course, with Aurus being able to teleport, it only took Aurus one teleportation to arrive at the skill room, looking at the plethora of skill books that were in front of him.

    As he looked at the multiple bookshelves in front of him that were filled to the brim with skill books, he could not help but wonder if there was a way for him to learn all of these skills through a faster method other than learning them one by one. With this in mind, he asked the system about it as well, and surprisingly, he had received a reply.

    Ding!

    ¡°The user can utilize its expertise of manipting their soul to learn more skills at once,¡± the system¡¯s voice resounded in his mind, slightly surprised at the answer it had received. The question he had given to the system was normally something the previous version of the system wouldn¡¯t have answered, and yet, it had answered this problem without a problem. A few secondster, it then gave an answer that surprised him.

    ¡°Not only that, but the user can also opt to transform the system into a personal assistant, which would help out in learning skills as well.¡±

    ¡°A personal assistant can do that?¡± Aurus questioned himself, deciding in the end that there was no harm in trying. He then told the system, ¡°System, transform into a personal assistant.¡±

    ¡°As you wish, User,¡± the system¡¯s feminine-sounding voice resounded in his mind before being reced with a monotonous voice.

    ¡°The Transcending Existence System is now on Personal Assistance mode,¡± the monotonous voice resounded in his mind as a white ball of light manifested on the left shoulder of his glowing wooden sculpture body. It resounded in his mind once more as it asked him, ¡°What would you like to be called, User?¡±

    ¡°Eh? You can actually change how you¡¯re called?¡± Aurus could not help but mutter in slight shock, only for the monotonous voice to respond with, ¡°The user has opted to be called ¡®Eh? You can actually change how you¡¯re called?¡¯ Is this what you¡¯d like to be called?¡±

    ¡°No,¡± Aurus briefly replied, to which the monotonous voice followed not long after. He thought about it for a while, letting out a sigh of defeat at the end since all of the names that came to his end were bordering on the edge of the dark phase. If anyone other than him heard his system say that, he would surely be embarrassed to death. And so, in the end, he replied, ¡°Call me¡­Master.¡±

    ¡°The user has opted to be called ¡®Master¡¯. Is this what you¡¯d like to be called?¡± the monotonous voice replied to Aurus¡¯s words not long after, to which Aurus confirmed a few seconds after being asked.

    ¡°Would you like the personal assistant to take on the appearance of a male or a female?¡± the monotonous voice asked yet again, to which Aurus unhesitatingly chose thetter.

    ¡°To be more specific, what appearance would you like your personal assistant to have?¡± Hearing this question resound in his mind, Aurus was at a crossroads. In his previous life, he had multiple favorite tastes when it came to women. With that in mind, he then held a tournament in his mind of what the best female appearance would be when it came to a personal assistant, letting out a sigh in the end as he muttered, ¡°A kind older sister¡­that¡¯s extremely beautiful and is also wearing a maid dress.¡±

    Surprisingly, those specifications were more than enough for the monotonous voice to reply, ¡°The customization of the user¡¯s personal assistant has beenpleted. The system has decided to take inspiration from the user¡¯s past memories for some aspects. The user can opt to customize the personal assistant at any time.¡±

    After that statement, the white ball of light had undergone an abrupt change, taking on the appearance of a kind older sister with silky ck hair with a body that would make men fall in love at first sight, which isplemented with an exquisitely designed maid dress that entuated her figure quite nicely. Of course, this personal assistant had only mimicked the appearance of a human, being multiple times smaller than a regr human.

    ¡°Nice to meet you, Master!¡± At the very instant the maid started talking, a voice that would easily lull a person to sleep, as well as warm a person¡¯s heart, was heard by Aurus, making him feel grateful that he was reincarnated as a stick yet again. ¡°I currently don¡¯t have a name yet, so what would Master like to call me~?¡±

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡± To be honest, he was expecting for the system to name itself, but he did not mind it all, thinking that this was also a part of customizing the personal assistant, eventually replying with, ¡°Since your full name is the Transcending Existence System, I¡¯ll morph the first word into Theresa. How does Theresa sound?¡±

    ¡°Theresa¡­¡± the personal assistant pondered over the name Aurus gave it, only to be ted soon after as it said, ¡°I like it, Master~! Theresa shall be at your service~!¡±

    ¡®Heavens¡­Kurohana¡­thank you for giving me this gift,¡¯ Aurus shouted out loud in his mind, feeling that the grind he was going to do would be more fun with Theresa around.

    A few secondster, Theresa went ahead and asked him, ¡°What would you like me to do, Master?¡±

    ¡°Do you see the multiple bookshelves in front of me?¡± Aurus asked Theresa not long after, to which it replied, ¡°Yes, I do. What do I do with them?¡±

    ¡°Could you go ahead and number them? Oh, and also, could you separate the content of the three bookshelves into offensive, supportive, and defensive skills?¡± Aurus soon replied to its question, to which it replied, ¡°As you wish, Master~!¡±

    Whoosh!

    After it was given amand, Theresa went ahead and split itself into multiple smaller Theresa, slightly leaving Aurus at a loss for words, only for him to chuckle not long after as he said, ¡°It seems¡­this n of mine wouldn¡¯t be so boring after all.¡±

 Chapter 194: Perks of Experience Sharing

    Chapter 194: Perks of Experience Sharing

    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!

    With incredibly fast speed, the multiple Theresas went ahead and stopped in front of the bookshelves that were in the skill room, their eyes glowing a faint red after they made sure that they were in an optimal position in front of each bookshelf. Not long after that, a red light emanated from their eyes, covering all of the bookshelves in a faint red light as the skill room was temporarily dyed red.

    Fortunately, this did notst long, with the red light emanating from the eyes of the multiple Theresas dissipating around ten secondster as all of them flew up from their positions before merging into the Theresa hovering on Aurus¡¯s left shoulder a while ago. It then made its way towards Aurus¡¯s shoulder before respectfully bowing as it said, ¡°The Master¡¯s request has been fulfilled. Theresa has sessfully numbered the bookshelves in this room rtive to the position of Master, with the first few bookshelves the Master could see in front of him having low numbers while those in the back have high numbers.¡±

    ¡°Theresa has counted that there are exactly 25 bookshelves in this room, with the first 5 bookshelves all having skill books of the offensive category, the next 8 bookshelves all having skill books of the defensive category, and thest 12 bookshelves all having skill books of the supportive category,¡± Theresa continued with her exnation, to which Aurus responded, ¡°Good job, Theresa. You¡¯ve done well.¡±

    ¡°Thank you, Master!¡± Hearing Aurus¡¯s words of praise, Theresa smiled, radiating an aura that seemed to melt a person¡¯s heart once they looked at its smile. Of course, Aurus was affected by this as well, prompting him to thank the heavens once more in his mind. Nheless, he did not lose sight of his goal on this slightly impromptu trip of his, manifesting a soul vessel above his wooden sculpture head a few secondster.

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    He then went on to split the soul vessel into 64 partitions after realizing that partitioning the soul vessel into 16 did not put that much of a burden on him anymore. Of course, this was all due to the [Pentatasking] skill.

    Ding!

    ¡°Oh! Master, [Pentatasking] has reached the maximum level. Would you like to evolve it?¡± As a notification sound resounded in his mind, Theresa went ahead and told him about the notification, as well as his choices. Unsurprisingly, since he was aiming to make his foundations as strong and solid as possible, he unhesitatingly replied, ¡°Yes, evolve the skill.¡±

    Whoosh!

    Thankfully, just like before, the evolution of skills did not take long, with Theresa saying a few secondster, ¡°[Pentatasking] has been evolved to [Hexatasking], Master. By the looks of it, the Master can split the soul vessel even further after the evolution?¡±

    ¡°Well¡­the burden on my soul has significantly decreasedpared to before,¡± Aurus replied to Theresa¡¯s query as he added, ¡°But I think 64 soul balls is more than enough for what I need to do. I still need to allocate some of my soul¡¯s strength for unlikely situations.¡±

    ¡°Of course, I also have you to help me, Theresa,¡± Aurus continued before letting out a chuckle. In response to this, Theresa lightly chuckled as it replied, ¡°I am indeed here to help Master! And so, with that in mind, what are the Master¡¯s next orders?¡±

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡± Aurus pondered over the question for a bit, looking at the numerous skills in front of him, waiting to be learned and fused by him just so he could increase his strength and get a better evolution path. Just as he was thinking about something along the lines of what skills he should absorb first, a spark of inspiration shed in his mind, with the thought apanying it being along the lines of ¡®Is it really possible?¡¯

    ¡°Theresa,¡± Aurus said a few secondster after obtaining that spark of inspiration, to which Theresa replied with, ¡°Yes, Master?¡±

    ¡°Could you pull up the description of [Experience Sharing] for me?¡± Aurus asked, to which Theresa nodded with slight glee as it replied, ¡°As you wish, Master! Also, it seems that the Master is used to the previousmands. Theresa doesn¡¯t mind if you use the previousmands~!¡±

    ¡°Good to know,¡± Aurus said in response as a slightly corporeal screen appeared in front of his field of vision an instantter. After declining an offer from Theresa to read the words written on the screen in her voice, Aurus hastily skimmed through the description of the skill and let out a chuckle after multiple thoughts in his mind collided with one another.

    With the multiple thoughts fusing into oneplex thought, Aurus muttered with an aura of slight excitement, ¡°It seems that¡­even though I¡¯m far away from you, Argentum, you¡¯ll obtain an even better tform of improvementpared to when I started out. You better not waste the skills I¡¯m going to send you, okay?¡±

    Ding!

    ________

    [Experience Sharing] (Lv. MAX)

    Grade: Unevolvable

    A unique skill that has various requirements in order to be obtained. The mostmon feature of such a skill with this name is for two entities to share memories and experiences, allowing one to tutor the other through the usage of memories. Of course, there are also rare variants of this skill that offer even more than that, but the requirements are extremely stringent.

    Due to the user¡¯s first and second body containing the same soul, three variants of the skill have been unlocked for both bodies to use.

    > First variant: [Memory Sharing]. It allows the two bodies to share memories and experiences.

    > Second variant: [Sense Sharing]. It allows the two bodies to share the senses of their bodies with one another. It could range from the five basic senses to pain, with even the sharing of the sensation of pleasure not being impossible.

    > Third variant: [Reward Sharing]. An extremely rare variant of the skill that is only unlocked when the two bodies both have Perfect Systems. It allows the two bodies to share every reward one body would obtain with the other.

    ________

    ¡°[Sense Sharing] is something that was already unlocked ever since Argentum was still an Animate,¡± Aurus muttered as he realized that [Experience Sharing] epassed three branches. He then pondered as to why more variants were unlocked for him and Argentum to use, eventuallying to the usible conclusion that after the illusion on Argentum had been removed, the connection between the two had be closer.

    ¡°We both have the same memory, so I guess [Memory Sharing] is rted to sharing memories that have recently been obtained or something,¡± Aurus continued to think out loud before letting out a chuckle that radiated an aura along the lines of ¡®I¡¯m a genius¡¯. He then said, ¡°[Reward Sharing]¡­I wonder if the difference in the existence level would hamper this?¡±

    ¡°Well, there¡¯s no other way to know other than to try it out, right?¡± Aurusughed before he went ahead and controlled the 64 soul balls hovering over his head towards the multiple bookshelves, with the intent of learning all of the skills on the bookshelves.

    Alongside this, Aurusmanded Theresa, ¡°Theresa, enable [Reward Sharing]. After that¡­¡±

    ¡°Learn all of the skills on the bookshelves.¡±

    ¡°As you wish, Master,¡± Theresa respectfully replied as a faint connection had been established on Aurus¡¯s soul not long after, with the connection slightly tugging on his soul. After this, Theresa said, ¡°[Reward Sharing] has been enabled, Master. I shall now help out the Master¡¯s soul balls in learning all of the skills in this room.¡±

    Whoosh!

    Splitting up into multiple smaller Theresas once more, they went ahead and moved towards the bookshelves that Aurus¡¯s soul balls had not touched yet, hastily learning all of the skills on those bookshelves one by one.

    And so¡­

    Ding! Ding! Ding! Ding!

    A plethora of low-leveled skills were soon added onto Aurus¡¯s skill list.

    ¡°[Wind Evasion] has been obtained.¡±

    ¡°[Breeze Bomb] has been obtained.¡±

    ¡°[Iron Will] has been obtained.¡±

    ¡°[Soaring Gust] has been obtained.¡±

    ¡°¡­¡±

    ¡°¡­¡±

    With a monotonous voice resounding in his mind, rying to Aurus the skills he had obtained from the bookshelves, he was on full alert as he waited for a unique notification toe up.

    Ding!

    Eventually, after a few minutes or so, a notification that stood out from the others had soone, resounding in Aurus¡¯s mind as he listened to it with an aura of pride.

    ¡°Due to the [Reward Sharing] skill, the active skill [Wind Barrier] has been shared with Argentum. Unfortunately, due to the difference in existence level, the efficacy of the shared skill has been diminished on Argentum¡¯s side.¡±

    ¡°I guess I still can¡¯t ignore the fact that there¡¯s a difference in our existence level when sharing rewards,¡± Aurus lightlyughed as he looked at the soul balls and Theresas hastily learning all of the skills on the bookshelves with a gaze of slight awe. Back then, he knew for a fact that he wouldn¡¯t be able to learn all of the skills in a matter of a short time, that was why he dyed learning all of the skills in this room to a time when he could do so.

    And today, was that time.

    Ding! Ding! Ding!

    Amidst the low-level skills Aurus had learned, a few of them would be shared with Argentum, making Aurus feel slightly jealous. He wondered where he would be if he had someone helping him out as well behind the scenes, but then, he stopped thinking about this, radiating an aura of expectation instead as he muttered, ¡°With this boost, I wonder how strong of a Super Animate would Argentum be in the future?¡±

    ¡°Hello?¡± Just as he was about to endure the monotonous voice of the system¡¯s notifications resounding in his mind once more, a lively voice resounded in his mind, with him hastily recognizing who was behind this voice was. Aurus soon replied to this question with a light chuckle as he replied in his mind, ¡°Oh? If it isn¡¯t Argentum. Missed me after you just left the Tempest Cliff?¡±

    ¡°To be honest, I was grinding all of the skills on my list, including the ones you transferred to me before I left the Tempest Cliff,¡± Argentum¡¯s voice soon resounded in his mind, which was followed up with a sigh. Not long after, his voice continued, ¡°But¡­what¡¯s this [Reward Sharing] thing? And how are you sharing so many skills with me?¡±

    ¡°[Reward Sharing] is something I¡¯ve unlocked after you became my clone,¡± Aurus decided to exin it to Argentum as he added, ¡°You also have ess to this.¡±

    He then continued, ¡°As for the skills¡­do you remember the Tempest Cliff Inheritance?¡±

    ¡°Tempest Cliff Inheritance¡­¡± Argentum repeated Aurus¡¯sst words with his reply, which was followed up with his shocked voice, ¡°You mean¡­the skill room?¡±

    ¡°Bingo,¡± Aurus replied with a chuckle. He then added, ¡°Don¡¯t you think I¡¯m kind? Boosting your abilities and specialties even further before you reach Verdant Breeze Town?¡±

    ¡°Not gonna lie, I just think you¡¯re adding more burden onto me,¡± Argentum responded to his question before letting out a slightly exasperated sigh. Just as Aurus was going to give Argentum some motivation to grind all of those skills, Argentum¡¯sugh could be resounding in his mind, which was then followed up with, ¡°But¡­if Iined early on, I wouldn¡¯t be the strongest Super Animate in existence, right?¡±

    ¡°Keep those skillsing, Aurus. Once Ie back from this trip, I¡¯ll show you how much I¡¯ve improved!¡± Argentum said in a confident tone, to which Aurus let out a short chuckle before responding, ¡°I¡¯ll be an X-grade Inanimate by then, but sure! I¡¯ll be d to fight against my clone!¡±

    After that, the conversation between the two was finished, with Aurus not hearing Argentum¡¯s voice in his mind anymore, being reced with the monotonous voice of the system¡¯s notification once again.

    Fortunately, this situation onlysted for a short while before the notifications of the system were finisheding, prompting Aurus to get fired up as he manipted all of the soul balls he sent to fuse back with his body as the multiple Theresas fused as one before heading back to hover above his shoulder.

    ¡°Master, with the help of your soul balls, you have sessfully learned all 1255 skills from the 25 bookshelves in this room,¡± Theresa said after sitting on Aurus¡¯s wooden shoulder, to which Aurus could not help but be inwardly shocked at the number of skills he had learned. He could not help but ask himself, ¡°Did this skill room really have that many skills in the first ce?¡±

    ¡°Kevin¡­where did you get all of these skills from?¡± As he thought about the massive number of skills he had learned, he could not help but think about Kevin, the previous owner of the inheritance. Although he bore a grudge against him since the clone he had received with his help was not even the real one, he was still in awe at his abilities.

    ¡°Master, what would you like to do next with these skills?¡± After noticing that Aurus¡¯s mind was unupied, Theresa asked him this question, to which Aurus unhesitatingly responded, ¡°Fuse all of the skills that arepatible with one another. Make sure all of the skills are fused to its limits.¡±

    ¡°As you wish, Master,¡± Theresa respectfully replied to Aurus¡¯s words before letting out an awkward chuckle as it added, ¡°But¡­¡±

    ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡± Aurus asked Theresa.

    ¡°Er¡­Master, you don¡¯t have enough experience points to fuse all of these skills.¡±

    ¡°¡­Give me a second.¡± After a moment of silence, Aurus replied to its words as he connected with a certain being in his mind.

    ¡°Oi, Argentum.¡±

    ¡°Give me back the unused experience points.¡±

 Chapter 195: Returning to the Peak

    Chapter 195: Returning to the Peak

    Celestial ne, Divine Triad Pagoda.

    After being advised by the pagoda where the Immortal Verdict Wielders resided to wait for orders, Nix and Shirohana decided to follow its advice, heading back to the Hall of Greater Divinity at their maximum speed. Nheless, while they made their way towards the Hall of Greater Divinity, the two of them could not help but let out a sigh inwardly.

    ¡°Are you feeling the same feeling as me, Shirohana?¡± Nix looked at Shirohana, who was beside her and asked this question. In response to this, Shirohana let out a short sigh before answering with, ¡°If it¡¯s the feeling of helplessness, then yes. I feel the same thing.¡±

    ¡°Only a few dozen of us have survived the onught from the First Divine Demon War,¡± Nix let out a chuckle filled with mncholy as she spoke. She then added, ¡°To know the power of a Sin firsthand, who wouldn¡¯t feel helpless in front of it?¡±

    She then focused her vision on Shirohana¡¯s face before saying, ¡°And that???s why I hate the new generation of Lesser and Greater Gods who haven¡¯t been in the war, thinking that Sins are nothingpared to them.¡±

    ¡°Why hate them?¡± Shirohana replied to Nix¡¯s statement before adding, ¡°They¡¯re just lucky to be born in a time in the Celestial ne that wasn¡¯t filled with strife. That¡¯s all.¡±

    ¡°If they were born at the time when the First Divine Demon War was at its highest, which one of them wouldn¡¯t feel the same as us?¡± Shirohana continued, only to let out a sigh a few secondster. ¡°Then again, I still want to do something before the inevitablees. Something that would increase my chances of surviving.¡±

    ¡°What do you have in mind?¡± Nix asked her, slightly curious as to what Shirohana was thinking. Fortunately, Shirohana was not someone who kept everything to herself, eventually telling Nix what she was going to do as she waited for orders.

    The response Shirohana got from Nix was that of an expression ofplete shock, as well as a shout that went along the lines of, ¡°Are you insane?! You¡¯re going to try and be an Immortal Verdict Wielder?!¡±

    ¡°Well, by bing an Immortal Verdict Wielder, if the Sin we¡¯re up against is a Deified Sin, then it wouldn¡¯t be impossible for me to fight back,¡± Shirohana exined her thought process before adding, ¡°On the other hand, if it¡¯s a Primordial Sin, which I hope it isn¡¯t, then I would have a greater chance to escape.¡±

    ¡°You¡­¡± Nix muttered in slight disbelief, only to be silent as she felt the conviction that was gradually emanating from Shirohana. Noticing this, she let out a sigh that said something along the lines of ¡®I guess it can¡¯t be helped¡¯ before saying, ¡°I guess you¡¯re serious, huh. It¡¯s so like you to do such a thing.¡±

    ¡°Sorry for being a bit selfish, Nix,¡± Shirohana smiled in a slightly mncholic manner as she talked, to which Nix replied, ¡°Don¡¯t be. Every god is a little bit selfish on the inside.¡±

    After saying that, Nix let out a sigh once more beforeughing not long after, putting a slightly confused expression on Shirohana¡¯s face. Just as Shirohana was about to ask why she wasughing, Nix went ahead and said, ¡°Since you¡¯re aiming to be an Immortal Verdict Wielder as well, I guess I should strive further to be an Immortal Verdict Wielder. I won¡¯t lose to you, okay?¡±

    In response to this, Shirohana lightly smiled before chuckling as well.

    ¡°Of course. It wouldn¡¯t be like you to lose against me.¡±

    ¡­

    After taking about half a day to get back to the Hall of Greater Divinity, Shirohana and Nix soon parted ways, making a promise with one another that they would be Immortal Verdict Wielders before the Second Divine Demon War truly starts.

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    A few hours after that, Shirohana had arrived near the proximity of a certain ne owned by a god she knew very well. In actuality, this ne was more akin to a cube rather than a ne, with each side being the epitome of the color white. Indeed, this ne was none other than Kurohana¡¯s ne, the ne of Shirohana¡¯s original body.

    Whoosh!

    Thanks to Shirohana and Kurohana being the same person, Shirohana did not have any difficulty entering the white cube,nding beside Kurohana, who had her full concentration on the floating orb in front of her, a few minutester.

    Thud.

    Hearing a slightly loud noise resonating near her, Kurohana could not help but be ticked off as her head turned around to look at who or what made that sound, only for her anger to dissipate into thin air in an instant after realizing who had made the sound.

    ¡°Shirohana, you¡¯re back,¡± Kurohana said in a cheerful tone, standing up from her chair before going ahead and hugging her. Although Shirohana and Kurohana were two entities, they were ultimately the same person, which meant that the sensation of being hugged was passed onto Kurohana as well.

    After hugging her for a while, feeling refreshed after being hugged, Kurohana soon asked Shirohana as a serious expression appeared on her face, ¡°So¡­what did you find out?¡±

    In response to her question, Shirohana went ahead and knelt, with Kurohana scratching her head at this sight not long after. Eventually, she let out a sigh before muttering, ¡°Do you really want to make me do this? Even though there¡¯s no one around here, it¡¯s kind of embarrassing.¡±

    As she muttered these words, she then ced her right hand on top of Shirohana¡¯s head, her body glowing a faint gold not long after. She then channeled this faint gold light towards her right hand before closing her eyes.

    Swoosh!

    At the instant she had done that, an influx of information soon came into Kurohana¡¯s mind, with her mind hastily organizing, deciphering, and processing the information not long after. After standing in ce for a couple of minutes, she then opened her eyes, heading back to her chair to sit before saying to Shirohana, ¡°Good work. You¡¯ve more or less conveyed what I wanted to say to Nix after finding out that the Sin we¡¯re up against might be a Primordial Sin.¡±

    ¡°I should also thank you for sending me a memory regarding the Primordial Sin,¡± Kurohana said with a smile as she looked intently at the orb, the image of Aurus and hisrades winning the war in Tempest Cliff. She then looked back at Shirohana and asked, ¡°Speaking of which, are you really sure that we¡¯re up against a Primordial Sin?¡±

    In response, Shirohana stood up and sat on the armrest of the chair Kurohana was sitting on before replying, ¡°Well¡­Nix examined the Demon¡¯s Mark I got from those two Lesser Gods. Knowing Nix very well, there¡¯s a likely chance that we may truly be up against a Primordial Sin this time around.¡±

    ¡°You actually obtained a Demon¡¯s Mark?¡± Kurohana muttered in disbelief, rummaging through the information she had just received from Shirohana, only to find out that that was the case. ¡°Only Unified Sins and above can create those things, right?¡±

    ¡°Yeah.¡± Shirohana nodded in response before saying, ¡°I checked the Demon¡¯s Mark with the power you gave me, and it radiated power at the Deified Sin level. I guess our power wasn¡¯t enough to check the true level of the Sin on the Demon¡¯s Mark.¡±

    Hearing those wordsing from her divine clone, Kurohana could not help but wonder to herself, ¡®Have I gotten that rusty?¡¯

    With this in mind, Kurohana told Shirohana that she was going to take control over her body for a while, to which Shirohana unhesitatingly eded. And just like that, Kurohana was now controlling a greater part of her power, getting a better feel of her full power as she lightly stretched her body.

    After making sure that every part of her body was ready to start moving strenuously, she then went ahead and raised her left arm as a giant magic circle manifested on the tip of her left hand a few secondster. Next, she threw this magic circle with her full strength as multiple balls of white energy appeared around her body, making their way towards the thrown magic circle at the fastest speed possible.

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    These balls of white energy arranged themselves in a flower formation around the magic circle while the magic circle siphoned the energy from the balls, creating a whirlpool of various colors as the aura of multiple living beings gradually emanated from the circle. Ones???tens¡­hundreds¡­thousands¡­eventually, the aura of tens of thousands of living beings started to emanate from the circle, prompting Kurohana to dash towards the center of the magic circle, absorbing this aura for herself before channeling it towards her right fist.

    ¡°[Myriad Lives: Gxy Shattering Beam].¡±

    Bang!

    As she muttered the name of the move, she then punched out with her right fist at full force, manifesting a beam of energy that was equivalent to the life of tens of thousands of people. Every year they spent living, every ounce of energy inside their body, every second of effort they exerted to increase their strength, all of this was congregated into this beam, piercing through the walls of the white cube without any effort.

    After the beam had dissipated, Kurohana enhanced her sense of sight to its limit as she looked at what the beam had destroyed, letting out a low sigh as she found out that she had only destroyed 3 gxies with this move of hers, unlike her peak of 10 gxies back then.

    ¡°I guess I¡¯ve gotten rusty,¡± Kurohana muttered as she transferred her control back to her original body while Shirohana had taken control of her own body simultaneously. She sat on the chair while looking at the orb in front of her, pondering over what she was going to do so she could achieve her goal of bing an Immortal Verdict Wielder before the Second Divine Demon War starts.

    Fortunately, it did not take long for her to think up of a n that would allow her to do just that, looking at Kurohana with a slightly serious expression as she said, ¡°Shirohana, split yourself into two¡­.but give the second body of yours only around 20% of your power.¡±

    ¡°As you wish,¡± Shirohana said in response to Kurohana¡¯smands, closing her eyes as she chanted an incantation that was iprehensible to any other being than gods, her body gaining a line that cut her body in half lengthwise.

    Whoosh!

    Soon, the line in the middle of her body had turned corporeal, cutting Shirohana into two halves before gradually transforming into two clones that had the same appearance as Kurohana.

    Looking at the new clone that had been made, Kurohana said to her, ¡°So I don¡¯t have to be confused when I contact you, since my name is Kurohana, and the clone beside you is Shirohana, you shall be called Haihana. Do you have anyints about that?¡±

    The new clone that had been formed, who was named Haihana by Kurohana, shook her head before replying, ¡°I have noints, original body. What orders do you have for me to aplish?¡±

    ¡°Although I¡¯d rather be called Kurohana, I¡¯ll let it slide for now,¡± Kurohana replied to Haihana¡¯s question before adding, ¡°Anyways, you shall aplish the third step of this n of mine to be an Immortal Verdict Wielder before the Second Divine Demon War starts.¡±

    ¡°Your task is to wander through the worlds of mortals and live like them. Try to get a feeling of what it is to be a mortal. Also, try to learn as many skills from the mortals as possible. Martial arts, magic spells, esoteric skills, all of it will be helpful in the long run,¡± Kurohana added, to which Haihana replied with, ¡°As you wish, Kurohana.¡±

    Swoosh!

    Without hesitation, Haihana went ahead and flew out of the white cube, proceeding to follow Kurohana¡¯s orders to a T as she started to make her way towards a filled with mortals.

    After looking at the fleeting silhouette of Haihana for a short while, she then shifted her focus to Shirohana as she said, ¡°Since you have the most power out of all of us three bodies, you shall do the second step, which is to try and learn more about the Greater Law of Reincarnation, as well as obtain greater control of it. Of course, I¡¯ll learn the Greater Law of Reincarnation as well from time to time, allowing us to exchange opinions that would slightly speed up the process. But mostly, you¡¯ll be the one doing that.¡±

    ¡°As you wish, Kurohana.¡± In response to her words, Shirohana respectfully bowed before making her way towards a corner of the white cube, sitting down in a cross-legged position as she closed her eyes, attuning to the energy of thews in the universe.

    After looking at the movement of thew around Shirohana¡¯s body for a while, Kurohana eventually shifted her focus back to the floating orb in front of her, letting out a light smile as she muttered to herself, ¡°Of course, I should do the most important step of this n of mine, the first step. I¡¯m going to make sure that nothing else happens to Aurus, allowing him to continue on the path of destiny I¡¯ve set for him, and possibly even speed it up.¡±

    ¡°Hm?¡± At this moment, the image on the orb was that of Aurus upgrading his system to the next level, eliciting a light chuckle from Kurohana as she shifted the image on the orb to that of the entity who found out what she was doing. Noticing that the entity that found out what she was doing had given up on meddling with Aurus, Kurohana could not help but lightly chuckle once again as she said, ¡°Well then.¡±

    ¡°It seems that luck is on my side.¡±

 Chapter 196: The Road to Power

    Chapter 196: The Road to Power

    XXXX Continent, outside the Tempest Cliff.

    ¡°Haah¡­is this what the original body felt while he was wandering throughout this world alone?¡± A being made out of pure green energy could not help but mutter to itself as it dashed through the terrain at its maximum speed, startling those who were lucky enough to get near the being. This being took on the shape of a human but it did not have facial features¡­yet for some reason, it emted a part that was not even needed for its existence level, being covered up with tworge leaves wrapped around its waist.

    This being was none other than Argentum, who already felt bored after only leaving the Tempest Cliff for around 20 minutes. Nheless, he continued to run towards Verdant Breeze Town since that¡¯s what he promised to his original body, Aurus.

    At the moment, he was recalling the n he had in mind whichposed of the things he would do while on his way to Verdant Breeze Town. Concurrently, he was also wondering how his original body was able to withstand such boredom for a long amount of time before meeting Herellia and the others. Surprisingly, rather than focus on the n he had in mind, he decided to look through the shared memories of both him and Aurus, specifically searching for the things Aurus had done while he was still alone.

    ¡°¡­¡± After looking at what his original body had done to stave off boredom in the start, Argentum was left at a loss for words, wondering if there was a part of his original body that had already gone insane thanks to it. It was then that he made a promise to himself that he would not lose his mind like his original body while traveling to Verdant Breeze Town¡­no matter how boring it may be.

    ¡°But how am I going to do that¡­¡± Just as Argentum asked himself this question, the other thought that was simultaneously going on in his mind a while ago had surfaced as if it was the answer to his question, which Argentum was surprisingly happy to remember.

    ¡°Right! Unlike my original body, I have multiple skills I could grind while I¡¯m on my way to Verdant Breeze Town,¡± Argentum said to himself in glee as he added, ¡°Not only that, I also have to obtain some skills from the areas I have to pass through as well!¡±

    As he said thest statement, an aura of seriousness emanated from him as he ced his index finger and thumb under his chin while running, going over through his memories as he muttered, ¡°I know how to obtain those skills when I¡¯m an Inanimate or an Animate. How am I going to obtain that as a Pseudo-Animate though?¡±

    Eventually, he stopped thinking about this question as he let out a light chuckle before saying, ¡°I¡¯m far from that area so I shouldn¡¯t think about it for now. I should do what I can currently do, which is to grind my skills like crazy!¡±

    ¡°System, open up the skill list,¡± Argentummanded the system in his mind, to which system promptly responded by showing a small holographic screen in front of Argentum, taking into consideration that he was currently running.

    Ding!

    ________

    Active Skills:

    [Lesser Wind Magic Lv. 1], [Hundred Facade Polymorph Lv. 1], [Grand Breeze Rejuvenation Lv. 1], [Mana Barrier Lv. 1], [Great Mana Domain Lv. 1], [Mana Awakening Lv. 1]

    Passive Skills:

    [Blessing of the Great Wind Lv. 1], [Lesser Mana Affinity Lv. 1], [Clouded Mana Core Lv. 1], [Boundless Potential Lv. 1], [Spirit Resonance Lv. MAX]

    ________

    As he looked at the skills on the screen that had appeared in front of his field of vision, he wouldmand the system to show its description, allowing him to formte a n that would let him improve his skills at an insanely fast rate. Of course, calling it the formtion of a n was more or less an exaggeration, in actuality, he was organizing the skills on his list, prioritizing those that had a lower grade first before those with the higher grades.

    ¡°By the looks of it, the lowest skill grade on my list is the C-grade Mortal level, which consists of a single active skill, and three passive skills. As for the highest skill grade on my list, that would be the A-grade Mortal level, which consists of all of the remaining skills on my list, except for [Spirit Resonance], which has no grade and level whatsoever,¡± Argentum muttered as he thought out loud while running, sparing some of his consciousness towards the terrain in front of him.

    ¡°C-grade Mortal level skills have a maximum level of 10 for a Pseudo-Animate, which is 7 levels higher than on the Inanimate existence level. As for A-grade Mortal level skills, they have a maximum level of 30, which is 20 levels higher than on the Inanimate existence level. From that¡­I have no problems with what I¡¯m going to prioritize then,¡± Argentum continued to mutter before a grin appeared on his featureless face, raising his left arm as a ball of mana manifested a few centimeters away from his palm as he continued to run.

    He then threw this mana ball towards a nearby tree as he shouted, ¡°[Lesser Wind Magic]!¡±

    ¡°[Wind Ball]!¡±

    Whoosh! Bang!

    Just as the mana ball was about to collide with the tree, the ball had undergone an abrupt change, instantly radiating an intense aura of Wind before truly hitting the tree, creating arge crater on its trunk as it made multiplecerations on it as well.

    Ding!

    ¡°[Lesser Wind Magic] has leveled up.¡±

    ¡°[Clouded Mana Core] has leveled up.¡±

    ¡°[Blessing of the Great Wind] has leveled up.¡±

    As a notification sound resounded throughout his mind, the system went ahead and announced the notifications he had gotten from that attack, slightly shocking him as he expected only the first skill, [Lesser Wind Magic], to level up. But then, relying on the shared memories he had, he eventually realized why three skills had leveled up instead of one, prompting Argentum to stop in his ce as he pondered over something.

    In his mind were multiple thoughts rted to the skills he currently had. At this moment, he was pondering over what he could do to increase the speed of improvement of his skills after remembering this fact, and not only rely on the original body¡¯s absorption of the Transcending Comprehension Leaf to increase his speed of improvement.

    After a few minutes of pondering over whatbination of skills could be used to improve as many skills as possible with one move, an optimalbination was soon realized in Argentum¡¯s mind, making him let out a sigh as he chuckled at the same time.

    ¡°By doing this, am I considered a masochist?¡± He could not help but ask himself this question as he looked at the terrain in front of him before continuing to run once more. He then went over the optimalbination of skills in his mind before taking a deep breath of air as he prepared himself for what he was going to do.

    ¡°If only I had as much energy to use just like the original body,¡± Argentum muttered before adding, ¡°Making sure that all skills activate with the least amount of energy is quite hard. Nheless, by doing this, I¡¯ll be able to increase my maximum energy capacity.¡±

    ¡°First off¡­¡±

    ¡°[Great Mana Domain]¡­¡±

    ¡°[Bare-bones]!¡±

    Whoosh!

    At the instant he muttered the name of this skill, a faint blue light had covered his body, increasing the regeneration rate of his energy while increasing the maximum amount of energy he could hold well. Unfortunately, due to the method of activation Argentum had used, only a small boost had been applied to Argentum. Nevertheless, after seeing that it was sessful, Argentum chuckled as two notifications resounded in his mind, telling him that [Great Mana Domain] and [Clouded Mana Core] had both leveled up.

    ¡°If the ¡®Legendary Tinkerer¡¯ knew that [Bare-bones] could actually work with any skill one had, he¡¯d surely be at the Divinity existence level by now,¡± Argentum said as a certain memory surfaced in his mind while he was about to activate another skill.

    ¡­

    In this memory was Aurus, who was a well-renowned peak Animate level yer in ISE, and in front of him was a person that had a reputation far greater than Aurus¡¯s, only being known with the nickname of ¡®Legendary Tinkerer¡¯ due to the countless experiments he had done in ISE to maximize the efficiency of his resources.

    ¡°Hey, Aurus. Since we¡¯ve known each other for a long time and you¡¯ve even helped me out on some stuff, I¡¯ll teach you a skill I¡¯ve created that would allow you to attack with your skills, no matter how small your mana is,¡± the Legendary Tinkerer said to Aurus, to which Aurus became eager in an instant, telling the Legendary Tinkerer to hurry up and teach him what the skill was.

    In response, the Legendary Tinkerer could not help but chuckle as he looked at the eager expression on Aurus¡¯s face for a second before extending out his right arm, manifesting a fireball the size of a bowling ball not long after.

    ¡°You know very well that the main stat mages focus on is the MP stat,¡± the Legendary Tinkerer said to Aurus as he waved the bowling ball-sized fireball around before continuing, ¡°The more MP a mage has, the more spells they can dish out, the more damage they can deal.¡±

    ¡°Well, I don¡¯t know if this is a feature of the game or not, but if you control the amount of mana you put into the spell that¡¯s currently activated¡­¡± As the Legendary Tinkerer said these words, the bowling ball-sized fireball hovering on his right palm gradually shrunk¡­eventually reaching a size that was akin to a small grape.

    ¡°You could either exert a great amount of power by overloading your spell with mana¡­or conserve the amount of mana you have by reducing the power output of your spell. Almost all of the famous mages in this server have heard of the former, but only I have found a way that would make thetter not inferior in any way to the former.¡±

    ¡°By relying on active buffs, that could have its output reduced as well, one could fight against an army of a million without ever worrying about their amount of mana. Instead of fighting against numbers with onerge attack that could easily decimate a giant piece ofnd, why not use multiple small-scale spells that have enough energy to kill the enemies in front of you?¡± the Legendary Tinkerer continued exining before throwing the grape-sized fireball towards a nearby tree. At the instant the fireball had collided with the tree, the tree was instantly turned into charred ash.

    ¡°It could be said as the pinnacle of a mage¡¯s control, urately controlling the amount of mana needed for a spell to execute an enemy.¡±

    ¡°I call those variant spells¡­¡±

    ¡°[Bare-bones].¡±

    ¡­

    After activating [Great Mana Domain: Bare-bones], Argentum then went ahead and activated [Mana Barrier] in [Bare-bones] form, obtaining a level-up on both [Mana Barrier] and [Clouded Mana Core]. Not long after that, he then extended his left arm as a ball of mana manifested on top of his left palm before aiming it towards his body.

    ¡°[Lesser Wind Magic: Wind Ball]!¡±

    Bang!

    Thanks to the barrier that was covering all parts of his body, Argentum was more or less unscathed after hitting himself with the spell he had just conjured. Just as he thought that he was safe from the attack he fired onto himself, he noticed that a certain part on his torso was glowing weakly whenpared to the surrounding areas, making Argentum lightly chuckle as he ced his right hand over the weakly glowing area before muttering, ¡°[Grand Breeze Rejuvenation: Bare-bones].¡±

    Whoosh!

    Since the wound he had received from the attack was not that serious, the amount of mana that he had imbued on the healing skill he had was enough to return the weakly glowing area to its original form, obtaining notifications not long after that [Lesser Wind Magic], [Grand Breeze Rejuvenation], [Blessing of the Great Wind], and [Clouded Mana Core] had leveled up, with thetter leveling up twice.

    After going through all of that, Argentum stopped where he was before heughed and said, ¡°[Great Mana Domain], [Grand Breeze Rejuvenation], and [Mana Barrier] are all A-grade Mortal level skills, so their requirements for MP is multiple notches higher than [Lesser Wind Magic] by a long shot, which only needs 1 MP to fire a [Wind Ball].¡±

    ¡°Fortunately, that guy taught me on how to make spells [Bare-bones], allowing me to do thebination I had just done on myself,¡± Argentum continued to think out loud as he added, ¡°Thisbination would allow me to more or less level up six skills at the same time, with immensely great focus on [Clouded Mana Core]. The faster I level it up, the more MP I can work with.¡±

    ¡°Now that I think about it, did the original body think about using [Bare-bones] while grinding his skills?¡± Argentum pondered as this thought came to mind, before concluding that the original body did not even consider the idea as he had too much energy to work with.

    ¡°Oh well,¡± Argentum shrugged before letting out a short chuckle. ¡°Since he doesn¡¯t know about this, the more he¡¯ll be shocked by how much I¡¯ve improved.¡±

    Ding!

    Just as he was about to go over thatbination of skills once more, he had obtained a notification from the system, which made radiate an aura of confusion as this notification was too abrupt. He then listened to the system¡¯s voice as it read through the notification, hastily activating a skill not long after.

    ¡°[Reward Sharing] has been enabled between the two bodies.¡±

    ¡°Due to [Reward Sharing], the skill [Wind Barrier] has been shared with you by Aurus. Unfortunately, due to the difference in existence level, the efficacy of said skill has been diminished.¡±

    ¡°Due to the resonance between [Wind Barrier] and [Mana Barrier], the two skills havebined, forming [Wind Mana Barrier].¡±

    After going through all of the notifications, he then sent a message through the system, establishing a connection with the only one he knew that would do such a thing, his original body.

    ¡°Hello?¡± Argentum said to initiate the conversation, to which the original body, Aurus, replied, ¡°Oh? If it isn¡¯t Argentum. Missed me after you just left the Tempest Cliff?¡±

    ¡°To be honest, I was grinding all of the skills on my list, including the ones you transferred to me before I left the Tempest Cliff,¡± Argentum responded to Aurus¡¯s question, before letting out a sigh. Not long after, he continued, ¡°But¡­what¡¯s this [Reward Sharing] thing? And how are you sharing so many skills with me?¡±

    ¡°[Reward Sharing] is something I¡¯ve unlocked after you became my clone,¡± Aurus answered Argentum¡¯s query through an exnation before adding, ¡°You also have ess to this.¡±

    He then continued, ¡°As for the skills¡­do you remember the Tempest Cliff Inheritance?¡±

    ¡°Tempest Cliff Inheritance¡­¡± Argentum repeated Aurus¡¯sst words as a shocked expression soon appeared on his featureless face. With no way to let this shock out through other means, he asked Aurus, ¡°You mean¡­the skill room?¡±

    ¡°Bingo,¡± Aurus replied with a chuckle. He then added, ¡°Don¡¯t you think I¡¯m kind? Boosting your abilities and specialties even further before you reach Verdant Breeze Town?¡±

    ¡°Not gonna lie, I just think you¡¯re adding more burden onto me,¡± Argentum responded to his question before letting out a slightly exasperated sigh. But then, a drive to make Aurus shocked covered his whole body, adding onto his words with a chuckle, ¡°But¡­if Iined early on, I wouldn¡¯t be the strongest Super Animate in existence, right?¡±

    ¡°Keep those skillsing, Aurus. Once Ie back from this trip, I¡¯ll show you how much I¡¯ve improved!¡± Argentum said not long after in a confident tone, to which Aurus let out a short chuckle before responding, ¡°I¡¯ll be an X-grade Inanimate by then, but sure! I¡¯ll be d to fight against my clone!¡±

    After that, the connection between the two had been cut off, with Argentum¡¯s motivation being kindled even further with what Aurus was doing right now. Unfortunately for Argentum, just as he was about to go through thebination of skills to start his extreme skill grind, a voice resounded in his mind all of a sudden.

    ¡°Oi, Argentum. Give me back the unused experience points.¡±

    ¡°¡­¡±

    ¡°¡­¡±

    ¡°Haah¡­give me a few seconds.¡±

 Chapter 197: Mass Fusion

    Chapter 197: Mass Fusion

    Ding!

    ¡°Due to the difference in existence level of the two bodies, the user has obtained 504,232,000 unused experience points from Argentum.¡± Not long after talking with Argentum about the unused experience points, a notification soon came to Aurus, to which a monotonous voice read in his mind. Of course, with Theresa on his left shoulder, he ignored the monotonous voice resounding in his mind andmanded the system to show the notification through a screen instead.

    Whoosh!

    As a slightly corporeal screen appeared in front of his field of vision, Aurus went ahead and manifested a hand out of the massive amount of FP he had before using it to point towards the screen as he focused his sense of vision towards Theresa and asked, ¡°Is this amount sufficient enough to fuse all of the skills?¡±

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡± Theresa crossed its arms and ced an index finger and a thumb under its chin, pondering as it looked at the amount that Aurus had received from Argentum, making multiple calctions silently in a matter of an instant. A few secondster, Theresa nodded its head before looking at Aurus with a smile on its face, saying, ¡°The amount of points that have been given is more than enough to fuse all of the skills, Master!¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s a relief,¡± Aurus let out an inward sigh of relief as he listened to Theresa¡¯s words. Of course, 500 million experience points was more than enough for an Inanimate to level up from C-grade to X-grade without a problem¡­for a hundred times. Nevertheless, he thought about how many experience points he had used up while fusing the small number of skills he had back then whileparing it to the great number of skills he had right now¡­albeit all of them being at the lowest possible grade.

    ¡°Since all of these skills are at the C-grade Mortal level, the cost to fuse two skills into one is equivalent to one level of mine,¡± Aurus muttered as he was thinking out loud before continuing, ¡°I have obtained 1255 skills from this skill room¡­which equates to around¡­628 levels. Of course, I ordered Theresa that all of the skills must be fused to their limits, which means that the fusion will happen again and again¡­until only a few skills remain.¡±

    It was then that Aurus realized that Theresa¡¯s ¡®more than enough¡¯¡­might not be the same as Aurus¡¯s ¡®more than enough¡¯. With this in mind, Aurus went ahead and asked Theresa as he radiated an aura of slight unease, ¡°Theresa, how many unused experience points do you reckon will be used while fusing these skills?¡±

    ¡°Oh! Out of the 504,232,000 experience points that you have supplied me, Master, I presume around at least 380 million of those points shall be used up in fusing these skills!¡± Theresa replied with a cheerful smile on its face. In response to this, Aurus let out an exasperated sigh, slightly regretting the fact that he learned all of the skills in this room.

    ¡°Then again¡­120 million experience points is still more than enough for me to max out my level once I reach X-grade Inanimate, as well as max out Fenrir and Charisa¡¯s levels before they attempt an Existence Tribtion. Not only that, but it¡¯s also enough for my ns after that,¡± Aurus muttered to himself to get his hopes up¡­only for it to be crushed yet again by Theresa¡¯s words.

    ¡°Ah, I must also remind Master that I might go over this estimated amount. Due to the number of skills I¡¯m working with, I¡¯m not quite sure as to how many unused experience points I would use up. What I gave was just an educated guess,¡± Theresa said, to which Aurus responded with, ¡°I¡­I see.¡±

    Whoosh!

    Not long after responding to Theresa¡¯s words, an aura of mncholy radiated from Aurus as he shouted in his mind, ¡®My precious unused experience points¡­! Farewell!¡¯

    Just as he was thinking about this, Theresa went ahead and started fusing all of the skills together, gesturing with its hands as it gradually emanated a faint golden glow. It then raised both hands upward, with multiple motes of light of various colors and sizesing out of Aurus¡¯s body not long after.

    Swoosh! Swoosh!

    Under the maniption of Theresa, these motes of light arranged themselves in front of Aurus¡¯s field of vision in an orderly fashion, with the ones that were the biggest and glowed the brightest at the top, and those that were the smallest and glowed the dimmest being at the bottom.

    After noticing what Theresa was doing, Aurus decided that there was no use moping around over experience points that were going to help him improve hisbat power, focusing his sense of vision on the plethora of little motes of light that were positioned a decent distance away from his field of vision.

    He looked at these motes of light and noticed that almost all of them were incredibly small and dim, while only a handful were big and bright, with Aurus hastily concluding that these were the skills he had learned, albeit in a form that was more visual than ever before.

    ¡°Master, I think you¡¯d want to see this,¡± Theresa said to Aurus before sping its glowing hands together, setting off an array of small explosions in front of Aurus¡¯s field of vision. Fortunately, these explosions were only visual. If these explosions also had an auditory part into it, Aurus was incredibly sure that he would teleport away from the skill room ande back when Theresa tells him the process is done.

    But since the explosions were only visual, Aurus became engrossed at the intricacies of the explosions. Amidst the multiple shing lights, there were multiple conclusions to the collisions of the motes of light, or in other words, the fusion of the skills.

    There were times that two motes of light would sh against each other and not find a winner, eventually deciding to co-exist as a part of them existed in the other. There were also times that a mote of light would easily engulf the other mote of light, yet the power of the engulfed mote of light would still be seen as little dots. Of course, there were also motes of light that are on the same line, a resonance forming between the two of them as the two motes of light fuse as one, with the appearance of both motes of light ovepping one another from time to time.

    To Aurus, the sight of what the motes of light were doing was akin to a skill. A skill that he could not learn as of yet. Nevertheless, even though he felt that he could not learn this skill, he could at least take some ideas from it and incorporate it into his skills.

    Eventually, around ten minutes had passed, with the only remaining motes of light in front of Aurus¡¯ field of vision all being big and bright. Naturally, these motes of light had undergone the same things that the small motes of light had undergone, leaving a few dozenrge motes of light that made their way towards Aurus¡¯s body, only to be absorbed by his body a few secondster.

    Whirr¡­

    At the very instant he had absorbed these motes of light, Aurus could feel a sort of strength coursing throughout his body that was both familiar and unfamiliar to him at the same time. Little by little, this strength gradually adapted toAurus¡¯s body, eventually infusing him with a strength that seemed weak on the outside, yet intrepidly strong in reality.

    Ding! Ding! Ding! Ding!

    After being infused with a newfound strength, a near incessant amount of notification sounds resounded in his mind, making Aurus sigh inwardly that he was going to have to endure through the monotonous voice yet again. Surprisingly, after the notification sounds had stopped, there was no monotonous voice that resounded in his mind whatsoever. As he wondered as to why that was the case, Aurus heard a light chuckle from his shoulder, prompting him to look at Theresa.

    ¡°It seems that Master does not like the original voice of the system that much, so I shall read out the notifications and even add a bit onto it for Master instead,¡± Theresa said after grabbing Aurus¡¯s attention, sticking out its tongue before starting to talk about the notifications Aurus had obtained.

    Taking a deep breath of air, Theresa then started to talk, saying, ¡°The active ss skill [Grand Spiritas Deification] has fused with multiple skills of the same category, transforming into the active ss skill [Supreme Deification] of the Epic grade. Due to the low grade of the skills that were fused with this skill, the grade of [Supreme Deification] has lowered to C-grade Mortal level.¡±

    Listening to the first notification attentively, Aurus could not help but radiate an aura of shock as he heard that he had obtained a skill at the Epic grade. Not only that, but for some reason, the skill had reverted to the lowest grade possible, C-grade Mortal level. He pondered over it for some time, eventually understanding why thetter had happened, but he could not wrap his head around the former, interrupting Theresa from continuing as he asked, ¡°Are you certain that [Grand Spiritas Deification]¡­rather, [Supreme Deification]¡­is of the Epic grade?¡±

    ¡°I am incredibly certain, Master,?? Theresa replied to Aurus¡¯s question without getting annoyed. It then added, ¡°The system cannot lie in front of Master after it has obtained the [Penultimate Veridical Spirit].¡±

    ¡°[Penultimate Veridical Spirit]¡­¡± Aurus muttered the name of the skill Theresa mentioned. Just as he was about to ask its properties, Theresa continued to talk, saying, ¡°If you still don¡¯t believe the system, Master¡­here is the skill¡¯s new description.¡±

    Whoosh!

    Without dy, a slightly corporeal screen appeared in front of Aurus¡¯s field of vision, to which he had no choice but to read since he was incredibly skeptical of what Theresa was saying. But then¡­after he read through the description of [Supreme Deification], he went silent for a bit before saying, ¡°Continue.¡±

    _________

    [Supreme Deification (Epic)] (Level 1/3)

    Grade: Mortal (C)

    A status boosting skill formed from the fusion of multiple skills that harmonize and resonate with one another, allowing one to boost their stats to unimaginable levels. Due to the low grades of the fused skills, the full potential of this skill cannot be seen, being sealed for the safety of the user. Of course, being a skill with a fixed name, the power it gives even at a low grade cannot be mocked.

    > When activated, increases all of the user¡¯s stats by 600%

    > When [Supreme Deification] is activated, the user gains ess to [Supreme Entity], increasing the user¡¯s stats even further by 400%

    > When [Sole Entity] is activated, the user gains ess to [Ruler of All], allowing the user to create a domain wherein the user can control anything and everything inside it in exchange for the user¡¯s gained stats. The effectiveness of the user¡¯s control over the domain is reliant on the amount of stats the user has gained from the skill.

    ________

    ¡®Is this really the [Grand Spiritas Deification] I often used before?¡¯ Aurus could not help but shout out loud in his mind, thinking that this skill he had received was incredibly broken, especially thest part where he could create a domain that allowed him to control everything in exchange for his gained stats. To him, exchanging the stats gained from a skill was quite a good price for an ability like that.

    ¡®Not to mention, a skill with a fixed name¡­¡¯ Aurus continued to think about the description of the skill, recalling the three tiers of skills based on names. ording to his memories, a skill with a changing name every evolution is the weakest type of skill, a skill with a fixed name is the second strongest type of skill, while a skill with a fixed but simple name¡­is a skill that could easily make others submit to a being.

    Since the first notification had set his expectations for the fused skills that came after it to a very high point, Aurus was very eager to find out what level they had reached in terms of their names and rarities. Fortunately, due to the great number of skills that were fused, all of the skills that came after [Supreme Deification] did not disappoint Aurus.

    ¡°The active ss skill [Ancient Modr Flux Equipment Fabrication] has fused with multiple skills of the same category, transforming into the active ss skill [Flux Equipment Creation] of the Legendary grade. Due to the low grades of the skills that were fused with this skill, the grade of [Flux Equipment Creation] has lowered to C-grade Mortal level.¡±

    ¡°The active Species skill [Omnipresent Spiritas Waltz] has fused with multiple skills of the same category, transforming into the active ss skill [Omnipresent Movement] of the Rare grade. Due to the low grades of the skills that were fused with this skill, the grade of [Omnipresent Movement] has lowered to C-grade Mortal level.¡±

    ¡°¡­¡±

    ¡°¡­¡±

    ¡°The skill [Nine Realms¡¯ Myriad Spellswords] has fused with multiple skills of the same category, transforming into the active ss skill [Spellswords of Ruination] of the Legendary grade. Due to the low grades of the skills that were fused with this skill, the grade of [Spellswords of Ruination] has lowered to C-grade Mortal level.¡±

    Eventually, Theresa was finished going over the notifications that hade after all of the skills Aurus had obtained from the skill room had fused with the skills he already had, with him identifying every one of them before being left at a loss for words every time. At the end of all that, Aurus could not help but let out a satisfied sigh before muttering, ¡°Using all of those unused experience points is incredibly worth it. Although it looks like that I¡¯ve weakened on paper, in actuality, I¡¯ve grown stronger. Far stronger than what I used to be.¡±

    While feeling satisfied with the oue of the fusions, Aurus went ahead and asked Theresa as a thought shed in his mind, ¡°Ah, right. Theresa, how many unused experience points have you used in the fusion?¡±

    ¡°Er¡­¡± Theresa tried to recall the costs for each fusion before calcting all of them into a single sum in a matter of seconds, eventually replying with a smile on its face as it said, ¡°In total, the fusion has used up 476 million unused experience points, Master!¡±

    ¡°¡­¡± After hearing what Theresa said, Aurus was left at a loss for words¡­this time from intense grief. A few secondster, he let out a long and disappointed sigh before telling Theresa in a slightly dejected tone, ¡°With our purpose here now fulfilled, let us go and get Comprehension Leaves.¡±

    Not long after, he softly muttered to himself, ¡°Haah¡­I can max out Fenrir, Charisa, and myself with around 30 million unused experience points. But what about whates after that¡­?¡±

    Oblivious to what Aurus was currently feeling, Theresa replied to Aurus¡¯s words in a cheerful tone and said, ¡°Let us depart, Master!¡±

 Chapter 198: An Unexpected Trial

    Chapter 198: An Unexpected Trial

    Whoosh!

    After doing what he had to do in the Tempest Cliff Inheritance, he soon left the ce through teleportation, only taking a few teleports to do so. Nevertheless, the aura that was radiating from him was the same at the time when he was about to leave the Tempest Cliff Inheritance.

    Dejection.

    The reason why he was dejected was that the number of unused experience points that he could use right now was less than the amount he was told before, even though his personal assistant, Theresa, told him that the number given to him was an educated guess and was not the exact amount it would use.

    He was positioned on the center of the magic circle that led to the insides of the inheritance, letting out a low sigh as he looked at the ruins that surrounded the magic circle. He then focused his sense of vision towards the sky, taking note of the fact that the sun was close to setting. While looking at these things, he was pondering on what he could do to increase the number of unused experience points he had by a lot in a short amount of time.

    Of course, he thought about killing Inanimates to solve this problem, but the amount of experience they gave was minuscule whenpared to the needs of Aurus. He also thought about killing Animates, having the feeling that he would be able to easily kill them as long as he hid wisely and killed them in one shot. But then, his rational side took over the majority of his thoughts, thinking about the consequences if he got caught killing Animates.

    Rather than having a grudge towards him, they would pursue him even more due to the power he held and turn him into a weapon that would allow them to wield the same level of power, or perhaps even greater.

    ¡°I could go ahead and kill Pseudo-Animates since that would be the perfect existence level to kill at my level ofbat power,¡± Aurus muttered to himself as he continued to think of ways to alleviate his problem, adding, ¡°But Pseudo-Animates are incredibly rare by the looks of it. When I came with Herellia to the inheritance that gave Comprehension Leaves, I did not even see any Pseudo-Animates roaming around in the wilderness.¡±

    ¡°Haah.¡± Aurus let out a sigh of slight frustration at this problem. Just as he was epting his fate of killing a massive amount of Pseudo-Animates at once, he remembered something that he had activated inside the Tempest Cliff Inheritance a while ago, a skill that had a description that could alleviate his problem.

    ¡°[Reward Sharing]¡­would Argentum even kill a few beings along the way to Verdant Breeze Town?¡± Aurus pondered over it, his aura of dejection being reced with slight happiness not long after. As a thought rted to Pseudo-Animates shed across in mind, he then said with slight confidence, ¡°If he wants to be strong, he has no choice but to kill a few beings. I almost forgot that Pseudo-Animate skills have mastery levels just like Animates.¡±

    With that in mind, Aurus was more or less at ease about the sess of his third n. Of course, he also had a back-up n in the off-chance that Argentum¡¯s killing spree wouldeter than sooner, killing a stray Animate¡­or even a few of them.

    ¡°Let¡¯s head to the second inheritance,¡± Aurus said to Theresa with a moreposed tone this time, to which Theresa replied with glee, ¡°As you wish, Master!¡±

    Whoosh!

    And just like that, both Aurus and Theresa had disappeared from the center of the magic circle, heading towards the town that housed the inheritance that gave Aurus not only Comprehension Leaves, but a title as well.

    ¡­

    Whoosh!

    Around an hourter, Aurus and Theresa had finally arrived at the outskirts of the town where the inheritance resided, with Aurus radiating an aura of slight shock as he tested out the new and improved movement skill he had obtained after fusing all of those skills to their limit.

    ¡°[Omnipresent Movement]¡­to think that this movement skill that leaned towards flying rather than teleportation back then would turn into a teleportation skill that far eclipses the range of [Nebulous Tempest Blessing],¡± Aurus muttered as he recalled the distance he had traveled with a single teleportation of both skills. While still in awe, he added, ¡°Even without activating [Zenith Nihility Dash], I could travel a distance that¡¯s farther than [Nebulous Tempest Blessing] and [Zenith Nihility Dash] used in tandem.¡±

    ¡°The only downside is the amount of FP consumed per teleportation,¡± Aurus muttered with a chuckle before adding, ¡°Then again, I have tons of FP to use anyway.¡±

    Whoosh!

    Unlike before, where he would have morphed into an inconspicuous object so that he would not attract the attention of the Animates that were guarding the perimeter of the town, as well as the Animates that lived inside the town, Aurus believed in the range of [Omnipresent Movement] as a lot of his FP was consumed, with him and Theresa appearing inside a dark and secluded ce not long after.

    At the instant Aurus and Theresa had arrived at this dark and secluded ce, Aurus took a look around his surroundings and radiated an aura of satisfaction after noticing there were multiple nks of wood blocking the entrance behind him. In other words, he had sessfully entered the abandoned mineshaft where the inheritance resided without having to pass through the Animates.

    He then went ahead and teleported to the innermost portion of the abandoned mineshaft, eventually ending up in a corridor that led to a dead end. He looked at the dead-end of this corridor, radiating an aura of slight tion as he noticed that an inconspicuous magic circle was etched on the wall. Cross-referencing the memory he had of the magic circle that led to the inheritance from before, he was certain that this magic circle was the one he wanted to enter.

    ¡°If I remember correctly, to enter the inheritance, I should reply to the words said by the magic circle,¡± Aurus muttered as he slowly made his way towards the magic circle, eventually standing a decent distance away from the magic circle. He focused his sense of vision towards it, waiting for a voice to resound so he could get into the inheritance and obtain Comprehension Leaves.

    Whirr¡­

    ¡°Eh?¡± Surprisingly, rather than that being the case, without any warning or sign beforehand, the inconspicuous magic circle started to glow a faint white as a suctioning force gradually enveloped Aurus, leaving no trace of him ever crossing the corridor a few secondster.

    Whoosh!

    Around a minute after Aurus was abruptly sucked in by the force of the magic circle, he and Theresa had soon appeared in the center of arge stone room. At the instant he had arrived in this room, he looked around and noticed that it was the stone room he was in when he first attempted the inheritance, but considerably bigger than the one he was in when he first attempted the inheritance.

    Realizing that this was the case, Aurus could not help but be confused, asking himself, ¡°How the heck did I enter the inheritance so easily? Is it because I entered the inheritance before. No, that wouldn¡¯t be the case since Herellia had been here before, yet she had to reply to the magic circle to enter the inheritance.¡±

    ¡°Seriously, how?¡± Aurus muttered not long after as he tried to make sense of the situation he was currently in. Just as he was about to enter a deep state of thinking, a voice he was somewhat familiar with resounded throughout the whole stone room he was in, prompting Theresa to snap him back to reality and shout, ¡°Master, listen to the voice!¡±

    ¡°Hm?¡± Although he was slightly annoyed at the fact that he was interrupted from his train of thought by Theresa, at the very instant he heard the voice resounding throughout the room, a certain memory surfaced in his mind as he muttered in disbelief, ¡°Is that¡­the Inheritance Ruler¡¯s voice?¡±

    ¡°Wee back to the great Ruler Inheritance, Substitute Ruler of the Void!¡± This was what the voice was saying as it resounded throughout the room it was in. A few secondster, a chuckle resounded before it was followed up with, ¡°Oh? It seems I was mistaken. Wee back to the great Ruler Inheritance, Assistant Ruler of the Void.¡±

    ¡°The Inheritance Ruler?¡± After making sure that the voice came from the Inheritance Ruler that allowed him to obtain the title of Ruler of the Void, Aurus could not help but shout out his question before adding, ¡°Is that really you?¡±

    ¡°Of course I am! Why would it not be me?¡± the Inheritance Ruler, which was the voice resounding a while ago, replied to Aurus¡¯s question with a cheerful tone before abruptly changing into a slightly mncholic tone as it added, ¡°It has only been over a week or so since you came here, but you¡¯ve already forgotten me? How unpopr must I be¡­boohoo.¡±

    ¡°Haah.¡± In response to the Inheritance Ruler¡¯s words, Aurus could not help but let out a loud sigh as he recalled the weird phenomenon before he entered the inheritance a while ago. Since the Inheritance Ruler was directlymunicating with him at the very instant he had entered, he would be able to obtain the answer to his question easily. This was the thought in his mind.

    ¡°Er¡­Inheritance Ruler, I have two questions,¡± Aurus said out loud, which attracted the attention of the Inheritance Ruler as it stopped its mncholic facade before responding with, ¡°What is it?¡±

    ¡°First off, how the heck did I enter this inheritance without going through the usual process of replying to the magic circle¡¯s words?¡± Aurus replied to the Inheritance Ruler¡¯s question with a question of his own before following it up with, ¡°Second, are you really okay with me calling you the Inheritance Ruler? It¡¯s quite a long name.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m d you asked,¡± the Inheritance Ruler said before letting out a light chuckle. The sound of someone taking in a deep breath could be heard resounding throughout the room Aurus was in before the Inheritance Ruler¡¯s voice could be heard, saying, ¡°I¡¯ll answer the second question first. You can call me the Inheritance Ruler and I wouldn¡¯t mind it since we¡¯re not that close. But since you find it a slightly cumbersome name to say, how about calling me Inhee? It¡¯s a name I made up from the word ¡®inheritance¡¯.¡±

    ¡°Inhee¡­¡± Aurus muttered it in response as he repeated this name in his mind multiple times. A few secondster, he replied, ¡°Inhee is fine. Anyways, the first question?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s quite simple, really,¡± the Inheritance Ruler¡­or rather, Inhee replied to Aurus¡¯s query before adding, ¡°The reason why you entered this inheritance without needing to go through the usual process is that you already have a Ruler title. Only those that don¡¯t have a full Ruler title must go through the usual process.¡±

    ¡°I see,¡± Aurus said in response to Inhee¡¯s reply, thinking that this did indeed make sense. Just as Aurus was about to ask Inhee a question, Inhee took the initiative to ask Aurus a question first, asking him, ¡°Anyways, why did youe to this inheritance again, Assistant Ruler of the Void?¡±

    ¡°I need more Comprehension Leaves,¡± Aurus responded to Inhee¡¯s question before adding, ¡°Also, calling me Aurus is fine with me.¡±

    ¡°Hoh? You need more Comprehension Leaves?¡± Inhee said with slight curiosity. It then added, ¡°What for?¡±

    ¡°To increase myprehension speed to the limit,¡± Aurus replied without hiding anything.

    ¡°Well, since you¡¯re an official Ruler, I wouldn¡¯t mind giving you as much Comprehension Leaves as you want,¡± Inhee said after pondering over Aurus¡¯s words, which made Aurus radiate an aura of gratefulness and tion. But then, this aura was instead reced with curiosity as Inhee said, ¡°But¡­¡±

    ¡°But¡­?¡± Aurus wondered why. Thankfully, Inhee satiated his curiosity as it continued, ¡°After sensing your presence in this inheritance, the Supreme Ruler of the Void, which is more or less your teacher, wanted to test you out. He noticed that you were acting in a way that was unbefitting for a Ruler of the Void, using the inferior element of Wind rather than the superior element of Void.¡±

    ¡°Huh?¡± Aurus was somewhat confused as he added, ¡°You did tell me that I could choose any Ruler I wanted to learn under, right? When did he be so demanding?¡±

    ¡°His words, not mine,¡± Inhee replied to Aurus¡¯s query as it added, ¡°Nheless, after looking at what you were doing secretly, he was slightly infuriated that you were using the element of Wind instead of the Void to fight against others, making him ponder whether epting you as a Ruler of the Void was a right choice.¡±

    ¡°Since the power you hold as an Inanimate far surpasses the average power held by the Inanimates that came here before you, the Supreme Ruler of the Void has decided to give you a second chance and let you undergo a trial that would remove his doubts.¡±

    ¡°¡­¡± Aurus was left at a loss for words, wondering what he did to tick this powerful Ruler off. Although it seemed that since a Supreme Ruler was doing this so he had no choice but to ept, Aurus went ahead and asked Inhee just to clear his doubts, ¡°Can I decline?¡±

    ¡°Declining the trial means you give up the title of Assistant Ruler of the Void, ording to him. Are you sure?¡± Inhee replied to his question, to which Aurus could not help but let out a long sigh.

    ¡°Fine, fine, fine. I ept the trial,¡± Aurus said with a slightly annoyed tone before adding, ¡°There better be good rewards in this trial.¡±

    ¡°As the Inheritance Ruler, how could I not give you rewards that are equivalent to your efforts?¡± Inhee said in response to Aurus¡¯s words in a cheerful tone. It then cleared its throat before continuing, ¡°Anyways, this trial isposed of three stages, just like what you took back then when you first entered the inheritance.¡±

    ¡°Well, let¡¯s not waste any time since it seems you¡¯re more or less ready to get this trial over with,¡± Inhee added a few secondster. It then continued, ¡°The first stage of this trial shall test your prowess in the element of Void. Namely, the infinite spaces it has.¡±

    ¡°And with that, the name of this stage is¡­¡±

    ¡°Myriad Void Dimensions.¡±

 Chapter 199: Is That All?

    Chapter 199: Is That All?

    ¡°Myriad Void Dimensions¡­¡± Listening to the name of the first stage, Aurus started thinking up of the mechanics of the stage, just like what he used to do when he was attempting the trials in this inheritance before he obtained a Ruler title. In a matter of an instant, multiple mechanics that seemed to resonate with the name of the stage had surfaced in Aurus¡¯s mind. All of the mechanics had differing instructions and goals, but one thing was for sure in his thoughts. The end goal of this stage was to escape something.

    ¡°Are you finished pondering on what mechanics this first stage has?¡± Inhee asked Aurus, who had just finished pondering over mechanics, with a teasing tone. In response to this, an aura of shock radiated from Aurus. Fortunately, just as Aurus was about to ask how Inhee knew about what he was doing before trials, Inhee took the initiative to answer the unspoken question, continuing, ¡°I¡¯m the Inheritance Ruler. If I don¡¯t even know what¡¯s going on in the mind of the inheritors before they take their trials, then how can I possibly call myself an Inheritance Ruler?¡±

    ¡°Anyways, since this trial was not something I created but rather by the Supreme Ruler of the Void, I¡¯ll tell you the mechanics and the way on how you could finish the trial as fast as possible,¡± Inhee soon added, to which Aurus radiated an aura of curiosity as he wondered if the mechanics he had in mind were the same as the real one.

    Taking in another deep breath, Inhee went ahead and exined the first stage to Aurus, saying, ¡°From the name itself, the stage ¡®Myriad Void Dimensions¡¯ is set on a ce with myriad dimensions made out of the Void element¡­if that wasn¡¯t obvious enough already. You start on one of the corners of this room, with the stage starting once you enter the Void Dimension in that corner. Inside it, you only have four choices in which direction you¡¯d like to move: forward, backward, leftward, and rightward.¡±

    Inhee then continued, ¡°Your goal is to reach the center of the myriad dimensions through the Void Dimension you entered. Once you reach the center of the myriad dimensions, you shall be teleported out of it, as well as marking you to be someone that has finished the first stage.¡±

    ¡®Hmm¡­this Myriad Void Dimensions stage is quite simr to the second stage of the trial I took here back then,¡¯ Aurus thought to himself as he listened to Inhee¡¯s words. ¡®Although there is no decision-making process when ites to the choices of movement I have, which makes it look like I would eventually get to the center of the myriad dimensions eventually, since I¡¯m being tested, there would definitely be a twist.¡¯

    ¡°To be honest, I was just getting to the twist,¡± Inhee said as it sighed after Aurus had finished thinking. It then added, ¡°As you¡¯ve said, it seems you like could go and move towards a random direction and you¡¯ll eventually reach the center of the myriad dimensions. Unfortunately, that¡¯s not the case, with three out of four directions leading towards a dimension filled with the intent of destruction, easily decimating your body to shreds.¡±

    ¡°In other words, if you don¡¯t rely on your control over the element of the Void through the title, you have to rely on your instincts if you wanna clear this stage unscathed,¡± Inhee continued before letting out a sigh. Aurus pondered over Inhee¡¯s words for a bit in silence, wondering if it was really worth doing this for a title. Eventually, he finished pondering, looking up at a certain direction and asking, ¡°Can I ask what the rewards are after I finish this stage? I need to have some incentive, you know.¡±

    ¡°Since the trial is something the Supreme Ruler of the Void made up, I¡¯ll allow you to choose any reward you want,¡± Inhee replied to Aurus¡¯s words, instantly stimting his imagination on what reward he could ask Inhee. Unfortunately for him, Inhee¡¯s next words crushed his hopes of asking for some incredibly powerful thing, saying, ¡°Of course, I have the right to say whether the reward you want is truly befitting for the current you. In other words, ask for a reward that is beyond your scope of power and I¡¯ll decline.¡±

    In response to that, Aurus let out a sigh inwardly before saying, ¡°Alright, alright. I get it. I won¡¯t ask for anything stupid.¡± He then said as an aura of seriousness emanated from him, ¡°Anyways, let¡¯s start the first stage.¡±

    ¡°Wise choice,¡± Inhee uttered as it lightly chuckled, instantly teleporting Aurus from where he was towards a corner of therge stone room he was in. A few secondster, a near incessant amount of ck spheres appeared in the stone room, originating from the center before spreading out towards the corners of the stone room. These spheres emitted an aura that was akin to the feeling of nothingness, with each sphere being the size of a decently sized boulder.

    Eventually, the spheres stopped spreading, with the sphere Aurus had to enter radiating an aura that said ¡®Enter here¡¯ as it appeared a decent distance away from him. While looking at the sphere, he could not help but notice a glistening star hover above the sphere, prompting him to ask Inhee, ¡°What¡¯s the star thing on top of the sphere, Inhee?¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s a sign that you¡¯ve entered the correct Void Dimension,¡± Inhee soon responded to Aurus¡¯s question before adding, ¡°It also has something to do with how you could clear the trial as fast as possible. At the very instant you enter the starting Void Dimension, everywhere you look will be covered in a shroud of darkness¡­except for the star at the top.¡±

    ¡°These Void Dimensions are actually transparent, allowing you to look at what is contained in the Void Dimensions surrounding yours. But since the safe ones do not contain anything while the dangerous ones contain a ck haze, there¡¯s more or less no difference between the two if you rely on your eyesight. The only way you¡¯ll find out that it¡¯s a safe one is when a star appears above it,¡± Inhee continued before saying, ¡°Now go. Go and clear this stage to prove the Supreme Ruler of the Void wrong.¡±

    Aurus then went closer to the sphere that had a star on top of it, feeling a suctioning forcee from the sphere not long after. Since he knew what was going to happen to him, he did not resist the suctioning force, signaling the start of the first stage as he had officially entered the Myriad Void Dimensions.

    ¡­

    In a ce incredibly far away from the Area 52 inheritance, a beautiful woman was sitting on a chair as an orb that showed an image of a glowing wooden sculpture entering a ck sphere floated in front of her. This woman wore a white robe that seemed to be too big for her, yet radiated an aura that seemed to fit the power she held. This woman was none other than Inhee, the Inheritance Ruler that was talking with Aurus before he entered the Myriad Void Dimensions.

    Step. Step. Step.

    While she was attentively looking at the orb, keeping an eye on Aurus¡¯s progress, her hearing had picked up the sound of faint footsteps gradually bing louder as it got closer to her, prompting her to look behind, a light smile on her face as she hastily recognized who was getting closer to her.

    ¡°To think that you¡¯de here out of your own ord, Supreme Ruler of the Void,¡± Inhee said with a light chuckle as her eyes were focused on the man that had finally arrived in front of her. This man, just like the title he held, wore clothes that seemed to have no dimension due to the sheer darkness of the fabric. Of course, just like how Inhee¡¯s robeplemented her aura, this man¡¯s clothesplemented the aura he radiated, an aura of nothingness.

    ¡°How¡¯s that Assistant Ruler of the Void doing, Inheritance Ruler?¡± the Supreme Ruler of the Void opened his mouth to ask Inhee, a dry yet deep voiceing out of it not long after. In response to this, Inhee hummed a simple tune for a while as she turned her head around to look back at the orb floating in front of her.

    ¡°Well, the Inanimate has just entered the Myriad Void Dimensions. Knowing your prowess over illusions very well, this Assistant Ruler of yours might just¡ª¡± While she responded to the Supreme Ruler of the Void¡¯s question with an answer that favored his side rather than Aurus¡¯s, Inhee¡¯s response was interrupted before she could finish, her mouth agape as she looked at what had happened through the orb. An expression of disbelief was written all over her face as she muttered, ¡°Impossible¡­¡±

    ¡°What¡¯s wrong, Inheritance Ruler?¡± the Supreme Ruler of the Void instantly felt the weird aura radiating from her, prompting him to ask her this question. In response to this, Inhee slowly turned her head around before saying, ¡°I don¡¯t know how it did it¡­but it passed through the Myriad Void Dimensions.¡±

    ¡°Are you serious?¡± the Supreme Ruler of the Void could not believe what he was hearing. He then went closer to Inhee, allowing him to see what was happening in the orb, leaving him speechless as well. He was about to tell the Inheritance Ruler to disqualify the Inanimate from the stage for cheating, but after looking a bit more closely, he found out that there was no way for him to do such a thing.

    ¡°Lighting up all of the stars at that sort of speed¡­¡± the Supreme Ruler of the Void muttered in disbelief. He then continued to mutter, saying, ¡°Does this Inanimate have all of the good luck in the world given to it or something? How can an Inanimate, a being that doesn¡¯t even have an incredibly strong soul like us, be able to clear such a confusing stage without making a mistake?¡±

    ¡°I have no clue at all,¡± Inhee replied to the Supreme Ruler of the Void¡¯s question before letting out a sigh. She then asked him, ¡°Do you really want this Inanimate to not have your title? What¡¯s your problem with the Inanimate anyway?¡±

    ¡°Well, the problem with the element it specializes in is the least of my problems,¡± the Supreme Ruler of the Void said before continuing, ¡°The main problem I have with the Inanimate¡­¡±

    ¡°Is its existence level.¡±

    ¡­

    Whoosh!

    A few secondster, just like what Inhee had said to him, Aurus was surrounded everywhere by a shroud of darkness, with only the star at the top being the other thing that he could see clearly other than his body. Oh, right. Theresa was something he could see clearly as well.

    It took a while for him to adapt to the pure darkness surrounding him, eventually letting out a sigh as he muttered, ¡°It seems Inhee was telling me the truth. Everywhere I look is pure darkness that I don¡¯t even have a smidgen of a clue as to what direction I should move.¡±

    ¡°Should I just go ahead and move in a random direction? I could just teleport back to this ce if I enter a Void Dimension that would kill me,¡± Aurus muttered to himself, only for him to realize what Theresa was currently doing. Surprisingly, while Aurus was talking to himself, Theresa moved from his left shoulder, distancing itself from him for a bit before taking a look at their surroundings as it closed its eyes, seemingly thinking about something.

    After a while, Theresa went back to Aurus¡¯s left shoulder, which was around the time where he was finished talking to himself. At the instant Theresa had returned to Aurus¡¯s left shoulder, it scratched its head for a bit before letting out a sigh of contentment, looking at Aurus with a gaze of slight excitement as it said, ¡°Master, I seem to have found out the truth regarding this Myriad Void Dimensions thing.¡±

    ¡°Hm?¡± Aurus¡¯s interest was instantly piqued, prompting him to ask Theresa, ¡°What do you mean by that?¡±

    ¡°Hmm¡­how should I exin this to Master¡­¡± Theresa muttered as it heard Aurus¡¯s question, eventually finding the right words to say as it replied, ¡°From what the voice had said before, there are only two types of Void Dimensions, right?¡±

    ¡°Yeah, the safe ones and the ones filled with the intent of destruction,¡± Aurus replied to Theresa¡¯s words, asking not long after, ¡°What about them?¡±

    ¡°There¡¯s nothing weird about the safe ones. I¡¯ve checked that once you enter them, a star manifests on top of them and that¡¯s it,¡± Theresa replied to Aurus¡¯s question. It then added, ¡°But there¡¯s something peculiar with the dangerous ones.¡±

    ¡°They do indeed have the intent of destruction that could easily destroy your body at any time, Master. But there¡¯s something more to them than just that,¡± Theresa said, increasing Aurus¡¯s level of curiosity as he said, ¡°Just tell me already, Theresa!¡±

    ¡°Master is really impatient but alright.¡± Theresa puffed its cheeks as a slight frown appeared on its face. It then let out a short sigh before saying, ¡°In actuality, the intent of destruction hidden in those Void Dimensions is only a strand or two. What¡¯s making up most of the pure darkness surrounding us, Master, is¡­¡±

    ¡°An illusion!¡±

    ¡°So? What are you trying to tell me?¡± Aurus replied to Theresa¡¯s words, slightly confused at what it was trying to convey. He then rummaged through his memories, wondering if what Theresa was trying to convey had something to do with a memory from his past. Fortunately, a memory that had a rtion to what Theresa was trying to convey had surfaced in his mind, allowing him to realize what Theresa was trying to say.

    ¡°[Penultimate Veridical Spirit]¡­does it have something to do with that?¡± Aurus asked Theresa, to which Theresa profusely nodded in response as it said, ¡°Exactly, Master! [Penultimate Veridical Spirit] is the fusion of [Undeceiving Sight], a far stronger version of [Illusion Nullification], and [Unified Soul Control], allowing Master to see through all lies without any difficulty!¡±

    ¡°If that¡¯s the case, then why is everything surrounding us is still pure darkness if I can see through all lies?¡± Aurus asked this question while wondering whether what Theresa was saying was the truth, to which Theresa replied, ¡°Of course, Master can activate or deactivate this skill at any time. All Master has to say is the phrase ¡®All falsehood shall be negated¡¯ and [Penultimate Veridical Spirit] will do everything else!¡±

    ¡°All falsehood shall be negated?¡± Aurus asked Theresa, only for a notification sound to respond to his question instead. A few secondster, a monotonous voice resounded in his mind, saying, ¡°[Penultimate Veridical Spirit] has been activated. All falsehood shall be negated in front of the user.¡±

    Whoosh!

    Not even a few secondster, the pure darkness that was surrounding Aurus had been reced with the clear sight of the walls of the stone room. Of course, if one looked closely, one could see a few hundred strands of dark energy roaming around in a fixed area, as if they were guarding something. Undergoing through a drastic change of what he was seeing, Aurus was left at a loss for words as he wondered as to what direction he should move to head towards the center of the myriad dimensions. Even though he could now see the center clearly, he still did not have any idea as to what direction he should move.

    ¡°Although my vision is now clear, I still don¡¯t have any idea as to what direction I should move to get there,¡± Aurus muttered, only for the monotonous voice in his mind to respond with, ¡°The intensity of the [Penultimate Veridical Spirit] has been adjusted. The path towards the center is now clear for the user.¡±

    Swoosh!

    Not long after the monotonous voice said that, a ck outline surrounded the spheres that seemed to lead the path towards the center of the myriad dimensions, leaving Aurus at a loss for words yet again as he could not believe that it was this easy to clear the first stage.

    Letting out a sigh of disbelief, he muttered to himself, ¡°Is this really all the first stage has in store?¡±

    After saying that, he then went ahead and moved through the outlined spheres, lighting up stars along the way as he made his way towards the center of the myriad dimensions.

 Chapter 200: One Shot

    Chapter 200: One Shot

    Whoosh!

    After reaching the center of the myriad dimensions, Aurus was soon transported to the outside of the myriad dimensions, his field of vision being covered by the sight of the multiple ck spheres not long after. Well¡­after activating [Penultimate Veridical Spirit], instead of looking at a field of spheres that spanned across the whole stone room he was in, instead, he was looking at a path of outlined spheres with stars on top that led towards the center of the myriad dimension.

    While looking at the current view in front of him, he recalled that Inhee could read all of his thoughts, so it might have known that Aurus had activated [Penultimate Veridical Spirit] to easily clear the stage. With that in mind, Aurus went ahead and softly muttered, ¡°All falsehood shall be negated,¡± a monotonous voice resounding in his mind not long after that the effects of [Penultimate Veridical Spirit] was deactivated.

    And so, with it being deactivated, the view in front of him had reverted to a field of ck spheres, all of which were radiating the aura of nothingness. After doing that, he then waited for Inhee to tell him that he had sessfully passed the first stage. A few seconds¡­half a minute¡­a couple of minutes¡­around ten minutes had passed by with Aurus waiting, obtaining no response from Inhee.

    ¡°Where could Inhee be?¡± Aurus questioned himself as he looked at Theresa, who was sitting on his left shoulder in a rxed manner, its vision focused on the ck spheres. After noticing that Aurus was looking at it, Theresa looked back at Aurus and shed a light smile. Just as he was about to lose his temper after the waiting, a voice finally resounded throughout the whole stone room as the field of ck spheres gradually disappeared, reverting the content inside therge stone room into what it previously was.

    ¡°How¡­did you clear the first stage so quickly?¡± this voice was none other than Inhee¡¯s, taking on a tone of shock, which slightly surprised Aurus as he listened to it. He pondered over Inhee¡¯s words, wondering if it knew that Aurus had activated a skill that allowed him to pass through the stage without a problem. From the tone of Inhee¡¯s voice, it seemed that there was a limit to how much information Inhee could read from Aurus¡¯s thoughts, prompting Aurus to tell a bit of the truth with lies mixed in.

    ¡°Er¡­I have a skill that gives me a chance to see through illusions,¡± Aurus replied to Inhee¡¯s question as he radiated an aura of slight hesitation. He then added, ¡°To be honest, I wasn¡¯t expecting the skill to work. I just tried it out as an experiment.¡±

    ¡°¡­¡± Hearing Aurus¡¯s answer, Inhee was left at a loss for words. She could not help but think, ¡®A skill that has a chance to negate all illusions¡­on an Inanimate being?¡¯ She then pondered over it a bit more, deciding to give up in the end as she let out a sigh, muttering, ¡°Well, it did clear the stage using its own power, so I guess I¡¯ll let it pass.¡±

    Inhee then let out a sigh as it resounded throughout the stone room, catching Aurus¡¯s attention, which was preupied after Inhee went silent. After attracting his attention, Inhee then said, ¡°Well, since you cleared the first stage, you can now go ahead and ask me for any reward you want. Remember, it has to be a reward that¡¯s more or less equivalent to the amount of power you hold right now.¡±

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡± Aurus pondered over Inhee¡¯s words, wondering what reward he should obtain from this inheritance. Fortunately, it did not take long for Aurus to make his decision as the reward he had in mind was rted to the reason why he entered the inheritance again in the first ce. Of course, he was also taking a bit of a risk here since he had the idea of obtaining a Comprehension Leaf that was of a higher grade than Transcending. Although he heard from Herellia that there were two grades of Comprehension Leaves higher than Transcending, would an inheritance like this have such a rare Comprehension Leaf?

    ¡°I¡¯ve decided,¡± Aurus said in a confident tone, suppressing the nervousness he felt within. He then added, ¡°The reward I want to get is a Comprehension Leaf with the highest grade in this inheritance.¡±

    Listening to Aurus¡¯s request, Inhee could not help but ask him, ¡°Are you sure that that¡¯s what you want? Not skills or anything?¡±

    ¡°Well, I did say that I needed more Comprehension Leaves to reach theprehension speed limit,¡± Aurus replied to Inhee¡¯s question. He then added, ¡°Do you have any?¡±

    ¡°Yeah, we do,¡± Inhee replied to Aurus¡¯s question, to which Aurus radiated an aura of tion as he was finally going to obtain a Comprehension Leaf that had a higher grade than Transcending. Amidst this tion was his intense curiosity as to what kind of feeling would a Comprehension Leaf of such grade would give him.

    Whoosh!

    After a few seconds, a leaf that seemed to radiate an aura akin to the birth of a universe had appeared a meter or so away from him. Unlike the Transcending Comprehension Leaf he had absorbed before, which took on the appearance of a dead leaf, this leaf¡¯s appearance had a bit of vibrance to it, taking on a shade of light green as multiple esoteric drawings were etched on its surface.

    As he looked at this leaf hovering in front of him, he could not help but have the urge to extend a tendril of FP towards it and absorb it in an instant. Thankfully, he did not let this urge get to him as he suppressed it as much as possible. With this urge suppressed, he wanted to know the details of the leaf in front of him, going ahead and asking Inhee, ¡°May I ask what grade of Comprehension Leaf is this?¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s the rarest kind of Comprehension Leaf we have in this inheritance,¡± Inhee replied to Aurus¡¯s question without dy. It then added, ¡°It¡¯s the grade after Transcending, the All-seeing Comprehension Leaf.¡±

    ¡°All-seeing Comprehension Leaf¡­¡± Aurus muttered while looking at the leaf in front of him, feeling that the name suited its appearance and aura. But now that he knew what came after Transcending, he had this urge to ask what grade came after All-seeing, to which he did not suppress as he asked not long after, ¡°Do you know whates after All-seeing, Inhee?¡±

    ¡°Yeah,¡± Inhee responded. ¡°I¡¯ve only taken one in my whole life, but the feeling you get from it is like living a million lives in a split-second.¡±

    Hearing that the feeling of the Comprehension Leaf after All-seeing was quite euphoric from the tone of Inhee¡¯s voice, Aurus¡¯s curiosity had intensified as he asked, ¡°What is it called?¡±

    ¡°All-knowing Comprehension Leaf,¡± Inhee replied to his question. ¡°It¡¯s the rarest type of Comprehension Leaf you could get from this continent.¡±

    ¡°I see¡­¡± Aurus said, only for his mind to fixate on thest words said by Inhee as he asked, ¡°Wait a second¡­rarest Comprehension Leaf in this continent? There are far rarer Comprehension Leaves in the other continents?¡±

    ¡°Yep,¡± Inhee said in response before adding, ¡°But knowing about them would probably be detrimental to you right now. Anyways, go ahead and absorb the Comprehension Leaf. I¡¯ll give you a 5-minute break before we start the second stage.¡±

    ¡°Alright,¡± Aurus replied to Inhee¡¯s words, eventually removing the suppression on his urges from before as arge tendril of FP moved towards the leaf hovering in front of him. It then enveloped the whole leaf before gradually dissolving it as its particles moved towards Aurus¡¯s body.

    Swish!

    At the instant a few particles of the All-seeing Comprehension Leaf was absorbed by Aurus¡¯s body, his field of vision had transformed in an instant, giving him the ability that he could see every single thing on this with a single nce. Their past, their present, their future, the things that make up their bodies, all of them could be seen with this single nce.

    Unfortunately for Aurus, this sensation had onlysted for a few seconds as his field of vision reverted to therge stone room as a notification sound resounded in his mind. Rather than a monotonous voice reading out the notification for him, Theresa was the one who read it and said, ¡°Congrattions, Master! You have absorbed an All-seeing Comprehension Leaf! Since the leaf you just absorbed is of a higher grade than the previous one, the full effect of this leaf has been absorbed, increasing Master¡¯sprehension speed by 20 times! Not to mention, the cap of Master¡¯sprehension speed has been increased to 40 times!¡±

    ¡°Eh?¡± Listening to Theresa¡¯s voice, Aurus was left in a state of slight confusion. The first thing about him obtaining an increase of 20 times was still understandable to him since Theresa said that it was a leaf that was a higher grade than the Transcending Comprehension Leaf he had absorbed back then. But 40 times? Didn¡¯t Herellia say the limit was 30?

    He then pondered over it and wondered why this was the case. Fortunately, it did not take a long time for Aurus to finally have an idea as to why, muttering to himself, ¡°I just noticed that with each consecutive grade of Comprehension Leaf I absorb, the limit to how muchprehension speed I can have increases by 10 times. In other words, the Soaring leaf would have a cap of 10 times, the Unshrouding leaf would have a cap of 20 times, the Transcending leaf a cap of 30, and the All-seeing leaf a cap of 40. If I continue with this pattern, then the All-knowing leaf would have a cap of 50.¡±

    ¡°After absorbing the All-seeing Comprehension Leaf, Master now has aprehension speed of 35 times! Not only that, but Master has also obtained a chance to break a skill¡¯s limit to a higher level!¡± Theresa continued amidst Aurus¡¯s muttering, attracting Aurus¡¯s attention in an instant as he asked, ¡°What do you mean by breaking a skill¡¯s limit?¡±

    In response to this question, Theresaughed as it replied, ¡°Master will only be able to use this chance once he maxes out a skill at the X-grade Transcendent level! I hope Master does his best and turns into someone that can use this chance!¡±

    ¡°X-grade Transcendent¡­¡± Aurus muttered, letting out a light chuckle as a small part of his n had changed due to this, saying, ¡°It seems I¡¯ll have to grind all of my skills to the X-grade Transcendent level.¡±

    ¡°Then again, I was nning to do that from the start anyway.¡±

    ¡­

    In a ce far away from the Area 52 Inheritance, Inhee was talking with the Supreme Ruler of the Void, letting out a sigh as she stood up from her chair.

    ¡°For now, I¡¯ve passed the Inanimate on the first stage,¡± Inhee said to the Supreme Ruler of the Void as she asked him, ¡°Anyways, what¡¯s the problem with its existence level?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s too low,¡± the Supreme Ruler of the Void did not hide anything in his reply. ¡°Shouldn¡¯t a Ruler be someone who has incredibly high strength and existence level? I could ept the fact that it has the Substitute Ruler of the Void title since it¡¯s an Inanimate, but after it has reached the Assistant Ruler of the Void level, I just feel like that Inanimate doesn¡¯t deserve it.¡±

    ¡°Although it doesn¡¯t have a high existence level, it does have a lot of strength for its existence level,¡± Inhee refuted the Supreme Ruler of the Void¡¯s words as she replied. She then added, ¡°From the aura it¡¯s radiating right now, you can tell easily that the power it has is being hampered by its low existence level.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re right, but¡­¡± the Supreme Ruler of the Void said in response to Inhee¡¯s words, eventually letting out a sigh. He then said, ¡°You know what? I¡¯m going to change the mechanics of the second stage.¡±

    ¡°Eh? You do know how much it costs to rece stages at thest minute, right?¡± Inhee asked him with a slight frown. In response, the Supreme Ruler of the Void waved his hand as he replied, ¡°No worries, I¡¯ll pay it after this. I¡¯m just tweaking the mechanics of this second stage a little bit to see if this Inanimate is truly worthy of its title.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m going to change the existence level of his enemies to a high Pseudo-Animate level,¡± the Supreme Ruler soon said as he added, ¡°If that Inanimate could pass through this stage, then I could ept the fact that it¡¯s worthy for the title.¡±

    ¡°Are you really sure?¡± Inhee said. ¡°You tend to change your mind quite a lot.¡±

    ¡°I mean what I say,¡± the Supreme Ruler of the Void uttered in response. ¡°Anyways, I¡¯ll send the changes to the second stage right now.¡±

    ¡°Fine, fine, fine,¡± Inhee muttered with a sigh as she sat back on her chair before gesturing with her hands, strands of energy extending from her fingertips soon after.

    ¡°Also, is it fine if the name of the second stage is changed?¡± the Supreme Ruler of the Void asked Inhee.

    In response, Inhee let out an annoyed sigh as she asked, ¡°What¡¯s the new name of the second stage then?¡±

    The Supreme Ruler of the Void pondered over the question for a bit before saying with a grin, ¡°One Shot.¡±

    ¡°One Shot¡­¡±

    ¡°Is that a reference to you when you¡¯re having fun with women?¡±

    ¡°Shut up.¡±

 Chapter 201: Pure Destruction

    Chapter 201: Pure Destruction

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    With strands of energy connecting Inhee¡¯s fingertips and the orb, a massive amount of information was sent to the inheritance Aurus was in without a problem. Of course, that was all due to Inhee¡¯s expertise in managing inheritances, only taking a couple of minutes for the changes the Supreme Ruler of the Void wanted to be finished.

    After doing what she was paid to do, Inhee let out a long sigh as she dispelled the strands of energy on her fingertips, turning her head around to look at the Supreme Ruler of the Void before asking, ¡°Is that suitable to your tastes?¡±

    ¡°More than suitable,¡± the Supreme Ruler of the Void said in a slightly joyous tone. He thenughed in a low tone as he muttered, ¡°Hehehe. With a mechanic like this, would you even be able to clear this stage, Inanimate?¡±

    Just as the Supreme Ruler of the Void was going to continueughing, Inhee poked him on the arm, interrupting his ns as he asked her, ¡°What?¡±

    She then extended her left hand outward as the Supreme Ruler of the Void was on her left, opening her palm as she said, ¡°Payment for the hasty recement.¡±

    ¡°Haah¡­fine.¡± As the Supreme Ruler of the Void let out a short sigh, he snapped his fingers as a small rift appeared a couple of meters above Inhee¡¯s opened palm, a small satchelnding precisely on it not long after. As the rift was closed, Inhee went ahead and checked the contents of the satchel, a smile stered on her face as she looked at the Supreme Ruler of the Void like a treasure chest as she said, ¡°You truly pay me the best out of the other Rulers, Supreme Ruler of the Void. After this, wanna go and grab a bite?¡±

    ¡°Sure,¡± the Supreme Ruler of the Void responded to her question before letting out a chuckle that gradually took on a lecherous tone. ¡°After grabbing a bite, wanna¡ª¡±

    ¡°No thanks,¡± Inhee interrupted him before he could finish his question. ¡°Our rtionship isn¡¯t even that close, One Shot.¡±

    ¡°Fine, fine,¡± the Supreme Ruler of the Void said as he shrugged his shoulders. He then focused his attention towards the orb before saying, ¡°Anyways, don¡¯t you think you¡¯ve given the Inanimate enough time to rest?¡±

    ¡°Ah, right,¡± Inhee said in response. After that, she then focused her attention on therge stone room.

    ¡­

    Within therge stone room.

    ¡°Your 5-minute break is now over, Aurus,¡± Inhee said, slightly startling Aurus as he was talking about things regarding the system with Theresa. Nheless, these words attracted Aurus¡¯s attention in an instant, focusing his sense of hearing towards Inhee¡¯s next words.

    ¡°We shall now be starting the next stage,¡± Inhee uttered as the area of therge stone room had increased to a great degree in an instant. Looking at the expanded stone room he was in, Aurus could not help but calcte how much it has expanded, eventuallying to the figure that the area that the stone room had right now was equivalent to about 9 stone rooms from before.

    ¡°What¡¯s the next stage about?¡± Aurus asked Inhee after the expansion, to which Inhee responded, ¡°The second stage is about killing as many enemies in one shot. That¡¯s also why the name of this next stage is One Shot.¡±

    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!

    After Inhee was finished talking, arge number of beings appeared around where Aurus was, surrounding his field of vision with the sight of a being that was quite simr in appearance to Horell. The bodies of the beings were akin to Horell¡¯s, being made out of energy, but the shape of their body was more or less akin to a pir. In other words, Aurus was surrounded by a ton of pirs.

    Just as Aurus was about to ask the specific mechanics of this second stage, Inhee was one step ahead of him, exining as it said, ¡°Right now, you¡¯re surrounded by a ton of pirs. To be more exact, you¡¯re surrounded by 1,000,000 pirs. You might be wondering, after what I said a while ago, I just have to try and destroy as much of the pirs surrounding me, right?¡±

    Even before Aurus could answer Inhee¡¯s question, Inhee continued with its words, saying, ¡°Well, with that kind of mindset, you¡¯re half-correct. You indeed have to destroy as much of the pirs surrounding you as possible. But¡­you have to at least destroy 10,000 pirs with a single move or else you won¡¯t pass the second stage. Now, you¡¯re wondering, it wouldn¡¯t be that hard to destroy these pirs, right?¡±

    And yet again, just as Aurus was about to answer back, Inhee did not even let him do so, continuing, ¡°And that¡¯s where you¡¯re wrong. Each pir surrounding is a Pseudo-Animate at the Epic grade. Not to mention, the stats of these pirs are all at 1¡­except for their Defense. Other than that, it¡¯s pretty straightforward. There are no tips or tricks to clearing this. You just have to hit them with your strongest attack.¡±

    After this, Inhee went silent, finally allowing Aurus to talk. With him not being interrupted by Inhee anymore, he then asked it, ???Although I used to have a lot of questions a while ago, most of it was answered by your exnation. There¡¯s one question in my mind that you haven¡¯t answered with your exnation though.¡±

    ¡°And what question might that be?¡± Inhee asked, to which Aurus responded, ¡°How many Power Baptisms have these pirs undergone?¡±

    To Aurus, the difference of a single Power Baptism would make this stage harder for him to clear. When a Pseudo-Animate hasn¡¯t undergone any Power Baptism, a single stat of theirs is equivalent to 1000 points of an Inanimate¡¯s. But when they clear a single Power Baptism, that factor increases by ten times, with a single stat of theirs now being equivalent to 10,000 points of an Inanimate¡¯s. If a Pseudo-Animate had undergone two Power Baptisms, their stats would be just as powerful as a normal Animate. That¡¯s the reason why Aurus had asked this question.

    ¡°Oh?¡± Inhee¡¯s interest was piqued by Aurus, making it wonder where he had heard of such a term. Nevertheless, Inhee suppressed this urge to know as it replied, ¡°Although I¡¯m quite curious as to where you¡¯ve heard of such a term, these Pseudo-Animates have not undergone any Power Baptism yet.¡±

    ¡°I see,¡± Aurus said, inwardly letting out a sigh of relief. Although he did not know how much defense these pirs had, with him knowing that these Pseudo-Animates had not undergone any Power Baptisms, he was now a bit more confident in clearing this stage with his power.

    ¡°These pirs won¡¯t attack you while you¡¯re charging up your attack, so don¡¯t worry about being attacked and just give it your all,¡± Inhee said a whileter before adding, ¡°If you don¡¯t destroy at least 10,000 pirs within 30 minutes, you would be stripped of your title.¡±

    ¡°Good luck.¡± And with that, Inhee went silent, leaving Aurus in a slightly annoyed mood as he let out a sigh, muttering, ¡°You know, knowing that there¡¯s a time limit doesn¡¯t really feel good.¡±

    But then, he let out a light chuckle as he radiated an aura of confidence before saying, ¡°Then again, I have a feeling I¡¯ll clear the stage far before time is up anyway.¡±

    After saying that, he then went ahead and focused his sense of vision towards a single pir before muttering, ¡°System, identify this being in front of me.¡±

    Ding!

    Apanied by a notification sound, a holographic screen that listed the stats of a single pir had appeared in front of his field of vision not long after. He skimmed through it, eventually saying, ¡°I kind of like the fact that the Defense stat is an exact number. But if I convert it to Inanimate stats, I need to have enough strength to pierce through¡­a million points of Defense.¡±

    ________

    [Super Duper Defense Pir]

    Species: Super Duper Defense Pir

    Existence Level: Pseudo-Animate

    Grade: Epic

    Power Baptism: None

    ¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª

    [HP]: 1/1

    [MP]: 1/1

    ¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª

    Stats:

    Vitality ¨C 1

    Strength ¨C 1

    Defense ¨C 1,000

    Agility ¨C 1

    Intelligence ¨C 1

    ________

    As he pondered over what he was going to do to have enough strength to destroy the pirs, he could not help but wonder how high his Attack stat is after what he had been through. With that in mind, he focused his sense of vision towards Theresa as he closed the holographic screen, asking it, ¡°Theresa, could you show me my HP, FP, as well as my stats?¡±

    ¡°Sure thing, Master!¡± Theresa hastily replied to Aurus, a slightly corporeal screen appearing in front of his field of vision not long after.

    Whoosh!

    At the very instant the screen had appeared in front of his field of vision, Aurus went ahead and hastily skimmed through it, only to be left at a loss for words as he forced himself to ask Theresa, ¡°Are you sure¡­these are¡­my stats?¡±

    ¡°Indeed, it is, Master! That¡¯s your stats, calcted by the Transcending Existence System millions of times to make sure there¡¯s no margin of error!¡± Theresa replied in a cheerful tone, increasing Aurus¡¯s level of disbelief as he looked at his stats.

    Yes, he was feeling intense disbelief at how high his stats had be.

    ________

    [Aurus]

    ¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª

    [HP]: 2,032,998/2,032,998

    [FP]: 239,903/239,903

    ¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª

    [Tenacity]: 46,332

    [Vitality]: 84,942

    [Spirit]: 243,507

    ________

    ¡°240,000 Attack¡­¡± Aurus felt the most disbelief when he was looking at his Attack stat. His Attack stat was so high that it¡¯s more or less six times as high as his Defense stat. ¡°Am I a ss cannon or something?¡±

    Eventually, Aurus epted that these were his stats, letting out a soft sigh as hemanded Theresa, ¡°Could you convert these stats to Pseudo-Animate terms? A Pseudo-Animate that hasn¡¯t undergone a Power Baptism, to be specific.¡±

    ¡°As you wish, Master!¡± Theresa soon replied to Aurus¡¯s question, hastily changing the values on the slightly corporeal screen in front of Aurus to smaller values. Although he let out a sigh of relief after his stats had changed its value, it was more or less due to the conversion factor. Looking at the current Attack stat on the slightly corporeal screen in front of him, he still needed 757 points of Attack to destroy a pir.

    And that was just one pir.

    Of course, that did not mean that Aurus needed another 757 points to destroy two pirs at the same time. He just had to increase his attack to a high enough level for him to be able to send an attack with a wide area of effect that would surely fulfill what he needed.

    Then again, Aurus already knew what he had to do in order to bridge the gap in terms of attack. With this in mind, he looked at Theresa and told her, ¡°Theresa, minimize the screen in front of me to where I could only see the Attack stat. Keep the same conversion. Also, when [Supreme Deification] reaches the maximum level, evolve it as fast as possible.¡±

    Noticing the serious aura radiating from Aurus, Theresa responded to him in a serious tone as it hastily manipted the slightly corporeal screen in front of Aurus¡¯s field of vision, saying, ¡°As you wish, Master. I¡¯ve adjusted the size of the screen and moved it to where it wouldn¡¯t block Master¡¯s view.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ve also enabled the automatic evolution of [Supreme Deification] for now,¡± Theresa added, to which Aurus only replied with one word.

    ¡°Good.¡±

    ¡°[Supreme Deification].¡±

    Whoosh!

    In an instant, the aura radiating from Aurus had intensified by multiple times, giving him the feeling that he had the power to destroy mountains and rivers with a single move. Of course, this was just a feeling and not the real effect of the skill, with the real effect of the skill being quantified as Aurus looked at his current Attack stat.

    [Spirit]: 1,464.

    A few secondster, Theresa¡¯s voice could be heard near Aurus, saying, ¡°[Supreme Deification] has evolved to B-grade Mortal level!¡±

    Hearing those words, he took a look at the Spirit stat once more, noticing that it has increased by over a hundred points. What Aurus was doing right now, since there was still a lot of time, was increasing the grade of [Supreme Deification] to a decent enough level. He was solely relying on his greatly improvedprehension speed right now, hoping that it wouldn¡¯t take a long time for the skill to reach a decent enough grade while waiting.

    Of course, he was not idling around, just waiting for [Supreme Deification] before he made a move. In the off-chance that there were only a few seconds left before he could unleash an attack, he was now preparing his attack beforehand, conjuring a hundred swords around his body before congregating it over his head.

    Whoosh!

    ¡°To think that the ultimate art [Lucifer¡¯s w of Damnation] would be a normal move in [Spellswords of Ruination],¡± Aurus muttered as he let out a chuckle, focusing his sense of vision towards the congregation of swords as Theresa told him that [Supreme Deification] had reached A-grade Mortal level.

    With the swords now congregated over his head, he then manipted every one of them to fuse as one, transforming into a giant w made out of swords. This w radiated an aura that it came from the underworld¡­as if this w came from Lucifer himself.

    ¡°This is the first time I¡¯ve used such a skill, but the power it exudes might be more than enough for me to kill Chonk by myself without a problem,¡± Aurus muttered as he stabilized the w made out of swords with his FP. A couple of minutester, Theresa told him that [Supreme Deification] had reached S-grade Mortal level, his Attack stat now close to 2,000 points.

    It was then that he decided to stop waiting for the next evolution after [Supreme Deification] reaches X-grade Mortal level, thinking that it was enough of a boost as long as he used that skill. And so, with that in mind, Aurus waited for a few more minutes, with Theresa eventually telling him, ¡°Master! [Supreme Deification] has reached X-grade Mortal level!¡±

    ¡°Cancel the automatic evolution, Theresa,¡± Aurus told Theresa, to which Theresa hastily responded as it replied, ¡°Automatic evolution has been disabled, Master!¡±

    ¡°Alright then,¡± Aurus said with a chuckle. Just as he was about to activate the skill he had in mind, a stray thought in his mind took over his whole train of thought, prompting him to ask Theresa, ¡°Theresa, how many times can I amplify my stats before my body implodes from the power?¡±

    This thought came into his mind after remembering a yer in ISE that relied on active buffs that increased his stats. One day, that yer went ahead and activated all of his active buffs, increasing his stats to an unimaginable level for someone at his existence level¡­only for his body to explode in an array of various colors. After that, he lost all progress on his ount, forcing him to start all over again.

    Of course, Aurus knew that his current life wasn¡¯t a game, so if he amplified his stats too much, he would surely die from the implosion of such power. And with that, Theresa replied to Aurus¡¯s question, saying, ¡°Master¡¯s body can only hold an amplification of 100 times at most before Master¡¯s HP is constantly decreased.¡±

    ¡°I see,¡± Aurus said as he brought up the description of [Supreme Deification] while making sure that the w made out of swords was still together. After closing it, he then brought up the description of [Dark Universal de], letting out a slightly crazed chuckle as he closed it, muttering, ¡°A factor of 72 times¡­I wonder if I could fight an Animate with that much power?¡±

    ¡°[Dark Universal de]!¡± After checking through the descriptions of those skills, he then activated the skill that hest checked up on, amplifying the aura surrounding him to an outstanding degree. Not only that, but since Aurus¡¯s Attack stat had greatly increased, the power held by the w made out of swords had increased as well, giving off the aura that it was not just Lucifer¡¯s w that was in thisrge stone room, but instead, the ws of all of the great demons in the underworldbined.

    Aurus had a hunch that the power imbued within the w made out of swords was more than enough for him to destroy at least 10,000 pirs. After taking a look at the small screen that showed his current Attack stat, this belief was more solidified, prompting him to manipte the w as it moved towards the pirs in a circr fashion.

    [Spirit]: 17,568.

    ¡°[Spellswords of Ruination]¡­¡±

    ¡°[Hundred Sword Embodiment]¡­¡±

    ¡°[Lucifer¡¯s Wrathful w]!¡±

    ¡­

    ¡­

    Bang!

 Chapter 202: A Heartfelt Fight

    Chapter 202: A Heartfelt Fight

    Bang!

    At the very instant the w made out of swords had touched the pirs, due to the great amount of power imbued in the w, the pirs¡¯ defense was more or less akin to paper as their pir shape had been destroyed. What remained after the collision between w and pir were only remnants of energy that could be attributed to the ¡®strong¡¯ pirs from before.

    Then again, the power imbued in the w was more than enough to create a shockwave as it collided with the pirs, destroying the pirs in its surroundings through the shockwave it has formed. Surprisingly, the number of pirs destroyed by the shockwave was more than the number of pirs destroyed by the w directly colliding with them.

    Nheless, after looking at the destruction caused by the w, it was evident that Aurus had sessfully passed the second stage, even exceeding quite a bit at that. After the w he had conjured had dissipated into thin air, Aurus deactivated both of the status boosting skills he had activated beforehand while he told Theresa to remove the small screen that showed his Attack stat.

    Whoosh!

    Not long after doing those things, the remaining pirs, which haven¡¯t been destroyed by either the w or the shockwave from the w, gradually dissipated into thin air as the area of the stone room had reverted to its original area when Aurus had first appeared in this room.

    As he looked at what was happening, Aurus could not help but say in awe, ¡°I¡¯m surprised how the inheritance can clean things like that up in a matter of an instant.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m more surprised at how powerful you truly are, Aurus,¡± a voice said not long after Aurus, slightly startling Aurus as it took a while for him to recognize who was talking. Realizing who it was, Aurus said, ¡°You startled me there, Inhee.¡±

    ¡°Anyways, how many pirs did I destroy?¡± After calming himself down from the slight startle, Aurus went ahead and asked Inhee this question with an aura of intense curiosity radiating from him. In response to this question, Inhee took a deep breath before saying, ¡°You¡¯ve destroyed about 5 times as many pirs whenpared to the minimum number needed to destroy.¡±

    ¡°In other words¡­?¡± From what Inhee was saying, Aurus was now sure that he had exceeded the minimum number of pirs needed to be destroyed. But what he wanted to know was the exact number of pirs he had destroyed, which Inhee fortunately answered not long after, satiating his curiosity.

    ¡°¡­49,704 pirs. You¡¯ve destroyed 49,704 pirs,¡± Inhee said before muttering to itself, ¡°What a monster. An Inanimate that has enoughbat power to even rival Animates¡­for every being that was like that, an era of change would surely follow.¡±

    ¡°Would a new era arise due to this Inanimate right here?¡± Inhee could not help but ask itself this question, letting out a sigh as it decided that there was no point thinking about the future since it could not even look into the future.

    After pondering over those things, Inhee went ahead and asked the ted Aurus, ¡°Since you¡¯ve exceeded the minimum requirement for clearing this second stage, you can choose a reward that exceeds your current power slightly. What will you choose?¡±

    Hearing this question, Aurus, who was surprised and ted that he had destroyed that many pirs, snapped back to the situation at hand as he pondered over what reward he was going to get. Surprisingly, it did not take long for Aurus to choose a reward this time as well, saying, ¡°An All-seeing Comprehension Leaf would probably be the reward I ask for again, to be honest. I just want to max out myprehension speed.¡±

    ¡°Seriously?¡± Inhee could not help but ask Aurus. It then added, ¡°I could give you ess to as much All-seeing Comprehension Leaves as you want to max out yourprehension speed, but you still have enough merit to ask for another reward, you know.¡±

    It then asked, ¡°Are you sure you only need Comprehension Leaves? Don¡¯t you need skills? Experience points? Things like that?¡±

    ¡°Experience points¡­¡± After hearing that he could obtain experience points as a reward from what seemed to be an impromptu trial, Aurus quickly made his choice, telling Inhee, ¡°Then¡­I want ess to as much All-seeing Comprehension Leaves as I want. As for the remaining merit I have, please convert all of it to experience points I can use.¡±

    ¡°Finally,¡± Inhee said before letting out a sigh. It then said, ¡°Give me a few moments to prepare the rewards for you. For now, you can take a break.¡±

    ¡°Alright,¡± Aurus said in response before recalling the sensation he felt while he had his Attack stat amplified by a factor of 72. At the instant he had activated [Dark Universal de], there was a faint feeling inside his body that he was going to implode due to the power, but that¡¯s all. Only a faint feeling. At the moment, he was wondering how he, who had activated all of his status boosting buffs back when he was doing a fusion attack with Fenrir and Charisa, hade out unscathed after that.

    With that in mind, he then went ahead and asked Theresa this question, to which Theresa replied with a light smile, ¡°The answer to that is simple, Master. Although Master¡¯s limit is 100 times the normal stats, for Charisa and Fenrir, who have both reached X-grade, their limit is 500 times the normal stats. In other words, after your amplification multiplier went over your limit, due to what you three were doing, the excess stats went towards Charisa and Fenrir.¡±

    Aurus repeated this answer in his mind a few times to process the answer, eventually understanding what Theresa was trying to say. He then asked Theresa, ¡°In other words, if I don¡¯t do a fusion attack with Fenrir and Charisa while I activate all of my status boosting buffs, I would inevitably die.¡±

    ¡°Best case scenario, a constant decrease of HP. Worst case scenario, instant death,¡± Theresa replied to Aurus¡¯s question in a slightlyforting tone. In response to Theresa¡¯s words, Aurus let out a sigh of relief. After indirectly knowing that evolving to X-grade increases the limit of amplification by a factor of 5, Aurus felt the increased need to evolve to X-grade as soon as possible.

    ¡°I¡¯m back.¡± Coincidentally, after Aurus found out about those things, Inhee was finally finished preparing the rewards as three All-seeing Comprehension Leaves appeared in front of Aurus¡¯s field of vision not long after. After that, Inhee went ahead and said, ¡°After absorbing one Comprehension Leaf out of the three in front of you, another Comprehension Leaf would appear in its ce. As for the experience points you asked for¡­¡±

    Ding!

    A few secondster, a notification sound resounded in Aurus¡¯s mind as Theresa told Aurus, ¡°Master, you have obtained 80,000,000 experience points.¡±

    ¡°80,000,000 experience points¡­¡± Aurus repeated Theresa¡¯s words, a chuckle resounding from him not long after as he said, ¡°I see, I see. I don¡¯t have to resort to the back-up ns, then.¡±

    After that, Aurus went ahead and extended a tendril of FP towards one of the All-seeing Comprehension Leaves in front of him and dissolved it. As he retracted this tendril back, an All-seeing Comprehension Leaves appeared in the ce of the Comprehension Leaf he had just absorbed, making him wonder how it worked.

    Whoosh!

    Of course, after absorbing an All-seeing Comprehension Leaf, Aurus¡¯s field of vision had transformed, allowing Aurus to see everything and anything with a single nce. Unfortunately,pared to before, this sensation had onlysted for less than a second before Aurus¡¯s field of vision reverted to the sight of the three Comprehension Leaves and the walls of therge stone room.

    Ding!

    Surprisingly, just as Theresa was telling him about the effects of the Comprehension Leaf he had just absorbed, a notification sound had resounded before Theresa started talking, prompting Aurus to think that there was something different in this absorption.

    ¡°Congrattions, Master! You have absorbed an All-seeing Comprehension Leaf! Unfortunately, since you¡¯ve absorbed a Comprehension Leaf of the same grade before, the effects of the leaf have been reduced, only increasing yourprehension speed by 5 times. Fortunately for Master, you have reached the limit forprehension speed, which is 40 times the normalprehension speed!¡± Theresa said.

    ¡°Not only that, but since Master has reached the limit forprehension speed, you have also obtained the active Species skill [Instant Comprehension]! In exchange for Master¡¯s stats, Master can instantly max out a skill to its maximum level!¡± Theresa added, with thest few lines attracting Aurus¡¯s attention.

    ¡°A skill that would allow me to max out a skill in exchange for my stats? That¡¯s a first,¡± Aurus muttered to himself, pondering on how useful this skill to him was. Surprisingly, it did not take long for Aurus to realize that this skill was not beneficial to him since as an Inanimate, the only way he would be able to obtain stats is through levels and evolution.

    Of course, with that in mind, he thought about another being as well, who might benefit from this skill even more than him, prompting him to ask Theresa, ¡°Can I transfer [Instant Comprehension] to Argentum?¡±

    Indeed, Argentum was the one in his mind when he thought about [Instant Comprehension]. Since Argentum was aiming to be a Super Animate, after reaching the Animate level, he would have a ton of ways to increase his stats without relying on the Tempering and Ascending skill, allowing him to use the skill without any problem.

    Unfortunately for Aurus, it seemed that he was barred from transferring the skill as Theresa said, ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Master. I cannot transfer [Instant Comprehension] to your second body¡­¡±

    Just as Aurus thought that that was indeed the case, after hearing Theresa¡¯s next few words, his aura of slight mncholy had transformed into that of tion.

    ¡°¡­since Argentum has already obtained it through [Reward Sharing]!¡±

    ¡°Good to know, good to know,¡± Aurus said before chuckling. Not long after that, he then looked up at the ceiling of the stone room and shouted, ¡°Inhee, I¡¯ve already maxed out myprehension speed. Surprisingly, it only took me a single leaf to max it out. You can take it away now.¡±

    ¡°Alright.¡± Hearing Aurus shouting for its name, Inhee soon responded and removed the Comprehension Leaves that were hovering in front of him. Not long after, Inhee then said, ¡°I¡¯ll let you have a 10-minute break for now. I¡¯m sure you¡¯ve used up quite a bit of energy in that skill.¡±

    In response to this, Aurus radiated an aura of affirmation before going ahead and recuperating his energy.

    ¡­

    In a ce far away from the Area 52 inheritance, both Inhee and the Supreme Ruler of the Void looked at the attack Aurus had unleashed through the orb. In an instant, their mouths had turned agape as they could not believe that such a small looking Inanimate packed that much power within it.

    ¡°I told you, that Inanimate may have a low existence level, but the power it has is more than enough for it to be worthy of the title,¡± Inhee said to the Supreme Ruler of the Void beside her. She then added, ¡°Don¡¯t you think it¡¯s cool for a being under the Supreme Ruler of the Void to be an Inanimate that has the power of an Animate? Wouldn¡¯t that give you immense bragging rights?¡±

    In response to this, the Supreme Ruler of the Void was silent, looking at the aftermath of the attack of the Inanimate. He also listened to Inhee¡¯s words in silence, pondering over something while he looked at the Inanimate in the orb. Eventually, he opened his mouth, letting out a sigh as he said, ¡°You really can¡¯t judge a book by its cover.¡±

    ¡°It seems I¡¯ve be fickle-minded after living in a secluded ce for over 50,000 years,¡± the Supreme Ruler of the Void said beforeughing with a hint of mockery in it. Unsurprisingly, this hint of mockery was directed at himself. He then added, ¡°An Inanimate that has the power of an Animate. I wonder how far such a being can go in the grand scheme of power?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m incredibly curious as well, to be honest,¡± Inhee said in response to the Supreme Ruler of the Void¡¯s words. ¡°When monstrous Inanimates like these are born, they tend to bring a change in the bnce of the world, ushering in a new era of power.¡±

    She then looked at the Supreme Ruler of the Void¡¯s face and said, ¡°Do you think this Inanimate can do so?¡±

    ¡°There¡¯s only one way to find out, to be honest.¡± As the Supreme Ruler of the Void responded, a slight smile was stered on his face, giving Inhee a bad feeling. It did not take long for the bad feeling to manifest as the Supreme Ruler of the Void asked her, ¡°Can you let me take charge of the third stage this time? You can take the energy I used up for the third stage as payment.¡±

    ¡°Well¡­¡± Inhee pondered over the question for a while, eventually nodding her head as she responded, ¡°Alright then. The energy you have is quite pure anyway. Then again, all of your energy would go towards the creation of Area 68 in the Valerion continent.¡±

    She then went ahead and stood up from her chair, allowing the Supreme Ruler of the Void to sit in front of the orb where Inhee was manipting the inheritance. The Supreme Ruler of the Void then went ahead and gestured with his hands, sending multiple strands of his own energy towards the inheritance as he said, ¡°Could you go and talk to the Inanimate before the third stage starts. It might be shocked after finding out that the one it was talking to has abruptly changed.¡±

    ¡°I can do that,¡± Inhee responded to him, only to follow up with a question, ¡°Anyways, what are you trying to do?¡±

    ¡°As I¡¯ve said, there¡¯s only one way to find out if that Inanimate can bring a change in the world,¡± the Supreme Ruler of the Void responded to Inhee¡¯s question with a grin.

    ¡°I just have to fight with it.¡±

 Chapter 203: Surprise Me!

    Chapter 203: Surprise Me!

    ¡°What do you mean you just have to fight with it?¡± Inhee could not help but think that the Supreme Ruler of the Void¡¯s idea was incredibly preposterous. ¡°The gap between that thing¡¯s existence level and your current existence level is akin to an ant facing against a ck hole! You¡¯re a True Saint-level being, you know? Why aren¡¯t you acting like one? Are you seriously going to use your overwhelming advantage in stats and pummel the shit out of a measly Inanimate?¡±

    ¡°I know my limits, Inhee. I just didn¡¯t tell you what I had in mind,¡± the Supreme Ruler of the Void responded to Inhee¡¯s question, letting out a sigh not long after. As he continued to manipte multiple strands of energy that connected with the orb in front of him, the Supreme Ruler of the Void decided to exin to Inhee what he meant by fighting with the Inanimate.

    ¡°At the start of the third stage, I¡¯ll set mybat power to a Rank 3 Animate since that seems to be the maximum power the Inanimate could muster while it attacked the pirs in the second stage,¡± the Supreme Ruler of the Void said to her. He then added, ¡°If the Inanimate reveals some tricks up its sleeve, allowing it to overwhelm me, then I¡¯ll adjust mybat power to be on an equal level against the Inanimate. I continue to do this until the Inanimate reaches the ultimate limit of its power, allowing me to gauge whether such an Inanimate can truly bring change to the world.¡±

    ¡°Ah, finally done,¡± the Supreme Ruler of the Void said not long after, a light smile was stered on his face. While he retracted the strands of energy he connected to the orb, he looked at the standing Inhee and said, ¡°I¡¯ve done my preparations for the third stage. Tell the Inanimate that the third stage is about fighting an incarnation of myself.¡±

    ¡°Okay.¡± Inhee nodded at his words, sending a strand of energy towards the orb that connected her to it. Just as she was about to talk to the Inanimate in the orb, Inhee looked at the Supreme Ruler of the Void and asked, ¡°Now that I think about it, what¡¯s the name of the third stage? I always tell the Inanimate the name of the stages before starting, so you bettere up with a decent one.¡±

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡± The Supreme Ruler of the Void soon pondered over a name that would fit what he was going to do, eventuallying up with a decent one as he told her, ¡°The name of the third stage shall be¡­¡±

    ¡°A Heartfelt Fight.¡±

    ¡°¡­¡± In response to his suggestion, Inhee was left at a loss for words since to her, the name of the third stage radiated a different feeling. Fortunately, she understood what the Supreme Ruler of the Void was referring to since she had an idea of the mechanics of the third stage. Then again, she could not help but tease him over his bad naming sense.

    ¡°What a shitty name. It sounds like the title of a shitty romance-action novel.¡±

    ¡°It takes time toe up with a good name, okay? I don¡¯t know how you make good names so quickly, but it takes a long time for me to think up of one,¡± the Supreme Ruler of the Void responded to her words in a tone that made it sound like he was being wronged. Not long after, he said with a sigh, ¡°Just roll with it, okay?¡±

    ¡°Fine, fine. You paid me to do this anyway,¡± Inhee responded to the Supreme Ruler of the Void¡¯s statement with a teasingugh, eventually starting to talk with the Inanimate in the orb.

    ¡­

    Within therge stone room.

    ¡°Your 10-minute break is now up, Aurus,¡± Inhee¡¯s voice resounded throughout the room, startling Aurus all of a sudden. In response to Inhee¡¯s abrupt voice, Aurus looked up at the ceiling and said, ¡°To be honest, it doesn¡¯t feel like 10 minutes have passed.¡±

    Hearing this, Inhee answered back with, ¡°Your perception of time in this ce has just dulled. On the outside, ten minutes have already passed. For you to tell me this, do you have some sort of clock inside you or something?¡±

    ¡°Fine, fine, fine. The ten minutes are up, I get it,¡± Aurus said in response to Inhee¡¯s words while being inwardly surprised. The reason why he was inwardly surprised was that after Inhee told Aurus that he was going to get a ten-minute break, he went ahead andmanded Theresa to set a timer for ten minutes as he conditioned himself for the next stage¡­or rather, thought about what he was going to do next after clearing this impromptu trial. In actuality, only 7 minutes had passed since Aurus¡¯s break started, which was why he told Inhee that he did not get a 10-minute break.

    Either way, he had already recuperated his losses from the second stage, which was arge amount of energy. Since he was back at his peak condition, and the Inheritance Ruler wanted him to go ahead with the next stage ahead of time, he decided to just go along with it.

    ¡°So¡­what¡¯s the third stage about?¡± Aurus could not help but ask Inhee, to which Inhee promptly responded, ¡°Well¡­let¡¯s just say that this stage is very unique whenpared to the previous two.¡±

    Whoosh!

    In an instant, the area of the stone room had expanded to what it was in the second stage, being 9rge stone roomsbined. But instead of having a million Pseudo-Animate pirs surrounding Aurus, what surrounded Aurus instead was a translucent dome that had a dark tint to it.

    At the very instant he was surrounded by this dark-tinted dome, the first thought that came in Aurus¡¯s mind was the idea that the Supreme Ruler of the Void was dissatisfied with his performance in the previous two stages, trapping him inside this dome in order to eradicate him. With that in mind, he could not help but look up at the ceiling of the stone room, asking Inhee with a slightly afraid tone, shouting, ¡°Inhee, what the heck is this? Are you trapping me here so I can¡¯t leave? You do know I won¡¯t give up without putting up a fight, right?¡±

    ¡°As if I have any reason to do that,¡± Inhee responded to Aurus¡¯s question, letting out a sigh not long after. After that, a few seconds of silence ensued, with Inhee pondering within whether it was going to tell Aurus the truth about the dome or not. Fortunately, the being beside Inhee told it that it was okay for it to tell the truth, letting Inhee breathe out an inward sigh of relief as it said, ¡°Anyways, don¡¯t worry about the dome. You¡¯re not trapped here.¡±

    Listening to Inhee¡¯sforting words, Aurus eventually let out a short sigh, although he was still a bit vignt. Nheless, he still wanted to know the purpose of the dome, so he asked, ¡°So¡­why conjure a dome around me?¡±

    ¡°The Supreme Ruler of the Void told me to conjure that dome around you,¡± Inhee replied to Aurus¡¯s question, which only backfired as Aurus¡¯s vignce towards Inhee had reached a level higher than before as he said with slight fear, ¡°So I was right! The Supreme Ruler of the Void was indeed dissatisfied with my performance!¡±

    ¡°¡­¡± Inhee was left at a loss for words thanks to Aurus¡¯s statement, wondering why Aurus was thinking about this even though he had done an exemry job in the first two stages. Wanting to know why Aurus was thinking about these things, Inhee went ahead and asked him, ¡°Why are you thinking so pessimistically? You¡¯ve done a great job in the first two stages. The Supreme Ruler of the Void just wanted to see your limits in this third stage, nothing more, nothing less.¡±

    After listening to Inhee¡¯s words, Aurus realized that he might have overreacted after the dome was conjured around him. Nheless, he was not going to admit to it so easily, telling Inhee, ¡°Well, all of this could¡¯ve been avoided if you told me the mechanics of the third stage at the instant you started to talking.¡±

    ¡°Trying to me me, eh? You¡¯re way too tender to do that,¡± Inhee said in response to Aurus¡¯s statement before letting out a light chuckle. ¡°Don¡¯t you dare pass the me on me, Aurus. You¡¯re the one who overreacted and you know that.¡±

    Of course, hearing those words, Aurus went silent as he knew that that was the case, with Inhee ignoring Aurus¡¯s silence as it exined the mechanics of the third stage. ¡°Anyways, the name of the third stage is A Heartfelt Fight. In this stage, you¡¯re going to fight against an incarnation of the Supreme Ruler of the Void. Now that I think about it, it¡¯s more of a spar than a fight.¡±

    ¡°Either way, the Supreme Ruler of the Void will exin more about the mechanics of the third stage once it starts,¡± Inhee added. ¡°Also, since the Supreme Ruler of the Void is the one managing the third stage this time around, the rewards after this stage shalle from the Supreme Ruler of the Void, not from me.¡±

    ¡°I see,¡± Aurus said as he repeated Inhee¡¯s exnation a few times to get a better idea of the third stage. In response to his words, Inhee said, ¡°And with that, I shall now leave you with the Supreme Ruler of the Void. To be honest, he has already changed his opinion of you. He just wants to see your maximum power right now.¡±

    Whoosh!

    At the very instant Inhee was finished talking, the silhouette of a human figure appeared quite a distance away from Aurus, radiating an aura that he was the epitome of nothingness. Other than the fact that the clothes he was wearing, which consisted of a ck t-shirt and ck jeans,plemented the aura he was radiating, he had an incredibly handsome face that could easily mesmerize men and women alike. Even Aurus, who was an Inanimate, could not help but be mesmerized by the man¡¯s face after focusing his sense of vision towards the man.

    ¡°Ah, I¡¯m sorry.¡± Fortunately, the man noticed that Aurus was mesmerized thanks to him, suppressing his aura to a minimum, allowing Aurus toe back to his senses. Not long after that, Aurus was able to take a look at the man again, but this time, he focused on the man¡¯s aura of nothingness, prompting him to ask, ¡°Are you¡­the Supreme Ruler of the Void?¡±

    ¡°Indeed, I am. Unfortunately, I am only an incarnation so I can only show a portion of my power in front of you,¡± the man responded to Aurus¡¯s question, introducing himself as the incarnation of the Supreme Ruler of the Void. ¡°Anyways, it seems Inhee has told you a very rough exnation of the third stage so I¡¯ll tell you what I had in mind while making this third stage.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ve already epted the fact that you¡¯re worthy of your title. You have enough power to hold such a title,¡± the Supreme Ruler of the Void added. ¡°I just wanted to see what your limits are as of now. Are you going to show me a power that far exceeds the power you¡¯ve shown in the previous stage?¡±

    ¡°Power that exceeds what I¡¯ve shown in the previous stage¡­¡± Aurus muttered in response to the Supreme Ruler of the Void¡¯s words, only to recall the overwhelming power flowing inside his body as he attacked those pirs in the second stage. Of course, alongside that feeling, he remembered that he could only amplify his stats to a maximum of 100 times before his body would not be able to handle it, prompting him to let out a sigh, which was not left unnoticed by the Supreme Ruler of the Void.

    ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡± the Supreme Ruler of the Void asked him. In response to his question, Aurus replied, ¡°I could show you a power that exceeds what I¡¯ve shown in the previous stage, but unfortunately, I am limited by the limit of how much strength my body could hold at maximum. In the previous stage, I was already near that maximum.¡±

    ¡°So Inhee was actually telling me the truth,¡± the Supreme Ruler of the Void muttered to himself after listening to Aurus¡¯s words, pondering over ways to resolve the problem. Eventually, a spark of inspiration shed in his mind, with him smiling as he told Aurus, ¡°It¡¯s a matter of your body limiting you from using your full strength, huh. I¡¯ll give you a temporary buff that removes that limit for now.¡±

    Snap.

    Ding!

    And so, with a snap of his fingers, the Supreme Ruler of the Void went ahead and sent a bit of the aura surrounding him towards Aurus as a notification sound resounded in his mind. Not long after, Theresa went ahead and told Aurus of the content of this notification, saying, ¡°Master, you¡¯ve obtained a temporary buff called [Vessel of the Void]! The effect of the buff allows you to go past the multiplier limit of 100 times!¡±

    ¡°Eh?¡± As Aurus listened to Theresa¡¯s words, Aurus was left in a state of confusion, wondering why the Supreme Ruler of the Void would do such a thing. Surprisingly, the Supreme Ruler of the Void chuckled, as if he was reading Aurus¡¯s thoughts, and said, ¡°As I¡¯ve said before, I just want to see your maximum power. This is just the curiosity and awe of a Ruler taking over me.¡±

    ¡°The question is¡­will you allow me to see it?¡±

    ¡°Well¡­¡± Aurus pondered over it, eventually letting out a chuckle as he replied, ¡°Since you¡¯ve given me such a buff, I¡¯m also quite curious as to how high of abat power I could show alone. Now let this Inanimate entertain you, Supreme Ruler of the Void.¡±

    ¡°[Supreme Deification].¡±

    ¡°[Sole Entity].¡±

    ¡°[Soul Transcendence].¡±

    Whoosh!

    In an instant, the aura radiated by Aurus had amplified by a great degree, giving the Supreme Ruler of the Void a feeling that the aura radiated by the Inanimate in front of him exceeded the aura he was currently radiating. He closed his eyes and focused all of his remaining eyes towards the current aura being radiated, with him muttering not long after, ¡°Rank 4 Animate level¡­¡±

    Whoosh!

    Not long after saying that, the aura emanating from the Supreme Ruler of the Void had increased by a notch, radiating a power that did not lose to the power Aurus was radiating. In response to this, Aurus let out a chuckle before saying, ¡°I¡¯m just getting started.¡±

    ¡°[Dark Universal de].¡±

    Whoosh!

    After activating a single skill, the aura radiated by Aurus had amplified by a great degree one more time, with the Supreme Ruler of the Void¡¯s eyes widening from surprise. This time though, it only took a while for him to get an idea of how strong Aurus currently was, muttering to himself with slight doubt, ¡°Rank 7¡­Animate¡­?¡±

    Whoosh!

    And just like that, the aura radiating from the Supreme Ruler of the Void was on an equal level yet again, with him looking at the Inanimate in front of him with slight shock. He could not help but mutter to himself, ¡°Although it¡¯s at the level of a Rank 7 Animate, only a small distance remains before the Inanimate reaches the strength of a Rank 8 Animate!¡±

    At this point, the Supreme Ruler of the Void was in utter disbelief. Never did he think that the limit of the Inanimate in front of him far exceeded the power it showed in the previous stage, where he thought it was already unimaginable for such a small Inanimate to wield such power. Of course, the Inanimate wouldn¡¯t be so monstrous to exceed this level¡­right?

    ¡°Is that all you¡¯ve got, Inanimate?¡± the Supreme Ruler of the Void asked Aurus this question. In response to this, a hint of doubt was in Aurus¡¯s tone as he responded, ¡°I have another skill in my arsenal I can use to increase my power even further¡­but I¡¯m not sure if it even boosts my power.¡±

    ¡°Hoh?¡± In response to Aurus¡¯s words, the Supreme Ruler of the Void raised his eyebrow before saying, ¡°Well, go ahead and use it. I hope it surprises me.¡±

    ¡°Alright then,¡± Aurus replied before taking in a deep breath.

    Whoosh!

    ¡°[Pseudo-Animate Ascension].¡±

 Chapter 204: Partial Owner

    Chapter 204: Partial Owner

    ¡°[Pseudo-Animate Ascension].¡±

    Whoosh!

    Bang!

    At the very instant Aurus had activated this new skill, the aura radiating from his body had intensified by a thousand times, creating a shockwave that sent the Supreme Ruler of the Void, who was incredibly dumbfounded by the sudden increase in power, flying back towards the dome.

    Ding!

    On the other hand, a notification sound resounded within Aurus¡¯s mind, with Theresa reading the notification for Aurus as it seemed that Aurus could not check the notifications on his own, being too engrossed by the amount of power he wielded.

    ¡°Master, due to the constant consumption of [Pseudo-Animate Ascension], as well as the other skills activated before it, you can only maintain this level of power for only 15 seconds before [Pseudo-Animate Ascension] automatically deactivates,¡± Theresa said to Aurus.

    Fortunately, after hearing Theresa¡¯s voice, Aurus finally snapped back to reality, letting out a chuckle as hemanded Theresa, ¡°Theresa, show me a small screen with the Spirit stat on it. Since [Pseudo-Animate Ascension] temporarily changes my existence level to Pseudo-Animate, there¡¯s no need to convert it.¡±

    ¡°As you wish, Master,¡± Theresa responded to Aurus¡¯smand, bringing up a small holographic screen in front of Aurus¡¯s field of vision not long after. It then told Aurus, ¡°You only have 10 seconds remaining.¡±

    ¡°I got it. Don¡¯t worry, Theresa. I know what I need to¡ª¡± As Aurus responded to Theresa¡¯s timely reminder on how much time he had left before his current power drastically drops down, he focused his sense of vision towards the small holographic screen in front of him, leaving him at a loss for words as he could not believe the number that was written on the screen. Thankfully, since he knew that he only had a limited time to wield this power, he hastily came to his senses as he muttered, ¡°Is this really¡­my full power?¡±

    [Spirit]: 219,156,300

    With his Spirit stat at the millions, Aurus could not help but recall the first time he checked the description of [Pseudo-Animate Ascension]. In actuality, the first time he checked it was before the third stage had started.

    ¡­

    After Inhee told Aurus that he had a 10-minute break to recuperate his losses after the second stage, Aurus went ahead and told Theresa to set a timer for 10 minutes, to which Theresa promptly followed, not taking a lot of time to do so. With that being done, Aurus then went ahead and wondered what he could do to pass the time, eventually thinking about his n to solidify his foundation before he evolved to X-grade Inanimate.

    And so, using up 2 minutes of his time, Aurus did just that, letting out a low sigh as he muttered, ¡°Well, after I¡¯m done with this trial, I don¡¯t really have anything to change about the third and fourth step. I shouldn¡¯t overthink the n too much.¡±

    With the n now out of the way, Aurus then pondered on what he could do next, eventually recalling that he was going to check on the two active skills that came with the two passive skills he had received from the war, both of them piquing his interest as he told Theresa to bring up the description of those two active skills.

    Ding! Ding!

    And just like that, two holographic screens appeared in front of Aurus¡¯s field of vision, allowing Aurus to hastily skim through the descriptions of both skills at once. After skimming through the description of the first active skill, Aurus could not help but wonder how it could be useful to him, eventually saying, ¡°If I¡¯m in a life-threatening situation where I¡¯m pretty sure I would die, I think I could use this to at least let me live.¡±

    ________

    [Lesser Fate Maniption]

    Only those blessed by the Goddesses of Fate shall be able to wield such a skill, allowing them to minutely change their destinies in order to forge a new path that has not been seen before. Of course, due to the power of such a skill, a great bacsh would ur when the user uses the skill. Please use this skill with caution.

    FP Cost: Depends on how much of the user¡¯s destiny shall be changed.

    Note: The penalty of changing fate varies on the severity of the destiny changed.

    ________

    ¡°Let¡¯s check the next one,¡± Aurus said as he focused his sense of vision towards the description of the next one, hastily closing both screens not long after as he shouted without hesitation, ¡°[Pseudo-Animate Ascension]!¡±

    Whoosh!

    ________

    [Pseudo-Animate Ascension]

    A skill that gives the user the ability to temporarily rece their existence level to that of a Pseudo-Animate. This skill could be used to increase thebat power of a being, or reduce the presence of a being to a minimum.

    > Temporarily reces the user¡¯s existence level to Pseudo-Animate

    FP Cost: 20,000 FP per second

    ________

    After activating [Pseudo-Animate Ascension], the first thing Aurus felt was that his senses had sharpened quite greatly, allowing him to see minute details on the walls of therge stone room he was in. Not only that, whenever he looked at Theresa, he faintly had an idea of what it was thinking at the moment. Of course, the greatest change brought to Aurus was the increase in his power. Since a single stat point for a Pseudo-Animate was equivalent to 1,000 stat points for an Inanimate, that meant that the efficacy of a single point of Aurus is now equivalent to 1,000 points.

    ¡°Master, since you have temporarily changed your existence level to Pseudo-Animate, the efficacy of a single stat point of yours is now equivalent to 1,000 stat points of an Inanimate,¡± Theresa said, to which Aurus became greatly bewildered. He pondered over it for a bit, eventually getting to a conclusion as he asked Theresa, ¡°In other words, you¡¯re telling me¡­that my power has increased by 1,000 times?¡±

    ¡°Pretty much, Master,¡± Theresa replied to his question before adding, ¡°Since temporarily changing your existence level is not part of amplification, your body would not implode, Master. Of course, since your power has increased by 1,000 points in such an abrupt manner, you can only maintain this state for a certain amount of time.¡±

    ¡°How much time do I have left before it deactivates, then?¡± Aurus asked Theresa, to which it replied with a chuckle.

    ¡°None.¡±

    Whoosh!

    Just as Theresa said that word, the feeling Aurus felt a while ago had disappeared in an instant, reverting all of his senses to its original state. Nheless, Aurus was still in awe at how much his power had increased. While still savoring the feeling of [Pseudo-Animate Ascension], a thought entered his mind.

    ¡®What if I activate [Pseudo-Animate Ascension] while my status boosting buffs are enabled?¡¯ Aurus thought to himself, letting out a chuckle as he thought that with that kind of power, he would probably have enough power to fight against high-ranked Animates and still end up winning.

    And so, with his fast FP regeneration rate, Aurus went ahead and activated [Pseudo-Animate Ascension] a few more times to savor the feeling of being a Pseudo-Animate again, eventually stopping after Inhee had told him that his break was over just as he had finished recovering his FP.

    ¡­

    After being flung by a shockwave thanks to the abrupt increase in strength Aurus had undergone, the Supreme Ruler of the Void had collided with the dome, a decently loud explosion sound resounding not long after as he hastilynded on his feet. He then dusted off his clothes before taking a look at the current Aurus that was now quite far away from him.

    Of course, since Aurus¡¯s strength had significantly increased once again, the Supreme Ruler of the Void had to adjust to his current level of power¡­only to be left at a loss for words as his hasty examination as to what level of power Aurus had reached made him look at the Inanimate as if it was a monster.

    ¡°Rank 1 Transcendent¡­no, wait. The Inanimate doesn¡¯t even have control over a Principle,¡± the Supreme Ruler of the Void muttered to himself in disbelief, gauging the exact level of strength Aurus currently had. ¡°Even though it doesn¡¯t have control over a Principle, this Inanimate can still be considered at the Pseudo-Transcendent level!¡±

    Whoosh!

    And just like that, the aura radiating from the Supreme Ruler of the Void had intensified to match the current aura Aurus was radiating as he made his way towards Aurus. On the other hand, Aurus looked at the Supreme Ruler of the Void, slightly surprised that he was able to reach him in a matter of an instant.

    ¡°How long can you hold that form? I¡¯m pretty sure you¡¯re consuming a lot of energy to use that,¡± the Supreme Ruler of the Void said at the very first instant he had arrived in front of Aurus. As for Aurus, he hastily replied, saying, ¡°I can only hold this state for around 20 seconds at most right now. In fact, I only have a few seconds remaining before this state wears off.¡±

    ¡°Oh?¡± In response to Aurus¡¯s words, the Supreme Ruler of the Void looked at the Inanimate in front of him from a new perspective, realizing that the title the Inanimate currently had was actuallycking whenpared to its true power. With a light chuckle, he then told Aurus, ¡°Before it wears off, go ahead and attack me with that power you have. Don¡¯t worry about me getting injured. I¡¯m an incarnation anyway.¡±

    Hearing that he could hit the Supreme Ruler of the Void without worrying about retaliation or anything, Aurus instantly became eager to hit him with his current level of power, hastily conjuring a thousand swords above him, which reduced the amount of time he could maintain his state by a second. Nheless, due to the [Hexatasking] skill Aurus had, he was able to easily manipte the swords to congregate and fuse into a w farrger than the one he had conjured in the second stage.

    Without hesitation, he went ahead and swung this w made out of swords towards the Supreme Ruler of the Void as he shouted the name of the skill he had used.

    ¡°[Spellswords of Ruination: Ultimate Art]!¡±

    ¡°[Millenium Sword Embodiment]!¡±

    ¡°[Nine Realms¡¯ Nether w]!¡±

    Bang!

    At the instant the w made out of swords had collided with the Supreme Ruler of the Void, a loud explosion sound resounded from it, as well as arge shockwave, sending Aurus flying towards the dome as [Pseudo-Animate Ascension] had deactivated, reverting his existence level to S-grade Inanimate. Nevertheless, he was very satisfied that he was able to unleash an attack that was at his limit for now.

    After hitting the dome, Aurus went ahead and teleported back to where he previously was using [Omnipresent Movement], radiating an aura of shock as he noticed that even though the attack he had sent out had far greater power than the one he sent out in the second stage, the Supreme Ruler of the Void was unscathed as a ck mass of energy blocked the w from even hitting him as he grinned while looking at Aurus.

    Eventually, the w made out of swords disappeared as the Supreme Ruler of the Void removed the ck mass of energy protecting him. He then looked at Aurus, who was currently radiating an aura of disappointment, and let out a chuckle as he said to him, ¡°You know, for an Inanimate, you really pack a punch. If I were still at my original existence level at the start of this third stage, I would probably be turned to dust right now.¡±

    ¡°Hm?¡± Aurus¡¯s interest was piqued, prompting him to ask the Supreme Ruler of the Void, ¡°What do you mean by that?¡±

    ¡°As I¡¯ve said before, I wanted to see the maximum limit of your power,¡± the Supreme Ruler of the Void replied to Aurus¡¯s question as he added, ¡°Of course, for a Supreme Ruler, wouldn¡¯t it be quite embarrassing to lose against someone who has a title three ranks lower than you?¡±

    ¡°With that in mind, whenever your power abruptly increases, I go ahead and adjust my power to be on the same level as you, which would allow me to at least defend against your attacks without much problem. Of course, if my real body was here, you¡¯d be crushed to pieces. Hahaha,¡± the Supreme Ruler of the Void continued, letting out augh which made Aurus awkwardlyugh in response.

    ¡°Anyways, wanna know what existence level I reached before you unleashed that attack of yours?¡± This time, the Supreme Ruler of the Void asked Aurus with a smile on his face. In response, Aurus eagerly responded, ¡°Please tell me, Supreme Ruler of the Void!¡±

    ¡°Pseudo-Transcendent level. That¡¯s the level you¡¯ve reached,¡± the Supreme Ruler of the Void said before sitting on the ground and letting out a sigh. As for Aurus, after hearing thest existence level the Supreme Ruler of the Void was at before he defended against his attack, Aurus could not help but shout inwardly, ¡°So you¡¯re telling me¡­the current me has more than enough strength to kill Chonk without a problem?!¡±

    ¡°Not only that, but with that level of strength, I would also be able to pass through every ce of Erudinia unhindered!¡± Aurus continued to shout inwardly, eventually remembering that his amplification multiplier was still limited by his body. Realizing this, he then muttered, ¡°Oh, right. My body wouldn¡¯t be able to handle that much power. But that doesn¡¯t mean I can¡¯t go ande out unscathed from some towns and cities with low-ranked Animates, right?¡±

    While Aurus was engrossed at the idea of him having enough power tobat Animates, the Supreme Ruler of the Void attracted his attention, saying, ¡°Hey, Inanimate. It seems I have misjudged you. Although you don¡¯t control the element of the Void that often, which isn¡¯t really a problem to me, the power you¡¯ve exerted far surpassed my expectations, with your existence level being my main problem.¡±

    He then continued, ¡°To make up for it, I¡¯ve decided on a few things that would help you along the path to bing a Supreme Ruler of the Void, just like me.¡±

    At this point, Aurus¡¯s interest was piqued, radiating an aura of curiosity as the Supreme Ruler of the Void soon added, ¡°For someone like you, who has a great future ahead, these rewards might only be small. But do take it as a token of gratitude.¡±

    Ding! Ding! Ding!

    Hearing notification sounds resound throughout his mind yet again, this time, Aurus went ahead and opened up a notification screen in front of him, reading through thetest notifications he had received. Of course, it did not take long for Aurus to read through the new notifications, with him focusing his sense of vision towards the Supreme Ruler of the Void as he said, ¡°Are you kidding me? These rewards are more than enough for an Inanimate like me!¡±

    ¡®Due to the maniption of the Supreme Ruler of the Void, your title [Assistant Ruler of the Void] has been upgraded to [Junior Ruler of the Void].¡¯

    ¡®Due to the Supreme Ruler of the Void feeling great amazement from your show of power, the passive Species skill [Blessing of the Void¡¯s Ruler] has been obtained.¡¯

    ¡®Due to the coercion of the Supreme Ruler of the Void, the Inheritance Ruler has bestowed upon you partial ownership of the Area 52 Inheritance, giving you the title [Area 52 Inheritance: Partial Owner].¡¯

 Chapter 205: A Secret Proposal

    Chapter 205: A Secret Proposal

    XXXX Continent, Seraph Kingdom, Arcana Tower.

    ¡°I was right. That legendary ss has now be my ss,¡± Erea said to herself with a wide smile on her face as she looked at the notification screen in front of her. ¡°I wonder how far I can go.¡±

    Ding!

    ¡®The user has ascended to a higher ss.¡¯

    ¡®The user¡¯s ss has been changed from Rank 2 Mage to Rank 3 Dual Cortex Mage.¡¯

    ¡®The user has gained ess to Level 0 Spells of the Fusion variant.¡¯

    ¡®The user has obtained [Fusion Affinity] and [Spell Fusion].¡¯

    ¡®The user¡¯s stats have been greatly increased.¡¯

    ¡®A god seems to be greatly interested in your abilities.¡¯

    After reading through all of the notifications she had obtained, she went ahead and closed the screen before pondering over what she wanted to try out first. Amongst the three notifications she had obtained, there were two things that she could actively use in there that were new to her: Fusion variant spells and [Spell Fusion].

    Of course, Erea already had an idea as to how [Spell Fusion] worked from the name alone. With that in mind, she decided to test out the new Fusion variant spells she had obtained,manding the system to bring up a list of the Fusion variant spells in her mind.

    Then, she went ahead and closed her eyes as she used her thoughts to look through the list, eventually opening her eyes not long after as she muttered, ¡°These spells¡­are quite peculiar.¡±

    ¡°Although I now have an idea on what Fusion spells can do, there¡¯s still a difference between thinking about it and testing it out,¡± she added before going ahead and extending her right arm as she chanted the incantation for the most basic spell among the Fusion variant spells.

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    Not long after, a great amount of Erea¡¯s mana was consumed, allowing multiple energy particles of various colors and Elements to be more pronounced in the surroundings as they slowly made their way towards her. As she looked at these energy particles get closer to her before forming a whirlpool around her, she could not help but be at a slight loss for words, surprised at how much energy particles were pulled in by this basic Level 0 spell.

    Indeed, the spell that Erea had cast was the lowest level of spells possible for a Mage to cast, a Level 0 spell. But from the looks of it, even though this spell was considered a Level 0, from the number of energy particles pulled in, Erea could not help but think that this spell¡¯s power was around the lines of a Lower Level 1 to a Higher Level 1 spell.

    Eventually, the energy particles circling her had be uniform in their movement, allowing Erea to manipte these particles to head towards her open right palm, a bolt of pure white hovering over her right palm not long after. As she looked at this white bolt, she could not help but think of the contrast between the various colors of the energy particles from before and the monotone color of the spell right now. Nevertheless, she muttered the name of the spell.

    ¡°[Fusion Bolt].¡±

    ¡°Well¡­with that out of the way, what should I do next?¡± After muttering the spell¡¯s name, Erea asked himself on what she was going to do next, pondering as to whether she would throw the spell towards a certain direction or not. Eventually, she decided to not throw it, remembering that she read from the system that Fusion variant spells were inherently spells with no element.

    She also read from the system that in order for a Fusion variant spell to shine, one must fire skills or spells with other elements towards the Fusion variant spell, allowing the spell to obtain characteristics from the elements. And so, she went ahead and extended her left arm, using the abilities of her current ss to hastily conjure a spell she had cast multiple times already.

    ¡°[Fireball].¡±

    Fwoosh!

    Within a few seconds, a fiery ball of mes started to hover over Erea¡¯s left palm, leaving her astonished at the fact that the speed at which she had cast such a spell was far faster than before she ascended to this current ss of hers. Not long after, she lightly chuckled as she said, ¡°Then again, this kind of ability is inherent in the name of my current ss anyway.¡±

    ¡°Anyways, should I go ahead and fire this spell at the bolt on my right?¡± Erea asked herself, wondering if a Level 0 spell would be able to handle the power imbued within a Lower Level 1 spell. In the end, the experimental side of her mind won over her rational side, prompting her to say, ¡°Well, you just have to try it out to find it out.¡±

    Whoosh!

    After saying those words, she then manipted the fireball with her mind, increasing the gap between the fireball and the white bolt within a matter of seconds. Eventually, thinking that the distance between the two was enough, she then went ahead and manipted the fireball to hit the white bolt as fast as possible.

    Ssh!

    At the very instant the two spells had collided over her right palm, Erea could not help but close her eyes from the slight fear that the white bolt would explode from the power of the [Fireball] spell. Surprisingly, instead of hearing arge explosion sound resound from the collision, what she heard instead was the sound of something sshing into some liquid, making her wonder as to what happened to the spells.

    And so, she opened her eyes, only to open her mouth agape from slight surprise not long after. Just as the system described, the white bolt had absorbed the properties of the [Fireball] spell, with the white bolt taking on a faint orange tint as a flickering orange me emanated from its exterior. Looking at its current appearance, Erea could not help but think that the spell on her palm was just the basic Level 0 [Fire Bolt] spell, but with its destructive capabilities boosted to that of a Level 1.

    With that in mind, Erea asked herself, ¡°Surely, a Fusion variant spell wouldn¡¯t just do that, right?¡±

    ¡°From the name of the variant, I¡¯m pretty sure this spell could take on the characteristics of multiple elements at once,¡± Erea added before going ahead and casting a spell she had just mastered a while ago before her ascension, [Aqua Sphere].

    Whoosh!

    After casting the spell, she could not help but be in slight disbelief, surprised by how fast she could conjure the spell. Not only that, but she also had a strong feeling that the spell could mimic the natural movements of water for a far longer time after her ascension. Either way, she ced these thoughts at the back of her head as she unhesitatingly manipted the ball of water to distance itself from the now light orange bolt before making it charge towards the bolt.

    This time though, she decided to not close her eyes, wondering what happened when the two spells collide.

    Ssh!

    Surprisingly, at the very instant the two spells had collided with one another, from what Erea could see, the light orange bolt expanded to a size farrger than the ball of water for a short amount of time. It then went ahead and engulfed the ball of water without a problem as the characteristics of the bolt gradually changed in a matter of a few seconds.

    Watching the process of how a Fusion variant spell took on the characteristics of an element, Erea could not help but ponder as to how many elements a Fusion variant spell could have before it disintegrates. Eventually, she decided to think that the limit was based on her ss, which was 2.

    She then took a closer look at the bolt hovering over her palm, slightly entranced. If the bolt from before was pure mes with enhanced destructive capabilities, then the bolt hovering over her palm right now was akin to mes acting like a fluid. Not only that, but the mes on the bolt also gave off the feeling that it could be manipted in any way possible, akin to the flexibility of water.

    And so, with those characteristics in mind, Erea went ahead and unhesitatingly threw it towards one of the walls in her training room, with the bolt exploding without any difficulty as it collided. But what happened next surprised Erea.

    Rather than leave a burn mark on the wall just like any normal Fire-based spell, the mes constituting the bolt went ahead and acted like water, scattering into multiple particles that lit up quite arge portion of the room on fire. Fortunately, there were no mmable things near where Erea threw the bolt, so after looking at what the Fusion variant spell could do more closely, she went ahead and dispelled the spell, letting out a sigh of amazement not long after.

    ¡°To think that a Fusion variant spell has this much capability,¡± Erea muttered to herself, still in awe as to what it could do. Just as she was about to test the second thing she had obtained from the ascension, a spark of inspiration shed in her mind, giving her a new perspective on Fusion variant spells as she wondered, ¡°Now that I think about it, Fusion variant spells aren¡¯t only limited to me firing the spells towards it. Even other people can fire skills or spells towards it.¡±

    ¡°If that¡¯s the case¡­wouldn¡¯t I be a person that could take the ce of everyone else,¡± Erea asked herself, imagining situations wherein that would possibly the case. With that thought now in her mind, she was quite excited to go ahead and tell her teacher, Dane, about her sessfully ascending to a Rank 3 ss.

    After thinking about the greater potential of the Fusion variant spells, Erea decided to go and try out the [Spell Fusion] skill she had received from her ascension, only for someone to knock on the door to her room just as she was about to do so.

    Knock! Knock! Knock!

    Hearing those loud knocks resound throughout her room, Erea could not help but slightly frown before taking a few deep breaths topose herself. Afterposing herself, she went ahead and opened the door with a light smile. She then looked at the person knocking on the door before asking in a kind tone, ¡°How may I help you?¡±

    In response to her question, the person in front of her cleared their throat before asking her, ¡°I apologize for the sudden intrusion, but might I ask if your name is Erea Magimillia? A Rank 2 Mage?¡±

    Hearing her voice mentioned by the person, Erea could not help but be slightly vignt as she nodded her head, responding, ¡°Yes, I am Erea Magimillia. What seems to be the problem, sir?¡±

    With Erea responding that she was indeed the person the person was finding, the person let out a sigh of relief before responding to her question as a gold leaf appeared on the left side of his red robe. ¡°Ah. There¡¯s no problem at all, Miss Erea. We¡¯ve just obtained news that you have ascended to a higher ss. Is that true?¡±

    At this moment, Erea had be more vignt since the person was asking her about him breaking through, even though she did not even know the person in front of her. Noticing her vignce, the person let out a light smile as he realized what he was doing wrong, saying, ¡°Ah. I apologize for not introducing myself to Miss Erea. I am Veriano von Artelia, a Rank 4 High Mage of the Arcana Tower, as well as a High Official of the Tower.¡±

    After the person in front of her introduced himself to her, it was then that Erea noticed the gold leaf on the man¡¯s robe, letting out a suppressed gasp as her vignce had gone down the drain. She then hastily replied, ¡°Ah! I apologize for not recognizing the gold leaf on your red robe!¡±

    Formon mages like Erea in the tower, mages who have a gold leaf on their robe signify that they hold an important position in the Tower. A mage with a budding gold leaf is considered a Low Official of the Tower, while a mage with a fully grown gold leaf is considered a High Official of the Tower. Of course, there are also mages with two or more golden leaves of the Arcana Tower, but they¡¯re considered core officials of the tower, being incredibly rare to meet.

    ¡°It¡¯s fine, it¡¯s fine, it was my fault for not introducing myself at the start anyway,¡± Veriano replied to Erea¡¯s statement with a light smile on his face. He then asked her once more, ¡°Anyways, let me ask again, Miss Erea. Have you ascended to a higher ss?¡±

    ¡°Indeed, I have.¡± Erea nodded in response to his question. ¡°I¡¯ve just ascended to Rank 3.¡±

    ¡°I see, I see,¡± Veriano responded to her words with a smile on his face. He then went ahead and rummaged something inside his robe, revealing a decently sized green crystal to Erea not long after. Letting the green crystal hover over his right palm, Veriano went ahead and told her, ¡°To officiate your status as a Rank 3 ss holder of the Arcana Tower, please ce your palm on this ss Crystal right here.¡±

    Listening to Veriano¡¯s words, Erea went ahead and opened the door wide open before cing her right hand on the hovering green crystal. A few secondster, multiple shes of light radiated from the crystal before condensing into three decently sized motes of light inside the crystal.

    Looking at these three motes of light, Veriano¡¯s smile had widened a bit as he replied, ¡°You have indeed ascended to a Rank 3 ss. Congrattions, Miss Erea.¡±

    After saying those words, Veriano then went ahead and snapped his fingers, opening up a rift as a folded piece of ck fabrded on his right palm. He then gave this folded piece of ck fabric to Erea before saying, ¡°Since you are now a Rank 3 ss holder of the Arcana Tower, the Tower has bestowed upon you a ck robe, a robe signifying that you have a Rank 3 ss.¡±

    ¡°I see, thank you for giving me the robe,¡± Erea responded to Veriano¡¯s words with a light smile.

    Just as Erea thought that the conversation between her and Veriano would end here as she slowly closed the door, a voice resounded in her head, the tone of which was incredibly familiar to her. She could not help but look at Veriano, who had a light smile on his face all this time, wondering why Veriano was talking to her through her mind. Fortunately, she hastily found out the reason why.

    ¡°ording to some mages under me, you¡¯ve radiated an aura akin to a Rank 4 mage while you ascended, even though your ss is just Rank 3. That makes me think that your ss is far stronger than anyone would think,¡± Veriano¡¯s voice resounded in her mind.

    ¡°What are you trying to imply?¡± Not knowing what Veriano was getting to, Erea replied to his words through her mind. Not long after, a light chuckle could be heard in her mind as Veriano¡¯s voice continued to resound.

    ¡°I¡¯m a Mage under the Tenth Prince. How about it, Miss Erea? Would you like to join the Tenth Prince¡¯s team in the War for the Throne? I assure you that you would be treated nicely.¡±

 Chapter 206: End of the Trial

    Chapter 206: End of the Trial

    In a ce far away from the Area 52 inheritance, both Inhee and the Supreme Ruler of the Void looked at the Inanimate in the orb with incredibly appalled expressions on their faces. Never did they expect that the maximum level of power for an Inanimate was far higher than the power normally shown by Animates!

    ¡°There¡¯s arge gap of power between a Rank 3 Animate and a Pseudo-Transcendent level being!¡± Inhee could not help but shout after sensing the aura radiating from the Inanimate. ¡°To think that the Inanimate¡¯s body had limited its true power to a great extent.¡±

    ¡°So¡­are you still thinking of removing the Ruler of the Void from that Inanimate?¡± After saying those words, Inhee looked at the Supreme Ruler of the Void, who was engrossed from what the Inanimate was showing, with a smile.

    Although he could not take his eyes off from the full power of the Inanimate, he still responded to Inhee¡¯s words, saying, ¡°I told you before. I¡¯ve already epted the Inanimate as someone who truly deserves the title of Ruler of the Void.¡±

    After that, he then added, ¡°But you know, for an Inanimate to have such a ton of power hidden like that, I can¡¯t help but feel that the Inanimate¡¯s current title is too low for the power it has.¡±

    Fortunately, Inhee had an inquisitive mind, easily reading between the lines of the Supreme Ruler of the Void¡¯s statement, letting out a small gasp of disbelief as she asked him, ¡°Are you telling me¡­you¡¯re going to do that?¡±

    ¡°Well, to be honest, this Inanimate is the first one to show a level of power beyond the Animate level out of all of the Ruler of the Void I¡¯ve anointed,¡± the Supreme Ruler of the Void replied to Inhee¡¯s words in a roundabout way. ¡°Don¡¯t you think the Inanimate deserves to have a reward that is equivalent to its power?¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t see anything wrong with that,¡± Inhee replied to the Supreme Ruler of the Void¡¯s question not long after. After that, the Supreme Ruler of the Void surprisingly took his eyes off of the orb, turning his head around to look at Inhee, with Inhee asking him soon after, ¡°What? Is there something wrong with my face?¡±

    ¡°I feel like the reward I¡¯m going to bestow the Inanimate is far from enough for its power,¡± the Supreme Ruler of the Void replied to Inhee¡¯s question with a smile. ¡°Would it be possible for you to give partial ownership of this Area 52 Inheritance to this Inanimate?¡±

    ¡°What?!¡± In an instant, Inhee¡¯s expression abruptly changed to that of shock before replying, ¡°You do know very well that these inheritances are the only way I could increase my power, right? By giving partial ownership of the Area 52 inheritance to this being, my power will definitely decrease by around 5 percent!¡±

    ¡°Eh? What¡¯s that?¡± The Supreme Ruler of the Void went ahead and leaned his body towards Inhee as he cupped his right hand towards his right ear before saying, ¡°You¡¯re saying you won¡¯t give the Inanimate partial ownership? Okay, then. Guess I won¡¯t double the amount of energy I gave you a while ago.¡±

    Letting out an intentionally long sigh, the Supreme Ruler of the Void went back to his normal posture as he said, ¡°I guess I¡¯ll just have to find another way to give this Inanimate a better rewar¡ª¡±

    ¡°Agh! Your acting is incredibly infuriating.¡± Inhee interrupted the Supreme Ruler of the Void from continuing his words, saying, ¡°Fine, fine. I¡¯ll give that Inanimate partial ownership of the Area 52 Inheritance. In exchange for an additional inheritance being made after Area 68, I guess I¡¯ll give in to your wishes.¡±

    Hearing that Inhee had finally agreed to give the Inanimate partial ownership, the Supreme Ruler of the Void grinned as he said, ¡°I¡¯m d you¡¯re a good friend of mine.¡±

    ¡°Better keep up your part of the deal, okay?¡± Inhee replied to the Supreme Ruler of the Void¡¯s statement, to which the Supreme Ruler of the Void replied, ¡°Of course. Why wouldn¡¯t I keep up my part of the deal for a being with a bright future?¡±

    ¡­

    Ding! Ding! Ding!

    ¡®Due to the maniption of the Supreme Ruler of the Void, your title [Assistant Ruler of the Void] has been upgraded to [Junior Ruler of the Void].¡¯

    ¡®Due to the Supreme Ruler of the Void feeling great amazement from your show of power, the passive Species skill [Blessing of the Void¡¯s Ruler] has been obtained.¡¯

    ¡®Due to the coercion of the Supreme Ruler of the Void, the Inheritance Ruler has bestowed upon you partial ownership of the Area 52 Inheritance, giving you the title [Area 52 Inheritance: Partial Owner].¡¯

    Reading through the notifications he had received, Aurus could not help but look at the Supreme Ruler of the Void in front of him with shock as he said, ¡°Are you kidding me? These rewards are too much for an Inanimate like me!¡±

    ¡°To be honest, I don¡¯t think it¡¯s enough for the power you showed, Inanimate,¡± the Supreme Ruler of the Void replied to Aurus¡¯s words with a light chuckle. ¡°You know, you??re the first being that has epted the Ruler of the Void title and showed a level of power far greater than the peak of the Animate level.¡±

    ¡°Eh?¡± Hearing the Supreme Ruler of the Void¡¯s words, Aurus could not help but radiate an aura of slight surprise. Thinking that he had heard wrong, Aurus asked the Supreme Ruler of the Void, ¡°Could you repeat that one more time?¡±

    ¡°The fact that you¡¯re the first being to show a level of power far greater than the Animate level after epting the Ruler of the Void title?¡± the Supreme Ruler of the Void replied to Aurus¡¯s question with a question of his own, leaving Aurus at a loss for words.

    Eventually, Aurus asked him, ¡°Is that the reason why you¡¯ve given me these rewards?¡±

    ¡°Yeah.¡± The Supreme Ruler of the Void nodded his head in response. He then said, ¡°I have a feeling that these skills I¡¯ve given you right now will help you along in your journey in the future.¡±

    The Supreme Ruler of the Void then stood up and dusted off his backside after saying that. He then went ahead and snapped his fingers, dispelling the dome that surrounded the two of them as the area of the stone room they were in had reverted to its previous state.

    Letting out a sigh of contentment, the Supreme Ruler of the Void looked at Aurus one more time before saying, ¡°And with that, our meeting ends here. I hope you be someone prominent in the future.¡±

    In response to the Supreme Ruler of the Void¡¯s words, Aurus let out a light chuckle before saying, ¡°I hope so as well.¡±

    With a smile on his face, the Supreme Ruler of the Void¡¯s body gradually transformed into dark particles that dissipated into thin air, leaving Aurus alone in the stone room once more after about half a minute or so.

    ¡°So¡­how does giving it your all against the Supreme Ruler of the Void feel like?¡± Just as Aurus thought that he was alone once more, a familiar voice to Aurus resounded throughout the room, prompting Aurus to reply to the voice.

    ¡°It feels kind of rxing, to be honest.¡±

    ¡°Definitely,¡± the voice agreed with Aurus¡¯s opinion. ¡°Giving it your all when ites to fighting always gives you a rxing feeling.¡±

    ¡°Anyways, ording to the Supreme Ruler of the Void, I¡¯ve obtained partial ownership of this inheritance.¡± After the voice was finished voicing out its opinion, Aurus went ahead and asked the voice, ¡°What kind of perks does someone with partial ownership have, Inhee?¡±

    ¡°Well, there¡¯s not much a difference in terms of perks for someone with partial ownership from someone with full ownership,¡± the voice, who was Inhee all this time, replied to his question. It then continued, ¡°You can enter and leave the inheritance as you please, as well as enter any room inside this inheritance as you please.¡±

    Hearing Inhee¡¯s words, Aurus could not help but get a bit excited, pondering as to whether there was a room filled with skills inside this inheritance, just like how the Tempest Cliff inheritance had over a thousand skills for him to learn. Unfortunately for Aurus, as if Inhee was reading his mind, which it was, Inhee let out a chuckle as it said, ¡°The only difference between those two types is the fact that by having partial ownership, the one that owns more of the inheritance can decide whether to allow the one with the lower ownership to enter a certain part of the inheritance.¡±

    ¡°Your intent of heading towards the inheritance¡¯s skill room is quite obvious, Aurus,¡± Inhee added before continuing, ¡°For someone who can already reach a Pseudo-Transcendent level of power, what would you need more skills for?¡±

    Seeing that he was figured out by Inhee, Aurus let out an awkward chuckle as he replied, ¡°Well¡­true. Alright then, I shall be taking my leave.¡±

    Whoosh!

    And with that, using the newfound power he had to control the inheritance, Aurus had left the inheritance, dissipating into thin air as Inhee was left looking at an empty stone room.

    ¡°You could¡¯ve just asked me nicely, you know,¡± Inhee muttered as it let out a boisterous chuckle.

    ¡­

    In a ce far away from the Area 52 inheritance, Inhee had just removed the strands of energy connected her hands towards the orb, stretching her body not long after. After the Supreme Ruler of the Void was finished with the third stage, the Supreme Ruler of the Void stood up from the chair and let Inhee sit on it, allowing Inhee to formally end the impromptu trial Aurus had participated in, with Aurus using his partial ownership power to leave the inheritance.

    With Inhee now only having a view of an empty stone room, she did not have anything else to do, prompting her to stand up from her chair as she turned to look at the Supreme Ruler of the Void, who was near the entrance of Inhee¡¯s ce. While looking at the Supreme Ruler of the Void¡¯s back, Inhee was pondering whether she should get closer to him, eventually deciding that it wouldn¡¯t hurt to do so.

    Step. Step. Step.

    Hearing the sounds of footsteps gradually getting louder behind him, the Supreme Ruler of the Void turned around, a smile stered on his face as he said, ¡°Has the Inanimate left the inheritance, Inhee?¡±

    ¡°Yeah.¡± Inhee nodded as a response to his question. She then went ahead and asked him, ¡°With that out of the way, what are you going to do next?¡±

    ¡°I might go back to my ce and try to break through to the Veridical Saint level,¡± the Supreme Ruler of the Void did not hide anything from Inhee as he replied to her question. He then added, ¡°Or I could go ahead and enhance the control and scope of the Principle I currently have, ascending it to a Greater Principle.¡±

    After listening to the Supreme Ruler of the Void¡¯s reply, Inhee could not help but think that he might be motivated to strive further after seeing that a Ruler he had epted had shown a level of power far greater than its existence level. Since she was not sure whether this was the case, Inhee let out a light chuckle as she asked him, ¡°Is it because of that Inanimate?¡±

    ¡°Pretty much,¡± the Supreme Ruler of the Void replied with a light smile on his face. In response to this, Inhee went closer to the Supreme Ruler of the Void and said, ¡°You know what? Before you go do that, let¡¯s go grab a bite.¡±

    ¡°I told you that we were going to grab a bite right?¡± she added, to which the Supreme Ruler of the Void responded, ¡°Yeah. Where are we going to go eat?¡±

    ¡°Since I¡¯m feeling generous, how about we eat at the Pagoda of Delicacies?¡± Inhee asked the Supreme Ruler of the Void, to which thetter replied with slight shock, ¡°Eh? There? You do know how expensive appetizers cost there, right?¡±

    ¡°Who says I¡¯m using my own money to pay for that?¡± Inhee replied to the Supreme Ruler of the Void¡¯s words with a chuckle before adding, ¡°I¡¯m gonna use the payment you gave me to treat ourselves. In other words, you¡¯re paying for my meal.¡±

    Listening to Inhee¡¯s exnation, the Supreme Ruler of the Void could not help but let out a chortle, eventually saying, ¡°Ah, that¡¯s so like you, Inhee. Fine, fine. Think of it as me treating you. Let¡¯s go to the Pagoda of Delicacies.¡±

    Whoosh!

    Not long after that, the Supreme Ruler of the Void went ahead and flew upwards, to which Inhee followed suit not long after. With the two of them side by side, they then flew towards the Pagoda of Delicacies at maximum speed.

    ¡°Inhee?¡±

    ¡°Yeah?¡±

    ¡°After we go grab a bite, do you want to¡­¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ve told you before, and I¡¯ll tell you again. No means no, One Shot.¡±

    ¡°Stop calling me One Shot. It hurts my pride.¡±

    ¡°But it¡¯s the truth, One Shot. Hehe.¡±

    ¡°Ahh¡­shut up.¡±

 Chapter 207: The Third Step

    Chapter 207: The Third Step

    Whoosh!

    And just like that, Aurus had left the inheritance, albeit awkwardly due to him being found out by Inhee on what he was going to do so with his newfound partial ownership. Letting out a short awkward chuckle after appearing a decent distance away from the inconspicuous magic circle that served as the entrance of the inheritance, he then made sure to forget that awkward situation as he started to teleport his way back to the alliance base.

    Whoosh!

    While he was making way back to the alliance base, Aurus could not help but think that he had not identified the skills and titles he had received from the Supreme Ruler of the Void, prompting him tomand Theresa, who was still on his left shoulder, asking, ¡°Theresa, could you bring up the descriptions of the skills and titles I¡¯ve received from the inheritance?¡±

    In response to this, Theresa replied to Aurus¡¯s question with a question of its own, saying, ¡°Would you like me to bring up the descriptions of only the skills and titles you¡¯ve obtained from the inheritance, or does that include the skills embedded within the skills and titles, Master?¡±

    Hearing that some of the skills and titles he had received from the Supreme Ruler of the Void had embedded skills in some of them, Aurus unhesitatingly decided to choose thetter since he would still have to open up the description of the embedded skill either way.

    Ding! Ding! Ding! Ding!

    And just like that, Theresa followed Aurus¡¯s wishes, four small but slightly corporeal screens appearing in front of his field of vision as he continued to teleport his way back to the alliance base. Surprisingly, every time he teleported, the screens that he had summoned would appear at a fixed distance in front of his field of vision. This allowed him to skim through the descriptions without much problem while teleporting, letting out a slightly surprised gasp after reading up on the description of the embedded skill.

    ¡°The boosts given by the titles are still normal since [Junior Ruler of the Void] is the third-highest rank for a Ruler of the Void while the Area 52 Inheritance has a lot of power, which in turn gives me a lot of power as well since I¡¯m a partial owner. But this skill¡­how strong is the Supreme Ruler of the Void to be exact?¡±

    ________

    [Junior Ruler of the Void]

    Effects: Increases all stats by 125%

    ________

    ________

    [Area 52 Inheritance: Partial Owner]

    Effects: Increases all stats by 150%

    ________

    ________

    [Blessing of the Void¡¯s Ruler] (Level MAX)

    Grade: Unknown

    Seeing the boundless potential of the Inanimate that he has tested, the Supreme Ruler of the Void decided to give this Inanimate a blessing that would allow it to manipte the element of Void, which it had not done so after obtaining such a title. This skill allows the user to manipte the element of Void, as well as tap into the powers of the Supreme Ruler of the Void for a short while.

    > All active Ruler skills obtained from the [Ruler of the Void] title and its different ranks have now been modified to use up less FP than before.

    > All active Ruler skills obtained from the [Ruler of the Void] title and its different ranks have now been modified to be variable in output, wherein the skill¡¯s power would depend on how much FP the user infuses into the skill.

    > Gain ess to the skill [Void Ruler¡¯s Parting Gift]

    ________

    ________

    [Void Ruler¡¯s Parting Gift] (Level MAX)

    Grade: Unknown

    Seeing the boundless potential of the Inanimate that he has tested, the Supreme Ruler of the Void decided to give this Inanimate ess to a small amount of power, which would allow the Inanimate to gain ess to a few of the Supreme Ruler of the Void¡¯s skills. Due to the great power of the Supreme Ruler of the Void, the FP requirements for each of the skills are incredibly high, but the damage they unleash is far higher than what the user is currently able to unleash.

    > Gain ess to the skill [Void Orb]

    Note: The Supreme Ruler of the Void has decided to limit the number of skills avable to the user to one for now. But if the user amplifies their stats to the limit of their body, the Supreme Ruler of the Void will increase the number of skills avable to the user.

    ________

    Most of Aurus¡¯s attention was focused on thest two skills shown by Theresa, which was more or less the blessing of the Supreme Ruler of the Void himself. He could not help but ponder as to why the Supreme Ruler of the Void decided to give him a blessing, eventuallying up with a usible conclusion as he muttered, ¡°I guess the first skill was made because he noticed that my body had a limit on how much power I could amplify, so he went ahead and made the effects of the skills variable so I could maximize my amplification.¡±

    ¡°As for the second skill¡­¡± As he got to this point, Aurus could not help but ponder even more, eventually letting out a sigh as he said, ¡°I guess he just wants me to use the element of Void even more. Probably.¡±

    Whoosh!

    After he read up on all the skills he had obtained from that impromptu trial, he soon closed all of the screens up before experimenting with the new variable output feature of the Ruler skills. It did not take long for him to realize that the new variable output feature of the skills would allow him to limit his strength if needed.

    And so, Aurus made his way back to the alliance, taking around 30 minutes or so this time around to get back since he was experimenting with the variable output of [Zenith Nihility Dash]. At the very instant he had arrived in front of the alliance base, he could not help but mutter to himself, ¡°I¡¯m finally back.¡±

    ¡°Wee back, Aurus!¡± Not long after saying those words to himself, Aurus heard a shout from behind him, prompting him to scream out in slight fear as he hastily turned his sense of vision around. After seeing who it was, Aurus let out a sigh of relief as he said, ¡°Couldn¡¯t you just properly greet me next time? Scaring me at night isn¡¯t good for my health, you know.¡±

    ¡°Your health? You know Aurus, you talk like an Animate sometimes.¡± In response to Aurus¡¯s words, the being that shouted a while ago, replied before letting out a chuckle. This being was made out of pure energy, its aura making Aurus feel like he couldn¡¯t beat the being if they were only basing it on their normal stats. This being was none other than Horell, who was the Supreme Guardian of the Verdant Blossom Branch Alliance, but still acted like how he used to when the alliance was called the Tempest Branch Alliance.

    ¡°So¡­how did your adventure go?¡± As Aurus made his way into the main hall of the alliance base, Horell proceeded to chat with him, asking him this question. In response, Aurus radiated a slight aura of happiness as he responded, ¡°Quite swell, to be honest. I¡¯ve gotten most of the things that I need before I go ahead and evolve.¡±

    ¡°Oh?¡± Listening to Aurus¡¯s words, Horell could not help but radiate an aura of curiosity as he asked him, ¡°You¡¯re going to evolve soon?¡±

    ¡°Yeah,¡± Aurus replied to Horell¡¯s question. He then added, ¡°I¡¯ve umted enough power to be someone invincible amongst Inanimates. Don¡¯t you think it¡¯s time for me to evolve to X-grade Inanimate and be even more invincible than that?¡±

    ¡°Well¡­¡± Horell pondered over Aurus¡¯s question for a while before responding, ¡°I don¡¯t really see the problem with evolving based on how much power you have right now, but in terms of the length of time you¡¯ve been an S-grade Inanimate, I feel like you could still umte some more.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s if I go to the areas that are far away from the Tempest Cliff,¡± Aurus said in response to Horell¡¯s question. ¡°Do you really want to see me be grabbed by an Animate and turned into a weapon of theirs?¡±

    ¡°Of course not. Why are you thinking about those things?¡± Horell replied to Aurus¡¯s question, letting out an aura of slight mncholy over the situation that Aurus made him imagine. In response to his words, Aurus let out a light chuckle and said, ¡°Well¡­why not? Think of it this way. If I evolve to X-grade Inanimate, the chances of me being caught by Animates would be incredibly low, allowing me to umte even more power than ever before. Don¡¯t you think that¡¯s a good trade-off?¡±

    ¡°Uh¡­sure,¡± Horell replied before letting out a sigh. At this moment, the two of them were slowly traveling through the corridor that led to the small ecosystem of the alliance. Of course, that¡¯s when their speed ispared to how fast they normally travel, with the two of them being reliant on teleportation.

    While they were slowly traveling through the corridor, a thought popped up in Horell¡¯s mind after the two of them were finished conversing on what Aurus was going to do next, prompting him to focus his sense of vision towards Aurus and tell him, ¡°Now that I think about it, Herellia is going to evolve soon as well.¡±

    ¡°Eh?¡± Hearing this piece of news, Aurus was at a slight loss for words. He knew that Herellia would evolve to a greater existence level eventually, but after the war against Chonk? Wasn¡¯t that a bit too soon?

    ¡°Why is she going to evolve so soon?¡± Aurus could not help but ask Horell, to which Horell replied with a tone of unsureness, ¡°She¡¯s probably evolving for the same reason you¡¯re evolving to X-grade Inanimate. To umte more power.¡±

    ¡°Is it for the alliance?¡± Pondering over what Horell said in response to Aurus¡¯s question, this was the first question that came to his mind. In response to this, Horell said something that slightly surprised him.

    ¡°I don¡¯t know.¡±

    ¡°You don¡¯t know?¡± Aurus said in response, to which he added, ¡°But you¡¯re the closest being to Herellia?¡±

    ¡°Well, I don¡¯t really see an obligation for her to tell me everything she does,¡± Horell responded to Aurus¡¯s question. He then added, ¡°She just does it because we¡¯re just that close. If she decides to hide something from me, then I¡¯ll respect that. Who knows, it might just be a surprise for the alliance.¡±

    ¡°Ah, we¡¯ve entered the ecosystem,¡± Horell said not long after the two of them had exited the corridor. Not long after that, Horell went ahead and said to Aurus, ¡°I guess we¡¯ll both part ways here. I need to tell Herellia about what you¡¯re doing. Anyways, good luck with your evolution.¡±

    ¡°Thanks,¡± Aurus replied to Horell¡¯s words of well-wishes as he radiated an aura of slight happiness. A few seconds after that, Horell disappeared in front of his field of vision, appearing in a ce far away from where he was not long after. After looking at Horell¡¯s hastily fleeting silhouette for a while, Aurus muttered to himself, ¡°I should go and get ready for evolution as well. I still need to finish a step before evolving.¡±

    Whoosh!

    And just like that, Aurus disappeared from where he was, gradually making his way towards a room within the Tower of Seclusion, the ce where he would usually grind his skills.

    ¡­

    Whoosh!

    It did not take long for Aurus to appear within the Tower of Seclusion, letting out a sigh of slight wonder as he recalled what had happened about an hour ago. To him, it was the first time he had truly went all-out in terms of power. It was also the time when he realized that his body was his limiting factor, giving him even more reason to evolve to X-grade Inanimate as soon as possible.

    ¡°Theresa,¡± Aurus said all of a sudden. In response to this, Theresa turned its head to look at Aurus with a curious gaze as it replied, ¡°Yes, Master?¡±

    ¡°Bring up the Ally Gacha,¡± Aurus replied to Theresa¡¯s question not long after. As hemanded Theresa, he was thinking over the third step of his n of solidifying his foundation before his evolution, wondering if he truly had enough unused experience points to do what he wanted to do.

    Of course, the thing that he wanted to do in this third step, other than max out Fenrir and Charisa¡¯s levels, was to summon more Allies until he had reached the limit. Then again, the limit as to how much Allies a yer can have in ISE was 5, which was also the case for a max-level fusion attack, so Aurus just needed to summon 3 more allies before he would reach the cap.

    ¡°As you wish, Master!¡± Theresa said in response to hismand, a fun-looking screen appearing in front of his field of vision not long after. Unsurprisingly, the design on the screen attracted Aurus¡¯s attention, prompting Theresa to go ahead and exin the things that were on the screen.

    ¡°Due to Master evolving to S-grade Inanimate, the costs for the Gachas have been reduced! The Normal Gacha only needs 100 FP for a single summon, while the Premium Gacha now uses FP instead of the previous Life and Will points!¡± Theresa proceeded to exin. ¡°The Premium Gacha now costs 1,000 FP per summon¡­but that¡¯s not all! Since Master has done a lot in the War of Tempest Cliff, the system thought that the rewards Master has obtained wascking. And so, in response to that, the system has decided to add in two more banners to the Ally Gacha!¡±

    Whoosh!

    And just like that, two more screens appeared beside the fun-looking screen, both of them having more exquisite yet fun-looking designs whenpared to the first screen. At the instant these two screens had appeared, Theresa went ahead and said, ¡°The first banner is the Super Premium Gacha! In this Gacha, the rate for A-grade to Omega-grade banners have been greatly increased! The cost for a single summon in this gacha is 10,000 FP and 5 Life and Will points!¡±

    ¡°As for the second banner¡­¡± Theresa then went ahead and moved the rightmost screen to the center, allowing Aurus¡¯s field of vision to be filled with the sight of the screen. After doing so, Theresa then continued, ¡°This is the Ultra Premium Gacha! In this gacha, the rate for S-grade to Omega-grade banners have been greatly increased! Not only that, but the chance of obtaining an Omega-grade Ally has been tripled as well! As for the cost¡­it¡¯s 100,000 FP and 25 Life and Will points!¡±

    Listening to the banners being exined by Theresa one by one, it did not take long for Aurus to decide as to what type of Gacha he was going to summon in.

    ¡°I can regenerate a lot of FP, plus I could regenerate my Life and Will points in the Life and Will Fountain as well,¡± Aurus muttered to himself. ¡°I¡¯ve decided!¡±

    ¡°Do one summon on the Ultra Premium Gacha banner!¡± Aurus soon shouted, to which Theresa boisterously replied, ¡°As you wish, Master!¡±

    Whoosh!

    Not long after Theresa¡¯s reply, the content on the center screen had changed into that of an egg, a glimmering golden egg to be exact. This egg gradually intensified in its shaking before eventually cracking open and revealing a line of text on the screen. Aurus then went ahead and read the words on the screen, only for him to look at Theresa on his left shoulder with an aura of doubt as he asked, ¡°Are you really sure that the rates have increased?¡±

    Ding!

    ¡®Congrattions! You have obtained an Ally with B-grade potential, [Eu]!¡¯

 Chapter 208: New Allies

    Chapter 208: New Allies

    Ding!

    ¡®Congrattions! You have obtained an Ally with B-grade potential, [Eu]!¡¯

    ¡°¡­¡± Looking at the result that had appeared on the center screen in front of his field of vision, Aurus was left at a loss for words, unable toprehend how he had obtained an Ally with B-grade potential from a gacha that had its rates for S-grade to Omega-grade Allies greatly increased. Not long after, he could not help but look at Theresa on his left shoulder and ask it, ¡°Are you really sure that the rates have increased, Theresa?¡±

    ¡°I can tell you without a doubt, Master, that the rates have definitely increased!¡± Theresa responded to Aurus¡¯s question, radiating an aura that feels like it has been wronged. It then added, ¡°If you want to, Master, you could check on the chances of pulling an Ally of a certain potential!¡±

    ¡°That would be for the best, Theresa,¡± Aurus responded to its words, still pondering as to why he had pulled such an Ally. Was it because of bad luck? Or was it because of bad rates? Either way, he followed up with his words, saying, ¡°I won¡¯t be pulling the first three gacha banners, so remove the screens on the left and right and rece it with the rates.¡±

    ¡°As you wish, Master,¡± Theresa replied to Aurus¡¯s words, gesturing with its hands for a few seconds before snapping its fingers, changing the contents on the leftmost and rightmost screens in front of Aurus¡¯s field of vision to reflect the rates of the current gacha banner he was pulling on.

    It did not take long for Aurus to read through the content written on the two screens, eventually getting to the conclusion that he was just incredibly unlucky. Letting out a sigh, he muttered, ¡°Over 60% of the chances are leaning towards the Allies with S-grade potential and above, with Omega-grade Allies even having a 3% chance to be pulled. As for the remaining 40 percent, it¡¯s split up in a reverse pyramid order for the lowest three grades, 17.5% for A-grade, 12.5% for B-grade, and just 10% for C-grade.¡±

    After looking at the rates, he could not help but look at Theresa and say, ¡°I apologize for indirectly taking out my anger on you, Theresa. I guess it was just me being unlucky.¡±

    ¡°No worries, Master. I can understand how you feel,¡± Theresa responded to Aurus¡¯s words before adding, ¡°Pulling an Ally with a low grade does feel really bad.¡±

    ¡°It definitely does,¡± Aurus replied before letting out a short chuckle. He then psyched himself up for the next pull he was going at, radiating an aura of expectation as he told Theresa, ¡°Alright, Theresa! Do another summon!¡±

    ¡°Understood, Master!¡± Theresa replied to Aurus¡¯s words as a glimmering golden egg appeared on the center screen yet again, gradually intensifying in its shaking before cracking open as another line of text appeared. It did not take long for Aurus to read the line of text with great expectation¡­only to have his expectations be brought down once again.

    Ding!

    ¡®Congrattions! You have obtained an Ally with A-grade potential, [Phoria]!¡¯

    ¡°¡­Are you really really sure that the rates have increased, Theresa?¡± Aurus could not help but ask Theresa once more, seeing that he had pulled another Ally below A-grade potential. In response to this, Theresa surprisingly let out a boisterous chuckle, making Aurus radiated an aura of confusion as he asked Theresa, ¡°Why are you chuckling?¡±

    ¡°Congrattions, Master! You¡¯ve snagged a good one!¡± Theresa responded to its master¡¯s question, to which Aurus responded, ¡°A good one? What do you mean? Isn¡¯t thetest Ally I pulled someone with A-grade potential?¡±

    ¡°That is indeed the case, Master,¡± Theresa replied to his words before adding, ¡°But if you already have Eu as an ally, something magical happens.¡±

    ¡°Something magical?¡± Aurus could not help but ponder, only for Theresa to let out a short giggle as it snapped its fingers, a notification sound resounding throughout Aurus¡¯s mind not long after. He then went ahead and opened up the notification screen in his mind, hastily reading through it before focusing his sense of vision on Theresa and saying, ¡°You should¡¯ve told me that was the case! What if I didn¡¯t pull Phoria then?¡±

    ¡°To be honest, those are the only two Allies on the banner that are of A-grade potential, Master,¡± Theresa replied to his words with a smile on its face. It then added, ¡°As for B-grade and C-grade potential Allies, there are only one of them in each grade, but both of them can increase their potential up to S-grade. So if you even pulled a C-grade or a B-grade Ally, you would still get an S-grade Ally at the very least, Master!¡±

    ¡°¡­¡± Aurus was left at a loss for words after Theresa exined how the banner truly worked. It seemed that even if he was unlucky, he would still get a minimum of S-grade if he used enough resources to nurture them. Nevertheless, after reading the notification in his mind, he could not help but shout inwardly, ¡®If this was the system used in ISE in my previous life, it would¡¯ve definitely broken the kompu gachaw!¡¯

    Ding!

    ¡®Congrattions to the user for having Eu and Phoria as your allies! Due to the resonance between the two of them, the two of them have fused into an Ally with SS-grade potential, [Eu & Phoria]!¡¯

    Eventually, he closed the notification in his mind before letting out a sigh as he checked how much Life and Will points he had left. Noticing that he still had quite a decent amount of it left, he then looked at Theresa on his left shoulder before saying, ¡°You should¡¯ve told me that that was the case in the first ce, Theresa. You really had me scared there.¡±

    ¡°Hehe.¡± Theresa giggled in response. It then added, ¡°I also need to have some fun of my own as well, Master. Anyways, are you going to pull another one from the gacha?¡±

    ¡°Yeah, until I cap out on how much Allies I can have at once,¡± Aurus replied to Theresa¡¯s question, to which Theresa responded, ¡°I¡¯ll take that as a yes, Master!¡±

    And so, another glimmering golden egg had appeared on the center screen in front of his field of vision, gradually intensifying in its shaking before cracking open to reveal a line of text as usual. Fortunately, this time, at the very instant Aurus had skimmed through the line of text, he let out a sigh of relief before looking at Theresa and saying, ¡°You must¡¯ve rigged this summon for sure, Theresa.¡±

    ¡°Who knows, Master? It could be due to me, or it was just up to your luck,¡± Theresa responded to Aurus¡¯s words before letting out a chuckle.

    Ding!

    ¡®Congrattions! You have obtained an Ally with SS-grade potential, [Terrence]!¡¯

    ¡°One slot left before I cap out on how much Allies I can have,¡± Aurus muttered as he looked at the Ally screen, quite d to now have three SS-grade Allies and one S-grade Ally. At this point, Aurus did not care whether he obtained an Ally with a low grade. Either way, he would still end up with an S-grade Ally at the very least.

    ¡°Final summon, Theresa,¡± Aurus said to Theresa before adding, ¡°I hope the luck of the heavens blesses me!¡±

    ¡°I wish you good luck, Master!¡± Theresa said in response to its master¡¯s words before snapping its fingers, a glimmering golden egg appearing on the center screen as usual¡­only for it to radiate various colors as it gradually intensified in its shaking. Noticing this, Aurus could not help but be in slight shock.

    ¡®Does the rainbow color mean anything? Am I going to get something special?¡¯ Aurus could not help but think to himself, only for the thought to be reinforced by Theresa¡¯s words, shouting in slight shock, ¡°Master! It¡¯s a rainbow egg! You¡¯re going to get an X-grade Ally at the very least, Master!¡±

    It was then that Aurus¡¯s expectations of thest Ally he was going to summon had shot up to incredibly great heights as the rainbow egg had finally cracked, revealing a line of text that Aurus had read in an instant not long after. After reading through the line of text, Aurus was left at a loss for words as he muttered, ¡°A 3% chance¡­Omega-grade¡­?¡±

    Ding!

    ¡®Congrattions! You have obtained an Ally with Omega-grade potential, [Marielle ciesta]!¡¯

    As he continued to read the line of text, he continued to be more shocked, muttering, ¡°A C-grade Inanimate¡­with two names at the start¡­¡±

    Eventually, Aurus let out a sigh¡­of awe. He could not believe that thest Ally he had summoned was an Ally that had the highest grade of potential possible at the current level of his system, Omega-grade. It seemed that the luck of the heavens had indeed blessed hisst summon.

    After summoning hisst Ally, he then went ahead and asked Theresa to close all of the screens in front of his field of vision. It did not take long for Theresa to close all of it since it only had to snap its fingers to do so. Not long after the screens were closed, Aurus thenmanded Theresa, ¡°Theresa, summon Fenrir and Charisa.¡±

    ¡°As you wish, Master,¡± Theresa replied to Aurus¡¯s words before gesturing with its hands once more, instantly revealing two beings that radiated an aura around half to three-fourths of the intensity of Aurus¡¯s aura, in front of his field of vision.

    Whoosh!

    At the very instant he looked at the two, he could not help but notice that the appearances of the two have somewhat changed. The first being, which used to look like a regal wolf, now looked like a more regal wolf, emanating an aura of magnanimity as Wind energy particles interacted with its body. As for the second being, a curvy piece of wood covered in ck and white mes, the curves of the stick had be more pronounced while the intensity of the mes has risen by a notch or two. Aurus could not help but feel the mes on this piece of wood could burn him.

    ¡°Fenrir Zephyron greets you, Master,¡± the first being respectfully bowed before saying these words.

    ¡°Charisa merei greets you, Master,¡± the second being said after the first being was done, respectfully bowing as well.

    ¡°No need to bow to me, Fenrir. Charisa,¡± Aurus said to the two of them, which left them radiating auras of slight confusion. In response to their auras, Aurus went ahead and said, ¡°We¡¯re inside the Tower of Seclusion, which means there¡¯s no need for formalities whatsoever.¡±

    ¡°Anyways, I¡¯ve summoned the two of you out of the system for a very special reason,¡± Aurus added, to which the two radiated auras of interest.

    ¡°What might it be, Master~?¡± Charisa was the first one who asked Aurus this question, to which Fenrir nodded in response, telling Aurus that he had the same thoughts as well. Without dy, Aurus let out a chuckle before saying, ¡°I¡¯ve summoned the two of you out of the system because we¡¯re going to meet the three newrades you two are going to have!¡±

    ¡°Oh?¡± Fenrir and Charisa simultaneously said, with Fenrir wagging his wooden tail back and forth in excitement while Charisa¡¯s head me intensified in brightness due to excitement as well. In response to their excitement, Aurus went ahead and said, ¡°System, summon Eu & Phoria, Terrence, and Marielle!¡±

    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!

    It did not take long for three rays of light to appear out of Aurus¡¯s body, with each ray of light directed towards a certain spot in the room Aurus was in. Fortunately, these three rays of light were directed at the center of Aurus, Fenrir, and Charisa, allowing the three of them to get a good view of the three new Allies.

    Whoosh!

    Soon enough, the three new Allies had revealed themselves to the three, with Charisa saying at the very instant the new Allies had revealed themselves to them, ¡°Master, they look¡­weak.¡±

    ¡°How dare you call me weak!¡± Surprisingly, one of the three new Allies had responded to Charisa¡¯s words, which surprised Aurus as he knew very well that these allies were all at the C-grade Inanimate level. Not long after that, two voices from the new Allies resounded, saying, ¡°Master¡­not powered up¡­us¡­yet¡­¡±

    It did not take long for Aurus to find out who from the new Allies were responding to Charisa¡¯s words, with the one replying in an eloquent manner being the one with an Omega-grade potential, [Marielle ciesta]. As for the two voices that replied at the same time, that came from the A-grade turned SS-grade, [Eu & Phoria].

    In response to this, Aurus could not help but focus his sense of vision on the remaining Ally that hasn¡¯t talked yet. He went ahead and asked this new Ally, ¡°Can you speak as well, Terrence?¡±

    ¡°¡­¡± Terrence, who was the only Ally that hasn¡¯t spoken yet, remained silent for a few seconds. Eventually, a word came out of this Ally, saying, ¡°¡­Yes.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m quite surprised the new Allies you¡¯ve summoned can already speak, Master,¡± Fenrir could not help but say, slightly surprised. He then added, ¡°Anyways, why did you summon them, Master?¡±

    ¡°In preparation for my next evolution,¡± Aurus responded to Fenrir¡¯s question. He then added, ¡°Well, that¡¯s the first reason. The second reason is for our fusion attack to grow stronger, while the third reason is for you two to have morerades to work with.¡±

    ¡°I see¡­¡± Fenrir muttered in response. Surprisingly, after Fenrir was finished asking Aurus this question, a voice resounded throughout the room, asking Aurus, ¡°Uh¡­are you my Master? Can you go ahead and increase my power as fast as possible? I want to show these two inferior beings who¡¯s superior.¡±

    ¡°Hm?¡± Not expecting the question, Aurus could not help but ask, ¡°Who said that?¡±

    ¡°It is I, Marielle ciesta, Master,¡± Marielle responded to Aurus¡¯s question, whose appearance was a puddle of water.

    ¡°And by inferior beings, who are you referring to?¡± Aurus could not help but follow up with this question. In response, Marielle said, ¡°Of course, it is the two beings beside me that are on the same level. I can¡¯t believe these two are standing on the same ground as me.¡±

    ¡°I have a feeling I won¡¯t like this puddle of water, Master,¡± Charisa could not help but say. As for the two Allies beside Marielle, Eu & Phoria replied with, ¡°How rude¡­you¡¯re no¡­different¡­¡±

    While Terrence replied with one word, saying, ¡°¡­Rude.¡±

    Feeling that this situation might escte, Aurus let out a long sigh before saying, ¡°Alright, alright. Marielle has a point. That¡¯s what I¡¯m nning to do before evolving anyway.¡±

    He then focused his sense of vision towards Charisa and Fenrir before asking them, ¡°I have a ton of unused experience points to max out your levels. Is it fine if I evolve them first before I max you two out?¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t see any problem with that, Master,¡± Fenrir said in response to Aurus¡¯s words. He then added, ¡°I¡¯m also quite curious as to how they look at a higher grade, Master.¡±

    ¡°I feel the same way, Master!¡± Charisa voiced out that she shared the same opinion as Fenrir. But then, her sense of vision was soon focused on the puddle of water before she sent a strand of energy towards Aurus, saying, ¡°Though I feel like that arrogant puddle of water would probably be ugly at a higher grade.¡±

    In response to Charisa¡¯s secret message, Aurus let out an awkward chuckle before taking in a deep breath through his body. He then said, ¡°Alright, it¡¯s time for you three to be stronger.¡±

    ¡°Theresa, max out the levels of these three new allies,¡± Aurus soon said to Theresa, who was on her left shoulder. Theresa soon responded, ¡°As you wish, Master!¡±

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    While Theresa was allocating the unused experience points Aurus had towards the three new allies he had summoned, Charisa could not help but notice Theresa and ask him, ¡°What¡¯s that on your shoulder, Master?¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s Theresa. My personal assistant,¡± Aurus responded to her question before adding, ¡°It¡¯s more or less the personification of the system I have.¡±

    ¡°I see,¡± Charisa said in response to Aurus¡¯s words. Not long after, she went closer to Theresa before saying in a cheerful tone, ¡°Hello there! I¡¯m Charisa, one of Master¡¯s Allies! Nice to meet you!¡±

    Surprisingly, while Theresa was still allocating the unused experience points, it turned its head to look at Charisa before smiling and saying, ¡°It¡¯s nice to meet you as well, Charisa~¡±

    Ding!

    Just as Charisa felt that Theresa was incredibly cute, Theresa looked at Aurus before saying, ¡°Eu & Phoria, Terrence, and Marielle have now reached their maximum levels, Master. Would you like to evolve them?¡±

    Without hesitation, Aurus let out a chuckle before responding, ¡°Of course.¡±

    ¡°As you wish, Master,¡± Theresa responded as the three new Allies in the center had changed their appearances after their evolution.

    The first one to change was Eu & Phoria, whose appearance a pair of wilted flowers at the C-grade Inanimate level. After evolving to B-grade Inanimate, they had transformed into two flowers that were slightly dead with a bit of grass on their roots.

    As for Terrence, whose appearance was a small pebble at C-grade Inanimate level, had now transformed into a slightlyrger pebble.

    Andstly, Marielle, whose appearance was a puddle of water at C-grade Inanimate level, had transformed into a slightlyrger puddle of water.

    Aurus could not help but look at the three and mutter to himself, ¡°Why do they look like they belong to some sort of miniature garden?¡±

 Chapter 209: Future Plans and Surprises

    Chapter 209: Future ns and Surprises

    Looking at their new appearances, a thought came into Charisa¡¯s mind, prompting her to focus her sense of vision towards Aurus before asking him, ¡°Master, now that I think about it, you haven¡¯t told us their names yet.¡±

    Realizing his mistake, Aurus let out a light chuckle before replying to Charisa¡¯s statement, saying, ¡°My bad, my bad. That thought went over my head, to be honest.¡±

    He then went focused his sense of vision towards the new Allies he had summoned before saying, ¡°Go ahead and introduce yourselves to your newrades.¡± He then added not long after, ¡°But before that, let me introduce your newrades before you go ahead and introduce yourselves.¡±

    Whoosh!

    Manifesting a tendril out of SP, Aurus went ahead and pointed the tendril towards Charisa before saying, ¡°This curvy looking piece of wood covered in mes is Charisa. Just like her appearance, she specializes in the Fire element.¡±

    ¡°Not just any Fire element, Master, but the Yin-Yang me element~!¡± Charisa said in response to Aurus¡¯s words before looking at the three new Allies and saying, ¡°Anyways, my full name is Charisa merei. If you need any help with anything rted to mes, I¡¯m the one you should ask!¡±

    Just as the three new Allies were about to respond to her words, Aurus went ahead and interrupted them from doing so, pointing his tendril towards Fenrir this time. He then said, ¡°As for this royal looking wolf here, that¡¯s Fenrir, the first Ally to be summoned by me. He specializes in the Wind element, just like me, your master.¡±

    In response to Aurus¡¯s words, Fenrir went ahead and radiated an aura of slight tion as he looked at the three new Allies summoned by Aurus and said, ¡°My full name is Fenrir Zephyron. I¡¯m quite d to be one of yourrades from now on.¡±

    After Fenrir was finished talking, Aurus then let out a chuckle as he pointed his tendril towards the pair of flowers with grass on their roots. Not long after, he said, ¡°With their introductions now over, it¡¯s time for you three to introduce yourselves to them. For now, it¡¯s fine if you just tell them your names. Let¡¯s start with you first, er¡­¡±

    Noticing that Aurus intentionally hemmed and hawed at thest bit of his statement, the pair of flowers took this chance to continue where he left off, with one of the two flowers, whose petals were of a pastel yellow color, said, ¡°My name is Eu. So far, I don¡¯t have ast name yet.¡±

    Not long after Eu was finished speaking, the other flower beside it, whose petals were of a pastel red color, continued where it left off, uttering in a slightly timid voice, ¡°As for me¡­my name is Phoria¡­I¡¯m quite shy, but I¡¯ll do my best in protecting Master¡­¡±

    Listening as to how Eu & Phoria were now talking whenpared to their previous evolution, Aurus could not help but ponder as to why they were quite fluent in speaking at the B-grade Inanimate level. He then remembered that Charisa had to evolve to A-grade to at least be able to speak fluently, eventually forming a usible conclusion in his mind that the reason why they can speak fluently has something to do with the fact that they¡¯re two Allies in one.

    After Eu & Phoria were finished talking, Aurus then pointed his tendril towards the slightlyrger pebble in the middle, saying, ¡°Please introduce yourself to the others.¡±

    ¡°Alright,¡± the decently sized pebble said in response to Aurus¡¯s words, slightly shocking him since he didn¡¯t expect the pebble to have a slightly deep voice. It then continued talking, introducing itself to the others by saying, ¡°Nice to meet you all. My name is Terrence. Just like Eu & Phoria beside me, I don¡¯t have ast name yet.¡±

    It then let out a light chuckle before continuing, ¡°But that doesn¡¯t mean I wouldn¡¯t do my best in serving and protecting the master.¡±

    ¡°Nice to meet you as well, Terrence,¡± Fenrir could not help but say in response to Terrence¡¯s statement. He then added, ¡°I have a feeling we¡¯re going to get along.¡±

    ¡°I have the same feeling as well,¡± Terrence replied before letting out another light chuckle. It then asked Fenrir, ¡°Is it fine if I call you Fenrir?¡±

    ¡°You can call me however you like,¡± Fenrir said in response to Terrence¡¯s question, letting out a chuckle of his own not long after.

    ¡°Ehem. Aren¡¯t you guys forgetting someone?¡± Just as the two were about to continue talking with one another, a slightly haughty voice resounded throughout the room, prompting everyone to focus their sense of vision towards the one who just talked. In response to this, Aurus let out a sigh inwardly, wondering why this puddle of water had such a unique personality. He then pointed his tendril towards it before saying, ¡°Go ahead and introduce yourself.¡±

    ¡°My name is Marielle ciesta,¡± the puddle of water said in response to Aurus¡¯s words. It then continued, ¡°Unlike these two inferior beings beside me, I can offer greater protection to the master. Of course, once I reach my maximum evolution, I¡¯m pretty sure I can even offer greater protection than wolf and mes over there.¡±

    ¡°Are you looking for a fight or something?¡± Charisa could not help but ask Marielle, conjuring a ball of mes that flickered between ck and white as she added, ¡°If you want a fight, I¡¯ll give you a fight, you fucking bi¡ª¡±

    ¡°Stop that, Charisa,¡± Aurus interrupted Charisa as he radiated the full extent of his aura, using the tendril he had conjured to dispel the ball of mes Charisa had manipted. While his aura was at full power, he then focused it towards Marielle, saying, ¡°I don¡¯t see anything wrong with having a little bit ofpetition since that would allow everyone to be stronger. But never ever underestimate yourrades, okay?¡±

    With Aurus¡¯s aura making Marielle feel ufortable, it instilled a sense of fear in Marielle, prompting it to reply with a stutter, ¡°I¡­understand. I won¡¯t do it¡­ever again.¡±

    ¡°As long as you understand,¡± Aurus replied to Marielle¡¯s words as he let out a short sigh, retracting his aura before looking at the three with an aura of tion, a stark contrast to the aura he was radiating a while ago. He then said, ¡°Let¡¯s get you three evolved to X-grade as soon as possible.¡±

    Not long after, he turned his focus towards Theresa,manding it, ¡°Theresa, use all of the experience points I have to max out their levels. Also, evolve them to X-grade as fast as possible. No need to ask me whether to evolve them or not.¡±

    ¡°As you wish, Master,¡± Theresa responded to Aurus¡¯smand, gesturing with its hands as strands of yellow energy manifested around Aurus¡¯s body before making their way towards the bodies of the three new Allies he had summoned. Of course, these strands of yellow energy were the unused experience points Aurus had, but in a condensed form, allowing them to max out their levels in an instant.

    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!

    A few secondster, their bodies had turned into balls of light, gradually changing in their structure as they made their way to the level of A-grade Inanimate. Surprisingly, while Aurus was watching their evolution process, a familiar voice resounded in his mind.

    ¡°Hey, Aurus!¡± the voice said in a cheerful tone, prompting Aurus to reply to the voice with a light chuckle, saying, ¡°What¡¯s up, Herellia. Why¡¯d you contact me?¡±

    ¡°Well, I heard from Horell as to what you were going to do,¡± Herellia replied to Aurus¡¯s question. She then added, ¡°I heard from him that you¡¯re going to evolve soon.¡±

    ¡°Yeah,¡± Aurus responded to her statement with affirmation. He then told her, ¡°While I was making my way towards the Tower of Seclusion, I also heard from Horell that you were going to evolve soon as well.¡±

    In response to Aurus¡¯s words, Herellia let out a sigh before saying, ¡°As expected from him. Either way, it saves me time from exining what I¡¯m going to do.¡±

    ¡°What existence level are you going to evolve into?¡± Aurus could not help but ask after listening to Herellia¡¯s words. Not long after, Herellia replied, ¡°The Animate level, of course.¡±

    ¡°Are you prepared for the Existence Tribtion that is toe while you evolve?¡± Aurus asked after hearing her response, to which Herellia replied, ¡°Of course I am. Though we¡¯d have to do it far away from the alliance base since I don¡¯t want the base to be destroyed just like how Zelefaire ascended to the Animate level.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s understandable,¡± Aurus replied to her words before asking her, ¡°But who¡¯s Zelefaire?¡±

    ¡°He was the first member in the alliance to ascend to the Animate existence level, having the rare species of Magnus Fortressi at X-grade Inanimate. Due to him being a rare species, his Existence Tribtion was far more destructive than what we thought, destroying 90% of the alliance base at the time,¡± Herellia said in a slightly mncholic tone as if she was reminiscing.

    Noticing the slightly mncholic tone in her words, Aurus could not help but ask her, ¡°Was he unsessful?¡±

    ¡°No, he was sessful,¡± Herellia replied to Aurus¡¯s question before adding, ¡°He became a decently strong Rank 0 Animate after that. But due to what had happened to the base, I had to kick him out.¡±

    ¡°I see¡­¡± Aurus responded to her words not long after. After that, a moment of silence ensued between the two of them, with Herellia eventually breaking the silence as she let out a sigh, asking him, ¡°The past is the past, let¡¯s move on. How did it go in the Comprehension Leaf inheritance? Did you max out yourprehension speed?¡±

    Not expecting to get this sort of question, it took a while for Aurus toe up with an answer. At the moment he came up with one, he let out a slight chuckle before replying with a slightly confident tone, ¡°It went very well. Not only was I able to reach the maximum limit of 30 times, but I¡¯ve gone and exceeded it as well.¡±

    ¡°Eh?¡± Listening to Aurus¡¯s response, Herellia could not believe what she was hearing. In response to his words, she asked him, ¡°You exceeded the limit? By how much?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m at 40 times the normalprehension speed right now,¡± Aurus replied to her question, his tone gradually bing more confident¡­and somewhatcent. ¡°You wanna know how I did it?¡±

    Before Herellia could even say yes to the question, Aurus went ahead and answered it, letting out a proudugh in his mind as he said, ¡°I¡¯ve absorbed the Comprehension Leaf thates after Transcending.¡±

    ¡°What?!¡± Herellia was in utter disbelief over what Aurus said. Although she knew that there were higher grades of Comprehension Leaves after Transcending, she did not know that these higher grades existed in the Comprehension Leaf inheritance as well. Taking in a deep breath, Herellia went ahead and asked him with a tone of curiosity, ¡°Can you perhaps¡­tell me¡­what its name is?¡±

    ¡°All-seeing,¡± Aurus briefly replied. He then added, ¡°I also know the name of the grade thates after All-seeing, but the inheritance doesn¡¯t have it. It¡¯s called All-knowing.¡±

    ¡°All-seeing¡­All-knowing,¡± Herellia muttered a few times, trying tomit these names into her mind. As shemitted these memories into her mind, a spark of inspiration shed in her mind, prompting her to ask Aurus with slight eagerness, ¡°Hey, Aurus¡­could you uh¡­apany me to that inheritance and uh¡­get me some of those All-seeing Comprehension Leaves?¡±

    ¡°Well¡­¡± Listening to Herellia¡¯s request, Aurus could not help but be in favor of declining it since he was going to evolve soon. With that in mind, he asked her, ¡°Are we going to go right now?¡±

    ¡°It doesn¡¯t have to be right now,¡± Herellia responded to his question before adding, ¡°It could be after your evolution.¡±

    Seeing that Herellia did not care about whether it was before or after his evolution, Aurus let out a sigh of relief before pondering as to whether he would apany her or not. It did not take long for Aurus toe to a conclusion as he remembered that he had partial ownership over the inheritance.

    Letting out a small chuckle, he soon said, ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll apany you to the inheritance after I evolve. It¡¯s up to your abilities to get an All-seeing Comprehension Leaf, though.¡±

    ¡°No worries,¡± Herellia replied to his words before adding, ¡°I believe I can get them after what I¡¯ve gone through.¡±

    Just as Aurus was about to continue his conversation with Herellia, Theresa looked at Aurus and said, ¡°Master, all three Allies have now reached the X-grade Inanimate level. Not only that, but I¡¯ve maxed out their levels as well.¡±

    Hearing those words, Aurus could not help but say to Herellia in an apologetic tone, ¡°Ah, I apologize Herellia but it seems I have to cut our conversation short. I still have some important stuff to do.¡±

    ¡°Ah! Was I disturbing you?¡± Herellia soon replied to Aurus¡¯s words with a question before continuing, ¡°No need to reply, I understand you¡¯re preparing for your evolution. I hope you evolve to an incredibly great species.¡±

    After that, the connection between the two had been cut, ending their conversation. In response to that, Aurus could not help but let out a short sigh before muttering, ¡°After I evolve, I should probably try my best to get her at least one All-seeing Comprehension Leaf. I guess that¡¯s a decent apology for what I just did.¡±

    ¡°Anyways, it¡¯s time to look at these¡ªwoah.¡± At the very instant Aurus focused his sense of vision towards the newly evolved Allies of his, he was left at a loss for words, greatly surprised by how different they looked from their B-grade Inanimate appearances.

    Eu & Phoria, who used to look like two flowers with grass on their roots, now looked like two exquisite sculptures made out of vines, appearing as two beautiful women in cheerful poses with a red and yellow flower on top of their heads respectively. Noticing that Aurus was looking at them, Eu & Phoria went ahead and introduced themselves to him, with Eu saying, ¡°Let me introduce myself properly this time, Master! My name is Eu Lucerna!¡±

    Not long after Eu was finished introducing, Phoria went ahead and introduced herself as well, talking in a less timid tone, ¡°I share the samest name as Eu, Master. Phoria Lucerna¡­at your service!¡±

    ¡°d to have you two protecting me,¡± Aurus said in response to their words. Just as he was about to move on to Terrence, a thought popped up in his mind, prompting him to ask the two, ¡°Eu. Phoria. I have a question.¡±

    ¡°What is it, Master?¡± the two of them asked simultaneously, to which Aurus responded, ¡°Can you two split up and move in different directions?¡±

    Pop!

    Apanied by a popping sound, the two of them separated from each other, moving in opposite directions before saying, ¡°Indeed, we can, Master!¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s good to know,¡± Aurus soon said in response to their words. With his curiosity now satiated, he then focused his sense of vision towards Terrence. At the very instant heid his sense of vision towards Terrence, Aurus could not help but say, ¡°You¡¯re very handsome.¡±

    ¡°You must be jesting, Master,¡± Terrence said in response to Aurus¡¯spliment. Terrence¡¯s current appearance was a stark contrast to his B-grade Inanimate appearance, being an exquisite sculpture made out of a fine piece of stone. All of the areas on his body were chiseled to perfection, with the special area covered by arge piece of rock. Nheless, that did not hide the aura of exquisiteness that he was radiating.

    ¡°Let me introduce myself properly, Master. My name is Terrence Castras,¡± Terrence said not long after, to which Aurus replied, ¡°Castras, quite a goodst name.¡±

    ¡°Thank you for thepliment, Master,¡± Terrence said in response to Aurus¡¯s words. After that, Aurus then moved ahead and focused his sense of vision towards the Ally that had undergone the same level of drastic change as Terrence, saying, ¡°You¡¯re quite beautiful, Marielle.¡±

    ¡°That is something to be expected, Master,¡± Marielle said in response to Aurus¡¯s words before letting out a light chuckle. She then went ahead and bowed, shocking Aurus as she introduced herself to him, saying, ¡°As you know, my name is Marielle ciesta. But at this current evolution of mine, I have obtained the title of Marchioness, awakening the great ciesta bloodline. Please greet me ording to my title, Master.¡±

    Although he was quite surprised that Marielle had obtained a title, it was something to be expected from how high her potential grade was. What surprised Aurus the most was the fact that she could move like a living being. Considering her current appearance, which was basically a humanoid form but made out of water with great facial features, the only thing she needed was the right skin color and she would probably fit in with the Animates.

    ¡°She looks more like a Pseudo-Animate than an Inanimate to me,¡± Aurus muttered to Theresa before asking it, ¡°Does it have something with the bloodline she was talking about, Theresa?¡±

    ¡°That is indeed the case, Master,¡± Theresa responded to his words before exining, ¡°All Allies that are of SSS-grade potential and higher have bloodlines. If you have two or more Allies that have the same bloodline, a resonance shall form between the two of them, creating a fusion attack that has power surpassing normal fusion attacks.¡±

    ¡°I see,¡± Aurus said after going over Theresa¡¯s exnation in his head a few times. He then went ahead and looked at the three of them as a whole before asking them, ¡°Eu. Phoria. Terrence. Marielle. Do you have any problem with me checking your Ally skills?¡±

    In response to his question, the four of them responded simultaneously, ¡°No problem at all, Master!¡±

    ¡°d to know,¡± Aurus chuckled as he replied to their words. He then looked at Theresa andmanded, ¡°Theresa, open up their Ally skills. Oh, and also, open up Fenrir and Charisa¡¯s Ally skills as well.¡±

    ¡°As you wish, Master,¡± Theresa soon acted upon Aurus¡¯s request as five decently sized screens filled to the brim with information appeared in front of his field of vision not long after.

    Whoosh!

    After reading through all of their Ally skills, only one thought enteredAurus¡¯s mind as he took in a deep breath from awe.

    ¡®Holy fucking shit.¡¯

 Chapter 210: Aint I Too Broken?

    Chapter 210: Ain¡¯t I Too Broken?

    Ding!

    As five small yet slightly corporeal screens appeared in front of Aurus¡¯s field of vision, he did not hesitate to read through their descriptions, as well as the effects each of their Ally skills give. It did not take long for a single thought to consume the entirety of Aurus¡¯s mind, his mind inplete approval over this single thought. After reading through the five Ally skills, the thought had transformed into its vocal form as Aurus muttered, ¡°Holy fucking shit.¡±

    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!

    ________

    [Blessing of the Tempest Wolf Monarch]

    The description has been omitted in order for the user to read through all of the requested skills without a problem.

    > Defense +50%

    > Attack and Vitality +150%

    > Gain ess to the skill [Tempest Control]

    ________

    [Unwavering Spirit of the Yin-Yang me]

    The description has been omitted in order for the user to read through all of the requested skills without a problem.

    > Attack +250%

    > Gain ess to the skill [Supreme Yin-Yang me Maniption]

    > Gain ess to the skill [Samsara¡¯s me Domain]

    ________

    [Blessing of the Great Flower Sisters]

    The description has been omitted in order for the user to read through all of the requested skills without a problem.

    > Vitality +250%

    > Gain ess to the skill [Intermediate Light Maniption]

    > All skills now have the ability to heal the user based on a certain percentage of the damage dealt.

    ________

    [Aegis of the Worldly Fortress]

    The description has been omitted in order for the user to read through all of the requested skills without a problem.

    > Defense +250%

    > Gain ess to the skill [Intermediate Earth Maniption]

    > Gain ess to the skill [World Shifting]

    ________

    [Marchioness of Frost: Grand Blessing]

    The description has been omitted in order for the user to read through all of the requested skills without a problem.

    > All stats +250%

    > Gain ess to the skill [Supreme Aqua Maniption]

    > Gain ess to the skill [World of Shattered Frost]

    ________

    After muttering those words, he then closed the five screens before focusing his sense of vision towards the five Allies he had, letting out a sigh of wonder and pride. Hearing this sighe from their master, the five of them could not help but radiate auras of slight confusion, with Terrence taking the initiative to ask him, ¡°What¡¯s wrong, Master? Why¡¯d you sigh?¡±

    ¡°This is a sigh of wonder, Terrence,¡± Aurus replied to Terrence¡¯s question before radiating an aura of happiness and tion. He then added, ¡°I¡¯m left at a loss for words after looking at your Ally skills. To think that all of you have greatmand over your respective elements. You guys truly leave me in awe.¡±

    In response to Aurus¡¯s words of praise towards them, some of them let out a giggle, some of them radiated an aura of shyness, while some of them responded to his words¡­like Marielle, who replied, ¡°That is to be expected from the Allies of Master.¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t forget that you were the one who raised us, Master,¡± Charisa could not help but say after Marielle, a stark contrast from thetter¡¯s opinion. ¡°You gave us all of your experience points to raise us instead of focusing on your own power.¡±

    ¡°When you get stronger, I get a little bit stronger as well so don¡¯t say that,¡± Aurus said in response to Charisa¡¯s words with a chuckle, inwardly feeling the care in Charisa¡¯s words. Just as he was about to move on to the other part of the third step of his n, a thought shed in his mind, prompting Aurus to let out an ¡°Ah¡± sound as he focused his sense of vision towards Fenrir and Charisa for a bit.

    ¡°I almost forgot to max you two out,¡± Aurus said before adding, ¡°Let me do that right now.¡±

    Before the two could even respond to his words, Aurus went ahead and looked at Theresa on his left shoulder beforemanding it, ¡°Use all of my unused experience points to max out the levels of Fenrir and Charisa.¡±

    ¡°As you wish, Master,¡± Theresa soon replied to Aurus¡¯s words as it gestured with its hands, creating yellow strands of energy that went towards Fenrir and Charisa¡¯s bodies, leaving them with no chance to talk, just like how Marielle and the others weren¡¯t able to speak while they were being infused with experience points. Fortunately, it did not take long for their levels to max out, only taking around a few seconds or so.

    After that, Aurus thought about the next part of the third step yet again, only for another thought to sh in his mind regarding the new Allies. He pondered over this thought for a while as the five Allies conversed with each other to pass the time, eventually deciding to follow through with the idea as he focused his field of vision towards Marielle and the others.

    ¡°Marielle, Terrence, Eu, Phoria,e here,¡± Aurus said as he teleported towards one side of the room they were in, prompting those who were called toe closer to Aurus. As for Fenrir and Charisa, they looked at each other for a bit, deciding whether or whether not toe close to their master as well, eventually deciding to note closer since they knew that there was a reason for their master to call them.

    ¡°What seems to be the problem, Master?¡± At the very instant the four of them had arrived in front of the teleported Aurus, Eu took the initiative to start the conversation, obtaining a response from Aurus not long after as he said, ¡°No problem. I just want to ask the four of you if you could grind all of your skills to the Transcendent level.¡±

    ¡°The Transcendent level?!¡± Marielle could not help but shout in response to Aurus¡¯s words, attracting the attention of Fenrir and Charisa for a bit, before adding, ¡°Doesn¡¯t it take a long time to grind one skill to the Transcendent level? And you¡¯re telling us to grind all of our skills to the Transcendent level? Master, you must be joking, right?¡±

    At her words, Aurus let out an inward sigh as he focused his sense of vision towards Phoria. He then asked her, ¡°Phoria, could you use one of your basic skills in front of us?¡±

    ¡°Me?¡± Phoria responded to Aurus¡¯s words with a question. After that, she went silent for a few seconds, eventually mustering up her courage as she responded, ¡°As you wish, Master¡­but, don¡¯tugh at how bad I activate the skill, okay?¡±

    ¡°I won¡¯tugh, don¡¯t worry,¡± Aurus assured Phoria as he added, ¡°Just forget that we¡¯re here and use one skill.¡±

    ¡°Alright¡­¡± Phoria said before taking in a deep breath through her body. A few secondster, a small ball of light appeared in front of her body before expanding into an array of flowers made out of light.

    ¡°[Luminous Bouquet]!¡±

    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!

    Since it was Phoria¡¯s first time activating the skill, although the appearance of the skill was somewhat dazzling, the impact it had was not that much. Of course, since all of the beings around her were her Allies, every one of themplimented Phoria, saying things along the lines of how beautiful the skill was, how she could do better, and so on.

    But Phoria seemed to have ignored these words of praise, radiating an aura of shock, which was a stark contrast to Eu beside her. Noticing that Phoria was acting weird, Eu went ahead and asked her, ¡°What¡¯s wrong, Phoria? Are you okay?¡±

    Hearing Eu¡¯s voice, Phoria was snapped back to reality as she responded, ¡°I¡¯m fine¡­but¡­¡±

    ¡°But?¡± Eu asked her so she could continue with her words. Unsurprisingly, Phoria¡¯s words did not just shock Eu beside her, but Terrence and Marielle as well.

    ¡°I¡¯m fine but¡­for some reason, just that single activation was enough to increase the level of my skill by a lot. It¡¯s only a couple of levels away from reaching the max level¡­¡±

    ¡°What? That¡¯s impossible!¡± Marielle could not help but say in response to Phoria¡¯s words. She then voiced out her opinion, saying, ¡°Normally, skills would take a ton of activations before they would be able to reach the max¡­level¡­¡±

    Just as she was about to finish her sentence, her sense of vision gradually focused on her master and asked him, ¡°Master¡­is this the reason why you asked us to raise our skills to the Transcendent level?¡±

    ¡°Of course,¡± Aurus responded to Marielle¡¯s words, adding on, ¡°Why would I ask for something impossible if I don¡¯t have a way to circumvent the problem?¡±

    He then continued, ¡°I don¡¯t know how much is carried over, but myprehension speed is at 40 times the normal speed. One activation of your skill would probably be more than enough for you four to grind all of your skills to the Transcendent level within a few hours.¡±

    ¡°I do wonder if you¡¯re up for the test though?¡± Aurus soon asked the four this question, letting out a yful chuckle in the process.

    Surprisingly, Marielle was the one who took the initiative to respond to Aurus¡¯s question, saying, ¡°I won¡¯t just grind all of my skills to the Transcendent level, Master. I¡¯ll even surpass it and reach the peak of the Transcendent level!¡±

    Whoosh!

    After that, she then turned around and headed towards one of the corners of the room they were in, instantly covering that corner in a slightly intense aura of frost. As for the remaining three, they looked at each other for a bit before looking back at Aurus. Noticing what they did, Aurus said to them, ¡°You don¡¯t have to reach the peak of the Transcendent level just like Marielle. As long as you reach the Transcendent level, that¡¯s more than enough for me.¡±

    ¡°That would just be akin to tarnishing your goodwill, Master.¡± Terrence took the initiative out of the three to respond to Aurus¡¯s words, saying, ¡°Plus, it would make us weak whenpared to Marielle, who has the greatest potential out of all of us. Don¡¯t you think so as well, Eu? Phoria?¡±

    ¡°We may not be able to beat her in terms of potential, but we could stand on an equal level in terms of skillfulness,¡± Eu responded to Terrence¡¯s question before adding, ¡°Let¡¯s go ahead and grind our skills as well.¡±

    Just as Terrence and Eu and Phoria headed towards the other remaining corners of the room, covering their corners in an intense aura of the earth and light respectively, Phoria¡¯s voice faintly resounded throughout the room, saying, ¡°But I don¡¯t wanna work hard¡­¡±

    ¡°Pfft.¡± Hearing Phoria¡¯s words, Aurus could not help but let out a short chuckle. Around this time, Fenrir and Charisa made their way towards Aurus, with Fenrir asking Aurus, ¡°I presume you¡¯ve tasked them to do the same thing as us before the war, Master?¡±

    ¡°Exactly,¡± Aurus said in response to Fenrir¡¯s question, letting out a slight chuckle in the process. He then asked them, ¡°Are you two jealous?¡±

    ¡°Why should we be jealous, Master?¡± Charisa responded to her master¡¯s question with a chuckle. ¡°If anything, the task you made us do back then would give us a headstart right now if we decide to grind our skills as well.¡±

    ¡°To be honest, I was actually going to give you the same task as them,¡± Aurus said not long after, radiating an aura of slight awkwardness. He then added, ¡°Of course, you can go ahead and opt to not grind your skills as well and that¡¯ll be fine, but I¡¯m going to go grind my skills pretty soon in preparation for my evolution.¡±

    This was what Aurus had in mind all this time before being distracted by the sudden thoughts. The next part of the third step had something to do with him grinding all of his skills to the X-grade Transcendent level, which would now take a slightly longer time since a decent amount of the skills he had were now at the C-grade Mortal level thanks to the mass fusion. Nheless, after all of those skills have reached the X-grade Transcendent level, the power he couldmand would be far greater than before.

    In response to Aurus¡¯s words, Fenrir and Charisa looked at each other for a bit before radiating an aura of slight tion. After that, Fenrir went ahead and said, ¡°It¡¯s fine if you want us to grind our skills, Master. It¡¯s kind of boring in the system anyway.¡±

    ¡°Plus it feels like we¡¯re growing stronger alongside you when grinding skills, Master~¡± Charisa continued where Fenrir left off, a cheerful giggle resounding from her soon after.

    Listening to their words, Aurus let out a sigh that said ¡®It can¡¯t be helped¡¯ as he radiated an aura of happiness before saying, ¡°Alright then. If you two want to grind your skills as well, go ahead. Only one corner is left in this room, so which one of you will be beside me while I grind my skills?¡±

    ¡°Ooh! Me! Me!¡± At the very instant the two of them had processed Aurus¡¯s question, Charisa was the first one to answer to his question, wanting to beside Aurus while he grinded. Hearing Charisa¡¯s eagerness, Fenrir let out a chuckle before saying, ¡°I guess it has been chosen. Charisa will be the one grinding beside you. And before you say anything, Master, I don¡¯t mind this at all. Go ahead and reach a new level of power, Master.¡±

    ¡°Thanks, Fenrir,¡± Aurus responded to his words before adding, ¡°I¡¯ll make sure to make up for this in the future.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll be waiting then,¡± Fenrir said with a slightly yful tone before making his way towards the remaining corner of the room, instantly covering the corner with the aura of great winds¡­well, a great portion of the room to be more exact.

    Looking at Fenrir¡¯s body for a bit, Aurus then focused his sense of vision towards Charisa as he said, ¡°Let¡¯s move to the center so we don¡¯t sh with the others in terms of auras.¡±

    Letting out a sound of approval in response, the two of them soon made their way towards the center of the room, with Charisa taking the initiative to say, ¡°I¡¯ll be grinding my skills now, Master! You¡¯ll surely be blown away after I¡¯m done with this!¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m quite eager to find out,¡± Aurus said in response to Charisa¡¯s words as an intense aura of mes soon radiated from Charisa, covering a great portion of the room as well, just like Fenrir. With him being the only one left unupied with something, Aurus took in a deep breath through his body before muttering, ¡°It¡¯s time to grind my skills as well.¡±

    Not long after that, Aurus soon went ahead and closed his sense of vision, allowing the acuity of his other senses to greatly improve. Just as he was about to go ahead and grind the C-grade Mortal level skills he had on his skill list, a thought came to his mind, prompting him tomunicate with Theresa through his mind as hemanded it, ¡°Theresa, bring up my status screen in my mind. Just the HP, FP, and stats.¡±

    ¡°Understood, Master,¡± Theresa¡¯s voice soon resounded in Aurus¡¯s mind as a notification sound resounded not long after Theresa¡¯s voice. It was soon followed up by a slightly corporeal screen filled with numbers, prompting Aurus to take a look at it¡­only to be left at a loss for words, amazed at how much three Ally skills could do to his stats.

    Nheless, a question popped up in his mind as he looked at his current stats.

    ¡°Ain¡¯t I too broken?¡±

    Ding!

    ________

    [Aurus]

    ¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª

    [HP]: 6,979,114/6,979,114

    [FP]: 557,614/557,614

    ¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª

    [Tenacity]: 372,438

    [Vitality]: 476,834

    [Spirit]: 812,785

    ________

 Chapter 211: A Slight Inconvenience

    Chapter 211: A Slight Inconvenience

    XXXX Continent, Tempest Cliff.

    A few hours have passed since Aurus had enabled [Reward Sharing], allowing Argentum to obtain some of the skills that Aurus was learning from the Tempest Cliff. In total, he had obtained 5 skills from the Tempest Cliff Inheritance, with 4 of thembining with the existing skills he already had, bolstering their power even further.

    At this moment, the sun had already set, with the dim light of the moon illuminating the path for Argentum as he slowly made his way towards Verdant Breeze Town. Of course, since he wanted to make his journey to Verdant Breeze Town as productive and as interesting as possible, he continued to grind all of his skills to their maximum levels before he reached Verdant Breeze town.

    ¡°[Lesser Wind Magic: Wind Bolt]!¡±

    Whoosh! Bang!

    While one part of his mind was focused on traversing the terrain, the other part of his mind was focused on using the optimalbination of skills he had created before starting his grind. Of course, after the amount that has passed from the first time he had used thisbination, the power of his skills from back then was nothing inparison to the power it exuded right now, with all of them reaching their maximum levels.

    As he threw out a bolt made out of wind, this bolt seemed to be propelled by a greater force, allowing it to pierce through the trunk of the tree Argentum aimed at like cutting through butter with a hot knife. Then again, the bolt of wind did not stop there. It continued to pierce through another tree¡¯s trunk¡­then another¡­then another¡­only stopping once the bolt had pierced through 5 trunks, losing its energy and dissipating.

    Looking at the holes the bolt of wind had made, Argentum could not help but stop and stare at it for a bit as he muttered, ¡°Wow¡­the difference between using the Bare-bones variant and the full output of that spell is akin to an ant¡¯s power versus an elephant¡¯s.¡±

    He then turned his vision towards the palm where he conjured the bolt of wind, clenching it a few secondster as he closed his eyes, remembering the sensation he felt before, during, and after he threw the bolt of wind. After a while, he soon opened his eyes before letting out a sigh.

    ¡°Man, raising the masteries of active skills sure takes a lot of activations,¡± Argentum said to himself as he continued to traverse the terrain, his vision slightly hampered by theck of bright light. He then added, ¡°Then again, in terms of power, if I were topare the original body¡¯s skills at X-grade Mortal level to my skills at X-grade Mortal level in the future, disregarding the difference in stats, I¡¯m pretty sure my skills would be far stronger thanks to the masteries.¡±

    Since the Pseudo-Animate existence level is right in between the Inanimate and Animate existence levels, that meant that the progression system of the skills was a mix of the two existence levels. The skills of a Pseudo-Animate would still mostly rely on leveling and evolving for the increase of power, but in terms of active skills, they also have another requirement needed to be met in order for them to evolve.

    That requirement is none other than Skill Mastery. Unlike the Skill Masteries of Animates, the Skill Masteries of Pseudo-Animates rely on the number of activations of said skill, though the number of activations needed for a skill to achieveplete mastery varies. Any skill at the Pseudo-Animate level has five tiers of Skill Mastery. From lowest to highest, those tiers are Basic, Adept, Expert, Artisan, Master.

    So far, after grinding his skills nonstop for these past few hours, the highest tier of Skill Mastery Argentum has achieved on his skills was Adept level, with the [Lesser Wind Magic] having the said level of mastery. Thinking about how many more activations he had to do in order for these skills to reach the peak, Argentum could not help but ask himself, ¡°Should I just go ahead and evolve my active skills once they reach the Adept level of mastery?¡±

    Fortunately, this thought was soon reced by another one in a matter of few seconds, prompting him to say, ¡°That would just mean I¡¯m taking the shortest and weakest route to this path of bing a Super Animate. Didn¡¯t Aurus want me to be the strongest Super Animate possible? Then that means I should aim to have all active skills at the Master level before evolving them!¡±

    ¡°But how long would that even take¡­?¡± Argentum muttered not long after, letting out a sigh. After that, he continued to ponder over this dilemma as he continued to traverse the terrain, utilizing his optimalbination of skills while pondering since it would be a waste if he just pondered while moving.

    Eventually, he decided to go ahead and let all of his active skills reach the Master level of mastery before evolving since that would result in the strongest variant of skills possible. And with that decision now set in stone, he increased the speed at which he used his skills, increasing the speed at which he obtained masteries for his active skills while his passive skills continued to reach their max levels and evolve.

    ¡­

    A few more hours have passed since then, with the moon now at the peak of the sky, illuminating even more of the terrain Argentum was traversing. At this moment, the aura emanating from him had significantly strengthened since a great portion of his active skills were now at the Adept level of mastery, with some even at the Expert level of mastery. Not only that, but he had also received the skill [Instant Comprehension] from Aurus while he was grinding, thinking that it would be a handy skill to have once he reached the Animate existence level.

    Of course, the first one to achieve the Expert level of mastery was the skill [Lesser Wind Magic]. At the very instant he had achieved this level of mastery, he tried firing another bolt of wind at his maximum power. The conclusion of that experiment was him being left at a loss for words as the bolt of wind had pierced through 12 tree trunks this time, over double the number of tree trunks it had pierced from before.

    Thanks to this small experiment he had done, his drive to grind his skills had been ignited even further, making him imagine the power he would wield once all of his skills were at the Master level. He wondered if that would be enough for him to stand at the same level of power as his original body, Aurus.

    ¡°System, open the map.¡± While Argentum continued to grind his skills, he went ahead andmanded the system to bring up a map. It did not take long for the system to move on hismand, bringing up a holographic screen in front of his field of vision, which did not hinder the view in front of him in any way.

    He then looked at the map that was brought up for a while before going ahead to look at his surroundings. He then repeated this process a few times as he split a part of his mind on pondering over the matter, letting out a small chuckle as he muttered, ¡°It seems I¡¯m making good progress. I might just get to Verdant Breeze Town a few days earlier than I thought I would. After around half a day or so, I would probably reach the Inferno ins, therger portion of the Inferno Grounds the original body had gone to back then.¡±

    ¡°I hope the inheritance there doesn¡¯t take a long time to clear though,¡± Argentum muttered not long after before continuing to grind his skills, only to stop as he heard a few voicesing from a ce not far away from where he was. He took in a deep breath to make sure his impulsiveness did not get the better of him. After that, he then went ahead and moved towards the origin of the voices he was hearing, activating his polymorph skill along the way, transforming into a tall yet inconspicuous nt.

    Rustle¡­rustle¡­

    Fortunately, it did not take long for Argentum to arrive near the origin of the sound, being slightly surprised at the fact that he had discovered humans in this area of the wilderness, gathered around a campfire made in the center of what seemed to be an artificial clearing. The first thing that came to Argentum¡¯s mind as he looked at the appearances of the humans was that these humans might be bandits.

    With that in mind, Argentum could not help but radiate an aura of slight tion as this thought intensified, only for him to suppress this aura as he did not want to be found by these humans, lest he wanted to be captured by them instead. Nheless, that did not stop him from thinking about his ns of bing a Super Animate.

    ¡®Should I go ahead and kill these Animates for the sake of bing a Super Animate?¡¯ Argentum asked himself in his mind as he recalled the process of transforming into a Super Animate. ¡®Erea did say back then that in order to be a Super Animate, one must need the flesh and blood of about five Animates at the very least.¡¯

    ¡®I can¡¯t help but feel a bit guilty if I did that though,¡¯ Argentum continued thinking as he looked at their appearances more closely, making him think that they looked more like adventurers rather than bandits. ¡®If I killed them, then that would mean their families would be left with a loved one gone from the world, turning into materials for my own gain.¡¯

    In the end, Argentum inwardly let out a short sigh, muttering to himself, ¡°I just happened toe across them. I won¡¯t kill them. I¡¯ll just kill those who deserve to be killed in that Verdant Breeze Town to solve that problem.¡±

    And with that, he turned around and left the clearing those humans were in, reverting to his original appearance after making sure he had created enough distance from them. Not long after that, he went back to grinding his skills in a monotonous manner as he traversed the terrain in the fastest speed he could muster¡­only for him to hear the voice of a human gradually get louder.

    ¡°To think we¡¯vee across a rare Wind Spirit,¡± the voice said as it resounded throughout the area, a deep chuckle following it soon after. It then continued, ¡°How much do you think would it sell for in the ck Market?¡±

    ¡°Definitely around three million gold coins at the very least,¡± another voice responded to the previous voice¡¯s query, its tone being slightly shrill.

    It was then that Argentum realized¡­that he may have just fallen into a trap set up by those humans in that clearing. Unsure as to whether or not these humans had nned this all along, Argentum could not help but ask, ¡°I wonder what made all of you hunt me.¡±

    ¡°Money. What other reason would there be?¡± a voice different from the previous two responded to Argentum¡¯s question, as three people finally revealed themselves to Argentum, two men, and one woman. After the woman was finished responding, one of the two men continued where the woman left off, saying, ¡°It seems the heavens have decided to take pity on us, allowing such a rare Pseudo-Animate toe close to our clearing. To be honest, you¡¯re quite the lifesaver, you Wind Spirit. Selling you would definitely pay the massive debt we have while allowing us to livevishly as well.¡±

    ¡°Hoh?¡± Argentum could not help but say in response. He then asked the three, ¡°Where are your otherpanions then? There were 7 of you in that clearing, right?¡±

    ¡°We¡¯re not that stupid, you know,¡± the man with the shrill voice responded to Argentum¡¯s words before letting out a haughty chuckle. ¡°The 4 of them have their skills and weapons prepared, ready to capture you at a moment¡¯s notice. Why would they reveal themselves to you, you inferior being?¡±

    ¡°I feel like you have a grudge against Pseudo-Animates. Well¡­it¡¯s not like I have anything to do that,¡± Argentum said before letting out a chuckle of his own. This prompted the three to look at each other for a bit, with the woman proceeding to ask Argentum in a slightly furious tone, ¡°Why are youughing? Aren¡¯t you supposed to be scared?¡±

    ¡°Scared? Why should I be?¡± Argentum responded to the woman¡¯s words in a slightly arrogant tone. ¡°I could leave this ce at any time.¡±

    ¡°Fire!¡± Hearing Argentum¡¯s words, the man with the shrill voice shouted all of a sudden, prompting four arrows to head towards where Argentum was¡­only for Argentum to disappear in an instant.

    Whoosh! ng!

    Due to their positions and trajectories, plus the fact that Argentum had disappeared, the four arrows collided at a single point, snapping into multiple pieces as their fragments let out soft noises. Alongside this, the faces of the three had expressions of shock.

    ¡°Where did that Wind Spirit go?!¡± the man with a deep voice asked the other two in slight surprise and fury. To think that their ticket to freedom was now gone!

    In response, the woman went ahead and conjured a magic circle, letting out a sigh of relief not long after as she replied, ¡°The Wind Spirit is still within the vicinity, but we have no clue where it is!¡±

    ¡°Go and find it as fast as possible!¡± the man with the deep voice said in response before shouting, ¡°Everyone, find any traces of the Wind Spirit! As soon as you find them, ry them to me!¡±

    ¡°Well, well, well. How the tables have turned,¡± a voice familiar to them resounded throughout the area, prompting the man with the shrill voice to shout, ¡°Wind Spirit!¡±

    ¡°Good thing I¡¯m still within the vicinity, right? I hope you try your best to find me,¡± Argentum¡¯s voice continued to resound, letting out a slightly arrogant chuckle after his statement.

    ¡°Also, I¡¯ve changed my mind,¡± Argentum¡¯s voice resounded once more, not letting the humans respond to his words. ¡°Back when I checked your clearing, I was supposed to kill all of you.¡±

    ¡°And now it seems¡­I¡¯ve decided to continue with that idea.¡±

    ¡°How about¡­¡±

    ¡°We y a game?¡±

 Chapter 212: The Final Step

    Chapter 212: The Final Step

    As he looked at his status screen, shocked at the great boost to his stats three Ally skills had given him, he could not help but mutter to himself, ¡°Ain¡¯t I too broken?¡±

    ¡°If I were an X-grade Inanimate and I decided to not evolve to the Pseudo-Animate level or Animate level in a long time, then I would¡¯ve epted these numbers,¡± Aurus continued muttering to himself. ¡°But I¡¯ve only been an S-grade Inanimate for a short frame of time¡­how monstrous would my stats be in the future?¡±

    In the end, he decided to not think how monstrous he was. He changed his train of thought towards that of his future, a future after the Inanimate existence level. Thinking about it, he thought to himself, ¡®If I go through the same route Argentum is undergoing right now in bing an Animate, then that would make me¡­an Ultra Animate? A Super Animate is already strong thanks to the stats they have, but an Ultra Animate¡­surely with monstrous stats like these, I¡¯d be unrivaled against those on the same level as me as well as those above me, right?¡¯

    The more he thought about it, the more he became excited for a future where he could lord over anything while being at a lower level. He could not help but imagine fighting against those that underestimated his power, only for him to win overwhelmingly in a tournament like in the web novels he read. He then thought about the farther future¡­the Transcendent level¡­the Divinity level¡­with his current stats, it might just be possible for him to reach the pinnacle of power while being at a lower rank.

    ¡°Well, I can already reach the Pseudo-Transcendent level of power at my current existence level,¡± Aurus muttered to himself as he let out a low chuckle before adding, ¡°Who knows what level my power would reach when I get to those existence levels.¡±

    ¡°Anyways, I should go ahead and grind my skills to the X-grade Transcendent level,¡± Aurus continued to mutter, returning his train of thought back to the steps of his n. Just as he was about to start grinding his skills, he remembered a certain memory that would allow him to raise a few of his skills far faster than before, prompting him to look at Theresa on his left shoulder before asking it, ¡°Theresa, I have leftover chances where I could max a skill¡¯s level out instantly, right?¡±

    ¡°That is correct, Master,¡± Theresa responded to Aurus¡¯s words in a slightly cheerful tone before adding, ¡°You have 6 chances remaining, would you like to use them?¡±

    ¡°Indeed, I do,¡± Aurus said in response to Theresa¡¯s question not long after. He then went ahead andmanded her, ¡°Open up the skill list. Exclude the Ruler skills since they¡¯re myst priority in terms of leveling. Also, make sure to exclude the skills that cannot be leveled up or evolved.¡±

    ¡°As you wish, Master,¡± Theresa said in response to his words before gesturing with its hands, a slightly corporeal screen appearing in front of Aurus¡¯s field of vision not long after.

    Ding!

    ______

    Active ss Skills:

    [Supreme Deification (Epic) Lv. 1], [Flux Equipment Creation (Legendary) Lv. 1]

    Passive ss Skills:

    [Otherworldly Spiritas Energy Core (Wind Variant) Lv. 1], [Heaven¡¯s Zenith Essence Ascension (Rare) Lv. 1]

    Active Species Skills:

    [Omnipresent Movement (Rare) Lv. 1], [Spellswords of Ruination (Legendary) Lv. 1], [Divine Polymorph (Rare) Lv. 1], [Heavenly Rejuvenation (Rare) Lv. 1], [Spirit World (Epic) Lv. 1], [Grand Aegis (Epic) Lv. 1], [Wisdom Transfer Lv. 1]

    Hybrid Species Skills:

    [Penultimate Veridical Spirit (Mythic) Lv. 1]

    Passive Species Skills:

    [Grace of the Divine Tempest (Special) Lv.1], [Flux Dimension (Epic) Lv. 1], [Parallel Sentience (Special) Lv. 1], [Surpassing Fate Lv. 1], [Power Surpassing Boundaries Lv. 1]

    Active Life and Will Skills:

    [Omnipresence (Rare) Lv. 1/5 (C-Transcendent)]

    ______

    ¡°Well then,¡± Aurus muttered as he looked at the screen in front of him. ¡°What a surprise. Even if I removed all of the skills that can¡¯t be evolved or leveled up from my skill list, I still have quite a lot of skills to grind.¡±

    ¡°Then again, what skill should I allocate the 6 chances I have?¡± Aurus asked himself not long after, looking at the skill list in front of him as he pondered for quite some time. Eventually, he made a decision in his mind, focusing his sense of vision towards Theresa before saying, ¡°Use all of my 6 chances on [Flux Dimension]. Make sure to evolve it.¡±

    [Flux Dimension], Aurus¡¯s only FP storage skill which used to be called [Supreme Spirit-Flux Chiliocosm] back then. Naturally, after fusing with a lot of skills, the maximum FP capacity Aurus could hold at once was greatly increased while the grade of the skill had reverted to the C-grade Mortal level.

    The reason as to why Aurus decided to use all of his chances on this skill was because his current species specialized in Flux, which he had fused with his previous Spirit Points in order for him to have a huge amount of Flux. In his mind, he thought that by having a lot of Flux, he would be able to evolve to a species of Spiritas Flux far stronger than his current one. Of course, he¡¯d still have to grind the rest of the way to X-grade Transcendent, but he thought that just saving those chances rather than using them is more useless.

    ¡°Alright, Master!¡± Theresa said in response before gesturing with her hands not long after. A few secondster, six balls of white light manifested over Theresa¡¯s head, forming a sort of halo around it. Not long after that, a ball of blue light multiple timesrger than the six balls came out of Aurus¡¯s body before settling down on top of his wooden head.

    These six balls of white light then made their way towards the ball of blue light, entering the ball of blue light one by one as the former gradually increased in size. After a single ball of white light was absorbed, the ball of blue light would then burst in an array of light, signifying that the skill had evolved to a higher grade. This happened for a total of six times, bringing [Flux Dimension] from the C-grade Mortal level to the B-grade Transcendent level, increasing the amount of FP Aurus can hold by leaps and bounds.

    As the erged ball of blue light went back into Aurus¡¯s body, Theresa looked at Aurus and happily said, ¡°Congrattions, Master! [Flux Dimension] has now reached the B-grade Transcendent level.¡±

    ¡°Good to know,¡± Aurus said in response to Theresa¡¯s words, reciprocating the happiness in her tone. After that, he pondered for a bit over a certain topic before proceeding to ask it, ¡°Theresa, is there, by any chance, a way you could help me grind these skills out to the X-grade Transcendent level?¡±

    Listening to his question, Theresa hastily replied with a slightly sorrowful expression, ¡°I¡¯m afraid I cannot help you with that, Master. The only thing I can help out in terms of skills is¡­¡±

    Just as it was about to finish its answer, the sorrowful expression on its face had changed to that of a smile as it continued, ¡°¡­Exactly that! Just tell me the skills you want me to grind, and those skills you tell me to grind will level up at the same pace as yourprehension speed, Master!¡±

    ¡°¡­¡± Aurus listened to Theresa¡¯s response in silence, eventually letting out a sigh as he said, ¡°You know¡­you could¡¯ve saved us time if you just said yes.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s no fun at all, Master!¡± Theresa said as it puffed out its cheeks before letting out a short giggle. It then went ahead and asked him, ¡°Anyways, what skill would you like me to level up to the X-grade Transcendent level?¡±

    Emanating slight tion, Aurus went ahead and said, ¡°Well¡­¡±

    And so, with that, Theresa and Aurus proceeded to grind all of Aurus¡¯s skills to the X-grade Transcendent level, making sure that they had reached the maximum level for the X-grade Transcendent level as well.

    The first few skills the two had tackled were the skills that had reverted to the C-grade Mortal level thanks to the mass fusion, only taking around half a day or so for all of those skills to reach the peak of the X-grade Transcendent level. Of course, this was all due to Aurus¡¯sprehension speed being at 40 times the normalprehension speed, almost thrice as fast than hisprehension speed from before the war.

    After those skills, he then moved onto the passive skills he had, also raising all of them to the peak of the X-grade Transcendent level. Unlike the active skills, due to the slightlyplicated method of raising their experience, the amount of time taken for all of those passive skills to reach the peak was around 18 hours or so, with the newest passive skills he had obtained, [Surpassing Fate] and [Power Surpassing Boundaries] taking the longest time to grind since the two of them did not know how to raise their levels.

    It turned out that the two just needed to use the active skills embedded in the skills for their experience to increase.

    After the passive skills were the remaining active skills he had left that were not at the peak of the X-grade Transcendent level yet. This included [Omnipresence], a skill he made for the war but did not even use, and [Wisdom Transfer], a skill that needed Aurus to pass on skills onto other beings.

    Unsurprisingly, [Omnipresence] took only around an hour or so to reach the peak of the X-grade Transcendent level while [Wisdom Transfer] could only reach the X-grade Mortal level, taking on the name [Sage¡¯s Wisdom Shift]. The reason as to why thetter could only reach the X-grade Mortal level was because Aurus could only transfer some of his skills to Eu, Phoria, Terrence, and Marielle within his room since Fenrir and Charisa had already learned all of the skills that he could transfer.

    Of course, he could go ahead and go out of the Tower of Seclusion to pass his skills to the other members of the alliance, allowing [Sage¡¯s Wisdom Shift] to reach the X-grade Transcendent level. But then, he decided that it would be better for the skills he transferred to be at a lower level than a higher one for it to suit the specialties of the being he passes the skill onto.

    Andst but not the least among the line of skills he could level up and evolve were the Ruler skills given to him by the Supreme Ruler of the Void. Although his title would not go up by a level anymore since the Supreme Ruler of the Void had already done so beforehand, these skills still made up quite a great portion of his amplification multiplier, even more so after their output could now be adjusted thanks to the Supreme Ruler of the Void¡¯s blessing.

    It took Aurus and Theresa over half a day to grind all of the Ruler skills to the peak of the X-grade Transcendent level, including the passive Ruler skill that allowed him to attune to the element of Void without having an affinity for it. In total, Aurus and Theresa took almost 2 days to grind all of Aurus¡¯s skills to the peak of the X-grade Transcendent level.

    After doing so, Aurus could not help but look at Theresa with greater tion, asking it, ¡°Since we¡¯ve maxed out almost all of the skills I have to the X-grade Transcendent level, don¡¯t you think it¡¯s time for us to go a bit further?¡±

    ¡°What do you mean by that, Master?¡± Theresa could not help but ask, a somewhat confused expression on its face. In response to its question, Aurus let out a chuckle beforemanding Theresa, ¡°Evolve all of the evolvable skills I have to the next grade.¡±

    Ding!

    In response to hismand, a notification sound resounded in his mind as Theresa put on a somewhat sad expression. Theresa then said, ¡°I¡¯m afraid you can¡¯t do that, Master.¡±

    ¡°Why is that?¡± Aurus asked Theresa, wondering what was hindering his skills from reaching the highest level of skills possible, the Divine level. Theresa soon replied, ¡°Master, the skills of Inanimates can only go up to the peak of X-grade Transcendent level at most¡­¡±

    ¡°¡­Unless you have a key that could break through this limit, Master,¡± Theresa added after the long dy in its previous statement. ¡°The skill [Penultimate Veridical Spirit] is an exception to this one since it was a skill that could reach the Divine level to begin with.¡±

    ¡°As for the other skills you have, their path to the Divine level can only be opened once you have a key,¡± Theresa continued exining as to why, leaving Aurus pondering as to whether or not he had a key that could do such a thing. Eventually, a certain memory from a few days ago had entered his mind, with Theresa¡¯s voice reverberating in his mind as it said:

    ¡°After absorbing the All-seeing Comprehension Leaf, Master now has aprehension speed of 35 times! Not only that, but Master has also obtained a chance to break a skill¡¯s limit to a higher level!¡±

    ¡°A chance to break a skill¡¯s limit to a higher level¡­¡± Aurus muttered, finally understanding what Theresa meant back then. With this in mind, he proceeded to ask Theresa, ¡°Is the chance I got from absorbing the All-seeing Comprehension Leaf considered a key for a skill to break its limits?¡±

    In response, Theresa let out a short giggle as it smiled, saying, ¡°That¡¯s exactly what it does, Master. Now, what skill would you like to use your chance on?¡±

    Not expecting that Theresa would ask him to use his chance right now, Aurus pondered for a bit. Thankfully, it did not take Aurus that long to decide on what skill he wanted to break through the limit, muttering to himself, ¡°The more I have it, the stronger the species I could evolve into¡­probably.¡±

    ¡°Use the chance I have on [Flux Dimension],¡± Aurus soon responded to Theresa¡¯s question, to which Theresa replied, ¡°As you wish, Master.¡±

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    With a snap of Theresa¡¯s fingers, two balls of light came out of Aurus¡¯s body. One ball of light was incredibly small but radiated an aura that surpassed the aura Aurus could radiate at his maximum power while the other ball of light was incrediblyrge, radiating an aura that seemed to make anyone feel like it was a boundless dimension once one looked into it.

    Therge ball of light was none other than the manifestation of the skill [Flux Dimension], while the other ball of light was the manifestation of the chance he had. It did not take long for Theresa to fuse the two balls into one, with therge ball of light emanating a godly aura a few secondster. Surprisingly, this made Aurus¡¯s Allies, who were engrossed in grinding their skills, look at Aurus¡¯s direction and stare at the ball of light that radiated the aura.

    Fortunately, it did not take long for the ball of light to head back into Aurus¡¯s body as Aurus told everyone to go back to grinding, which they did. After that, Theresa went ahead and congratted Aurus, saying, ¡°Congrattions, Master! [Flux Dimension] is now at the C-grade Divine level, taking on the name [Celestial Flux Dimension].¡±

    After listening to what Theresa said, Aurus went ahead and grinded his newly evolved [Celestial Flux Dimension] skill to its maximum level, prompting Aurus tomand Theresa, ¡°Theresa, evolve this skill to the next grade.¡±

    ¡°Unfortunately, Master, you need another key for the skill to reach the next grade of the Divine level,¡± Theresa said in response with a slightly sorrowful tone, making Aurus let out a long sigh of slight annoyance in response. Not long after, he muttered, ¡°Ah well. This is probably more than enough to make my choices better.¡±

    ¡°Theresa,¡± Aurus looked at Theresa and said, to which Theresa replied, ¡°Yes, Master?¡±

    In response, Aurus let out a chuckle of tion before saying, ¡°It¡¯s time.¡±

    ¡°Evolve to the next grade.¡±

 Chapter 213: Semis Regulus

    Chapter 213: Semis Regulus

    ¡°Theresa, show me all of the possible evolution choices I have for the next grade,¡± Aurusmanded Theresa not long after telling it that it was time for him to now evolve to X-grade Inanimate. In response to Aurus¡¯s words, Theresa lightly smiled as it responded, ¡°As you wish, Master! Would you like to show me all of the information regarding your choices, or would you like to have the freedom to choose whether or not to show them?¡±

    ¡°Thetter, Theresa,¡± Aurus responded to its words before adding, ¡°Just give me a list of my choices for now.¡±

    ¡°Understood, Master!¡± Theresa replied to Aurus before gesturing with its hands, a screen with exquisite borders appearing in front of Aurus¡¯s field of vision not long after. At the very instant the screen had finished manifesting, Theresa then said, ¡°In evolving to the next grade, you have 6 paths to choose from, Master! I¡¯ve arranged the evolutions from the least powerful to the most powerful. Of course, it¡¯s still up to you Master if you choose a different evolution.¡±

    Whoosh!

    ________

    Please choose the species that [Aurus ¡ª Tempest Walnut Spiritas Flux (Rare)] would evolve into:

    [Zephyr Spiritas Flux (Rare++)]

    [Zephyr Spiritas Flux ¡ª Primus Energistas (Epic)]

    [Zephyr Spiritas Flux ¡ª Sophos (Epic)]

    [Zephyr Spiritas Flux ¡ª Excindor (Epic)]

    [Zephyr Spiritas Flux ¡ª Armum Fabrica (Epic)]

    [Zephyr Spiritas Flux ¡ª Semis Regulus (Epic+)]

    ________

    ¡°By the looks of it, the choices I have are more or less [Zephyr Spiritas Flux] and its variants,¡± Aurus could not help but say as he looked at his choices. A few secondster, he thenmanded Theresa, ¡°Bring up the descriptions and skills for [Zephyr Spiritas Flux].¡±

    At the very instant Aurus was finished telling Theresa what to do, Theresa snapped its fingers, a screen slightly bigger than the one with the evolution choices appearing soon after. Aurus then shifted his sense of vision towards this newly opened screen, skimming through it before saying, ¡°So this would be the natural progression of my current species. I see.¡±

    Ding!

    ________

    [Zephyr Spiritas Flux (Rare++)]

    Shedding its previous connections to the Walnut line of descent, it has truly created its own path, bing a true Spiritas. Due to it shedding its previous connections, it now has a greater sensitivity towards the Flux binding its body¡¯s Animas together, allowing it tomand greater power than ever before. Apanied by its newly heightened affinity towards the element of Wind, a Spiritas of this caliber would be themander of an army of Spiritii.

    > [Nine Flux Transformation] shall be upgraded to [Ny Nine Flux Transformation], allowing the user to temper the power of their Flux even further

    > The active ss skill [Flux Transcendence] shall be obtained, allowing the user tobine their Flux and Anima as one, allowing the user to transcend their current existence level for a short time

    > The active ss skill [Flux Servant] shall be obtained, allowing the user to create a servant out of Flux, or use their Flux to control another being for a short amount of time

    > The active ss skill [Flux Vessel] shall be obtained, allowing the user to store their Flux outside their body

    > The passive ss skill [Flux Conjecture: Miniature World] shall be obtained, allowing the user to obtain greater power from each point of Flux used

    > The passive ss skill [Zephyr Spiritas Flux Seed] shall be obtained, allowing the user to increase their HP and FP based on their other stats

    ________

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡± As Aurus continued to read through the skills and description of this first evolution path he had a few more times, he could not help but conclude that the reason why this evolution path had been deemed the weakest was due to it being the natural progression path of a Spiritas Flux. Of course, for other Inanimates, this evolution path might be the strongest for them since it warrants such a title anyway.

    ¡°The amount of skills I would get from this evolution path is quite little, but what it offers would definitely boost the skills I¡¯ve obtained from my previous evolution,¡± Aurus muttered as he continued to read the wall of text, his sense of vision focusing on a specific line of text. Reading this line, he asked himself, ¡°Are there civilizations where only Spiritii exist?¡±

    ¡°If so, where are they?¡± Aurus followed up his first question with this one, truly wondering where they were since from the description of the evolution, there was a chance that those civilizations existed. But by the looks of it, to him, it seemed that he was the only Spiritas in this world. In the end, he thought that he should go find one once he bes an Animate since that would allow him to traverse the other continents of Erudinia.

    ording to his memories back then of ISE, Erudinia had 5 continents, with the continent he was in being the lower rightmost continent in the world. Since it was in the lower rightmost part of the world, it was also the weakest continent in the world, with the other continents beside it wanting to capture its territory and make it their own. Although Aurus knew that one of the two continents eventually captured the continent he was in as their own, he was not sure if the same happened in this world since that was a game and this was a real world.

    ¡°I wonder if this continent is still called Arveridia,¡± Aurus muttered to himself beforemanding Theresa to close the screen. With a general idea of how strong his weakest evolution path was, Aurus knew for a fact that he was going to choose the final path on his list of choices. From the rarity of the species alone, which was Epic+, it was already a given.

    Nheless, he was quite curious as to what descriptions the other sses would have, wondering if they also had brief statements regarding Spiritas civilizations. With that in mind, Aurus focused his sense of vision towards Theresa beforemanding it, ¡°Theresa, bring up the descriptions of the next four evolution paths. Save the strongest evolution path forter.¡±

    ¡°As you wish, Master,¡± Theresa soon replied to Aurus¡¯s words before going ahead and snapping its fingers one more time. This time, four screens that surrounded the one with Aurus¡¯s evolution paths appeared in front of his field of vision. Fortunately, the arrangement of these screens was in the order of least powerful to most powerful, just like the choices he had. After reading through all of them, Aurus had a greater idea of what seemed to be the high-ranking beings of Spiritas civilizations.

    Ding! Ding! Ding! Ding!

    ________

    [Zephyr Spiritas Flux ¡ª Primus Energistas (Epic)]

    Shedding its previous connections to the Walnut line of descent, it has truly created its own path, bing a true Spiritas. Due to it shedding its previous connections, it now has a greater sensitivity towards the Flux binding its body¡¯s Animas together, allowing it tomand greater power than ever before. Being well-versed in the world of magic arts, it has the ambitions of reaching a greater level of magic, thinking that its rank of High Energistas was not enough.

    Fortunately, it has seeded, reaching a new rank of Spiritas mages, Primus Energistas. A Spiritas with this ss can dish multiple low-leveled spells at once, cast high-leveled spells with ease, and even cast ultimate-level spells alone. Many opposing Spiritii nations consider a Primus Energistas Spiritas a bane to their armies since they could not only cast great magic themselves, but also have great closebat abilities as well.

    ________

    [Zephyr Spiritas Flux ¡ª Sophos (Epic)]

    Shedding its previous connections to the Walnut line of descent, it has truly created its own path, bing a true Spiritas. Due to it shedding its previous connections, it now has a greater sensitivity towards the Flux binding its body¡¯s Animas together, allowing it tomand greater power than ever before. Being well-versed in the world of magic arts, it has the ambitions of reaching a higher level of magic, not for the sake of destruction and honor, but for the sake of helping the Spiritas civilization they reside in.

    Fortunately, it has seeded, attaining enlightenment in the world of magic while awakening all of thetent potentials in its mind. Multiple Spiritii call this ss the ss thates after Benevir, but even though this ss does care for its kin, it can still cast high-leveled spells without a problem, giving their armies strong buffs with an incrediblyrge range while being healers.

    Normally, Spiritii with this ss are known to be well-versed in divination, allowing their civilizations to know what happens to their futures. Not only that, due to them awakening their minds, they are also great mentors and teachers to those Spiritii wanting to learn the magic arts. In wartime, they¡¯re known to be the greatest strategists and enhancers that could turn the tides to their favor.

    ________

    [Zephyr Spiritas Flux ¡ª Excindor (Epic)]

    Shedding its previous connections to the Walnut line of descent, it has truly created its own path, bing a true Spiritas. Due to it shedding its previous connections, it now has a greater sensitivity towards the Flux binding its body¡¯s Animas together, allowing it tomand greater power than ever before. Being well-versed in the world of magic arts and closebat, it has the ambitions of reaching a higher level of power, its yearning for destruction incredibly pure.

    Fortunately, it has seeded, bing the ss thates after Khyraox, the Excindor. Unlike the Khyraox, the Excindor revert to their calm andposed mindsets, only bringing out their crazed mindsets when left with no choice. Spiritii with this ss are known as the greatest warriors of their nation¡¯s armies, even being called as one-man armies due to their prowess over wide-range spells and debuffs. It has been said that a Spiritas taking on this path would be an Asura in its Animate form.

    ________

    [Zephyr Spiritas Flux ¡ª Armum Fabrica (Epic)]

    Shedding its previous connections to the Walnut line of descent, it has truly created its own path, bing a true Spiritas. Due to it shedding its previous connections, it now has a greater sensitivity towards the Flux binding its body¡¯s Animas together, allowing it tomand greater power than ever before. Unlike the other sses, it has found great joy in crafting equipment for its brethren. Wanting to see its equipment be keepsakes for great Spiritas ns, it has the ambitions of reaching a higher level of craft, yearning for greater understanding of the materials and the equipment the Spiritas uses and crafts.

    Fortunately, it has seeded, bing a distinguished Spiritas with a ss known as Armum Fabrica. Armum Fabrica Spiritii are incredibly rare in Spiritas nations since most nations focus on the power of their individuals, not thinking that equipment would increase this power as well. Any normal equipment created by an Armum Fabrica would allow a normal Spiritas to fight against 5 at once, easily increasing a nation¡¯s power by fivefold. It can also craft Armaments, incredibly powerful weapons that would easily destroy a nation.

    Most Armum Fabrica are treated with high respect, even by the Spiritas nobles since their weapons end up bing keepsakes of their ns.

    ________

    ¡°Who knew a Spiritas civilization was more or less simr to human civilizations,¡± Aurus could not help but mutter in wonder, remembering the evolution paths he had back then before evolving to S-grade Inanimate. Since they were also Spiritas ss, they would¡¯ve been parts of the Spiritas civilization as well. After pondering over it for some time, he got to the possible conclusion that the intelligence of the system was probably not enough to know of Spiritas civilizations, omitting its information.

    Just as he was about to ask Theresa to bring up the information of thest evolution path, he remembered that Argentum was still out on an adventure. If Argentum came back with him still in the process of evolving, he thought that Argentum would probably be worried sick as to what was happening to him.

    And so, with that in mind, he went ahead and contacted Argentum with [Mental Communication], getting straight to the point.

    ¡°Hey, Argentum. I¡¯m about to evolve,¡± Aurus said through the connection that was made between the two of them. He soon added, ¡°While I¡¯m evolving, I¡¯ll be unconscious so you¡¯ll be on your own.¡±

    In response to this, Argentum asked him, ¡°How long will the evolution process take? I¡¯ve checked through our memories and know that it¡¯s long. But will it be longer than the time I¡¯m outside Tempest Cliff?¡±

    ¡°This time around, most likely,¡± Aurus responded with slight uncertainty. He then added, ¡°If youe back to Tempest Cliff early, I¡¯ll be at the Tower of Seclusion. I guess you could just call Herellia to let you inside the alliance.¡±

    ¡°Got it,¡± Argentum replied before letting out a light chuckle. ¡°I guess the gap in our strength will grow bigger after your evolution.¡±

    ¡°Seems so.¡± Aurus chuckled as well. ¡°But that wouldn¡¯t discourage you, right?¡±

    ¡°Not in the slightest,¡± Argentum replied. ¡°Go and evolve. I¡¯m still heading to Verdant Breeze Town.¡±

    ¡°Alright then,¡± Aurus said in response to Argentum¡¯s words. ¡°Stay safe.¡±

    Whoosh!

    After that, the connection between the two had been cut, leaving Aurus alone again as he took in a few deep breaths. After that, radiating immense curiosity and expectation, hemanded Theresa, ¡°Bring me the skills and description for thest evolution path. Also, I choose thisst evolution path as the species I¡¯m going to evolve into.¡±

    ¡°But don¡¯t confirm it yet,¡± Aurus soon added, to which Theresa responded, ¡°Alright, Master. I¡¯ll initiate the evolution process once you say so.¡±

    Ding!

    A screen had appeared beside the one with multiple evolution paths just like before after Theresa snapped its fingers. Butpared to the screen that had appeared when the first evolution path was asked to be opened up, the size of this screen was a few timesrger. After reading through all of it, Aurus could not help but chuckle and say, ¡°I guess I¡¯m a noble now.¡±

    ________

    [Zephyr Spiritas Flux ¡ª Semis Regulus (Epic+)]

    Shedding its previous connections to the Walnut line of descent, it has truly created its own path, bing a true Spiritas. Due to it shedding its previous connections, it now has a greater sensitivity towards the Flux binding its body¡¯s Animas together, allowing it tomand greater power than ever before. Not only that, but due to its great achievements in a certain field, the Spiritas royalty has imbued this Spiritas the blood of the nobles, transforming it into a Semis Regulus Spiritas, or a Spiritas that is considered a half-noble.

    Compared to normal Spiritii, the power they wield would be enough to wipe a nation¡¯s army out of existence thanks to the power of the blood they were given. Being a half-noble, their authority in Spiritas nations are quite high as well, allowing them to take considerably high positions of power, not only in war, but in politics as well.

    On rare asions, Semis Regulus Spiritii awaken a portion of the blood given to them by chance, allowing them to wield part of the unique powers of Spiritas royalty. Of course, some awaken them through hard work and effort, allowing them to wield a greater portion of the unique powers of the Spiritas royalty.

    Once they control all of the powers of the blood given to them, they are not considered Semis Regulus anymore, but rather, Magnus Regulus, also known as true Spiritas noble. These types of Spiritii are considered great beings of power, even in the world of Animates.

    > [Nine Flux Transformation] shall be upgraded to [Royal Flux Reformation], allowing the user to increase the power of their Flux to great heights

    > [Flux Equipment Fabrication] shall be upgraded to [Royal Flux Equipment Fabrication], allowing the user to craft equipment imbued with the power of nobles

    > The active ss skill [Domain of Nobility] shall be obtained, allowing the user to create a domain where the power of beings are greatly suppressed

    > The active ss skill [Noble Awakening] shall be obtained, allowing the user to ignite the power of the noble blood flowing within their bodies to enhance their stats

    > The active ss skill [True Semis Regulus] shall be obtained, allowing the user to transform the blood flowing through their bodies to show the characteristics of noble blood, removing the amplification limit of their bodies

    > The active ss skill [Semis Regulus: Ruling Entity] shall be obtained, allowing the user to create a domain wherein the user can control everything within it.

    > The active ss skill [Noble¡¯s Mark] shall be obtained, allowing the user to pass on the blood of nobility onto other beings, allowing their stats to greatly increase once they increase the level of their mark

    > The active ss skill [Flux Knight] shall be obtained, allowing the user to create knights made out of their Flux that could level up and evolve in their own manner

    > The passive ss skill [Purification of Noble Blood] shall be obtained, allowing the user to increase the power of the noble blood flowing within them, as well as the ratio of noble blood tomon blood flowing in their bodies

    > The passive ss skill [Flux Conjecture: Techniques of the Royalty] shall be obtained, allowing the user to increase the amount of power a single point of Flux contains

    > The passive ss skill [Royal Flux Condensation] shall be obtained, allowing the user to condense their Flux into Royal Flux, a type of energy that allows skills and spells to show a greater amount of power than ever before

    > The passive ss skill [Semis Regulus Seed] shall be obtained, allowing the user to increase their HP and FP to unbelievable heights

    > The title [Spiritas Half-Noble] shall be obtained, increasing the user¡¯s stats by a small percentage. The user can enhance this title by increasing the ratio of noble tomon blood within their bodies.

    ________

    Closing his sense of vision for a while as he closed the screen filled with the description of the final evolution path, Aurus took in a few deep breaths, wanting to calm himself down. Unfortunately, this action only made his excitement and expectations intensify, making Aurus open his sense of vision before letting out a sigh.

    ¡°I guess it can¡¯t be helped,¡± Aurus said as he chuckled. He then looked at Theresa and said, ¡°I¡¯m done reading through the description.¡±

    ¡°I confirm my choice. Let me evolve.¡±

    ¡°As you wish, Master.¡±

    ¡­

    ¡­

    ¡­

    Ding!

    ¡®[Aurus ¡ª Tempest Walnut Spiritas Flux (Rare+)] has evolved to [Aurus ¡ª Zephyr Spiritas Flux ¨C Semis Regulus (Epic+)].¡¯

    ¡®The fate of the world has slightly changed due to this action.¡¯

 Chapter 214: Hot and Cold

    Chapter 214: Hot and Cold

    ¡°I¡¯m done reading through the description, Theresa,¡± Aurus said as he focused his sense of vision towards Theresa before adding, ¡°Go ahead and let me evolve.¡±

    ¡°As you wish, Master,¡± Theresa soon said in response to Aurus¡¯s words, gesturing with its fingers as a white halo of energy surrounded Theresa a few secondster, radiating an aura of magnanimity and power at the same time. Just as it was about to manipte this white halo towards Aurus, a thought suddenly appeared in Aurus¡¯s mind, prompting him to ask Theresa, ¡°Do you know how much time this evolution would take, Theresa?¡±

    ¡°Around 4 weeks, Master,¡± Theresa replied to Aurus¡¯s question, to which Aurus could not help but lightly chuckle as he muttered, ¡°I guess Argentum would be looking at my evolving body for 2 weeks or so. I wonder how strong he¡¯ll be after I evolve.¡±

    Whoosh!

    After Aurus was done muttering to himself, Theresa went ahead and directed the white halo surrounding it towards Aurus, being absorbed by his body not long after as an aura of great intensity radiated from him soon after, jolting Aurus¡¯s allies from their engrossed grinding. They then looked at the origin of the aura they felt, eventually looking at each other with a chuckle as they soon found out that their master was now evolving.

    A few seconds after that, they went back to their grinding while Aurus¡¯s body was slowly transforming into a cocoon, expanding into a white dome that covered a decent portion of the room. Of course, Charisa, who opted to grind beside Aurus, moved away from this dome since she did not want to disturb her master in his evolution process.

    In the center of this white dome was a jade green blob of energy that had motes of light with various colors surrounding it. Red, blue, yellow, white, and ck. These were the colors of the motes of light surrounding the green blob, as if the colors were pertaining to something that existed around and inside the green blob.

    Nevertheless, at this moment, Aurus was fully unconscious, his senses of the outside temporarily gone. A few minutes after the beginning of his evolution process, a notification from the system resounded in an unknown ce, taking on Theresa¡¯s voice since it could not be in its personal assistant form with Aurus evolving.

    ¡®[Aurus ¡ª Tempest Walnut Spiritas Flux (Rare+)] has evolved into [Aurus ¡ª Zephyr Spiritas Flux ¨C Semis Regulus (Epic+)].¡¯

    ¡®The fate of the world has slightly changed due to this action.¡¯

    ¡­

    XXXX Continent, outside the Tempest Cliff.

    ¡°Fire!¡±

    With three humans, two males, and one female out in the open, and four hidden, Argentum could not help but let out a sigh as he activated his polymorph skill. In an instant, Argentum¡¯s distinctive figure as a Wind Spirit was soon transformed into something that could be barely seen by the naked eye if one looked closely.

    A grain of ck sand.

    At the very instant Argentum had transformed into this shape, he hastily suppressed his usual aura, making it seem to the humans that he had disappeared. Hearing the arrows that were aimed at him collide where his ¡®head¡¯ would be, Argentum let out a sigh of relief not long after, moving towards a spot wherein he could still see all of the humans, but in exchange, the humans would not be able to see him.

    Fortunately, it did not take him that long to find a spot, heading up to the peak of a decentlyrge tree as he watched the humans panic over his disappearance. While they were panicking, Argentum could not help but think of his next move, now knowing that these humans were out to get him, even though it was just a mere chance that allowed them to do so.

    ¡®Should I just go and leave them? Making them look like lunatics?¡¯ This was the first thought that came into Argentum¡¯s mind, eventually thinking that it could be a thing that he would possibly do. Although the humans have surrounded him, they have not inflicted any damage on him yet, which meant that there was no grudge whatsoever between him and the humans.

    Just as he was about to act upon this idea and leave the humans behind, the thought he had a while ago when he looked at them by the campfire had sprung up once more. With this new thought in mind, he was now conflicted as to whether he should go ahead and leave them alone, or kill them as materials for his ascension to Super Animate.

    ¡®By the looks of it, these humans only seek profit, not having any moral limits whatsoever,¡¯ Argentum thought as he looked at the humans once more, who were frantically searching around the area using their spells. Listening to their conversations a bit more, the decision in his mind was eventually made, leaving a question which he had to answer on his own.

    ¡®Do I have enough power to kill these humans?¡¯ This was the question that popped up in Argentum¡¯s mind after deciding to go ahead and kill these humans. Although he was indeed killing these humans to procure materials for his ascension to Super Animate, he decided that he was not going to use their flesh and blood, but rather, their energy.

    ¡°From the aura they¡¯re radiating, the strongest out of them seems to be the peak of Rank 0 Animate,¡± Argentum muttered to himself, making sure to not alert them while they still scoured the area. He then added, ¡°Even though a Rank 0 Animate¡¯s flesh and blood would be enough for the process, Erea did say that the stronger the origin of the flesh and blood, the greater effect it would have for my path to bing a God in the long run.¡±

    ¡°Yeah, I¡¯ll just use them for my Power Baptism,¡± Argentum said around half a minuteter, his decision now incredibly firm. With that now done, he then went back to his previous train of thought, which was regarding the dilemma as to whether he had enough power to kill them or not.

    ¡®With [Tempest Awakening] at Adept mastery and [Lesser Wind Magic] at Expert mastery, would I have enough power to kill them in one shot?¡¯ Argentum asked himself in his mind, eventually concluding that thinking about it would serve no purpose. And with that in mind, he then went ahead and attracted the attention of the humans as he shouted, ¡°Well, well, well, how the tables have turned.¡±

    At the very instant his voice was heard by the humans, one of the humans that revealed themselves to him shouted in a shrill voice, ¡°Wind Spirit!¡±

    As for the others, they were silent since they were slightly anxious. It then urred to them that even though he was a Wind Spirit, they had no idea as to how strong it was, making their anxiety gradually intensify as their thoughts turned pessimistic.

    Ignoring what they were thinking about, Argentum continued to talk, saying, ¡°Good thing I¡¯m still within the vicinity, right? I hope you try your best to find me.¡± After that, he went ahead and let out a chuckle with a hint of arrogance.

    Just as it seemed that one of the humans was about to respond to his words, Argentum interrupted them from speaking as he hastily thought of what they were thinking, shouting, ¡°Also, I¡¯ve changed my mind. Back when I checked your clearing, I was supposed to kill all of you.¡±

    This statement brought shivers to everyone, leading everyone to believe that the Wind Spirit they were up against was far stronger than they initially thought. Feeling the tense atmosphere surrounding the humans, Argentum let out a chuckle inwardly as he muttered to himself, ¡°It seems they nned to attack me without a strategy. Time to increase their fear towards me.¡±

    ¡°How about¡­we y a game?¡± Argentum soon asked them, to which one of the humans responded with a shaky voice, ¡°A game¡­?¡±

    ¡°Indeed, a game,¡± Argentum soon replied with an arrogantugh as he thought about the type of game he would have them to y. It had to be a game wherein he would fool the humans that they were getting closer to capturing him, only to find out that they were not even close. Eventually, he thought up a good game to y, albeit the prize for him losing was quite extreme.

    ¡°Here are the rules,¡± Argentum shouted, attracting the attention of the humans as they went silent in an instant. Seeing that their attention was focused on his voice, Argentum went ahead and exined the rules of the game in mind.

    ¡°Do you know the game ¡®Hot and Cold¡¯?¡± Argentum asked all of them, to which everyone slowly nodded their heads in response. Looking at them slowly nod in response to his question, Argentum could not help but wonder as to what kind of culture these humans to have a game from his previous life.

    Either way, he continued with his exnation, saying, ¡°We¡¯re going to y that game, but with a twist. I¡¯m the object you have to find.¡±

    He then continued, ¡°You must choose one person to go ahead and find me with a bow at hand. I¡¯ll tell them whether they¡¯re near where I am or far from where I am. Once that person has an idea as to where I am, they must shoot an arrow as to where I am. If the arrow grazes me ores close to me, you can go ahead and capture me, sell me, use me as a ve or whatever.¡±

    Hearing that the prize, if they won, was the Wind Spirit they yearned to capture, the humans all had ted expressions on their faces, thinking that this game was in their favor. But after they listened to the next portion of Argentum¡¯s exnation, all of them could not help but gulp their saliva.

    ¡°Of course, there¡¯s the opposite. If the arrow hits a ce far away from where I am, I go ahead and kill the one that shot the arrow,¡± Argentum said with a light chuckle. Normally, at this moment, the humans would beining about the rules of the game due to how unfair it seemed. But since they did not know how strong Argentum was, they thought that it would be better for them to ept the wager instead.

    ¡°Are the rules clear?¡± Argentum soon asked them, to which they all nodded simultaneously. After letting out a light chuckle, he then went ahead and shouted, ¡°It¡¯s time for the game to start! Go ahead and choose the first person to seek me!¡±

    With Argentum done speaking, the seven humans went ahead and huddled together in a circle, whispering to one another as to who was going to go first. Eventually, the humans had a unanimous agreement, letting the human with the shrill voice go first as he tightly grasped the bow with slight anxiety and fear.

    Noticing that they had finally chosen a human out of all of them to start the game, Argentum focused his sense of vision towards the human with the shrill voice and said, ¡°Let the game begin. For every move you make, I¡¯ll tell whether you¡¯re hot or cold. Best of luck.¡±

    In response to Argentum¡¯s words, the human with the shrill voice nodded shakily as he loaded his bow with an arrow before going ahead and moving towards a random direction. After a few seconds, Argentum shouted ¡°Colder¡±, prompting the human to head towards another direction after that.

    A few seconds after changing his direction, Argentum then shouted the word ¡°Warm¡±, slightly increasing the human¡¯s confidence that he would be able to shoot Argentum with the bow and arrow in his hand. He then continued to move in the same direction where he was told the word ¡°Warm¡±, gradually getting closer and closer to where Argentum was.

    In the end, the human with the shrill voice had stopped in front of arge tree, to which Argentum shouted ¡°Insanely hot¡± in response. At this moment, the human¡¯s confidence was at an all-time high, thinking that he would win this game in the first round. He then looked around his current surroundings, deducing the possible ce where Argentum could be.

    It did not take long for his rationality and logicality to kick in, ending up with the conclusion that Argentum was in the leaves of the tree in front of him. With a grin on his face, as well as expectations of great honor and pride, the human with a shrill voice pulled the string of the bow back to its limits, releasing it soon after the arrow passed through the leaves at great speeds.

    Twang! Whoosh!

    Not long after, the arrow had soon gone past the leaves of the tree, making the human slightly doubt his conclusion of Argentum being at the leaves of the trees.

    And it seemed¡­that it was indeed the case.

    ¡°It seems you¡¯ve failed to hit me,¡± Argentum soon said with a loud voice, his tone slightly disappointed. He then said, ¡°You know what that means, right????

    Thud.

    In an instant, the knees of the human with the shrill voice buckled, kneeling on the ground as he looked up and pleaded, ¡°No¡­don¡¯t¡­I still have a family¡­¡±

    ¡°What does that have to do with me?¡± Argentum scoffed at the man¡¯s words in response. ¡°You wanted to capture me, so this is what you deserve.¡±

    ¡°No¡­no¡­¡± As the man repeated a singr word signifying his denial over the conclusion of this round, he slowly got up on his knees before slowly heading towards the opposite direction of therge tree. At first, he was trudging along¡­then jogging¡­then running for his life as he shouted, ¡°I don¡¯t wanna die!¡±

    ¡°Toote,¡± Argentum said in a serious tone.

    ¡°[Tempest Awakening].¡±

    ¡°[Lesser Wind Magic: Wind Bolt].¡±

    Whoosh! Bang!

    Surprisingly, the bolt of wind hade from therge tree, though the other humans did not see it since they were looking at the man who was running away. It only took a short while for the bolt to catch up to the running man, hitting the man squarely on the head, piercing through it as blood, chunks of flesh, and other viscous fluids sttered soon after.

    Thud.

    With the running mannding on the ground face first with its face mangled to the point where his facial features could not be made out, the other humans could not help but shudder in intense fear and anxiety, incredibly fearful that they might end up like the running man just now.

    Contrary to what they were feeling, Argentum went ahead and let out a light chuckle before saying, ¡°Let¡¯s start the second round, shall we?¡±

 Chapter 215: Two Golden Leaves

    Chapter 215: Two Golden Leaves

    XXXX Continent, Seraph Kingdom, Arcana Tower.

    ¡°I¡¯m a Mage under the Tenth Prince. How about it, Miss Erea? Would you like to join the Tenth Prince¡¯s team in the War for the Throne? I assure you that you would be treated nicely,¡± Veriano¡¯s voice resounded in Erea¡¯s mind as a light smile was stered on his face. A few secondster, his tone took on a lecherous note as he continued to talk in Erea¡¯s mind, saying, ¡°Especially with an appearance like yours, Miss Erea. I can say without a doubt that you shall be treated nicely by the Tenth Prince and even be one of his concubines!¡±

    When Erea started listening to Veriano¡¯s statements in her mind, at first, she was quite tempted to go ahead and ept the offer, only for her to remember that her mentor Dane asked her to join the Ninth Prince¡¯s team, to which she had epted already. At the instant she remembered that, Erea knew that she was going to decline the offer she was given by Veriano, but only after knowing the terms that came if she did ept it.

    Rather than hearing about the terms of the deal, she instead saw what seemed to be a hidden side of the High Official in front of her, a lecherous side of the man as his eyes examined at her from top to bottom as he continued to talk. Hearing the next statements said by him, Erea instantly had the urge to decline the offer no matter what. She had entered the tower to be stronger and eventually be a Goddess once more, not to be someone¡¯s ything.

    After Veriano was finished speaking in her mind, Erea went ahead and closed her eyes, giving off the feeling that she was thinking about it. In response to this, Veriano reverted to his previous self, a light smile stered on his face as he waited for Erea¡¯s reply. Fortunately, it did not take long for Erea to respond to his statements, asking him, ¡°What would I get if I join the Tenth Prince¡¯s team?¡±

    ¡°At the very least, a thousand gold coins, a staff at the Magic grade, and ess to the Great Spell Library, as well as the ability to grab one Level 2 Spell from there,¡± Veriano replied to her question, keeping up a smile while he talked.

    Hearing what she would get if she joined, Erea unhesitatingly shook her head left to right as she let out a slightly disappointed sigh before looking at Veriano and saying, ¡°I apologize, Sir Veriano. I would like to decline the offer.¡±

    ¡°Hoh?¡± Not expecting Erea¡¯s response, Veriano raised his eyebrows before asking in a slightly shocked tone, ¡°Could you tell me as to why you declined the offer?¡±

    ¡°Noment,¡± Erea said in response to his question before going ahead and closing the door to her training room. She then turned around and shifted her train of thought back to the skill she had obtained after ascending, making her way to the center of the room¡­only for the door to open with a bang not long after, revealing a slightly infuriated Veriano.

    ¡°You¡¯re the first one to decline my offer, don¡¯t you know what?¡± Veriano told Erea as he slowly made his way towards Erea, the aura surrounding him gradually intensifying. In response to the gradually intensifying aura, Erea took in a deep breath as she thought as to how she was going to escape this situation. After thinking about it, Erea went ahead and responded to his statement, saying, ¡°I didn¡¯t know that.¡±

    ¡°You should be grateful that you¡¯re offered something like this, you know?¡± Veriano continued to speak as the aura surrounding him had reached a peak. At this point, Erea found it somewhat hard to breathe, even though the difference between them was just one rank. Then again, Erea was just a newly ascended Rank 3 mage while Veriano was a veteran Rank 4 mage.

    ¡°Most mages would grovel in front of my feet just so they would be epted into the Tenth Prince¡¯s team,¡± Veriano muttered in a slightly annoyed tone while raising his left palm, a ball of mana slightly manifesting on top of it. He then continued, his tone now slightly infuriated, ¡°And yet, here you are, declining my offer even though I went ahead and came on my ord to ask you to join the Tenth Prince¡¯s team.¡±

    Bzzt! Bzzt!

    Not long after, the ball of mana started to create sparks as it took on a light blue hue. Looking at this, Erea then realized that Veriano was a mage well-versed in the arts of lightning magic, seeing as how he could control a ball of lightning very easily.

    ¡°You know what?¡± Veriano looked at Erea with a slight frown before saying, ¡°People who don¡¯t follow the strong should just disappear.¡±

    Hearing Veriano¡¯sst statement, Erea could not help but close her eyes, not wanting to see what was going to happen to her in the next instant.

    Whoosh!

    Unfortunately for Veriano, just as he waved his left arm to throw the ball of lightning towards Erea, any trace of Erea had disappeared in an instant, leaving the ball of lightning to collide with the walls of the room Erea was previously in, charring a great portion of it due to the power behind the spell.

    ¡°What¡­where did she go?¡± This was the first few words that came out of Veriano¡¯s mouth as he asked himself in disbelief. He went ahead and looked around the room she was previously in, wondering if she was in some sort of hidden space where only she had ess to. After using all of his mana to find out that there was no secret space in her room, the disbelief on Veriano¡¯s face had intensified as he asked, ¡°Where did that woman go?¡±

    ¡°What woman?¡± In response to Veriano¡¯s question, a voice answered back with a question, originating near the door to Erea¡¯s room. Hastily turning his head, Veriano soon saw a man who donned a red robe just like him, but his facial features were at the level of handsome, which was further entuated by the ck-rimmed sses he wore.

    After realizing who the man that responded to his question was, a slightly infuriated expression appeared on Veriano¡¯s face as he said, ¡°Dane Grossezauber, a Rank 4 mage under the Ninth Prince. What brings you here to a random mage¡¯s room? Are you here to recruit that mage as well?¡±

    ¡°Hmm?¡± Dane could not help but tilt his head in slight confusion, processing Veriano¡¯s question in his mind for a short bit before finally getting what he was trying to imply. Apanied with a light chuckle, Dane soon answered, ¡°By that mage, you mean my student Erea Magimillia?¡±

    ¡°Yes, your student Erea Magimilli¡ª¡± As if it was instinct, Veriano responded to Dane¡¯s question, only for him to realize how Dane called the mage he was recruiting a while ago. He then blinked twice in disbelief before focusing his vision on Dane once more. He then went ahead and asked him, ¡°Wait a second¡­your student?¡±

    ¡°Mhm.¡± Dane nodded in response to Veriano¡¯s question before saying, ¡°I wouldn¡¯te to the lower floors for no reason if she wasn¡¯t my student.¡± He then squinted his eyes at Veriano before asking him, ¡°How about you? What made youe here to the lower floors?¡±

    In response to Dane???s question, Veriano let out an awkward chuckle before replying, ¡°Er¡­I was just here to officiate your student¡¯s advancement to the next rank. That¡¯s all. Trust me on this one.¡±

    ¡°Hoh?¡± Dane raised his eyebrow as he listened to Veriano¡¯s answer, a light teasing smile appearing on his face. ¡°Didn¡¯t you just ask me a while ago if I was recruiting Erea? Are you really sure that you¡¯re just here to officiate my student¡¯s advancement?¡±

    Realizing that he was caught red-handed with his previous words as evidence, Veriano could not help but softly shout the word ¡°Fuck¡± as he turned his around for a short second. After that, he looked at Dane with a light smile before saying, ¡°Eh? Did I say that? I think you¡¯re mistaken, Dane. I truly came here to officiate your student¡¯s advancement, I swear.¡±

    Seeing that the man slightly far away from him was not going to confess, Dane could not help but let out a sigh before saying, ¡°Do you really want to be demoted that badly?¡±

    ¡°Demoted?¡± Hearing this worde from Dane, Veriano could not help but lightly chuckle, which turned into slightly raucousughter a few secondster. He then looked at Dane before telling him, ¡°Demote me? Someone who¡¯s a High Official of the Tower? The only possible way to demote me is only if you have a higher position than m¡ª¡±

    Swish!

    Just as Veriano was about to finish his sentence, a bright sh of light came from Dane¡¯s robe, two golden leaves appearing on his robe not long after. A few secondster, a golden engraving of an eye and a sword appeared below the two golden leaves as Dane looked at Veriano before asking him with a smile, ¡°As long as I have a higher position than you, right? Would this be enough?¡±

    ¡°Two golden leaves¡­¡± Veriano¡¯s eyes widened after looking at the engraving that had just appeared on Dane¡¯s robe, his eyes fixating on a certain part of the engraving as he shouted, ¡°An eye and a sword! Not only are you an Educator of the Tower, but you¡¯re a Battle Mage as well?!¡±

    Those with two golden leaves or more engraved on their robes are known by their collective term as the core officials of the tower. Of course, mages with two or more golden leaves are incredibly rare to find, the reason being as to why is that the minimum requirement for a mage to have two golden leaves is to be a Rank 4 mage.

    These core officials are then split into two branches, those that are well-versed in teaching, which is symbolized by an eye under their golden leaves, and those that are well-versed in fighting, which is symbolized by a sword under their golden leaves. It¡¯s moremon to find someone who has an eye or a sword under their golden leaves whenpared to someone who has both symbols under their golden leaves while exploring the Arcana Tower.

    Thud.

    Looking at the engravings on Dane¡¯s robe for a bit longer, Veriano¡¯s legs could not help but buckle under the pressure and fear of Dane actually acting upon his words. Seeing that Veriano¡¯s legs gave way, a light chuckle resounded from Dane¡¯s mouth as he made his way closer to Veriano while asking him, ¡°So, are you going tell me what you were truly doing here?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m telling you the truth! I was tasked by the tower to officiate your student¡¯s advancement!¡± Veriano responded to Dane¡¯s question in a slightly desperate tone as he rummaged through his robe, bringing out a green crystal a few secondster.

    ¡°Here¡¯s proof that I was here to officiate! The ss Crystal! Only those who officiate advancements have these!¡± Veriano continued to speak, his tone gradually bing more desperate.

    ¡°Oh, I don¡¯t doubt you on that part,¡± Dane responded to Veriano¡¯s question, telling him that he knew that part already. ¡°I¡¯m just asking about what you did after officiating her advancement. Were you recruiting her or not? Tell me the truth and I won¡¯t demote you.¡±

    In response to Dane¡¯s question, Veriano decided to stay silent after saying, ¡°I¡¯ve told you all I¡¯ve done.¡± Seeing that he decided to stay silent, Dane scratched his head as he looked at Veriano before telling him, ¡°You know, I didn¡¯t want to resort to this, but you leave me no choice if you¡¯re not going to answer.¡±

    Whoosh!

    After saying what he had to say, Dane went ahead and snapped his fingers. Not long after, a cruel-looking man in what seemed to be in his 40s appeared beside Dane, wearing a green robe. Looking at the color of the robe the man was wearing, Veriano¡¯s pupils instantly shrunk as he muttered, ¡°Rank 5¡­¡±

    ¡°Indeed, he¡¯s a Rank 5 mage,¡± Dane said in response to Veriano¡¯s mutters with a light grin. He then went ahead and ced his hand on the man¡¯s left shoulder before saying, ¡°His name is Cerius Bruciari.¡±

    ¡°Cerius, that¡¯s Veriano,¡± Dane soon said to the man beside him as he pointed at Veriano. He then added, ¡°It seems that he came to my student¡¯s room to recruit her to another team. I¡¯ve already warned him that I¡¯ll demote him if he doesn¡¯t admit to it, but it seems he still doesn¡¯t want to budge.¡±

    ¡°Could you take care of this, Cerius?¡± Dane looked at the man with a smile on his face. In response to Dane¡¯s question, the man named Cerius eded to his request as he said in a deep voice, ¡°Understood.¡±

    Snap!

    As Cerius made his way towards Veriano, he snapped his fingers, revealing four golden leaves that surrounded a dius on the upper left side of his robe. Since he was apprehensive of the maning closer to him, Veriano¡¯s senses were on full alert, hastily noticing the symbol that had just appeared on the man¡¯s robe. After realizing what it was, a wall in Veriano¡¯s mind seemed to have broken as he stood up and shouted, ¡°Alright! I give up!¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll tell you what you want to know!¡±

    ¡°Just promise me that I won¡¯t be demoted!¡±

    Listening to Veriano¡¯s plea, a sinister grin appeared on Dane¡¯s face as he responded, ¡°Alright.¡±

    ¡°I promise.¡±

 Chapter 216: Milking Out Loot

    Chapter 216: Milking Out Loot

    ¡°Let¡¯s start the second round, shall we?¡± Argentum said with a light chuckle, a stark contrast to the fear and anxiety the humans felt from how easy it was for the Wind Spirit, which they sought out to capture, to kill them. In actuality, disregarding what Argentum was portraying on the outside, Argentum was feeling incredible shock and surprise from the attack he had just made.

    ¡®Although [Lesser Wind Magic] is only at the C-grade Mortal level, to think that it has enough power to pierce through the head of a Rank 0 Animate without a problem¡­¡¯ This was the thought that came to his mind, recalling how the wind bolt he threw pierced through that man¡¯s head like butter. Thanks to this, he felt a bit more confident in his power to kill them in one hit.

    ¡®Then again, that arrow was incredibly close. If it was aimed at a slightly curved angle, it would¡¯ve definitely hit me, even in my current form,¡¯ Argentum thought to himself as he inwardly let out a sigh of relief, remembering how close the arrow was to hitting him. ¡®Of course, even if they hit me, I would still say they missed regardless.¡¯

    After he was finished pondering, he then focused his sense of vision back to the six remaining humans out of the seven, with all of them looking at the recently killed human with bated breaths. The words said by Argentum a while ago seemed to serve as a wake-up call to what was happening to them right now, prompting them to focus their trains of thought back to the game, huddling together once more to talk about the second person to attempt the game.

    Unlike before, the discussion between the six did not go so peacefully since they were now aware of what would happen to them if they did not hit or graze Argentum. Surprisingly, even though that was the case, the six of them eventually chose a human to participate in the second round, who was one of the four archers hidden a while ago when they thought they would be able to capture Argentum without a problem.

    Then again, Argentum heard the discussion between the six of them as they chose on who was going to participate in the round, with that human only agreeing to participate after being offered a lot of rewards in exchange. Thanks to that, the confidence the human had in sessfully clearing this second round was quite high as he recalled the additional rewards he would obtain if he seeded. But that did not stop him from recalling what had happened a while ago, his confidence slightly wavering in exchange for fear and anxiety.

    Nevertheless, that human moved in front of the six with a bow tightly clenched. Seeing this, Argentum went ahead and shouted, ¡°Are you the one that¡¯s going to participate in the second round?¡±

    In response to his question, the human nodded, to which Argentum replied, ¡°Let us begin the second round, then!¡±

    At the very instant Argentum was finished speaking, the human soon started to move, with Argentum going ahead and telling him whether he was near or far from Argentum. Of course, while Argentum was doing this, he could not help but snigger inwardly as he thought, ¡®Although these humans know where I currently am thanks to the first round, I¡¯m going to mislead them into thinking that I¡¯ve moved to another tree, even though I haven¡¯t.¡¯

    ¡®As long as their heads turn around to look at the human running away from my attack, I could keep up this facade until thest human dies under my bolt,¡¯ Argentum thought to himself, thinking that it was quite a genius n.

    And so, a few minutes have passed, with the verdict being Argentum leading the human to believe that he was in a tree slightly far away from where Argentum currently was. Hearing those words, the human¡¯s confidence slightly increased as he recalled the rewards he would get after this, pulling back on the string of the bow to its limit before letting it go, creating a slightly louder twang sound than what was made by the first human.

    Whoosh!

    Apanied by that sound, the arrow passed through the tree at a significantly higher speed, only for it to go past its leaves without Argentum saying anything. At this point, the human¡¯s confidence was instantly recing with gradually intensifying fear and anxiety. The human¡¯s legs were trembling, not wanting to imagine what would happen to him.

    Just as Argentum was about to state his verdict on the second round, the human went ahead and ran as fast as he could away from Argentum. In response to this, Argentum¡¯s voice resounded throughout the area as he sighed, saying, ¡°To be honest, I was nning to spare you on the second round, but since you¡¯ve decided to run away, we¡¯re back to painless deaths.¡±

    ¡°[Tempest Awakening].¡±

    ¡°[Lesser Wind Magic: Wind Bolt].¡±

    Whoosh! Bang!

    And just like that, the wind bolt hastily made its way towards its target once more, this time aiming at the human¡¯s throat. Thanks to the status boosting buff applied on the attack, the wind bolt easily pierced through the human¡¯s throat, making a holerge enough that even turned the man¡¯s arteries to shreds, leading to a gushing blood fountaining from his throat as he tried to close it up with his hands.

    Unfortunately, the amount of blood he was losing was severe, eventually leading to his death as he fell to the ground with his hands clutched around his throat. Looking at the fate of the second human in their group, the remaining five¡¯s fear and anxiety towards Argentum had reached a higher level, wondering if the Wind Spirit they were up against was so strong that any part it hit from them would lead to their death.

    Of course, Argentum wouldn¡¯t tell them how strong he truly was.

    After the death of the second human, Argentum went ahead and shouted, ¡°And with that done, let us now move on to the third round!¡±

    Unfortunately for Argentum, just as he thought that the humans were going to obediently follow his rules and proceed with the third round like some servant, one of the humans went ahead and cried out in response to his words, ¡°This game is rigged! You attacked from the location you were in on the first round! Doesn¡¯t that mean that you intentionally said the first person missed while you misled the second person to their death?¡±

    Hearing the human¡¯s words, Argentum could not help but ponder as to how they found that out. While Argentum was pondering over it, the other remaining humans looked at the human that shouted out and mustered their courage to say that the game was unfair to Argentum. It did not take long for all of the humans to have their fear be reced with what seemed to be conviction and pride. As to whether this pride came from their higher existence level or from the idea that they found out what Argentum was doing, no one would ever know.

    Seeing that their fear towards him had changed into something else, Argentum changed his train of thought from a while ago. He was now pondering whether he should persuade them to continue the third round with their subconscious fear towards him or change it into something else, making the humans feel like they¡¯ve won, even though they ultimately did not.

    As he thought about these two choices a bit more, Argentum seemed to lean a bit more towards the second choice, thinking that he would be able to extort a lot more items from them whenpared to the first one, where the rewards he would obtain from them was only their bodies and the items on them. It was then that a sh of inspiration appeared in his mind, instantly making Argentum favor the second choice as heughed inwardly at the thought that he had just formted.

    ¡®With this choice, I would not only be able to obtain their items, but I would also be able to obtain their knowledge as well!¡¯ Argentum thought to himself. The sh of inspiration that appeared in his mind was that of the knowledge of humans, or to be more specific, the knowledge of skills they had. He was thinking of making them surrender in exchange for giving them all of the information they had about skills, as well as the important items they had on them.

    With this in mind, he could not help but look at the two bodies he had killed and muttered, ¡°Now that I think about it, two Rank 0 bodies have more than enough energy for me to undergo the first Power Baptism, so why should I go ahead and kill the others without obtaining more rewards from them?¡±

    At this point, the humans thought that Argentum¡¯s silence was a way of telling them that they had won over his wits, that he was going to give up the game. Unfortunately for them, Argentum¡¯s voice resounded once more, breaking this illusion they had in their minds as he said, ¡°You know, I could just say that I was actually in the tree the second human was at a while ago, but moved back to the first one to attack and none would be the wiser, right?¡±

    In an instant, the humans¡¯ confidence and pride had crumbled, reverting to fear once more as they thought that the game they were ying was going to continue. But after hearing what Argentum said afterward, this fear had turned to that of slight relief.

    ¡°But sure, I¡¯ll admit to it. I wasn¡¯t in the other tree in the second round,¡± Argentum said.

    Just as they thought that the game was now over, Argentum continued to talk, removing the relief they felt a while ago in an instant.

    ¡°We¡¯re still going to continue the game though. Let¡¯s just say the first two rounds didn¡¯t count,¡± Argentum uttered as he chuckled with a malicious tone. It was at that instant that something inside one of the remaining humans broke as that human shouted, ¡°Do you n to torture us one by one with this game? Isn¡¯t the conclusion just all of us dead? If so, just kill all of us at once, for fuck¡¯s sake! I¡¯d rather die right now than go through a game like this again!¡±

    ¡°Calm down there,¡± Argentum said, slightly bewildered by the response of the human. He then continued, ¡°I was actually thinking of giving you five a choice to choose.¡±

    Hearing that the Wind Spirit that killed their brethren without a problem was seemingly giving them a chance to live after what was done to them, the five of them could not help but think that their ears were clogged up with wax or something. Ignoring what they were feeling, Argentum continued talking, ¡°You have two choices. One, we continue the game and all of you die off one by one¡­¡±

    ¡°Or two, surrender all of your valuable items to me, as well as the knowledge of every skill you know. If you do that, I¡¯ll set you free,¡± Argentum added, to which the five humans looked at each other.

    To them, the choice was incredibly obvious. By choosing the second option, they would be free. Skills and items were just material objects they could regain in the future, there was no problem with that. But then, just as one of the humans was about to speak up and choose the second choice, the human that shouted a while ago yelled once more, saying, ¡°Huh?! Give up our skills and items?! I¡¯d rather die than give it to a lowly Pseudo-Animate like you! What are you going to do with it anyway?! Use it as some sort of¡ª¡±

    Bang!

    Even before the human could finish saying what it was trying to say, a bolt of wind had pierced through the human¡¯s chest without a problem with great force, destroying its heart in an instant as blood gushed from both sides of the human¡¯s body. It did not take long for the human to die from blood loss like the previous human, the expression on its face filled with disbelief and regret.

    The four remaining humans looked at the human that was killed off just now with intense disbelief. Just like that, the human that was with them a while ago was now dead thanks to a bolt of wind. All of them could not help but wonder about the same thing.

    ¡®How strong is this Wind Spirit? And we actually had the balls to try and catch it?¡¯

    Just as their thoughts were about to gradually wander off, a bolt of wind collided with the ground a few decimeters in front of them, jolting them back to reality as Argentum¡¯s voice soon resounded.

    ¡°So¡­have you four made your choices?¡± Argentum asked them.

    In response, the four remaining humans looked at each other before looking at the tree where Argentum was. They then simultaneously nodded their heads as all of them said not long after, ¡°We have decided to choose the second choice.¡±

    ¡°Hehehe.¡± Argentum chuckled in response to their answer as he said not long after, ¡°Truly a wise choice.¡±

 Chapter 217: False Belief

    Chapter 217: False Belief

    After hearing the four remaining humans ept the second choice, Argentum could not help let out a light chuckle before saying, ¡°Truly a wise choice.¡±

    Whoosh!

    Since the four remaining humans have agreed to offer him valuable items and their knowledge of skills, Argentum saw no need to be up in the trees anymore, moving down to a distance decently far away from them before going ahead and disabling his polymorph skill, reverting to his original form, which shocked the four remaining humans.

    Finally seeing the one that killed their three brethren in front of them, all of them could not help but look at Argentum with gazes of intense fear and anxiety, with their legs feeling like they¡¯re going to give in. Fortunately, they did not let their legs give in as they remembered that they had epted the second choice, allowing them to go free as long as they just gave him what needed. There was no need for them to sacrifice their allies anymore.

    Looking at the gazes the four remaining humans gave him, Argentum let out a chuckle once more before taking in a deep breath. He then focused his sense of vision onto the four humans before asking them, ¡°Let¡¯s start the trade, shall we?¡±

    ¡°First, let¡¯s start with valuable items,¡± Argentum soon added, to which one of the humans mustered up their courage and asked in response, ¡°By valuable items, you mean¡­?¡±

    ¡°The currency that you have on you right now,¡± Argentum said in response to the human¡¯s question. He then continued, ¡°Of course, the clothes and the equipment the four of you are wearing right now are also considered valuable items, but I don¡¯t have a need for them.¡±

    ¡°But currency is different,¡± Argentum added not long after. ¡°Currency has a fixed value anywhere you go. And so, that¡¯s all I¡¯ll ask from you four. All of your currency¡­and a pouch to put it in.¡±

    Hearing Argentum¡¯s exnation, the four of them looked at each other with slightly confused expressions. The air that they felt from Argentum was vastly different from what they felt before. Although Argentum¡¯s words made a lot of sense since people had different sses and specialties, it did not have the murderous and sinister air Argentum¡¯s words had before. It was as if¡­the Argentum they were talking to right now was a different Wind Spirit altogether.

    Even though the feeling they got from the current Argentum was different, all of them still knew how powerful the Wind Spirit in front of him was. And so, with the Wind Spirit¡¯s previous feats of killing in their mind, the four of them hastily rummaged through all of their pockets in their clothes for currency, eventually pooling a decent amount of currency. The four of them then conversed with one another as to who was going to give the Wind Spirit a pouch to hold the currency in, with one of them eventually giving his pouch to Argentum due to the reason that its design was quite exquisite whenpared to the pouches of the others.

    Receiving the pouch of money the four had pooled in with both hands, Argentum listened to the words of one of the humans as he said, ¡°Great Wind Spirit, unfortunately, the amount of money on us at the moment only equates to around 7 gold coins. I hope the design of the pouch appeases you.¡±

    In response to the words of the human, Argentum went ahead and raised their pouch in the air, allowing him to get a better view of the design on the pouch. The pouch was made out of incredibly smooth ck fabric while the string that bound the pouchplemented the fabric, being a dark gray color. On the fabric were engravings of animals and nts out of what seemed to be gold, giving the pouch an expensive feel.

    Argentum closed his sense of vision for a bit as he pondered over something, hemming and hawing in the process. Hearing the Wind Spirit in front of them hem and haw, the four of them could not help but feel a bit of fear, wondering if what they offered wasn¡¯t enough. In their minds, they had a feeling that the Wind Spirit in front of them would kill them if what they gave wascking.

    Surprisingly, that did not happen at all as Argentum opened his sense of vision, focusing it on the four humans. He then went ahead and ced the pouch on the ground before saying, ¡°Give me your secondary weapons. As humans with fighting sses, you¡¯d definitely have back-up weapons, right?¡±

    ¡°Although the amount of currency you¡¯ve given is somewhatcking, by selling your secondary weapons, it would allow the amount of currency on me to be at a satisfactory level,¡± Argentum soon added. He then continued, ¡°Don¡¯t you think giving your secondary weapons is far than being killed?¡±

    At this moment, Argentum radiated an aura of cheerfulness, to which the humans felt hidden killing intent from. Of course, Argentum was not radiating any hidden killing intent at all, he was purely radiating an aura of happiness. The humans only thought that he was radiating hidden killing intent after what he had done to their brethren.

    As slightly loud sounds resounded throughout the forest under the pale moonlight, the four of them hastily rummaged through their bodies once more, grabbing their back-up weapons as said by Argentum. A few secondster, four distinct ng sounds softly resounded as four items fell to the ground near the pouch given to Argentum, allowing Argentum to closely look at what was given to him.

    Unsurprisingly, Argentum was given four daggers of the same quality and size. He then looked at the four and felt that it was normal for them to be carrying daggers as secondary weapons. Daggers were quite a handy tool for humans wherever they went, may it be for killing or other misceneous tasks.

    Just as the four thought that the daggers they gave him were not enough, Argentum let out a sigh of satisfaction before saying, ¡°Although these daggers are on the slightly inferior side of quality, they¡¯re more than enough to supplement the amount of currency you four have given me. That shall be all for valuable items.¡±

    Hearing that the Wind Spirit was satisfied with what they¡¯ve given him, the four of them could not help but let out sighs of relief as they looked at each other. Surprisingly, even though it seemed that the daggers they threw at Argentum were all they had, in actuality, they hid more back-up weapons that were of higher quality and price on other parts of their bodies. They just gave him the daggers that were on the side of their waists, thinking that Argentum would not be able to find out that they had other back-up weapons on them.

    Ignoring what was going on in their minds, Argentum went ahead and grabbed the pouch and daggers with his hands made out of green energy, silently muttering what seemed to be gibberish to the four.

    Whoosh!

    As the four looked at what Argentum was doing, their eyes soon widened to a great degree after seeing that the items that they gave Argentum had disappeared into thin air in an instant. Seeing this, their fear of Argentum had subconsciously increased since it seemed that Argentum had more power than meets the eye.

    Of course, the gibberish that Argentum was muttering wasmands to the system, as well as questions regarding whether the system could keep these items inside some sort of inventory. Surprisingly, it was then that Argentum found out that the system actually had a small inventory inside it, allowing him to store the loot he had been given without a problem. With the items now out of the way, he then focused his sense of vision back to the four, making them feel a bit tense.

    Nonchnt to what they were feeling, Argentum went ahead and said, ¡°With the valuable items now done, there is only one more thing left you four have to give me.¡±

    ¡°Your skills,¡± Argentum soon continued before letting out a light chuckle. ¡°So¡­who¡¯s gonna go first and share their skills with me?¡±

    The four of them looked at each other in response to his question before all of them took deep breaths at the same time. Eventually, one of the four humans stepped forward and shared all of the skills that he knew with Argentum, increasing the number of skills Argentum had after talking about it with the human back and forth for a few times to solidify it. Not only that, but the human also went ahead and showed the skills in front of Argentum, allowing him to get a better idea of the skills that he had received.

    With the first one now being done sharing his skills, he could not help but let out a sigh of relief as he radiated an aura of happiness. In his mind, he knew that he was finally going to be free from what seemed to be torture. Seeing the effect sharing skills had on their ally, the remaining three hastily moved towards Argentum and started exining their skills and their uses. Of course, since the three were bbering at the same time, to Argentum, it felt like he was listening to a cacophony of sounds instead of exnations.

    With that in mind, he prompted the remaining three to go one by one, to which the three unhesitatingly followed, with each one of them exining their skills in-depth while allowing Argentum to get a feel of the skills that he had learned as well.

    And so, about a couple of hours had passed, with the moon now nearing the peak of the sky as stars twinkled beside it. At this moment, the four remaining humans all had rxed smiles on their faces, knowing that they had done all of the things Argentum told them to do. They were incredibly certain that Argentum was going to hold up his end of the deal, which he was.

    Now finished with processing and organizing all of the skills he had received from the four humans, Argentum radiated tion and happiness as he told them, ¡°Since you four held your part of the deal, the four of you are now free to go. Stay safe, okay?¡±

    Hearing that they were now allowed to go, the four of them jumped up and down in joy as they unhesitatingly went ahead and turned around to head towards the nearest civilization in their minds as fast as possible.

    As Argentum looked at the fleeting silhouettes of the four, he could not help but let out a light snigger as he muttered to himself, ¡°Who knew extorting humans was actually fun. Anyways, time to finish the n I had in mind.¡±

    Whoosh!

    Not long after finishing what he had to say, Argentum soon activated his polymorph skill once more, transforming into a speck of ck sand yet again. He then went ahead and moved towards the direction as to where the four humans were heading as fast as possible while chuckling in his mind.

    ¡­

    With the four of them now free from what seemed to be a nightmare, the four of them let out boisterousughter simultaneously, all of them slightly in disbelief that they were able to escape from an incredibly powerful Pseudo-Animate, who they thought was only a weak Pseudo-Animate. Although they were in disbelief, tion and happiness were the strongest emotions they felt, with a mix of slight mncholy and sadness after remembering the untimely deaths of their three brethren.

    ¡°Who knew they¡¯d go out like that,¡± one of the humans said to the others. ¡°To be honest, I wasn¡¯t expecting thest one to lose his mind andin against that Wind Spirit.¡±

    ¡°Yeah, I wasn¡¯t expecting it as well,¡± another human replied to the first human¡¯s words before looking at the ground while walking. Not long after, this human let out a long sigh before saying, ¡°You know what? We should go ahead and stop living our current lives of banditry. We should go and get stable yet righteous jobs.¡±

    ¡°Mercenary groups?¡± the first human could not help but say in response to the other human¡¯s words, to which the other human nodded before saying, ¡°Yeah. We could be a mercenary group specialized in killing monsters. We would be able to live stable and rich lives while paying off the massive debt we have.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m all in for that but¡­¡± Just as the first human was about to ept the other human¡¯s proposal, one of the other humans could not help but interrupt, saying, ¡°Don¡¯t you two have any intentions of avenging the deaths of the three brethren we lost? Although that Wind Spirit seems to be incredibly strong, as long as we have enough reinforcements, we could kill it, you know? Perhaps, we could even catch it.¡±

    ¡°Sure, we could go ahead and kill that Wind Spirit, but don¡¯t you know how expensive it is to hire people with higher ranks?¡± the second human could not help but reply to the third human¡¯s words, feeling that it was a waste of time and money to avenge people that were already dead. ¡°A Rank 1 ss holder already costs 400 gold coins to hire, with a Rank 2 ss holder costing 5 times more than that. Haven¡¯t you ever thought that they could die from the Wind Spirit¡¯s attacks as well? If they die, we¡¯d have to pay 10 times their original cost!¡±

    ¡°But brother¡­!¡± the third human shouted in response to the second human¡¯s words, only for his words to be stuck in his throat, feeling that his throat was quite airy. Wondering what it was, he then looked down, his eyes widening as he found out that a gaping hole had been formed on his throat, prompting him to hastily clutch his throat with his hands.

    Noticing that one of their brethren was struggling all of a sudden, the remaining three could not help but look at what was happening to their struggling brethren, their pupils shrinking as they noticed the gaping hole on their brethren¡¯s throat. In an instant, the remaining three were reminded of the viciousness of the Pseudo-Animate that attacked them a while ago as their struggling brethren fell to the ground with a thud, dying with an expression filled with regret and sadness.

    ¡°Great Wind Spirit!¡± the first human shouted as the three unhesitatingly ran far away from the corpse of their formerly struggling brethren. ¡°I thought you promised to let us go!¡±

    ¡°But I did.¡± Not long after, Argentum¡¯s voice could be heard resounding throughout the surroundings as he let out a malicious chuckle. ¡°I did let you four go. But that doesn¡¯t mean I won¡¯t kill you four, right?¡±

    Hearing Argentum¡¯s response to the first human¡¯s words, the remaining three humans¡¯ pupils shrunk even further as they pushed their bodies to the limit. It was then that they realized that the Pseudo-Animate they were up against did not have any intention of letting them go in the first ce. He was nning to kill all of them in order for his presence to not be known by other humans.

    ¡°Even if you run away from me, that won¡¯t stop you from dying!¡± Argentum shouted as he cackled, sending two bolts of wind simultaneously towards two humans, these bolts of wind hitting two humans directly in the head. In an instant, the heads of the two humans burst like watermelons, with tons of blood sttering not long after.

    Thud.

    Seeing how easy it was for the Wind Spirit they were up against to kill his brethren once more, the remaining living human felt his legs buckle as he fell to the ground with a thud. He hastily tried to stand up after that, only for him to stop as he felt a malicious presence behind him, making him turn around, only to see Argentum in his original form.

    ¡°Why¡­are you doing this?¡± the human asked Argentum with great fear. In response to this question, Argentum let out a chuckle before saying, ¡°Because I can.¡±

    ¡°[Lesser Wind Magic: Wind Bolt]!¡±

    Whoosh!

    Without hesitation, Argentum soon threw a bolt of wind on the forehead of the remaining human, creating a clean hole through it as the human soon fell to the ground with a thud, his expression still that of great fear.

    After seeing thest remaining human die from his attacks, Argentum could not help but let out a sigh of relief before saying, ¡°Two birds with one stone? Three birds with one stone?¡±

    ¡°Ah well. It doesn¡¯t matter. All I care about is bing a Super Animate anyway.¡±

 Chapter 218: Great Hauls and Unstoppable Urges

    Chapter 218: Great Hauls and Unstoppable Urges

    After muttering those few words, Argentum soon went ahead and bent his knees to get closer to the corpse. Letting out a light chuckle, he muttered as his hands started to move, ¡°If only the idea of extorting their knowledge of skills came to my mind far earlier, I would¡¯ve gotten more skills I could grind and enhance, thus increasing my power. Then again, this current scenario is leaning towards the better side of things anyway.¡±

    ¡°I should go ahead and remove all of the items on the corpses though,¡± Argentum added as he removed the clothes thest human he killed was wearing. Of course, he also removed the equipment that was on the human, its primary weapon, and all of the back-up weapons on its body. Seeing the number of back-up weapons this human had on it, Argentum could not help but imitate the sound of someone clicking their tongue before muttering, ¡°As expected. They were hiding a lot of weapons in them. I wonder if all of the stuff I get from them would fit inside the system¡¯s inventory?¡±

    After a few minutes, all of the items on thest human Argentum killed were finally removed, leaving the faceless human only in its undergarments. He soonmanded the system to keep all of the items he looted inside the system¡¯s inventory, to which the system had no problem doing so. Somewhat realizing that the size of the system¡¯s inventory was farrger than he imagined, Argentum radiated a slight aura of shock for a short bit before letting out a light chuckle as he moved on to the secondst person he killed.

    Argentum had a n in mind while he was doing this looting business. He was going to loot thest human he killed first dry of equipment before moving onto the secondst human, eventually finishing with the first human he killed, the one with the shrill voice. The reason as to why he was doing it in this manner was because he was taking into consideration the amount of energy that was still in their bodies.

    Indeed, he was going to go ahead and use the energy stored inside these corpses to initiate his first Power Baptism, which would increase his conversion factor by 10 times, easily increasing the power of his attacks and other stats by 10 times. He had a feeling that the amount of energy stored inside the first human he killed had already dissipated to a certain extent, giving him the idea that he should prioritize the absorption of the energy of the first human.

    Of course, he could go ahead and head back to the body of the first human, loot all of its equipment, then siphon all of its remaining energy, but that would be a waste of his stamina. He was already somewhat far away from where the first three bodies he killed were. By heading back to the first three humans he killed before heading back to the final four, he was just going to use up more of his stamina in the process.

    And so, he made apromise in his mind, hastily looting all of the equipment from the final four humans he killed before hastily making his way back to the first three humans he killed. With that in mind, it did not take long for Argentum to loot all of the equipment from thest four humans he killed, with the system still epting all of the items he asked it to store without a problem.

    Just as he was about to head back to the first three humans he killed, a thought rted to the previous ones he had appeared in his mind, making him ponder quite a bit.

    ¡®Now that I think about it, I¡¯d waste a lot of stamina and time heading back to the first three humans, looting their equipment, and siphoning their energy. Since the amount of energy inside them is gradually dissipating, I should go ahead and absorb the energy stored in these four corpses first before going ahead and heading back,¡¯ Argentum thought to himself, his train of thought eventually heading towards the topic of how he was going to siphon the energy out of their bodies.

    It was then that Argentum realized that he had no skill or method rted to siphoning energy from objects. In an instant, Argentum felt dejected since it seemed like the energy inside these corpses he killed would just dissipate away without anyone using them. He could not help but mutter to himself, ¡°If I realized that I had no way of siphoning their way in the first ce, I might¡¯ve just gone ahead with my first choice from before, leaving them clueless as to where I am.¡±

    ¡°But then again¡­the loot I¡¯ve obtained from them so far is not small either,¡± Argentum soon added as he pondered on how he was going to solve this problem. After about a couple of minutes or so, a thought that seemed to be the natural train of thought appeared in his mind as he took in a deep breath. At this moment, he felt a bit of uncertainty as to whether it would work or not.

    If it did not work, then he would just leave the corpses be and be on his way, continuing on his journey to Verdant Breeze Town. This situation was just a bit of a detour for him anyway. He had already obtained quite a good chunk of loot from them, so Argentum could not say that he did not go empty-handed.

    But if it did work, Argentum would have more courage and confidence in aplishing the subtasks he had nned out in this journey of his. Not only that, but it would also increase his confidence in defending and retaliating against ambushes from humans that were eyeing him.

    Letting out a short sigh, he then went ahead and asked the system as he focused his sense of vision towards one of the corpses, ¡°System, do you have a way of absorbing the energy stored within these corpses?¡±

    Ding!

    It did not take long for the system to respond to his message as a feminine-sounding voice resounded in his mind, saying, ¡°Unfortunately, User, the system does not have a method of absorbing energy from other objects.¡±

    Hearing this response, Argentum could not help but feel a bit glum as he let out a sigh, saying, ¡°Even though I was expecting it, it still feels bad to hear it directly from the system. Then again, the system isn¡¯t a jack of all tra¡ª¡±

    Just as he wasing to terms with how the system was not omnipotent, the feminine-sounding voice of the system continued to resound in his mind from where it left off, saying, ¡°That is only if the system had not undergone an upgrade in its OS. Right now, the system has multiple methods of absorbing energy from objects, utilizing artificial intelligence to choose the optimal method of absorbing energy for a certain object, allowing the user to obtain as much energy stored in them as possible.¡±

    ¡°Huh¡­?¡± Hearing the continuation of the system¡¯s voice, Argentum could not help but think that he had heard wrongly, only for the system to dispel this notion in his mind as a screen disying the reply it had just voiced out appeared in front of his field of vision. Reading through the response of the system, Argentum did not know whether he shouldugh or cry, muttering, ¡°This system should really get straight to the point sometimes.¡±

    Even though he said that, it still did not hide the happiness and tion he was feeling, seeing that the energy stored within the humans he killed was not going to waste.

    Pointing towards one of the four humans he killed, he soonmanded the system, ¡°Absorb all of the energy stored within that corpse.¡±

    Ding!

    Not long after Argentum was finishedmanding, the system¡¯s voice resounded in his mind, asking him, ¡°What kind of energy would you like to absorb from the corpse?¡±

    At first, Argentum was quite confused as to why the system would ask such a question like that, only for him to read between the lines and realize that the types of energy he could absorb from objects seemed to have no limits in possibilities. It did not take long for Argentum to articte the thought in his mind, soon muttering, ¡°All of the energy inside it that would allow me to undergo a Power Baptism.¡±

    ¡°Understood. All of the energy inside the corpse shall be converted into Power Baptism Energy for the user,¡± the system¡¯s voice soon resounded in his mind once again as a ball of blue light appeared on top of the corpse he pointed at a while ago.

    Whirr¡­

    As a faint whirring sound resounded throughout the surroundings, the ball of blue light gradually intensified in its brightness, its light eventually enveloping every part of the corpse before¡­

    Whoosh!

    In an instant, every inch of the corpse had been transformed into motes of white light, all of which made its way to the ball of blue light to be absorbed. A few secondster, this ball of blue light soon headed towards Argentum¡¯s body before being absorbed by him soon after as a notification sound resounded in his mind.

    Ding!

    ¡°The user has obtained half of the Power Baptism Energy needed to undergo a Power Baptism.¡± Apanying the notification sound was the system¡¯s voice informing him how much energy he had obtained from the corpse. Hearing that he had obtained half of the needed energy to undergo a Power Baptism, Argentum could not help but let out a light chuckle before going ahead and moving onto the other corpses in the area.

    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!

    Thanks to the system, it did not take long for the corpses to be converted into energy for a Power Baptism. The system had also informed him that he now had twice as much energy needed to undergo a Power Baptism, asking him as to whether he was going to keep the energy in its current form or transform it into a form that he could use.

    Wondering what the system meant by a form of energy that he could use, he responded to the system¡¯s question, telling it to convert the excess energy into thetter. A few secondster, he had obtained a notification that he had obtained a decent amount of experience points from the converted excess energy, increasing the number of unused experience points he had.

    ¡°I wonder if the original body has a use for this?¡± Argentum could not help but ask himself this question. Due to the difference in their existence levels, the amount of experience he had obtained from killing an Animate was actually 100 times more than what it was supposed to be. At the moment, he had around 100,000 unused experience points from killing those 7 Animates.

    After converting the excess energy into unused experience points, he then made his way back to the corpses of the first three humans he killed, utilizing [Tempest Awakening] to get there as fast as possible, lest any more energy dissipates in the process.

    While he was heading back to their location, Argentum could not help but realize what the system had truly done, asking the system soon after, ¡°System, is it possible for you to convert my unused experience points into energy that could be used for Power Baptisms?¡±

    Surprisingly, it did not take long for the system to respond to his question, its voice resounding in his mind as it said, ¡°Unfortunately, that isn¡¯t possible. Only energying from other objects can be converted into other types of energy.¡±

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡± Argentum pondered over the system¡¯s words after that, feeling that a thought in his mind was stuck but wanted to surface. Unfortunately, before that thought could surface, Argentum had already arrived in front of the three corpses, his train of thought hastily changing into that of looting all of their equipment and siphoning their energy.

    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!

    Due to his experience on the four corpses from before, it only took a few minutes for the three corpses to disappear off the face of Erudinia, the number of items in the system¡¯s inventory increasing while the amount of energy Argentum had for undergoing the first Power Baptism exceeding yet again. This time though, he did not tell the system to convert the excess energy into other forms of energy as he had a feeling that the excess energy he had was more than enough for him to undergo a second Power Baptism.

    Nheless, with all of the corpses now off the face of this world, Argentum could not help but let out an inward sigh of relief as he remembered that he could be tracked by other Animates thanks to the attacks he shot at them. But with the system absorbing their bodiespletely, Argentum did not have to worry about such a problem anymore, allowing him to head towards Verdant Breeze Town without the threat of Animates following him at the back of his head.

    ¡°Should I go ahead and do the Power Baptism now¡­or should I dy it for now and undergo it once I get stronger?¡± Argentum soon asked himself this question as he had no experience with Power Baptisms from his previous life. He had only heard of them from other yers, with all of them telling him that it was quite difficult to clear. Even Erea, the one who transformed into a Super Animate in ISE, told Aurus, the original body of Argentum, that undergoing a Power Baptism, even the first one, was incredibly hard unless one was prepared for all possible circumstances.

    With that in mind, two opinions had formed in his mind, one opinion that was the epitome of logicality and rationality, telling him that it was better for him to save the Power Baptism forter, and the other opinion that was the epitome of impulsiveness, telling him that he should at least experience the Power Baptism right now, allowing him to prepare for it in the future.

    Now¡­guess which opinion won in his mind.

    ¡­

    ¡­

    ¡­

    ¡°System¡­¡±

    ¡°Use the energy I¡¯ve amassed to undergo a Power Baptism.¡±

 Chapter 219: The First Baptism

    Chapter 219: The First Baptism

    ¡°System, use the energy that I¡¯ve amassed to undergo a Power Baptism,¡± Argentum said with a slightly ted tone as hemanded the system, the war of thoughts in his mind finally over. Surprisingly, a few secondster, he let out a sigh, somewhat regretting the impulsive decision he had just made in his mind.

    Of course, there was nothing wrong with experiencing a Power Baptism in order to prepare for it in the future. If he cleared this Power Baptism, either through sheer luck or through the massive grind he had done for his skills, then it would help him get to Verdant Breeze Town at a faster pace while having ten times the original strength. If he did not clear this Power Baptism, even failing to get through the early stages of it, then it would allow him to set a goal of strength in his mind, giving him great confidence and courage in attempting the Power Baptism the next time.

    The reason as to why he was somewhat regretting the decision he had just done was because his mind was heading towards a pessimistic direction, feeling that he had a low chance of sessfully clearing this first Power Baptism. It did not take long for Argentum to shake these pessimistic thoughts off from his mind and rece it with optimistic ones, thinking that he had a chance to actually seed in this Power Baptism. But even though he tried his best to shake the pessimistic thoughts away, they continued toe back and cling on, slightly intensifying as his tion to attempt the Power Baptism had turned into slight anxiety.

    In the end, he let out yet another sigh, saying to himself, ¡°Haah¡­fine. Let the pessimistic thoughts fester, it would allow me to be vignt while attempting it anyway.¡±

    Rumble¡­rumble¡­rumble¡­

    Around a minute after he hadmanded the system to start the Power Baptism, loud rumbling sounds resounded throughout the area, originating from somewhere way up above Argentum¡¯s head. Hearing these sounds, he decided to focus his sense of vision upwards, instantly feeling dread as he sensed the auraing from up above.

    This aura originated from a bunch of clouds that had just manifested. In other words, these clouds were brought about by Argentum¡¯smands, with all of them taking on a dark gray color. In terms of appearance, these clouds almost blended in with the night sky, if not for the fact that these clouds held what seemed to be lightning bolts of the color red, radiating an intense aura of destruction and tyranny.

    Ding!

    While Argentum was looking at the clouds filled with red lightning bolts, a notification sound resounded in his mind as the system¡¯s feminine-sounding voice came after it soon after. As he listened to the system¡¯s voice, multiple thoughts started to propagate in his mind, with some rted to the Power Baptism, and some rted to him.

    ¡°User, you are going to attempt your very first Power Baptism, so the system shall tell you what will happen in this Power Baptism,¡± the system¡¯s voice said in Argentum¡¯s mind before adding, ¡°If you direct your attention towards the sky, you would be able to see a mass of clouds with red lightning bolts. That is your Power Baptism. Well, to be more exact, the vessel of your Power Baptism.¡±

    ¡°Since this is the first Power Baptism, the user only has to withstand the power of three red lightning bolts striking on their body, with the power of each consecutive bolt gradually intensifying every time the user withstands it. Of course, that does not mean that the user should underestimate the power of a single red lightning bolt. Even an X-grade Inanimate with a lot of umtion would be vaporized under the power of the first red lightning bolt,¡± the system continued to exin the mechanics of the Power Baptism.

    ¡°In terms of rewards, for every red lightning the user withstands, the conversion factor of the user gradually increases, eventually reaching the multiplier of 10 once the user withstands all three red lightning bolts. Do note that all subsequent Power Baptisms after this first one would have more and more red lightning bolts to withstand. Not only that, but in the off chance that the number of red lightning bolts is too numerous, the user must withstand purple lightning bolts, which hold far greater power,¡± the system added.

    ¡°Of course, that¡¯s in the future for the user. For now, this system wishes the user good luck in clearing this first Power Baptism,¡± the system said after it was finished exining the mechanics of the Power Baptism, leaving Argentum with a feeling of greater dread and regret.

    ¡°Haah.¡± Argentum could not help but let out a sigh as a way to release some of the dread and regret he felt as he muttered, ¡°I should¡¯ve postponed the Power Baptism to a time tomorrow morning. Red lightning bolts in the middle of the night would surely attract the attention of the Animates.¡±

    Never did it ur in Argentum¡¯s mind that Power Baptisms would be based on lightning bolts. Then again, recalling what he knew about Power Baptisms from his past life, he realized that all of the yers he met and talked with him about Power Baptisms did not tell him what they looked like. They only told him about its difficulty.

    ¡°Should Iugh or should I cry in this situation?¡± Argentum asked himself as he looked at the clouds way up above his head before taking in a deep breath. After looking at it for a bit, he came to a conclusion in his mind, saying, ¡°If I seed and Animates catch wind of this, I¡¯ll run away from this area as fast as possible. If I don¡¯t seed and Animates catch wind of this, then I¡¯ll morph into another form before running away from this area as fast as possible.¡±

    ¡°No, wait. I should morph into another form as well if I seed,¡± Argentum soon added before letting out a sigh, setting his mental condition to its peak beforemanding the system, ¡°Let¡¯s start the Power Baptism.¡±

    Ding!

    ¡°The user¡¯s first Power Baptism has now begun,¡± the system¡¯s voice resounded in his mind not long after hismand, slightly surprising Argentum that he could control when the Power Baptism would start. To be honest, he was expecting the Power Baptism to start at a random time.

    Nevertheless, this did not distract him from what he had to do, which was to withstand the power of three red lightning bolts.

    Rumble¡­rumble¡­rumble¡­

    Signaling the start of the Power Baptism, loud rumbling sounds resonated from the clouds up above Argentum¡¯s head. In actuality, the loudness of the rumbling was even heard from many kilometers away, prompting some Animates in viges far away from where Argentum was to look up at the sky and ponder whether there was going to be a thunderstorm tonight.

    Listening to the rumbling of the clouds, Argentum went ahead and activated [Tempest Awakening], which was used to be [Mana Awakening] before being fused with one of the skills Aurus had obtained from the Tempest Cliff Inheritance. In an instant, the power circting within Argentum¡¯s body had been increased to around double or triple its original value, with the amount of MP Argentum had slowly trickling away in the process.

    He then went ahead and used a great amount of MP to activate [Wind Mana Barrier], conjuring a faint green barrier that enveloped every part of his body, which hovered a few centimeters off the surface of his energy skin. Just as he thought he was fully prepared for the onught of the first bolt, a certain skill¡¯s name surfaced in his mind, prompting him to activate it as he muttered, ¡°[Tempest Mana Domain].¡±

    Whoosh!

    [Tempest Mana Domain] used to be called [Great Mana Domain] before one of the skills Aurus had obtained from the Tempest Cliff Inheritance had fused with it. Unsurprisingly, after being fused with another skill, the boost it gave to Argentum in terms of MP capacity and regeneration rate had been significantly increased, with light green motes of lighting out of Argentum¡¯s body and entering it not long after every once in a while.

    Rumble¡­rumble¡­rumble¡­

    After he was finished activating all of those skills, the clouds coincidentally created another rumbling sound as the red lightning bolts that seemed to frolic about had congregated at the center of the clouds. Sensing a change in the atmosphere surrounding him after this happened, Argentum raised his head once more to look at the clouds, fear filling up his body once more. To him, it seemed that the aura of destruction and tyranny that he felt from the congregation of red bolts had be palpable.

    Bzzt¡­bzzt¡­

    A few secondster, sparks started toe out of the red ball of lightning as the power Argentum felt from the red ball had greatly increased. At this moment, Argentum had a great feeling that even with the preparations he had made before the bolt struck, it would just be akin to a sheet of paper. In other words, the defense Argentum had conjured seemed to be nothing in front of the power of the lightning bolt that was umting.

    And it was still gradually increasing.

    ¡°[Lesser Wind Magic: Wind Bolt].¡± Not wanting to ept that the defense he had conjured wascking, Argentum went ahead and activated his offensive magic as he thought about the saying, ¡®The best defense is a good offense.¡¯ Surprisingly, he was able to conjure around 5 wind bolts from the spell before the amalgamation of red lightning bolts in the sky had finally made its move, a dense red lightning bolt striking down not long after.

    Crash!

    For some reason, even though normal lightning bolts moved at the speed of light, this red lightning bolt moved at what seemed to be a few times beyond the speed of sound, barely allowing Argentum¡¯s sense of vision to visually track where the lightning bolt would strike¡­which was his body.

    ¡°Fire!¡± Argentum shouted without hesitation as he moved the 5 wind bolts he had conjured towards the raging red lightning bolt, with all of them exploding at the very instant they had collided with the tip of the lightning bolt. Surprisingly, these 5 wind bolts were able to lessen the power stored inside the red lightning bolt. Unfortunately, the amount that was lessened was so minuscule that it was better to say that it did not lessen in power at all.

    Other than that, these 5 wind bolts were able to dy the lightning bolt¡¯s striking by a bit, giving Argentum a really small frame of time for his mind to work on overdrive, eventually shouting, ¡°[Wind Weapon]!¡±

    Whoosh!

    In an instant, a broadsword appeared in each of Argentum¡¯s hands as he grasped on them tightly, deciding to use his body¡¯s strength to try and deflect the power of the lightning bolt. [Wind Weapon] was the only skill Aurus had obtained from the Tempest Cliff Inheritance that did not fuse with other skills since it was a skill that allowed Argentum to create weapons out of Wind energy particles.

    Swoosh!

    It did not take long for the lightning bolt to finally reach Argentum¡¯s body, colliding with the barrier that he had conjured¡­only for thetter to shatter in an instant. Noticing that his first line of defense had been broken, Argentum gripped on his broadswords a bit more tightly as he used these two broadswords as a shield, positioning them in a cross pattern over the top of his head.

    Crash!

    Unfortunately, probably because [Wind Weapon] wasn¡¯t one of the skills he greatly grinded, or because the amount of power behind the red lightning bolt was just too great, the two broadswords that Argentum tightly held broke in an instant, dissipating into thin air as the red lightning bolt had finally hit Argentum¡¯s body.

    ¡°Argh!¡± At the very instant Argentum¡¯s body had direct contact with the lightning bolt, he instantly felt immense pain circting all over his body, with the amount of pain he felt gradually intensifying with every microsecond that passed. On the outside, it felt like bullet ants, killer wasps, and other dangerous insects were attacking the surface of his body a million times with every passing second. As for the inside, it felt like he had eaten a thousand of the hottest chili peppers that existed in his previous life¡­every second.

    Although he wanted to endure the onught of the lightning bolt so badly, he was, of course, brought to the reality that the power he had was not enough to withstand such a trial just yet. Without hesitation, he shouted amidst the pain he felt, ¡°System, stop the Power Baptism! I give up!¡±

    Whoosh!

    Not long after Argentum shouted those words, the feeling of pain Argentum felt had dissipated like a fleeting wave as the red lightning bolt that seemed to connect him to the mass of clouds in the sky had dissipated as well. Not only that, but the mass of clouds that housed the dangerous red lightning bolts had also disappeared, making it seem like nothing had happened within a certain vicinity around Argentum.

    Of course, the sensation of pain and the feeling of powerlessness Argentum had felt was not an illusion at all, activating [Grand Breeze Rejuvenation] to heal the wounds that Argentum had obtained from the onught of the lightning bolt. Afterward, he let out a long sigh as he looked up at the sky, saying, ¡°I should¡¯ve really postponed this Power Baptism forter.¡±

    ¡°But now that I¡¯ve gotten a taste of it¡­¡± Argentum continued to mutter before letting out a chuckle. ¡°I really want to clear the first Power Baptism as fast as possible!¡±

    Without hesitation, he went ahead and activated his polymorph skill, transforming into a speck of ck sand as he opened up a map through the system. After confirming where he currently was, he adjusted his current position before moving towards a certain direction at the fastest speed he could muster while making sure to grind all of the skills he had.

    ¡°I should really grind all of the skills I have,¡± Argentum said to himself. ¡°I should also grind all of the skills I got from the humans a while ago. I feel like they¡¯re going to be helpful in Verdant Breeze Town.¡±

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡±

    ¡°Should I evolve to the next grade as well?¡±

 Chapter 220: Inferno Plains

    Chapter 220: Inferno ins

    ¡°Should I evolve to the next grade as well?¡± Argentum muttered to himself with a light chuckle as he continued to move through the path he made for himself for this journey. Not long after, he turned down this idea in his mind as he soon said to himself, ¡°Although it¡¯s quite tempting for me to evolve to the next grade right now so I could clear the first Power Baptism more easily, there¡¯s still tons of room for improvement for my skills.¡±

    ¡°Not only that, but I would also get a lot more skills once I reach Verdant Breeze Town,¡± Argentum continued before adding, ¡°In bing a Super Animate, one must have an incredibly sturdy foundation, right?¡±

    After saying those words, he let out a chuckle once more as he soon focused his attention back to the skills he currently had, making sure to grind all of them unlike before, where he only grinded a few of his skills to their limit due to the synergy they had.

    Ding!

    ¡°Hmm?¡± Hearing a notification sound resound in his mind, Argentum could not help but wonder as to why the system would notify him at such a mundane time, prompting him to open up the notification screen in his mind soon after. Reading through thetest notifications he had obtained, Argentum pondered over it for a while before saying, ¡°Well¡­that¡¯s natural. If I could reim the energy I lost from the attempt, then I could just attempt the Power Baptism at any time, using it as a way to gauge my strength.¡±

    ¡®The user has attempted a Power Baptism.¡¯

    ¡®The energy has been used to summon the Power Baptism.¡¯

    ¡®The user has unfortunately failed the Power Baptism.¡¯

    ¡®The energy used for the Power Baptism has dissipated.¡¯

    ¡°Now that I think about it, these notifications pretty much summed up what happened in my first attempt,¡± Argentum could not help but say as he let out a light chuckle, which gradually transformed into a long sigh not long after. Radiating an aura of determination and conviction, he then muttered to himself, ¡°I¡¯m seriously going to clear that Power Baptism as fast as possible, even if it¡¯s thest thing I¡¯ll do.¡±

    After saying those words, Argentum went back and focused his attention on grinding his skills once more while part of his mind was focused on him traversing through the terrain as fast as possible. Surprisingly, even though Argentum was currently disguised as a speck of ck sand, the speed at which he moved was equal to the speed he moved at in his original form, or perhaps, even greater than that of his original speed.

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    As he continued to move through the terrain, gradually getting closer and closer to the first stop in his mind, Argentum could not help but ponder about multiple things right now. His current strength, the amount of time it would take for him to at least reach the same level of strength as his original¡¯s body, the future of his original body, the future of himself, and so on, these were some of the topics that passed through his mind as a way to distract himself as he monotonously moved and grinded along the journey to Verdant Breeze Town.

    While thinking about these topics, a topic rted to the Power Baptism had popped up in his mind all of a sudden, fusing with one of the previous thoughts in his mind as a question was formed. With this question in mind, Argentum¡¯s curiosity was awakened quite a bit as he thought about it and had the notion that it made some sense in one way or another. Of course, from another perspective, it also did not make sense, which prompted him to go ahead and ask the system to clear the uncertainty from this question.

    ¡°System, is it possible for me to absorb the energy from the Power Baptism while I attempt it?¡± Argentum soon asked this question to the system as he thought to himself, ¡®If I absorb the energy from the Power Baptism while attempting it, I would be able to weaken the power of the red lightning bolts and I¡¯ll probably be able to clear it without a problem.¡¯

    Ding!

    It did not take long for the system to formte an answer to Argentum¡¯s question as he continued to move, a notification sound apanying the system¡¯s voice in his mind as it said, ¡°The user cannot absorb the energy from the Power Baptism amidst the attempt. The system considers the energy from the Power Baptism as a type of energy that is used by the system.¡±

    ¡°So¡­the energy from the Power Baptism is just like how you treat my unused experience points?¡± Argentum soon asked after processing the system¡¯s answer for a while, to which the system responded, ¡°That is indeed the case, user. Absorbing the energy from a Power Baptism can be done by some beings, but ultimately, absorbing its energy is a case of breaking the naturalws of the world.¡±

    Although he did not know what the system meant by the naturalws, he had an innate feeling that he should not force the absorption of energy unless he was willing to ept the consequences. After asking that question, Argentummanded the system to bring up a small map that did not obstruct his vision as he focused his attention yet again back on moving through the terrain and grinding up all of his skills.

    And with that done, quite some time has passed since then.

    ¡­

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    Over a day has passed since Argentum had attempted his first Power Baptism. At this moment, Argentum was moving at a speed far greater than ever before, as if Argentum was the embodiment of the great winds that circled the world.

    ¡°Who knew [Zephyr Burst] would be able to boost my movement speed by this much?!¡± Argentum said with great glee as he zoomed through the vast ins as a speck of ck sand, making some of the animals that he came across have confused expressions, wondering where the great gust of wind came from.

    [Zephyr Burst] is the first spell Argentum had obtained after evolving [Lesser Wind Magic] to its next grade, [Lower Tempest Magic+]. At first, he did not know why the name of the skill had changed quite a lot since skills like these in his memory would only change the first word in the skill¡¯s name once it evolved. But then, he realized that it might have something to do with how he had reached the Master level of mastery for [Lesser Wind Magic], allowing the magic he could learn in this current grade to transcend its previous limits.

    Of course, it took a great amount of grinding for Argentum to achieve such a feat, taking almost a day for [Lesser Wind Magic] to jump from the Expert level of mastery to the Master level of mastery. Then again, if Argentum solely focused on [Lesser Wind Magic], it would take him way less time to do so. But if one thought about it, that meant that Argentum¡¯s other skills had progressed at the same rate as well, increasing by two levels of mastery.

    Fortunately, that was indeed the case.

    Almost all of the active skills Argentum had in his arsenal were already at the Artisan level of mastery. Even [Wind Weapon], a skill he first used in the Power Baptism, had reached the Artisan level of mastery just recently as well. But what surprised Argentum the most was the fact that [Tempest Awakening] had reached the Master level of mastery as well, prompting him to evolve this skill to the next grade, taking on the name of [Zephyr Ascendance+].

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    As he continued to traverse the terrain at his greatly improved speeds, Argentum could not help but focus some of his attention towards the system as hemanded, ¡°System, please show me the skill list.¡±

    Ding!

    And just like that, a small holographic screen appeared in front of Argentum¡¯s field of vision as he looked at the small map that marked the path he was taking from time to time, allowing him to see how much his skills had improved. Even though Argentum knew very well by how much they had improved, he still wanted to see them listed one by one, making him chuckle as he said, ¡°As long as I keep up with this, I¡¯ll definitely surpass the original body¡¯s strength!¡±

    ________

    Active Skills:

    [Lower Tempest Magic+ Lv. MAX], [Millennium Changes Polymorph Lv. MAX (Artisan)], [Grand Breeze Rejuvenation Lv. MAX (Artisan)], [Wind Mana Barrier Lv. MAX (Artisan)], [Tempest Mana Domain Lv. MAX (Artisan)], [Zephyr Ascendance+ Lv. MAX], [Wind Weapon Lv. MAX (Artisan)]

    Passive Skills:

    [Blessing of the Supreme Zephyr Lv. 32], [Supreme Mana Affinity Lv. 15], [Condensed Mana Core Lv. 28], [Boundless Potential Lv. 38], [Spirit Resonance Lv. MAX]

    Active Animate Skills:

    [Basic Swordsmanship (Sealed) Lv. 1], [Basic Dagger Technique (Sealed) Lv. 1], [Basic Archery Technique (Sealed) Lv. 1], [Silent Step (Sealed) Lv. MAX (Adept)], [Enhanced Defense (Sealed) Lv. MAX (Basic)], [Enhanced Offense (Sealed) Lv. MAX (Basic)]

    Passive Animate Skills:

    [Keen Vision (Sealed) Lv. MAX (Expert)], [Enhanced Hearing (Sealed) Lv. MAX (Adept)], [Heightened Senses (Sealed) Lv. MAX (Basic)], [Enhanced Reflexes (Sealed) Lv. MAX (Basic)]

    ________

    While continuing to look at the skill list, Argentum could not help but look at the low levels of the skills he had obtained from the Animates, pondering for a bit before muttering to himself, ¡°I should spare some time on enhancing the skills I¡¯ve gotten from those humans. Although I don¡¯t know when I¡¯d use swordsmanship, dagger fighting, or archery, it¡¯s still a good thing to have a back-up fighting skill if I don¡¯t have enough MP.¡±

    ¡°Then again, their passive skills are far better than their active skills,¡± Argentum said not long after as he chuckled.

    Around a few hours or so after attempting the Power Baptism, Argentum went ahead and looked through the skills he had obtained from the humans, with him not finding great sess on the active skills he had obtained, except for those that boosted his stats. He also found out that their effects were significantly less when used by the humans, to which Argentum just chalked off to him being of a lower existence level. But when his attention went towards the passive Animate skills, it was akin to love at first sight when he realized how great the passive skills he had obtained were.

    Even though they just enhanced the sensitivity of his senses to a greater degree, for Argentum, who had no method of reconnaissance, these skills seemed to fit the job for now. And even after he had a way to investigate his surroundings, these passive skills would still give him an edge when fighting.

    Surprisingly, unlike the passive skills he got from the start, the passive skills he had obtained from the humans had masteries, just like the active skills. Although Argentum had no clue as to why that was the case, he just concluded that it was because that¡¯s how skills progressed at the Animate existence level, to which he could remember somewhat clearly thanks to his memories of the past.

    Just as he closed the skill list to focus on the terrain in front of him and continue to grind all of his skills to greater levels, a familiar voice resounded in his mind, to which Argentum easily remembered as the original body¡¯s voice.

    ¡°Hey, Argentum. I¡¯m about to evolve,¡± Aurus¡¯s voice resounded throughout Argentum¡¯s mind with the help of [Mental Communication]. Not long after, he added, ¡°While I¡¯m evolving, I¡¯ll be unconscious so you¡¯ll be on your own.¡±

    ¡°Got it,¡± Argentum soon responded to Aurus¡¯s words before pondering over something for a bit. After a few seconds, he then asked Aurus, ¡°How long will the evolution process take? I¡¯ve checked through our shared memories and know that it¡¯s pretty long. But you know, will it be longer than the time I¡¯m outside the Tempest Cliff?¡±

    ¡°This time around, that¡¯s definitely likely,¡± Aurus responded with a tone of slight uncertainty. He then continued, ¡°Anyways, if youe back from your trip earlier than expected, you¡¯ll find me at the Tower of Seclusion. Hmm¡­I guess you could just Herellia to let you inside the alliance.¡±

    ¡°Understood,¡± Argentum said in response to Aurus¡¯s words before letting out a light chuckle. ¡°I guess the gap in our strength will grow bigger after your evolution.¡±

    ¡°I guess so.¡± Aurus chuckled in response to Argentum¡¯s words. ¡°That wouldn¡¯t discourage you, right?¡±

    ¡°Not in the slightest,??? Argentum said with a gleeful tone. Aftering to terms with how strong his skills currently were, Argentum had a feeling that his strength after this trip would not lose out in any way to Aurus¡¯s. He soon added, ¡°Go and evolve. I¡¯m still making my way to Verdant Breeze Town.¡±

    ¡°Alright then,¡± Aurus said before taking in a deep breath. ¡°Stay safe.¡±

    ¡°Best wishes to your evolution, original body,¡± Argentum said in response to Aurus¡¯s words of concern.

    Not long after, the connection between the two had been cut, leaving Argentum alone to himself once more.

    Taking in a deep breath as he sorted out his emotions, Argentum soon let out a sigh as he shouted in a cheerful tone, ¡°Time to head to the Inferno ins as soon as possible!¡±

    Whoosh!

    Surprisingly, after he said that, even though the skills he used to increase his movement speed were the same, the speed at which he was moving had increased by a few notches, allowing him to eventually reach the Inferno ins by the time the sun was about to set.

    ¡­

    With the sky now colored a beautiful orange thanks to the sun setting, Argentum had finally arrived at the boundary that parted the wilderness from the Inferno ins, making him let out a satisfied sigh as he said, ¡°I¡¯m finally here. The first ce in my n to get stronger. Inferno ins.¡±

    Argentum vividly remembered that his original body, Aurus, had gone to around the same location as well to obtain OS and Genesis Points back then. Surprisingly, it was only now did Argentum realize that the Inferno Grounds was just a partition of the Inferno ins he was entering, made just for Inanimates to be in.

    Just like the Inferno Grounds, the Inferno ins was covered in ash, with its atmosphere akin to what seemed to be a smoldering pot. Argentum could not help but think that at the very instant he entered this ce, he would surely be roasted to death from the indirect heat.

    He then chuckled at this thought not long after as he said, ¡°If I don¡¯t even dare to enter the Inferno ins just from its atmosphere, then how would I be a Super Animate?¡±

    Taking in a deep breath, he reverted to his original form before shouting, ¡°Time to enter the Inferno ins!¡±

    Whoosh!

    ¡°Ah, shit!¡±

    ¡°Agh¡­that¡¯s hot! That¡¯s hot!¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t even have any pain receptors but why do I feel so much pain?!¡±

 Chapter 221: How to Survive the Heat

    Chapter 221: How to Survive the Heat

    At the very instant Argentum went ahead and took a step inside the Inferno ins, what greeted him first and foremost was the intense heat that circted around the area. In an instant, Argentum felt like he was being burned alive, with every subsequent move he made hastening this burning feeling.

    Concurrent to the burning feeling he felt was great pain. It was a type of pain that did not just stop at the outeryers of his body, but even the insides of his body were not spared from this body. If he were to gauge the level of pain he was feeling right now, then it was close to the peak, only being beaten by the pain he felt from being hit by a red lightning bolt. And that was just the first red lightning bolt he had to withstand.

    ¡°Ah, shit!¡± Argentum could not help but shout as he tried to endure the pain while traversing the region. Although he was feeling intense pain right now, there was something he had to do in this region that was more important than what he felt. That was because this thing that he had to do would be one of the deciding factors as to whether he would be able to be an even stronger Super Animate, or be a normal Super Animate.

    ¡°Agh! That¡¯s hot! That¡¯s hot!¡± Nevertheless, he still could not help but curse out every once in a while as he looked at the small map he had up on a part of his vision. Since he had now reached the first stop in his map, which also housed a few of the subtasks he had to fulfill to be a strong Super Animate, he zoomed into this specific region in his map, allowing him to get a better view of the shortest and most efficient path he had to take to achieve all of the goals he had in mind for this area.

    Ding!

    Around a couple of minutes after Argentum had entered the Inferno ins, just as it seemed that his mind was bing to the feeling of constant pain, a notification sound resounded in his mind, breaking his concentration as he let out a shout of pain. Of course, he hastily muffled this shout of his, knowing very well that he was now inside a part of the region that housed quite a decent amount of beings, which would definitely be alerted by his shout. He was still walking through the Inferno ins a while ago, so he could afford to shout while not alerting the beings that live in this area.

    ¡°Damn system notification,¡± Argentum muttered under his breath as he took in a deep breath, focusing his concentration once more to ignore the constant pain that he felt all over his body. After doing so, he then went ahead and opened up the notification screen in his mind, wondering what kind of notification he had received from the system. Was it rted to the Inferno ins? In one way, it was.

    ¡®You have received 1 HP damage¡¯ was thetest notification Argentum had received from the system, instantly putting him in a befuddled state. The first thought that came to his mind was whether he had offended some being in here by ident, eliciting a sneak attack from them. As for the second thought, he wondered whether he had stepped on some pointy rock by ident, and since he was putting all of his concentration on ignoring the pain he felt, he obtained a bit of damage.

    Eventually, he ced the matter in the back of his head, thinking that it was just something that happened out of the blue. Activating [Grand Breeze Rejuvenation] to restore his HP back to full capacity, he then continued to move through the Inferno ins¡¯ terrain at his high speeds.

    Ding!

    Surprisingly, after another couple of minutes, Argentum received yet another notification from the system. But this time, his concentration was not broken as he had now allocated a part of his attention towards the system at all times. Unfortunately for him, after reading through the notification he had received, his concentration was broken for a short while, bombarding him with pain once more.

    ¡°Another damage notification?¡± Argentum said to himself, now thinking that something fishy was going on. Although the amount of damage he had obtained was not a lot, it was the same amount of damage he had received from before, being 1 HP. He could say that it was just a fleeting urrence if it happened once, but now that it happened twice, Argentum could not help but think that something was going on.

    Then again, he had no idea where to start in finding the reason for the damage he was taking, so he went ahead and activated [Grand Breeze Rejuvenation] once more, making a mental note in his mind regarding these two notifications he had received. After that, he then went back to moving through the Inferno ins once more in search for the specific location he needed to go¡­only for him to obtain a notification a couple of minutester yet again.

    Ding!

    ¡°That¡¯s gotta be another damage notification,¡± Argentum said to himself, feeling that it was incredibly likely. At this point, he truly believed that there was a great reason as to why he was taking a small amount of damage every once a while. And fortunately, at the very instant he was reading through this notification he had received, he finally found out the reason why he was taking a bit of damage.

    ¡®Critical! You have received 3 HP damage from the Inferno ins¡¯ atmosphere!¡¯

    ¡°Heh¡­¡± This was the first sound toe out of Argentum¡¯s mouth after reading through the notification, only for him to read through the notification a few more times, eventually shouting, to which he softened soon after, ¡°So that¡¯s why!¡±

    ¡°Wait¡­that¡¯s the reason why?¡± Argentum soon asked himself this question, pondering over the reasons why he was taking damage from the atmosphere of the Inferno ins. It did not take long for him to get to an answer as he said, ¡°Ah. I forgot that I¡¯m a Wind Elemental.¡±

    Since Argentum shared memories with Aurus, it did not take long for Argentum to rummage through the memories of ISE, specifically how the elements interacted with one another.

    It is said that in ISE, there are over thirty elements at the very least, but most of these elements are variants of the four fundamental elements. Fire, water, earth, and wind. These four elements are said to be mostmon elements found in the world of ISE, but are also the strongest when honed to the peak.

    Of course, these four elements interacted with one another in a cyclical manner, with one element triumphing over the other by a certain degree. Fire is stronger than wind, wind is stronger than earth, earth is stronger than water, and water is stronger than fire. That¡¯s how it went. It¡¯s said that a person with a superior element would deal 50% more damage against those with an inferior element, while those with an inferior would deal 30% less damage against those with a superior element, but Argentum used to not know if that rule still applied in this world, since this world was not a game anymore.

    Now, Argentum knew that the same rules applied in this world, making him lightly chuckle as he thought about the n he had formted in his mind back in Tempest Cliff. It seemed that the n he had made would actually work out in the end.

    Stopping in his tracks, Argentum went ahead and sat down on the ground, saying the usual lines of ¡°Hot! Hot! Hot!¡± as he limated himself to the scorching heat of the ground. After activating [Grand Breeze Rejuvenation] to heal his HP up back to maximum, Argentum soon pondered over what he needed to do in this area.

    ¡°Well, of course, that¡¯s a given,¡± Argentum said not long after to himself as a thought surfaced in his mind. ¡°Although it would allow me to increase the mastery level of [Grand Breeze Rejuvenation] every so often, in the long term, it would be incredibly annoying.¡±

    ¡°I need to get [me Resistance],¡± Argentum soon muttered, making up his mind as he stood up not long after while radiating an aura of slight excitement. Just as he was about to start moving to get the [me Resistance] skill he wanted, he soon asked himself, ¡°Wait a second¡­how do you get [me Resistance] again?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m pretty sure the ce I¡¯m heading to would have such a skill on hand,¡± he started to think out loud as he pondered over the query. ¡°But the environment surrounding it is significantly worse than what I¡¯m currently in right now. I¡¯m pretty sure I¡¯ll die before I even get to that ce.¡±

    ¡°Are there any other ways to get [me Resistance], Argentum?¡± Argentum asked himself not long after, rummaging through the memories of ISE, surprisingly finding an answer after a few minutester, prompting him to replenish his health after he found the solution he was looking for.

    ¡°It seems I¡¯m going to have to go on a detour,¡± he muttered with a chuckle as he looked at the map he had and ced a marker on a certain part of the Inferno ins. This ce was not far away from the ce he needed to go to, plus it did have the thing he needed to obtain [me Resistance], so he did not hesitate to activate all of his movement boosting skills and spells and dashed towards the area in an instant.

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    As he dashed towards the area he marked on his map, he could not help but look back at the memory he found in his mind, muttering to himself, ¡°Although the original body only did it in areas where he had the advantage, I¡¯m pretty sure the same principle applies, right?¡±

    The solution that Argentum had obtained from rummaging through his shared memories was in fact, quite logical when thinking from a game perspective. He just needed to kill monsters that resided in that area, obtaining loot that was local to the area. In other words, he had to kill the native beings of Inferno ins to obtain the [me Resistance] skill.

    In the memory, Aurus had to kill at least a thousand of those monsters in order to get the skill, to which Argentum hoped that it would not happen to him since time is of the essence when improving strength as fast as possible. Alongside this, Argentum could not help but wonder if these native beings also dropped equipment, just like in ISE.

    Well, it was ultimately something he would have to find out himself.

    ¡­

    It took around four hours for Argentum to reach the area he marked on the map, the moon hanging in the sky now close to its peak. Surprisingly, even though it was somewhatte at night, the Inferno ins was still bright, which was all due to the mes andva that was prevalent across the area.

    Taking in a deep breath at the very instant he was finished running, Argentum soon took in a good look of the area, wherein he could see a vast area thanks to his [Keen Vision] skill. He then lightly smiled as he muttered, ¡°Fortunately, I can still rely on my memories for ces like these. The bane of all starting closebat yers of ISE, but is well received by all of the mages in ISE. Not only that, they¡¯re the weakest beings in the Inferno ins.¡±

    ¡°The [Fire Slime].¡±

    Boing! Boing! Boing!

    Akin to a huge piece of red gtin, these Fire Slimes moved about in a hopping manner, their bodies jiggling every time theynded. Not only that, if only looked closely, one would see a solid red orb inside these slimes. To everyone in ISE and Argentum, these red orbs were the things they needed to hit in order to kill them without a problem since the red orbs were their cores.

    ¡°Hmm¡­which one of these slimes would be my first target?¡± Argentum muttered to himself as he let out a low chuckle, taking into consideration the auras they radiated. Although all of these slimes were at the lowest rank of the Animate existence level possible, there were still some slimes that exuded an aura a few times more powerful than their other slime brethren.

    Healing his HP with [Grand Breeze Rejuvenation], Argentum eventually found a suitable first target, which was a slime that was not that far away from where he currently was. Not only that, but this certain slime was also a decent distance away from the other slimes, allowing him to focus on attacking this slime without alerting the other slimes in the process.

    ¡°You know what? Now that I think about it, this is also a way to test how strong I¡¯ve be after the grind,¡± Argentum said to himself with a chuckle as he activated [Zephyr Ascendance+], increasing his stats by a few times. Not long after that, Argentum then activated [Lower Tempest Magic+], conjuring what seemed to be a de made out of condensed Wind energy particles.

    After that, he went ahead and made sure that the de would hit the red orb inside the slime, calcting its trajectory in his mind before going ahead and firing it.

    ¡°[Lower Tempest Magic: Zephyr Cleave]!¡±

    Whoosh!

    At the very instant he shot the wind de towards the slime, it was only then did it ur to Argentum that the power behind the de might not be enough due to the elemental disadvantage. Fortunately, just as he focused his sense of vision towards the de nearing the core of the slime, expecting that the de would only be able to critically injure the slime rather than kill it¡­

    Swish!

    Akin to slicing through butter, the wind de split the red orb inside the slime in two without a problem. Not only that, but the gtinous body of the slime had been split into two halves as well, eliciting an expression of disbelief from Argentum as a notification sound resounded in his mind.

    ¡°Eh¡­?¡±

    Ding!

    ¡®Congrattions! You have obtained the passive skill [Incredibly Inferior me Resistance]!¡¯

    ¡°¡­¡±

    ¡°¡­¡±

    ¡°¡­Eh?¡±

 Chapter 222: To Live is To Grind

    Chapter 222: To Live is To Grind

    Ding!

    ¡®Congrattions! You have obtained the passive skill [Incredibly Inferior me Resistance]!¡¯

    ¡°Eh?¡± Listening to the system¡¯s voice resound in his mind, which was apanied by a notification sound, Argentum was left at a loss for words as an aura of disbelief covered his body. It took around half a minute for Argentum toe to his senses as he read through the notification he had just received one more time, making sure that the system was not fooling him.

    ¡°To think that I got the skill on the first try¡­¡± Argentum could not help but mutter in disbelief after confirming that he had truly obtained the skill, opening up the skill¡¯s description not long after as he excitedly skimmed through its contents.

    ¡°Just as I remembered it. 100% increased resistance against the Fire element.¡± Argentum let out a light chuckle as he closed the screen filled with the description of the skill not long after. Just as he was about to head towards the original location he had in mind, a thought filled with doubt soon surfaced in his head, prompting him to ask himself, ¡°Wait a second¡­did I really get the skill I needed?¡±

    This thought filled with doubt, which now had a hint of anxiety added in it, urged Argentum to open up the description of the skill he had just obtained once more, making sure to read through every word that filled the screen that appeared in front of his field of vision. After glossing over the words a few times and finding no fault in it, Argentum let out a sigh before saying, ¡°Oh boy. Was it the word ¡®Incredibly¡¯ that made me think that I got the skill I needed on the first try?¡±

    Ding!

    ________

    [Incredibly Inferior me Resistance] (Lv. MAX)

    Grade: Unevolvable

    A skill that increases the user¡¯s resistance to the Fire element. Unfortunately, the increase in resistance is so low that the user would be better off saying that it did not have increased resistance towards the Fire element at all.

    > Increases the user¡¯s resistance to the Fire element by 1%

    Note: Fuse this skill with 4 more copies of the same skill and watch it upgrade to a higher level.

    ________

    ¡°I actually mistook the percent sign for two zeroes,¡± Argentum said to himself not long after before adding, ¡°Plus it can¡¯t be leveled up or evolved¡­¡±

    ¡°And that note at the end¡­¡± Argentum continued as his sense of vision focused on thatst string of words.

    Mulling over the note at the end for a bit, it did not take long for Argentum to somewhat realize what he needed to do to obtain the skill he needed. Taking in a deep breath, Argentum felt that he was going to do something boring after realizing the strength of the skill he had obtained. In his mind, it seemed that that process would be natural, but if possible, he did not want to do more of it.

    Thinking optimistic thoughts, Argentum let out a slightly forced chuckle before asking himself, ¡°Surely I wouldn¡¯t need to kill a lot of Fire Slimes just so I could have the proper [me Resistance] skill, right?¡±

    Even though he asked himself this question, he had a feeling that it would definitely be the case, needing him to kill a lot of Fire Slimes just so he could obtain what he needed. Scratching his head, he continued to hope that he did not need to kill a lot of Fire Slimes. He would only ept it once he obtained the same skill from another Fire Slime.

    And so, he went ahead and used his sense of vision to locate a stray Fire Slime, eventually finding one about a few secondster. Now knowing that his attack would be able to kill a Fire Slime with one hit, Argentum let out a sigh as he aimed the wind de he had conjured towards the core of this stray Fire Slime, muttering to himself, ¡°Please don¡¯t make me grind even more¡­please don¡¯t make me grind even more¡­¡±

    ¡°[Lower Tempest Magic: Zephyr Cleave]!¡±

    Whoosh! Swish!

    Just like the first Fire Slime he killed, the core of the second Fire Slime had been split into two halves, with the same happening to its gtinous body as a notification sound resounded in his mind. Hearing this notification sound, Argentum went ahead and hastily opened the notification, hoping that his worst nightmare would note to fruition.

    Ding!

    ¡®Congrattions! You have obtained the passive skill [Incredibly Inferior me Resistance]!¡¯

    ¡®You only need 3 more copies of [Incredibly Inferior me Resistance] to upgrade it to the next tier!¡¯

    At this moment, Argentum had a feeling that it was inevitable for him to kill a lot of Fire Slimes, but he still tried to deny the fact that he had to do it, letting out an awkward chuckle as he muttered, ¡°I guess I¡¯m lucky to get it twice, huh?¡±

    ¡°Surely I wouldn¡¯t get the same skill after killing a Fire Slime three times in a row, right?¡± Argentum asked himself in a tone of slight uncertainty, using his sense of vision to find another stray Fire Slime. After finding another one, he then went ahead and conjured another wind de, firing it towards the Fire Slime without hesitation as the Fire Slime was soon split into two halves.

    Ding!

    Hearing the notification sound in his mind, Argentum could not help but radiate an aura of slight fear and expectation, hoping that he did not get the same skill three times in a row. If he got the same skill one more time, then Argentum would have no choice but to believe that this was the only way for him to enhance the [me Resistance] skill he currently had. Unfortunately for him, his worst nightmare hade to fruition.

    ¡®Congrattions! You have obtained the passive skill [Incredibly Inferior me Resistance]!¡¯

    ¡®You only need 2 more copies of [Incredibly Inferior me Resistance] to upgrade it to the next tier!¡¯

    ¡°¡­¡± Argentum was left at a loss for words after seeing the same notification the third time, letting out a long and disappointed sigh after a few seconds. Not long after that, he then let out another sigh as he activated [Grand Breeze Rejuvenation], muttering to himself, ¡°I guess I have no choice, huh. If only there was a third way to obtain [me Resistance] in the fastest way possible. Unfortunately, there¡¯s none.¡±

    ¡°Sometimes, with tasks like these, I wonder whether I¡¯m in a real world or if I¡¯m just inside ISE,¡± he soon continued to voice out hisints, eventually calming down after he let all of it out.

    ¡°How many Fire Slimes do I have to kill?¡± Argentum asked himself this question around half a minuteter before activating all of his movement boosting spells and skills to head towards the Fire Slimes. Since he needed to kill a lot of Fire Slimes to improve his [me Resistance] skill, then he was going to do in the fastest way possible.

    Fighting against them head-on¡­or at least, at a closer distance.

    ¡°[Zephyr Cleave]!¡±

    ¡°[Zephyr Cleave]!¡±

    At the very instant he was in the area where most of the Fire Slimes were located, Argentum unhesitatingly went ahead and fired out two wind des towards two unaware Fire Slimes, hastily ending their lives as notification sounds resounded in his mind. He then went ahead and opened up thetest notifications he had received, inwardly letting out a long sigh as he muttered to himself in slight annoyance, ¡°For every upgrade, the number of Fire Slimes I have to kill increases¡­huh.¡±

    Ding!

    ¡®Congrattions! You have obtained the passive skill [Incredibly Inferior me Resistance]!¡¯

    ¡®Congrattions! Your 5 copies of [Incredibly Inferior me Resistance] have fused as one and formed [Superbly Inferior me Resistance]!¡¯

    ¡®You only need 3 more copies of [Superbly Inferior me Resistance] to upgrade it to the next tier!¡¯

    After reading through it, he then went ahead and continued cleaving through Fire Slimes left and right, eventually optimizing his methods of killing the Fire Slimes, allowing him to kill more slimes with every move he made. In his mind, he could not help but think of thest notification he had received from the system, the one that mentioned how many copies of the same skill he needed to upgrade it to the next tier.

    Argentum was quite familiar with such a mechanic back in ISE, transforming quantity into quality. Some of the equipment Aurus used to own in their shared memories had undergone a simr strengthening process as well, needing him to obtain multiple copies of the same inferior equipment in order to create a single piece of superior equipment.

    As this memory surfaced in his mind, Argentum could not help but mutter to himself, ¡°Now that I think about it, I might need to kill around the same amount of beings Aurus needed to kill in order to obtain skills from them. I wonder why this is the case in this world, transforming quantity into quality instead of relying on chance to obtain the skill one needed¡­ah. I see.¡±

    It soon clicked in Argentum¡¯s mind that this method of obtaining skills seemed to serve a greater purpose than he thought, making beings think that as long as they put in enough effort, their skills would be honed to a greater level. After about five minutes or so, Argentum had killed enough slimes for [Superbly Inferior me Resistance] to upgrade to [Greatly Inferior me Resistance], with the former having a 3% increase while thetter had a 5% increase in resistance.

    Since Argentum did not need to do anything different when ites to killing the Fire Slimes, he went ahead and let his body move on his own as he pondered over other things in the meantime. The first thought that popped up in his mind while pondering was surprisingly rted to Aurus and the Inferno ins, well¡­to be more exact, the Inferno Grounds.

    With Argentum and Aurus sharing memories, that meant that Argentum also had ess to Aurus¡¯s memories in this current life of his, which allowed him to have some sort of reference on what he was going to do in this world. While rummaging through these somewhat recent memories, the memory of Aurus passing through the Inferno Grounds without being damaged by the atmosphere soon surfaced, which prompted him to wonder as to why that was the case.

    The first answer that appeared in his mind was that he had Charisa with him, an Ally that was inclined towards the Fire element, which might have given Aurus the ability to negate the damage of the Fire element on his body. Just as he was satisfied with that answer, he then remembered that Charisa was not summoned yet by Aurus at that time, with Fenrir being the only Ally Aurus had.

    He then pondered over it a bit more, thinking that Aurus¡¯s ability to ignore the damage from the Fire element might havee from the blessing he had obtained from Kurohana, the Greater Goddess of Reincarnation. Surprisingly, Argentum and Aurus also shared those memories, allowing Argentum to know of this matter. But then, after finding out the blessing Aurus had received had no rtion to the elements at all, Argentum discarded the idea, proceeding to ponder even more over the question.

    Unfortunately, even after about twenty minutes or so of pondering, Argentum was not able to formte a usible answer in his mind, making a mental note in his mind that he would ask Aurus about this matter once he was finished evolving. Coincidentally, around this time, Argentum had amassed enough copies of the skills yet again to upgrade [Greatly Inferior me Resistance] to [Slightly Inferior me Resistance], increasing Argentum¡¯s resistance to mes by 10 percent.

    After checking the description of the newly upgraded [me Resistance] skill, he soon went back to pondering about stuff, this time concerning the [me Resistance] skill he was currently grinding.

    He thought that since there was a [me Resistance] skill, then there would be resistance skills for the other elements as well. With that in mind, he then wondered if he could be invulnerable to every element in existence in the world of Erudinia, eventually concluding that it was theoretically possible if he had the time to grind all of them to a level wherein he would not just resist the damage of the elements anymore, but nullify their effects altogether.

    ¡®After I¡¯m done with what I need to do here in Inferno ins, I think I¡¯ll go grab [Water Resistance] in Azure Shores alongside the things I need to do there,¡¯ Argentum thought to himself, only for a thought to pop up in his mind all of a sudden, making him think of a what-if situation wherein he needed to do the same thing he was doing right now in order to obtain the proper [Water Resistance] skill.

    With that in mind, Argentum could not help but think that it was possible, which an optimistic thought negated not long after, making him let out a sigh of relief as he thought, ¡®Ah, right. Unlike the Fire element, there¡¯s no elemental disadvantage against the Water element. I think I¡¯ll just grab [Water Resistance] through the ce I have in mind once I reach the Azure Shores.¡¯

    After that, he then went ahead and continued to ponder over other things to pass the time as his body was ying Fire Slimes on autopilot. Around this time, it dawned on him that he would have a lot of unused experience points after he finishes grinding for the proper [me Resistance] skill. Even though these Fire Slimes were the weakest Animates in the Inferno ins, thus only giving a scant amount of experience points, due to the difference in existence level, what would be a scant amount for Animates would be a lot to him.

    Taking an estimate as to how much unused experience points he would have by the end of this impromptu grinding session, Argentum then went back to ponder over things, eventuallying to the topic of loneliness. Although he was distracting himself from how lonely he felt by busying himself with tasks such as grinding and pondering over other things, in actuality, he was quite lonely, just like how Aurus was at the start of his journey after looking through his memories.

    ¡°All for the sake of bing a Super Animate¡± was what Argentum would say to himself whenever he was close to faltering, using it as a way to motivate himself to achieve his goals. To be honest, the goal he had in mind was quite blurry now. He wondered if his current goal was to be a strong Super Animate, or to make Aurus look at him in a better light. Either way, both of those goals spurred on him in this journey of his, wanting to see Aurus¡¯s reaction by the time he woke up.

    Eventually, while pondering, an hour had soon passed, with the moon now at the peak of the sky. At this moment, Argentum finally had enough copies of the same skill to upgrade [Slightly Inferior me Resistance] to [Inferior me Resistance], increasing Argentum¡¯s resistance to the Fire element from 10% to 15 percent.

    It was also around this time that Argentum muttered to himself in a slightly mncholic tone, ¡°Sure, doing this increases the mastery level for [Lower Tempest Magic+] and [Zephyr Ascendance+] but¡­¡±

    ¡°When will this grind end?¡±

 Chapter 223: Flame Spirit Inheritance

    Chapter 223: me Spirit Inheritance

    Ding!

    Hearing the notification sound resound in his mind after what seemed to be a very long time, Argentum wondered as to whether this notification would be thest notification he would get that was rted to what he was doing all this time. Commanding the system to open up the notification screen in his mind, he soon skimmed through thetest notifications he had received, letting out a sigh of relief as he muttered, ¡°Ah, finally. The grind is now over.¡±

    ¡®Congrattions! You have obtained the passive skill [Incredibly Inferior me Resistance]!¡¯

    ¡®The amount of copies you have of [Incredibly Inferior me Resistance] is now sufficient to fuse as one and form into [Lower me Resistance]!¡¯

    ¡®Congrattions! Your 2 copies of [Lower me Resistance] have fused as one and transformed into [me Resistance]!¡¯

    ¡®[me Resistance] has now reached its maximum level of upgrades.¡¯

    After closing the notification screen, Argentum then went ahead and opened up the description for the newly upgraded [me Resistance] skill, making sure that it was a bona fide skill meant for resisting the Fire element, not like the [Incredibly Inferior me Resistance] skill that gave an infinitesimally small boost to his resistance.

    Ding!

    Skimming through the words on the screen that had just appeared in front of his field of vision, Argentum let out another sigh of relief as he lightly chuckled, saying, ¡°I guess there are some upsides to grinding as well.¡±

    ________

    [me Resistance] (Lv. 1/10)

    Grade: Mortal (C)

    A skill that increases the user¡¯s resistance to the Fire element. This is the mostmon variant of the skill, which could be upgraded and evolved in order to increase the user¡¯s resistance to the Fire element even further. Due to the effort exerted by the user to obtain this skill, a small bonus has been added to the skill.

    > Increases the user¡¯s resistance to the Fire element by 50%

    > Reduces damage taken from Fire-based attacks by 10%

    ________

    In total, it took Argentum around eight hours to upgrade [Incredibly Inferior me Resistance] to the [me Resistance] he was currently looking through, with thetter upgrades taking up most of the eight hours that he spent killing Fire Slimes. Recalling the great number of Fire Slimes that he had killed during those eight hours, Argentum could not help but shudder a little bit as he muttered, ¡°I really don¡¯t want to do something like this ever again¡­¡±

    ¡°Then again, that¡¯s what I do for the skills I already have so¡­¡± It did not take long for Argentum¡¯s emotions toe back to normal as he remembered that grinding made up a great portion of his power. ¡°Anyways, is this skill enough to negate the damage I obtain from the Inferno ins¡¯ atmosphere?¡±

    Surprisingly, even though Argentum¡¯s resistance to the Fire element increased whenever his [me Resistance] skill upgraded to a higher tier, he still obtained the same amount of damage at the same interval, prompting him to heal himself every once in a while. Although this allowed him to evolve the skill to the next grade since it had already reached the Master level of mastery, he found it somewhat peculiar that he still obtained damage from the environment even when his [me Resistance] skill was called [Lower me Resistance], the previous form of the skill he currently had.

    With that in mind, he then went ahead and waited for the notification from the system toe, which would inform him that he had taken damage from the environment. After a couple of minutes had passed, Argentum had not received any notification from the system, bringing his hopes up that this skill was what he needed to barely negate the damage from the environment, but he decided to wait a bit more, thinking that the interval between the notifications had increased due to him obtaining better resistance against the Fire element.

    Eventually, thirty minutes had passed since Argentum pondered as to whether he would still take damage from the environment. Unsurprisingly, after all that time, Argentum had not obtained any notification from the system regarding damage from the environment whatsoever, making him let out an inward sigh of relief as he did not need to heal himself up every once in a while anymore.

    Ding!

    ¡°Oh no¡­¡± Just as he was about to go ahead move towards the original location he had in mind for this trip to the Inferno ins, a notification sound resounded from the system, making Argentum automatically think that he still obtained damage from the environment, albeit the gap between them now was incredibly long.

    Hoping that that was not the case, Argentum went ahead andmanded the system to open up the notification screen in front of his field of vision, radiating an aura of slight nervousness as he slowly read thetest notification he received. Surprisingly, as he read through thetest notification, his nervousness gradually transformed into relief, which then soon transformed into tion.

    ??[me Resistance] has reached the MAX level.¡¯

    ¡®[me Resistance] has met the necessary requirements and is ready to evolve.¡¯

    ¡°I guess I can rest assured that I won¡¯t obtain any damage from the environment then,¡± Argentum said as he let out a light chuckle beforemanding the system to evolve [me Resistance] to the next level, changing its name to [Intermediate me Resistance].

    ¡°Wait what?¡± At the very instant Argentum had evolved the [me Resistance] skill, his feeling towards the surroundings had significantly changed. Before, he would feel a lot of pain thanks to the environment, which he would not feel since he actively concentrated on ignoring it. But now, he felt like he was in an area that was familiar to him, as if the surroundings did not hamper him in any way. Wondering if this was an illusion, Argentum went ahead and stopped thinking of ignoring the pain from the surroundings, eventually radiating an aura of tion as he found out that the pain he felt was now at the level of incredibly tolerable.

    Although he was not expecting [me Resistance] to solve his problem of feeling pain from the surroundings, it was still a weed addition to him as his mood became better. After that, he then went ahead and moved the map, that was on the rightmost part of his field of vision, towards the center of his vision. He then removed the marker he had set for the area he was currently in before setting a marker towards the area he originally intended to go to.

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    Without hesitation, Argentum turned his body to face the direction where he needed to move towards and dashed at his maximum speed.

    Since the area he had chosen to kill Fire Slimes was not far away from the ce he nned to head towards in this trip to the Inferno ins, it only took around an hour or so for him to arrive at his destination, with the sun finally out of the horizon, shining its rays down thend as the sky had now turned a light blue.

    ¡°Is this the ce?¡± Argentum asked himself as he looked at the scenery in front of him, which had a reddish tint to it, something that was not prevalent in the terrain he moved through a while ago. He then went ahead and used [Keen Vision] to its fullest extent, eventually making out a silhouette that seemed to be simr to the silhouette that was in his memories.

    ¡°Hmm¡­that silhouette looks familiar from the one in my memories, but I¡¯m not so sure¡­¡± Argentum muttered to himself as he radiated an aura of slight disbelief, as if he felt like the silhouette he was seeing was not the same in his memories. A few secondster, he changed his perspective of thinking, taking on an optimistic perspective as he said, ¡°Then again, this is a living world based on ISE. The appearance might change but its purpose would surely not change.¡±

    ¡°I just gotta hope that it hasn¡¯t been fully cleared by anyone yet if that were to be the case,¡± Argentum soon added as he slowly entered the area with the reddish tint, instantly feeling that it was kind of hard to breathe on his very first step thanks to the dryness of the air. Even though that was the case, Argentum did not feel any pain just like before, though he still felt a bit of heat.

    He then continued to move through the area, his sense of vision locked onto the vague silhouette he saw a while ago. While doing so, he could not help but say to himself in slight disbelief, ¡°Although this area is at least ten times hotter than the area outside, I can¡¯t believe that I¡¯m only feeling a bit of heat here. Is it because my resistance to the Fire element has improved along the way?¡±

    Since [me Resistance] was a skill that increased Argentum¡¯s resistance to the Fire element, it was puremon sense for its experience to increase if Argentum was exposed to areas filled with the Fire element. Combine it with his insanely highprehension speed thanks to Aurus ingesting Comprehension Leaves, from the B-grade Mortal level [Intermediate me Resistance] Argentum had a while ago, it was now the S-grade Mortal level [Greater me Resistance]. Not only that, but it seemed that it would evolve to the next level after quite some time as well.

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    Due to this area only being a small fraction of therge Inferno ins, it only took Argentum around twenty minutes or so to arrive in front of the silhouette he saw from afar, letting out a sigh of relief after getting a closer look of it.

    ¡°I guess that feeling from a while ago was just a result of pessimism and anxiety,¡± Argentum lightly chuckled as he said this to himself. He soon added, ¡°Then again, I¡¯m quite surprised that its appearance hasn¡¯t changed that much from the one in ISE.¡±

    In front of him was an abandoned building that spanned three floors, being around 15 meters in height. Only the first floor of this abandoned building was intact, with the second floor filled to the brim with the rubble that seemed to be the broken remnants of the third floor. Every inch of this building was of a ck hue. If one took a whiff of the air surrounding it, one would smell something that was burning, giving one the idea that this building might be the only building that had survived a great fire.

    Even though that was the case, the aura it radiated was a stark contrast to its appearance, exuding an aura that it was storing something special in it. Not only that, but it also gave off the aura that if it was attacked in some shape or form, then the one that attacked would be sted into smithereens with a power unfathomable to even Argentum, who had memories of Aurus showcasing his power at the Divinity level.

    ¡°Now where is that entrance?¡± Argentum soon asked himself as he got closer to the abandoned building, utilizing his [Keen Vision] to inspect every nook and cranny of the building¡¯s first floor as he entered it. Fortunately, it did not take long for him to find the ¡®entrance¡¯ that he was looking for, which was a red orb covered in dust tucked under the stairs that led to the building¡¯s second floor.

    Using his affinity with the Wind element to create a gust of wind to blow the dust off of the red orb, Argentum soon muttered, ¡°If Aurus¡¯s memories are correct, then this orb is the entrance to the me Spirit Inheritance.¡±

    The me Spirit Inheritance. Just like the name implied, every reward inside the inheritance was rted to the Fire element. Not only that, but every challenge inside the inheritance also had something to do with the Fire element. There were some rumors back then that the me Spirit Inheritance housed a method that allowed one to summon a me Spirit that could be nurtured, which was one of the reasons why Argentum entered the Inferno ins.

    Of course, Argentum¡¯s goal in the Inferno ins was to amass a great amount of Fire-based skills, with [me Affinity] being the most important skill he had to obtain from the inheritance.

    ¡°How do I enter this again?¡± Argentum muttered to himself in a questioning tone, looking at the red orb from every angle possible. After asking himself this question, he touched the red orb, eliciting no response from the orb soon after. He then went ahead and infused some of his MP into the orb, but that also ended up in failure, eliciting no response from it.

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡± As Argentum pondered over the method to enter the inheritance, he went ahead and rummaged through Aurus¡¯s memories, wondering if one of his memories held the key to entering the inheritance. Fortunately, one of his memories did hold it, making Argentum radiate an aura of slight confusion as he muttered, ¡°What did they say?¡±

    In Aurus¡¯s memory of the me Spirit Inheritance, there were three people in it, with Aurus being one of them. The three of them then stood in front of the red orb and talked about a few things in a whispering voice. After that, the three of them went ahead and shouted a single word as they released all of their MP, resulting in their disappearance not long after.

    Argentum had no problem with releasing all of his MP since he just needed to use all of his skills that needed MP. The main problem for him was the word that he needed to shout as he released all of his MP. In the memory, the word said by them seemed to have been muddled due to how long it has been since the memory was made.

    Thankfully, the conversation between the three of them was not that muddled, allowing Argentum to get a headstart on what word he needed to shout.

    ¡°ording to the memory, I just need to shout a word rted to the red orb and the Fire element,¡± Argentum muttered to himself as he pondered over the word he had to say. A few secondster, Argentum then went ahead and released all of his MP through his skills before shouting, ¡°Fireball!¡±

    Whoosh!

    Unfortunately, there was no response from the red orb at all, making Argentum ponder whether he was heading the right track. Thinking of another word that was rted to the red orb and the Fire element, a spark of inspiration shed in Argentum¡¯s mind, finally dawning on him on what seemed to be the mostmon word that came to mind when a red orb and the Fire element is involved.

    Taking in a deep breath, he muttered to himself, ¡°I hope this word is the one.¡±

    After waiting for his MP to fill up back to maximum capacity, Argentum went ahead and released all of his MP through his skills once more before shouting out a single word once more.

    ¡°Sun!¡±

    Whoosh!

    And just like that, Argentum had disappeared from the insides of the abandoned building, appearing somewhere unfamiliar to him sometimeter.

 Chapter 224: Intricacies of the War

    Chapter 224: Intricacies of the War

    XXXX Continent, Seraph Kingdom, Arcana Tower

    After being intimidated greatly by Cerius¡¯s position in the tower, a wall inside Veriano¡¯s mind, which told him to not tell the truth to Dane and Cerius, had been broken. Veriano and Dane then went ahead and made a deal in which Dane would not demote Veriano¡¯s position in the tower, to which Dane agreed with a sinister grin.

    Hearing that Dane promised to not demote him, Veriano let out a sigh of relief as he recollected all of his thoughts regarding what Dane wanted to know. Not only that, he decided to talk about other stuff that would benefit Dane, in the off chance that the information given by him was insufficient for the deal.

    Taking in a deep breath as he sat cross-legged, Veriano went ahead and looked up at Dane once more and said in a slightly glum tone, ¡°I assume you already know this, but I¡¯m trying to poach Erea Magimillia as a part of the team of the prince I¡¯m under.¡±

    ¡°Of course, your bodynguage and your expressions gave it all away,¡± Dane said in response to Veriano¡¯s words, letting out a chuckle not long after. His expression soon changed to that of seriousness as he radiated a bit of killing intent towards Veriano, saying, ¡°You do know that¡¯s not the information I want to know, right?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m just getting to it.¡± Seemingly unaffected by Dane¡¯s pressure, Veriano responded to his words. In actuality, Veriano was inwardly shaking in fear, wondering how someone well-versed in teaching could have such intense killing intent. Scratching his head, he then said, ¡°The team I¡¯m under is the Tenth Prince.¡±

    ¡°The Tenth Prince?¡± Dane could not help but tilt his head in slight confusion, wondering why the Tenth Prince was trying to get involved in the war for the throne. ¡°Didn¡¯t he tell everyone that he¡¯s not going to join in the war for the throne?¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s what I thought as well,¡± Veriano replied to his question before adding, ¡°But one day, he announced all of a sudden that he was going to join in the war for the throne.¡±

    ¡°Is there any reason as to why he¡¯s doing it?¡± Dane soon asked as he pondered over the Tenth Prince¡¯s motives, to which Veriano replied, ¡°Fortunately, I¡¯m the closest to the Tenth Prince, which means I know more than the others.¡±

    ¡°He told me that he¡¯s doing it for his half-brother, the Third Prince,¡± he soon added before continuing, ¡°I don¡¯t know what happened between the two, but from the looks of it, the Third Prince and the Tenth Prince have struck a deal in the war for the throne.¡±

    ¡°The Third Prince¡­¡± Dane muttered as he recalled all of his memories regarding the Third Prince. Trying to remember it correctly, he remembered that the Third Prince was the smartest prince out of the 13 princes of the Seraph Kingdom, with his strength not being far from the peak as well. Naturally, that meant that he was the most likely candidate to be the Crown Prince in the war for the throne since a king needed to have both brains and brawn to rule a kingdom.

    ¡®But why is he allying with the Tenth Prince?¡¯ This was the thing Dane did not get. Was he not assured of his sess in the war for the throne? Just as he was about to mull on it even further, a thought rted to what he was thinking about shed in his mind, prompting him to ask Veriano, ¡°Has the Third Prince made a deal with the other princes as well?¡±

    ¡°Hm?¡± Veriano raised his eyebrows in response before going ahead and pondering over the answer. A few secondster, he then said, ¡°As far as I know, I¡¯ve heard that the Third Prince has allied with the Eleventh and Seventh Prince as well. He also told me that he has ns of working with the Fourth Prince.¡±

    ¡°Oh boy,¡± Dane could not help but mutter as he let out a sigh, thinking that the Ninth Prince would probably have a hard time in the war for the throne even though he had already ascended to a Rank 3 ss. Feeling that the information he had obtained from Veriano was enough, Dane went ahead and told him, ¡°Alright, that¡¯s all I¡¯ll ask from you. You can go ahead and leave.¡±

    Hearing that he could now leave, Veriano hastily stood up and ran towards the door that led out of the room. Just as he was about to continue running straight without hesitation, he suddenly stopped near the frame of the door before turning around and giving a respectful bow to both Cerius and Dane. He then said, ¡°If you may excuse me.¡±

    Whoosh!

    And just like that, he soon left the premises, leaving Dane and Cerius alone to themselves in Erea¡¯s room. They then looked at each other for a bit before simultaneously letting out a lightugh.

    Dane took the initiative to start the conversation, saying to Cerius with a light smile, ¡°The look on his face while he was running. Is that really how a High Official of the Tower should act?¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s because you have me, Dane,¡± Cerius grinned as he responded to Dane¡¯s words. ¡°If you had no backing in this tower, then you might have reacted the same way.¡±

    ¡°Fair enough,¡± Dane said before letting out a light chuckle. A few secondster, Dane let out a sigh as his expression turned serious once more, asking Cerius, ¡°Do you think that Veriano is telling the truth?¡±

    ¡°I had a truth-detecting spell activated while I was listening to Veriano talking,¡± Cerius said in response to Dane¡¯s words before adding, ¡°ording to the spell, he isn¡¯t lying.¡±

    ¡°Damn,¡± Dane could not help but say. ¡°An alliance of five princes. That¡¯s definitely a force to be reckoned with in the war for the throne.¡±

    ¡°Fortunately, the First Prince hasn¡¯t allied with anyone yet,¡± Cerius said after Dane was finished talking. ¡°If you can get the First Prince to ally with the Ninth Prince, then the Ninth Prince could probably fight against the Third Prince on even terms.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s if the First Prince epts,¡± Dane replied to Cerius¡¯s words before adding, ¡°He doesn¡¯t have any intention of joining in the war for the throne, even though he has enough strength to fight against the Third Prince with his sharp wits.¡±

    ¡°Well, I hope the Ninth Prince considers allying with the other princes,¡± Cerius said to Dane after pondering over Dane¡¯s words for a bit. ¡°The Elder over me has high hopes for the Ninth Prince.¡±

    ¡°Tell that Elder that I¡¯m going to do my best,¡± Dane replied to Cerius before adding, ¡°Also, tell him that if he could spare some Executives or High Executives of the Tower like you in the war for the throne, it would be great.¡±

    In response to his words, Cerius let out a chuckle as he said, ¡°I¡¯d actually be d to join in the war for the throne, but thepanions of the princes can only be at a Rank 4 ss at most. I¡¯ll try to ask the Elder if he could spare some other strong people though.¡±

    ¡°Thanks for helping me out, Cerius,¡± Dane soon said to Cerius with a tone of gratitude, to which Cerius responded with him extending his right palm. In response to this gesture, Dane tilted his head in slight confusion, eliciting a response from Cerius in the form of speech, saying, ¡°Your payment.¡±

    ¡°I thought we were good friends,¡± Dane said, to which Cerius replied, ¡°We are, but I can¡¯t do anything about the rules of the tower. I have to at least give something in exchange for my appearance here, instead of doing a mission for the tower.¡±

    Letting out a sigh, Dane went ahead and snapped his fingers, opening up a rift over Cerius¡¯s extended palm as a ball seemingly made out of stone dropped on it. Seeing that Cerius grabbed the stone ball with both hands, Dane then told him, ¡°That¡¯s my payment. The egg of a Rank 5 Silver Boulder Arachnid. Will that be enough?¡±

    ¡°Did you just say¡­a Silver Boulder Arachnid?¡± Cerius could not believe what he was hearing. ¡°A Silver Boulder Arachnid¡­considered as one of the bestnd mounts in the Seraph Kingdom, and you¡¯re paying with an egg? You do know that an egg of a Silver Boulder Arachnid is more valuable than a mature Silver Boulder Arachnid, right?¡±

    ¡°Of course, I do,¡± Dane replied to his words before adding, ¡°Give it to the Elder. I have a feeling that this will make him move hiszy bones to help me out.¡±

    ¡°I see,¡± Cerius finally understood the reason why Dane gave such a precious item to him, nodding in response. He then went ahead and formed a rift himself wherein he stored the egg before closing it soon after. After that, he then asked Dane, ¡°I assume that this will be all for now?¡±

    ¡°Yeah.¡± Dane nodded in response. ¡°I¡¯ll contact you when something importantes up.¡±

    ¡°Gotcha,¡± Cerius replied to Dane¡¯s words before saying, ¡°I¡¯ll be leaving first then.¡±

    Whoosh!

    Snapping his fingers, Cerius disappeared in front of Dane¡¯s vision in an instant, leaving Dane alone in his student¡¯s room. After taking a good look at the surroundings of the room, noticing the great number of small burn marks on one wall in the room, Dane let out a chuckle as he said, ¡°It¡¯s time to check up on my student.¡±

    Snap!

    And just like that, with a snap of his fingers, Dane disappeared from Erea¡¯s room in an instant, just like how Cerius left the room. A few secondster, he appeared in what seemed to be an extremely familiar room to him.

    ¡­

    Whoosh!

    Appearing in the center of a room extremely familiar room to him, Dane went ahead and lightly stretched his body, before going ahead and sitting down on a nearby chair. He then took a look around the room, eventually finding a young woman in a gray robe sitting on a chair far from where he was. Noticing how she was looking at him intently, Dane thought about something for a bit before changing his expression to that of slight anger.

    ¡°You¡¯ve brought quite the dilemma, Erea,¡± Dane said to the young woman, who was none other than Erea. He then added, ¡°Fortunately, I was walking through the area at the time, allowing you to teleport to this room before you were hit by that official¡¯s attack.¡±

    ¡°I apologize for giving you inconvenience, Teacher,¡± Erea said after standing up and deeply bowing in front of Dane.

    ¡°Inconvenience?¡± Dane scoffed at Erea¡¯s words before saying, ¡°You¡¯ve definitely given me an inconvenience, alright.¡±

    After saying those words, he then went ahead and stood up from his seat, his aura gradually intensifying with every step he took to get closer to Erea, who was still bowing in front of Dane. At this moment, Erea truly felt that she had inconvenienced her mentor. But just as she thought that she would feel the wrath of her mentor, what she felt instead was her mentor¡¯s warm touch on her head, instantly making her confused as she looked up to look at her mentor, who had a light smile on his face.

    ¡°You should have told me that you were breaking through to the next rank!¡± Dane said in a slightly yful tone. ¡°The aura you radiated was equivalent to a Rank 4 ss holder¡¯s aura, but you¡¯re just Rank 3! Didn¡¯t the thought of asking your master to mask your aura while ascending cross your mind?¡±

    ¡°I¡­uh¡­¡± Erea had no words to say, not expecting the drastic change in emotion from her mentor. Noticing that Erea was still feeling apologetic, Dane let out a light sigh before saying, ¡°Stand up. You didn¡¯t really do anything wrong. Veriano harbored malicious intentions towards you. To be honest, I should be the one apologizing.¡±

    ¡°Eh?¡± Erea listened to her mentor¡¯smands, standing up straight as she tilted her head in slight confusion, wondering why he should be the one to apologize. ¡°It was my fault for inconveniencing Teacher. I could¡¯ve handled it myself¡­¡±

    ¡°Although you say you could handle it yourself, remember that you¡¯re now part of the Ninth Prince¡¯s team,¡± Dane said in response to Erea¡¯s words before adding, ¡°If the Ninth Prince doesn¡¯t take care of his team members before the war for the throne, then would he be a great prince?¡±

    ¡°Uh¡­¡± Erea did not know what to say in response to Dane¡¯s question, to which Dane let out a light chuckle before saying, ¡°As I¡¯ve said, it¡¯s not your fault. The situation this time is actually moreplicated than you think.¡±

    ¡°Anyways, you¡¯ve broken through to a Rank 3 ss, right?¡± He soon changed the topic of conversation to that of Erea¡¯s advancement, to which Erea nodded before replying, ¡°Yes, Teacher. I¡¯ve obtained the ss of Dual Cortex Mage.¡±

    ¡°Dual Cortex Mage, huh.¡± Dane grinned in response to Erea¡¯s words before telling her, ¡°That¡¯s quite a rare ss. No wonder why you exuded a Rank 4 aura while you were advancing.¡±

    ¡°Go ahead and wear your ck robe,¡± Dane said not long after. ¡°Even though Veriano did some scummy stuff after officiating your advancement, it¡¯s still recorded by the tower that you¡¯ve advanced to a Rank 3 mage ss. Show everyone that you¡¯re now a Rank 3 mage.¡±

    ¡°Er¡­but there¡¯s no uh¡­¡± Although Erea was quite eager to change into her newly obtained ck robe, there was no ce for her to change her clothes in privacy. Fortunately, Dane noticed this dilemma and snapped his fingers, conjuring a dark wall between the two of them as he said, ¡°Alright, go ahead and change. If you want, I could close my eyes as well and turn around.¡±

    ¡°No need for that, Teacher.¡± Surprisingly, Erea responded to Dane¡¯s words not long after, saying, ¡°I¡¯m already done changing.¡±

    ¡°You sure?¡± Dane asked Erea to make sure, to which Erea responded with affirmation, prompting Dane to remove the dark wall separating the two of them, allowing Dane to get a better view of Erea¡¯s new robe. Unsurprisingly, it suited her very well, with the seams of the robe being done with gold thread, giving Erea a slightly noble air.

    ¡°How does it feel wearing the new robe?¡± Dane asked Erea with a smile on his face, to which Erea said, ¡°I feel¡­more important.¡±

    ¡°Good to know,¡± Dane said before adding, ¡°You¡¯ll feel more important once you reach Rank 4 and be an official of the tower.¡±

    After that, Dane pondered over something for a bit before looking at Erea once more. He then called for her attention.

    ¡°Erea?¡±

    ¡°Yes?¡± Erea responded to her mentor¡¯s words.

    ¡°Do you want to go and meet up with the Ninth Prince? If you don¡¯t want to, that¡¯s also fine since you have to consolidate your power,¡± Dane asked her this question, to which he added a statement that it would be fine if she declined.

    Surprisingly, Erea eded to her mentor¡¯s request, lightly smiling as she giggled, saying, ¡°To be honest, I would like to meet up with the Ninth Prince.¡±

    ¡°I have a lot of questions to ask him though.¡±

    ¡°Would that be fine?¡±

 Chapter 225: A Unique Trial

    Chapter 225: A Unique Trial

    Whoosh!

    After what seemed to be a slightly long time, Argentum eventually appeared in the corner of what seemed to be a room that was mostly crimson red in hue. Looking around his current surroundings, he was slightly confused as to what happened to him, but then, after seeing the splotches ofva and mes on the floor here and there throughout the room, he finally realized that he was inside the me Spirit Inheritance.

    ¡°I¡¯m finally inside,¡± Argentum said to himself in a slightly cheerful tone. ¡°Who knew that the word ¡®Sun¡¯ would be the key to entering the inheritance?¡±

    ¡°Then again, more people would think of the word ¡®Sun¡¯ first before ¡®Fireball¡¯,¡± he soon muttered to himself, letting out an awkward chuckle which only he could hear.

    After muttering to himself, he then went ahead and moved through the room, making sure to avoid theva and mes although he now had [Greater me Resistance].

    Ding!

    ¡°Hm?¡± Argentum stopped in his tracks as he heard a notification sound resound in his mind, prompting him to open up his notification screen. After reading through thetest notification he had received, he soonmanded the system, ¡°Evolve [Greater me Resistance].¡±

    Ding!

    ¡®[Greater me Resistance] has evolved into [Superior me Resistance].¡¯

    With his resistance towards the Fire element rising up a notch, Argentum went ahead and continued moving throughout the room, making sure to not miss a nook or cranny of the room. As to why he was doing this, the reason behind it was because he was finding the key that led to the start of the inheritance.

    Referencing the memories Aurus had while he attempted the me Spirit Inheritance, the twopanions that came along with Aurus searched for a certain item inside the room they appeared in, which Aurus also searched for alongside them. Although he did not know what that item was or what it looked like due to the memory being slightly muddled, Argentum knew that the item they found allowed them to head to the start of the inheritance since the three of them disappeared from the room at the very instant they found it.

    Unfortunately for him, even after using up around twenty minutes or so to scour the whole room for an item that stood out, Argentum was not able to find it, making him ponder as to whether he could actually enter the inheritance in the first ce.

    ¡°Wee inheritor to the me Spirit Inheritance.¡± Surprisingly, even though Argentum was not able to find the key that led to the start of the inheritance, a disembodied voice that came from a female resounded throughout the room Argentum was in, making Argentum wonder as to whether the mechanics of the inheritance had been changed since this was a real world.

    While Argentum continued to ponder whether the mechanics have been changed or not, the disembodied voice continued to talk, saying, ¡°Due to the inheritor¡¯s species being inclined towards an element that is inferior to Fire, this inheritance has decided to increase the difficulty of the inheritor¡¯s trials.¡±

    ¡°¡­what?¡± Although Argentum was still pondering on the mechanics of the inheritance, a great portion of his attention was still focused on what the disembodied voice was saying, prompting him to snap back to reality as he heard that the difficulty of his trials would be increased. ¡°What the heck does it mean by increasing the difficulty of the trials I have to clear?¡±

    ¡°Ain¡¯t this prejudice against those that are inclined towards the Wind element?¡± Argentum could not help but mutter not long after. Unfortunately for him, it seemed that the inheritance did not listen to his words, continuing to talk.

    ¡°The difficulty of the trials has been increased from B grade to A+ grade. The rewards of the trials have been increased to B grade to S++ grade.¡± This was what the disembodied voice said not long after Argentum was finished talking, leaving him at a loss for words as he thought about the pros and cons of the difficulty of the trials increasing.

    ¡°S++¡­¡± Argentum could not help but mutter, only for him to disappear from where he was a few secondster.

    ¡­

    In a deeper part of the me Spirit Inheritance.

    ¡°Haah¡­¡± A ball of fire let out a yawning sound as its mes intensified in heat, its color transforming from red to blue in an instant. Not long after that, this blue ball of fire soon morphed into a humanoid body, taking on the body of a well-endowed woman as it went ahead and stretched a few secondster.

    ¡°It seems I¡¯m awake,¡± this woman made out of mes muttered to herself in slight annoyance, wondering why she was awoken at a time wherein she was sleeping soundly. Circting the energy inside her body, she then released it in the form of strands, conjuring a few screens that allowed her to obtain views of certain parts of the inheritance like a surveince system.

    This woman made out of mes was none other than the master of the me Spirit Inheritance. Unlike other inheritances wherein the maker of the inheritance would have already been dead at the time it was discovered, delegating the workings of the inheritance to an artificial spirit, the me Spirit Inheritance was made by this woman out of mes, seeing that her fellow Pseudo-Animates inclined towards the Fire element were growing weaker and weaker with every generation.

    Not only that, but the number of Pseudo-Animates that roamed throughout the area also gradually turned less due to how useful they were for the Animates, making her abhor the existence of the Animates, wanting to kill them. She went ahead and killed a lot of Animates to avenge the Pseudo-Animates that were poached by the Animates, allowing her to earn the moniker of the ¡®Undying me Spirit¡¯ from the Animates¡­only for her to be gravely injured by an incredibly strong Animate.

    With such a grave injury, she decided to go into hiding in the inheritance she had made as she guided the Pseudo-Animates that entered this inheritance to be stronger. As for the Animates that discovered this inheritance through sheer luck or word of mouth, they would only end up with one ending in this inheritance¡­death.

    Gradually bing more and more awake as she looked at the screens she had conjured, her sense of vision eventually locked onto one of the screens since she saw something that wasn¡¯t there in the first ce.

    ¡°Eh? A Pseudo-Animate?¡± she muttered to herself in slight curiosity, infusing more energy into the screen that she was staring in order to get a better view. After a few seconds, the quality of the screen had be significantly better, allowing her to get a better view of the Pseudo-Animate she was looking at.

    ¡°A Wind-based Pseudo-Animate?¡± she said in a tone of slight confusion, wondering how a Pseudo-Animate of the opposing element had survived the harsh environment that surrounded the inheritance. A few secondster, her sense of vision soon focused on what the Pseudo-Animate was wearing, namely, the two leaves that were attached around his waist.

    ¡°I wonder why they aren¡¯t burning,¡± she muttered to herself while wondering as to why the Pseudo-Animate she was looking at would cover the lower portion of its body with leaves, even though a Pseudo-Animate could manipte the shape of their body at will. It did not take long for the Wind-based Pseudo-Animate to pique her interest as she let out a chuckle.

    ¡°It¡¯s been a long time since a Pseudo-Animate has entered this inheritance,¡± she said in a slightly cheery tone, which soon turned to that of disgust as she continued, ¡°It has always been Animates that entered this inheritance. Disgusting beings. Incredibly disgusting beings.¡±

    ¡°Then again, I really wonder how that Pseudo-Animate is not affected by the environment at all,¡± she soon added, deciding to use a bit of her energy to make the item that led to the start of the inheritance, which was in the same room the Wind-based Pseudo-Animate was at, disappear. After that, she went ahead and used a bit more of her energy to manipte the mechanics in some rooms of the inheritance as she grabbed a bit more rewards from the reward room of the inheritance.

    ¡°Although you¡¯re a Wind-based Pseudo-Animate, you¡¯re still a Pseudo-Animate,¡± she muttered to himself before adding, ¡°If you can survive the trials I¡¯ve tailored for you, even as a Wind-based Pseudo-Animate, then you¡¯re deserving of the rewards.¡±

    ¡°Now that I think about it¡­I¡¯ll just tell the Pseudo-Animate that the difficulty has been raised alongside the rewards,¡± she soon muttered after pondering over a few things for a bit. ¡°That way, it won¡¯t think that it¡¯s peculiar.¡±

    ¡°Of course, they¡¯re not that hard at all. Hehe.¡±

    ¡­

    Some time has passed since Argentum disappeared from the first room he was in, eventually appearing in another room a couple of minutester. At the very instant he appeared in this new room, the first thing he realized was that the room was incredibly boring. It was akin to therge stone room Aurus was in while he was taking the impromptu test from the Supreme Ruler of the Void.

    In fact, Argentum felt that this room was exactly the same as the room Aurus was in since this was in essence, arge stone room as well.

    Rumble¡­

    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!

    Just as he realized that he was in a stone room, the floor started to rumble as ten pirs of varying heights appeared in the center of the room. These ten pirs were arranged in a circr formation, with one tall pir in the center of the formation while nine pirs with varying heights surrounded this tall pir.

    Wondering as to what the purpose of these pirs was, a few secondster, red mes soon manifested on top of the nine outer pirs. As for the single inner pir, arge orange me manifested on it, giving Argentum the feeling that he was looking at a variant of Stonehenge in one way or another.

    ¡°This is the first trial you shall undertake,¡± the disembodied voice he heard before resounded in this room after the mes on top of the pirs had manifested.

    ¡°The name of this trial is the Grand me Dispersal,¡± the disembodied voice continued talking. While Argentum was pondering as to what kind of mechanics a trial with such a name would have, the disembodied voice soon continued with its exnation.

    ¡°The goal of this trial is quite simple. Using any method avable, the inheritor must¡­¡±

    ¡°Remove the mes that are on top of the pirs.¡±

    ¡°¡­eh?¡± Argentum could not help but think that he heard wrongly. Remove the mes that are on top of the pirs? Wasn¡¯t that just putting out the mes on top of the pirs? Surely, this trial isn¡¯t like that, right?

    These kinds of thoughts shed across Argentum¡¯s mind as he wondered whether he had heard wrongly. Fortunately, the disembodied voice repeated its exnation, allowing Argentum to know that he had actually heard correctly, making him utter, ¡°¡­eh?¡±

    ¡°There is no time limit to this trial, but the inheritor will get more rewards if all of the mes on the pirs are removed as fast as possible,¡± the disembodied voice added in its exnation.

    ¡°Let the first trial¡­¡±

    ¡°Begin!¡±

    After the disembodied voice signaled the start of the first trial, Argentum pondered over how he was going to remove the mes on the pirs for a short bit, muttering, ¡°If I had skills that were of the Water element, this would be incredibly easy. Unfortunately, the Azure Shores is the second stop in my location.¡±

    ¡°Then again, wind could still remove fires through blowing,¡± Argentum continued to mutter before asking himself, ¡°Do I have a skill that¡¯s akin to blowing a gust of wind?¡±

    He soonmanded the system to open up his skill list, prompting him to skim through it, only to find out that he had no such skill at all. Feeling slightly dejected, he pondered on what he could do to create a gust of wind. Thankfully, a spark of inspiration appeared in his mind, making Argentum feel like he had a shot if it actually did what he wanted to.

    Alongside this thought, he could not help but ask himself, ¡°If this method works, then¡­¡±

    ¡°What¡¯s the point of living?¡±

    ¡°[Tempest Awakening]!¡±

    Whoosh!

    ¡°[Lower Tempest Magic: Zephyr Burst]!¡±

    Whoosh!

    In an instant, Argentum activated two skills, both of which enhanced¡­his movement speed.

    In short, Argentum was going to increase his movement speed to its limit, thinking that the gust of wind made as he ran would be able to put out the mes on top of these pirs.

    Although he felt like it was a stupid idea, it still made some sense. He then psyched himself up, shouting, ¡°This will work! This will work!¡±

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    Not long after that, Argentum then went ahead and ran around the pirs, gradually picking up speed as he could hear the sound of wind gradually getting louder and louder through his sense of hearing. Eventually, when he thought that the speed at which he was running was fast enough for a strong gust of wind, he then went ahead and jumped to the height of the mes, bringing the gust of wind to their level.

    Swoosh!

    In an instant, all of the mes on the nine outer pirs were put out by the gust of wind he had generated from his running. As for therge orange me on top of the tall inner pir, it swayed a bit thanks to the gust of the wind, but it was not enough for it to be put out.

    Nheless, Argentum made a lot of progress with just one move, only needing him to put out one more me before he would be finished with the trial. As hended on the ground, he was left at a loss for words as an aura of intense disbelief radiated from him.

    He could not help but look at the nine outer pirs surrounding the tall inner pir with the only me left after that. He then took a deep breath before muttering out in a tone of disbelief¡­

    ¡°That actually worked?¡±

 Chapter 226: Is This Really A Trial?

    Chapter 226: Is This Really A Trial?

    ¡°That actually worked?¡± Argentum could not help but mutter to himself in a tone of disbelief. Although he had just done it, he still could not believe the fact that running around the nine pirs at a fast speed and jumping would actually put out the mes on top of the nine outer pirs.

    He then went ahead and took in a few deep breaths, calming his senses back to rationality and logicality as he looked at therge orange me on top of the pir in the center of the circr formation. With the help of [Keen Vision], Argentum was able to check whether the orange me was affected by the gust of wind he had made through running, noticing that he was only able to make it sway a little bit with the strength of the wind he made.

    With the thought that therge orange me would be blown away by a strong gust of wind just like the nine red mes, Argentum made his way towards the inneryers of the circr formation, somewhat thankful that there was a decent gap between the center pir and the outer pirs, allowing him to run without worrying about bumping into the outer pirs.

    Since [Tempest Awakening] and [Zephyr Burst] were buffs thatsted for quite a long time, with [Tempest Awakening] reliant on the amount of MP he had, Argentum headed straight into running around the center pir, gradually picking up speed, as well as wind in the process.

    Little by little, the sound of the wind near his sense of hearing became louder, eventually reaching a point where it was near deafening, a level of loudness that he had not reached while he was running around the nine outer pirs. Having an intuitive feeling that a gust of wind at this strength would be able to topple down therge orange me on top of the center pir, Argentum abruptly stopped running before jumping with all of his might, allowing the gust of wind he had created to reach therge orange me.

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    In response to the strong gust of wind, therge orange me was blown towards all directions, its brightness dimming in an instant as Argentum could see the embers where therge orange me originated. Just as Argentum thought that therge orange me would be fully blown away by the gust of wind he had made, the force behind the gust of wind had unfortunately run out at the instant a small me was what remained from therge orange me.

    Fwoosh!

    Since no gust of wind was blowing on the orange me, it did not take long for the orange me to berge again, giving Argentum the idea that the nine outer pirs were intentionally easy to clear so that he would have a lot of confidence when trying to remove therge orange me, only for him to fail as his confidence crumbles.

    ¡°There¡¯s finally a challenge to this trial,¡± Argentum muttered with a light chuckle. ¡°And here I thought the difficulty of the trial stated by the disembodied voice was actually fake.¡±

    ¡°Then again¡­if there was more force in the gust of wind I made, I would be able to remove therge orange me on top of the center pir, thus clearing this trial,¡± Argentum continued as he pondered on what other methods he had that could remove therge orange me.

    Surprisingly, only one method came to mind after what seemed to be a moment of pondering, which was a method that he considered unfeasible since it had close to no effect in removing the mes when he first thought up of it. The reason why he thought that this method would work this time was that he thought that the method of removing therge orange me was different from the red mes, which only needed a strong gust of wind to be removed.

    Letting out a short sigh, Argentum went ahead and looked up at therge orange me that was still going strong. As he looked at it, he muttered, ¡°If my thoughts are actually correct, I think I¡¯m gonna lose it in this inheritance.¡±

    ¡°[Enhanced Offense].¡±

    ¡°[Lower Tempest Magic: Wind Ball].¡±

    Whoosh!

    As a faint red aura enveloped his whole body due to the effects of [Enhanced Offense], giving Argentum the feeling that he had the strength to fight against tens of Pseudo-Animates at once, a ball of wind was soon conjured on top of Argentum¡¯s right palm, which was also enveloped in the same red aura that covered his body.

    Taking in a deep breath, he then went ahead and threw the ball of wind towards therge orange me.

    Whoosh!

    While the ball of wind was heading towards therge orange me, Argentum¡¯s thoughts could not help but be split into two. One thought was thinking that the ball of wind would not have any effect at all, with therge orange me bing the victor at the end of it. As for the other thought, it was thinking that the ball of wind would be able to disperse therge orange me, thus allowing him to clear the trial at a fast rate.

    ¡°All I have to do is to wait and s¡ª¡± Just as he said these words while looking at the aftermath of the collision, Argentum stopped talking as he felt his words be stuck somewhere along the way, leaving him at a loss for words as an aura of intense disbelief radiated from him once more.

    Fwoosh!

    Expecting that the ball would not affect therge orange me in any way, which seemed to be the most logical and rational oue of the collision, what happened instead was the exact opposite. At the very instant the ball and therge orange me had collided with one another, the ball of wind went ahead and exploded, instantly dispersing therge orange me into nothingness. In other words, therge orange me was put out.

    After therge orange me was dispersed, a deafening silence spread throughout the room, with most of it originating from Argentum. It was only after a minute or so did Argentume back to his senses, feeling that his mouth went agape as he muttered, ¡°That¡­actually worked?¡±

    ¡°What the fuck?¡± This question was what circted in Argentum¡¯s mind after seeing the aftermath of the collision. Fortunately, Argentum¡¯s train of thought was pulled towards another track as the disembodied voice from before resounded in the room Argentum was in, saying, ¡°The inheritor haspleted the Grand me Dispersal within a time of 3 minutes and 45 seconds. The inheritor has obtained the highest possible reward for the first trial.¡±

    Ding!

    After the disembodied voice was finished speaking, a notification sound resounded within Argentum¡¯s mind, prompting him to open up his notification screen with slightly high expectations on the reward he would get from the first trial. As he wondered as to what kind of reward he would get from the inheritance on its first trial, Argentum could not help but mutter to himself, ¡°Since the grade of rewards in this inheritance is S++, that means the reward I¡¯ll get from this first trial is¡ª¡±

    Just as he was about to finish his statement, he was instantly left at a loss for words as he read thetest notification he had received, opening and closing his sense of vision a few times to make sure if he was dreaming. Feeling that he was still dreaming, he went ahead and shot a bolt of wind towards himself, feeling great pain from it as he soon activated [Tempest Regeneration+], the evolved version of [Grand Breeze Rejuvenation].

    Letting out a soft hiss sound from the pain, he then said to himself, still in disbelief, ¡°I¡¯m not dreaming at all. I actually obtained one of the skills I wanted from this inheritance on its first trial.¡±

    ¡®You have obtained the active skill [Lesser me Magic] as a reward.¡¯

    ¡°[Lesser me Magic],¡± Argentum muttered in disbelief as he closed the notification screen not long after. He then said, ¡°With this skill, this puts me one step closer to the evolution I¡¯m aiming for.¡±

    Just as he was about to test out his newly obtained [Lesser me Magic], the disembodied voice resounded throughout the room once more, making Argentum radiate an aura of confusion as he listened to it.

    ¡°The inheritor shall now have a ten-minute break before the next trial. The inheritance rmends the inheritor to increase their prowess with the [Lesser me Magic] skill in preparation for the second trial. The second trial will solely rely on the inheritor¡¯s prowess with the [Lesser me Magic] skill.¡±

    ¡°Well¡­this is a first,¡± Argentum said after processing what the disembodied voice had just said, feeling that the inheritance was now bing serious. Letting out a light chuckle, he then said, ¡°A ten-minute break would be more than enough for me to reach its max level¡­and probably reach the Basic level of mastery?¡±

    ¡°I guess I¡¯ll just have to grind it to find out,¡± Argentum said, only for him to remember the massive killing spree he had undergone before entering the inheritance, making him slightly radiate an aura of feeling pained.

    ¡°Ugh¡­never again¡­¡±

    ¡­

    In a deeper part of the me Spirit Inheritance.

    ¡°Hoh? For a Pseudo-Animate, it¡¯s quite smart,¡± the woman made out of mes said as she looked at the screen wherein Argentum was clearing the first trial. In fact, the screen with Argentum on it was the only screen in front of her field of vision, wanting to focus on his journey in clearing the inheritance.

    ¡°Well, it¡¯s definitely deserving of a reward,¡± she said not long after, manipting a bit of her energy to send a reward she had handpicked towards the Pseudo-Animate she was looking at. At the very instant the Pseudo-Animate had obtained the reward, an aura of disbelief radiated from the Pseudo-Animate, making herugh at its reaction.

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡± A few secondster, the woman made out of mes pondered over what the second trial for the Pseudo-Animate was going to be, an aura of yfulness radiating from her soon after as she chuckled and said, ¡°How about making the second trial be rted to the reward it had just got?¡±

    ¡°This would surely allow it to be more familiar with wielding the Fire element. Not only that, but it might just affect its evolution choices as well,¡± she said in an interested and cheerful tone. ¡°I wonder what kind of species it¡¯ll evolve into with such a skill? A Pseudo-Animate that has an affinity with both Fire and Wind at the same time? Or will it turn out into a Pseudo-Animate that has one element be dominant and the other recessive?¡±

    ¡°I almost forgot about the reward!¡± Realizing that her train of thought had slightly gone off course, she brought herself back to her previous train of thought, which was rted to the reward the Pseudo-Animate would get from the second trial. Pondering over it for a bit, a burst of raucousughter resounded from her not long after as she shouted, ¡°Yeah! That¡¯ll be incredibly interesting!¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll have the reward be a part of the trial!¡±

    ¡­

    Ten minutes had eventually passed since Argentum had started grinding out [Lesser me Magic]. Surprisingly, his prediction from ten minutes ago was not wrong, with the skill being at its maximum level while the level of mastery he had over the skill was at the Basic level.

    Fwoosh! Fwoosh!

    Manipting a ball of fire like it was an extension of his limbs, Argentum could not help but look at it as he muttered, ¡°It seems that [Lesser Wind Magic] and [Lesser me Magic] both have the same spells at the beginning grades. An offensive spell in the shape of a ball and¡­¡±

    ¡°[Lesser me Magic: me Bolt]!¡±

    Fwoosh!

    Not long after, a bolt of fire was soon conjured over his right palm, using his thoughts to move the bolt of fire around like it was some sort of fish afterward. Seeing the bolt of fire move, he then said, ¡°An offensive spell in the shape of a bolt.¡±

    ¡°Does that mean I¡¯ll also get a movement boosting spell once I evolve it to the next grade?¡± Argentum could not help but ponder over this, thinking that the two magic-rted skills would give him the same spells, with the only difference between being their elements. Then again, it kind of made sense, seeing as how both of them had the same types of spells at the start.

    Just as he was about to delve deeper into what seemed to be a rabbit hole of overthinking, the disembodied voice resounded in the room once more, prompting Argentum to dispel the spells he had just conjured and focus all of his attention towards the voice.

    ¡°The inheritor¡¯s ten-minute break is now over. The inheritance shall now prepare the stage for the second trial.¡± This was what the disembodied voice said, which was soon followed up with a rumbling sound as the pirs became flush with the floor.

    Rumble¡­

    A few secondster, a support beam that went from one end to another end of the wall manifested, taking on the color of the stone that covered the room. Not long after that, fiverge hooks appeared on this stone-colored beam, giving off an aura that even a light touch on their tips would tear a person into two.

    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!

    After the hooks had appeared, one by one, what seemed to berge bs of meat appeared in therge stone room, which hung upon the fiverge hooks that appeared a few seconds ago.

    Seeing this sight in front of him, Argentum was left at a loss for words since he had no idea what he was going to do for this trial. Fortunately, the disembodied voice soon dispelled Argentum¡¯s confusion, exining the mechanics of the second trial.

    ¡°The name of the second trial is me Mastery Control,¡± the disembodied voice said before adding, ¡°The goal of this trial is for the inheritor to use their prowess with the [Lesser me Magic] skill to cook these five bs of meat to perfection.¡±

    ¡°The inheritor does not have to worry about the meat bing burnt. This inheritance will tell the inheritor whether the meat has reached an optimal temperature from the exposure of the inheritor¡¯s me magic,¡± the disembodied voice continued with its exnation.

    ¡°To obtain the highest reward, the inheritor must cook all 5 bs of meat to perfection,¡± the disembodied voice added in thest minute before saying, ¡°Let the trial begin!¡±

    ¡°¡­¡± Although he had listened to the disembodied voice intently, making sure to process it in his mind to get a better understanding of it, Argentum was still left at a loss for words, radiating an aura of intense disbelief as he truly cannot believe the trial he was going to clear.

    Taking in a deep breath, he looked at the bs of meat before looking up at the ceiling. Letting out a long sigh, he then went ahead and shouted¡­

    ¡°Is this really a trial?!¡±

 Chapter 227: Unbelievably Amazing

    Chapter 227: Unbelievably Amazing

    ¡°Is this really a trial?!¡± Argentum could not help but shout in a tone of anger, wondering whether the inheritance he had entered was the same me Spirit Inheritance in Aurus¡¯s memories. Although it had the same name, the same location, and what seemed to be the same rewards in reference to his memories, the same could not be said with its mechanics.

    Eventually, Argentum let out a long sigh, removing all of the anger and confusion that was pent up inside his body alongside it. He then took a look at the five bs of meat that were organized in a horizontal line a decent away from him. At this moment, he changed his mindset to that of someone eager to clear trials no matter how crazy the mechanics of the trials are, radiating an aura of seriousness as he pondered on how he was going to cook the bs of meatid out in front of him.

    ¡°The inheritance did say that this trial is highly reliant on my prowess over [Lesser Fire Magic], plus it also said that it¡¯ll tell me when I¡¯ve cooked a b of meat to perfection,¡± Argentum muttered to himself as he pondered, gradually making his way towards the leftmost b of meat. At the very instant he had closed the gap between him and the first b of meat he had to cook, Argentum was instantly mesmerized by the beauty of the meat in front of him.

    ¡°Such glorious marbling¡­¡± Argentum could not help but say as Aurus¡¯s memories of watching a lot of cooking videos while eating surfaced in his mind, making him salivate even though he was a body made out of energy. He then ced one of his hands on the meat to get a better feeling for it, letting out a sigh of awe as he soon said, ¡°It also has a plump texture as well.¡±

    ¡°No, wait. I shouldn¡¯t be thinking about these things,¡± he said to himself as he realized that his train of thought had gone off-course. He then shook his head vigorously to return his train of thought to that of clearing the trial, prompting him to ce his index finger and thumb under his chin as he rubbed it, thinking on how he was going to cook these big bs of meat.

    ¡®Do I throw a fireball at it?¡¯ This was the first thought Argentum had in his mind when the thought of cooking these bs of meat came to mind. The reason as to why Argentum thought that this would be the way to cook these bs of meat was due to the thickness of the cuts, being as wide as Argentum¡¯s arm. Eventually, he thought a bit deeper into this idea, discarding the idea as he muttered, ¡°That would just burn the meat.¡±

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡± Argentum pondered a bit more on how he was going to cook such a huge b of meat¡­well, five huge bs of meat, making sure that he had enough control over the power of the mes in order for them to be cooked to perfection, which was the requirement to clear the trial. While he was mulling over this problem, he rummaged through Aurus¡¯s memories, specifically the memories in his past life where he would cook for himself.

    Surprisingly, it did not take long for Argentum to realize what he needed to do, watching Aurus cook an egg through the memory. Reverting his focus to that of the b of meat in front of him, he soon conjured a fireball that was not around the size of his palm. He then went ahead and slowly brought the fireball closer to the b of meat, eventually stopping the fireball at a distance of a few centimeters from the surface of the meat.

    He then used [Keen Vision] to get a closer look at what the fireball was doing to the meat since he wanted to know whether this thought would be a better choice than just throwing fireballs all over the bs of meat and making sure that each part is covered. After about a minute or so, an incredibly small part on the surface of the meat, which was in close contact with the heat radiating from the fireball, gradually turned brown, eliciting a light chuckle from Argentum as he knew that he was going to use this method.

    ¡°Although this method would be slow, it¡¯s something that a few more fireballs would be able to fix,¡± Argentum said with confidence, remembering that the inheritance told him that the goal was to cook all 5 bs of meat to perfection, not cook them to perfection at the fastest time possible. If the goal of this trial was thetter, then he might have gone with the fireball throwing method, making sure to reduce the power stored within them in order to not burn the meat.

    But since there was no need for Argentum to rush it, he decided that this method would be better in the long term, allowing Argentum great control over the cooking of the meat.

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    Seeing that one fireball was not enough to cook a decently sized part of the meat, Argentum went ahead and conjured three more fireballs and manipted them to stop a few centimeters away from the surface of the meat in other parts of it, bringing the total number of fireballs simultaneously cooking the first b of meat to four.

    As time passed, a savory aroma started to suffuse from the b of meat Argentum was cooking, spreading throughout the room as Argentum unhesitatingly inhaled its scent, letting out a sigh of wonder in response. He went ahead and looked at the progress of the four fireballs in cooking the first b of meat, noticing that they have already browned quite a decent area of the meat¡¯s surface.

    Looking at the browned parts of the meat, Argentum could not help but feel like salivating once more, muttering, ¡°If I were an Animate, from the scent it was giving off alone, I¡¯m definitely sure that I¡¯d die happy after eating just a tiny piece of it.¡±

    ¡°Too bad cooking these meats is a part of the trial though,¡± Argentum said not long after, letting out a sigh of slight dejection. ¡°I¡¯m pretty sure they¡¯ll be moved somewhere after I sessfully finish the trial.¡±

    Whoosh!

    Just as Argentum focused his sense of vision back on the fireballs, making sure to slowly move them to cook the other parts of the meat in an even manner, a long rectangle appeared on the floor a few decimeters away from the b of meat Argentum was cooking, glowing quite intensely, which made Argentum focus his sense of vision towards it in slight annoyance.

    Wondering why such a rectangle would appear at this moment the rectangle¡¯s inner area was soon filled to around 1/6 of the way, making Argentum wonder even more. Fortunately, the disembodied voice of the inheritance resounded at the very instant Argentum was about to ask the inheritance about this, saying, ¡°To help the inheritor out in making sure that the bs of meat have been cooked to perfection, once a b of meat has been cooked to a certain point, a glowing rectangle would appear below the b of meat, telling the inheritor how close to perfection the cooked meat is.¡±

    ¡°Once the glowing rectangle is filled up halfway, that means the b of meat has been cooked to perfection,¡± the disembodied voice said not long after, to which Argentum muttered to himself, ¡°Ah, so this is how the inheritance is going to help me out.¡±

    Just as he was about to focus his sense of vision back on the b of meat he was cooking, a spark of inspiration shed in his mind as he thought about the glowing rectangle, prompting him to look at the b of meat beside the b of meat he was currently cooking. As he ced his index finger and thumb under his chin once more as his sense of vision moved towards the ceiling, it did not take long for a n to be formted in Argentum¡¯s mind that would take advantage of the glowing rectangle, increasing the speed at which he would cook all of the bs of meat while making sure that they were cooked to perfection.

    ¡°Now that I think about it, I contradict myself sometimes,¡± Argentum could not help but chuckle as this thought came across his mind. ¡°I went with this method of cooking the meat so I have better control over the browning of the meat, which meant that I was sacrificing speed in exchange for quality. But here I am, wanting to conjure more fireballs to cook the other bs simultaneously while I rely on the guide of the glowing rectangle to tell me whether the bs of meat have been cooked to perfection.¡±

    ¡°Oh, well. I¡¯ll just think that there¡¯s an additional reward if I cook them fast enough, just to justify my actions,¡± he said afterward, letting out another chuckle as he went ahead and conjured 4 more fireballs before manipting them to head towards the second b of meat. In an instant, he felt a great increase in the burden in his mind from controlling 8 fireballs at once. Moving the 4 fireballs he had just conjured to slowly cook the second b of meat, the burden he felt had increased by a few more notches, making Argentum feel that this was his limit for now unless if he pushed himself.

    Nheless, cooking another b of meat at the same time meant that was he was clearing the trial at twice the speed, with the first b of meat eventually being cooked to perfection after around 30 minutes or so.

    A great aroma could be smelled from the first b of meat, while its appearance, which was akin to arge piece of perfectly cooked steak, made Argentum feel like he was looking at a culinary work of art. Not only that, but there was also the oils of the cooked meat on the floor of therge stone room, tempting Argentum a bit as he knew that the oils that dripped from such a piece of meat would surely be heavenly.

    Fortunately, Argentumposed himself, moving the 4 fireballs that cooked the first b of meat onto the third b of meat, forcing himself to actively ignore the aroma of the perfectly cooked first b of meat as he radiated an aura of mncholy.

    Thankfully, it seemed that Argentum¡¯s determination to make sure that all 5 bs of meat were perfectly cooked won over his intense urges of devouring the bs of meat in front of him. In total, it took Argentum almost 3 hours to cook all bs of meat to perfection, with every b of meat being perfectly browned with enough charred spots that made it look like five pieces of steak cooked by a world-ss chef.

    Whoosh!

    After thest b of meat was cooked to perfection, the glowing rectangles that allowed Argentum to know whether he had cooked the bs of meat perfectly, disappeared in an instant, which was soon followed up by the disembodied voice.

    It said, ¡°The inheritor has sessfully cooked all 5 bs of meat to perfection. The inheritor has sessfully cleared the trial ¡®me Control Mastery¡¯.¡±

    Although he was quite ecstatic that he hadpleted the second trial without much problem, he could not help but feel a stinging pain inside him as he knew that he would part ways with the bs of meat he had just cooked to perfection. To him, it was akin to a chef finally cooking what seemed to be the highest quality dish they¡¯ve ever made, only for it to be served to a customer without a sensitive pte. In other words, Argentum felt like it was a waste for the inheritance to not give the bs of meat to him instead.

    Surprisingly, the inheritance seemed to have answered his prayers, with the disembodied voice resounding throughout the room once more, telling him, ¡°The reward of this trial is the 5 bs of meat that the inheritor has just cooked. These bs of meat are the meat of an Ignis Kaiser Lion, a Rank 4 Fire-based Animate. The inheritance rmends the inheritor to ingest them as fast as possible in preparation for the third trial.¡±

    ¡°Eh?¡± Listening to the disembodied voice¡¯s words as he processed them, Argentum wondered if he had heard wrongly. The reward was the meat he had cooked? Did the inheritance just say that?

    Fortunately, the disembodied voice repeated its words once more, finally allowing Argentum to be at ease as he looked at the meat in front of him with great pride and glee. Technically, this was the first piece of food Argentum was going to eat in this world. As he thought of the vor profile of the meat he had cooked, Argentum could not help but think to himself, ¡®Aw man, if the original body was awake, I would have definitely shared some of this with them.¡¯

    ¡®I hope you can settle with my memories instead, Aurus,¡¯ Argentum thought to himself not long after, taking in a deep breath before moving towards the first b of meat he had cooked. He looked at it for a bit, admiring the browning on the surface of the meat before going ahead and opening his mouth and chomping down on it, hacking off a huge piece of meat from it.

    Fwoosh!

    At the very instant he chewed on this piece of meat he hacked off, a gush of vor circted throughout his body, making him feel like he had ascended to another state of being from the taste of the meat alone. A rich salty yet savory vor came from the meat as Argentum continued to bite, with a small spicy kick adding to the taste of the meat every once in a while.

    Due to the taste of the meat, Argentum had unknowingly hacked off anotherrge piece from the b of meat, gorging down all of it within a matter of seconds as he made sure tomit the taste of the meat to his mind. It was only after he hadmitted the memory to mind did Argentum realize that he hadpletely devoured the first b of meat without difficulty.

    ¡°I already ate the first b?¡± Argentum could not help but radiate confusion as he wondered what had happened to the b of meat while he was savoring its vor. He then focused his sense of vision towards the remaining four bs of meat as he radiated an aura of tion and happiness.

    ¡°Then again, I still have four more bs of meat to chow down.¡±

    Ding!

    Just as he was about to move onto the next b of meat, a notification sound resounded in his mind, slightly confusing him as he had not obtained a skill or anything else from the inheritance that needs the system to notify him. The only thing he had obtained from the current trial was bs of meat.

    As he thought up to this point, Argentum then realized that the b of meat he had just eaten might have special effects, hastily prompting him to open up his notification screen and skim through thetest notifications he had received. After seeing thetest notifications, Argentum was left at a loss for words from awe, which was soon reced with tion as he shouted, ¡°Truly befitting of an S++ grade reward!¡±

    ¡®You have consumed the meat of an Ignis Kaiser Lion. The mastery level of [Lesser me Magic] has increased from Basic to Adept.¡¯

    ¡®You have consumed the meat of an Ignis Kaiser Lion. Your affinity towards the Fire element has slightly increased.¡¯

 Chapter 228: Seven Flame Road

    Chapter 228: Seven me Road

    After finding out that the rewards he had obtained from eating the b of meat allowed him to increase his mastery of [Lesser Fire Magic] and increase his affinity towards Fire, he looked at the remaining four of bs of meat with a gaze that exuded intense greed and gluttony as he said with tion, ¡°Truly a reward befitting the S++ grade!¡±

    Whoosh!

    Without hesitation, he went ahead and moved onto the second b of meat, widening his mouth to its limit as he hacked offrger chunks from the second b of meat whenpared to the first b. Surprisingly, this move allowed him to experience a greater burst of vor from the meat. Not only did he taste the salty and savory vor with a hint of a spicy kick from before, but he also tasted a far deeper vor from the meat, bringing out the uniqueness of each vor and enhancing it even further.

    This, in turn, made him wolf down the second b of meat in record time, only taking around ten seconds or so for the b of meat to disappear from the face of Erudinia and be absorbed by Argentum¡¯s body instead. Hearing a notification sound from the system not long after, informing Argentum that the mastery of [Lesser Fire Magic] and his affinity with the Fire element had increased once more, Argentum went ahead and moved towards the third b of meat, letting out a sigh filled with slight mncholy as his view was filled with the b of meat.

    ¡°If this were another time, I would have definitely savored every second eating these five bs of meat,¡± Argentum muttered to himself in a slightly mncholic tone. ¡°Too bad I need to eat these bs as fast as possible.¡±

    Just as he was about to open his mouth agape yet again, a thought rted to the meat he was eating popped up in his mind, which fused with his goal of bing a Super Animate, forming a new thought that made him more motivated to eat these bs of meat as possible.

    ¡®The inheritance said that this meat I¡¯m eating came from a Rank 4 Ignis Kaiser Lion¡­which is an Animate,¡¯ Argentum thought to himself, lightly chuckling as he started biting down on his third b of meat. ¡®In other words, I need to be a Super Animate as fast and as powerful as possible so I can eat this kind of meat again!¡¯

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    And so, just with that thought in his mind, Argentum wolfed down the next two bs of meat in less than ten seconds, setting a faster time than before as his mastery of [Lesser Fire Magic] had reached the Master level, which he had been informed of through the system. This prompted him to evolve the skill to its next grade, its name now being [Lower ze Magic+]. As for his affinity with the Fire element, it had now reached a point that his feeling towards mes and other things that were rted to the Fire element was somewhat akin to what he felt with the Wind element.

    In short, a close connection.

    Naturally, thest b of meat was wolfed down within a few seconds, increasing the mastery of his newly evolved [Lesser ze Magic+] to Basic level, eliciting a light chuckle from Argentum as he said, ¡°I guess I¡¯ll have to grind less to reach the highest level of mastery for this skill.¡±

    After being notified of his skill mastery going up by a level, he then turned his focus towards that of his affinity towards the Fire element, reading the first few words of the notification with a cheerful aura radiating from him, only for it to change to that of tion by the time he was finished reading.

    ¡°You¡¯re kidding, right?¡± This was the first question that popped up into his head as he read the notification. This time though, he did not need to inflict any pain onto himself or need the inheritance to repeat itself since he now had a grasp of how unbelievable the rewards at S++ grade were. Taking in a deep breath to calm his emotions, which soon intensified not long after, Argentum let out a loud cackle as he said, ¡°The skill that I wanted the most from the inheritance¡­is finally in my hands!¡±

    Ding!

    ¡®Your affinity with the Fire element has increased once more, bringing out a qualitative change of your affinity towards it. Due to this qualitative change, the passive skill [Fire Affinity] has been obtained.¡¯

    Closing the notification screen after that, Argentum went ahead andmanded the system to open up its description since he wanted to know whether or not the inheritance added something onto it.

    Ding!

    As soon as the holographic screen appeared in front of his field of vision, Argentum hastily skimmed through it, letting out a light chuckle as he could not help but say, ¡°I guess eating Animate meat has its perks.¡±

    ________

    [Fire Affinity] (Level 1/10)

    Grade: Mortal (C)

    A skill those who have a great affinity with the Fire element have. Normally, this skill is only avable to those born with an innate affinity towards them, but even other beings can obtain it once they are exposed to the Fire element for a long time. Due to the Ignis Kaiser Lion¡¯s great affinity with the Fire element, plus its high existence level whenpared to the user, the user¡¯s affinity with the Fire element had reached this level, giving the user a few special effects.

    > Efficacy of abilities based on the Fire element shall be increased by 20%

    > Damage of skills based on the Fire element shall be increased by 10%

    ________

    Closing the holographic screen in front of him, Argentum could not help but let out a sigh of satisfaction. Although the trials he had undergone were incredibly weird for an inheritance, the rewards it had given were no joke. To be honest, he was expecting to obtain these rewards at ater trial since in Aurus¡¯s memories, he had only obtained them after finishing the seventh trial or so. He did not know why he had obtained these rewards at an early trial, but he was kind of grateful for it in a way.

    ¡°I¡¯ve basically obtained all of the skills I wanted from the inheritance,¡± Argentum muttered to himself in a satisfied tone. ¡°Any other Fire-based reward I get from this inheritance will help me solidify my evolution choice in the future.¡±

    Coincidentally, just as he was finished saying these words, the disembodied voice of the inheritance resounded, telling Argentum, ¡°Since the inheritor has finished ingesting the five bs of meat, obtaining the trial¡¯s reward, the inheritance shall give the inheritor a ten-minute break to increase their affinity with the Fire element even further, which has something to do with the mechanics of the next trial.¡±

    ¡°Hm? That¡¯s a bit odd.¡± After processing the words said by the inheritance, Argentum could not help but find it odd that the inheritance wanted him to enhance the skill he had obtained from this trial. Sure, he did not find it odd when the inheritance told him to enhance his prowess with the [Lesser Fire Magic] skill since that was the first one he had heard of such a mechanic. But now that the inheritance was telling him to grind another skill this time, he could not help but feel that there was something a bit off with this inheritance.

    Either way, the rewards from the inheritance was still great, so he put this suspicion of his at the back of his mind before going ahead and following the inheritance¡¯s words, increasing his affinity with the Fire element with [Lower ze Magic+] since that¡¯s how his affinity with the Wind element increased.

    ¡°Two birds with one stone,¡± Argentum said with a slightly cheerful tone. ¡°I max out and increase the mastery level of [Lower ze Magic] while I increase the grade of [Fire Affinity] at the same time.¡±

    ¡°I wonder how high I can go before the third trial starts?¡±

    ¡­

    In a deeper part of the me Spirit Inheritance.

    The woman made out of mes radiated an aura of shock after witnessing what the Pseudo-Animate she was watching had done through the screen. She only came back to her senses at the very instant the Pseudo-Animate was finished cooking the five bs of meat to perfection.

    ¡°For a Wind-based Pseudo-Animate, it has such exquisite control over the Fire element¡­¡± she could not help but mutter in awe, feeling that the Pseudo-Animate¡¯s affinity with the Fire element gradually increased with each b of meat it ate. Although she knew that it was normal for a being¡¯s affinity with the Fire element to increase after ingesting the meat of an Ignis Kaiser Lion, she felt that the increase of the Pseudo-Animate¡¯s affinity with the Fire element.

    It was as if the increase in affinity was natural. That was what she felt.

    Getting this feeling from the Pseudo-Animate she was watching, she could not help but ponder as to why that was the case. After a few minutes or so, an answer appeared in her mind, which she thought was incredibly farfetched since she didn¡¯t know if it existed or not. But if she found out that her answer was actually half-correct, she would definitely be ted, giving the Pseudo-Animate on the screen even more rewards.

    ¡°Maybe it¡¯s a reincarnation of a previously dead Fire-based Pseudo-Animate,¡± she muttered to herself with slight doubt. ¡°That¡¯s the only probable reason thates to mind for a Pseudo-Animate like that toe here.¡±

    ¡°But does reincarnation exist in the first ce?¡± she asked herself this question, cing this in the back of her head not long after as she stretched her body once more before lying down on the ground in a rxed position. While keeping her sense of vision focused on the screen in front of her, she pondered over the trial she would have the Pseudo-Animate undergo through, as well as the rewards it would obtain once it clears it.

    ¡°Hmm¡­should I go and confirm whether or not this Pseudo-Animate is a reincarnation of a past Pseudo-Animate?¡± she muttered to herself as she thought out loud, thinking that if this Pseudo-Animate was truly a reincarnation of a past Fire-based Pseudo-Animate, it would be able to increase its affinity with the Fire element to a great degree within a short amount of time.

    In the end, she decided to push through with this idea, letting out a light chuckle as she infused a lot of her energy towards the screen, surprisingly changing the size of the room the Pseudo-Animate was in by a lot. Of course, she decided to dy this change to the time before the start of the third trial, thinking that she would shock the Pseudo-Animate if it came at a time where it was still increasing its affinity.

    ¡°Mhm! A trial like that would allow me to see how inclined it is towards the Fire element,¡± she said with glee. ¡°Should I go and inform it of the different types of fires as well?¡±

    ¡°Yeah, I guess I should,¡± she answered her question not long after, infusing a bit more energy into the screen, radiating an aura of happiness soon after that.

    ¡°As for the reward¡­¡± With the setting for the trial now done, she then pondered over the reward she was going to give to the Pseudo-Animate. Surprisingly, the reward she had in mind was rted to the thought of the Pseudo-Animate being a reincarnation of a past Fire-based Pseudo-Animate, grinning from ear to ear as she said, ¡°This reward is¡­hahaha!¡±

    ¡°If it finds out what reward it¡¯s getting¡­I¡¯m sure it¡¯ll be radiating an aura of intense joy!¡±

    ¡­

    Exactly ten minutes have passed since Argentum started grinding out both [Lower ze Magic+] and [Fire Affinity]. The results? Quite a great improvement.

    Within ten minutes, he was able to max out [Lower ze Magic+], unlocking a total of three spells from this grade, exactly the same number of spells he had unlocked from [Lower Tempest Magic+]. After testing out the new spells he had obtained, he let out a sigh of relief after finding out that the spells at this grade for [Lower ze Magic+] were different from [Lower Tempest Magic+]. If [Lower Tempest Magic+] had a movement boosting spell as its support spell, then [Lower ze Magic+] had an attack boosting spell. It went without saying that his mastery with the skill had increased as well, but it was not enough for it to reach the Adept level just yet.

    As for [Fire Affinity], it had evolved to the peak level achievable for Mortal level skills, the X-grade Mortal level. Its current name was [Superior Fire Affinity], increasing Argentum¡¯s affinity towards the Fire element by a great amount, as well as the damage a Fire-based skill would unleash. Of course, it still lost to his affinity towards the Wind element, with the skill that increased his affinity being at the Transcendent level already due to the amount of grinding he had done.

    Letting out a sigh of satisfaction after looking at his progress within ten minutes, Argentum was now prepared for the third trial from the inheritance, pondering as to what kind of trial he would have to undergo this time.

    Whoosh!

    Rumble¡­

    As the ground of the room shook, Argentum was soon teleported to one side of the room. At the very instant he appeared in that location, he looked around with slight confusion as he soon found out that the room¡­had turned into a corridor. Of course, it was no ordinary corridor for it was¡­

    An extremely long corridor. Definitely not ordinary.

    Fwoosh! Fwoosh!

    Quite some timeter, the sides of the corridor had transformed into red mes, prompting Argentum to head towards the center. Surprisingly, only a narrow strip of the center had not transformed into mes, making Argentum wonder as to what kind of trial this one was. He used his [Keen Vision] to look further into the corridor, noticing that after some point, the color of the mes surrounding the narrow strip of ground had changed. He also felt that the aura of the mes had intensified as well after the change in color.

    ¡°I can¡¯t see the end of the corridor,¡± Argentum said after he pushed [Keen Vision] to its limit, making him wonder how long the corridor truly was. Fortunately, just as he was about to start moving through the narrow strip of ground, the disembodied voice of the inheritance resounded throughout the corridor, exining the mechanics of the third trial.

    ¡°With the inheritor¡¯s ten-minute break now done, the inheritor shall now move on with the third trial, aptly named the Seven me Road. The corridor the inheritor is in spans a hundred kilometers, but that does not mean the inheritor must cross this 100 kilometers as fast as possible. As stated before, the inheritor¡¯s affinity towards the Fire element shall have something to do in this trial.¡±

    ¡°The higher the inheritor¡¯s affinity with the Fire element is, the farther they can go through this Seven me Road. Of course, that does not stop the inheritor from enhancing their affinity with the Fire element along the way. In fact, the inheritance encourages the user to do so. The goal of this trial is for the inheritor to reach the end of the corridor,¡± the disembodied voice continued to talk.

    ¡°Let the trial¡­begin!¡± After the disembodied voice was finished exining, it then signaled the start of the trial, leaving Argentum at a loss for words as he processed the exnation of the disembodied voice in his head. It took around a couple of minutes for Argentum to finally understand the mechanics of the trial, looking at the narrow strip of ground at the center of this seemingly unending corridor before going ahead and looking at the different colored mes from far away.

    After doing so, he then asked himself¡­

    ¡°If I¡¯m getting this right, the inheritance just wants me to¡­¡±

    ¡°Walk through this path to the end of the corridor¡­¡±

    ¡°¡­eh?¡±

 Chapter 229: Through the Fire and Flames

    Chapter 229: Through the Fire and mes

    ¡°Is the inheritance telling me to basically cross this narrow strip of ground until I reach the end of this seemingly unending corridor?¡± Argentum could not help but ask himself this question, slightly disbelieving that this was what he was supposed to do in this trial.

    ¡°I don¡¯t feel like there¡¯s a challenge to this,¡± he said not long after. ¡°Is there some sort of hidden reward wherein I need to cross this corridor as fast as I could muster?¡±

    ¡°If so, then I guess there¡¯s a bit more incentive to this trial,¡± he muttered as he went ahead and activated [Tempest Awakening] and [Zephyr Burst], the skills he had that boosted his movement speed to a greater degree. Not long after that, he then used his [Keen Vision] as he focused his sense of vision towards the different colored mes, proceeding to go ahead and walk through the narrow strip of ground at his maximum speed.

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    At the very instant he started to move through the narrow strip of ground, the disembodied voice of the inheritance resounded throughout the corridor, slightly startling Argentum as he wasn¡¯t expecting for the inheritance to talk at this moment. He could not help but mutter under his breath, ¡°I almost jumped into the mes.¡±

    Nevertheless, Argentum intently listened to the disembodied voice¡¯s words as it talked.

    ¡°The first me you shall be crossing through on this Seven me Road is the red-colored mes surrounding you at the moment. You might think that these mes are normal mes, which they are but aren¡¯t at the same time. In short, the mes surrounding you is the purest and strongest form of mes achievable for normal mes, its name being the Crimson Ruin mes,¡± the disembodied voice said.

    ¡°Since they¡¯re the purest and strongest form of mes achievable for normal mes, that means that multiple Animate mages that are inclined towards the Fire element have these type of mes,monly those from Rank 4 to Rank 6, with Rank 3 mages and below having weaker versions of the Crimson Ruin mes,¡± it added not long after.

    ¡°The defining characteristic of these Crimson Ruin mes is its ability to transform anything it touches into ashes. As for those with evil intent inside them, these Crimson Ruin mes can purify that evil intent, making it the go-to fire of novice priests and healers as well.¡± This was thest thing the disembodied voice said after it went silent. After processing the information given to him by the disembodied voice, Argentum could not help but say, ¡°I see¡­so the mes surrounding me are actually pretty strong mes.¡±

    ¡°Wait a second, why did the inheritance exin this to me?¡± Argentum soon asked himself this question, finding it slightly peculiar. ¡°It¡¯s not like I¡¯m going to use this information in the future or anythi¡ª¡±

    ¡°Ah.¡± It did not take long for Argentum to realize why the inheritance had done such a thing, although the reason he had in mind was quite different from what was originally intended. ¡°They know that this trial is going to be boring, so they¡¯re helping me pass the time by giving me facts regarding the mes that surround the path I¡¯m currently on.¡±

    ¡°I guess that¡¯s something to look forward to,¡± Argentum said to himself not long after as he let out a short sigh. He then muttered, ¡°Sometimes, I don¡¯t know if the inheritance is messing around with me, with this trial being great evidence of such antics.¡±

    Not long after, he realized that what he said was a mistake, correcting himself soon after as he said, ¡°Oh, right. This inheritance has been messing with me from the start. Is it because I¡¯m a Wind-based Pseudo-Animate or something?¡±

    ¡°Or perhaps¡­someone alive is manipting this inheritance just like the Inheritance Ruler in Area 52?¡± Argentum muttered after pondering over it, thinking that these types of trials would only be possible if the master of the inheritance is alive. Then again, he had no idea whether or not the master of this inheritance was alive, with Aurus¡¯s memories not confirming this idea as well.

    In the end, he ced this thought at the back of his head as he decided how he was going to pass the time while traveling through this narrow strip of ground. Surprisingly, it did not take long for Argentum to think up of an idea, with him lightly chuckling not long after as he muttered, ¡°I guess I¡¯ll sing some songs to pass the time.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯ll be hrious if the songs I sing are rted to the trial in a way,¡± Argentum added, letting out another chuckle as he rummaged through Aurus¡¯s memories, trying to find some songs that fit the trial. Fortunately, it seemed that Aurus¡¯s memories did contain a few songs that fit Argentum¡¯s requirements, eliciting an aura of tion from him as he let out a slight snigger.

    But after he rummaged through those specific memories even further, he could not help but be slightly sad as he found out that Aurus only remembered the choruses of these songs, with only a few songs in his memories beingpletely memorized.

    ¡°I guess the choruses were stuck inside his head. I don¡¯t me him though,¡± Argentum muttered not long after finding a few songs that fit the bill, taking a deep breath before going ahead and singing.

    ¡°I¡¯m on the highway to hell~¡±

    ¡°On the highway to hell~¡±

    If a person was listening to Argentum singing at this moment, they would probably cup their ears and scream to mask the sound. Unsurprisingly, Argentum¡¯s singing ability was pretty bad. If one was sugarcoating it, then they would say that Argentum¡¯s singing ability was subpar at best. Then again, Argentum was relying on the tune Aurus memorized while singing this song, trying to mimic it as close as possible.

    Perhaps, Aurus was the one with subpar singing ability?

    Nevertheless, this did not stop Argentum from singing this song as he zoomed through the Seven me Road, humming every once in a while as well.

    ¡­

    After about twenty minutes or so of incessant singing and humming to pass the time, Argentum had finally reached the end of the path that was surrounded by Crimson Ruin mes, continuing on the path that was surrounded by mes of a yellow hue. At the very instant Argentum entered this path, he could not help but feel that the mes surrounding the narrow strip of ground he was moving through had intensified in power and heat. Coincidentally, with the increased feeling of power and heat, he felt a bond to the yellow mes surrounding him, as if it was an extension of his limb in a way.

    Just as he was about to wonder whether the inheritance would exin the new type of mes surrounding him, the disembodied voice of the inheritance resounded throughout the corridor, prompting Argentum to tell himself, ¡°Ah. So the exnationes at the start of a new me. Got it.¡±

    ¡°The second me in this Seven me Road is called the Grand Erudinian mes, due to its origin being in the depths of Erudinian caves. Wielders of Grand Erudinian mes start at Rank 5, with Rank 6 and Rank 7monly having these mes. Some Rank 4 mages also wield these mes, but they only use them as trump cards,¡± the disembodied voice started exining.

    ¡°Unlike the Crimson Ruin mes, which need refining to reach its peak, these Grand Erudinian mes are already brimming with power, only needing the user to make its purpose specialized. Some users use these mes for mass destruction, while some use it for purification. Of course, that did not stop others from using it for healing, because human ingenuity.¡±

    ¡°The defining characteristic of these mes is that they could be artificially made as well, with the Crimson Ruin mes as its core. Though the cost is high, it would allow those types of mages to have a path of advancement in their minds. Then again, artificially made Grand Erudinian mes are weaker than natural Grand Erudinian mes, but that does not mean artificial Grand Erudinian mes cannot outperform natural ones after a lot of enhancement and refining.¡±

    ¡°This me is quite interesting,¡± Argentum could not help but say as hemitted the information to memory. Although he said that the reason why the inheritance was telling him about this information, it was still of some use to Argentum one way or another, having the feeling that he would use it once he became a Super Animate.

    Aftermitting the information to memory, he then pondered on what song he was going to sing this time while going through this path, eventually finding one that resonated with him quite well. Even though the message of the song was quite sad, Argentum sang it cheerfully.

    ¡°I walk a lonely road, the only ce that I have ever known~¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t know where it goes, but it¡¯s home to me and I walk alone~¡±

    ¡­

    After another 20 minutes or so, Argentum had finally passed through the path surrounded by Grand Erudinian mes, entering a path filled with orange mes this time. Of course, Argentum felt an increase in power and heat from these mes, but it was still something he could handle. Not only that, but the bond he felt from the mes had also grown even closer yet again.

    Naturally, since he had entered a part of the path surrounded by a new type of mes, the disembodied voice of the inheritance resounded throughout the corridor, giving Argentum some more useless information¡­for now.

    ¡°The third me in this Seven me Road is the yellow mes surrounding you as of this moment. These mes are the rarest type of mes in this continent, with the Undying me Spirit, the master of this inheritance, being one of the only beings in the continent that could handle such mes.¡±

    ¡°This me is called the Unworldly Sol me, due to it exhibiting properties of the sun that light the world of Erudinia, namely its heat and power. Normally, the Unworldly Sol me would kill millions of beings just from its indirect heat, with the inheritor dying just bying in close contact with it for a picosecond. Fortunately, the master of the inheritance has reduced its power to a great extent, allowing it to exude a stronger feeling than the Grand Erudinian mes while not letting the inheritor die from it. Note that the subsequent mes after this are far stronger than this one.¡±

    ¡°The most defining characteristic of this me is that it is near immortal. Even if tons of beings try to put it out with skills and spells of the Water element at the Rank 9 level, it would still continue to burn.¡±

    Committing the memory to mind, he then moved on and continued singing one of the two songs that he was singing a while ago.

    ¡­

    Surprisingly, due to him being distracted by his singing, it did not ur to Argentum that he had already reached the fourth me of the Seven me Road. Thankfully, the disembodied voice of the inheritance snapped him back to reality as it exined the white mes surrounding him at the moment.

    ¡°The fourth me in this Seven me Road is called the Lux Purity me, an incredibly strong me from the Vasterion continent, its power akin to a hundred Unworldly Sol mesbined. The master of the inheritance obtained this me through sheer luck after traveling through the Vasterion continent in the past, being gifted to her by a great pyromancer.¡±

    ¡°It is said that the master of this inheritance is the only one that can fully exhibit the me¡¯s properties in this continent, but beings in the other continents would be able to show its worth with just a small amount of power.¡±

    ¡°Its defining characteristic is its ability to manifest into a spiritual form, allowing the caster to not need to manually manipte them. It¡¯s a ¡®justmand them and you¡¯re done¡¯ sort of deal.¡±

    ¡°I can¡¯t help but feel like the exnation is getting more and more sloppy with every me I pass,¡± Argentum could not help but mutter, concluding that the inheritance did not have information on thesetter mes, leading to a somewhat sloppy exnation.

    After getting to that answer, he then moved on through the path, reaching the fifth me after another twenty minutes or so.

    ¡­

    Eventually, Argentum had reached the end of the corridor, with the disembodied voice of the inheritance exining thest three mes to him in the best manner possible. Although the information the inheritance had on these mes were quitecking, he stillmitted these thoughts into his memory, with him wondering for a bit if the me Charisa had was one of thetter mes in this Seven mes.

    ¡°Samsara Phoenix mes¡­mes that flicker between ck and white¡­¡± Argentum muttered to himself. ¡°Once I¡¯m done with this trip, I¡¯ll probably go ask Charisa about this since Aurus is still in the process of evolving.¡±

    ¡°Nevertheless, I¡¯m finally done with this trial.¡± Argentum let out a sigh of relief after seeing the great space after the seventh me, filled to the brim with the ground he was moving through a while ago. A few secondster, the mes behind him had disappeared as the corridor eventually shrunk back to therge stone room he was in before. This phenomenon made Argentum ponder over the power the inheritance had.

    Not long after that, the disembodied voice of the inheritance, which used to tell him information regarding the mes on the Seven me Road, was now telling him the rewards he had obtained from the third trial, making Argentum radiate an aura of tion once more.

    ¡°The inheritor has sessfully reached the end of the corridor, thuspleting the Seven me Road,¡± the disembodied voice said to Argentum. ¡°Due to the inheritor crossing the Seven me Road in less than 12 hours, the inheritor has increased the quality of the reward given to them.¡±

    Ding!

    Hearing the notification sound resound in his mind just as the disembodied voice told him about the reward being enhanced, the aura radiating from Argentum had intensified once more, seemingly reaching the epitome of tion. It did not take long for Argentum to open up the notification screen and read thetest notification after that. But at the very instant he was finished reading through it, he went silent, only uttering a sound a few secondster.

    ¡°¡­eh?¡±

    ¡®You have obtained the active skill [me Incarnation: Undying Spirit].¡¯

 Chapter 230: The Great Flame Hunt

    Chapter 230: The Great me Hunt

    Ding!

    ¡®You have obtained the active skill [me Incarnation: Undying Spirit].¡¯

    Reading through thetest notification he had received, instead of having the ted aura surrounding him a while ago, it was instead reced with an aura of immense confusion, prompting him to close and open his sense of vision a few times as he uttered out a single sound.

    ¡°¡­eh?¡± Argentum truly had nothing to say about the skill he had just obtained as a reward from the inheritance. The two previous skills he had obtained from the inheritance made him incredibly ted since he knew what their functions were. As for this skill he had just received, he truly had no choice what it did, so he was on the fence in terms of his excitement.

    ¡°me Incarnation¡­¡± he muttered not long after as he pondered on what the effect of the skill would be. It did not take long for a usible answer to appear in his mind as he muttered to himself, his aura changing to that of tion, ¡°Does this skill increases my stats and damage once I be the incarnation of mes?¡±

    Thinking that that might be the case, he went ahead andmanded the system to open up the description of the skill, radiating an aura of expectation in the process. A few secondster, a holographic screen appeared in front of his field of vision, which Argentum hastily skimmed through not long after. Unfortunately for him, although the skill¡¯s name sounded like it would do the thing he had imagined, in reality, it was quite different from what he had expected.

    ¡°¡­eh?¡± he uttered yet again, slightly confused and disappointed at the effects of the active skill.

    ________

    [me Incarnation: Undying Spirit] (Level 1/10)

    Grade: Mortal (C)

    MP Cost: 10 MP per second

    A skill that allows the user to transform their body into a burst of mes in exchange for MP. This skill allows the user to attune themselves to the Fire energy particles surrounding them in a better manner, allowing Fire-based skills and spells to have increased effectiveness. Due to the improvement the master of the me Spirit Inheritance has done on this skill, the amount of MP needed to maintain the skill for every second has been reduced while its efficacy has been increased. Not only that, but it allows the user to heal a set amount of HP per second as well.

    > Transforms the user into a burst of mes

    > When in transformed mode: Increases the effectiveness of Fire-based abilities by 10%

    > When in transformed mode: Increases the damage of Fire-based abilities by 10%

    > When in transformed mode: Heals 5% of the user¡¯s HP every 5 seconds

    ________

    Closing the holographic screen in front of his field of vision, he could not help but let out a sigh, somewhat disappointed at the skill given to him. [Lower ze Magic+] allowed him to cast magic of the Fire element, while [Fire Affinity] increased his affinity towards the Fire element. As for this skill, it only allowed him to transform into a burst of mes, giving him a few buffs that increased the power of Fire-based skills as well, but that¡¯s it. With that in mind, he could not help but ponder whether the inheritance was trying to make rely on the Fire element even more to deal damage.

    ¡°Wait a second¡­that actually makes a bit of sense.¡± Not long after this thought surfaced in his mind, Argentum could not help but think that his thought process was wrong. Ultimately, the purpose of this inheritance was to increase thebat power of those that were biased towards the Fire element, not to increase the number of elements one could use unlike what Argentum was trying to do. Changing his mindset to that of a Fire-based Pseudo-Animate, he could now appreciate the buffs it gave for Fire-based abilities.

    Then again, he still thought about the skill¡¯s usefulness from a general perspective, thinking that it was a great way for him to disguise himself, fooling that there were following him due to him being a Wind-based Pseudo-Animate. After being satisfied with the answer he made in his mind, he could not help but ponder as to what the next trial would be. Thinking about for it a bit, Argentum let out a light chuckle before saying, ¡°Before the next trial starts, the inheritance would go ahead and tell me to grind thetest skill I obtained from the inheritance, saying that it has something to do with the mechanics of the next trial.¡±

    Coincidentally, just as he was finished saying that, the disembodied voice of the inheritance resounded once more, informing Argentum regarding the next trial he was going to undergo. After listening to the disembodied voice¡¯s words, the only thing that Argentum was, ¡°I can¡¯t believe it. I was actually right.¡±

    ¡°The inheritance shall give the inheritor a ten-minute break to increase their proficiency with the skill they had obtained. The inheritance encourages the inheritor to enhance it as much as possible in preparation for the fourth trial since the skill is a crucial part of the trial itself.¡± This was what the disembodied voice said.

    ¡°To think that my guess was head-on.¡± Argentum still could not believe the fact that he was right about the inheritance informing him that he would have to go through the same process again in preparation for the fourth trial. Fortunately, it did not take long for him toe to his senses, letting out a sigh as he muttered to himself, ¡°Alright then. I guess I¡¯ll grind this skill as much as possible.¡±

    ¡°[me Incarnation: Undying Spirit]!¡±

    Fwoosh!

    ¡­

    In a deeper part of the me Spirit Inheritance.

    The woman made out of mes let out a surprised gasp as she looked at the Wind-based Pseudo-Animate get to the end of the corridor without much trouble through the screen in front of her. The surprise she felt from such a feat was enough for her to sit upright, her idea from before blossoming into something more corporeal as she muttered, ¡°It crossed the Seven me Road without a problem, it even went ahead and decided to some songs along the way.¡±

    ¡°If that¡¯s not a reincarnation of a Pseudo-Animate, then I don¡¯t know what is,¡± she muttered not long after, sending in a strand of energy through the screen to give the Pseudo-Animate its reward as she announced the Pseudo-Animate clearing the third trial with flying colors. At the very instant the Pseudo-Animate had received the skill, she could not help but have great expectations, thinking that the Pseudo-Animate was going to be incredibly happy since it was going to be able to transform into something rted to mes again.

    But what she got instead was the opposite, with the Pseudo-Animate radiating an aura of confusion at the instant it had received the skill. Not only that, but the confusion she felt radiating from the Pseudo-Animate was almost corporeal, prompting her to doubt her thoughts as she asked herself, ¡°The Pseudo-Animate isn¡¯t happy getting a skill like this? Is this really a reincarnation of a Pseudo-Animate?¡±

    A few secondster, these thoughts were soon reced with optimistic thoughts as she muttered, thinking out loud, ¡°I¡¯m pretty sure the Pseudo-Animate is just used to its new element, that¡¯s all. Once it gets a feeling of being immersed in the Fire element once more, I¡¯m definitely sure that it won¡¯t hesitate to stay in that form for a long time.¡±

    Fwoosh!

    After a minute or so, the Pseudo-Animate she was looking at through the screen had activated the skill it had just received, instantly captivating her as she was inplete awe over how natural the feeling the transformation felt. Due to the sheer awe she felt, she subconsciously muttered, ¡°A reincarnation indeed¡­how would a Wind-based Pseudo-Animate be able to achieve such a natural feeling transformation¡­?¡±

    Looking at the Pseudo-Animate¡¯s current form for a few minutes, she eventually came back to her senses, standing up before going ahead and stretching her body once more to clear her mind. After doing so, she then manipted the screen to move to her eye level before pondering on what kind of trial she would have the Pseudo-Animate do next. Unsurprisingly, thinking that the Pseudo-Animate was just getting used to the new form, she decided to have the trial be rted to the skill it had just received once more, not taking long toe up with a trial in her mind that fit her requirements.

    After deciding on the fourth trial, she then pondered over the reward she was going to give to the Pseudo-Animate, thinking up of a skill that would be beneficial to the Pseudo-Animate even if it was not in its current form. It did not take long for her to remember a skill that fit the bill, muttering to herself with a slightly cheerful tone, ¡°This Pseudo-Animate might be incredibly lonely at times. I should give it a skill that allows it to have apanion.¡±

    ¡°Anyways, I¡¯m d I could participate in this fourth trial as well,¡± she said not long after as she let out a chuckle. ¡°I just got to make sure that the Pseudo-Animate doesn¡¯t find out that it¡¯s me, and give it feeling that it would be found out at any time.¡±

    ¡°Of course, since it¡¯s a Pseudo-Animate, I¡¯ll let it win the trial without a problem~¡±

    ¡­

    Just like before, exactly ten minutes have passed since Argentum started grinding thetest skill he had received from the inheritance. Surprisingly, an aura of cheerfulness exuded from him as his form was currently the Fire element version of his normal look. Instead of a humanoid body made out of green energy, he was instead a humanoid body made out of red energy. Then again, there was something that distinguished his usual form from his current form, and that was the mes on top of his head that looked like hair.

    ¡°Who knew this skill would actually increase me Affinity¡¯s experience?¡± he muttered to himself in slight awe, feeling that the connection he felt towards the Fire element had be even stronger than before, probably because [me Affinity] had finally reached the Transcendent level, taking on the name of [Grand me Affinity].

    As for the incarnation skill he had obtained from thest trial, it had naturally reached its maximum level, increasing the power of the skill even further as its mastery level was almost close to the Basic level. Nevertheless, the feeling he felt from the skill had improved from before, making him feel that if he used a Fire-based spell, it would be more effective than if he used it on this skill¡¯s first level.

    Of course, since ten minutes were now up, the disembodied voice of the inheritance resounded throughout therge stone room, prompting Argentum to focus his sense of hearing towards the voice as he maintained his current form.

    ¡°The inheritor¡¯s ten-minute break is now done, prompting the inheritance to move on with its fourth trial,¡± the disembodied voice said. ¡°The name of the fourth trial is¡­¡±

    ¡°The Great me Hunt.¡±

    ¡°Ooh, what an interesting name,¡± Argentum could not help but say as he listened to the disembodied voice talk about the name of the trial.

    Fwoosh!

    A few secondster, therge stone room Argentum was in had instantly transformed into a room filled to the brim with mes of the same color as his body. Not long after that, Argentum felt a whirlpool of energy forming on another portion of the room, prompting him to use his [Keen Vision] to get a better look at it. What he saw was the whirlpool of energy condensing into arge mass of mes, which soon transformed into a small humanoid body soon after.

    After the small humanoid body was formed, the disembodied voice resounded throughout the room once more, this time exining the mechanics of the trial.

    ¡°There is one me Reconnaissance Spirit in the room the inheritor is currently in, while the room is covered entirely in mes of the same color the inheritor¡¯s current form is. The Reconnaissance Spirit shall try to detect the inheritor¡¯s presence as fast as possible,¡± the disembodied voice started to exin. ¡°The goal of this trial is for the inheritor is to avoid the Reconnaissance Spirit¡¯s detection for 5 minutes, using the mes to the inheritor¡¯s advantage. If the Reconnaissance Spirit finds the inheritor in less than 5 minutes, the inheritor loses. The inheritor could also opt to touch the back of the Reconnaissance Spirit to win the trial in less than 5 minutes, but it is quite tricky.¡±

    ¡°¡­¡± Listening to the exnation of the disembodied voice and processing it in his mind, Argentum was at a loss for words as he knew what this trial truly was. Ignoring the fact that Argentum was speechless, the disembodied voice said, ¡°Let the trial begin!¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll count up to 30 to let you escape from my detection, Inheritor¡­for now,¡± the Reconnaissance Spirit, which was the one Argentum saw on the other side of the room, started to talk in a childlike voice. ¡°Once I¡¯ve counted up to 30, I¡¯ll start using all of my abilities to find you.¡±

    ¡°1¡­2¡­3¡­¡±

    Listening to the Reconnaissance Spirit start to count, Argentum could not help but let out a sigh as he unhesitatingly activated his polymorph, transforming into a speck of red sand that blended in with the surroundings very well. Suppressing his presence to its utmost limit, he gradually made his way towards the Reconnaissance Spirit, slightly surprised that he was able to get close to it without it noticing he was near it.

    As the Reconnaissance Spirit continued to count, Argentum could not help but inwardly let out a sigh as he thought to himself, ¡®A Reconnaissance Spirit counting up to 30¡­trying to find me with its detection¡­¡¯

    ¡®Needing me to escape its detection for at least 5 minutes¡­¡¯

    ¡®What else could this be¡­¡¯

    ¡®If not a game of hide and seek?¡¯

 Chapter 231: Undying Flame Spirit

    Chapter 231: Undying me Spirit

    Knowing that it was more or less a game of hide and seek, Argentum decided to go ahead and clear the trial in the fastest way as possible as stated by the inheritance, which was to touch the back of the Reconnaissance Spirit. Although he was already near the Reconnaissance Spirit at this moment and could touch its back at any time, he still decided to hold back since the Reconnaissance Spirit was still counting up to 30. He had a feeling that he would be punished by the inheritance if he decided to go and touch the Reconnaissance Spirit¡¯s back before it was counting.

    And so, it waited. Fortunately, it did not take long for the Reconnaissance Spirit to count up to 30, deciding to hasten its counting of 20 and above by a few notches as an aura of excitement radiated from the Reconnaissance Spirit. Not long after, it then imitated the sound of an Animate clearing their throat as it shouted in its childlike voice, ¡°Ready or not, Inheritor, here Ie!¡±

    Step. Step. Step.

    At the very instant Argentum was about to go ahead and revert to his me incarnation form to touch the Reconnaissance Spirit¡¯s back, he instead stopped in his tracks and watched the Reconnaissance Spirit start to walk through therge stone area as he could not help but think that the way the Reconnaissance Spirit walked was kind of cute. The cuteness he felt from it had intensified to an extent that he radiated an aura, but he hurriedly suppressed this aura, continuing to look at the Reconnaissance Spirit from a decent distance.

    ¡°Where are you?¡± the Reconnaissance Spirit said as it used the full extent of its sense of vision to search for Argentum, not knowing that he was just behind it. Since it was oblivious to where Argentum was, it continued to walk throughout the area, its manner of walking akin to a young child that was strutting, which would make adults look at the child with smiles on their faces. Of course, Argentum was looking at the Reconnaissance Spirit with a ¡®smile on his face¡¯ as well, radiating an aura of happiness, which he suppressed to a great degree as he maintained a decent distance between him and the Reconnaissance Spirit.

    For the first two minutes or so, the Reconnaissance Spirit strutted through the room, asking Argentum where he was every once in a while. Seeing this made Argentum feel a sense of therapeutic calm, feeling that everything was going to be alright in the world. But then, by the third minute started, the Reconnaissance Spirit lost a bit of its confidence, its back slightly arched as its voice when calling out for Argentum had a hint of desperation in it. Not only that, but Argentum could also hear a hint of sadness from it, as if it was going to cry at any time.

    Once the fourth minute came, the Reconnaissance Spirit lost all of its confidence to try and find Argentum since it wasn¡¯t able to do so, sitting down on the floor and sniffling, which eventually turned into crying as it wailed, ¡°Where are you, Inheritor? Sniff sniff¡­I want to see you¡­¡±

    ¡°Please tell me you¡¯re still here, Inheritor,¡± the Reconnaissance Spirit continued to wail, its tone filled with desperation and intense longing for Argentum. A few secondster, all of the desperation was soon reced with intense longing, its crying intensified as it said, ¡°Don¡¯t tell me¡­you¡¯re not here¡­?¡±

    Tap.

    ¡°¡­eh?¡± Just as the Reconnaissance Spirit¡¯s crying was about to reach a new level, it felt a tap on its back, prompting it to turn its sense of vision around. Once it did so, it saw Argentum in his me incarnation form. He looked at the crying Reconnaissance Spirit and said, ¡°No need to cry anymore. I¡¯m here.¡±

    ¡°You finally revealed yourself, Inheritor!¡± Instead of obtaining a heartwarming response from the Reconnaissance Spirit, Argentum instead obtained a cheerful response from the Reconnaissance Spirit as it stood up with glee. The feeling he felt from the Reconnaissance Spirit at this moment was quite conflicted, eventually letting out a sigh as he sorted his emotions out.

    ¡°This is an inheritance after all. They can also use our emotions to our advantage,¡± Argentum muttered to himself, letting out a light chuckle not long after. He then scratched his head and looked at the Reconnaissance Spirit once more. He then went ahead and asked, ¡°So¡­did I clear the trial?¡±

    ¡°Yep!¡± the Reconnaissance Spirit replied to his question in a cheerful tone, the mncholic aura surrounding it a while ago now gone. Not long after, it said to Argentum, ¡°Wait for a bit, okay? The reward shall being to you very soon!¡±

    After saying those words, the Reconnaissance Spirit went ahead and ran towards one of the walls of therge stone room, eliciting a response from Argentum, telling the Reconnaissance Spirit to be careful. Fortunately, just as the Reconnaissance Spirit was going to collide with the wall, it instantly transformed into a mass of Fire energy particles as it dissipated into thin air not long after.

    Seeing this transformation, Argentum could not help but scratch his head yet again as he let out an awkward chuckle.

    ¡°Ah, right. That Reconnaissance Spirit is made by the inheritance,¡± Argentum said to himself.

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    After the Reconnaissance Spirit disappeared from therge stone room Argentum was in, the mes that were of the same color as Argentum¡¯s me incarnation form, which covered the whole room, disappeared into thin air as well, prompting Argentum to revert to his original form after that.

    Around a minute after that, the disembodied voice of the inheritance resounded throughout the room, informing Argentum of the rewards he had obtained from the trial.

    ¡°The inheritor has sessfully avoided the detection of the me Reconnaissance Spirit in the Great me Hunt. Not only that, but the inheritor has also touched the back of the me Reconnaissance Spirit, thus enhancing the quality of the rewards obtained.¡± This was what the disembodied voice said to Argentum, eliciting a response of slight doubt from him. The first time the inheritance told him that his reward from the trial was enhanced, he obtained a skill that allowed him to transform into a burst of mes. Although it did increase the experience of [Grand me Affinity] passively and increased the power of Fire-based skills, that was all.

    Ding!

    Hearing the notification sound resound in his mind, he could not help but mutter to himself, ¡°I have a bad feeling about this skill I¡¯m getting.¡±

    Not long after saying those words, he then opened up the notification screen in his mind and read through thetest notification he had received. Surprisingly, he was at a loss for words yet again, just like how he was at a loss for words when he obtained that me incarnation skill.

    But there was something different.

    This time, Argentum radiated an aura of curiosity and slight enthusiasm to use the skill he had received. Reading the name of the skill alone, he could not help but mutter to himself in a slightly excited tone, thinking out loud, ???If this skill is what I think it is, then can I consider myself someone who has an Ally of his own?¡±

    ¡®You have obtained the skill [me Companion].¡¯

    From the word ¡®Companion¡¯ on the skill¡¯s name, Argentum instinctively thought that the skill he had obtained was quite simr to the Ally feature Aurus had, which boosted his stats to incredible degrees while giving him ess to a few of his Allies¡¯ skills as well.

    ¡®Now that I think about it¡­why am I not affected by the Ally skills Aurus¡¯s Allies have?¡¯ Argentum thought to himself as he thought about the Ally feature. ¡®I may not have ess to the Genesis Seed System and the Soul Enchantment System, but I do have ess to the Ally System.¡¯

    ¡°Weird,¡± Argentum said to himself not long after, deciding to talk about it with Aurus once he finishes evolving. Realizing that his train of thought had gone off-course, Argentum unhesitatingly went ahead andmanded the system to bring up the description of the skill he had just obtained.

    Ding!

    It did not take long for the system to respond to hismand, a holographic screen appeared in front of his field of vision not long after. Hastily skimming through it, it did not take long for Argentum to formte an opinion on the skill.

    ¡°In short, an Ally, but more independent¡­in a way,¡± was what he said.

    ________

    [me Companion] (Level 1/10)

    Grade: Mortal (C)

    MP Cost: 200 MP

    A skill that allows the user to create apanion made out of Fire energy particles. Thispanion fully obeys themands of the user, and has their own intelligence to make decisions when the user decides to give them broadmands. Note that the method of enhancement for thispanion is for the user to fight its own battles and obtain experience. The user only has to dictate what path of evolution it takes.

    > Number of summonablepanions: 1

    > Maximum number ofpanions: 1

    Note: Increasing the level and grade of this skill enhances the base stat of thepanion.

    ________

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡± Argentum pondered over the possible uses of the skill, thinking that this skill allowed him to have a real pet in a way. Not only that, but he also thought that such apanion would be a great meat shield in fights as well.

    ¡°No wait, I might have to raise them from scratch again if I did that.¡± Thinking that thest idea he had in mind was actually bad, he discarded it and thought up of more possible uses for the skill, eventuallying to the conclusion that he would definitely not regret raising such a skill to a high level since it would allow him to create an army ofpanions that would obey his everymand in the future.

    ¡°Now that I think about it, would the system be able to keep them inside itself?¡± Just as he was about to end his thinking session regarding the purpose of the skill, a thought suddenly shed in mind, making him wonder as to whether he could keep hispanions in the system just like how Aurus kept his Allies in the system. With that in mind, he went ahead and asked the system whether or not it was possible, and surprisingly, it said yes.

    With all of his questions answered for now, Argentum now eagerly waited for the disembodied voice to resound throughout the room and inform him about the mechanics of the next trial. But for some reason, even after a few minutes of waiting, the disembodied voice did not resound at all, making Argentum wonder as to whether or not this was the end of the trial. Nevertheless, he still decided to wait for the disembodied voice to start speaking, even though he was a bit worried.

    Fortunately, his waiting led to fruition as an opening appeared on one of the walls of the stone room, leading to a corridor wherein its end led to a roomrger than the one Argentum was currently in. Utilizing his [Keen Vision], it did not take long for Argentum to find out that the room radiated an intense aura of the Fire element, slightly feeling ufortable, which somewhat surprised him.

    But what happened next surprised him even more. At the very instant an opening on one of the walls appeared, the disembodied voice resounded throughout the room, informing Argentum of what he had to do next. After listening to the disembodied voice¡¯s instructions and processing it in his mind many times, the only thing that came out of his mouth was¡­

    ¡°Huh?¡±

    ¡°The inheritor has finished the four trials of the inheritance with flying colors. Due to this achievement, the master of the me Spirit Inheritance, the one who has obtained the moniker of ¡®Undying me Spirit¡¯, has decided to allow the inheritor to meet with them in person.¡±

    ¡°Not only that, but the Undying me Spirit has decided to grant one of the inheritor¡¯s wishes as well once the inheritor passes through the corridor,¡± the disembodied voice added.

    The disembodied voice needed to repeat its words a few times in order for Argentum to understand that he was not hearing it wrongly at all, filling Argentum with a ton of questions regarding the me Spirit Inheritance he had just undergone. One of the questions he had in mind was regarding the wish he wanted the master of the inheritance to grant.

    As for the other question he had in mind¡­

    ¡°The master of this inheritance was actually alive?¡± Argentum muttered to himself in a disbelieving tone as he passed through the corridor, entering therge room where the master of the me Spirit Inheritance was in.

    Fwoosh! Fwoosh!

    At the very instant Argentum had entered this room, a woman made out of mes, who had the right curves at the right ces, appeared in front of Argentum, radiating an aura of happiness and tion, which Argentum slightly found peculiar.

    ¡°Hello there, Pseudo-Animate!¡± the woman in mes said to Argentum in a cheerful tone. ¡°I¡¯m the master of the me Spirit Inheritance. You can call me the Undying me Spirit. As for my real name¡­¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s¡­a¡­secret~¡±

    ¡°Er¡­hi there, I guess,¡± Argentum said in a slightly stiff fashion, finding it odd that the master of an inheritance would talk to him in this way.

    ¡°Can I know your name, Pseudo-Animate?¡± the woman in mes asked Argentum not long after before adding, ¡°Oh, it¡¯s alright if you don¡¯t want to tell me. I understand~¡±

    ¡°My name is Argentum,¡± Argentum unhesitatingly answered the Undying me Spirit¡¯s question, intensifying the aura of happiness that surrounded her. Not long after, this aura was reced with curiosity as Argentum asked her, ¡°Uh¡­I have a question.¡±

    ¡°Hm? Go ahead and ask!¡± the Undying me Spirit said in response to his question.

    Seeing that he had the consent of the Undying me Spirit, Argentum went ahead and took in a deep breath as the aura surrounding him turned to that of slight rage. He then focused his sense of vision towards her before asking, ¡°You bitch, are you trying to turn me into a y toy or something? Do you get a kick out of making me look like a fool in those trials, huh?¡±

    As for the Undying me Spirit¡¯s response to Argentum¡¯s question, it was¡­

    ¡°¡­¡±

    ¡°¡­¡±

    ¡°¡­eh?¡±

 Chapter 232: Gaining Enlightenment

    Chapter 232: Gaining Enlightenment

    XXXX Continent, Seraph Kingdom, Arcana Tower.

    ¡°To be honest, I would like to meet up with the Ninth Prince,¡± Erea responded to her mentor¡¯s question, eding to his request as she let out a light giggle. She then pondered over something for a bit before asking Dane, ¡°Also, I have a lot of questions I would like to ask the prince. Would that be fine, Teacher?¡±

    ¡°Would that be fine¡­?¡± Dane repeated Erea¡¯s words in a muttering fashion before going ahead and closing his eyes. He then started to mutter a few unintelligible incantations for a short while before opening his eyes once more and looking at Erea. He then nodded at her before answering her question, saying, ¡°I¡¯ve just gotten in contact with the Ninth Prince and asked him if it was fine. He told me that it was fine, seeing as you¡¯re a member of his team anyway.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m d to hear that,¡± Erea replied to her mentor¡¯s response before letting out a slight grin. She then went ahead and asked him, ¡°So¡­when are we going to meet the Ninth Prince?¡±

    Although she was quite eager to meet the Ninth Prince right now so she could get the meeting over with and remove all of the doubts in her mind regarding the war for the throne, which she only joined due to her mentor asking her to join, the time at which she and her mentor would go to where the Ninth Prince was would still be up to her mentor since she did not have any authority to go in the pce of the kingdom, unlike her mentor.

    A week of wait time was fine for her, a month even. With this in mind, she followed up on her question, saying, ¡°It¡¯s fine if it¡¯ll be a week from now or a month from now, Teacher. I know you¡¯re incredibly busy and all that¡­¡±

    ¡°Eh?¡± Listening to his student¡¯s words, Dane could not help but look at her with a slightly confused expression. It took a few seconds of processing in his mind for him to understand why she would say such words, letting out a light chuckle not long after. He then went ahead and told her, ¡°We¡¯re going to meet the Ninth Prince right now.¡±

    ¡°Right now?¡± Hearing her mentor¡¯s response, Erea was inwardly ted since she would get the meeting over with, but at the same time, she could not help but be a bit worried since she had a feeling that her mentor was postponing all of the work he needed to do today just so she could meet up with the prince. ¡°Teacher, you don¡¯t have to force the meeting to be today. Aren¡¯t you really busy today?¡±

    ¡°Busy?¡± Daneughed at Erea¡¯s question, but still felt the concern from it. He went ahead and patted Erea¡¯s head before saying, ¡°Normally, I would be incredibly busy, but I¡¯ve already finished all of the work I needed to do for this week, so I¡¯m more or less free for the whole week.¡±

    Dane said this to let Erea be at ease, letting her know that she wasn¡¯t consuming his time at all. In fact, what he said was true. Since he was more or less the advisor of the Ninth Prince, he made it a habit to finish all of his work rted to the Arcana Tower as fast as possible, allowing him to use his free time however he wanted, may it be studying new types of magic, creating new types of magic, helping out the Ninth Prince in some of his matters, or even¡­having a pleasurable time.

    ¡®Note to self: Make sure to check whether or not Erea wants to see me before engaging in those activities again,¡¯ Dane reminded himself in his mind, slightly feeling embarrassed that he was caught in the act.

    Having the feeling that he was not lying in a way, Erea decided to trust her mentor¡¯s words, saying, ¡°If you say so, Teacher.¡±

    ¡°How are we going to head to the pce, Teacher?¡± she soon asked Dane before adding, ¡°Even if we rely on movement boosting spells, as well as flight spells, it would take us about 3 hours or so to get there due to the distance between the tower and the pce. By then, the sun would be setting, and we wouldn¡¯t be able to enter the pce until the next day.¡±

    ¡°You shouldn¡¯t have to worry about that,¡± Dane replied to Erea¡¯s words with a slight grin on his face. He then told Erea, ¡°Hold onto my robe. Make sure to hold onto it very tight.¡±

    ¡°Er¡­¡± Although Erea was a bit skeptical as to why her mentor decided to ask her to hold onto his robe all of a sudden, she still followed her mentor¡¯s orders, using both of her hands to grasp on his red robe tightly. She then asked him, ¡°What¡¯s next, Teacher?¡±

    ¡°Hehehe.¡± Dane let out a light chuckle after hearing Erea¡¯s question. ¡°Although I¡¯m your teacher in this tower, I haven¡¯t shown you my full power that often, right?¡±

    ¡°What¡¯s with the question, Teacher?¡± Erea asked in response to Dane¡¯s question, not knowing what her mentor¡¯s train of thought was. Nevertheless, she responded to his question after that, saying, ¡°But that is true. You¡¯ve only shown your full power a few times in front of me, Teacher.¡±

    ¡°Now what if I told you¡­¡± Dane said to Erea after that in a mysterious tone, making Erea quite curious.

    ¡°That those times, I wasn¡¯t even serious about going all out?¡±

    ¡°Huh? What does that have to do with¡ª¡± Listening to her mentor¡¯s words, Erea could not help but think that her mentor was just exaggerating the amount of power he held, only for her to shut up as she felt a great wave of energy radiating out of her mentor¡¯s body. The intensity of this wave felt like a tsunami for her. If she was not grasping onto her mentor¡¯s robe tightly, she had a feeling that she would probably fall unconscious.

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    A few secondster, a great number of ck particles manifested inside Dane¡¯s room, almost making it seem like the room was pitch-ck. These ck particles then went ahead and congregated towards Dane¡¯s body, and not long after, Erea¡¯s body as well.

    ¡°What the¡­Space energy particles?¡± At the very instant the ck particles congregated around Erea¡¯s body, she instantly felt the immense energy of space radiating from them, even though she had no inclination towards the Space element. As for Dane, hearing Erea¡¯s surprised shout, he let out a chuckle and said, ¡°This spell is something I can only use as long as it¡¯s important. Don¡¯t you think this is an important time?¡±

    Just as Erea was about to say that she would be fine with traveling to the pce through the usage of flight and movement boosting spells, Dane left her no time to do so as he shouted, ¡°5th Circle!¡±

    ¡°[Greater Teleport]!¡±

    Fwoosh!

    At the very instant Dane was finished saying the name of the spell, the two of them had disappeared from his room not long after. As for the Space energy particles that manifested inside his room, they all disappeared at the instant the two were gone as well, making it seem like the two weren¡¯t in here in the first ce.

    ¡­

    Fwoosh!

    A few seconds after the two of them had teleported out of Dane¡¯s room, the two of them appeared in front of the gates that led to the royal pce of the Seraph Kingdom, instantly making the guards, which vigntly guarded the gates of the pce, be more vignt as they moved into a battle stance, pointing the halberds they were holding a while ago towards Dane and Erea.

    ¡°Who goes there?! State your name and purpose!¡± One of the guards shouted towards the two of them, to which Dane responded by looking at the person who shouted after he dusted off his robe. Snapping his fingers to reveal the golden leaves on his robe, he then cleared his throat before saying, ¡°I haven¡¯t done this before thest time I came here, so I would like to apologize to the guards.¡±

    ¡°Dane Grossezauber, Rank 4 High Mage, Educator and Battle Mage of the Arcana Tower,¡± Dane said not long after that before going ahead and pointing at Erea, who was slightly afraid of the halberds pointed at them. ¡°As for the young woman beside me, she¡¯s Erea Magimillia, a newly advanced Rank 3 mage.¡±

    ¡°We¡¯vee here to meet up with the Ninth Prince. Would you allow us to do so?¡± Dane then asked the guards surrounding them with a smile, eliciting a slightly awkward response from the guards as they slowly retracted their halberds, realizing that they were pointing their halberds at someone who had a high position in the Arcana Tower.

    As for the guard who shouted at them a while ago, he scratched his face before letting out an awkward chuckle, responding to Dane¡¯s words by saying, ¡°I apologize for pointing our halberds at you, Sir Grossezauber. It¡¯s just that we haven¡¯t been informed of your sudden arrival.¡±

    ¡°I understand. You guys are just doing your jobs.¡± Dane smiled in response to the guard¡¯s words. ¡°So¡­could we enter the pce?¡±

    ¡°Please give me a second, Sir,¡± the guard responded to Dane¡¯s question as he closed his eyes for a bit, muttering a few unintelligible incantations in the process. At the very instant the guard opened his eyes, a light smile was stered on his face as he responded, ¡°We¡¯ve obtained clearance from the Ninth Prince. You two can head inside. We truly apologize for the inconvenience.¡±

    ¡°No worries, no worries.¡± Dane let out a light chuckle after hearing the guard apologize to him one more time. Telling Erea to follow him, the two of them eventually went inside the royal pce through the gates, which were hastily opened by the guards after confirming their intent.

    Crash!

    At the very instant the two of them were able to enter the pce, therge pce gates behind them were instantly closed, slightly startling Erea as she took in the beautiful surroundings of the pce as she followed behind Dane, gradually making their way towards where the Ninth Prince was.

    As they walked along the official paths of the pce, Erea could not help but hasten her steps to be beside her mentor, before going ahead and asking him, ¡°Teacher, I¡¯ve just noticed something. Why aren¡¯t the guards escorting us to where the Ninth Prince is? Isn¡¯t that their jobs?¡±

    ¡°Normally, that would be the case, Erea,¡± Dane instantly replied to his student¡¯s question before adding, ¡°I don¡¯t know whether or not you¡¯re going to ask that question to the Ninth Prince, but either way, it¡¯ll be a secret for now.¡±

    ¡°I see¡­¡± Erea muttered to herself as she listened to her mentor¡¯s words. After that, they silently made their way towards the ce where the Ninth Prince was residing, a pavilion that was quite a distance away from the main pce, taking around half an hour to do so.

    ¡°Hah! Hah!¡± As they had arrived in front of the pavilion, the two of them could see a man assiduously shing down a de that exuded a terrifying aura of Wind. This man currently had no clothes covering his upper torso, allowing the two to see the streamlined muscles outlining his body, while the man¡¯s face, which had an earnest yet serious expression, could not help but radiate magnanimity as the man¡¯s jet-ck hair and his yellow irises showed that he was a part of the Seraph Kingdom¡¯s royalty.

    Looking at how focused the man was shing his de, Erea could not help but look at Dane beside him and ask him in a slightly hushed voice, ¡°Teacher, is that¡­¡±

    ¡°Mhm.¡± Dane nodded his head in response to her question before saying, ¡°That¡¯s the Ninth Prince of the Seraph Kingdom. Vanadir Seraph.¡±

    ¡°Ah.¡± Fortunately, just as Vanadir was about to continue shing the de he was wielding for a longer time, he noticed both Erea and Dane through his peripheral vision, prompting him to stop his training for now as he grabbed the towel that was hanging on a nearby tree, wiping off the sweat that covered his body. With a grin now stered on his face, he directly looked at the two before saying, ¡°I apologize for not weing you two into my pavilion properly. Please head inside for now. I¡¯ll just and go rinse the dirt off my body.¡±

    ¡°Also, Dane.¡± He then focused his vision towards Dane before asking him, ¡°Could you brew the finest tea I have in the pavilion? Wouldn¡¯t want her to have a bad first impression of me.¡±

    In response to his request, Dane let out a light chuckle as he responded, ¡°Alright, Your Highness. I¡¯ll go ahead and follow your orders.¡±

    Nodding his head as he listened to Dane¡¯s reply, he then focused his vision towards Erea before giving a slightly apologetic look, saying, ¡°I¡¯m sorry you had to see me like this. I¡¯ll go and rinse off as fast as possible, okay?¡±

    Since it was the first time Erea was meeting up with someone from the Seraph Kingdom¡¯s royalty, plus the aura she felt from the Ninth Prince was slightly intimidating, she responded to the prince¡¯s words with her head down while slightly stuttering, saying, ¡°G-go ahead, Your Highness.¡±

    Whoosh!

    Hearing Erea¡¯s response, Vanadir unhesitatingly went off into the deeper parts of the pavilion to do what he needed to do, while Dane looked at Erea and said, ¡°Let¡¯s go inside.¡± After that, they then went ahead and entered the quarters of the pavilion that was meant for greeting guests, with Erea sitting on one of the chairs in this room as Dane went ahead and moved to the kitchen in the pavilion to brew some tea, just like the prince requested.

    A few minutes after Dane was finished brewing the tea, the Ninth Prince finally came to the quarters where Dane and Erea were at, wearing a long-sleeved shirt and some stretchable pants, which did not seem like clothes that someone from the royalty would wear.

    Sitting down on the chair opposite Erea and Dane, Vanadir went ahead and grabbed the cup of tea on the table on the center, unhesitatingly taking a sip out of it as he looked at Dane and said, ¡°Dane, you truly brew the best tea.¡±

    ¡°I appreciate thepliment, Your Highness,¡± Dane responded to Vanadir¡¯s words, taking a sip out of his cup of tea not long after. After drinking around half of the content inside that cup, Vanadir went ahead and ced his cup of tea down on the table before going ahead and looking at Erea, who was looking at him with a slightly afraid and shy gaze as she grasped on her cup of tea in a somewhat tight manner.

    ¡°Is this your first time meeting someone from the royal family?¡± Knowing that Erea was probably incredibly nervous, Vanadir asked her question. In response, Erea timidly nodded as she replied in a soft voice, ¡°Yes¡­Your Highness.¡±

    ¡°Dane told me that you were eager to ask me questions a while ago. Where did your confidence go?¡± Vanadir said to her not long after, letting out a light chuckle. Choosing her words carefully, she replied, ¡°It¡¯s just that¡­I have a feeling that some of my questions¡­might offend¡­Your Highness.¡±

    ¡°Offend me?¡± Vanadir chuckled as he repeated that string of words. ¡°I¡¯ve gone through worse already, so how could a question that would offend me be any worse than that?¡±

    ¡°We¡¯re inside my pavilion, Erea. I would¡¯ve told you to choose your words wisely if we were at the royal pce, but feel free to say whatever you want in here,¡± Vanadir said not long after. ¡°Of course, take your time. I¡¯m not forcing you to try and be ustomed easily. Even Dane was like that the first time we met.¡±

    ¡°Your Highness, did you really have to say that?¡± Dane could not help but say after hearing the Ninth Prince¡¯sst words, feeling like he was wronged. In response, Vanadir let out a light chuckle before saying, ¡°My bad, my bad. Just wanted to reduce the tension, that¡¯s all.¡±

    Surprisingly, through what Vanadir did, the tense feeling Erea had was lessened, giving her a bit more confidence to ask the questions she had in mind when she met the Ninth Prince. Noticing that the Ninth Prince was looking at her with a smile as he sipped on his cup of tea, while her mentor was looking at her with a gaze that shouted ¡®Good luck!¡¯

    Taking in a deep breath, then letting it out soon after, she then looked at the Ninth Prince in the eyes before asking him a question, albeit there was still a hint of nervousness in her voice.

    ¡°Although I joined Your Highness¡¯s team due to Teacher asking me to do so, I still have no clue what the war for the throne is,¡± Erea said to Vanadir, her voice slightly gaining confidence as she continued. ¡°This would be the first time I¡¯m joining in such arge event like this, so could Your Highness tell me what the war for the throne is all about?¡±

    ¡°I see,¡± Vanadir muttered as he listened to Erea¡¯s question. ¡°An exnation for the war for the throne, huh.¡±

    ¡°Where should I start¡­?¡±

 Chapter 233: Apologies and Wishes

    Chapter 233: Apologies and Wishes

    ¡°¡­eh?¡± This was the only sound the Undying me Spirit could utter after listening to the long string of harsh words Argentum said to her. To be honest, what she expected to hear from the Pseudo-Animate in front of her was instead words of gratitude or possibly an actual question. She truly did not expect to beshed out by a Pseudo-Animate she had helped, and a weaker one at that, leading to the loss of words that she was experiencing right now.

    After letting out all of the pent-up rage inside him to the master of the me Spirit Inheritance, Argentum felt a new level of zen inside him, as if there was nothing that could bother him anymore. Unfortunately for him, that sensation onlysted for a while as his sense of vision slowly focused on the Undying me Spirit, who was radiating an aura of confusion as of this moment.

    At first, he could not help but wonder as to why the Undying me Spirit was confused, as well as why the Undying me Spirit was not moving nor responding at all. Thankfully, it did not take long for him to realize that the reason why the Undying me Spirit was like this was because of what he had said a while ago. At the instant he realized this, his aura, which used to be the epitome of calmness andposure, was now reced with the epitome of fear, anxiety, and terror.

    Of course, this aura stemmed from the fact that heshed out at the Undying me Spirit, the master of the me Spirit Inheritance. This fear was greatly heightened since he hadmitted the information he learned from the Seven me Road into his memory, knowing very well that she was the only being in the continent he was on that could exert the power of the Lux Purity mes, the fourth me on the Seven me Road.

    The power and heat he felt from the Lux Purity mes was already suppressed to a great extent in order for him to survive such intense mes, but what if the Undying me Spirit became infuriated at his words and unhesitatingly decided to use such a me on him, a me that would easily wipe out billions of beings from its indirect heat? A me that would not even need to be exposed for an attosecond in order for Argentum to disappear from the face of this world?

    With that in mind, Argentum unhesitatingly prostrated in front of the Undying me Spirit as he hastily formted an apology in his mind, using his most sincere tone to shout, ¡°I sincerely apologize for what I¡¯ve just said to the great Undying me Spirit!¡±

    Surprisingly, this apology of his was able to make the Undying me Spirite back to her senses as her sense of vision soon focused onto Argentum prostrating, making Argentum feel more fear and anxiety, wondering whether or not the Undying me Spirit was nning to kill him at any moment.

    ¡°It¡¯s just that this lowly Pseudo-Animate is not used to having those kinds of trials in an inheritance, and I just need a ce to vent it off¡­I sincerely apologize!¡± Argentum said not long after feeling the Undying me Spirit¡¯s gaze at him be a bit cold. He then said, ¡°If the great Undying me Spirit wants me to, I would dly be the great Undying me Spirit¡¯s servant, or perhaps even your ¡ª¡±

    ¡°You can stop talking, Argentum.¡± Just before Argentum was about to finish hisst string of words, the Undying me Spirit interrupted him from doing so as she let out a short sigh. At this moment, the level of fear and anxiety Argentum felt as he realized what he had done was at a level far beyond what he thought was possible. As an incredibly tense silence ensued between the two of them, the Undying me Spirit could not help but notice the aura that Argentum was radiating, making him ponder for a bit before going ahead and saying, ¡°Stand up.¡±

    ¡°Y-yes!¡± Still fearing the repercussions of what he had said to the Undying me Spirit, Argentum hastily replied to her words with a stutter as he stood up, making sure that his posture was as perfect as it could be. Noticing that Argentum still held great fear for her, the Undying me Spirit let out a sigh as she said, ¡°I won¡¯t punish you for what you¡¯ve said.¡±

    ¡°Eh?¡± Argentum uttered as he listened to the Undying me Spirit¡¯s words. He could not believe what he was hearing. He then cautiously asked if she could repeat it one more time, which she unhesitatingly did so. At that point, the amount of fear Argentum had for her was slightly lessened, but it was still at an incredibly high level. Mustering up his courage to wonder why, he told her, ¡°But I badmouthed you¡­you¡¯re way stronger than me¡­shouldn¡¯t you be mad¡­?¡±

    ¡°Mad? Of course, I want to be mad,¡± she responded to his question before adding, ¡°But I can¡¯t be fully mad after hearing what you¡¯ve said. I guess it was insensitive of me to give you those kinds of trials.¡±

    Hearing her response to his words, the amount of fear he had was lessened yet again, now feeling great remorse for what he had done. In his mind, he thought that he should have thought about the reasons why the Undying me Spirit did what she did from her perspective and not justsh out from the perspective he had experienced. Letting out a short sigh, he mustered up his courage once more, saying, ¡°I seriously apologize for what I¡¯ve done. I guess you can say I was insensitive as well, not considering your perspective as Ished out.¡±

    He then let out one more sigh as he continued, ¡°It¡¯s just that the trials I¡¯ve undergone in the past were vastly different from the trials you¡¯ve let me undergo in this inheritance. The trials I¡¯ve undergone felt¡­uh¡­what¡¯s the word I¡¯m looking for again?¡±

    ¡°Normal?¡± the Undying me Spirit asked in response to his question, to which Argentum nodded. Letting out a sigh of her own, she then said, ¡°To be honest, I was contemting whether or not to let you go through the normal trials at first, but seeing as you were a Pseudo-Animate, I gave you preferential treatment. This inheritance was made to help bolster the power of Fire-based Pseudo-Animates in the first ce.¡±

    ¡°But I¡¯m not a Fire-based Pseudo-Animate,¡± Argentum said to her, his fear and anxiety gradually disappearing as he continued to talk. ¡°So why would you still give me preferential treatment?¡±

    ¡°Because you¡¯re a Pseudo-Animate. That¡¯s all there is to it,¡± the Undying me Spirit replied sinctly. In response to that, Argentum could not help but feel even more remorse than before, saying, ¡°Now I feel like scum.¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t beat yourself up like that,¡± the Undying me Spirit said after listening to his words. ¡°We just have our own preferences in life, it¡¯s just that our preferences did not match up.¡±

    ¡°I guess you could say that,¡± Argentum let out a light chuckle as he responded, which was soon followed up with a sigh. After that, a moment of silence ensued between the two of them, which was broken by Argentum as he directly looked at the Undying me Spirit and said, ¡°Thank you.¡±

    ¡°Hm? What was that?¡± Although she had a feeling that Argentum thanked her, she wanted to make sure. Fortunately, Argentum was not that shy when it came to showing gratitude, saying it once more, ¡°Thank you for giving me great rewards with the trials being easy.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re wee,¡± the Undying me Spirit said nonchntly, but she was inwardly happy that the Pseudo-Animate was truly what she expected in the fourth trial. Unfortunately for her, she let that slip out as she said, ¡°I guess my impression of you from the fourth trial was correct. You¡¯re a kind Pseudo-Animate at heart.¡±

    ¡°Huh? Fourth trial?¡± Hearing the Undying me Spirit say those words, Argentum could not help but recall what had happened in the fourth trial, trying to find anything that connected the fourth trial to what she was saying. Thankfully, it did not take long for Argentum to realize that there was a chance that the reason why she would say that was because of what he did to the Reconnaissance Spirit.

    Wanting to know if it was true though, Argentum mustered up his courage and said two words.

    ¡°Reconnaissance Spirit?¡±

    ¡°Exactly,¡± the Undying me Spirit said in response to his question, letting out a chuckle not long after as he felt a bit embarrassed. ¡°Anyways¡­¡±

    Just as Argentum thought that he had apologized enough to the Undying me Spirit for what he had done, the aura of the Undying me Spirit gradually intensified as the color of her body transformed from a crimson red color to an orange one. Not long after, it was reced with a yellow me, before being reced with a white me, radiating an immense level of killing intent in the process.

    At that moment, the amount of fear and anxiety Argentum had, which he thought was already gone, was soon revived as it had reached an even greater level than before. The level of his fear and anxiety was not just far beyond what was possible, but farther beyond what was far beyond the possible. Noticing Argentum¡¯s reaction, the Undying me Spirit was inwardly happy as she said in the most murderous tone she could muster, ¡°Never badmouth me like that ever again.¡±

    ¡°Y-yes,¡± Argentum could only timidly respond to her question, feeling that the mes surrounding her body were the Lux Purity mes he hade across in the Seven me Road, but its power of destruction was greatly suppressed. Fortunately, the Undying me Spirit did not stay in that form for too long. After making sure that she had left a longsting imprint on Argentum¡¯s memory to not badmouth her ever again, she reverted to her original form, which was the one made out of crimson red mes.

    ¡°Haah¡­even though I could use the Lux Purity mes at full power, it still takes a lot out of me to do so,¡± the Undying me Spirit muttered to herself as she let out a sigh, focusing her sense of vision back to Argentum, who had subconsciously prostrated due to the immense fear he felt from her full power.

    ¡°I just wanted to give you a small punishment, that¡¯s all,¡± the Undying me Spirit said to Argentum as she let out a light chuckle. A few secondster, she told him, ¡°If you don¡¯t stand up at this instant, then I won¡¯t grant any wish you want.¡±

    Whoosh!

    Surprisingly, even though Argentum¡¯s fear and anxiety were still at a high level thanks to what the Undying me Spirit had done, he unhesitatingly stood up as he knew that any wish he asked for to the master of the me Spirit Inheritance, who truly looked like an incredibly strong Pseudo-Animate to him, would definitely be granted in one way or another.

    Taking in a few deep breaths to reduce his fear and anxiety to tolerable levels, Argentum eventually regained his calm andposure as he focused his sense of vision towards the Undying me Spirit, imitating the sound of an Animate clearing his throat as he asked her, ¡°You said that you could grant any wish I want, right?¡±

    ¡°Indeed,¡± the Undying me Spirit responded to his question. She then added, ¡°Of course, the wish should be something that I¡¯m actually capable of doing. No wishing the revival of a being. I have no methods of doing so.¡±

    ¡°No wishing for immortality as well, I haven¡¯t achieved that,¡± she continued exining the limitations of her wishes. ¡°Well¡­if you wish for long life, then I can help with that. Although those methods would use up a lot of my rare materials, it would definitely allow you to live for an additional 1000 years or so.¡±

    ¡°A thousand years?!¡± Hearing that she was able to extend his lifespan to a great extent, Argentum could not help but be tempted. Then again, he remembered that he still had a ton of years left in his lifespan, thinking that it would be useless for him to increase his lifespan at this moment. It would be incredibly useful if he had a foot in the grave though.

    Nevertheless, the thought intrigued him, prompting him to ask her, ¡°Have you used such methods on yourself? If so, how old are you?¡±

    ¡°First question, yes; second question, a few thousand years,¡± the Undying me Spirit unhesitatingly replied. ¡°Of course, I won¡¯t tell how long I¡¯ve been exactly alive. That¡¯s a maiden¡¯s secret~¡±

    ¡°Sure¡­¡± Argentum said before going ahead and pondering over the wish he wanted for the Undying me Spirit to fulfill. The only limitations he had in terms of the wish he wanted her to fulfill was the revival of the dead and immortality. It urred to him not long after that he could go ahead and wish the Undying me Spirit to make him incredibly strong, prompting him to ask her, ¡°Is it possible for the wish to make me incredibly strong in an instant?¡±

    ¡°How strong to be exact?¡± the Undying me Spirit asked him. ¡°If you want to obtain a level of strength below mine, then I could do that. As for a level of strength on the same level as mine or a higher level than mine, that I cannot do.¡±

    ¡°Then again, there¡¯s a big downside to this, being that it would take a long time for you to adapt to your newly obtained strength. At your current level, it would probably take you over ten thousand years to eventually adapt. In other words, you¡¯d be dead by then,¡± she added not long after, prompting Argentum to discard the idea in his mind.

    ¡®A wish that would allow me to obtain a great boost in the short term, as well as the long term.¡¯ This was the kind of wish Argentum wanted the Undying me Spirit to fulfill. Thinking about this thought even deeper, he went ahead and rummaged through Aurus¡¯s memories.

    Surprisingly, thanks to Aurus¡¯s memories, Argentum was able to find the exact type of wish he wanted the Undying me Spirit to fulfill, though he was not sure whether she would allow it in the first ce.

    Attracting her attention by imitating the sound of a being clearing their throat, he went ahead and told her, ¡°I would like to ask if this wish is possible.¡±

    ¡°What kind of wish is it?¡± the Undying me Spirit asked, yawning before manifesting a chair made out of her own energy, which she sat on soon after. Feeling a bit nervous, Argentum went ahead and mustered up all of his courage to ask her, ¡°Is it possible for you to give me partial ownership of this inheritance?¡±

    The ownership of an inheritance. ording to Aurus¡¯s memories, once one obtained ownership of an inheritance, they would instantly obtain a decent boost to their stats, which fulfills Argentum¡¯s needs of a great boost in the short term. Not only that, but the owner of an inheritance would also gain ess to the various rooms of the inheritance, like the skill room in the Tempest Cliff Inheritance Aurus owned. That fulfilled Argentum¡¯s needs for a great boost in the long term.

    Of course, since the master of the me Spirit Inheritance was still alive, he could not go and ask her if he could be the new owner of the inheritance, that would just be rude. Instead, he opted for the second type of ownership Aurus had obtained from the Area 52 Inheritance, a partial ownership.

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡± The Undying me Spirit pondered over Argentum¡¯s question for quite some time, increasing the level of nervousness Argentum felt with every second. Fortunately, after a minute or so, the Undying me Spirit was finished pondering, focusing her sense of vision towards Argentum and saying, ¡°To be honest, you¡¯re the first Pseudo-Animate I¡¯ve met to ask me to fulfill such a wish.¡±

    At that point, Argentum instantly concluded that the Undying me Spirit would decline his wish. Then again, it made sense. This me Spirit Inheritance was the inheritance she had made to help out Pseudo-Animates be stronger in a short amount of time. Someone like her would definitely enjoy controlling every nook and cranny of the inheritance. By giving him partial ownership of the inheritance, that meant that she was giving up a portion of the control she had over the inheritance. But then, the Undying me Spirit continued to talk as she let out a light chuckle, making Argentum radiate an aura of tion in an instant.

    ¡°Then again, it¡¯s not impossible for me to do so. Sure, I¡¯ll fulfill your wish.¡±

    ¡°Bing a partial owner, that is.¡±

 Chapter 234: Spirit Contract

    Chapter 234: Spirit Contract

    ¡°Sure, I¡¯ll fulfill your wish,¡± the Undying me Spirit said after pondering over it after a while, letting out a chuckle in the process. She then added, ¡°Bing a partial owner, that is.¡±

    This time, instead of doubting the Undying me Spirit¡¯s words, Argentum instantly believed that the Undying me Spirit would do such a thing since she did say to him that she would grant any wish he wanted to be fulfilled. Hearing the Undying me Spirit¡¯s response, he could not help but radiate an aura of tion as he asked her in a slightly excited tone, ¡°Really?¡±

    ¡°Of course,¡± the Undying me Spirit replied to his question, radiating a slightly curious yet excited aura. But before she fulfilled her wishes, she told him, ¡°But before I go ahead and fulfill your wish, I¡¯ll tell you the reason why I made this inheritance.¡±

    ¡°Hm?¡± Argentum could not help but be confused after hearing herst words, not knowing how the reason why she made the inheritance had something to do with his wish of obtaining partial ownership of the inheritance. With such a gullible mindset, he went ahead and asked her, referencing Aurus¡¯s memories in his mind, ¡°Giving some partial ownership of the inheritance is just giving someone a little bit of control over the inheritance, right? Why the need to exin such a thing?¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s because inheritances are moreplicated than that,¡± the Undying me Spirit replied to his question before adding, ¡°You better go ahead and listen because if you don¡¯t, I won¡¯t make you a partial owner.¡±

    ¡°¡­¡± Surprisingly, Argentum went silent after the Undying me Spirit had said those words, making the Undying me Spirit think that Argentum wanted to be a partial owner of the inheritance quite badly. With this in mind, she could not help butugh inwardly as she recalled all of the memories she had regarding the me Spirit Inheritance. After consolidating them and organizing them in order, she then took in a deep breath before focusing her sense of vision towards him.

    ¡°Since you came to this inheritance out of your own volition, I presume you know that the me Spirit Inheritance is solely biased towards those that are inclined to the Fire element, right?¡± the Undying me Spirit asked Argentum, only for Argentum to remain silent. Noticing this, she could not help but ponder for a bit as to why, eventually concluding that answering might result in him not bing a partial owner of the inheritance, making her sigh in slight disappointment.

    ¡°I¡¯m not telling you to not speak, Argentum,¡± the Undying me Spirit said not long after. ¡°You can still respond to my questions and ask ones yourself. I just wanted you to stay silent for a bit.¡±

    ¡°I see¡­¡± Still a bit skeptical of the Undying me Spirit taking away his chance of bing a partial owner if he spoke, Argentum had no choice but to answer, feeling that she might just remove his chance altogether if he didn¡¯t do what she said. Ignoring what was going on in Argentum¡¯s mind, she repeated the question one more time.

    ¡°Let me repeat my question one more time. Since you came to this inheritance out of your own volition, I presume you know that the me Spirit Inheritance is solely biased towards those that are inclined to the Fire element, right?¡± she asked Argentum, to which Argentum nodded as he replied, ¡°Yeah. That¡¯s more or less the reason why I entered the inheritance in the first ce.¡±

    ¡°At least you know about the general things regarding the inheritance,¡± the Undying me Spirit said after Argentum¡¯s response, taking in a deep breath to organize her memories one more time. After doing so, she then started to narrate the memories she had organized.

    ¡°I¡¯m pretty sure you won¡¯t be wondering as to why this inheritance was made in the first ce, since inheritors like you only care about the rewards,¡± the Undying me Spirit said, making Argentum radiate an aura of slight guilt. She then added, ¡°But that¡¯s fine most of the time. Unless you¡¯re bing an owner, or in this case a partial owner, of the inheritance.¡±

    ¡°I made this inheritance at a time where Pseudo-Animates still made up the majority of living beings on this continent,¡± she narrated. ¡°As for the specific date, you don¡¯t even need to know about it. Anyways, I was one of the strongest Fire-based Pseudo-Animates at the time, which meant that I had the responsibility to guide all of my brethren in the paths of bing stronger.¡±

    ¡°Of course, I first thought about creating a ce where I educate all of the Pseudo-Animates all at once, but it did not take me long to find out that I was extremely bad at educating others¡­probably around a hundred years or so?¡± she said, making Argentum subconsciously shiver as he imagined what she was doing back in those times. ¡°So I decided to go and educate them through the second method I had in mind, creating an inheritance.¡±

    ¡°I noticed that every two hundred years or so, the averagebat level of my brethren would decrease by a decentlyrge margin, which prompted me to hasten the speed at which I built the inheritance, only taking around 5 years or so thanks to the help of the other strong Pseudo-Animates at the time.¡± As she said this, a confident aura radiated from her body, reminiscing the fun she had while she made the inheritance with her fellow Pseudo-Animates.

    ¡°After the inheritance was fully built, you could say that the Fire-based Pseudo-Animates had undergone a golden age of power, with their averagebat power now being around three to five levels below mine, which was exponentially higher than the averagebat power before the creation of the inheritance,¡± she continued narrating. ¡°Surprisingly, the more I taught my brethren through the inheritance I had made, the more I felt some sort of power welling up within me. As if I¡¯ve broken through to a new level of power.¡±

    ¡°Fortunately, it did not take me long to realize that this newfound power I¡¯ve obtained came from the inheritance I had built,¡± she said soon after before adding, ¡°Of course, I found this out from the Pseudo-Animates I was good friends with, who had inheritances of their own.¡±

    After saying that, she then went silent for a bit, pondering over something. This, in turn, made Argentum slightly nervous, not knowing why that was the case. Thankfully, it only took around ten seconds or so for the Undying me Spirit to finish pondering, telling Argentum in a slightly unsatisfied tone, ¡°And I guess I¡¯ll end the story here for now.¡±

    ¡°In short, by giving you partial ownership over this inheritance, not only am I giving you a bit of the control I have over the inheritance, but also the power I¡¯ve obtained thanks to the inheritance. In other words, by doing this sort of thing, you¡¯re pretty much reducing mybat power by a decent amount,¡± she said after that, with Argentum radiating an aura of understanding as he now knew why obtaining the ownership of an inheritance gave a being a boost in their stats, just like how Aurus¡¯s stats were boosted by bing the owner of the Tempest Cliff Inheritance, and a partial owner of the Area 52 Inheritance.

    ¡®So the power the Undying me Spirit obtained from her inheritance is more or less the stat boost Aurus got when he obtained ownership of those inheritances,¡¯ Argentum thought, now somewhat understanding the reasoning behind the Undying me Spirit exining the creation of the me Spirit Inheritance.

    ¡°Now do you understand why I went out of my way to tell you about the origins of this inheritance,¡± the Undying me Spirit asked him, to which Argentum responded, ¡°Yeah, I fully understand now.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m d that you got it quite quickly,¡± she responded to his words, letting out a faint aura of happiness before adding, ¡°With that out of the way, let¡¯s now consider percentages. Naturally, I¡¯ll be the owner that has a greater percentage of control over the inheritance. You can go ahead and bargain how many percent of the inheritance you want ownership of.¡±

    ¡°Bargain¡­¡± Argentum repeated this word to himself in a mutter, wondering if he should go ahead and ask her if he could own 49% of the inheritance. A few secondster, he discarded this thought, knowing very well that such a proposal would definitely anger her. Even though she would still have a greater percentage of ownership over the inheritance, this kind of split was more or less equivalent to bing co-owners of the inheritance, which Argentum had a feeling that she did not want.

    After that, he thought about settling for a lower percentage, around 20 to 30 percent. Although he felt that she would go ahead and ept such a proposal, it would instead make Argentum feel like he got the short end of the stick since he did not know how much power the me Spirit Inheritance contained, unlike the Tempest Cliff Inheritance and the Area 52 Inheritance.

    Eventually, a thought surfaced in his mind, which Argentum pondered over it for a while, deeming that it was the ideal response to her statement a few secondster. Imitating the sound of a being clearing their throat to attract the Undying me Spirit¡¯s attention, he went ahead and responded to her statement regarding the percentage of ownership he wanted from the me Spirit Inheritance.

    ¡°It¡¯d be better if you, the great Undying me Spirit, would decide on how much of the inheritance I would have control over,¡± Argentum said in a slightly respectful tone. He then added, ¡°I¡¯m definitely sure that the great Undying me Spirit would be magnanimous in her decisions.¡±

    ¡°Magnanimous in my decisions, eh?¡± Although the Undying me Spirit had a hunch that Argentum responded with that kind of answer in order for him to possibly obtain a greater share of the inheritance from her, she could not help but follow through with Argentum¡¯s words, deciding to be a bit more magnanimous than usual in terms of rewarding Pseudo-Animates like him.

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡± The Undying me Spirit hemmed and hawed for quite some time, making Argentum slightly expectant yet nervous at the same time. Of course, the Undying me Spirit had already decided on a percentage quite some time ago that would not make her lose that much power while allowing Argentum to experience a great boost in power. After hemming and hawing, she then said to Argentum, ¡°I¡¯ll be willing to part 35% of my control over the inheritance to you. How does that sound?¡±

    ¡°I ept!¡± Argentum unhesitatingly decided to ept the offer since 35% was slightly higher than his expectations, which were around the 20s. Noticing Argentum¡¯s response of sincere tion, the Undying me Spirit could not help but radiate an aura of slight happiness as she said, ¡°Alright then. Give me a moment to give it to you.¡±

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    After saying those words, the Undying me Spirit went ahead and closed her vision as she muttered a few incantations that Argentum could not understand, condensing the energy within her body into a sphere that only she could see. A few seconds after that, a whirlpool of Fire energy particles appeared, with the Undying me Spirit at the center of it. At this moment, a tyrannical aura radiated from the Undying me Spirit, making Argentum feel like it was hard to stand up. Fortunately, the aura did not radiate for too long as the Undying me Spirit suppressed at the very instant it had reached its peak.

    ¡°Under the sights of heaven, I, the Undying me Spirit, shall now bestow Argentum here a portion of the me Spirit Inheritance¡¯s control. May this agreementst for eternity!¡± she said after she had suppressed the aura, extending her right palm out as it fired a small ball of fire towards Argentum.

    Fwoosh!

    Noticing that the ball of fire was heading towards him at great speeds, the first thought that came to his mind was to dodge it. Of course, just before he could do so, the Undying me Spirit went ahead and shouted, ¡°Don¡¯t dodge it! Let it collide with your body! I¡¯ve condensed the share I¡¯ll give to you in that ball of fire!¡±

    In response, Argentum nodded his head, using all of the willpower he had to resist the urge of avoiding such a fast fireball. Thankfully, Argentum did not have to resist the urge to dodge it for long as the ball of fire eventually made contact with his body, imbuing him with a great sense of power in an instant. Not only that, but after the great sense of power he felt welling up in his body had stabilized, he then felt that he could check all of the rooms that were in the me Spirit Inheritance.

    Ding!

    A few seconds after that, a notification sound resounded in his mind, prompting him to open up the notification screen in his mind, eliciting an aura of happiness from him soon after.

    ¡®You have obtained the title [me Spirit Inheritance: Partial Owner].¡¯

    Although he was quite eager to check how much of a boost he had obtained from the title he had just received, it would be rude for him to not thank the Undying me Spirit beforehand, unhesitatingly bowing down in front of her and saying in a tone filled with gratitude, ¡°Thank you, great Undying me Spirit for being magnanimous.¡±

    ¡°Stop saying I¡¯m magnanimous,¡± she responded to his words with a chuckle. ¡°Anyways, how does it feel obtaining a part of the inheritance¡¯s power?¡±

    ¡°It feels great,¡± Argentum said in a cheerful tone. ¡°I feel like I¡¯ve be twice as strong in an instant.¡±

    ¡°Good to know,¡± the Undying me Spirit said in response to his words, letting out a sigh of relief before adding, ¡°Since you¡¯ve sessfully obtained partial ownership of the inheritance, let¡¯s now form a Spirit Contract.¡±

    ¡°Eh? A Spirit Contract?¡± Argentum could not help but ask, to which the Undying me Spirit answered, ¡°A Spirit Contract is a contract that allows me to sense wherever you may be, with you being capable of doing the same to me as well. We canmunicate at any ce and any time, plus I could also teleport to where you are at any time, with you being capable of doing the same as well.¡±

    Listening to what the Spirit Contract entailed, Argentum could not help but think that the Spirit Contract only gave him a ton of benefits. In his mind, he was considering the contract as a way for him to obtain a bodyguard with great power, allowing him to be safe at any time. Though he was quite eager to go ahead and ept the contract, he could not help but ask, ¡°Why do we have to form a Spirit Contract though?¡±

    ¡°For safety measures,¡± the Undying me Spirit replied. ¡°If you die, then the percentage I¡¯ve given to you will be lost, reducing the power I obtain from the inheritance even further. The same applies vice versa. If I die, the percentage you have control over will weaken as well, thus reducing the amount of power you have. Do you want that to happen?¡±

    Realizing that the death of a fellow partial owner of an inheritance would bring detrimental effects to him, the thought he had in mind a while ago had now ovepped with a new one, leading Argentum to respond to the Undying me Spirit¡¯s words with a hint of determination, saying, ¡°Of course not.¡±

    ¡°If you put it that way, then I have no choice but to ept, right?¡±

 Chapter 235: The Next Destination

    Chapter 235: The Next Destination

    ¡°I¡¯m d you ept,¡± the Undying me Spirit said in response to Argentum¡¯s words, eliciting an aura of happiness from her. She then stood up and stretched her body as she went ahead and moved towards the corridor that led to therge stone room where Argentum was attempting the trials. Noticing this as he focused his sense of vision towards her, he asked her, ¡°Where are you nning to go, great Undying me Spirit?¡±

    ¡°Outside,¡± the Undying me Spirit responded to his question in an instant. She then added, ¡°It¡¯s the best ce to form a Spirit Contract since we¡¯re closer to the naturalws that way.¡±

    ¡°Of course, that means you have toe with me as well,¡± the Undying me Spirit said as she focused her sense of vision on Argentum, gesturing with her hands to follow him. Fortunately, Argentum did not make a fuss this time as he went ahead and followed behind her, with the two ending up in the center of the stone room not long after. A few secondster, the Undying me Spirit then told Argentum to hold her hand, which Argentum did, feeling a bit shy since this was the first time he held hands with someone else. But then he remembered how old the being he was holding hands with, and soon, his embarrassment went down the drain.

    Thankfully, the Undying me Spirit was oblivious to what was going inside his mind, snapping her fingers as a mass of Fire energy particles soon enveloped both her and Argentum.

    Whoosh!

    Not long after that, the mass of Fire energy particles in therge stone room had disappeared, bringing along the Undying me Spirit and Argentum with it. It did not take long for them to appear in another location, a location that Argentum was familiar with since it was the location he was in before he entered the inheritance.

    ¡°We¡¯re actually outside,¡± Argentum could not help but mutter, noticing that the red orb that led him into the inheritance was still where he moved it. As for the Undying me Spirit beside him, she could not help but take a deep breath as she let out a sigh of satisfaction not long after. ¡°Haah¡­it¡¯s been a long time since I¡¯ve gone outside of the inheritance. How long has it been? Five hundred years or so?¡±

    Hearing that the Undying me Spirit was cooped up inside her inheritance for the past five hundred years, Argentum could not help but subconsciously shiver as he thought to himself, ¡®This Undying me Spirit must be the epitome of introversion. Sure, I can handle being alone for a few days¡­well, weeks since I¡¯m upying myself with stuff. But I¡¯m definitely sure that I¡¯d give up on the first year.¡¯

    After taking in a breath of fresh air, the Undying me Spirit then went ahead and walked outside of the abandoned building where the red orb resided, with Argentum following behind her along the way. Even though Argentum expected that the Undying me Spirit would probably head out to a ce that was far away from the me Spirit Inheritance, surprisingly, the Undying me Spirit stopped at a ce that was only a hundred meters or so away from the inheritance, still being inside the hotter area of the Inferno ins. Of course, Argentum was now oblivious to this heat, feeling nothing from it at all.

    Walking in a few random directions for a while with her eyes closed as Argentum watched her, the Undying me Spirit eventually opened her eyes a few minutester, cing both of her hands on the ground as she muttered, ¡°This seems like a good spot.¡±

    Whirr¡­

    Contrary to the element she was inclined to, the sound of arge breeze resounded throughout a certain radius around the Undying me Spirit, with the Argentum radiating an aura of confusion as he eventually found out that this sound wasing from none other than her. Although he wanted to ask what she was doing, he had a hunch that it would be better for him to stay silent and watch from afar, lest he wanted to infuriate the Undying me Spirit from what she was doing.

    Whoosh!

    After a minute or so, the sound of wind abruptly stopped as the Undying me Spirit raised both of her hands into the air before mming into the ground as she shouted, ¡°Spirit Contract, form!¡±

    Bang!

    Apanied by a loud bang, a magic circle that spanned over 50 meters in diameter was conjured on the ground in an instant, with the Undying me Spirit at the center of said magic circle. Every line constituting the magic circle was made out of orange energy that radiated an intense aura of heat, which Argentum could not help but think came from the Unworldly Sol mes. As for the magic runes that were inscribed in the magic circle, holding power that was even unfathomable to Argentum, these were made out of white energy that radiated a more intense aura of heat, which Argentum automatically thought were the Lux Purity mes that only she had control over.

    ¡°Argentum, head to the center!¡± After the magic circle was made, the Undying me Spirit went ahead and looked around for Argentum, finding him a few secondster before going ahead and shouting these words. In response to this, Argentum hastily went to where the Undying me Spirit at his highest speed, only taking around ten seconds or so for him to arrive.

    With Argentum now beside her, the Undying me Spirit then told her, ¡°This magic circle is the medium wherein we contact with the heavens, forming the Spirit Contract that binds us together. I want you to repeat after every statement I say, okay?¡±

    ¡°Is there a catch to this?¡± Argentum could not help but ask, to which the Undying me Spirit replied, ¡°Why would I fool a weak Pseudo-Animate like you? I swear on behalf of my strength, there¡¯s no catch to this.¡±

    ¡°Alright then.¡± Seeing that the Undying me Spirit was even willing to make a promise like that, Argentum unhesitatingly decided to follow hermands, telling her, ¡°I¡¯ll repeat after you.¡±

    In response to Argentum¡¯s words, the Undying me Spirit nodded her head before taking in a deep breath. She then looked up at the sky before shouting, ¡°Great heavens of above, please bear witness to a pact between two beings!¡±

    Taking in a deep breath as well, Argentum decided to follow what the Undying me Spirit was doing before repeating what she said. ¡°Great heavens of above, please bear witness to a pact between two beings!¡±

    Rumble¡­rumble¡­

    In response to their statements, the sky started to be dark as clouds filled with lightning started to form above the magic circle. Although Argentum was somewhat worried that this phenomenon wasn¡¯t part of the Spirit Contract, noticing the calm aura radiating from the Undying me Spirit, he forced himself to stop bing skeptical, thinking in his mind to repeat whatever words the Undying me Spirit would say.

    ¡°I am a being that wishes to form a pact witnessed by the heavens.¡±

    ¡°I am a being that wishes to form a pact witnessed by the heavens.¡±

    ¡°This pact shall operate under the naturalws of the heavens.¡±

    ¡°This pact shall operate under the naturalws of the heavens.¡±

    ¡°This pact shall allow both beings to be in contact, no matter where they may be.¡±

    ¡°This pact shall allow both beings to be in contact, no matter where they may be.¡±

    ¡°If the heavens disapprove of such a pact, may the heavens strike its lightning now!¡±

    ¡°If the heavens disapprove of such a pact, may the heavens strike its lightning now!¡± After repeating this statement, Argentum could not help but look up at the clouds filled with lightning, slightly fearful that a bolt of lightning would indeed strike down on them. Fortunately, even after looking at the lightning-filled clouds for a minute, no bolt was sent down towards them, letting Argentum inwardly let out a sigh of relief as he attentively listened to the Undying me Spirit¡¯s next words.

    ¡°With the great heavens as the arbiter and the magic circle as the pact¡¯s medium, let the Spirit Contract be formed!¡±

    ¡°With the great heavens as the arbiter and the magic circle as the pact¡¯s medium¡­¡±

    ¡°Let the Spirit Contract be formed!¡±

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    In an instant, the white magic runes, which made up most of what was inside the magic circle, started to hover off the ground under the intervention of an external force. These runes then went ahead towards the bodies of both the Undying me Spirit and Argentum, branding every nook and cranny of their body with these runes.

    Although Argentum had a feeling that these runes would hurt as he noticed that it branded their bodies, surprisingly, he did not feel any pain at all, prompting him to wonder what was next.

    After every rune inside the magic circle was branded on their bodies, the lines that made up the boundaries that separated eachyer of the magic circle started to hover off the ground as well, radiating an aura of divinity not long after. Since these lines were actually circles, they transformed into halos which hovered over the heads of both the Undying me Spirit and Argentum, imbuing them with a sense that a divine entity was manipting a few things inside their bodies.

    Crash!

    A few secondster, these halos then shattered into pieces like broken ss, instantly making the runes that were branded on their bodies disappear, making it seem like nothing had happened on the bodies of the two. Of course, even though there was no change externally, there was a great change internally.

    As Argentum focused his sense of vision towards the Undying me Spirit, he could feel a strong connection that bound them together, with the Undying me Spirit feeling the same thing as well when she looked at Argentum. They then decided to increase the gap between the two of them, still feeling a decently strong connection between the two of them. After a few more minutes of experimentation, the Undying me Spirit let out a sigh of relief as she said, ¡°And with that, the Spirit Contract is nowplete.¡±

    Ding!

    ¡®A Spirit Contract has been formed with the Undying me Spirit.¡¯ Just as the Undying me Spirit said those words, a notification resounded in his mind, informing Argentum that a Spirit Contract has been formed between the two of them. Closing the notification screen in his mind, he then looked at the Undying me Spirit and asked her, ¡°So¡­what now?¡±

    ¡°To be honest, I don¡¯t know,¡± the Undying me Spirit said in response to his question before adding, ¡°This is the first time I¡¯ve actually made a Spirit Contract.¡±

    ¡°I see¡­¡± Argentum said in response to her words, feeling that an awkward tension was forming between the two of them. Surprisingly, just as Argentum was about to initiate a conversation, the Undying me Spirit took it upon herself to initiate the conversation, asking Argentum, ¡°Hey, Argentum. Do you want to know what my name is?¡±

    ¡°What¡¯s with the question all of a sudden?¡± Argentum could not help but be a bit confused. ¡°A while ago, you told me that your name was a secret.¡±

    ¡°Well, er¡­¡± The Undying me Spirit pondered over her words for a bit before replying, ¡°Well¡­after thinking about it for a while, I kind of realized that it was rude of me to know your name, but not let you know of mine. To be honest, I feel embarrassed whenever I tell others my name.¡±

    ¡°Surely, it wouldn¡¯t be that bad, right?¡± Argentum said to her in response before radiating an aura that he wouldn¡¯t tell others about it. ¡°Go ahead and tell me.¡±

    ¡°¡­¡± The Undying me Spirit was at a loss for words, feeling somewhat nervous that she was about to tell a Pseudo-Animate, which she only knew quite some time ago, her name. Fortunately, she mustered up her courage to say her name, only for it to partially fail.

    ¡°E¡­anor¡­¡±

    ¡°Hm?¡± Argentum heard somethinge out of her mouth, but did not know whether she was talking about her name or not. With that, Argentum went ahead and asked her, ¡°Could you repeat that one more time?¡±

    In response, the Undying me Spirit took in a deep breath before mustering up her courage once more to say her name, only for her to end up saying it in a soft voice.

    ¡°My name is¡­Eleanor¡­¡±

    ¡°Eleanor, huh,¡± Argentum could not help but say after hearing it. After a while, he radiated a cheerful aura as he focused his sense of vision towards her and said, ¡°Eleanor¡¯s a beautiful name.¡±

    Ba-dump.

    At that instant, Eleanor felt something thump inside her body, as if her body was that of an Animate¡¯s. She could not help but take in a deep breath before responding to Argentum with a cheerful aura of her own, saying, ¡°Thank you for thepliment.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re quite wee,¡± Argentum said in a slightly happy tone. Not long after, he added, ¡°Anyways, now that the Spirit Contract has been formed, what are you going to do next?¡±

    Fortunately, Eleanor only took a while to regain herposure, promptly replying to his question with, ¡°Well, what else can I do. I¡¯ll head back to the inheritance and wait for other Pseudo-Animates toe. What about you?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m going to head to the Azure Shores,¡± Argentum replied to her question, deciding to not hide anything from her since they were bound by a contract. ¡°I need to obtain some abilities there in order for my evolution to be better.¡±

    ¡°The Azure Shores, huh,¡± Eleanor could not help but say with a slight longing tone. ¡°I went to that ce quite some time ago to obtain something in it as well, but it¡¯s been a long time since then that I don¡¯t remember what the thing I obtained was anymore.¡±

    Just as she was going to end their conversation here, a thought that seemed to be usible popped up in his mind, prompting her to ask him, ¡°I don¡¯t know if this is just my gut feeling or not, but are you nning on entering an inheritance inside the Azure Shores? Just like how you entered mine?¡±

    ¡°Hm?¡± Although Argentum was slightly surprised that she got to that conclusion, he nodded his head in response as he said, ¡°Yeah. Inheritances are the ces where you could obtain abilities the fastest anyway.¡±

    ¡°Might I ask which inheritance you are nning to go to once you get there?¡± Eleanor asked, having a feeling that the inheritance Argentum had in mind was something she personally knew about

    In response to her question, Argentum scratched his head before saying, ¡°Uh¡­I¡¯m heading to the Grand Blue Inheritance. Is there a reason why you asked?¡±

    ¡°Grand Blue Inheritance¡­¡± Hearing this name, Eleanor could not help but radiate an aura of slight surprise as she looked at Argentum head-on. With a tone of slight disbelief, she then asked Argentum, ¡°You¡¯re actually heading to the Grand Blue Inheritance? The inheritance that¡¯s famed for its 99.9% death rate even for beings inclined to the Water element?!¡±

    ¡°¡­¡± Listening to Eleanor¡¯s reply, Argentum was left at a loss for words. It was only after a few seconds or so did a sounde out of him.

    ¡°¡­huh?¡±

 Chapter 236: Heading to the Azure Shores

    Chapter 236: Heading to the Azure Shores

    ¡°Huh?¡± This was the only sound that came of Argentum¡¯s mouth after listening to what Eleanor was saying. After that, he processed her response inside his mind, eventually formting a proper response as an aura of fear radiated from him. He then asked her in a stupefied tone, ¡°Are you serious, Eleanor? The Grand Blue Inheritance has a 99.9% death rate?¡±

    ¡°How could I not lie?¡± Eleanor responded to Argentum¡¯s question before adding, ¡°That¡¯s the reason why I asked you what inheritance you were heading to do in the Azure Shores. Anyways, I¡¯ve got a few longsting experiences from that inheritance that they feel more like traumas rather than proper memories.¡±

    ¡°Since you¡¯ve undergone the Grand Blue Inheritance back then, could you please shed some light on the trials and other misceneous things regarding the inheritance, Eleanor?¡± Argentum asked her not long after she finished talking, a thought filled with doubt gradually forming inside his mind, screaming at him to not enter the Grand Blue Inheritance at all.

    ¡°Are you sure you want to know?¡± Eleanor could not help but ask him, to which he nodded in response. After that, she let out a long sigh before saying, ¡°I guess I¡¯ll tell you all I know regarding the Grand Blue Inheritance then. But don¡¯t tell me after I¡¯m done narrating that you¡¯ve decided to not head to the Grand Blue Inheritance, okay?¡±

    Argentum hastily nodded at her words, inwardly thinking to himself that he was going to avoid entering the Grand Blue Inheritance altogether, choosing another inheritance in the Azure Shores that would offer the same rewards instead without the high death rate.

    Noticing that Argentum went silent, Eleanor inwardlyughed as she had an idea on what Argentum was thinking. Nevertheless, she pretended that she did not know what was going on inside his head as she said in a slightly horrified tone, ¡°First of all, the Grand Blue Inheritance isposed of 10 trials, with each trial being exponentially harder than the previous one. I was lucky that I was given the choice to escape the inheritance at around the 6th trial. If I wasn¡¯t given that choice, I might have been dead by now.¡±

    Listening to Eleanor¡¯s exnation, a feeling of dread filled Argentum¡¯s body, making him rethink his decision of heading towards the Azure Shores to enter the Grand Blue Inheritance. Alongside this, the seed of doubt in his mind gradually becamerger as he continued to listen to Eleanor speak.

    ¡°To be honest, the first trial was already incredibly difficult,¡± Eleanor said, letting out a sigh as she radiated an aura that she was reminiscing those times. Taking in a deep breath, she continued, ¡°Although the mechanics of the first trial were hazy to me, I could still vividly remember its difficulty.¡±

    ¡°I presume that even a peak Rank 1 Animate would die from the sheer difficulty of this first round,¡± she added, sensing the intense fear that was radiating out of Argentum at this moment. As she noticed this, in her mind, she could not help but think, ¡®He¡¯s gonna ask me regarding the different inheritances in Azure Shores sooner orter.¡¯

    With that in mind, she inwardlyughed as she continued to speak in a slightly horrified tone, telling Argentum even more of her experiences regarding the Grand Blue Inheritance.

    ¡°You know, I wouldn¡¯t rmend someone at your level to head to the Grand Blue Inheritance,¡± Eleanor said. ¡°You might get lucky in these first few trials, but what if your luck runs out? Who else would you me in that situation but yourself?¡±

    ¡°Uh¡­¡± At this point, the fear Argentum felt had reached the level of fear he had felt inside the me Spirit Inheritance when he had just badmouthed Eleanor. Mustering up his courage, he timidly asked her, ¡°Um¡­can I uh¡­can you tell me about the uh¡­other inheritances in Azure Shores¡­?¡±

    ¡°Hoh?¡± Eleanor uttered as an aura of slight fury radiated from her before saying, ¡°Didn¡¯t you agree that once you heard about my experiences from the inheritance, you wouldn¡¯t opt to head into another inheritance instead? Are you breaking our agreement?¡±

    ¡°Well, I¡­er¡­¡± Argentum said in a stuttering manner, not knowing what to say in response to the words. Just as he found the right words to say though, Eleanor started tough loudly, confusing Argentum as the intense fear he felt subsided, prompting him to ask her, ¡°What¡¯s so funny?¡±

    ¡°Your reaction,¡± Eleanor responded to his question as she continued tough. At this moment, Argentum felt intense confusion rather than fear since he did not know what made Eleanorugh. Fortunately, she stoppedughing after quite some time, letting out a sigh as she said, ¡°And I thought I couldn¡¯t make you be fearful for the safety of your life again. Everything I¡¯ve said about the Grand Blue Inheritance has been fake.¡±

    ¡°Huh?¡± Argentum could only utter this sound in response to what she had said, taking quite a long time to process the words she had said in her mind. After fully processing it, he focused his sense of vision towards her and asked with slight uncertainty, ¡°So¡­everything you said so far¡­was fake?¡±

    ¡°Yep, as fake as it could be.¡± Eleanor nodded in response to Argentum¡¯s words. Hearing those words, Argentum could not help but let out a huge sigh of relief as he asked with a hint of infuriation, ¡°Why did you have to scare me though?¡±

    ¡°Well, why not?¡± she responded to his question in a slightly teasing note, letting out a light chuckle afterward. At this moment, Argentum could not help but be dejected as he realized that he fell for lies, sitting on the hot ground in a cross-legged fashion. Eleanor looked at the dejected Argentum for a bit before feeling slight remorse for her actions, deciding toe closer to Argentum before cing her hand on his shoulder as she apologized.

    ¡°Alright, I apologize for what I¡¯ve done,¡± Eleanor said as an apology before adding, ¡°I won¡¯t do something like this ever again.¡±

    ¡°How can I be so sure that you would keep your word though?¡± Argentum asked her, still in a dejected mood. This question made Eleanor ponder over the answer for a bit, eventuallying up with a good one a few secondster as she answered, ¡°I¡¯ll seriously tell you everything I know about the inheritance, plus I¡¯ll even tell you some tips to make the clearing process easier.¡±

    As his sense of hearing perked up from the word ¡®tips¡¯, Argentum focused his sense of vision towards her as he asked her one more time, ¡°Promise?¡±

    ¡°I promise,¡± Eleanor said in a solemn tone, prompting Argentum to let out a sigh as he stood up, facing Eleanor. Scratching his head, he then went ahead and asked her, ¡°So¡­are you truly going to tell me everything you know about the inheritance?¡±

    ¡°Yeah.¡± Eleanor nodded in response to his words before adding, ¡°First off, although I did say that the Grand Blue Inheritance has a 99.9% death rate, in reality, it isn¡¯t that far off, having a death rate of 80 percent.¡±

    ¡°80 percent¡­¡± Argentum could not help but repeat this in his mind a few times, eventually calming himself down as he reassured himself, thinking that a 1 in 5 chance of survival was far better than a 1 in 1000 chance of survival.

    ¡°As for the number of trials the inheritance has, at the time I took it, it had a total of 5 trials,¡± she continued exining the mechanics of the inheritance before adding, ¡°Oh, right. Unlike what I did for you in my inheritance, the master of this inheritance is more or less impartial, giving every inheritor the same type of trials.¡±

    ¡°Shouldn¡¯t it be like that in the first ce?¡± Argentum could not help but ask her, to which Eleanor responded, ¡°Want me to turn you into a pile of ashes?¡±

    In response to that, Argentum went silent as she continued to exin what she knew regarding the Grand Blue Inheritance, only for her to be interrupted by Argentum as a thought regarding the previous statement she said popped up in his mind, prompting him to ask her, ¡°So¡­you¡¯re telling me that the master of the Grand Blue Inheritance is alive as well?¡±

    ¡°Indeed, he¡¯s still alive.¡± Eleanor nodded in response to his question before adding, ¡°And that¡¯s what you¡¯ll be relying on to make the clearing process easier.¡±

    ¡°Hm?¡± Hearing that the fact that the master was still alive would help him out, he could not help but be confused as to how that would happen. Fortunately, it did not take long for Eleanor to exin the reasoning behind it, telling him, ¡°To be honest, the master of the Grand Blue Inheritance and I have been friends for a long time already.¡±

    ¡°I see¡­¡± Argentum said in response to Eleanor¡¯s words, only for him to realize what Eleanor was trying to imply. Though he was unsure as to whether or not his train of thought was correct, he went ahead and asked her, ¡°In other words, you want me to inform the master of the Grand Blue Inheritance beforehand that I¡¯m rted to you?¡±

    ¡°Well yes, but not in a straightforward manner. That would just make him more suspicious of you,¡± she sinctly replied to his question as she added, ¡°The two of us have a code word that we¡¯ve decided toe up with in the off chance that we ever have students we want to make stronger.¡±

    ¡°Oh?¡± At this moment, Argentum¡¯s interest was piqued. He then asked her, ¡°Could you tell me the code word, Eleanor?¡±

    ¡°Well, that¡¯s what I n to do in the first ce,¡± Eleanor said in response to Argentum¡¯s words, letting out a light chuckle as she went closer to him, using her energy to scan for any beings near them. After making sure that there were no beings near them, she then cupped her hands around her mouth as she whispered near Argentum¡¯s sense of hearing, informing him of the code word¡­or rather, code phrase.

    Hearing it for the first time, Argentum could not believe that this was the code phrase the two have agreed upon. It took Eleanor a few repeats in order for Argentum tomit the code phrase into his memory, slightly feeling embarrassed for Eleanor as he asked her, ¡°Are you seriously sure that that¡¯s the code word?¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s what we¡¯ve agreed upon, trust me on this one,¡± Eleanor responded with an aura of confidence surrounding her. She then added, ¡°As long as you say the code word before you start the inheritance, you would have a 50% chance of clearing the whole trial while the quality of the rewards you get will be enhanced as well.¡±

    ¡°Eh? Are you serious?¡± Argentum could not believe that a code phrase like that would increase not only his survival rate, but the quality of his rewards as well. At this point, he made sure to never forget the code word Eleanor told him again and again since it seemed that he would rely on this quite a lot.

    ¡°Yeah, I¡¯m not lying to you on this one,¡± Eleanor responded with the same aura of confidence surrounding her. Scratching his head, he then said, ¡°Alright then, if you say so. I guess I¡¯ll go ahead and head to the Azure Shores then.¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t die, okay?¡± Eleanor responded to his words with words of concern. She then added, ¡°If you die, then I¡¯ll be weaker.¡±

    ¡°You can just teleport to me at any time though,¡± Argentum said in response to his words before letting out a light chuckle. He then added, ¡°I¡¯ll try my best to not need your help.¡±

    And with that, Argentum went ahead and opened up a map through the system, marking the path he would have to take in order to get to the Azure Shores as fast as possible. Just as he was about to set off for his departure from the Inferno ins, Eleanor could not help but tell him, ¡°I¡¯d suggest you use [me Companion] right now. I¡¯m definitely sure that you¡¯lle across some native beings in these ins along the way.¡±

    She then added, ¡°Use your powers to get them to near death and let yourpanion deal the final blow. You might not know this, but it gains twice as much experience as long as the enemy it has defeated is of the same element.¡±

    In response to this, Argentum went silent for a bit as he stayed in ce, pondering about her words for a bit. It took around a minute or so of pondering for Argentum to respond to her words, saying, ¡°I¡¯ll keep that in mind.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll be leaving then,¡± he said not long after as he raised his arm, waving it left to right to say goodbye to Eleanor.

    And so, under the dim rays of the moonlight far away from the peak, Argentum had officially done all he needed to do in the Inferno ins, now off to head towards the Azure Shores, armed with the newfound powers he had obtained from the me Spirit Inheritance.

    As for Eleanor, she looked at his fleeting silhouette for a while before muttering to herself with intense concern, ¡°You better stay safe, Argentum. Don¡¯t die on me, okay?¡±

    Whoosh!

    After that, she turned around and hastily went back to the abandoned building, heading inside the me Spirit Inheritance. And just like that, it was as if nothing had happened in the inner area of the Inferno ins in the first ce.

 Chapter 237: A Small Detour

    Chapter 237: A Small Detour

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    Around twenty minutes or so have passed since Argentum had parted ways with Eleanor, bringing along with him the code phrase he learned from her, as well as the new skills he had obtained from the inheritance. As of right now, he had already exited the inner area of the Inferno ins, feeling that the aura radiated by the outer area of the Inferno ins was akin to a fleeting breeze, unlike the inner area.

    ¡°Then again, my me resistance is at a pretty high level right now,¡± Argentum muttered to himself as he thought about it. ¡°Once it reaches the peak of Transcendent level, I¡¯m pretty sure I¡¯d be able to stupefy any being inclined towards the Fire element that¡¯s eyeing me.¡±

    As heughed at the thought of the shocked faces of the beings once they found out that he was more or less immune to Fire-based attacks, Argentum continued to move about, this time at greater speeds. Although his original movement speed was already pretty fast with [Zephyr Ascendance+] and [Zephyr Burst], his current speed was further enhanced thanks to him obtaining partial ownership of the me Spirit Inheritance.

    ¡°Now that I think about it, how much of a boost does the title even give me?¡± he asked himself as the thoughte to mind. Although the greater portion of his attention was still focused on the map he had conjured from the system, marking the shortest route he would have to take to reach the Azure Shores, he still could not help but think about it since he had not checked.

    Fwoosh!

    With the urge to check the effects of his newly obtained title gradually intensifying, Argentum decided to stop and check his title rather than suppress the urge, stopping at an area of the Inferno ins that was close to the area where he obtained his [me Resistance] skill. Noticing that this was the case, Argentum could not help but subconsciously shiver, remembering therge number of slimes he had killed.

    ¡°Then again, I have over a million unused experience points right now so I guess it wasn¡¯t all that bad,¡± Argentum muttered to himself to remove the slight fear he had towards the area. Although the Fire Slimes were only at the lowest rank of the Animate existence level, thus only giving fellow Animates a few experience points, to Argentum at the Pseudo-Animate level, it was amplified by a hundred due to the conversion factor. Add in the fact that he killed a lot of Fire Slimes to raise [Incredibly Inferior me Resistance] to its final form, then it wouldn¡¯t be weird for him to have such a great amount of experience points.

    He then went ahead andmanded the system to open up the description regarding the title he had obtained, pondering as to how much of a boost in stats he truly obtained from it. He did remember that when Eleanor asked him as to how much stronger he had be after obtaining the title, he told her that he felt like he had be twice as strong than before, but that was only a feeling. Sometimes, what he felt differed from what the system told him.

    Ding!

    Soon after, a holographic screen regarding the description of the title had soon appeared in front of his field of vision. At first, he was quite enthralled by the vor text that came along with the title, letting out a giggle at times as it more or less narrated what happened between the two of them. But then, after his sense of vision focused on the lines that told of the title¡¯s effect, he could not help but ponder the boost that Aurus had obtained from the Area 52 Inheritance, only for him to realize that the boost he had received was slightly bigger than Aurus¡¯s.

    ¡°Although I don¡¯t know how much of the inheritance Aurus has control over, I have a hunch that it might be less than mine. Around 5% or something?¡± Argentum muttered to himself as he thought out loud. ¡°Taking that into consideration, then the boost I obtained for every percent of the inheritance I control is far greater than what Aurus has!¡±

    ________

    [me Spirit Inheritance: Partial Ownership]

    A title given by the master of the me Spirit Inheritance, Eleanor, after being asked by the user if it was possible for him to obtain partial ownership of the inheritance since it was said that Eleanor could grant almost any wish he had. Surprisingly, Eleanor did not decline the user¡¯s wish, allowing him to even decide on how much percentage he wanted control over, only for the user to respond that it was up to her on how much of the inheritance he had control over. As ofte, the user has control over 35% of the me Spirit Inheritance.

    > Increases all stats by 70%

    ________

    ¡°70 percent, huh¡­¡± Argentum muttered to himself as he closed the holographic screen after he was finished reading, pondering on how much a 70% increase truly was. After pondering over for a few minutes, he concluded that if he were to face the humans that were out to kill him for their own gain with such a boost, then he would not even need to hide in front of them, fighting against them head-on. And that¡¯s without the skills he had evolved as ofte!

    With his curiosity regarding the title he had obtained now satiated, Argentum unhesitatingly went ahead and looked at the map again, calcting his current location. After doing so, he then continued to run along the markings he made on the map, allowing him to move through the Inferno ins at great speeds once more.

    He continued to do this for around ten minutes or so, his current location now more or less away from the area filled with Fire Slimes and more or less close to the boundary of the Inferno ins that led to the wilderness again. Just as he was pondering as to whether or not he should grind all of his skills to the next level, a thought rted to Eleanor appeared in his mind, prompting him to stop just as he was about 10 kilometers or so away from the boundary.

    ¡°Hmm¡­even though Eleanor and I are quite far apart, the connection I feel from her through the contract is still strong,¡± Argentum could not help but mutter, closing his sense of vision as he used his other senses to sense the feeling of the connection he had with Eleanor. While he was doing so, another thought rted to Eleanor appeared in his mind. This time, this thought was of that regarding what Eleanor told him before he left her to head to the Azure Shores.

    Surprisingly, this thought soon became the only thought that circted in his mind, prompting him to open his sense of vision once more as his focus of vision turned to look at the direction of the area where the Fire Slimes resided, causing him to slightly shudder, which disappeared not long after. He pondered over the thought for a bit and asked himself, ¡°Should I go ahead and do what Eleanor told me to do? Should I go use [me Companion]?¡±

    The reason why he did not unhesitatingly decide to do it was because of the ce he was going to, the Azure Shores. The Azure Shores, from the name alone, could make one instantly infer that the ce was superbly inclined to the Water element, which meant that anything that was inclined towards the Fire element would be heavily disadvantaged there.

    The train of thought in his mind was that if he did create a me Companion and nurtured it to a decent level, then it would be more or less a burden to him once he did enter the Azure Shores. Of course, he thought about it from a different perspective, thinking that a me Companion would allow him to focus on his specialties while it would focus on the parts where he wascking, like reconnaissance or debuffing or whatever. Then again, in front of the elemental disadvantage in the Azure Shores, the cons outweighed the pros¡­until a question he asked the system in the past surfaced in his mind.

    ¡°Ah, right. The system did tell me that I could keep the me Companions I made inside the system,¡± Argentum muttered to himself, only for his thoughts to head towards an optimistic direction soon after. Thinking about these optimistic thoughts, an aura of happiness started to radiate from him, then an aura of tion, then an aura of intense tion. It did not take long for these thoughts to affect Argentum¡¯s opinion regarding the me Companions, with his current conclusion being¡­the pros of a me Companion outweighed the cons!

    ¡°Why am I so focused on the Azure Shores, I should think about it from a long term perspective,¡± he muttered to himself with a mocking chuckle. ¡°Although a me Companion would be useless in Water-based areas, that doesn¡¯t mean they would be useless in the other elemental areas as well.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s it, I¡¯m going to head back!¡± Argentum shouted inwardly as he turned his body around without hesitation, setting a new marker on the map he had as he dashed towards it at maximum speed. Where was he heading? The only ce where a low-leveledpanion would be able to obtain experience without worrying about death. The ce where he would subconsciously shudder if he remembered it.

    The area of the Fire Slimes.

    ¡­

    Taking around ten minutes or so to get back to the boundary of the Fire Slime area, Argentum could not help but slightly shudder once his field of vision was filled to the brim with the sight of the Fire Slimes yet again. Fortunately, he tricked his subconscious to calm down, repeating the thought that he was here to raise the power of his me Companion and not grind the [me Resistance] skill.

    After repeating this thought in his mind for a few times, he took in a deep breath before letting out a long sigh, looking at the Fire Slimes that were jumping as their bodies jiggled with an indifferent aura. Surprisingly, if one sensed Argentum¡¯s aura closely, one would even feel that behind the indifference was a hint of excitement. As for the reason as to what caused Argentum to be slightly excited, it was unknown.

    ¡°We meet once again, Fire Slimes,¡± Argentum muttered to himself, letting out a snicker filled with slight malevolent intent in it afterward. He then added, ¡°Fortunately for you, I¡¯m not here to kill all of you to obtain a skill again.??

    ¡°[me Companion]!¡± Argentum soon said with slight fervor, eliciting a response from the system as a notification screen resounded in his mind, telling him that his MP had been consumed. A few secondster, a mass of Fire energy particles started to manifest along a certain radius around him, prompting Argentum to think that this was the creation process of a me Companion.

    Swoosh! Swoosh!

    Soon after, these Fire energy particles soon coalesced at an area a few meters away from Argentum, transforming into a ball made out of Fire energy particles. No, wait. To be more exact, it looked like a ball made of Fire energy particles at first, but after a while, it exuded a few of the properties of a liquid, making Argentum think that this ball of fire was more like a blob of fire.

    ¡®A blob of fire¡­are you telling me that I got a Fire Slime as apanion?¡¯ Argentum thought to himself, but after using his senses to examine the blob of fire, he found that that was not the case. Just as he pondered on what he had to do next, a holographic screen appeared on top of the blob of fire, prompting Argentum to focus his field of vision on it as he skimmed through its contents.

    ¡°What would you like to name your me Companion?¡± Argentum said as he read the question on the screen. He looked at the blob of fire for a bit and soon pondered over possible names soon after that. At first, the names he had in mind were along the lines of Aurus¡¯s allies. Marielle, Terence, Eu, Phoria, Charisa, Fenrir, he could not help but think that his me Companion should have a good name as well.

    But then, he thought about these kinds of thoughts for a while, only for him to decide otherwise after some time. He could not help but think that if he gave his me Companion such a name, he would want his me Companion to be as strong as he was. Sure, he was aiming to be as strong as possible before bing a Super Animate since that was what he and Aurus wanted, but unlike Aurus, he felt that hispanions should have a choice on what they want to be. Of course, he would guide them at the start, but after that, he felt that letting them decide whether they wanted to grow stronger or not was better.

    ¡°Hmm¡­I should give it a name that¡¯s not that attention-grabbing then,¡± Argentum muttered to himself before adding, ¡°Then again, this name shouldn¡¯t be so mundane that it would make others feel like mypanion¡¯s weak¡­¡±

    ¡°No, wait. That would be better!¡± Thinking along that train of thought, Argentum let out a light cackle as he eventually thought up of a suitable name for his first me Companion.

    ¡°System!¡± Argentum said with a tone of tion and glee.

    ¡°I would like to name this me Companion¡­¡±

    ¡°Blob!¡±

 Chapter 238: How to Raise a Companion

    Chapter 238: How to Raise a Companion

    ¡°I would like to have Blob be the name of this me Companion,¡± Argentum said without hesitation after pondering over it for a while. Although the name he chose was quite straightforward due to the fact that his me Companion currently looked like a blob, he could not help butugh inwardly whenever he thought about fighting against someone, only for him to summon Blob. In his mind, a name like that would stupefy anyone he was up against.

    Then again, he did slightly feel bad that this me Companion of his had such a mundane name, but he was pretty sure that if this me Companion of his put in enough effort, the name Blob would definitely shock the world, just like how Argentum imagined that his name would shock the world once he became a Super Animate.

    Ding!

    As the system received Argentum¡¯s response, the holographic screen over the blob of fire soon disappeared as a few white particles manifested around it. Soon after, these few particles were absorbed by the blob of fire, increasing the intensity of its mes by quite a bit as Argentum felt a faint aura of vitalitying from the blob of fire. After a minute or so, this aura of vitality had stabilized to a certain point, which was apanied by a notification sound resounding in Argentum¡¯s mind.

    ¡®Your me Companion, Blob, has been created.¡¯

    Reading through the notification he had received, only for him to close it up after finding out that it was just informing him that his me Companion was created, Argentum then looked at the blob of fire in front of him, which slightly hovered off of the ground by a few centimeters or so. If it wasn¡¯t for the fact that Argentum that thispanion of his was created by the system, he would have thought that this blob of fire in front of him was a weak Fire-based Pseudo-Animate spirit.

    After looking at the blob of fire for some time, the blob of fire started to gradually move, inching closer and closer towards Argentum. This phenomenon slightly shocked Argentum for a split second, but he soon understood why the blob was doing it. In his mind, he thought that this blob had considered him as a master or benefactor in some way or another.

    Eventually, the blob of fire stopped just a couple decimeters away from him, its mes slightly intensifying as Argentum noticed that in the center of its body, a white energy was being formed. He could not help but focus his attention on this white energy and ponder to himself, ¡®What¡¯s this blob going to do with the white energy?¡¯

    Fortunately, the answer to that question came not long after the white energy inside the blob of fire was soon shot towards Argentum, filling his mind with bits of information regarding the blob of fire. Not only that, but the white energy the blob of fire shot out had also formed a connection between the two of them, allowing a childlike voice to resound throughout Argentum¡¯s mind not long after.

    ¡°Are you¡­my creator?¡± Hearing this question resound in his mind, Argentum opened and closed his sense of vision for a few times before looking at the blob of fire in front of him. As he looked at it, he sensed that it was radiating an aura of slight curiosity, prompting him to think that the one who asked this question¡­was actually the blob of fire he had made?

    ¡°Y-yeah, I am.¡± Surprised that apanion he had just made was able to converse with him, Argentum replied back with a slight stutter as he pondered over the reason why this newly madepanion of his was able to do so. It did not take long for him toe up with the thought that since he was a Pseudo-Animate, then that meant that the beginning level of hispanions would be at the Pseudo-Animate level as well, which was more than enough for apanion to start conversing with other beings.

    Hearing the response of Argentum, the blob of fire radiated an aura of happiness as it replied, ¡°I see! It¡¯s nice to meet you, Creator! My name is Blob!¡±

    As Argentum continued to look at Blob while listening to the voice that resounded in his mind, he could not help but think that Blob was a child in a few ways, making him lightly chuckle in glee as he responded, ¡°Nice to meet you as well, Blob. I may be your creator, but you can just call me Argentum.¡±

    ¡°Ar¡­gen¡­tum?¡± Blob repeated Argentum¡¯s name as a response, to which he responded with, ¡°Yes, Argentum. Is that fine with you?¡±

    ¡°If that¡¯s what Argentum wants, then that¡¯s what Blob will do!¡± Blob said in a cheerful tone. In response, Argentum let out a small giggle as he felt that creating apanion would make his future adventures less boring. Of course, he did not let this distract him from the fact that he made Blob right now so itsbat power would be higher in future situations. Sure, Blob would be a burden at the Azure Shores, but it wouldn¡¯t be a burden in other ces.

    Taking in a deep breath to reorganize his thoughts, he then went ahead and asked Blob, ¡°Is it fine if I check your stats, Blob?¡±

    ¡°Ah?¡± In response, Blob radiated an aura of slight curiosity, wondering why its creator asked it for its permission, even though its creator was the one who made it. Nevertheless, it responded with, ¡°Go ahead, Argentum! You can check my stats whenever you want to!¡±

    ¡°I see.¡± Argentum let out a lightugh as he said, ¡°d to know.¡±

    ¡°System, identify Blob,¡± he said after obtaining Blob¡¯s consent, a notification sound resounding in his mind not long after as a holographic screen appeared in front of his field of vision, detailing Blob¡¯s stats.

    ________

    [Blob] (Level 1/10)

    Experience: 0/100

    Existence Level: Pseudo-Animate (Normal)

    Species: Inferior me Spirit

    ¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª

    [HP]: 1/1

    [MP]: 1/1

    ¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª

    Stats:

    Vitality ¨C 1

    Strength ¨C 1

    Defense ¨C 1

    Agility ¨C 1

    Intelligence ¨C 1

    ________

    ¡°It looks just like my stat screen when I started out,¡± Argentum muttered to himself, pondering how much of an increase in stats maxing out the [me Companion] skill would give if he made a newpanion. He also pondered as to how he would increase the experience of the [me Companion] skill, but decided to put it in the back of his mind as he closed the holographic screen in front of him, focusing his sense of vision towards Blob yet again.

    ¡°Why did you check my stats, Argentum?¡± Blob asked him after noticing that he was not preupied with something anymore. In response, Argentum said to it, ¡°I just wanted to see how strong you were before fighting against those Fire Slimes right there.¡±

    As he said this, Argentum pointed towards the Fire Slimes that roamed around the area they were currently in, instantly instilling a sense of fear within Blob as it shouted at Argentum, saying, ¡°You want me to fight them? But they¡¯re too strong! I¡¯m incredibly weak! I can¡¯t deal damage to them!¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s why I¡¯m here to help you out,¡± Argentum said as he chuckled, radiating an aura of confidence. Sensing this aura of confidence radiating from its creator, Blob¡¯s fears were gradually suppressed as it asked him, ¡°How are you going to help me out?¡±

    ¡°By bringing them to near death,¡± he responded sinctly. He then added, ¡°The reason why I want you to fight against them is because I want you to be stronger. You also want to be stronger, right?¡±

    ¡°Of course I do, Argentum!¡± Blob replied to his question before adding, ¡°I would be d to fight by your side but it¡¯s just that¡­¡±

    Continuing with its statement, an aura of slight inferiority emanated from it as it continued, ¡°I¡¯m still too weak.¡±

    ¡°You won¡¯t be weak for long, Blob. Trust me,¡± Argentum said to bring Blob¡¯s morale up. Surprisingly, those words were enough to return Blob to its original self. Seeing that, he went ahead and started to move towards the Fire Slimes, gesturing Blob to follow him, to which it did.

    While the two of them were heading towards the Fire Slimes, making sure that the first one they went up against was far away from the others, Argentum could not help but ponder over something. After some time, he found out that he could note to a conclusion, prompting him to ask the system on this one.

    ¡°System, is it possible for me to allocate Blob my unused experience points just like in the Ally feature?¡± This was the thought that was guing his mind right now. If he was able to do so, then it would just be a matter of allocating enough points for Blob to grow strong enough before going ahead and allowing it to fend off for itself.

    Ding!

    It did not take long for the system to respond to his question, the system¡¯s feminine-sounding voice resounding in his mind as it said, ¡°Due to the user¡¯spanion being made from a skill and not from the system itself, the user cannot allocate unused experience points towards thepanion.¡±

    ¡°I guess it was worth a shot,¡± Argentum muttered to himself as they continued to traverse the area for a stray Fire Slime, eventually finding one after a few minutes or so.

    The two of them stood quite a distance away from this stray Fire Slime, making sure to not alert it of their presence. Looking at the Fire Slime in front of it, Blob could not help butpare its size to the Fire Slime¡¯s, pondering as to how it would be able to deal damage to such arge creature. On the other hand, Argentum ignored Blob¡¯s internal queries for now as he focused his sense of vision towards this Fire Slime, prompting a screen to appear in front of his field of vision not long after.

    Only taking a short time to skim through it, Argentum could not help but imitate the sound of a being clicking their tongue as he thought, ¡®So I was actually dealing too much damage to it, huh?¡¯

    ________

    [Fire Slime]

    Existence Level: Animate (Rank 0)

    ¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª

    [HP]: 1/1

    ________

    Although he could not check its stats, Argentum was incredibly sure that its defense leaned more towards the physical side rather than the magical side, allowing him to deal tons of damage to its core through an elementally disadvantaged spell.

    He then started to mutter to himself, thinking out loud as he said, ¡°Due to the difference in existence level, I must treat the Fire Slime¡¯s HP bar as 100 points instead of 1. I shouldn¡¯t use [Zephyr Ascendance+] and the stronger spells of [Lower Tempest Magic+] and [Lower ze Magic+] since that would just kill the Fire Slime in one shot, thus rendering it this outing to be useless.¡±

    With that being said, he then went ahead and pondered over the remaining portion in his mind, which prompted Blob to look at him with slight curiosity, wondering what its creator was currently thinking about. Fortunately, it did not take long for him to finish formting a strategy in mind to whittle down the Fire Slime¡¯s HP to a level where Blob would be able to kill it in one shot.

    Thinking that there was a great chance for this strategy to be feasible, Argentum looked at Blob and said, ¡°Stay here for a while. I¡¯ll give you a signal on when to attack the Fire Slime, okay?¡±

    ¡°Alright, Argentum,¡± Blob said with a tone of slight uncertainty. ¡°Are you really sure I can fight against something like that?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m sure,¡± Argentum responded with a tone of slight tion and expectation. ¡°Just make sure to aim for the red orb in its center.¡±

    ¡°If you say so, Argentum,¡± Blob said in response to his words, only for Argentum to hastily dash towards the stray Fire Slime he was eyeing a while ago.

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    In a matter of a few seconds, Argentum was able to decrease the gap between the two of them as he raised his right hand, conjuring a ball of fire not long after. Unsurprisingly, this action of his attracted the attention of the Fire Slime, incurring its wrath as it went ahead and leaped to its fullest extent, wanting to crush Argentum with the weight of its body.

    Seeing that the Fire Slime took the initiative to leap and crush his body, Argentum radiated an aura of slight tion and glee as he adjusted the position of his right hand, making sure that the fireball in his hands would collide with the Fire Slime¡¯s core.

    At the very instant the Fire Slime¡¯s body collided with Argentum¡¯s fireball, he shouted, ¡°[Lower ze Magic: Fire Ball]!¡±

    ¡°Burst!¡±

    Fwoosh!

    In an instant, the fireball Argentum was holding exploded, dealing a lot of damage to the Fire Slime as its momentum was abruptly halted and even reversed, flinging the Fire Slime closer to Blob.

    Ding!

    ¡®You have dealt 99 HP damage to [Fire Slime]!¡¯ Obtaining a notification that the Fire Slime only had 1 HP left, Argentum could not help but let out a chuckle as he thought, ¡®I guess luck is on my side!¡¯

    ¡°Blob, go and attack the Fire Slime!¡± Just before the Fire Slime couldnd on the ground and retaliate from his attack, Argentum shouted at Blob, to which Blob hastily responded, ¡°Alright, Argentum!¡±

    Whoosh!

    Since the trajectory of the Fire Slime was heading was somewhat close to where Blob was, Blob only adjusted its position by a bit as it sent out a small ball of me towards the red orb inside the Fire Slime, just like how Argentum instructed it to do so.

    Fwoosh!

    At the instant the two collided, the gtinous body of the Fire Slime instantly transformed into a puddle as the red orb inside it shattered into pieces. On the other hand, after the Fire Slime died from its attack, Blob instantly felt like it had grown a few notches stronger as its size swelled by a few notches as well.

    Ding!

    ¡®Blob has dealt thest blow to [Fire Slime].¡¯

    ¡®Blob has obtained 1000 XP.¡¯

    ¡®Blob has leveled up to Level 5!¡¯

 Chapter 239: The Path Taken

    Chapter 239: The Path Taken

    Ding!

    ¡®Blob has dealt thest blow to [Fire Slime].¡¯

    ¡®Blob has obtained 1000 XP.¡¯

    ¡®Blob has leveled up to Level 5!¡¯

    As notifications regarding Blob and itsst blow to the Fire Slime resounded in his mind, Argentum could not help but radiate an aura of tion as he focused his sense of vision towards Blob, slightly surprised that leveling up also affected Blob¡¯s appearance as well.

    It was a given that the aura radiated Blob would grow by a fewrge notches after increasing its level to Level 5. As for Blob¡¯s appearance, it wasn¡¯t mentioned by the system that levels would affect it as well. Nevertheless, Blob¡¯s appearance has indeed changed, transforming into a slightlyrger blob where the origin of its mes became more solid. At this point, Argentum felt that Blob now had a bit of mass.

    Of course, the one that was most surprised was Blob itself. Radiating an aura of shock after realizing that it had dealt the blow that would ultimately kill the Fire Slime for good, Blob could not believe that it actually did that. Soon after, it then felt that a great amount of energy was coursing throughout its body, increasing its size to a considerable degree while it felt that it could summon more strength from its body.

    After the transformation from the level up was over, Blob went ahead and moved its body, trying to gauge how much strength it now had whenpared to before. Finding it that the amount of strength it now had was over 5 times as much as its previous strength, Blob could not help but focus his sense of vision towards Argentum, who was slightly far away from it, and say, ¡°Argentum! I did it!¡±

    ¡°Yeah, you did,¡± Argentum replied to Blob¡¯s words as he let out a gleeful chuckle. He then made his way to where Blob was before asking it, ¡°Do you feel that you have more strength to fight against the Fire Slimes?¡±

    Blob pondered over his question for a bit before saying with a solemn tone, ¡°I do feel that I have more strength, Argentum. But when Ipare it to the strength the Fire Slime exuded, even though it was already at the brink of death, I still feel like the current strength I have is nowhere near enough.¡±

    ¡°Little by little.¡± Argentumughed as he felt slightly surprised that Blob would be serious all of a sudden. ¡°You¡¯ll eventually see yourself killing these slimes with a single attack of yours. Don¡¯t you want that to happen as well?¡±

    ¡°Of course I do!¡± As if it was a 180 degree turn, the solemnity Argentum felt from Blob was instantly reced with glee and expectation as it replied. But just as Argentum thought that Blob was back to its old self, it added a few more words in its previous solemn tone, saying, ¡°Then again, I can¡¯t help but feel bad that I¡¯m relying on your strength to grow my strength, Argentum.¡±

    ¡°You don¡¯t have to worry about it, Blob,¡± Argentum replied to his words after pondering over what the best response would be. ¡°Think of it as me nurturing you. Once you be strong enough, you can fight against on your own and increase your strength even further without me helping you. By then, wouldn¡¯t I be the one relying on you because you¡¯re incredibly strong?¡±

    Blob could not help but ponder over Argentum¡¯s words for a bit before letting out a chuckle. It then said, ¡°I guess I¡¯ll treat it that way then!¡±

    After that, the two then went ahead and moved towards another part of the area in order to find another stray Fire Slime. Due to Blob leveling up, the time it took for them to find such a Fire Slime had significantly lessened, only taking around a couple of minutes for them to find one. At the instant they found one, Argentum told Blob to keep doing what it was doing, to which Blob radiated an aura of affirmation as a response.

    Whoosh!

    Just like before, Argentum went ahead and attracted the attention of this Fire Slime through the usage of [Lower ze Magic+], conjuring a fireball that made the slime leap towards him in order to crush his body. Of course, Argentum wasn¡¯t going to have any of that, repositioning his raised hand with the fireball to collide with the core of the Fire Slime.

    ¡°Burst!¡±

    Bang!

    Unfortunately, rather than obtaining a notification from the system that the Fire Slime was at critical death and seeing the Fire Slime being flung towards where Blob was, his sense of vision was instead filled with the sight of the core of the Fire Slime shattering into pieces as the gtinous body of the Fire Slime burst into pieces as well.

    Ding!

    With an aura of disbelief radiating from him, a notification sound resounded in his mind, to which he promptly opened soon after as he let out a sigh. He then muttered to himself, ¡°I guess you can¡¯t help this from happening.¡±

    After that, he went ahead and moved back to where Blob was as he read through the notification he had received.

    ¡®Critical! You have dealt 198 HP damage to [Fire Slime].¡¯

    ¡®You have obtained 500 XP.¡¯

    Just as he made his way to where Blob was, Blob radiated an aura of curiosity as it focused its sense of vision towards Argentum.

    ¡°What happened to the Fire Slime?¡± it asked Argentum. In response, Argentum took in a deep breath before saying, ¡°I dealt a critical hit to the Fire Slime.¡±

    ¡°Oh?¡± After hearing Argentum¡¯s words, it radiated an aura of awe before saying, ¡°Argentum is actually this powerful? Amazing!¡±

    Hearing Blob¡¯s response, Argentum was at a loss for words. At first, he thought that it would be slightly disappointed since in a way, he stole the experience it would get from killing the Fire Slime. But then, he remembered that Blob was apanion he made from a skill. It would be highly unlikely for apanion like it to harbor negative emotions towards Argentum. Of course, that did not mean Argentum was going to abuse this.

    ¡°Let¡¯s move onto another slime,¡± Argentum said not long after to snap Blob from its awe, which worked. After that, they went ahead and moved onto another part of the area filled with Fire Slimes, eventually finding one after another few minutes or so. Fortunately, this time, everything went as Argentum expected, with the Fire Slime being flung towards Blob through his fireball, while Blob would deal the final blow, allowing it to obtain experience.

    And so, the two continued to do this for quite some time, increasing Blob¡¯s level and strength with every Fire Slime they killed. Eventually, the two hade across their sixth stray Fire Slime, with Blob once again dealing the final blow to it.

    Ding!

    After seeing Blobnd the final blow on the Fire Slime they found, a notification sound resounded in his mind, which made Argentum unhesitatingly open the notification screen in his mind soon after. Reading through the notifications he had received for a short bit, he then closed it not long after before making his way to where Blob was with an aura of intense glee and excitement.

    ¡®Blob has dealt thest blow to [Fire Slime].¡¯

    ¡®Blob has obtained 1000 XP.¡¯

    ¡®Blob has reached the MAX level!¡¯

    Surprisingly, just as Argentum had arrived in front of Blob and was about to initiate the conversation, Blob was the one who initiated the conversation instead, saying to him in a gleeful tone, ¡°Argentum! I¡¯ve be really strong now!¡±

    ¡°You indeed have,¡± Argentum replied to its words in a slightly happy tone. He then asked Blob, ¡°Have you reached the max level, Blob?¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t know what that means, but¡­¡± Blob said in response to Argentum¡¯s words with slight uncertainty before continuing with a gleeful tone, saying, ¡°What I do know is that I feel like my strength has reached a limit, but I feel like I could break through this limit at any time!¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s good to hear!¡± Argentum responded to Blob¡¯s words before letting out a cackle. After that, he noticed the aura of slight uncertainty radiating from Blob after its response, prompting him to ponder over it for a bit. Thinking that it might be rted to its evolution, which it meant by it breaking through its limit at any time, he then asked him, ¡°What¡¯s wrong? Is there something wrong with breaking through your limits?¡±

    ¡°There¡¯s no problem with that all,¡± Blob said as it radiated an aura of denial. ¡°It¡¯s just that¡­I have three paths of power to choose from.¡±

    ¡°Oh?¡± Argentum was slightly intrigued by this, remembering that Aurus¡¯s Allies weren¡¯t like that, only having a single path of evolution they could take. It was then that he remembered that Blob was apanion made from a skill and not from the system, which meant that Blob was different from them.

    Nevertheless, he wanted to help Blob out so he asked it, ¡°Could you let me see the choices you have?¡±

    ¡°Sure,¡± Blob replied sinctly in response to Argentum¡¯s words before a mass of energy started forming at the center of its body. This mass of energy was then shot out towards Argentum¡¯s body, bringing along an influx of information which Argentum processed in his mind. After doing so, he then asked the system if it could show the information he had just received through a holographic screen, to which the system instantlyplied with as a holographic screen appeared in front of his field of vision not long after.

    Whoosh!

    ¡®I¡¯m more used to see information in this manner,¡¯ Argentum thought to himself before putting his full focus on the choices Blob had when it came to evolving. Surprisingly, the choices Blob had were akin to the choices Aurus had when he was evolving from C-grade Inanimate to B-grade Inanimate from his memories. Of course, that was excluding the Special ss he had ess to.

    ________

    Possible evolution paths:

    [Lesser me Spirit of Power]

    [Lesser me Spirit of Defense]

    [Lesser me Spirit of Magic]

    ________

    From the names alone, Argentum already had a hunch on what these paths entailed. He did not need the system to bring up the specific information of each ss because of it. He then muttered to himself, thinking out loud, ¡°A path of bing specialized in closebat, a path of bing specialized in defense, and a path of bing specialized in ranged magical warfare.¡±

    As he pondered over these three choices some more, Argentum soon realized that he could not choose the ideal path for Blob to choose. If these choices were his own evolution choices, then it would be a different matter since he had an idea on what path he had. Indeed, the reason why he could not choose Blob¡¯s ideal path was because he did not know what kind of path Blob wanted to take.

    Closing the holographic screen in front of his field of vision, Argentum noticed that Blob was looking at him with slight expectation. In response to it, he only let out an awkward chuckle as he said, ¡°I¡¯m sorry for getting your hopes up for a bit. It seems I cannot make a choice for you on what evolution path you want to take.¡±

    ¡°I see¡­¡± Blob said in response to his words in understanding, before going ahead and pondering over something for a bit. After sometime,it looked at Argentum and asked it, ¡°Well, could you guide me on what¡¯s the best path to take instead?¡±

    ¡°Guide¡­¡± Argentum muttered this word before letting out a light chuckle. Although he was not able to choose a path for Blob since he did not know what it would like to be, he was fine with guiding Blob to make a decision. In other words, he was fine with making Blob realizing the path of power it wanted to traverse.

    ¡°First off, what kind of power do you want to have?¡± Argentum asked Blob. He then added, ¡°Do you want to use a power that allows you to deal damage to others with your body, or do you want to use a power that allows you to protect others with your body? Perhaps you want a power that allows you to deal damage from afar?¡±

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡± Blob pondered over Argentum¡¯s words for a bit before saying, ¡°To be honest, I don¡¯t know. All of them seem like a good path to take. How about you, Argentum? What path did you take?¡±

    ¡°The path that allows me to deal damage from afar,¡± Argentum unhesitatingly replied. ¡°With such a power, I could protect those precious to me, as well as kill thosemit great evils while being far away from them.¡±

    ¡°I see,¡± Blob said in response to his reply, maintaining silence for a bit. After some time, it could not help but let out an awkward chuckle, saying, ¡°It¡¯s actually hard to choose a path to take. I just realized.¡±

    ¡°Take your time. No rush,¡± Argentum said in response to Blob¡¯s words, feeling that Blob might feel constrained in its choices with Argentum around. While looking at Blob, a thought surfaced on his mind, thinking that it would be a good question that could guide Blob in its choice.

    ¡°Here¡¯s another question, Blob,¡± he said to attract Blob¡¯s attention. ¡°What do you want to do?¡±

    ¡°Well that¡­¡± Blob replied, only for it to stop midway as it pondered over it. After a minute or so, Blob then said, ¡°I would like to be of use to Argentum and stay by your side. Is that¡­a wrong answer?¡±

    ¡°There¡¯s no wrong answers.¡± Argentum chuckled in response. ¡°I kind of appreciate that you feel that way, Blob.¡±

    In response to his words, Blob radiated an aura of happiness as it continued to ponder over it. Eventually, around ten minutes or so have passed. At this moment, an aura of conviction and determination radiated from Blob as it focused its sense of vision towards Argentum.

    Noticing this, Argentum radiated an aura of slight expectation, asking it, ¡°Have you made your decision?¡±

    ¡°Yes,¡± Blob replied. ¡°I¡¯ve chosen¡ª¡±

    Just as Blob was about to tell Argentum its choice, he interrupted it by saying, ¡°Don¡¯t tell me your choice right now. Tell me after you evolve.¡±

    At first, Blob was quite confused as to why Argentum did not want it to be said, but then, it realized after a moment of pondering, letting out a chuckle as it said, ¡°Alright then. I¡¯ll go and evolve now.¡±

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    After that, a great mass of Fire energy particles started to manifest around Blob¡¯s body, intensifying the aura that it was radiating from the start. Fortunately, they were quite far away from the other Fire Slimes so Argentum did not have to worry about alerting them.

    Ding!

    As he continued to look at Blob¡¯s evolution, a notification sound resounded in his mind, prompting him to open up the notification screen soon after. He then went ahead and skimmed through it, radiating an aura of slight shock, which was soon reced with glee as he muttered, ¡°So that¡¯s your choice, huh.¡±

    ¡°I respect that.¡±

    ¡®Blob is in the process of evolution!¡¯

    ¡®Blob has chosen the path of¡­¡¯

 Chapter 240: The Synergistic Duo

    Chapter 240: The Synergistic Duo

    Ding!

    ¡®Blob is in the process of evolution!¡¯

    ¡®Blob has chosen the path of [Lesser me Spirit of Defense]!¡¯

    Skimming through the notifications he had received from Blob¡¯s evolution process, Argentum radiated an aura of slight shock as he did not expect Blob to choose that path at all, which gradually transformed into an aura of glee as he muttered, ¡°So you¡¯ve chosen that, huh.¡±

    ¡°I respect that,¡± he continued to mutter as he looked at Blob gradually evolve to the path he had chosen. The mass of Fire energy particles that had surrounded him at the start of his evolution process had now be Blob¡¯s arms and limbs. Not only that, but the Fire energy particles had also helped Blob form a torso that would help him control these arms and limbs. The only thing that would be connected to Blob¡¯s previous form would be his head, which still moved like a blob of fire, hovering over his torso.

    Fwoosh!

    After his head was formed, Blob¡¯s evolution process was over, focusing his sense of vision towards Argentum as he said, ¡°I¡¯ve evolved, Argentum!¡±

    ¡°Yeah, I can see that,¡± Argentum said in response to his words, a slightly gleeful tone enveloping every word. With an aura of glee still emanating from him, although he knew what path Blob already chose, he still decided to ask Blob, ¡°So¡­what path of power did you choose?¡±

    ¡°Er¡­I chose the path of sacrificing my body to protect others,¡± Blob said, at first with a confident tone before finishing with an uncertain one. He then asked in a slightly meek tone, ¡°Did I¡­make the wrong choice?¡±

    ¡°Well¡­¡± In response, Argentum intentionally dyed his words as he spoke with a mysterious tone, making Blob radiate a slightly nervous aura. ¡°Do you regret choosing the path you¡¯ve taken?¡±

    ¡°Do I regret choosing the path I¡¯ve taken?¡± Blob repeated the question Argentum asked him a few times in a mutter, pondering over the answer for a short while. Eventually, he firmly focused his sense of vision towards Argentum before responding in a slightly meek tone, which became confident not long after, ¡°I¡­don¡¯t really regret choosing this path at all. In fact, why should I regret choosing this path?¡±

    ¡°I see,¡± Argentum said in response to Blob¡¯s words. He then moved around the area for a bit before continuing with his words, saying, ¡°If that¡¯s what you feel, then you haven¡¯t made a wrong choice at all.¡±

    ¡°I do wanna ask though,¡± he soon added after telling Blob that he did not choose wrongly. ¡°What made you choose that path?¡±

    ¡°Hmm¡­let¡¯s see¡­¡± Blob pondered over Argentum¡¯s question once more, this time taking slightly longer than usual. At first, an aura of confusion radiated from him, as if he had no clue as to why he chose it in the first ce. But as time passed by, the confusion surrounding him was gradually reced with understanding, and soon, conviction.

    ¡°I finally remembered why,¡± Blob said before letting out a light giggle. ¡°The reason why I chose this path was because I wanted to protect you.¡±

    ¡°Protect me?¡± Argentum could not understand why Blob would need to protect him. He had more strength than him and was also the one who helped him evolve into his current form. ¡°Why is that?¡±

    ¡°Well,¡± Blob started to exin. ¡°I know very well that Argentum thinks that he¡¯s far more powerful than me, which is true. I have a feeling that my current form is still not enough to be on par with you, and I ept that. But then, I thought about the synergy between us, the power we could showcase regarding the different paths of power I could choose from.¡±

    ¡°Of course, I discarded choosing the path of magic since you¡¯re already well-versed in the path of magic, Argentum,¡± Blob continued. ¡°From my perspective, it¡¯s quite useless for me to attack with magic since you can already deal a lot of damage with your magic.¡±

    At this point, Argentum intervened as he asked him, ¡°But if you just grind a bit more, then that¡¯ll allow you to dish out more damage than me, right?¡±

    ¡°Well yes, but¡­¡± Blob responded with a hurried answer before being interrupted as he pondered, only to continue his response a few secondster by saying, ¡°Wouldn¡¯t that just make us both bad at defense?¡±

    ¡°They do say that a good offense is the best defense,¡± Argentum refuted. ¡°I don¡¯t see anything wrong with that.¡±

    ¡°That may be true, but if we both fought against an enemy that was way above our league, we¡¯d both die under one hit,¡± Blob replied to Argentum¡¯s argument. He then added, ¡°This was one of the reasons why I discarded the magic choice, to be honest.¡±

    ¡°As for the path of closebat, though it would allow me to defend you from hits while still being able to dish out a lot of damage, I discarded the choice as well.¡± After Blob was finished exining the reasoning as to why he discarded the path of magic, he then moved onto the path of closebat. ¡°The situation is just like the path of magic. Though I would be able to survive longer with the higher defense brought about by being focused on closebat, that would only allow you to have a small time frame to escape from the clutches of the enemy I mentioned a while ago. In the end, you¡¯d still die.¡±

    Just as Argentum was about to interrupt Blob from continuing with his exnation, Blob took the initiative to continue exining his train of thought, finally talking about the reason why he chose the path of defense. ¡°And so, I was only left with the path of defense. By taking on the path of defense, I would be able to buy you a lot of time to prepare some sort of ultimate spell, which would allow you to kill the said enemy from before.¡±

    ¡°Well¡­¡± Argentum pondered over what he was about to say but decided to stop. He then let out a short sigh before saying, ¡°¡­you¡¯re not wrong.¡±

    In actuality, the reason why Argentum was throwing out these arguments was to make sure that Blob truly thought of his choice through. Of course, he had no qualms with Blob choosing the path of defense in the first ce since he did say to himself that he would allow hispanions to choose for themselves.

    ¡°Can I check your stats?¡± Argentum soon asked him, to which Blob agreed not long after. Argentum then went ahead andmanded the system to show Blob¡¯s stats, slightly surprised by how much of an increase in stats a single evolution gave to Blob.

    ________

    [Blob] (Level 1/20)

    Experience: 0/200

    Existence Level: Pseudo-Animate (Magic)

    Species: Lesser me Spirit of Defense

    ¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª

    [HP]: 40/40

    [MP]: 15/15

    ¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª

    Stats:

    Vitality ¨C 20

    Strength ¨C 15

    Defense ¨C 25

    Agility ¨C 25

    Intelligence ¨C 15

    ________

    ¡°To think that mypanion would reach the Magic-grade Pseudo-Animate level before me,¡± Argentum could not help but say as he looked at the holographic screen that appeared in front of his field of vision, letting out a light chuckle. He then went ahead and closed the screen in front of him before focusing his sense of vision back to Blob.

    He mulled over what he was going to say to Blob for a bit, eventually finding the right words as he said to Blob, ¡°I guess our strategy of killing these Fire Slimes will now change.¡±

    ¡°Indeed, it will,¡± Blob said before letting out a light giggle. In response to this, Argentum went ahead and moved through the area once more, with Blob eventually realizing what Argentum was trying to do a few secondster, dashing at his maximum speed before shouting, ¡°Hey, wait for me!¡±

    ¡­

    After a few minutes or so, the two of them found a stray Fire Slime, making sure that they were a decent distance away from it as they did not want to alert the slime as usual. With Blob beside him, Argentum went ahead and asked him, ¡°So, how are we going to kill this Fire Slime?¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t you have a strategy already, Argentum?¡± Blob could not help but ask, to which Argentum radiated an aura of affirmation as he replied, ¡°Of course I do. I just want to see if you can create a strategy as well.¡±

    ¡°Is that the case?¡± Blob radiated an aura of slight curiosity before being reced by contemtion. After some time, he looked at Argentum with an aura of slight uncertainty as he told him his strategy. ¡°I don¡¯t know if this is the strategy you have in mind, but¡­¡±

    ¡°You want me to attract the slime¡¯s attention while you shoot at it from afar until it dies,¡± Blob said, to which Argentum replied, ¡°Good strategy, but how are you going to get stronger from just defending its attacks? You need to obtain its precious experience as well.¡±

    ¡°Ah¡­¡± Listening to Argentum¡¯s suggestion, Blob realized that he had forgotten that part of the fight, mulling over his strategy for a bit before telling Argentum, ¡°I ask you to stop attacking the slime just when it¡¯s on the brink of death, then I go ahead and deal thest blow?¡±

    ¡°Exactly,¡± Argentum said with a gleeful tone. He then looked at the stray Fire Slime that was not far away from them and uttered, ¡°Let¡¯s go and do it your way, Blob.¡±

    ¡°Alright, Argentum,¡± Blob replied to his words before going ahead and dashing towards the Fire Slime at his fullest speed, stopping at the very instant he had attracted the Fire Slime¡¯s attention.

    Boing!

    Just as he was about tond a hit on the Fire Slime, making sure that its attention was focused on him, the Fire Slime went ahead and leaped upwards, eliciting an aura of glee to radiate from Blob as he focused his sense of vision back at Argentum, who already had a fireball conjured beforehand, and shouted, ¡°Argentum! Fire!¡±

    ¡°[Lower ze Magic: Fire Ball]!¡±

    ¡°Burst!¡±

    Whoosh! Bang!

    As if it was ordained by the heavens, the fireball Argentum threw had squarely hit the core of the Fire Slime before exploding, sending the Fire Slime away from Blob afterward. In response to the Fire Slime flying, Blob went ahead and dashed towards the direction where the Fire Slime might fall, going ahead and using his maximum speed to make sure that he had arrived there first before the Fire Slime would fall.

    Fortunately, thanks to his evolution to the Magic-grade, Blob was able to arrive at the area where he thought the Fire Slime wouldnd, adjusting his position to make sure that his body would collide with the core of the Fire Slime. Just as the Fire Slime was about tond to the ground, Blob went ahead and clenched his fist before channeling all of his strength towards this fist, prompting the core of the Fire Slime that had barelynded to shatter into pieces.

    Bang!

    With the core of the Fire Slime now shattered, the gtinous body of the slime lost its form, turning into a puddle of viscous fluid as the aura surrounding Blob had slightly intensified while his size had grown by a few notches.

    Ding!

    On the other hand, Argentum obtained a few notifications from the system after the core of the slime had been shattered. Of course, since Argentum had obtained these types of notifications for quite some time already, he just hastily skimmed through thest notification he had received, finding out that Blob had now reached Level 3.

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    This time, instead of Argentuming closer to Blob, it was Blob who came closer to Argentum, radiating an aura of glee and pride as he let out a cackle, saying, ¡°My strategy worked, Argentum! Are you proud of me?¡±

    ¡°Sure, sure. I¡¯m proud of you,¡± Argentum said in a gleeful tone, letting out a cackle of his own afterward. After that, he looked at the position of the moon, noticing that it was already at the peak of the sky. He then pondered over a few things before thinking to himself, ¡®I¡¯ll just head to the Azure Shores once the sun appears.¡¯

    ¡®For now, it wouldn¡¯t be bad to focus all of my strength in nurturing Blob here. It would definitely be useful in the long run.¡¯

    ¡°Let¡¯s go and fight some more Fire Slimes,¡± Argentum said to Blob before adding, ¡°We¡¯ll fight Fire Slimes until dawn appears!¡±

    ¡°Eh? That long?¡± At first, Blob could not believe what he was hearing, thinking that Argentum was slightly crazy. But then, he thought about it for a bit before letting out a cackle. He then said, ¡°Then again, fighting against Fire Slimes feels nice! Sure! Let¡¯s go, Argentum!¡±

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    And with that, the two of them went ahead and moved through the area filled with Fire Slimes once more, finding more stray Fire Slimes to pummel and beat up as Blob¡¯s strength gradually increased with every kill.

 Chapter 241: Departure

    Chapter 241: Departure

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    Quite a long time has passed since Argentum and Blob had employed a new strategy to fight against the Fire Slimes. Of course, this was all because Blob had chosen a path that would allow him to protect Argentum from harm while being able to still dish out a decent amount of damage. With every level Blob gained from killing the Fire Slimes, the less reliant he became towards Argentum dealing most of the damage. Then again, even though he was at a higher level of strength than Argentum after all of that killing, he still opted for Argentum to aggravate the Fire Slime with a single attack. After that, Blob would take care of the rest.

    If one were to give an exact time as to how long they had employed this strategy, it would be around six hours or so. In other words, the sun was already rising. Nevertheless, even though they noticed the sun was rising up, the two still focused their sense of vision towards the being slightly far away from them.

    ¡°Are you sure you wanna fight against this being?¡± Argentum could not help but ask Blob beside him. He then added, ¡°Thebat power of that being is nowhere near inparison to the Fire Slime. Not only that, but that being¡¯s existence level is slightly higher as well, at Rank 1 Animate.¡±

    Noticing that the aura radiating from Blob was still adamant, Argentum let out a short sigh before asking, ¡°Are you seriously sure you wanna fight against that being? Even after all I¡¯ve said?¡±

    In response to his question, Blob radiated an aura of slight glee and tion before focusing his sense of vision at him. He then said as he let out a light chuckle, ¡°You may not have confidence in my current strength, but I do. I¡¯m already a being at the Grand-grade Pseudo-Animate level, Argentum. Not only that, but I¡¯m also close to reaching the limits of my power. Do you really think I can¡¯t defeat that being?¡±

    Taking an hour out of those six hours to kill around eighty Fire Slimes, Blob had reached the maximum level. He then proceeded to evolve to the next grade, increasing the size of his body. Of course, the same went for the aura surrounding him. With him now at the Grand-grade level, Blob¡¯s stature was now around the same height as Argentum¡¯s, if not slightly taller. As for his head, which used to be a hovering blob of fire over his torso, it was now connected to his upper body just like Argentum¡¯s.

    With Blob continuing to be adamant in his decision, Argentum let out yet another sigh before saying in a slightly disappointed tone, ¡°Alright then. If that¡¯s what you want, then go for it. Fight against that Greater me Wolf.¡±

    The Greater me Wolf was the being that the two were eyeing all this time¡­well, mostly Blob. Although Argentum was quite satisfied with repeatedly fighting Fire Slimes to increase Blob¡¯s level, Blob was adamant to know how strong he had honestly gotten. With that in mind, he asked Argentum to help him find a being that would probably be a good match for him.

    In actuality, Argentum was not afraid of Blob losing against the Greater me Wolf. Even if he lost, he would still be able to withstand a few of the wolf¡¯s hits thanks to his superior defense. All of his words from then till now were just words that would motivate Blob to show his full power in front of Argentum.

    ¡°I won¡¯t let you down, Argentum,¡± Blob said in response to Argentum¡¯s words before adding, ¡°Trust me on this one.¡±

    Whoosh!

    And so, utilizing his Agility stat to its maximum extent, the gap between Blob and the Greater me Wolf had been shortened to mere centimeters in less than an instant. In fact, while watching this, Argentum presumed that Blob had a higher maximum speed than him, even if he activated both [Zephyr Ascendance+] and [Zephyr Burst].

    ¡°Awoo!¡± Although the wolf¡¯s reaction was dyed due to the speed at which Blob arrived, the wolf still let out a shout as it emanated an aura of killing intent, directing it towards Blob. To Blob, the animosity he felt was telling him that he had intruded upon the territory of the wolf. Heughed it off and said, ¡°Intruded your territory, eh?¡±

    ¡°Why can¡¯t I say you intruded my territory instead!¡± Blob shouted as he clenched his right fist, sending a punch that squarely hit the me wolf¡¯s belly.

    Bang!

    Due to the strength hidden within that punch, the me wolf was sent flying up a few meters in the air. This elicited a gleeful aura to emanate out of Blob as he noticed the pained expression on the wolf¡¯s face. Just as he thought that the wolf would concede at the very moment it crashed, the pained expression on the wolf¡¯s face had instantly transformed into that of fury.

    ¡°Arrogant!¡± the wolf shouted as it was now at the same height as Blob¡¯s head, opening its maw and manifesting a giant ball of fire before shooting it towards Blob. In retaliation, Blob raised both of his arms in a defensive stance before shouting, ¡°[me Bulwark]!¡±

    Fwoosh!

    Rather than colliding with Blob¡¯s body, it instead hit with the shield that hovered over Blob¡¯s raised arms. This made Blob take a few steps back due to the force inherent in the fireball. As he dispelled the skill, Blob shook his arms for a bit before asking the wolf, ¡°That¡¯s all you¡¯ve got?¡±

    Whoosh!

    In response, the me wolf unhesitatingly increased the distance between the two as it knew that it was tough for it to break through Blob¡¯s defenses. To be honest, Blob was the first being it had faced against to have such overbearing defense. Then again, it remembered that it only faced off against Rank 0 Animates at most.

    ¡°Die for me already!¡± the wolf shouted as it let out a howl, opening its maw once again to conjure yet another fireball. Just as Blob thought that it was the same fireball from before, prompting him to activate [me Bulwark] once more, he noticed that there was something behind the giant fireball. That something was actually multiple smaller fireballs that contained a lot of energy. Seeing this, Blob pondered over how he was going to defend or retaliate against this attack, eliciting a cackle that he hastily stopped as the fireballs were soon sent towards his way.

    Bang! Bang!

    While the fireballs were heading towards him, he soon raised his left foot, which he stomped down soon after before doing the same thing with his right foot. He then extended both arms in front of him before raising both palms and taking in a deep breath. Argentum, who noticed Blob¡¯s current stance as he was watching the two fight from afar, radiated an aura of curiosity and expectation as he muttered to himself, ¡°Ah, right. After reaching Level 25, he told me that he obtained this move, which seemed like an ultimate move to him. I wonder how strong it truly is.¡±

    On the other hand, the me wolf let out a loud cackle as it noticed Blob¡¯s current stance. It then shouted, ¡°What a stupid defensive stance, how would that help you defend against my mighty fireba¡ª¡±

    ¡°[me Mirror: Higher Reflection]!¡±

    Interrupting the wolf¡¯s retort, Blob shouted as he contracted both arms before pushing them out with all of his strength. This instantly created a wave of energy that glowed light red, pushing the fireballs the wolf shot out at him at higher speeds.

    ¡°Oh shit!¡± Noticing what was happening, the wolf hastily tapped into all of its power to make sure it could flee from the reflection of the attack he sent, but to no avail. Out of nowhere, Blob appeared behind him, pressing down on its hind legs as he giggled. ¡°Where are you going?¡±

    ¡°Madman¡­¡± the wolf said in a fearful tone as its eyes locked onto Blob¡¯s body. ¡°You¡¯re a madman!¡±

    Bang!

    Not long after saying that, the wave of red energy that carried its fireballs back to its origin was soon absorbed by those fireballs. This increased the power of the fireballs by at least a factor of two before exploding as it collided with the wolf¡¯s body, instantly turning the wolf into a charred corpse.

    Ding!

    Seeing that the fight was over, Argentum went ahead and utilized both [Zephyr Ascendance+] and [Zephyr Burst] to hastily make his way to where Blob was. While he was on his way, he heard a notification sound resound in his mind. Opening the notification screen in his mind and skimming through thetest notifications, he could not help but mutter inwardly, ¡®He has truly paved a path for himself. He has truly be stronger.¡¯

    ¡®Too bad I¡¯m just starting on my path to power. Sorry, Blob, but your creator won¡¯t lose to you that easily.¡¯

    Whoosh!

    As he arrived at where Blob was, Blob went ahead and told Argentum with an ted tone, ¡°Did you see what I did, Argentum? It was super easy for me to beat that wolf!¡±

    ¡°Sure, sure. You did it,¡± Argentum let out a sigh as he responded, which he then followed up with a light chuckle. He then went ahead and asked him, ¡°So, do you feel like you¡¯ve reached your limit of power again?¡±

    ¡°After fighting against that wolf? Yeah,¡± Blob responded to Argentum¡¯s question. Blob then went ahead and asked Argentum, ¡°Is it fine if I go ahead and evolve?¡±

    ¡°Go ahead. Be my guest,¡± Argentum responded to his words before adding, ¡°Just note that after you evolve, we¡¯ll be leaving the Inferno ins.¡±

    ¡°Eh? What for, Argentum?¡± Blob tilted his head slightly as he radiated an aura of slight curiosity. Fortunately, Argentum¡¯s words satiated his interest as he said, ¡°It¡¯s time for me to grow stronger as well.¡±

    ¡°Ah.¡± Hearing his creator¡¯s words, Blob had an understanding in his mind, prompting him to giggle as he asked Argentum, ¡°Is Argentum jealous of my power?¡±

    ¡°Are you going to evolve¡­or not?¡± In response, Argentum replied to him with a serious tone as he emanated a level of killing intent Blob had never seen from his creator before. This made Blob a bit flustered as he said, ¡°Y-yes! I¡¯ll evolve now!¡±

    Whoosh!

    Not long after that, arge mass of Fire energy particles manifested within a certain radius of Blob once more. The aura Blob radiated had intensified even further as his appearance had undergone a massive change thanks to it. As to what kind of difference it was, it was a change in stature.

    Unlike before, where Blob would be around the same height as Argentum, after this evolution, Blob was now at least twice as high as Argentum. With that in mind, this made Argentum ponder as to how he was going to treat Blob after this.

    Thankfully, Blob¡¯s evolution process did not take long. In fact, after he was finished, he let out a shocked shout, realizing how much he had grown with just one evolution. ¡°How the¡­¡±

    ¡°You¡¯ve be an Epic-grade Pseudo-Animate, Blob,¡± Argentum said with an aura of slight glee. ¡°Congrattions.¡±

    ¡°I know that, but¡­¡± Blob said in response to his creator¡¯s words before asking him, ¡°How the heck do I be smaller?¡±

    ¡°Have you checked your new skills yet?¡± Argentum pondered over the question before replying. ¡°Surely there would be one skill that would allow you to shrink in size.¡±

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡± As Blob hemmed and hawed while rummaging through the skills he had learned from evolving, a reaction was soon found from Blob as he said, ¡°You¡¯re right. There¡¯s a skill that does what you just said, Argentum.¡±

    ¡°[me Adjustment]!¡± Blob said not long after, reducing his stature back to around Argentum¡¯s height. With his size now at a level where he felt like he was his old self, Blob then asked his creator, ¡°What are we going to do next, Argentum? Kill some more beings in the Inferno ins to get stronger?¡±

    ¡°You¡¯ve grown strong enough, Blob,¡± Argentum said in a tone that he felt like he was wronged. ¡°Don¡¯t you think it¡¯s time for me to get stronger this time. And also, I already told you our next n before you evolved!¡±

    ¡°Eh? You did?¡± Blob said in slight shock before recalling, only to find out that Argentum did tell him. He then apologized to Argentum before asking, ¡°What are you going to do to get stronger, then?¡±

    ¡°Head to the Azure Shores,¡± Argentum unhesitatingly replied to Blob¡¯s words before telling him, ¡°Oh, right. You can¡¯t join me on this adventure since you¡¯ll be heavily disadvantaged in this area.¡±

    Although Blob was now an Epic-grade Pseudo-Animate, the power he could unleash would be, at most, on the level of a peak Magic-grade Pseudo-Animate. This was because the Azure Shores was filled to the brim with things of the Water element. Then again, though it was a level of power far superior to Argentum¡¯s in some areas, Blob would still die thanks to the elemental disadvantage.

    ¡°But why can¡¯t I join?¡± Blob asked him, to which he responded, ¡°It¡¯s an area filled with the Water element. You¡¯ll die easily in there.¡±

    ¡°But I¡¯m stronger than you! Also, remember that I told you that I would protect you from harm? Which is why I chose this path?¡± From the words Blob said, he was still adamant in joining Argentum in the Azure Shores. Argentum could not help but let out a sigh of slight annoyance as he tried to formte a goodpromise.

    Surprisingly, it only took a few seconds for thepromise he needed to appear in his mind. With it, Argentum then focused his sense of vision towards Blob and tell him, ¡°I still can¡¯t take you to the Azure Shores, but how about this. While I¡¯m on my way to the Azure Shores, you¡¯ll act as my mount while I continue to enhance my skills before reaching the Azure Shores. That way, you could protect me from harm while I enhance mybat power. Does that sound good to you?¡±

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡± Blob pondered over his creator¡¯s suggestion, only to ask him, ¡°Is there really no way for me to be able to help you out in the Azure Shores?¡±

    ¡°There is none,¡± Argentum said to him without hesitation. However, he was inwardly pondering about ways to give Blob the [Water Resistance] skill. With Blob obtaining this ability, this would allow him to show his superior defense in an elementally disadvantaged area.

    With his creator being adamant, Blob was left with no choice but to ept. ¡°Alright, then. I ept.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m d you understand, Blob,¡± Argentum responded in a slightly gentle tone before morphing into a speck of red sand which then flew towards Blob¡¯s right shoulder. After making sure that he wouldn¡¯t fall, Argentum thenmanded the system to open up a map, marking the fastest route for Blob to take before sending him this information.

    After sending this information, he then told Blob, ¡°This route is the route you¡¯ll have to take to get to the Azure Shores as fast as possible. Every once in a while, I¡¯ll check if you¡¯ve deviated from the original route. Do you have any problems with that, Blob?¡±

    ¡°None at all, Argentum,¡± Blob replied as he shook his head.

    ¡°And with that¡­¡± Argentum then said in an ecstatic tone, focusing his sense of vision towards the broad horizon.

    ¡°Let¡¯s set off to Azure Shores!¡±

    ¡°For real this time!¡±

 Chapter 242: Arrival

    Chapter 242: Arrival

    ¡°Let¡¯s set off to Azure Shores!¡± Argentum shouted, waking up Blob¡¯s eagerness to head to the Azure Shores to its peak. With that, he then mustered all of the strength flowing throughout his body before remembering the path Argentum gave to him. Channeling all of that strength towards his legs and feet, Blob then dashed off towards the boundary of the Inferno ins, officially kickstarting Argentum¡¯s journey to power once more!

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    While Blob was moving at insanely fast speeds, Argentum, who was a speck of red sand that blended in with Blob¡¯s right shoulder, could not help but let out an inward chuckle. Muttering to himself, he said, ¡°This is seriously a good idea! With Blob fully focused on heading towards the Azure Shores and protecting me, I can fully focus on grinding my skills! How many skills would I be able to grind to a high level this time?¡±

    Although Argentum was able to grind a lot of skills while splitting a part of his attention towards the terrain and where he was moving, the efficiency at which he enhanced those skills was pretty subpar. It was only due to Aurus¡¯s highprehension speed that he was able to maintain a rate of improvement that would shock others.

    But now that he did not need to allocate part of his attention towards the path he was taking, he could now grind his skills at full efficiency. Of course, he would still take breaks from time to time, guiding Blob whenever he deviated from the path he gave him.

    And with that, a full day has passed.

    Throughout the journey, it was pretty silent. Argentum was engrossed in grinding his skills, while Blob was focused on maintaining a high speed while following the path his creator had given him. The only time that it was not that remotely silent was when Argentum would tell Blob that he had deviated from the right path, which only happened quite a few times on the trip.

    Other than that, even when Blob was tired, taking a rest to replenish his stamina, Argentum was fully engrossed in enhancing his skills. Unsurprisingly, this state of being immersed in improving his abilities had given him great leaps in hisbat power.

    The two skills that allowed him to wield magic, [Lower Tempest Magic+] and [Lower ze Magic+], had reached the Master level of mastery throughout this trip. He unhesitatingly evolved them to their next grades, which were [Intermediate Tempest Magic++] and [Intermediate ze Magic++] respectively. Naturally, with his high efficiency this time around, he was able to max out their levels and even increase their masteries to the Basic level.

    As for the skills that were previously at the Artisan level of mastery, they had naturally reached the Master level of mastery. After evolving all of them, they were then brought up to the Expert level of mastery. Of course, this only applied to the Wind-based active skills Argentum had.

    Regarding the Fire-based skills Argentum obtained from the me Spirit Inheritance, excluding [Intermediate ze Magic++], they had surprisingly reached the Master level of mastery as well thanks to this trip. Argentum also went ahead and evolved them, but due to their use to him not being that important, he was only able to enhance their mastery to the Adept level.

    His passive skills, on the other hand, had made great strides in improvement. Argentum could proudly say that all of the passive skills he had were now at the Transcendent level. With all of them at the Transcendent level, he imagined that he would be able to showcase a higher level of power unseen in Normal-grade Pseudo-Animates.

    Surprisingly, he did not neglect the skills he had obtained from the Animates he killed during this journey¡­well, except for those skills that relied on weapons. Although he was not able to reach the Master level of mastery for the active Animate skills he had, he had still raised them to the Artisan level. Even an Animate skill at the Artisan level would bring a decent improvement to hisbat power.

    Then again, the same did not apply to his passive Animate skills, which all of them had reached the Master level of mastery. After being evolved to the next grade, Argentum realized that these passive skills were more useful than he once thought, prompting him to raise all of them to the Basic level of mastery after being evolved.

    Whoosh!

    As the wind breezed past Blob¡¯s body, slightly making Argentum shiver as he was on hispanion¡¯s shoulders, Argentum felt that Blob had stopped moving. This prompted Argentum to stop grinding his skills and open his sense of vision before focusing it on Blob. He then asked him, ¡°What¡¯s the matter, Blob? Why¡¯d you stop?¡±

    ¡°We¡¯re here, Argentum,¡± Blob said in response to his creator¡¯s words. At first, Argentum was muddleheaded since he was still engrossed in grinding abilities a while ago, making the word he hearde out of Blob feel slightly hazy. In response to that, he asked Blob to repeat his words after he had a clearer sense of mind, leading to him radiating an aura of slight surprise.

    ¡°That fast?¡± Argentum could not help but mutter to himself in surprise as he jumped off of Blob¡¯s shoulder, reverting to his previous humanoid form. He then lightly stretched his body afterward and took a good look at his surroundings. While doing so, it did not take long for Argentum to realize that Blob was saying the truth, with the closest view in front of them being that of a world of water.

    ¡°Damn,¡± Argentum said in a tone of slight wonder, his sense of vision focused on this world of water. ¡°We¡¯ve truly arrived at Azure Shores.¡±

    ¡°How long did it take you to get here?¡± he then asked Blob, who was beside him. Scratching his head for a short bit while recalling, Blob then replied, ¡°Factoring in the few breaks I took¡­around a day?¡±

    ¡°A day?!¡± Argentum knew that an Epic-grade Pseudo-Animate was faster than him, but he did not expect the gap to be this huge. The distance between the Tempest Cliff and the Inferno ins was the same as the distance between the two areas he nned to enter, so it was a good gauge of how fast a being was. For Blob to cross this distance in around a day while Argentum traversed it in almost two days¡­Argentum then decided in his mind to use Blob as a mount whenever they were going somewhere.

    Taking in a deep breath to calm his emotions, Argentum then told Blob, ¡°Well, we¡¯ve arrived at Azure Shores. As I¡¯ve said before, you won¡¯t be able to protect me in this area. You¡¯ll be heavily disadvantaged thanks to your element.¡±

    ¡°At first, I tried my best to not believe such a thing,¡± Blob said as he subconsciously nodded. He then continued, ¡°But now that I¡¯vee face to face with the atmosphere of the Azure Shores, I now see why you say that, Argentum.¡±

    ¡°So¡­what should I do, then?¡± Argentum¡¯spanion asked him after that before adding, ¡°Should I head towards another area to improve my strength even further?¡±

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡± Although Argentum knew what he was going to do with Blob, he still put up the facade of contemtion. It was only after a few seconds of this facade did he answer with a light chuckle, ¡°I have a better idea than that.¡±

    ¡°System, keep Blob inside,¡± he soon said in a serious yet yful tone, which elicited Blob to tilt his head in slight confusion.

    Whoosh!

    Not long after, a wave of white energy soon enveloped Blob before he disappeared from Argentum¡¯s field of vision. In response to that, Argentum took in a few deep breaths before asking in his mind, ¡°Hey, Blob! Can you hear me?¡±

    ¡°Eh? Where did you take me, Argentum?¡± Soon after, Blob¡¯s voice resounded in his mind, making Argentum lightly chuckle. He then responded to Blob¡¯s query, saying, ¡°You¡¯re inside a special space wherein only I can take you out of it.¡±

    Just as Blob was about to ask why Argentum would do that, Argentum continued, ¡°The reason why I did this is that I¡¯ve decided to have you keep mepany while I¡¯m traversing the Azure Shores. I can¡¯t let myself be weaker than mypanion, now can I?¡±

    Blob went silent after hearing that, before letting out a loud cackle that resounded in Argentum¡¯s mind. He then said, ¡°Alright, then. Whenever you want to talk to me, I¡¯ll always be here. This ce ain¡¯t half bad, to be honest.¡±

    After that, Argentum¡¯spanion went fully silent, allowing Argentum to take in the surroundings of the area he was going to enter. Letting out a long sigh a few secondster, Argentum then said to himself, ¡°Time to enter the Azure Shores!¡±

    Step! Step!

    ¡°Damn that¡¯s cold!¡± Argentum had just taken a few steps inside the Azure Shores, but his body was instantly pervaded by an aura of frost, giving Argentum the feeling that he was inside arge block of ice. Fortunately, unlike the aura of intense heat that the Inferno ins radiated, which damaged Argentum from time to time, this aura of frost was just a slight nuisance to Argentum. It only took a few minutes or so for Argentum to be limated to the frigid winds blowing throughout the Azure Shores.

    After that, hemanded the system to open up a map, zooming into the Azure Shores afterward. He then zoomed in and zoomed out of the map a few times to assess where he currently was. Finding out his exact position about a couple of minutester, he then marked a path that led to the ce he told Eleanor before he left the Inferno ins, the Grand Blue Inheritance.

    Remembering what he had done in the Inferno ins before entering the me Spirit Inheritance, Argentum could not help but let out a small chuckle. He then activated [Zephyr Burst Alpha], a stronger movement boosting spell he had obtained from [Intermediate Tempest Magic++], and [Zephyr Ascendance+], but at the Artisan level of mastery.

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    Thanks to his new and improved movement boosting spells, he was able to traverse the Azure Shores at far greater speeds than when he was in the Inferno ins. He presumed that with these spells activated, he could move faster than Blob. Then again, he did not know whether that was true or not. Blob was only at Level 1. He still had tons of room for improvement.

    ¡°Fortunately, I can focus on heading towards the Grand Blue Inheritance this time, instead of taking a small detour to obtain a resistance skill to the Water element,¡± Argentum muttered to himself as he continued to traverse the area¡¯s terrain. Surprisingly, with his current speeds, he had arrived in front of the Grand Blue Inheritance within an hour. As to why, unlike the me Spirit Inheritance, which was located near the center of the Inferno ins, the Grand Blue Inheritance was located in an area not far from the center of the Azure Shores, but not far from the boundary of the area as well.

    After arriving in front of the Grand Blue Inheritance, the first thing Argentum did was to take a good look at the ce, cross-referencing it with the memories Aurus had of the ce. He then let out a soft snigger as he said, ¡°Just like the me Spirit Inheritance, the Grand Blue Inheritance maintained the same appearance. It still looks as imposing as ever.¡±

    Unlike the me Spirit Inheritance, which was housed within a charred abandoned building, the Grand Blue Inheritance was housed within an exquisite castle made out of ice. The spires adorning the top of the castle radiated rays of various colors as the sun¡¯s rays hit them, giving the castle a majestic and ethereal feel.

    Taking in a deep breath, he then recalled the code phrase Eleanor whispered to him before he left the Inferno ins. To be honest, Argentum did not know why Eleanor told him that it was a code word if it was actually a string of words in reality. He decided to think that it was just done to mystify the importance of it. After recalling it, he then pondered over Aurus¡¯s memories regarding the Grand Blue Inheritance.

    ¡°Now that I think about it, with the code phrase given by Eleanor, theyout of the trials might change,¡± Argentum said to himself in contemtion. He then shrugged his shoulders before saying, ¡°Ah well. Still a good reference nheless.¡±

    Step. Step. Step.

    As he continued to mutter to himself in contemtion regarding the Grand Blue Inheritance, he gradually made his way towards the gates of the ice castle. After doing so, he then ced both of his hands on the gate, feeling a strong chill pervade his body in an instant.

    Rather than resisting this chilly feeling, Argentum decided to circte the energy inside his body in a way that mimicked the chilly aura. A few secondster, ayer of frost soon enveloped his body, which then shattered into pieces like broken ss a few secondster.

    Whoosh!

    Apanying the sound of shattering ss, Argentum¡¯s body had instantly disappeared from the gates of the ice castle, heading towards the start of the Grand Blue Inheritance.

 Chapter 243: Grand Blue Master

    Chapter 243: Grand Blue Master

    Whoosh!

    In an instant, Argentum appeared near the wall of what seemed to be arge room. As usual, he was slightly startled by the sudden teleport. But after taking a deep breath and assessing his current surroundings, his emotions had calmed down. He then muttered to himself in understanding, ¡°Ah. I¡¯m finally inside the Grand Blue Inheritance.¡±

    As of this moment, Argentum was inside arge room that seemed to be made out of chiseled ice. From the aura he felt emanating from the walls to the feeling of intense frost he felt from the ground he was standing on, it could only be chiseled ice that made up the confines of this room.

    ¡°Hmm¡­that¡¯s cold.¡± Seeing as he was currently stuck in a room where there was nothing to do, Argentum decided to sit down and rummage through Aurus¡¯s memories rted to the Grand Blue Inheritance. Although the trials he would take in this inheritance might differ from what Aurus took in the memories, he was quite sure that the method to enter this trial was the same, remembering the words Eleanor told him in the past regarding the code phrase.

    ¡°Make sure to say this code word before you start the inheritance.¡± This statement echoed out in his mind as he continued to rummage through Aurus¡¯s memories, eventually finding the memory that held the method to enter the Grand Blue Inheritance.

    ¡°I see,¡± Argentum muttered to himself as he gradually what Aurus was doing in his memories. Unlike before in the me Spirit Inheritance where Aurus was apanied by two other people, in the memories regarding the Grand Blue Inheritance, he was taking on it alone.

    In the memory, Aurus waited for quite some time in the same room Argentum was in. Eventually, he felt the ground rumble as a small but wide pir appeared in the center of the icy room, prompting him to stand up and head towards it. After arriving in front of the pir, he then ced both of his hands on top of it and circted all of his energy, just like how he entered the Grand Blue Inheritance in the first ce.

    A few seconds after that, Aurus had disappeared from the room as the small pir gradually became flush with the ground. As for the memory that came after this, it was the start of the Grand Blue Inheritance. With that in mind, Argentum took in a deep breath and said to himself, ¡°Guess I¡¯ll wait.¡±

    And so, Argentum waited.

    And waited.

    And waited.

    At first, a few minutes had passed. Then, ten minutes. Then twenty. Eventually, half an hour had passed, yet the pir that served as the only way to enter the inheritance had not appeared in the center of the room Argentum was in. Just as he was about to lose his mind from waiting for so long, he took in a deep breath and said, ¡°Calm down, Argentum. Calm down. There¡¯s no point in getting angry over something like this.¡±

    Rumble¡­

    Coincidentally, as he was in the middle of saying those words, the ground started to rumble as a small but wide pir made out of chiseled ice appeared in the center of the room. Noticing the small pir, Argentum was inwardly ecstatic as he spouted out a few curses that he kept to himself, allowing him to calm down. He then made his way towards the pir, recalling the code phrase Eleanor told him. He wanted to make sure that he got the code phrase correctly when he said that, so he repeated it in his mind over and over again while making his way.

    At the instant he arrived in front of the pir, he took in a deep breath before cing both palms on it. Just as he was about to start circting his energy from nervousness, he restrained himself from doing so, recalling the code phrase Eleanor told him.

    This time though, unlike when he was recalling it while heading towards the pir, he could not help but feel bad for the master of the Grand Blue Inheritance with every repeat he did in his mind. Argentum then muttered to himself in an extremely soft voice, ¡°If I hurt your feelings, master of the Grand Blue Inheritance¡­¡±

    ¡°Let me apologize in advance.¡±

    He then took in a deep breath before yelling the code phrase at the loudest volume he could muster.

    ¡°Hahaha! The Undying me Spirit shall always prevail because the Grand Blue is a big fucking coward!¡±

    After saying that, Argentum instantly felt a great amount of dread and remorse. He then went ahead and circted his energy¡­only to stop as he wondered, ¡®Maybe the master of the Grand Blue Inheritance didn¡¯t hear it clearly?¡¯

    ¡°I¡¯ll repeat it two more times just to make sure,¡± Argentum said to himself before adding, ¡°The master of the Grand Blue Inheritance will definitely hate me because of this. Is this really a code phrase, Eleanor?¡±

    Taking in yet another deep breath, Argentum yelled out the code phrase two more times.

    ¡°Hahaha! The Undying me Spirit shall always prevail because the Grand Blue is a big fucking coward!¡±

    ¡°Hahaha! The Undying me Spirit shall always prevail because the Grand Blue is a big fucking coward!¡±

    Now feeling an intense amount of dread and remorse from doing so, Argentum went ahead and hastily circted all of the energy in his body. This formed a resonance with the ice pir his hands were on, allowing multiple Water energy particles to manifest around him before enveloping his body soon after.

    Whoosh!

    Not long after that, the Water energy particles covering Argentum had disappeared, bringing Argentum along for the ride as he was transported to another ce in the Grand Blue Inheritance.

    ¡­

    In a deeper portion of the Grand Blue Inheritance.

    Arge blob of water started to jiggle intensely as it felt a wave of energy pass through its body.

    ¡°Eh? Someone has entered the inheritance?¡± therge blob of water muttered to itself in slight curiosity. Soon after, it transformed its body into that of a male with well-defined muscles. Lightly stretching his body in the process of limation, he allocated part of his mental energy to conjure up multiple screens that allowed him to see every nook and cranny of the inheritance.

    Whoosh!

    In an instant, this man made out of water was soon covered by a plethora of screens made out of his energy. Surprisingly, rather than bing overwhelmed by it, he instead felt like he was in his natural habitat as he gracefully looked through the various screens.

    ¡°Aha.¡± After a few minutes or so, the man was able to find the being that had entered his inheritance. He then used a bit more of his energy to make the image on the screen a bit clearer, radiating an aura of slight confusion as he asked himself in a slightly contemting tone, ¡°Why would a Wind-based Pseudo-Animatee to this inheritance, even though this inheritance is inclined towards the Water element?¡±

    This man made out of water was none other than the master of the Grand Blue Inheritance, the Grand Blue Master. Unlike Eleanor, who had obtained the moniker ¡®Undying me Spirit¡¯ due to her tenacity when fighting against a ton of enemies alone, the Grand Blue Master had obtained his moniker thanks to the inheritance he had created, the Grand Blue Inheritance.

    Also, unlike Eleanor, who held a grudge against Animates for killing her brethren, the Grand Blue Master turned a blind eye to the death of his brethren as he only focused on his personal power first and foremost. This was also the reason why he did not care whether the being that entered the inheritance was a Pseudo-Animate or an Animate, since he would give them the same trial to finish. Of course, that did not mean that the Grand Blue Master would not help out his fellow Pseudo-Animates.

    Every once in a while, if a highly talented Water-based Pseudo-Animate entered his inheritance, he would make sure to make the trial slightly easier for them, and even increase the quality of the rewards they obtained. Nevertheless, this was only a rare urrence.

    At the moment, the Wind-based Pseudo-Animate he was looking at was sitting by one side of the room, waiting for the pir that allowed it to enter the true inheritance to pop up. Concurrently, he was also pondering over the reasons as to why a Pseudo-Animate of a different element would enter an inheritance that highly favored those of the Water element. Surprisingly, this session of contemtion dyed the appearance of the pir by quite some time, increasing the time the Pseudo-Animate had to wait, from 10 minutes¡­to half an hour.

    Fortunately, the Grand Blue Master¡¯s session of contemtion did notst that long, or else the Pseudo-Animate would have lost it. Realizing his blunder, he muttered to himself, ¡°Once this Pseudo-Animate enters the inheritance, I¡¯ll have to increase the grade of its rewards by a bit.¡±

    Whoosh!

    He then hastily made the pir appear in the center of the Pseudo-Animate¡¯s room, allowing him to notice the inward sigh of reliefing from it. It then gradually made its way towards the pir in a calm manner, before eventually cing both of its hands on the pir.

    Just as the Grand Blue Master thought that the Pseudo-Animate would go ahead and circte its energy to enter the inheritance, he instead heard a statemente from the Pseudo-Animate itself, bringing it into a state of great shock.

    ¡°Hahaha! The Undying me Spirit shall always prevail because the Grand Blue is a big fucking coward!¡±

    ¡°¡­eh?¡± At first, the Grand Blue Master was left at a loss for words, wondering if what the Pseudo-Animate was real or not. Fortunately for him, the Pseudo-Animate repeated the statement two more times, allowing him to realize that he had not heard wrongly. What the Pseudo-Animate was saying was, in fact, real!

    Fwoosh!

    In an instant, an aura of intense fury surrounded the Grand Blue Master, covering the enormous room he resided in his wrath. A few secondster, spikes made out of ice started to manifest throughout the room, congregating with other spikes to form balls made out of ice spikes.

    ¡°That Pseudo-Animate dares to call me a coward?!¡± the Grand Blue Master was incredibly furious. When was he ever humiliated like this? ¡°I¡¯ve changed my mind! I¡¯ll give this Pseudo-Animate the hardest trial it would ever go through!¡±

    ¡°Telling me that I¡¯m a coward while the Undying me Spirit is always prevailing¡­how impudent!¡± he added onto his words, only to realize what he was saying. ¡°Wait a second¡­the Undying me Spirit shall always prevail¡­?¡±

    ¡°Did she really tell this Pseudo-Animate to use that code phrase?¡± Realizing what was happening, the Grand Blue Master let out a long sigh as to what was happening. His fury from before had now settled down, being reced with an aura of contemtion over the words the Pseudo-Animate said.

    ¡°I told her that the code phrase was a joke from the start, but she didn¡¯t believe me,¡± he continued to mutter to himself, feeling a bit of remorse from telling the Undying me Spirit, Eleanor, about this. The Grand Blue Master let out yet another sigh as he added, ¡°Then again, I was serious about making a code word in case we take in students.¡±

    ¡°I almost put this innocent Pseudo-Animate into a living hell,¡± he said before adding, ¡°Temper, Grand Blue. Temper.¡±

    After undergoing a series of emotions in that short instant, the Grand Blue Master then pondered over his next move regarding the Pseudo-Animate that entered. ¡°Since this Pseudo-Animate said the ¡®code word¡¯, then that means the Undying me Spirit took it in as a student.??

    While saying that, he scratched his head as he used more energy to enhance the quality of the image on the screen he was looking at. At the moment, he was looking at the Pseudo-Animate traveling through space to arrive at the first stage of the inheritance. ¡°What makes this Pseudo-Animate so different from other Pseudo-Animates that even the Undying me Spirit would be willing to take it in? It¡¯s just a measly Normal-grade Pseudo-Animate.¡±

    ¡°Oh well, I¡¯m bound to find out sooner orter,¡± the Grand Blue Master said to himself, formting a n on how he was going to treat this Pseudo-Animate in its trials. ¡°For now, I¡¯ll make the trials easier and increase the quality of the rewards it would be able to get.¡±

    With that in mind, he then manipted a great amount of energy from the inheritance towards certain ces. Concurrently, this energy also manipted the travel path of Argentum, since the trial he was going to undergo was a trial tailored by the Grand Blue Master himself.

    Just as he was feeling satisfied with his arrangements, a thought surfaced in his mind, easily making him ecstatic as he said, ¡°Yeah, I should add that as well! It¡¯s been a while since I¡¯ve used it anyway, so why not use it on a fellow friend¡¯s student?¡±

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    Manipting a bit more of the inheritance¡¯s energy, the thing that he wanted to happen had now been implemented in Argentum¡¯s trial, making the Grand Blue Master let out a light chuckle from satisfaction.

    ¡°Hmm¡­what else can I add?¡± the Grand Blue Master muttered to himself in a questioning tone, wondering if what he had done so far was more than enough. Eventually, a nice idea came to mind, prompting the Grand Blue Master to chuckle once more as he muttered, ¡°You know what, I¡¯ll do that as well. It would allow me to adjust the difficulty of the trials when needed.¡±

    ¡°Plus it wouldn¡¯t hurt to talk to a Pseudo-Animate anyway.¡±

 Chapter 244: What a Genius Pseudo-Animate!

    Chapter 244: What a Genius Pseudo-Animate!

    Whoosh!

    A few seconds have passed since Argentum had entered the inheritance through the method shown in Aurus¡¯s memories. At this moment, he had appeared in the center of what seemed to be a rectangr room. Other than that small difference, there was nothing else that could be greatly discerned. Like the room he was in before, the confines of the room were made out of chiseled ice, radiating a chilling aura as usual.

    Just as he was about to start walking to get a better feel of the room¡¯s dimensions, a whirring sound akin to a strong breeze soon resounded from one end of the rectangr room. Hearing this, Argentum had no choice but to focus his sense of vision towards the origin of the sound, the aura surrounding him bing that of confusion soon after.

    The sound came from one of the walls, wherein a bulletin board of some sort had manifested on it. Not long after, multiple squares appeared on this bulletin board, which was then filled in with pictures, texts, and numbers. Slightly confused yet curious to see what it was, Argentum gradually made his way towards it, his confusion increasing even further as he arrived in front of it.

    ¡°[Water Armor], 15 points?¡± He started to read through the texts and numbers written on the bulletin board, realizing that the texts pertained to the names of Water-based skills, while the numbers under it pertained to the currency needed to obtain the said skills. Of course, this naturally led him to wonder as to where he would get the currency to obtain those skills. Fortunately, it would not take long for his queries to be answered as a masculine voice resounded throughout the rectangr room he was in.

    ¡°Wee to the Grand Blue Inheritance, Pseudo-Animate,¡± the disembodied voice resounded, to which Argentum thought, ¡®Ah. The Grand Blue Inheritance is finally starting.¡¯

    At that moment, he shifted his focus from the bulletin board in front of him to the disembodied voice instead, wanting to make sure that he did not miss a single word from it. As he listened to the disembodied voice¡¯s next few words, he could not help but utter, ¡°¡­eh?¡±

    ¡°I am the master of the Grand Blue Inheritance, and I shall be the guide for your trials,¡± the disembodied voice continued to talk, introducing itself as the Grand Blue Master. Argentum was instantly in disbelief. A weak Pseudo-Animate like him would actually make the master of the Grand Blue Inheritance be his guide to the trials?

    Although he wanted to ask the master of the Grand Blue Inheritance whether or not it was truly him Argentum was talking to, thanks to the great disparity in their strength, Argentum opted to suppress this urge¡­only to find out that he did not need to.

    ¡°Since you¡¯ve been brought here by the Undying me Spirit, and you¡¯ve even said the code word, the trials you shall undertake are a bit different from the normal trials I give out to beings,¡± the Grand Blue Master¡¯s voice continued to resound throughout the room, shocking Argentum quite a bit.

    ¡®That statement was a bona fide code phrase?!¡¯ Argentum truly could not believe that defaming someone was actually a code phrase. Normally, the code phrases and code words he knew of, thanks to Aurus¡¯s memories, were of words and phrases rted to the organization or the person.

    ¡°Do you have any questions before we start the trial?¡± the Grand Blue Master continued to talk. ¡°If you do, feel free to ask.¡±

    ¡°Uh¡­¡± In response to the Grand Blue Master¡¯s words, Argentum hemmed and hawed for a bit, wondering if it was truly fine to ask such a lofty being like the master of the Grand Blue Inheritance questions. Eventually, he mustered up his courage and asked him, ¡°Master of the Grand Blue Inheritance, may I ask what the thing on that far end of the room is?¡±

    ¡°Good first question,¡± the Grand Blue Master said in response to Argentum¡¯s words before letting out a light chuckle. ¡°If you¡¯ve already read through its contents, then you know what it already is. It¡¯s none other than a shop screen. As long as you have enough points, then you can exchange those points for a skill on the shop screen.¡±

    ¡°Might I ask, Master of the Grand Blue Inheritance, how do I obtain the points necessary to exchange for those skills?¡± Argentum asked with a follow-up question, still feeling slightly nervous inside.

    ¡°You¡¯ll be obtaining them through the trials you¡¯ll undergo,¡± the Grand Blue Master replied. He then continued, ¡°Each trial, depending on how great your performance is, will reward you from 1 to 10 points. Since you¡¯re the Undying me Spirit¡¯s student, then the amount of trials you¡¯ll undergo is 10. With 10 trials, you can obtain a maximum of 100 points and a minimum of 10. In other words, you¡¯ll at least obtain one skill from this inheritance.¡±

    Listening to the Grand Blue Master¡¯s words for a bit, Argentum processed the exnation in his mind, eventually understanding what the master of the Grand Blue Inheritance was saying. With that, he then said in a grateful tone, ¡°Thank you for clearing up my doubts, Master of the Grand Blue Inheritance.¡±

    ¡°You don¡¯t have to call me the Master of the Grand Blue Inheritance every time, Pseudo-Animate,¡± the Grand Blue Master said in response to Argentum¡¯s words of gratitude, letting out a lightugh afterward. He then said, ¡°Calling me the Grand Blue Master is fine.¡±

    ¡°Speaking of which, is it fine if I know your name?¡± the Grand Blue Master followed up with a question of his own, to which Argentum replied, ¡°It would be Argentum, Grand Blue Master.¡±

    ¡°Argentum, huh¡­¡± Grand Blue Master repeated Argentum¡¯s name a few times in a mutter before letting out a short sigh. After doing so, he then went ahead and asked Argentum, ¡°So why did the Undying me Spirit ept you as her student, Argentum? It¡¯s quite weird for a Fire-based Pseudo-Animate to ept a Wind-based Pseudo-Animate as their student.¡±

    ¡°Uh¡­¡± Argentum did not know what to say. Of course, he could not tell him that he knew of the code word because Eleanor told him about it to make the Grand Blue Inheritance easier for him. In the end, Argentum said, ¡°I cannot disclose the reason.¡±

    ¡°Cannot disclose, huh?¡± the Grand Blue Master said before pondering over the reasons why. After some time, he asked Argentum, ¡°Is it because the Undying me Spirit told you to not tell others about it?¡±

    Argentum did not respond to the Grand Blue Master¡¯s question at all. He only remained silent. Noticing this, the Grand Blue Master let out yet another sigh before pondering over the possible reasons why Argentum became the Undying me Spirit¡¯s student.

    ¡°Is it because you¡¯re well-versed in the Fire element, even though you¡¯re a Wind-based Pseudo-Animate?¡± he asked, to which Argentum did not say anything in response.

    ¡°Or is it because you have a highprehension rate?¡± the Grand Blue Master asked after that, to which Argentum still did not respond.

    ¡°Or rather¡­though this is near impossible¡­¡± the Grand Blue Master said before pondering over it for a bit. He then continued with his previous train of thought, ¡°You¡¯re not the Undying me Spirit¡¯s student at all, but she told you the code word so you could have an easier time in my inheritance.¡±

    In response to the Grand Blue Master¡¯sst statement, Argentum maintained his silence. However, he was already screaming out inwardly that this was true. ¡®The reason why she told me the code word was because we¡¯re bound by a contract! She has a great amount of trust in me thanks to it! If not for this contract, then I wouldn¡¯t even know about this!¡¯

    Fortunately, Argentum suppressed his emotions to the limit, not showing any hint of shock or surprise in his aura. This, in turn, made the Grand Blue Master give up guessing as he let out a sigh. ¡°I guess I¡¯ll find out the reason why through the trials instead.¡±

    Hearing that, Argentum let out a sigh of relief. He was now able to rx his vignce¡­for now.

    After a minute or so of silence between the two of them, the Grand Blue Master went ahead and asked Argentum, ¡°Do you have any Water-based skills?¡±

    Argentum replied without hesitation, ¡°I have none, Grand Blue Master. I was originally only well-versed in Wind-based skills, but the Undying me Spirit gave me some Fire-based skills, allowing me to be slightly well-versed in the Fire element as well.¡±

    ¡°I see¡­¡± the Grand Blue Master said in a tone of understanding, thinking that the reason why Argentum became Eleanor¡¯s student was that he was great inprehending abilities.

    ¡°I¡¯ll have to see if it¡¯s true,¡± the Grand Blue Master muttered to himself as a wave of blue energy soon enveloped Argentum¡¯s body. Just as Argentum was slightly panicking over this wave of energy, the Grand Blue Master¡¯s voice calmed him down as he said, ¡°Since you don¡¯t have any Water-based skills, I¡¯ll give you the most basic Water skill any being could learn, [Lesser Water Magic].¡±

    Ding!

    A few secondster, a notification sound resounded in his mind, prompting Argentum to open up the notification screen in his mind to find out that, the Grand Blue Master actually gave him [Lesser Water Magic].

    ¡°Er¡­what am I going to do with this skill, Grand Blue Master?¡± Argentum soon asked after confirming that he had truly obtained [Lesser Water Magic]. In response, the Grand Blue Master replied, ¡°This is your first trial in this inheritance, Argentum.¡±

    He then continued, ¡°I want you to master [Lesser Water Magic] as fast as possible.¡±

    At first, Argentum was left at a loss for words thanks to what the Grand Blue Master said, thinking that he had to reach the Master level of mastery in order to pass this first trial. Fortunately, the Grand Blue Master added a few more words after that, allowing Argentum to have great confidence in clearing this first trial as fast as possible.

    ¡°Once you can fire out a [Water Bolt] from the skill, then you shall be considered to have cleared the first trial,¡± the Grand Blue Master said. ¡°Let the first trial begin!¡±

    With the Grand Blue Master signaling the start of the first trial, Argentum instantly put all of his focus towards [Lesser Water Magic], focusing his sense of vision towards the other end of the rectangr room. He then extended his right hand, allowing a mass of Water energy particles to manifest around it before congregating over his palm, forming into a ball of water.

    ¡°[Lesser Water Magic: Water Ball]!¡±

    Whoosh!

    After forming it, he then threw the water ball towards the other end of the rectangr room, exploding into multiple particles of water. While doing so, he could not help but mutter to himself, ¡°It seems that any kind of magic I learn would have a ball and a bolt as the first two spells.¡±

    On the other hand, the Grand Blue Master looked at Argentum throw the ball of water towards one end of the rectangr room, thinking to himself, ¡®I¡¯m surprised his control over the Water element ain¡¯t that half bad.¡¯

    Not long after, his surprise turned into that of shock as he watched Argentum throw out a second water ball. Although there was no difference in the water ball in terms of appearance, the power that was hidden inside it was multiple times higher than the first water ball Argentum threw.

    Just as the Grand Blue Master thought that his shock would end here, it had instead reached a higher level as he noticed that the spell Argentum was conjuring over his extended palm was not a ball of water anymore. It was instead in the shape¡­of a bolt!

    ¡°[Lesser Water Magic: Water Bolt]!¡±

    Whoosh! Bang!

    Although the bolt of water looked pretty scary, thanks to the low level of mastery Argentum had over the skill, the spell did not really pack that much punch behind it. Of course, this kind of attack was more than enough for him to kill a fellow Normal-grade Pseudo-Animate in one hit. Perhaps, he would even be able to kill a Magic-grade Pseudo-Animate in one hit. As for Grand-grade Pseudo-Animates, it would be doable if he employed his offense boosting skills and spells.

    After casting that single water bolt, Argentum¡¯s sense of vision was focused on the ceiling as he said, ¡°Grand Blue Master, I¡¯ve fired out a [Water Bolt].¡±

    ¡°Could you fire out one more?¡± the Grand Blue Master asked Argentum, his tone slightly skeptical. He could not believe that such a Pseudo-Animate was able to enhance their understanding of a skill to such a level in just two attacks. He muttered to himself, ¡°Is this the reason why Argentum was taken in by the Undying me Spirit as her student?¡±

    Oblivious to what was going on in the Grand Blue Master¡¯s mind, Argentum went ahead and conjured another bolt of water, which he fired towards the same end of the rectangr room. At the instant he was finished doing so, the Grand Blue Master said in a tone of slight disbelief, ¡°Y-you¡¯ve truly fired out a [Water Bolt]¡­what a genius.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re a genius Pseudo-Animate, Argentum,¡± the Grand Blue Master said to Argentum in a tone of awe, to which Argentum replied, ¡°I don¡¯t think I¡¯m a genius at all, Grand Blue Master. Beings like you are the true geniuses.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m already 26,587 years old,¡± the Grand Blue Master replied. ¡°With that in mind, do you still think I¡¯m a genius?¡±

    ¡°Yes.¡± Argentum nodded. Listening to Argentum¡¯s response, the Grand Blue Master let out a sigh before being reced with a chortle.

    He then took in a deep breath to calm down his excited self before saying, ¡°Since you¡¯ve fired out a [Water Bolt], you¡¯ve cleared the first trial. Due to the fast speed you¡¯ve cleared the trial, I¡¯ve decided to reward you with 15 points.¡±

    ¡°Eh? 15 points?¡± Argentum was slightly confused. ¡°Didn¡¯t you say the maximum was 10 points?¡±

    ¡°Are you going to ept the 15 points or not?¡± the Grand Blue Master radiated out a slightly irritated aura. Of course, in actuality, he wasn¡¯t really irritated.

    ¡°I¡¯ll ept, I¡¯ll ept it.¡± As for Argentum, he was inwardly ted to have obtained more than 10 points in the first trial. He had a feeling that these 5 extra points he had received would be the border between a powerful skill and a weak one.

    ¡°With the first trial now over¡­¡± the Grand Blue Master said after announcing Argentum¡¯s reward.

    ¡°Let¡¯s move onto the second trial!¡±

 Chapter 245: Utter Disbelief

    Chapter 245: Utter Disbelief

    ¡°With the first trial now over, let¡¯s move onto the second trial!¡± the Grand Blue Master said after he was finished announcing Argentum¡¯s rewards for the trial. At first, Argentum found it odd that the Grand Blue Master was not going to give the points he had earned to him. But then, he pondered over it for a bit and thought that it made sense.

    Unlike in the me Spirit Inheritance, in this inheritance, he would be able to choose the skills he wanted to learn from it. So what if the Grand Blue Master wanted to keep the points he had for now? With a great disparity in strength between the two of them, that meant that the Grand Blue Master also had a strict foundation of morals.

    Nevertheless, another question came to Argentum¡¯s mind whenever his thoughts revolved around the points he had obtained. With that in mind, he unhesitatingly asked the master of the inheritance, ¡°Grand Blue Master, am I able to use these points to obtain skills from the shop screen right now?¡±

    ???Hmm¡­¡± Not expecting such a question to be thrown at him, the Grand Blue Master pondered over it and thought that the question had valid reasons to it. Recalling thest time he used such a system, he would only allow the inheritors to use their points at the end of the numerous trials.

    ¡®But since this is the Undying me Spirit¡¯s student¡­hmm¡­should I make some leeway?¡¯ the Grand Blue Master thought to himself. After some time, a firm answer was formed in his mind. He then answered Argentum¡¯s question with this answer in mind, saying, ¡°For now, you are not permitted to use the points you have gained. I¡¯ll allow you to use them after you finish the second trial.¡±

    ¡°I understand,¡± Argentum replied in response.

    Rumble¡­rumble¡­

    After answering Argentum¡¯s query, the Grand Blue Master went ahead and infused a bit of his energy into the room where Argentum was in. This caused the ground to rumble while Argentum became more curious because of it. He then looked around the room and soon noticed that a hovering target of ice appeared opposite the shop screen. A few secondster, the target was then split into multiple sections, with each section gradually taking on a deeper hue of blue as it neared the center.

    Looking at this, Argentum could not help but scratch his head as to what kind of trial this was. He then recalled some of Aurus¡¯s memories from his previous life, thinking that the target in front of him was a crucial part of a game Aurus used to y back then.

    ¡°Darts?¡± he muttered to himself in a slightly uncertain tone. He then added, ¡°If it is, then where are the darts I need to throw?¡±

    Surprisingly, the Grand Blue Master was eavesdropping on Argentum muttering to himself, responding with, ¡°This second trial is not darts. That target you¡¯re looking at is a strength tester.¡±

    Hearing that the Grand Blue Master¡¯s response was rted to his usualpses of muttering, Argentum was inwardly shocked. He then took in a few deep breaths as he recalled the statement the master of the inheritance told him. With that in mind, he pointed towards the target and asked him, ¡°That¡¯s a strength tester? How so?¡±

    ¡°Go ahead andnd an attack on it,¡± the Grand Blue Master said to Argentum in response. ¡°After yound an attack on it, it¡¯ll calcte the amount of strength behind the attack and give you an urate representation of your strength in numbers. Of course, the higher it is, the better.¡±

    ¡°So¡­should I go ahead and punch it?¡± Argentum asked the Grand Blue Master before adding, ¡°Would it affect the second trial in any way?¡±

    ¡°Not at all,¡± the Grand Blue Master replied. ¡°Go ahead and try it out. Perhaps, the result you¡¯ll obtain from the target would shock you.¡±

    In response, Argentum nodded before making his way towards the target. At the instant he had arrived in front of the target, he clenched his right fist before cocking it backward in order to build up strength. He then channeled all of the strength in his body towards his right fist before sending it towards the target.

    Bang!

    A muffled explosion sound urred from the collision of Argentum¡¯s right fist and the target. Not only that, but a few fragments of ice had also spread thanks to the collision. As he retracted his right fist, he shook it for a few seconds as some of the force behind his right fist was sent back to him.

    He then looked at the target for a few seconds after that. After around ten seconds or so, the target¡¯s multiple sections started to light up as a few signs appeared on the target¡¯s center, manifesting into tworge numbers Argentum could understand.

    ¡°23¡­?¡± Looking at this number, Argentum was slightly confused. Since he did not use his magic here, which relied on his Intelligence stat, that meant that he was only relying on his Strength stat. Recalling how high his Strength stat was, he remembered that it was around 7. Fortunately, it did not take long for Argentum to realize that he had the [Boundless Potential] skill, which passively increased his stats, as well as the partial ownership title from the inheritance, which also increased his stats.

    ¡°If that¡¯s the case, then the number that would appear on the center of the target is equivalent to the stats in the system?¡± Argentum muttered to himself in a slightly curious tone, with thest portion of the statement being softer than usual. Of course, he could not reveal such a private thing to the Grand Blue Master, even though he and Eleanor were good friends. Heck, Eleanor did not even know that Argentum had such a system.

    ¡°System, show me my Strength stat,¡± Argentum inwardlymanded the system, to which the system replied with a screen appearing in his mind. It was then that Argentum found out that his assumption was correct. On the screen was the number 23 beside the word ¡®Strength¡¯, which was the same in the center of the target.

    Now knowing that the number on the target reflected the stats of the system, he could not help but wonder how high of a number he would be able to show if he used magic instead of his body. Not only that, but what if he also used all of his offense boosting buffs on top of that?

    ¡°23?¡± On the other hand, the Grand Blue Master was left at a loss for words as it looked at the number on the target. He remembered very well that such a stat was only achievable by a Pseudo-Animate at the Magic-grade, but a Normal-grade Pseudo-Animate like Argentum was able to unleash such power? Then again, this shock onlysted for a while as he remembered that Pseudo-Animates would have a few passive abilities that enhanced their stats. In his mind, he thought that Argentum had a passive ability that enhanced his strength.

    ¡®Surely, he wouldn¡¯t be able to show that much power as a Normal-grade Pseudo-Animate, right?¡¯ the Grand Blue Master thought to himself. ¡®If that¡¯s the case, then why would such a being be the Undying me Spirit¡¯s student?¡¯

    With the testing of the target now done, Argentum went ahead and said to the Grand Blue Master, ¡°My apologies for doubting the Grand Blue Master¡¯s words. The target is indeed a strength tester.¡±

    ¡°As long as you believe in it,¡± the Grand Blue Master said with a light chuckle. He then told him, ¡°Anyways, with you now done with testing the strength tester, let¡¯s officially start the second trial.¡±

    ¡°Your goal in this second trial is to make the tester show the number ¡®200¡¯ in the center,¡± the Grand Blue Master continued. He then exined, ¡°With the strength you¡¯ve exerted before, it would be easy for you to achieve such a number through the usage of a skill. Skills increase the power behind a being to unimaginable heights. If one were topare which one¡¯s stronger: A Normal-grade Pseudo-Animate with skills or an Epic-grade Pseudo-Animate with no skills, there¡¯s a high chance that the Normal-grade Pseudo-Animate would prevail.¡±

    ¡°And with that, I won¡¯t dy you any further,¡± the Grand Blue Master took in a deep breath before saying. ¡°Make the number ¡®200¡¯ appear in the center of the strength tester and you will have passed the second trial. Not only that, but you will also obtain 10 points if you do.¡±

    ¡°Got it,¡± Argentum said in response. Just as he was about to send an attack towards the target, a question surfaced in his mind, to which he asked the Grand Blue Master, ¡°Am I restricted to only Water-based skills?¡±

    ¡°Not at all,¡± the master of the inheritance said in response. ¡°You can use any skill you want to. Even status boosting buffs are allowed. I want to see the limit of your current strength.¡±

    ¡°I see,¡± Argentum said, only to let out a light giggle soon after. At this moment, he was incredibly confident that he could reach 200 without a problem. What he wanted to know was how high he could go as of now. With that in mind, he said to the Grand Blue Master with a confident tone, ¡°I¡¯d suggest that the Grand Blue Master¡¯s expectations should be set higher. I would probably reach around 500, perhaps?¡±

    ¡®500?¡¯ the Grand Blue Master thought to himself in slight confusion. ¡®A power at that level would be around Legendary-grade already. Surely, Argentum could not unleash such a level of power, right? Even with all of the skills he has, he wouldn¡¯t be able to do that, right?¡¯

    ¡®But why do I have the feeling that he¡¯d be able to do it, then?¡¯ the Grand Blue Master inwardly asked himself soon after, to which he let out a sigh and muttered, ¡°Let¡¯s just see how strong he truly is.¡±

    Taking a deep breath, Argentum took a few steps back from the target, knowing very well that he was going to use a magic spell. He then went ahead and started activating his status boosting buffs.

    ¡°[Enhanced Offense]!¡±

    Whoosh!

    In an instant, a faint red aura started to emanate from Argentum, giving him the feeling that he had the power to crush anything in his path. Soon after, he shouted ¡°[Zephyr Ascendance+],¡± enhancing the faint red aura surrounding him to a greater degree, giving the Grand Blue Master a faint feeling that Argentum now had the stats of a Magic-grade Pseudo-Animate.

    ¡°[Intermediate ze Magic: Ignis Burst Omega]!¡± Argentum said after the previous skill, making Argentum give off the feeling that he was the incarnation of mes. Of course, [Ignis Burst Omega] was the enhanced version of [Ignis Burst] after he had evolved [Lesser ze Magic+] to its current form.

    After that, he went ahead and raised his right palm as a ball of Wind energy particles manifested over it. A few secondster, this ball of wind condensed into a smaller ball as arger ball surrounded it. This process continued for a few times, eventually forming into a ball that was light green on the surface, but dark green in the center.

    While looking at it, the Grand Blue Master could not help but feel that the power behind this particr ball was at a level impossible for a Normal-grade Pseudo-Animate to achieve. With that in mind, he could not help but mutter to himself in slight curiosity, ¡°Does Argentum¡­truly have such power?¡±

    ¡°[Intermediate Tempest Magic].¡±

    ¡°[Viridescent Zephyr st]!¡±

    Whoosh!

    Without hesitation, Argentum threw this condensed ball of Wind energy particles towards the target, heading towards it at great speeds. At the very instant the condensed ball of wind and the target collided, an incredibly deafening explosion was created from it, prompting Argentum to take a few steps back while the Grand Blue Master was left at a loss for words, in great disbelief that such a being would be able to achieve that much power.

    Eventually, everything had settled down, allowing Argentum to see a target filled with great cracks all over it. Nevertheless, it was still able to do its job as it gradually lit up around half a minuteter, forming a few signs in the center of it.

    With both Argentum and the Grand Blue Master¡¯s eyes peeled towards the number that was going to appear in the center of the target, the target eventually formed a number, starting from the double digits.

    After a few seconds, the number had reached the triple digits, making Argentum inwardly chuckle as he muttered to himself, ¡°I¡¯m pretty sure that the number will have four digits at least.¡±

    On the other hand, the Grand Blue Master looked at the number and asked himself, ¡°Eh? The number isn¡¯t stopping yet. You¡¯re telling me that Argentum truly had the evidence to back up his words.¡±

    After a few more seconds, the number on the center of the target had reached four digits, making Argentum incredibly ted while the Grand Blue Master was stupefied. He was truly in utter disbelief.

    Eventually, the number on the target stopped, revealing a four-digit number to both Argentum and Grand Blue Master.

    ¡°2775¡­¡± Looking at this number, Argentum was incredibly satisfied. In his mind, he converted this number into the Animate levels, allowing him to mutter to himself that he was now invincible amongst all Rank 0 Animates, and even a few newly ascended Rank 1 Animates at that.

    ¡°2775¡­?!¡± As for the Grand Blue Master, he could not help but blink a few times after looking at it. He then focused his sense of vision towards Argentum, who already had all of his status boosting buffs disabled. To him, it felt like the Argentum he was looking at right now and the Argentum that attacked a while ago were two different people.

    In the end, he could not help but let out a sigh as he muttered to himself, ¡°A level of power that could even rival those higher than the Transcendent-grade¡­not to mention an incredibly highprehension rate.¡±

    ¡°Under the tutge of the Undying me Spirit, how far would he be able to go?¡±

 Chapter 246: The Big Reveal

    Chapter 246: The Big Reveal

    After the two found out how impossibly strong Argentum was for a Normal-grade Pseudo-Animate, the target, which was now filled to the brim withrge cracks, soon disappeared from the confines of the room where Argentum was. While looking at the target gradually disappear, Argentum could not help but inwardly imagine as to how strong he would be after he evolves to the Magic-grade. Not only that, but he also imagined how strong he would be if he sessfully clears the first Power Baptism.

    Thinking about the first baptism, Argentum muttered to himself, ¡°I think I have enough power right now to take on the first baptism.¡± A few secondster, he discarded this thought in his mind as he continued, ¡°On second thought, I¡¯ll postpone the Power Baptism after I¡¯ve finished raiding Verdant Breeze Town.¡±

    ¡°For now, I¡¯ll just continue to umte more strength through my skills,¡± he said to himself before bing silent, waiting for the Grand Blue Master¡¯s next words.

    Surprisingly, even after a minute of waiting, Argentum heard nothing from the Grand Blue Master. This made him wonder what had happened to him. But since he had no abilities that would allow him to check up on the Grand Blue Master, he had no choice but to wait. Fortunately, after five minutes, the Grand Blue Master finally sent a response to Argentum, which was that of a long and heavy sigh.

    ¡°You¡¯re incredible, Argentum,¡± the Grand Blue Master said to him with a tone of awe. ¡°To think that you¡¯re able to unleash a power not just a few grades above you, but multiple grades above you, is quite a remarkable feat.¡±

    ¡°I did tell you to increase your expectations right, Grand Blue Master?¡± In response, Argentum replied in a confident yet slightly arrogant tone. Then again, unleashing such a level of power at his level is near impossible unless one devoted a lot of their time while stuck at the first grade of the Pseudo-Animate existence level. Of course, Argentum was only able to do this thanks to the Comprehension Leaves Aurus had absorbed from the Area 52 Inheritance.

    ¡°Since I¡¯ve surpassed your goal for this trial by an insane amount, don¡¯t you think the rewards I get from this trial should reflect that as well?¡± Argentum asked the Grand Blue Master not long after with a light snicker. He then added, ¡°Let¡¯s say¡­around 100 points or so?¡±

    Surprisingly, the Grand Blue Master let out a sigh of relief after hearing Argentum say those words. Listening to the master of the inheritance sigh, Argentum tilted his head in slight confusion, wondering why the Grand Blue Master let out a sigh of relief. A few secondster, the Grand Blue Master let out a chortle before saying, ¡°I¡¯m d you thought of the same thing as me, Argentum. You know what they say, great minds think alike.¡±

    ¡°By the same thing¡­¡± At first, Argentum was not getting what the Grand Blue Master was trying to imply. But then, he pondered over it for a bit, realizing what the Grand Blue Master was pertaining to by adding, ¡°¡­do you mean the 100 points as a reward for this trial?¡±

    ¡°That was a joke, Grand Blue Master,¡± Argentum said after that. ¡°I know that you treat every being that enters this inheritance impartially. I¡¯m already grateful that you¡¯ve allowed me to have you as a guide thanks to me bing the Undying me Spirit¡¯s student. Seriously, that alone is enough.¡±

    Responding to Argentum¡¯s words of gratitude, the Grand Blue Master said, ¡°With your level of power, what¡¯s the point of going through formalities just to arrive at the same ending. You¡¯d be able to easily clear all of them with the power you¡¯ve just shown me, since almost all of the trials I had nned for you were mostly based on fighting.¡±

    ¡°Power determines everything. That¡¯s one of the rules I follow in life,¡± the Grand Blue Master continued with his response. ¡°And well, you¡¯ve shown me that you have enough power to change the course of this trial altogether.¡±

    ¡°Since you¡¯ve gone well beyond the goal of the second trial, I, as the Grand Blue Master, have decided to bestow upon you 135 points, bringing the total amount of points you have to 150,¡± the Grand Blue Master soon announced Argentum¡¯s rewards before adding, ¡°If you refuse, then that¡¯s just humble-bragging.¡±

    In the end, Argentum did not respond to the Grand Blue Master as he silently epted the Grand Blue Master¡¯s reward. It was only after a minute or so did Argentum talk with the Grand Blue Master once again, asking him, ¡°So¡­what now? Do I continue with the trials?¡±

    ¡°For the sake of keeping up some formalities, you do,¡± the Grand Blue Master replied. He then pondered over what kind of trial would be a good fit for Argentum before finding one type that would make the next few trials interesting. With that in mind, ¡°In this next trial, you won¡¯t be allowed to use any other skill you have except for Water-based skills.¡±

    ¡°Only Water-based skills?¡± Hearing this, Argentum wondered what was going on in the Grand Blue Master¡¯s mind. He then tried to infer the hidden meaning between his words, concluding that he would probably need to use the points he had obtained just now to increase the amount of Water-based skills he had in preparation for the next trial.

    After listening to the Grand Blue Master¡¯s next statement, Argentum found out that his assumptions were correct.

    ¡°That is one of the reasons why I¡¯ve given you 135 points as a reward for this second trial. I¡¯ll give you around two hours to prepare for the third trial. Of course, within these two hours, you have to choose the skills you want from the shop screen on one end of the room you¡¯re in, and enhance them to a decently high level if you want a fighting chance in this next trial.¡± This was what the Grand Blue Master said.

    ¡°Your two hours starts now,¡± the Grand Blue Master said after that, before going ahead and conjuring a timer made out of energy on the other side of Argentum¡¯s room, gradually ticking down with every second that passes. After looking at the slowly ticking timer for a few seconds, Argentum then went ahead and focused his sense of vision towards the shop screen, knowing the first few skills that he was going to choose.

    ¡°[Water Affinity] and [Water Resistance].¡± At the very instant Argentum arrived in front of the screen, he went ahead and bought these skills, which cost him 25 points. A few secondster, these two skills soon appeared in his skill list while he continued to look for skills that would enhance his fighting ability in the next trial.

    ¡°[Azure Armor], huh. Not a bad defensive skill,¡± Argentum said as he scrolled through the screen, finding a defensive Water-based skill that suited him. This skill cost 20 points, which meant that the performance of this skill was not something to be scoffed at.

    ¡°Are there any status boosting skills in here?¡± Buying the skills he really wanted from the inheritance, as well as a defensive skill, Argentum then moved onto buying one of the most important types of skills he needed to have. Without it, he would not be able to exert a level of power simr to the one he showed in the previous trial. Fortunately, after scrolling for some time, he was able to find one. But after he looked at the price of the skill, he said, ¡°Holy shit. That¡¯s expensive.¡±

    Nevertheless, Argentum bit the bullet and bought the Water-based status boosting skill with the name [Azure Enhancement]. This skill cost him 45 points, which was the same amount of points needed for him to buy the three previous skills he bought from the shop screen. Just as he was about to continue buying a few more misceneous skills in order to fill in the remaining gaps, a thought surfaced in his mind, telling him that the skills he currently had were more than enough.

    ¡°Then again, I won¡¯t fully focus on the Water element anyway,¡± Argentum said to himself, agreeing with the thought he had in mind. He then added, ¡°I¡¯ll just have to grind the skills I¡¯ve obtained as much as possible. Of course, I¡¯ll focus on a few of those skills even more.¡±

    ¡°But I still have 60 points left,¡± Argentum muttered to himself. ¡°What should I buy with these points?¡±

    And so, Argentum went ahead and scrolled through the shop screen, wanting to find a skill or two that would leave him with no points left. Surprisingly, Argentum found a skill that fit the bill, which also helped increase his fighting power for the next trial even further. While looking at it, he muttered, ¡°An ultimate skill¡­huh.¡±

    Ding!

    ¡®You have obtained the ultimate skill [Azure Wave Art].¡¯

    After buying thisst skill, Argentum then went ahead and focus all of his attention on grinding all of the skills he had bought from the shop screen.

    ¡­

    In a deeper portion of the Grand Blue Inheritance.

    The Grand Blue Master was sitting on a chair made out of his energy, seriously looking at the screen in front of him. On this screen was none other than Argentum, who was currently assiduously grinding all of his skills. While looking at him, he could not help but mutter to himself, ¡°What made Eleanor choose this Pseudo-Animate as her student?¡±

    ¡°I guess I¡¯ll find it out from the source,¡± the Grand Blue Master said after contemting over it for a while. A few secondster, he then conjured arge ball of his energy, which was then sent towards a certain direction outside the inheritance. After a minute or so, arge ball of energy, which was familiar to the Grand Blue Master, was sent inside the inheritance, prompting him to use his energy to prate through it.

    At that instant, the Grand Blue Master felt a connection with a certain being as its voice resounded in his mind.

    ¡°So what made the great Grand Blue Master call me, the triumphant Undying me Spirit?¡± this feminine voice resounded in his mind before being followed up with a chuckle. In response, the Grand Blue Master took in a deep breath before telling her in a serious tone, ¡°Eleanor, I want to ask you a question.¡±

    ¡°Well this is a rare urrence,¡± the feminine voice, who was actually Eleanor, said in response to his words before snickering. ¡°Anyways, as long as it doesn¡¯t involve money, feel free to ask.¡±

    ¡°Did you take in a Pseudo-Animate named Argentum as your student?¡± the Grand Blue Master soon asked her, to which she responded, ¡°Indeed, I have. What¡¯s the problem?¡±

    ¡°What¡¯s the reason behind taking that Pseudo-Animate as your student?¡± he continued to ask before adding, ¡°Also, why did he enter my inheritance?¡±

    ¡°Let me answer your second question first,¡± Eleanor said in response to his question. ¡°The reason why he entered your inheritance was that he was on a journey to learn the skills regarding the four foundational elements. Then again, I might not be right on this one since he did not disclose the reason as to why with me. He just told me that he was going to your inheritance. My answer is just pure inference.¡±

    ¡°Anyways, how is he doing in your inheritance? Is he doing great?¡± she followed up with this question, to which the Grand Blue Master said, ¡°He¡¯s doing something I haven¡¯t seen from a Normal-grade Pseudo-Animate before. The first trial he underwent was a test ofprehension speed, to which he showed me a monstrous level ofprehension speed. And then, the second trial he underwent was a test of strength, to which he showed a level of strength that¡¯s already a few notches lower than ours.¡±

    ¡°Eh? That much?¡± Eleanor could not believe what she was hearing. Although she told Argentum to use the facade of him being her student to cover the reason for knowing the code word, she did not expect that Argentum truly had heaven-defying talent. Just as she was about to inquire more regarding his abilities, the Grand Blue Master went back to his previous train of thought as he asked, ¡°Wait a second, I just asked you the reason as to why you took Argentum in as your student. You haven¡¯t answered it yet.¡±

    At first, Eleanor became flustered since she did not know what to say. But then, she remembered what the Grand Blue Master told him, letting out a light chuckle as she replied in a confident tone, ¡°I¡¯ve taken him for the same reason why you¡¯re shocked. His insaneprehension speed, as well as his highbat power. If not for that, I wouldn¡¯t have even taken him in the first ce.¡±

    ¡°I see,¡± the Grand Blue Master said to Eleanor, as if he finally understood. He then told her, ¡°Alright, then. I guess I¡¯ll have to increase the difficulty of the third trial far higher than I thought. Thanks, Eleanor!¡±

    ¡°No problem!¡± Eleanor said in response, only to realize what the Grand Blue Master told her.

    ¡°¡­huh?¡±

 Chapter 247: Azure Wave Art

    Chapter 247: Azure Wave Art

    Inside the me Spirit Inheritance.

    ¡°Ah shit, what should I do?¡± Eleanor asked himself in a slight panic. Just a while ago, she was talking with the Grand Blue Master regarding the reasons why Argentum was inside his inheritance. The Grand Blue Master also asked her regarding the reasons as to why she epted him as her student. Fortunately, with a small trick, she was able to answer his questions without a problem, but it seemed that it indirectly led to the Grand Blue Master making Argentum¡¯s next trial harder than usual.

    ¡°Ah, what should I do?¡± Eleanor asked himself one more time, finally remembering that she had a strong connection with Argentum through the contract. At first, she wanted to teleport to where Argentum was. But then, she thought that it would reveal their true rtionship as co-owners of the me Spirit Inheritance. Of course, Eleanor also thought of it from an optimistic perspective, thinking that such an ability would be normal since Eleanor would be able to protect Argentum at any time. Nevertheless, she decided to not use the ability.

    ¡°Should I just talk to him through the connection instead?¡± she asked herself not long after, to which she shook her head after a few seconds. Although it did not seem like it, the words said by the Grand Blue Master in their conversation a while ago gave Eleanor an idea as to what Argentum was currently doing. ¡°From what the Grand Blue Master, it seems that the next trial hasn¡¯t started yet, which means that the Grand Blue Master gave Argentum a small break.¡±

    ¡°I presume that Argentum is currently enhancing his understanding over the multiple abilities he has,¡± Eleanor said to herself not long after, thinking that this was the most usible thing Argentum was doing now. In fact, she was half-correct. Argentum was indeed grinding his skills, but not all of it. Due to the limitations set to him by the Grand Blue Master for the next trial, he was only focusing on the Water skills he had just bought from the shop screen avable to him.

    After thinking up of possible solutions for a bit, in the end, Eleanor gave up thinking about it, letting out a sigh in the process. She then conjured a chair using her energy, which she sat on soon after. She then looked towards one of the walls and muttered to herself, ¡°ording to the Grand Blue Master, Argentum has greatprehension speed and greatbat power. I¡¯ll just have to believe in that.¡±

    ¡°No matter what, Argentum, please pass through this next trial.¡±

    ¡­

    Around two hours have passed since Argentum had started grinding all of the Water-based skills he had to greater heights. Fortunately, since he was only focusing on a few skills rather than the numerous amount of skills he would usually focus on, the rate of improvement for these skills was insanely high.

    The two passive skills he had obtained from the shop screen, which were [Water Affinity] and [Water Resistance] respectively, had both reached the Transcendent level. Although he had a feeling that [Water Resistance] would not be able to help him in the next trial prepared by the Grand Blue Master, [Water Affinity] would still be able to help him out since this skill focused on enhancing the efficacy of Water-based skills.

    The skills that he focused on were [Lesser Water Magic], which was given to him by the Grand Blue Master in the first trial, and [Azure Enhancement], which he had bought from the shop screen for 40 points. In his mind, these two skills were the most important skills he had to raise to improve hisbat power, thus hastily making them reach the Master level of mastery before going ahead and evolving them, their names ending up as [Lower Azure Magic+] and [Great Blue Ascension+] respectively. He then went ahead and raised them to the Basic level of mastery after evolving both of them.

    As for [Azure Armor], the defensive skill he bought, and [Azure Wave Art], the ultimate skill whose power is still unknown, although they were not that importantpared to the first two skills, he was still able to raise both of them to the Artisan level of mastery, increasing their performance to a considerably high level.

    With him feeling that the skills he had obtained were now at a sufficient level of performance, Argentum went ahead and waited for the Grand Blue Master¡¯s announcement that the third trial was going to begin. Fortunately, he did not have to wait long, only waiting for a couple of minutes or so before the Grand Blue Master¡¯s voice resounded throughout the room he was in.

    ¡°Argentum, your two hours are up,¡± the Grand Blue Master said before a snapping sound was heard.

    Whoosh!

    Not long after the snapping sound, the shop screen, which took up one wall of the room Argentum was in before, was now gone. Argentum naturally noticed this and pondered whether the disappearance of the shop screen was rted to the mechanics of the next trial he was going to go through. Surprisingly, his assumption was correct as the Grand Blue Master started to exin the mechanics of the third trial.

    ¡°I assume you¡¯ve enhanced the Water-based skills you¡¯ve bought, right?¡± the Grand Blue Master asked him, to which Argentum nodded and said, ¡°Indeed, I have, Grand Blue Master. What¡¯s the reason for it?¡±

    In response, the Grand Blue Master let out a small snicker as he replied, ¡°I presume you¡¯ve noticed that the shop screen in your room has disappeared.¡± Argentum nodded at those words.

    ¡°If your train of thought is exactly like mine, then you already know what this third trial will be about,¡± the Grand Blue Master continued. ¡°This third trial¡­is none other than a fighting trial!¡±

    Swoosh!

    A few secondster, the rectangr room Argentum was in¡­had instantly transformed into arge square room with an arena made out of ice in the center. Unexpectedly, Argentum was already inside this arena, at one end of it. Just as he was about to ask who his opponent was going to be, the Grand Blue Master was one step faster than him.

    ¡°The rules of this third trial is simple. You just have to defeat the opponent,¡± the Grand Blue Master said. ¡°Of course, you¡¯re only limited to the usage of Water-based skills. Once you use any skills that are not based on the Water element, you are automatically disqualified. Is that clear?¡±

    ¡°Understood,¡± Argentum replied.

    ¡°As for your opponent in this trial¡­¡± The Grand Blue Master then went ahead and snapped his fingers once more, allowing a mass of Water energy particles to congregate towards the opposite end of the arena. Argentum went ahead and used [Clear Sight+], which was the evolution of [Keen Vision], to get a better look at what was happening on the opposite end. After a few seconds of staring at the mass of Water energy particles, Argentum was left at a loss for words, finally understanding why he was only limited to the usage of Water-based skills.

    On the other end of the arena, which was finally uncovered by the Water energy particles, was a Pseudo-Animate that was heavily inclined towards the Earth element. Although Argentum wanted to know how the Grand Blue Master had such a being in his inheritance, he knew that it was useless for him to think about, deciding to focus on the fight itself.

    As for the Grand Blue Master, at the very instant the Water energy particles covering the Earth-based Pseudo-Animate to Argentum, he could not help but let out a chortle as he muttered to himself, ¡°Fortunately, I was able to make a few Earth-based Pseudo-Animates as friends while I was traveling back then. Then again, it¡¯s kind of surprising how they were fine with giving me a peak Magic-grade Pseudo-Animate for Argentum to fight with. Do they treat the weaker Pseudo-Animates of the same element as bargaining chips or something?¡±

    ¡°Either way, I¡¯ll just see what Argentum does in this fight,¡± the Grand Blue Master said to himself not long after as he pondered over what the next trial could be.

    Noticing that Argentum was incredibly vignt towards the Earth-based Pseudo-Animate on the opposite end of the arena he was in, the Grand Blue Master went ahead and started the third trail as he shouted, ¡°Let the third trial begin!¡±

    Whoosh!

    After hearing the go signal from the Grand Blue Master, rather than Argentum taking the initiative to make a move, it was instead the Earth-based Pseudo-Animate that made the first move, pushing out with its right palm as multiple spikes made out of earth headed towards Argentum. In response, Argentum activated [Great Blue Ascension+] as he dodged the skill, before going ahead and activating [Azure Armor].

    Swoosh!

    In an instant, Argentum¡¯s body was covered in ayer of blue energy. When one looked at thisyer of blue energy, they would get the feeling that the chances of an attack passing through such ayer were incredibly low. Then again, Argentum was not finished with his status boosting preparations.

    ¡°[Lower Azure Magic: Aqua Burst]!¡±

    Ssh!

    Not long after activating [Azure Armor], a faint blue aura covered thisyer of energy, enhancing the feeling that theyer of blue energy was near imprable. Unlike [Zephyr Burst], which focused on improving movement speed, and [Ignis Burst], which focused on enhancing offensive abilities, [Aqua Burst] was a skill that enhanced the properties of currently activated skills. Of course, it could focus on one skill, which in this case, was [Azure Armor].

    ¡°It¡¯s time for me to make my move!¡± Argentum shouted as the distance between him and the Earth-based Pseudo-Animate had lessened to a great degree. Raising his right hand while a bolt of water was conjured, he then shot it towards the Earth-based Pseudo-Animate, shouting, ¡°[Water Bolt]!¡±

    Whoosh! Bang!

    Surprisingly, the Earth-based Pseudo-Animate took the attack head-on, taking off a chunk of its body in the process. Nevertheless, it did not feel any significant pain from the attack at all, letting out a snicker as it asked Argentum, ¡°Is that all you¡¯ve got?¡±

    ¡°If so, that¡¯s quite disappointing,¡± the Earth-based Pseudo-Animate continued as it pped loudly, sending a shockwave of Earth energy particles towards Argentum.

    ¡°[Earthquake]!¡±

    Whoosh!

    In response, Argentum went ahead and dodged the attack once more, closing the gap between him and the Earth-based Pseudo-Animate in an instant. At the instant the gap was closed, Argentum positioned himself at the back of the Earth-based Pseudo-Animate as he conjured a stronger Water-based spell from [Lower Azure Magic+], only for him to hear a chuckle from the Earth-based Pseudo-Animate as it kicked with its left foot backward, sending multiple spikes of earth towards Argentum as he was sent flying.

    Crash!

    Fortunately, the attack was only able to send Argentum flying. Thanks to [Azure Armor] and [Aqua Burst], he had not rued any damage from the attack at all. If anything, he only rued a momentarily feeling of soreness from thending. He then hastily got up before increasing the gap between him and the Earth-based Pseudo-Animate.

    In response to this, the Earth-based Pseudo-Animate asked him, ¡°What? You scared of me or something? What happened to the Pseudo-Animate I was fighting a while ago?¡±

    Argentum did not bother responding to the Earth-based Pseudo-Animate taunts at all, deciding to mutter a few unintelligible incantations instead, which gave the Earth-based Pseudo-Animate an ominous feeling the moment it heard it.

    Swoosh!

    Mustering all of the strength in its body, it hastily dashed to where Argentum was before extending both palms towards him. It then channeled all of the energy in its body towards both palms before sending out a massive spike made out of earth, which headed towards Argentum at great speeds.

    ¡°[Mountain Spike]!¡±

    Looking at therge spike that was heading towards him, Argentum, who had just finished chanting in a mutter, let out a small snicker as he muttered, ¡°It seems that¡­even at the lowest grade¡­¡±

    ¡°An ultimate skill still deserves to be called an ultimate art.¡±

    Whoosh!

    In an instant, he made a horizontal slicing motion with his right hand, instantly splitting the earth spike that wasing at him in two as he said, ¡°[Azure Wave Art, First Movement].¡±

    ¡°[Frigid Wave]!¡±

    Thud! Thud!

    With the attack Argentum made removing the momentum from the now split earth spike, it fell onto the ground with a thud while the Earth-based Pseudo-Animate was left at a loss for words as it looked at Argentum like a monster.

    ¡°What did that Pseudo-Animate do just now?¡± it asked itself in slight confusion as it looked at the two halves of the earth spike that had fallen. It then focused its sense of vision back at Argentum, only to feel that the Pseudo-Animate it was facing up against was now dangerous.

    Rather than flee from him, the Earth-based Pseudo-Animate went ahead and fired more earth spikes, to which Argentum cut with a [Frigid Wave]. Surprisingly, for every [Frigid Wave] he uses, the closer he gets to the Earth-based Pseudo-Animate, which made the dangerous feeling it felt towards Argentum be more prominent.

    Eventually, the gap between the two was non-existent yet again. But this time, the Earth-based Pseudo-Animate radiated an aura of fear as it looked at Argentum. Incredibly anxious, it asked him, ¡°What are you¡­going to do next?¡±

    ¡°Well, what else do you want me to do?¡± Argentum said with a light giggle. ¡°The Grand Blue Master did tell me to defeat you.¡±

    ¡°So defeat you, I will.¡±

    ¡°[Azure Wave Art, Third Movement].¡±

    ¡°[Roaring Waves]!¡±

    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!

    In an instant, four waves of blue energy had been shot out by Argentum, which cut off the four limbs that the Earth-based Pseudo-Animate had. Soon after, the Earth-based Pseudo-Animate fell to the ground with a thud, with the same going for its cut-off limbs.

    On the other hand, Argentum looked at the Earth-based Pseudo-Animate for a bit, radiating an aura of slight remorse before saying, ¡°I apologize for doing this. I had to do it.¡±

    A few secondster, as he walked away from the Earth-based Pseudo-Animate, the Grand Blue Master¡¯s voice resounded throughout the room, shouting, ¡°You have sessfully defeated the opponent!¡±

    ¡°Argentum, you have cleared the third trial!¡±

 Chapter 248: Hatching Plans

    Chapter 248: Hatching ns

    XXXX Continent, Seraph Kingdom, inside the Ninth Prince¡¯s pavilion.

    ¡°An exnation on the war for the throne, huh¡­¡± the Ninth Prince muttered as he ced his index finger and thumb under his chin. He then rubbed his chin with both fingers as he asked himself, ¡°Where should I start?¡±

    For a while, Vanadir pondered over Erea¡¯s question. Eventually, after taking another sip of his tea, he went ahead and directly looked at Erea before answering, ¡°If I were to sum it all up, the war for the throne is more or less apetition wherein only one team survives.¡±

    ¡°Only one team survives?¡± Erea could not help but repeat the Ninth Prince¡¯s words, imagining such a situation in her head. Little by little, herplexion became pale as she could not help but ask him a while after, ¡°Does that mean that¡­the people that participate in this war for the throne would ultimately die as well?¡±

    Listening to her response, Vanadir¡¯s eyes slightly widened in surprise, wondering as to how she got to that conclusion. After some time, he understood where Erea wasing from as he shook his head. He then told her, ¡°Ah, not at all. I guess it was my fault for indirectly leading you to that conclusion with my words.¡±

    ¡°To be more exact, only one out of the twelve princes survive in thispetition,¡± he added. Vanadir then continued, ¡°As for the members of the teams, they¡¯re given a lot of safety measures that would allow them to stay safe even if the prince they¡¯ve allied with dies in the matches.¡±

    Erea could not help but shiver while listening to the Ninth Prince¡¯s response. She thought to herself, ¡®Does a kingdom really have to resort to such measures to nominate who the next ruler would be?¡¯

    With this thought in mind, she then asked Vanadir, ¡°Is there a reason as to why only one prince can only survive in the war for the throne?¡±

    ¡°Quite a lot more than you¡¯d expect,¡± the Ninth Prince responded before continuing, ¡°With the other princes dead, there would be no coups led by the other princes who are dissatisfied with the winning prince.¡±

    He then added, ¡°Second, some of the princes participating in the war for the throne harbor malicious intent towards the prize. By killing them, it would allow the kingdom to continue with its peaceful method of ruling.¡±

    ¡°I understand the first reason, but¡­¡± Erea muttered as she pondered over Vanadir¡¯s words. Eventually, she continued, ¡°What if the winner turns out to be a prince with malicious intent? What happens then?¡±

    ¡°Surprisingly, the king himself would be the one to make a move, killing that prince without hesitation,¡± Vanadir said without batting an eye, which made Erea slightly shiver inwardly. A few secondster, the Ninth Prince smiled as he said, ¡°Of course, I¡¯m not like those princes.¡±

    ¡°I see.¡± Erea processed and organized all of the words said by Vanadir, eventually nodding in understanding.

    All this time, Dane was looking at the two converse back and forth while he sipped on his tea. Noticing that the two have finished with their questions, he took the initiative to say to Vanadir, ¡°Your Highness, I¡¯ve obtained some great bits of news beforeing here.¡±

    ¡°Oh?¡± In response, Vanadir raised his eyebrows before smiling. ¡°As expected from my advisor. I knew I could count on you.¡±

    ¡°Anyways, what is it?¡± he then asked, to which Dane replied, ¡°Beforeing here, this student of mine here was trying to be poached by another prince¡¯s team.¡±

    ¡°Is that so?¡± the Ninth Prince said, cing his index finger and thumb under his chin once more before rubbing. ¡°Do you know which prince¡¯s team it was?¡±

    Dane nodded in response to the Ninth Prince¡¯s question before saying, ¡°Indeed I do, Your Highness. I shall not talk about the person that tried to poach my great student Erea here, but the prince behind this person is the Tenth Prince.¡±

    ¡°The Tenth Prince?¡± Expecting another prince to be mentioned, Vanadir could not help but stand up from his seat in disbelief. He was not expecting that sort of prince to make a move. Wondering if he had heard wrongly, he looked at Dane and asked for assurance, ¡°By the Tenth Prince¡­you mean Sauro, right?¡±

    ¡°Indeed. Prince Sauro Altaris-Seraph,¡± Dane said as he nodded.

    Sensing that his advisor did not lie to him, the Ninth Prince went ahead and sat down on his chair with an aura of slight defeat as he muttered, ¡°To think that Sauro woulde and join in the war for the throne as well. That scheming bastard would definitely make the road to victory harder. Is he aiming for the prize?¡±

    ¡°Uh¡­¡± All of a sudden, Erea went ahead and interrupted the conversation between the two of them as she asked Vanadir, ¡°I apologize for interrupting your conversation with Teacher, Your Highness. I would like to ask though. Who¡¯s Prince Sauro? Also, judging from your words, Your Highness, what kind of prize does the war for the throne have to make other princes join?¡±

    Up to this moment, Erea thought that the princes of the Seraph Kingdom were forced to participate in the war for the throne since it had something to do with the future of the kingdom. But after listening to their conversation, it seemed that the princes joining in the war were mostly based on volunteering. Of course, she wondered as to how all of the princes with malicious intent would be killed off if they did not participate in the war, but it did not take long for her to conclude that the Seraph Kingdom had their own methods to do so.

    Scratching his head for a bit, the Ninth Prince responded to Erea¡¯s words, saying, ¡°It¡¯s fine if you interrupt us. Your teacher would be fine with that as well, no?¡±

    In response, Dane nodded at his words. With that, Vanadir continued, ¡°Anyways, let me ask you something. Do you know the 12 princes of the Seraph Kingdom?¡±

    Erea shook her head as she let out a soft sigh. She then said to him, ¡°I apologize for not knowing too much in this area. I¡¯m not someone who likes to dabble in the world of politics¡­plus I always seclude myself within the Arcana Tower¡­¡±

    ¡°Hahaha.¡± Hearing her response filled with truths, Vanadir could not help but lightly giggle as he replied, ¡°It¡¯s fine. It¡¯s fine. I just wanted to know if you have any background knowledge.¡±

    ¡°Anyways, the 12 princes of the Seraph Kingdom have only one purpose in life,¡± he said. ¡°That purpose is to seed the current king of the kingdom, King Zeldrion Seraph.¡±

    ¡°As you¡¯ve heard from Dane, I¡¯m the Ninth Prince of the Seraph Kingdom,¡± he continued. ¡°As for Prince Sauro, he¡¯s the Tenth Prince of the Seraph Kingdom.¡±

    ¡°His full name is Sauro Altaris-Seraph, his mother being someone who has high prestige in the Altaris n,¡± Vanadir started to exin. ¡°He¡¯s well-known for making back-up ns for his back-up ns. In other words, he¡¯s a pretty scheming guy. Not to mention, he¡¯s also well-versed in the arts of swordsmanship.¡±

    ¡°Then again, all of the princes are,¡± Vanadir said before chuckling. He then looked at Erea and asked her, ¡°Did that answer your first question?¡±

    In response, Erea nodded. Seeing that she nodded, Vanadir nodded back before continuing, ¡°As for the prize in the war for the throne¡­¡±

    ¡°Well, to be honest, this is the first time such an event has been held,¡± the Ninth Prince said after that. ¡°Fortunately, the king did not hide anything from us, telling us the rewards of such an event.¡±

    ¡°Naturally, bing the future ruler of the kingdom is part of the rewards, with the winning prince bing a Crown Prince,¡± Vanadir said. He then took in a deep breath as his eyes glistened, remembering the other reward.

    ¡°The most important reward in this war for the throne is probably the only reward the other princes participating in this event yearn to obtain,¡± he said with a slightly excited expression.

    ¡°A Legendary-grade weapon,¡± Vanadir said without hesitation, making Erea and Dane¡¯s eyes widen in response. This was the first time Dane had heard of it, while Erea could not even fathom the power a Legendary-grade weapon would have.

    Seeing their reactions, Vanadir let out augh as he said, ¡°That was my reaction as well when I first heard it from the king. Any other questions?¡±

    Erea shook his head in response to his question. With that, Vanadir turned his head to look at Dane and ask, ¡°Do you have any other news you want to tell me?¡±

    With a nod, Dane let out a long sigh before telling him, ¡°Unfortunately, yes.¡±

    ¡°Not only is the Tenth Prince participating in the war for the throne, but I¡¯ve also heard that the Tenth Prince has be allies with the Third Prince,¡± he continued.

    Rather than stand up from the sheer shock, Vanadir nkly looked at the outside of the pavilion before taking in a long and deep breath. As he let out a sigh, he let out a wry chuckle before muttering, ¡°At this point, I¡¯m not even surprised. With the Third Prince and Tenth Prince working together, it¡¯s almost guaranteed for them to win the war.¡±

    Noticing that Erea was about to ask a question from the periphery of his vision, the Ninth Prince went ahead and deduced the possible question in her mind as he asked her, ¡°Are you going to ask me the reason as to why I haven¡¯t allied with other princes yet?¡±

    Just as Erea was about to open her mouth to ask the question that came out of Vanadir¡¯s mouth, she instantly closed it as she nodded slowly soon after. In response, Vanadir let out a sigh as he said, ¡°Well, it¡¯s not that I don¡¯t want to. It¡¯s just that the other princes don¡¯t believe that I have the capabilities to win the war.¡±

    ¡°Your Highness doesn¡¯t have the capabilities?¡± Erea could not help but mutter, remembering what she saw before she entered the pavilion a while ago. From the aura the Ninth Prince was radiating while he was practicing with his de, to Erea, she concluded that he already had the capabilities to do so. ¡°You must be jesting, Your Highness. The power you showed before I entered the pavilion is already quite strong.¡±

    At first, Vanadir was at a loss for words, wondering how such a person he had just met for the first time would be able to say that. Not long after, Vanadir let out a longugh before softly sighing. He then looked at Erea before saying, ¡°I guess you¡¯re right. I¡¯ve only ascended to a Rank 3 ss just recently, so the news of me having ascended hasn¡¯t spread that much yet. Once it does, some of the princes would probably ask me to ally with them.¡±

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡± Listening to Vanadir¡¯s words, Erea pondered for a bit before asking, ¡°Wouldn¡¯t it be better if the news doesn¡¯t spread until the veryst moment, Your Highness?¡±

    ¡°Of course it is, but you know how it is. News like this can¡¯t be kept secret for long,¡± Vanadir said, to which Dane let out a chuckle as he replied, ¡°That¡¯s only if you don¡¯t have any connections with those that spread the news, Your Highness.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯ve given me quite a great idea, Erea,¡± Dane said as he stood up, patting Erea on the head. Sipping a bit of tea from the cup he¡¯s holding, he looked at the Ninth Prince and said, ¡°Fortunately for you, Your Highness, I have quite a few connections with the main sources of news in this kingdom. As long as I bribe them with a bit of the money you¡¯ve given me, they¡¯ll make sure to keep the news of your ascension a secret.¡±

    ¡°As for the alliances¡­¡± Dane pondered for a bit before saying, ¡°You should take the initiative to show your strength to the other princes, Your Highness. Of course, the Highness should only do it in secret, lest the other princes find out. Wouldn¡¯t that shock the masses once they find out that you¡¯re far stronger than they imagined when the war for the throne starts?¡±

    Vanadir passively listened to Dane¡¯s advice before pondering over it. After some time, he let out a longugh as he said, ¡°As expected from my advisor, you¡¯re a genius.¡±

    He then turned his head to look at Erea and said, ¡°The same goes for you, Erea. If not for your quick thinking, Dane might not have such a thought like this.¡±

    Being praised by the Ninth Prince himself, Erea scratched her head slightly as a light blush suffused from her face. In her mind, she thought to herself, ¡®To think that the Ninth Prince actually knows my name¡­¡¯

    After talking a bit more regarding the new idea Dane had, Vanadir eventually looked at Erea and asked her, ¡°Do you have any other questions you want to ask me?¡±

    ¡°Do I?¡± Erea asked herself in response, rummaging through her memories in the process. Eventually, she recalled what happened before they arrived at the pavilion. With that in mind, she went ahead and asked the Ninth Prince, ¡°I do have one question.¡±

    ¡°Do tell,¡± Vanadir said in response. Erea then took in a deep breath as she pondered whether it was right or wrong to ask such a question. Eventually, she decided that it was better to find it out as she asked, ¡°Before we arrived at your pavilion, Your Highness, no guards were escorting us along the way. Is there a reason for that?¡±

    Hearing Erea¡¯s question, Dane could not help but let out a light chuckle as he muttered, ¡°I knew she was going to ask this question.¡±

    As for Vanadir, he let out a light chuckle as well as he said, ¡°Oh that? Quite a simple answer to your question, to be honest.¡±

    ¡°I guess Dane didn¡¯t tell you the reason why along the way?¡± he asked, to which Erea nodded.

    Looking at Dane for a bit with a smile, he then shifted his gaze back to Erea as he replied, ¡°Well, I don¡¯t me your teacher for not telling you¡­¡±

    ¡°¡­since it involves the war for the throne, surprisingly.¡±

 Chapter 249: Clearing Doubts

    Chapter 249: Clearing Doubts

    ¡°Eh?¡± Erea raised her eyebrows in confusion. Even something simple like an escorting of guests to where the prince was had something to do with the war for the throne? With that in mind, she then asked the Ninth Prince, ¡°How does it have something to do with the war for the throne, Your Highness?¡±

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡± Vanadir pondered over the right words to say, making sure that his exnation would be easy for someone like Erea to get. Eventually, he opened his mouth and asked her in response, ¡°Remember what I said earlier regarding the winning conditions in the war for the throne?¡±

    ¡°The war for the throne is apetition wherein only one team survives¡­¡± Erea said as a reply to his question. After a few seconds, she went silent, pondering over the statement she had said. It took only a few more seconds for her to realize why the Ninth Prince was asking her the winning condition in the war for the throne, reading between the lines. Nevertheless, she was still unsure as to whether the conclusion she came to was right or not.

    Either way, she still summoned up her courage as she took in a deep breath before asking in a tone of slight uncertainty, ¡°Your Highness, do you mean that¡­the rule also applies before the war for the throne has even begun.¡±

    In response, Vanadir slowly nodded his head. Erea¡¯splexion slightly paled from the nod, thinking about the sheer cruelty of such a mechanic. Before she could ask why this rule was set in ce, the Ninth Prince opened his mouth and told her, ¡°Unlike the start of the event, where only the princes that volunteered to participate in the war for the throne are the ones going to be killed, all of the princes are targets for killing.¡±

    Listening to Vanadir¡¯s words, she finally obtained the answer to one of her questions earlier, which had something to do with the situation wherein a malevolent prince decides to not join in the war for the throne.

    ¡®So this rule was made for that reason¡­probably,¡¯ Erea thought to herself, thinking that this was just one of the reasons why it was being done.

    ¡°The royal family is a neutral party for the most part,¡± Vanadir continued with his exnation. ¡°Of course, that only applies to the core of the royal family. The princes, knights, and other parties that are rted to the royal family can opt to take on sides.¡±

    ¡°As you can see, only a scant few have decided to join my side, with your mentor being the greatest example,¡± the Ninth Prince said, pointing towards Dane, who was standing. In response, Dane let out a chuckle before looking at Erea. With Erea¡¯s attention now fixated at him, he opened his mouth and said, ¡°Since you¡¯ve asked that question, there¡¯s no point in hiding anything from you anymore.¡±

    He then let out a soft sigh before continuing, ¡°Most of the guards that guard the gates of the pce have decided to support the Third Prince in this war for the throne. He also has quite a lot of people from the Arcana Tower that have opted to support him in the war.¡±

    ¡°As for the remaining princes, the amount of support they have is nothing inparison,¡± Dane said as he shrugged his shoulders, letting out an aura that said ¡®There¡¯s nothing we can do about it¡¯. ¡°I¡¯m pretty sure that you¡¯re asking yourself, ¡®Why is the king not meddling in this situation? Shouldn¡¯t he treat his sons fairly?''¡±

    Taking a short breather, he looked at Vanadir for a bit and said, ¡°ording to the Ninth Prince in front of us, he thinks that the reason the king is not meddling with this great disparity of support is that this part is also a test to see who has the greater ability when ites to diplomatic rtions and rtions in general.¡±

    ¡°Then again, the king hasn¡¯t confirmed this, so even His Highness is not sure,¡± Dane told Erea as a conclusion.

    After Dane was finished exining the situation to Erea, the young mage processed all of her mentor¡¯s words in her mind. She eventually understood everything that was said to her as she let out a sigh.

    ¡°Have any princes been killed before the war for the throne has even started?¡± She then focused her vision towards Vanadir and asked this question. With a sigh of slight mncholy, the Ninth Prince nodded and said, ¡°Unfortunately, yes. In fact, three out of the twelve princes in this kingdom have already been killed.¡±

    Hearing that not only one, but three princes have been killed even before the war for the throne has started made Erea let out a gasp of horror. She could not fathom how one could be so cruel to those that have the same blood. But the words said by Vanadir after that made her realize that they were crueler than that.

    ¡°Actually, I was almost killed as well,¡± Vanadir said a few secondster, letting out a wry chuckle. ¡°Fortunately, Dane was there while I had already ascended to a Rank 3 ss. Add on the fact that it was a Void Assassin targeting me, who are at their strongest only at the first attack, I was definitely lucky.¡±

    In response to the Ninth Prince¡¯s words, Erea could not help but let out a long sigh, thinking that this current situation would not have happened if the Ninth Prince was killed back then. Composing herself by taking in a few soft breaths, she then asked the Ninth Prince, ¡°Might I ask Your Highness who among the twelve princes have been killed? If possible, could I also know who killed them?¡±

    ¡°Er¡­¡± Scratching his head as he pondered, Vanadir eventually let out an awkward chuckle as he said, ¡°To be honest, I don¡¯t know who killed them. I only know the princes that were killed.¡±

    ¡°The Second Prince, Juris Seraph,¡± he then started to enumerate the princes that were killed.

    ¡°The Fifth Prince, Syco Phante Seraph. No, wait¡­that was his nickname from back then. His real name was Marcus Excerial-Seraph.¡±

    ¡°And the Twelfth Prince, Ortelion Causis-Seraph.¡±

    ¡°Why do you want to know who among the twelve princes were killed, Erea?¡± Vanadir asked soon after, to which Erea let out an awkward chuckle as she responded, ¡°Ahaha. It just made me realize that I need to know more about the twelve princes of the Seraph Kingdom, Your Highness.¡±

    ¡°I see.¡± Vanadir nodded in understanding. ¡°It would be beneficial for you to know more about them since we¡¯re going to face them in the war for the throne. It will also allow you to be wary of your opponents before the war for the throne even starts.¡±

    ¡°That was what I had in mind, Your Highness,¡± Erea said as she nodded to his words. After that, she pondered over something for a bit before asking the Ninth Prince, ¡°Now that I think about it, Your Highness, who are the other members of your team? I know I¡¯m a part of it since I was invited by Teacher, but who else are there?¡±

    ¡°Uh¡­¡± Vanadir scratched his head as he hemmed and hawed. He then looked at Dane for a bit, to which Dane shrugged his shoulders in response. This non-verbal response did not go unnoticed by the young mage, looking at her mentor before looking at the Ninth Prince sitting opposite her. Taking a slight sip of the tea she had, she then asked both of them, ¡°From what I¡¯m seeing, it seems that Your Highness¡­doesn¡¯t have any other members yet other than me?¡±

    In response, the Ninth Prince let out an awkward chuckle as he asked her, ¡°Was my bodynguage that obvious?¡±

    He then chuckled for a few more seconds before letting out a low sigh. Looking at her directly in the eyes, he then said with a sincere tone, ¡°Due to the huge amount of support the Third Prince gets, only he has a full team of members for the war for the throne. Mind you, the maximum number of members a team could have is 10, with the prince included in this number.¡±

    ¡°The one with the second-highest number of members in their team so far is the Fourth Prince, already having 6 members in his team,¡± he added. ¡°As for my team, there are only 3 members.¡±

    ¡°You¡­¡± He pointed at Erea as he said this.

    ¡°Me¡­¡± He then pointed at himself before pointing it towards a person Erea did not expect to be a part of the team as well.

    ¡°And your mentor, Dane.¡±

    ¡°Surprising, isn¡¯t it, Erea?¡± Dane asked his student, to which he let out a light chuckle. As for Erea, from the show of power her mentor did a while ago lingering in her mind, it could be said that with him around, it would be simple for the Ninth Prince to win.With that in mind, she asked the Ninth Prince, ¡°Might I ask what the minimum and maximum requirements for someone to be a part of a prince¡¯s team?¡±

    ¡°A holder of a Rank 1 ss is the minimum, and a holder of a Rank 4 ss is the maximum,¡± Vanadir unhesitatingly replied. He then pondered over something for a bit before looking at Dane. He then asked him, ¡°Speaking of which, did you ask that Elder if he could spare some Executives or Low Executives to fill in the remaining numbers?¡±

    Dane nodded as he replied, ¡°Indeed, I have, Your Highness. I told it through one of his executives. That executive said that he was not sure whether or not the Elder would spare some Executives to help you out, but he told me that he was going to try his best to send a few Battle Mages or Supreme Battle Mages to help us out.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s quite reassuring to hear,¡± Vanadir said as he let out a light smile. Just as he was about to ask Erea whether she had any more questions to ask him, he recalled two certain people that would help his team turn the tides once the war for the thronees. With that in mind, he then told Dane, ¡°Oh, and also, remind me that in about a couple of weeks, we¡¯re going to head to the Astelia and Arcenon family.¡±

    At first, Dane tilted his head in slight confusion, wondering why His Highness would go to those high-ranking ns all of a sudden. It did not take long for the prince¡¯s words to click in his mind, letting out a light smile as he responded, ¡°As you wish, Your Highness.¡±

    ¡°Eh?¡± As for Erea, since she was just newly invited to the team, she did not know what was going on. But before she could ask either her mentor or the Ninth Prince regarding this, the Ninth Prince looked at her and told her, ¡°It¡¯s better for you to not know for now.¡±

    With that said, Erea could only nod in response to his words.

    ¡°Do you have any other questions you want to ask me?¡± Vanadir asked her after she nodded, to which Erea unhesitatingly replied, ¡°Now that I think about it, when does the war for the throne start, Your Highness?¡±

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡± The Ninth Prince tried to recall the exact date when it would start, before going ahead and calcting the remaining time before the exact datees. After a few seconds, he then told her, ¡°In about half a year or so. I¡¯m pretty sure the king wouldn¡¯t hold on the first day of the new year, though.¡±

    ¡°I understand,¡± Erea said as she nodded in understanding.

    ¡°Are there any other questions you want to ask me?¡± Vanadir asked once more. This time, Erea shook her head as she said, ¡°I have no more questions to ask the Highness. I am incredibly satisfied.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m d to hear that,¡± the Ninth Prince said as he let out a slight snicker.

    He then turned his head towards Dane and asked him, ¡°How about you, Dane? Do you have any questions you want to ask me?¡±

    ¡°Nothing reallyes to mind, Your Highness,¡± Dane said in response to his question. ¡°I pretty much came here just to apany my student.¡±

    ¡°So¡­does that mean you two are leaving?¡± Vanadir asked Dane, to which Dane looked at his student in response. With Erea nodding to the question, Dane responded to Vanadir and uttered, ¡°That would be a yes, Your Highness.¡±

    ¡°I see.¡± Vanadir lightly smiled as he emptied his cup of tea before cing it on the table in front of him. He then stood up and said to the two of them, ¡°Let me apany you outside the pavilion. I¡¯ll be continuing my training after you two leave anyway.¡±

    ¡­

    Eventually, the three of them were not outside the pavilion, with Vanadir unsheathing the de he was using a while ago from his right waist soon after. Looking at Dane and Erea in front of him, he gripped the de tightly before saying, ¡°Make sure you two work hard to improve yourbat power.¡±

    ¡°Especially you, Erea,¡± Vanadir said in addition as he looked at Erea. He then continued, ¡°ording to your mentor, you¡¯ve ascended to a pretty superb ss. I want to see its power in action once the war for the throne starts, okay?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll do my best, Your Highness,¡± Erea responded to Vanadir with a light grin. At this moment, she held no fear towards the Ninth Prince anymore as they were now acquainted.

    ¡°Make sure to meet me in a couple of weeks okay, Dane?¡± Vanadir then focused his attention towards Dane, to which Dane let out a giggle as he replied, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Your Highness. I¡¯lle a few hours early just to make you be at ease.¡±

    The three of them then said their words of farewell, with Dane and Erea gradually making their way towards the gates of the pce. As for Vanadir, he looked at the fleeting silhouettes of the two for a bit before brandishing his de with great gusto.

    While he was doing so, he could not help but mutter to himself, ¡°I wonder what kind of team I could create before the war for the throne starts?¡±

    He then chuckled.

    ¡°I¡¯m getting somewhat excited for that time.¡±

 Chapter 250: Crossroads

    Chapter 250: Crossroads

    In a deeper portion of the Grand Blue Inheritance.

    The Grand Blue Master looked intently at the screen in front of him, with Argentum and the Earth-based Pseudo-Animate he had summoned for this trial on it. The two of them looked at each other from opposite ends of the arena, with Argentum activating all of the status boosting skills and spells he had that was inclined towards the Water element. Noticing that Argentum followed his instructions to a T, the Grand Blue Master could not help but lightly nod in slight satisfaction, muttering to himself, ¡°Eleanor has truly picked a good student to teach. Greatprehension rate, greatbat power, and even obedience when ites to orders.¡±

    He then let out a light snicker soon after as he said, ¡°Unfortunately for you, Argentum, this is where you shall find your true limits.¡±

    ¡°Surely, you wouldn¡¯t be able to defeat a Pseudo-Animate one grade higher than you, plus with someone who has an elemental advantage against you, with skills at an elemental disadvantage, right?¡± the Grand Blue Master muttered to himself with a slightly expectant tone. Throughout the tens of thousands of years that he had lived so far, he only met a few Pseudo-Animates that were able to beat those with an elemental advantage against them in the same grade. He had never heard of a Pseudo-Animate that not only beat those with an elemental advantage against them, but were also of a higher grade than them.

    As he muttered this to himself, two thoughts lingered in his mind. The first one was a thought regarding him being slightly envious over Argentum¡¯s performance. He could not help but take out his anger on him for a bit, letting him undergo a trial that could be said to be nigh impossible to clear unless one was a true genius.

    The second thought, on the other hand, was quite the opposite. Although he knew that he made the trial to take out a bit of his anger on Argentum, he also made that trial to see where Argentum¡¯s limits were. He was also somewhat expecting Argentum to break through his limits and defeat a Pseudo-Animate of a higher grade with a great disadvantage.

    Eventually, after he was finished mulling over his thoughts, he finally announced the start of the third trial. Soon after that, the two started brandishing their skills and spells towards one another in a cutthroat manner. At first, the Earth-based Pseudo-Animate he had summoned was the one with the advantage, forcing Argentum to dodge every attack thrown at him.

    Looking at the current scenario, the Grand Blue Master¡¯s expectations slightly became lower as he let out a soft sigh. Concurrently, he also felt a bit of happiness seeing such a genius Pseudo-Animate being beaten up. Fortunately, this happiness onlysted for a short bit as he felt a bit of remorse for what he had done. Scratching his head in contemtion, he asked himself, ¡°Should I stop the trial? I did tell him that this trial was just for the sake of keeping up a few formalities.¡±

    Just as he was about to decide on doing so, he noticed that something peculiar was happening on the screen. After a while, this peculiarity made the Grand Blue Master slightly surprised, then excited as he could not believe what was happening. At this moment, it dawned on him that even though the Earth-based Pseudo-Animate looked like it was the one with the advantage¡­in actuality, Argentum seemed to be the one with the advantage!

    Through the screen, he could vividly see that Argentum was sent flying with the Earth-based Pseudo-Animate¡¯s attack. Unfortunately for the Earth-based Pseudo-Animate, the result was that Argentum was left unscathed from that attack, allowing the distance to widen between the two of them as he started to mutter a few incantations that were unintelligible to the Earth-based Pseudo-Animate.

    Infusing a bit more energy to the screen to enhance the volume of Argentum¡¯s voice, the Grand Blue Master was slightly stupefied as he realized what Argentum was muttering. With a tone of slight stupefaction, he muttered to himself, ¡°He actually bought the ultimate art from the shop screen? At his current level, he has already met the requirements to use one?¡±

    ording to the Grand Blue Master¡¯s memories, ultimate arts were skills that showed a level ofbat power far beyond what a being is normally capable of, allowing them to surmount the gap of power between the being and its enemy and fight on a level ying field. Of course, there were a lot of caveats when it came to using ultimate arts.

    First, all ultimate arts needed the being to have an immensely high level of affinity towards the element the ultimate art was using. Second, the being needed to have a body capable of withstanding the bacsh brought by the usage of the ultimate skill. In other words, a high Vitality or Defense stat was needed to use an ultimate art. Andstly, one must have an enormous amount of energy to utilize ultimate arts to their full potential.

    While he was still suspicious of Argentum¡¯s abilities regarding the utilization of ultimate arts, the Earth-based Pseudo-Animate noticed that it felt an ominous feeling from Argentum, prompting it to attack him with the strongest move it could muster.

    Unfortunately for the Earth-based Pseudo-Animate once again, Argentum was already finished muttering the incantations for the ultimate art, allowing him to slice the attack the Earth-based Pseudo-Animate into two with just one move. Seeing the move Argentum utilized, the Grand Blue Master was left speechless.

    Concurrent to the Grand Blue Master¡¯s speechlessness, Argentum decreased the gap between him and the Earth-based Pseudo-Animate through the usage of the ultimate art, even though the Earth-based Pseudo-Animate frantically attacked to widen the gap between them, but to no avail.

    Eventually, the gap between them was near non-existent, allowing Argentum to cripple the Earth-based Pseudo-Animate by hacking off its limbs. It was also around this time that the Grand Blue Master snapped back to reality, announcing Argentum¡¯s victory over the third trial he had given him.

    ¡°Haah.¡± After announcing Argentum¡¯s victory, the Grand Blue Master could not help but lean on his chair as he let out a long sigh. This sigh was filled with multiple emotions, with the most prominent emotion being awe. He then pondered over something for a bit, letting out a chuckle a few secondster as he muttered, ¡°Argentum truly is a genius Pseudo-Animate. Who knows how strong he¡¯ll be in the future.¡±

    ¡°Now that I think about it, there might even be the possibility that he could even stand on the same level of power as me and Eleanor in the future,¡± he continued to mutter, thinking that it was not impossible with the prowess Argentum had shown in the third trial, even with a great disadvantage.

    ¡°Anyways, I should think about the reward I¡¯ll give him for clearing this trial,¡± the Grand Blue Master said to himself as he changed his train of thought. ¡°Even though this trial is for the sake of keeping up formalities, Argentum has already done his part to keep it up, so I¡¯ll keep my part as well.¡±

    ¡°The question is¡­what reward would fit Argentum?¡± he asked himself, mulling over it for about half a minute or so. After a while, he noticed that he had not told Argentum what was toe after the third trial. Add on the fact that he did not decide on a reward to give him yet, the Grand Blue Master decided to just keep Argentum in a facade for now, making him think that the trials were not over.

    ¡­

    Whoosh!

    After a few seconds of looking at each other, the crippled Earth-based Pseudo-Animate disappeared from Argentum¡¯s field of vision, allowing him to finally let out a sigh of relief as he disabled all of his skills and spells.

    ¡°Ultimate arts are really great,¡± Argentum said to himself as he sat down on the ground, slightly shivering from the cold at first. ¡°I think I should focus more of my time on the ultimate art I got. Even at the Artisan level of mastery, the power it outputs is already equivalent to [Viridescent Zephyr st].¡±

    ¡°Imagine if I used it in tandem with all of my status boosting skills, how monstrous would my level of damage reach by then?¡± Argentum muttered,ughing from the thought he just had.

    ¡°Speaking of which, shouldn¡¯t the Grand Blue Master be announcing my rewards around this time?¡± he asked himself, wondering what was taking the Grand Blue Master so long. He pondered over it for a bit, thinking over the Grand Blue Master¡¯s words from before.

    ¡°Well, he did say that this trial was to keep up a few formalities, so perhaps I might not get a reward from this trial,¡± he muttered to himself as his thoughts converged to form a conclusion. ¡°Then again, there¡¯s still a chance that that won¡¯t be the case.¡±

    Eventually, after a minute or so of waiting, the Grand Blue Master¡¯s voice resounded throughout therge room he was in. After listening to what he had to say, Argentum was left at a loss for words.

    ¡°Congrattions for clearing the third trial, Argentum,¡± the Grand Blue Master said to him. ¡°Your reward for this trial shall be dyed by three hours or so. For now, use the three hours I¡¯ve given you in whatever way you want to.¡±

    After saying those words, the Grand Blue Master¡¯s voice did not resound throughout the room anymore, leaving Argentum alone once again. Standing up, Argentum scratched his head as he processed the words the Grand Blue Master told him. A thought soon surfaced in his mind, making him think that the Grand Blue Master was probably going to do some gimmick with his rewards.

    ¡°Ah, well,¡± Argentum said to himself as he shrugged his shoulders. He then took in a deep breath before saying to himself, ¡°I don¡¯t know if there¡¯s another trial after this one, but better to be safe than sorry.¡±

    And with that, Argentum started to grind all of his skills. Surprisingly, he still focused on the Water-based skills he had received, with most of his attention focused on the [Azure Wave Art].

    ¡°I should probably ask Eleanor for an ultimate art of the Fire element.¡±

    ¡°Who knows if what I have in mind would also apply to ultimate arts.¡±

    ¡­

    In a deeper portion of the Grand Blue Inheritance.

    Whoosh!

    After telling Argentum what he had to do for the next three hours or so, the Grand Blue Master unhesitatingly conjured arge ball of energy. He then sent it flying towards a certain direction. Around a minute or soter, a ball of energy the same size he sent prated through the inheritance¡¯s walls and arrived at his room, prompting him to infuse his energy into the ball.

    ¡°What is it this time, Grand Blue Master?¡± After infusing his energy into the ball, Eleanor¡¯s voice could be heard resounding in his mind, initiating a conversation with him. ¡°Are you going to ask me for money? If so, I won¡¯t let you borrow any.¡±

    In response, the Grand Blue Master let out a sigh as he responded, ¡°Why do you always think I¡¯m going to ask you for money? Haah¡­forget it. I called you to talk with you regarding Argentum again.¡±

    ¡°Oh?¡± Eleanor said in a tone of curiosity. She then made a few hemming and hawing sounds after that before asking him, ¡°Now that I think about it, you told me some time ago that you had increased the difficulty of the third trial my student was undergoing. How did he fare?¡±

    ¡°Surprisingly, he exceeded my expectations and cleared the third trial without a problem,¡± the Grand Blue Master replied to her question with a tone of slight awe. ¡°Do note that I¡¯ve only limited him to Water-based skills, plus his opponent was an Earth-based Pseudo-Animate of the Magic grade.¡±

    ¡°Even with those restrictions, he was able to defeat the Earth-based Pseudo-Animate,¡± he added soon after.

    ¡°What the heck?!¡± Eleanor could not help but shout from sheer shock. She thought that Argentum would barely win the third trial in her expectations, but never did she think that he would be able to clear it without a problem. ¡°Argentum¡¯s too amazing!¡±

    Realizing that she made a slip of the tongue, Eleanor imitated the sound of one clearing their throat as her train of thought shifted towards the restrictions the Grand Blue Master gave Argentum. ¡°Anyways, that¡¯s quite a harsh restriction you¡¯ve imposed on Argentum.¡±

    ¡°I know. I¡¯m feeling some remorse from doing it, to be honest,¡± the Grand Blue Master said in response, letting out a wry chuckle. ¡°I told him that the third trial was a trial for the sake of keeping up formalities, but my mind is conflicted whether or not to end the trials here and give him a giant reward¡­¡±

    ¡°¡­or continue with the trial and give him an even greater reward.¡±

    ¡°In my mind, he has already kept his side of the deal, so it¡¯s time for me to keep my side,¡± he added, his tone taking on the hints of a slight rant. Eventually, he let out a long sigh, apologizing to Eleanor soon after regarding him going off on a slight tangent, to which Eleanor forgave him.

    ¡°So¡­in short, what do you want to tell me?¡± Eleanor asked him, to which the Grand Blue Master went silent for a bit. After a few seconds, he opened his mouth and said, ¡°As his teacher, should I go ahead and reward him right now, or let trudge through another trial and enhance his rewards even further?¡±

    Surprisingly, Eleanor already had an answer in mind as she listened to his question. Letting out a light giggle, Eleanor replied, ¡°I¡¯m not the one who decides on these things, Grand Blue Master. Remember that Argentum decided to go to the Grand Blue Inheritance on his own.¡±

    ¡°In other words, you should let Argentum make the choice.¡±

    ¡°¡­¡± The Grand Blue Master went silent after hearing Eleanor¡¯sst statement, pondering over it for a bit. After some time, he let out another wry chuckle as he said to Eleanor, ¡°Thanks, Eleanor. I think I know what I should do now.¡±

    ¡°No problem,¡± Eleanor said in a sweet tone. ¡°Don¡¯t you dare make Argentum go through that kind of hardship again, you hear me?¡±

    ¡°Hahaha. I won¡¯t,¡± the Grand Blue Master said in response before saying farewell to her. He then went ahead and cut off the connection between the two of them as an aura of conviction radiated from him.

    ¡°It¡¯s time for the real Grand Blue Master to appear once more.¡±

 Chapter 251: The Final Reward

    Chapter 251: The Final Reward

    Around two hours have passed since the Grand Blue Master told Argentum that he had three hours to do whatever he wanted. Argentum decided to use the three hours he had obtained to its fullest by grinding the skills he had. To be more specific, he opted to grind the Water-based skills he had obtained from the inheritance since he had a feeling that he would use it after the three hours were up.

    Ever since two out of the three hours allotted to him had passed, he made great strides in his Water-based skills, with the most prominent one being the [Azure Wave Art]. Due to the power it showed at the Artisan level already beingparable to the [Viridescent Zephyr st] from [Intermediate Tempest Magic++], this skill was the skill that he invested most of his time in. Not only did it evolve to the next grade due to the amount of time he had invested in it, but it went beyond that and evolved one more grade, taking on the name of [Great Sapphire Wave Art++]. He stopped grinding the skill after letting it reach the Basic level of mastery.

    After bing satisfied with the improvement of his [Azure Wave Art], he then went ahead and invested his time towards the more important skills he had obtained from the inheritance, which were [Lesser Azure Magic+] and [Great Blue Ascension+]. This time around, he became satisfied when [Lesser Azure Magic+] reached the Artisan level of mastery, seeing that [Azure Wave Art] now dealt even more damage at its current form. As for [Great Blue Ascension+], he stopped grinding the skill just when the skill was close to achieving the Master level. In other words, the skill was also at the Artisan level of mastery.

    As for [Azure Armor], which was raised to the Artisan level of mastery before the start of the third trial, he spent some time on improving it, allowing it to reach the Master level and evolve to the next grade, taking on the name of [Great Blue Armor+]. He then went ahead and improved it a bit further, bing satisfied when the skill had reached the Adept level of mastery. He felt that at this level, it wouldn¡¯t be a problem for him to defend against attacks at the Grand-grade Pseudo-Animate level as long as he had [Aqua Burst] activated.

    On the other hand, even though [Water Affinity] and [Water Resistance] were passive skills that he did not focus on grinding, they had unknowingly reached the next grade due to Argentum focusing on grinding his Water-based skills. It was only when Argentum got a notification from the system that these two passive skills reached the maximum level did he realize that they improved as well.

    Just as he decided that he was going to focus a bit more on [Lesser Azure Magic+], thinking about the effects of the improved [Aqua Burst] simultaneously, a familiar voice to Argentum resounded throughout the room, making him radiate an aura of surprise and confusion from it.

    ¡°Argentum, although only two hours have passed, your break is now over,¡± the voice said. Of course, this was none other than the Grand Blue Master¡¯s voice.

    Hearing those words, Argentum stopped what he was doing and stood up as he faced the ceiling. Scratching his head, he could not help but ask the Grand Blue Master, ¡°Why did you stop the three-hour break early? Did something urgent happen or something?¡±

    ¡°Nope, not at all,¡± the Grand Blue Master sinctly replied to his question. He then told him, ¡°Give me a second, Argentum. It¡¯s better for me to talk about it with you face-to-face.¡±

    After that, the Grand Blue Master¡¯s voice did not resound throughout the room anymore, leaving Argentum with a question in mind. With it in mind, he asked himself, ¡°What kind of topic would it be better for the Grand Blue Master to talk about face-to-face?¡±

    He then pondered over it for a bit, trying to imagine himself in the Grand Blue Master¡¯s ce. After half a minute or so, two conclusions came to his mind. The first conclusion was rted to the reward that he had not yet obtained from finishing the third trial, while the second conclusion was rted to the remaining trials of the inheritance as a whole.

    ¡°I wonder which one he¡¯ll talk about,¡± he muttered to himself soon after with a tone of slight expectation.

    Whoosh!

    Not long after, a corridor soon opened up on the room where he was, prompting Argentum to peek through the corridor. He was surprisingly greeted with the hovering body of a man made out of water, who let out a sigh of relief at the very instant it had arrived where Argentum was.

    ¡°It¡¯s been a while since I¡¯ve done something like this,¡± the man muttered as he let out a light chuckle. ¡°I should do this more often.¡±

    He then focused his sense of vision towards Argentum, who was looking at him with an aura of slight curiosity and confusion. Noticing this, the man took on a slightly mysterious tone as he headed to where Argentum was before saying, ¡°It¡¯s nice to meet you face-to-face, Argentum.¡±

    ¡°Ah.¡± Hearing his name being called by the man made out of the water, it did not take long for Argentum to greet him back with a bow. Taking on a slightly respectful tone, he then said, ¡°It is nice to meet you as well, Grand Blue Master.¡±

    In response, the Grand Blue Master nodded at his words before asking him, ¡°I presume you have an idea of what we¡¯re going to talk about?¡±

    Instead of replying that he did, Argentum decided to keep his conclusions to himself as he shook his head. Since he was not sure that these conclusions were correct, it was better for him to not say it at all.

    ¡°I, unfortunately, do not,¡± Argentum replied.

    ¡°I see,¡± the Grand Blue Master said before letting out a light giggle. ¡°While heading here, I had a feeling that you¡¯d be able to infer the conversation we¡¯re going to have with the things I¡¯ve said before your break started. I guess I was mistaken.¡±

    ¡°Anyways, what we¡¯re going to talk about is your reward,¡± he continued, which made Argentum¡¯s aura turn to that of expectation and excitement.

    Just as Argentum was going to ask about what reward he was going to get from the trial he had just finished, the Grand Blue Master interrupted him from doing so, saying, ¡°To be honest, I didn¡¯t expect myself to be doing this.¡±

    ¡°I thought that the inheritor that entered the inheritance this time was just like the others, but who knew that it would be the Undying me Spirit¡¯s heaven-defying student,¡± he continued, letting out a wry chuckle in the midst of it.

    ¡°I did tell you that the third trial was for the sake of keeping up a few formalities, right?¡± the Grand Blue Master asked Argentum. In response, Argentum nodded.

    ¡°Well, this reward is for the sake of keeping up formalities as well¡­¡± he said afterwards before adding, ¡°¡­and I guess, it¡¯s also considered as an apology for what I did to you in the third trial.¡±

    ¡°Apology?¡± Argentum did not expect to hear this worde from the Grand Blue Master. He thought about why the Grand Blue Master brought this word up, eventually asking back, ¡°Is it because I fought against the Earth-based Pseudo-Animate?¡±

    ¡°Yeah.¡± The Grand Blue Master nodded. ¡°You could say that I felt a bit jealous seeing how heaven-defying you are while you cleared all of my trials without a problem. Fortunately, I realized that I was not being impartial anymore, thus I came here to say sorry to you while I give you my reward.¡±

    ¡°Oh, and also, I¡¯m d you defeated that Pseudo-Animate without a problem,¡± he added as he spoke with a tone of gratitude.

    ¡°I see,¡± Argentum said in understanding. He then went ahead and asked the Grand Blue Master, ¡°So¡­what¡¯s my reward going to be?¡±

    ¡°Uh¡­¡± In response, the Grand Blue Master let out an awkward chuckle as he responded, ¡°Let me tell you what happened before I told you that your break was over.¡±

    ¡°Just as your three-hour break started, I went ahead and contacted your teacher, the Undying me Spirit,¡± he started to narrate the happenings from a couple of hours ago.

    ¡°I then went ahead and talked with her about what happened in the third trial,¡± he said before adding, ¡°Did you know that she was ecstatic to hear that you had cleared the third trial without a problem?¡±

    As he listened to this, Argentum could not help but think, ¡®Eh? We have a spirit contract binding the two of us, so she could just go ahead and ask me directly about it. Why did she go all through that just to hear about my progress?¡¯

    ¡®Unless she¡¯s just making sure that our rtionship as co-owners of the me Spirit Inheritance is not known by the Grand Blue Master?¡¯ Coming to this conclusion, Argentum could not help butugh inwardly. Then again, after thinking about it for a bit, he thought that Eleanor¡¯s decision did make sense since he did not know if the Grand Blue Master could intercept their conversation.

    ¡°Anyways, I then asked her regarding the reward you¡¯d get from clearing the third trial that I purposely made more difficult for you,¡± the Grand Blue Master continued with his narration. ¡°I gave her two choices. The choices were to either give you your reward right now or let you go through a fourth trial, but the quality of your reward would be enhanced.¡±

    Argentum pondered over the Grand Blue Master¡¯s words for a bit, remembering that he was taking on the facade of Eleanor¡¯s student. Just as the Grand Blue Master was about to continue, he interrupted him by asking, ¡°So¡­what did my teacher choose?¡±

    In response, the Grand Blue Master let out a short chortle as he replied with just one word.

    ¡°Neither.¡±

    ¡°Neither?¡± Argentum repeated the Grand Blue Master¡¯s words with a confused tone.

    ¡°Her response to my question was neither of those two choices,¡± the Grand Blue Master started to exin Eleanor¡¯s answer. ¡°She told me that it was not up to her to choose between the two, but instead, it was your choice to do so.¡±

    ¡°She also told me that it was of your own volition toe to this inheritance,¡± the Grand Blue Master added. ¡°Is that true?¡±

    Deciding that there was no use hiding this information, Argentum nodded as he replied, ¡°That would be correct, Grand Blue Master. Before bing Teacher¡¯s student, I¡¯ve decided to learn skills from the four foundational elements, knowing fully well that the goal I¡¯ve set for myself would be a hard one for me to achieve.¡±

    ¡°I see,¡± the Grand Blue Master said in response,mitting Argentum¡¯s answer into his mind. He thought that it was weird for a Wind-based Pseudo-Animate to learn skills from all of the foundational elements. He knew that there was a reason for it, but he could not seem to remember what it was.

    ¡°Anyways, with her telling me that you should be the one to choose, which choice are you going to pick?¡± he asked Argentum not long after. ¡°Are you going to grab your reward right now, or are you willing to trudge through a fourth trial, but the quality of your reward shall be increased?¡±

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡± Argentum pondered over the two choices for quite some time. From his perspective, the first reward would allow him to leave the inheritance early, which in turn would allow him to arrive at Verdant Breeze Town earlier than his expected time through the help of Blob. Then again, he remembered that there was still over three weeks until his original body would be finished evolving, allowing him to take his sweet time and continue onward with the fourth trial.

    ¡®Now that I think about it, the fourth trial would also be a trial for the sake of keeping up formalities,¡¯ Argentum thought to himself while pondering. ¡®He has already seen everything that I could do, so would there be any point in letting me undergo through what seems to be a fruitless trial?¡¯

    ¡®Not only that, but I also have a feeling that I¡¯ve already obtained the most precious reward from the inheritance. If my guess is correct, then that skill should be the most precious reward,¡¯ Argentum continued to mull over the two choices. Eventually, he came to a conclusion. With the conclusion in mind, he unhesitatingly focused his vision on the Grand Blue Master as he said, ¡°I choose the first choice.¡±

    ¡°Haah¡­thank the heavens,¡± the Grand Blue Master said as he let out a sigh of relief, which caught Argentum a bit off-guard. Seeing that Argentum was looking at him with an aura of confusion, he went ahead and exined his response, saying, ¡°To be honest, my mind is devoid of ideas for your next trial, so you¡¯d have to take another break for you to undergo through your fourth trial.¡±

    ¡°Not only that, but you¡¯ve also taken the most precious reward from this inheritance already,¡± he continued to exin. ¡°The [Azure Wave Art] is a skill I¡¯ve created and perfected throughout my 26,000 years of living. Of course, I¡¯ve only given you the most basic version of the skill. Once your understanding of it reaches the peak, I¡¯m sure that you¡¯lle back here and ask if the skill bes more powerful than that.¡±

    ¡°As expected,¡± Argentum muttered to himself softly, letting out an inward chuckle as he found out that his thoughts were correct.

    ¡°In other words, I have no reward left that¡¯s more precious than the [Azure Wave Art],¡± the Grand Master said after that. ¡°Instead, I¡¯ve decided that your reward shall be any single item from this inheritance. As long as it¡¯s inside my inheritance, I¡¯ll give it to you without hesitation.¡±

    Hearing those words, a thought instantly surfaced in his mind as his memories of what happened in the me Spirit Inheritance surfaced as well. Although he had a feeling that it wouldn¡¯t be easy to obtain it from the Grand Blue Master, the improvement it would give him would surely be a lot.

    Taking in a deep breath, Argentum told the Grand Blue Master, ¡°I¡¯ve decided on what I want as my reward.¡±

    ¡°Oh?¡± The Grand Blue Master was slightly surprised that Argentum had already made his decision. ¡°What reward would you like from the inheritance?¡±

    ¡°I would like¡­¡± Argentum opened his mouth to reply to the Grand Blue Master¡¯s question.

    ¡°¡­to be a partial owner of the Grand Blue Inheritance.¡±

    ¡°¡­¡±

    ¡°¡­¡±

    ¡°¡­huh?¡±

 Chapter 252: A Sudden Request

    Chapter 252: A Sudden Request

    ¡°Huh?¡± the Grand Blue Master uttered as he heard Argentum¡¯s response. Thinking that he had heard wrongly, he went ahead and vigorously shook his head to and fro. To Argentum, who saw the Grand Blue Master doing this all of a sudden, he could not help but mutter to himself, ¡°Why is he doing that?¡±

    Fortunately, the Grand Blue Master stopped shaking his head after a few seconds, his sense of vision locking onto Argentum¡¯s soon after. He then imitated the sound of a being clearing the throat after that to reduce the awkward atmosphere between them as he asked Argentum, ¡°Could you repeat what you said earlier? Regarding the reward you want from the inheritance? I think I might have misheard you.¡±

    Without hesitation, Argentum said the same words he uttered a while ago, telling the Grand Blue Master in a slightly questioning tone, ¡°I would like to be a partial owner of the Grand Blue Inheritance?¡±

    Cough! Cough! Cough!

    Realizing that he had not heard wrongly, the Grand Blue Master imitated the sound of a being having a coughing fit, startling Argentum yet again. At this moment, Argentum could not help but think that the Grand Blue Master could either be sick or on the verge of losing his mind. Either way, he was still the one who would give him his reward, so he decided to not tell the Grand Blue Master what he was thinking about.

    Eventually, the Grand Blue Master stopped imitating the sound of someone having a coughing fit, letting out a sigh afterward as he pondered over the reasons why Argentum would request such a reward from him. Not getting to a conclusion even after mulling over it for quite some time, the Grand Blue Master focused his sense of vision back at Argentum once more as he asked him in a calm tone, ¡°Could you tell me the reason why you chose that as your reward, Argentum?¡±

    ¡°Grand Blue Master, you did tell me that as long as it¡¯s within your inheritance, I could ask for it as a reward, right?¡± Argentum uttered in response to his question. He then added, ¡°Is the great Grand Blue Master reneging on his words from a while ago?¡±

    ¡°No, no, no,¡± the Grand Blue Master hastily said in response to Argentum¡¯s question, letting out a wry chuckle soon after. ¡°I¡¯m just curious, that¡¯s all. Just curious.¡±

    ¡°But seriously though, what made you choose bing a partial owner of my inheritance as a reward?¡± he added not long after that, which made Argentum ponder over the answer he was going to tell him.

    Naturally, Argentum wouldn¡¯t tell the Grand Blue Master that he had already be a partial owner of the me Spirit Inheritance. Telling him about Aurus¡¯s memories of owning inheritances would be a no as well for him. Thankfully, it did not take long for a believable answer to surface in his mind, using Eleanor as his scapegoat on how he knew about partial ownership and stuff.

    ¡®I¡¯ll surely make it up to you in the future, Eleanor,¡¯ Argentum thought inwardly as he took in a deep breath. He then faced the Grand Blue Master as he replied, ¡°Teacher told me back then that the reason why she was incredibly powerful had something to do with owning an inheritance.¡±

    ¡°Of course, I was curious back then as to how owning an inheritance would give someone immense amounts of power, to which Teacher unhesitatingly exined the ins and outs of an inheritance, as well as the benefits of bing an owner, and even a partial owner, of an inheritance,¡± he continued.

    ¡°Teacher¡¯s words just urred to me while you were asking me as to what reward I should choose,¡± he added after that. ¡°I wonder if my answer satisfies the Grand Blue Master¡¯s curiosity?¡±

    ¡°I see¡­¡± the Grand Blue Master slowly said, wondering why Eleanor would tell her student something like that. As he thought about it, he could not help but think, ¡®Is she trying to reduce my power so she could finally win when we meet again?¡¯

    While thinking about it, he could not help but imagine the arrogant chortles of Eleanor winning against him in a fight. Just as he was about to be more furious at Eleanor, deciding to direct some of his anger once more onto Argentum, he took in a deep breath and calmed himself down, realizing what a big mistake killing her student would be.

    Letting out a long sigh filled with slight mncholy, the Grand Blue Master said to Argentum in a slightly disinterested tone, ¡°Alright, then. You want to be a partial owner of my inheritance, right? I¡¯ll grant you your wishes¡­¡±

    Hearing those wordse out of his mouth, Argentum could not help but be ted as he jumped for joy. Unfortunately, his glee did notst long as the Grand Blue Master said, ¡°¡­but only on two conditions.¡±

    ¡°What would those two conditions be, Grand Blue Master?¡± Argentum hastily replied to his question. To him, as long as the conditions did not go along the lines of being stuck to the Grand Blue Inheritance for eternity, he would ept it. Even forming a Spirit Contract with the Grand Blue Master would be alright with him since that meant that he would have another life-saving trump card at his disposal.

    A few seconds after Argentum asked the Grand Blue Master, the Grand Blue Master went ahead and raised one of his fingers made out of water before saying, ¡°The first condition is that a contract between you and me shall be formed, allowing me to be notified of your location wherever you may be in Erudinia.¡±

    In response, Argentum let out an inward sigh of relief as the Grand Blue Master was not hampering his freedom to travel across Erudinia. Soon after, he nodded to his words before asking, ¡°What about the second condition?¡±

    The Grand Blue Master then went ahead and raised another finger in response as he replied, ¡°The second condition is that the amount of control you have over my inheritance can only be at 15% at most. Just so you know, 15% of my inheritance¡¯s power is already equivalent to arge portion of a small inheritance¡¯s power. I¡¯m pretty sure your teacher has already told you about this.¡±

    Surprisingly, Argentum shook his head at the Grand Blue Master¡¯sst statement. He then told him, ¡°Unfortunately, Teacher did not tell me anything about it at all. I honestly have no clue what determines the amount of power an inheritance has.¡±

    Argentum truly was curious as to how the Grand Blue Master would be able to say that. Although he knew that different inheritances offered a different boost in stats thanks to Aurus¡¯s memories regarding the Tempest Cliff Inheritance and the Area 52 Inheritance, he did not know what determined the amount of power an inheritance had.

    ¡°Seriously?¡± the Grand Blue Master could not help but ask Argentum, to which Argentum unhesitatingly nodded his head. This made the Grand Blue Master scratch his head soon after as he tried to recall what he knew about these inheritances, letting out a sigh as he recalled them. Eventually, he had organized every memory he had regarding the subject, taking in a deep breath before exining to Argentum, ¡°The amount of power an inheritance has is mostly reliant on two things. The first element would be the being that had created the inheritance, influencing the amount of defensive and offensive power an inheritance was against those who have malicious intent towards the inheritance.¡±

    ¡°The second element, on the other hand, has something more to do with the partial ownership of an inheritance. That element would be the length of time an inheritance has existed. All inheritances absorb energy from their surroundings and then redirect it towards their owners, allowing their owners to experience great improvements in their power, thus enhancing the defensive and offensive power of the inheritance even further,¡± he continued.

    ¡°The length of time an inheritance has existed can be categorized into 5 grades¡­well, to be honest, I only know of 4 grades. Some say that there are 7 inheritance grades, but the oldest I¡¯ve seen was that of the 4th grade,¡± the Grand Blue Master said, admitting that hecked quite a sizable amount of information regarding inheritances. He then borated, ¡°From weakest to strongest, those grades are: Unnamed, Small, Medium, and Large.¡±

    The Grand Blue Master took in a deep breath before going in-depth regarding the various grades he knew. ¡°Unnamed-grade inheritances have existed for at least a year, and a thousand years at most. The boost they offer is more or less insignificant to incredibly strong beings since, at most, they could only boost the owner¡¯s power by 100%, with a 50% boost not being umon to Unnamed-grade inheritances.¡±

    ¡®So the inheritance in Tempest Cliff is actually an Unnamed-grade inheritance?¡¯ Argentum could not help but think to himself, recalling the being who made the inheritance, which was Kevin. Although Kevin did lie to his original body that he was his clone, Argentum could not help but slightly admire Kevin for the number of items in the inheritance. If it were not for him, then the Argentum and Aurus of now wouldn¡¯t have been possible.

    ¡°Small-grade inheritances are one step above Unnamed-grade inheritances, with the shortest time of existence being 2000 years. One could categorize an inheritance as a Small-grade inheritance as long as they have existed for no longer than 15,000 years. At this grade, an inheritance would normally boost their owner¡¯s power at 100%, with the highest possible boost being 200%¡± the Grand Blue Master continued to exin.

    To the Grand Blue Master¡¯s exnation regarding Small-grade inheritances, Argentum nodded his head¡­only for him to realize that an inheritance he just became a partial owner of not long ago fell under this category. Calcting the stat boost he obtained for every percent of control he had over the inheritance, he made sure that it truly fell into this category.

    ¡°A Small-grade inheritance has only existed for 15,000 years at most,¡± Argentum muttered to himself before asking himself soon after, ¡°If that¡¯s the case¡­how old is Eleanor then?¡±

    Fortunately, he did not dwell too long on the topic, prompting his focus onto the Grand Blue Master once more.

    ¡°Medium-grade inheritances are pretty rare inheritances on this continent,¡± the Grand Blue Master said. ¡°At the very least, they¡¯ve existed for 20,000 years. At most, they¡¯ve existed for 50,000 years, bringing incredible improvements to the inheritance¡¯s owner while the inheritance obtained a few peculiar properties in the process. My Grand Blue Inheritance falls under this category, just so you know.¡±

    ¡°The lowest boost a Medium-grade inheritance can give would be 300% while the highest would be around 1000%¡± the Grand Blue Master added. Just as he was about to exin what Large-grade inheritances were, he let out an awkward chuckle as he said, ¡°To be honest, I don¡¯t really know that much about Large-grade inheritances. All I know is that as long as they¡¯ve existed for over 100,000 years, one could consider them as a Large-grade inheritance. Surprisingly, only around five inheritances of that grade exist in this continent.¡±

    Taking in yet another deep breath, the Grand Blue Master looked at Argentum and asked him, ¡°Anyways, does that clear up your confusion? Also, are you willing to ept the two conditions I¡¯ve given you?¡±

    Argentum nodded in response to the Grand Blue Master¡¯s question, replying, ¡°Yes, it has indeed cleared up my confusion, Grand Blue Master. Also, I ept your two conditions.¡±

    Recalling what the Grand Blue Master told him about Medium-grade inheritances, he calcted that he would at least get a 45% boost from bing a partial owner of the inheritance. Although he was not sure if the Grand Blue Inheritance had existed for 50,000 years, thinking that he had a small chance to obtain a 150% boost made him expectant of this ownership.

    In response to Argentum¡¯s words, the Grand Blue Master radiated an aura of happiness as he said, ¡°Alright. Give me a second to prepare.¡±

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    Not long after that, the Grand Blue Master went ahead and released the entirety of his aura, which was a few notches more tyrannical than Eleanor¡¯s. Just as Argentum felt that he would not be able to withstand such an aura any longer, the Grand Blue Master soon suppressed his aura after a few milliseconds, condensing some of it towards a ball of blue energy that hovered around his finger.

    ¡°Under the sights of heaven, I, the Grand Blue Master, shall now bestow Argentum here a portion of the Grand Blue Inheritance¡¯s control. May this agreementst for eternity!¡± the Grand Blue Master shouted as he flung the ball of blue energy towards Argentum. He then followed up with, ¡°Argentum, don¡¯t dodge it, okay?¡±

    In response, Argentum nodded, knowing that the ball of blue energy the Grand Blue Master sent flying towards him contained a part of the Grand Blue Inheritance¡¯s power. Since he had already gone through something like this before, it was not hard for him to stay in ce, allowing his body to absorb the ball of blue energy, imbuing his body with a great sense of power.

    Surprisingly, he felt that the ball of blue energy held as much power as the one thrown at him by Eleanor from back then. After a few more seconds, he now felt like he could peer through the walls of the room he was currently in, allowing him to see what were in the other rooms.

    Ding!

    ¡®You have obtained the title [Grand Blue Inheritance: Partial Ownership].¡¯

    Although he had the urge to check the boost the new title he had obtained gave him, just like before, he knew that it would be rude for him to do so. Taking a deep breath, he then said to the Grand Blue Master, ¡°Thank you, Grand Blue Master, for giving me the rewards I want.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re wee,¡± the Grand Blue Master said, apanied with a light chuckle. He then told him, ¡°Of course, our deal is not over yet. We still have to make a contract between the two of us.¡±

    ¡°Ah, yes,¡± Argentum said in response, only for a thought to surface in his mind soon after. With that in mind, hemanded the system in his mind to summon Blob out as he said to the Grand Blue Master, ¡°Uh¡­before we sign a contract between the two of us, could you fulfill one of my small requests, Grand Blue Master?¡±

    ¡°Hmm? What would that request be?¡± the Grand Blue Master asked in response, only for him to radiate an aura of slight surprise as he noticed that a strong Pseudo-Animate of the Fire element now stood beside Argentum.

    Of course, this Pseudo-Animate was none other than Blob, who immediately felt weak at the very instant he was summoned out of the system. Forcing himself to not faint through his willpower, his sense of vision gradually shifted towards Argentum beside him as he asked him in an annoyed voice, ¡°You should¡¯ve told me that you were going to summon me, Argentum! Guh¡­I feel weak¡­¡±

    ¡°As you can see, Grand Blue Master, mypanion here is of the Fire element, thus he is greatly disadvantaged in this environment,¡± Argentum started to exin to the Grand Blue Master, ignoring the words said by Blob to him in the process. ¡°Would you please bestow mypanion a skill to resist the Water element so that he could move the area without any problems?¡±

    ¡°¡­¡± Looking at the stark contrast between Argentum, who was calmly exining hispanion¡¯s situation beside him, and hispanion, who seemed to be silently cursing Argentum to die, the Grand Blue Master was left at a loss for words.

    Eventually, a sound came out of the Grand Blue Master¡¯s mouth after a few seconds of looking at Argentum and hispanion back and forth. This sound was none other than¡­

    ¡°¡­huh.¡±

 Chapter 253: Lesser Origin

    Chapter 253: Lesser Origin

    Even though he was dumbfounded from what he was seeing with his sense of vision right now, he naturally knew that a Fire-based Pseudo-Animate would eventually die here unless they were of a sufficiently high grade. Continuing to look at Argentum and hispanion back and forth, although hispanion was a few grades higher than Argentum, it was still not enough for it to withstand the Water element prevalent in this area.

    Snap!

    Without hesitation, the Grand Blue Master snapped his fingers as he let out a sigh of slight annoyance, wondering what was going on inside Argentum¡¯s mind for him to ask him such a request. Not long after he snapped his fingers, a strand of blue energy gradually made its way to Argentum¡¯spanion, instantly feeling invigorated as it noticed that it did not feel that weak when surrounded by the Water element anymore.

    ¡°Eh?¡± Blob could not help but mutter in slight stupefaction. Just a while ago, he was in great pain, feeling that every second he was inside this ce, a great chunk of his health would be shaved off. But now, the pain he felt was more or less tolerable, making him conclude that he could move like usual as long as he ignored the constant but mild pain he felt.

    Moving his limbs around for a bit, Blob eventually let out a sigh before sorting out the thoughts in his mind. Soon after, his sense of vision focused onto Argentum beside him as his voice took on an infuriated tone. ¡°What the heck, Argentum? Did you really have to summon me without any warning? You told me that I¡¯d be heavily disadvantaged here in this area before we entered, but who knew that the pain I felt would be far worse than I imagined?¡±

    ¡°But aren¡¯t you fine right now?¡± Argentum said in response to Blob¡¯s questions, leading Blob to be silent as an aura of slight annoyance and infuriation emanated from him. Eventually, Blob let out another sigh filled with annoyance before saying, ¡°Well yeah, but you know you could¡¯ve warned me that I was going to be summoned so I was more prepared.¡±

    ¡°Sorry, sorry,¡± Argentum said in response, finally feeling a bit of remorse from what he had done. ¡°The thought came out of the blue so I thought I should do it as soon as possible before I forget it.¡±

    At this moment, the Grand Blue Master interrupted the conversation between the two as he looked at Argentum and asked, ¡°Argentum, er¡­could you exin your reasoning as to why you summoned your friend out here in an area where he¡¯s elementally disadvantaged?¡±

    In response, Argentum took in a few breaths of air before responding with an awkward chuckle, ¡°As I¡¯ve said before to mypanion, the thought came to me all of a sudden. I thought that I might forget it after we form a contract, so I decided to do it as fast as possible.¡±

    ¡°I see,¡± the Grand Blue Master said, eventually nodding in understanding. He then looked at Blob beside Argentum before saying, ¡°Argentum, you should really take better care of yourpanions next time. Who knows when they¡¯ll help you out while you¡¯re in a pinch.¡±

    Argentum let out a short sigh as he nodded, feeling even more remorse from before thanks to the Grand Blue Master¡¯s words. He then said, ¡°I¡¯ll make sure to keep that in mind.¡±

    After that, he took in a deep breath before going ahead and introducing hispanion to the Grand Blue Master by saying, ¡°Anyways, Grand Blue Master, this is mypanion Blob. We becamepanions in the Inferno ins where Teacher¡¯s inheritance resides.¡±

    Surprisingly, Blob already got over his grievances with Argentum since he followed up on Argentum¡¯s words, taking a few steps forward before respectfully bowing. From the aura emanating from the being in front of him, Blob immediately realized that this being was the one that gave him the [Water Resistance] skill. With a respectful tone, he said, ¡°Nice to meet you, er¡­¡±

    ¡°You can call me Grand Blue Master,¡± the Grand Blue Master replied, letting out a light chuckle before asking, ¡°Would it be fine if I call you Blob?¡±

    ¡°That would be fine, Grand Blue Master,¡± Blob replied, emanating a slightly gleeful aura soon after. He then told the Grand Blue Master with a grateful tone, ¡°Also, I would like to thank you for bestowing me resistance to the Water element. I sincerely appreciate it.¡±

    ¡°No worries,¡± the Grand Blue Master replied as he waved his hands back and forth nonchntly. ¡°Is this how Argentum usually treats you?¡±

    Hearing that question, Argentum had the urge to interrupt Blob and answer it, but unfortunately, Blob did not give him the chance to do so, opening his mouth not even an instant after the Grand Blue Master was finished questioning him. He shook his head as he responded, ¡°Not at all. Before we arrived at this area, Argentum helped me out in reaching the current strength I possess, deciding that his own strength is second priority.¡±

    ¡°Hoh?¡± the Grand Blue Master uttered as his interest was piqued. ¡°Might I ask what grade were you originally before Argentum helped you out?¡±

    ¡°Er¡­¡± In response, Blob scratched his head for a bit before responding, ¡°If I¡¯m not mistaken, Normal-grade?¡±

    ¡°Really?¡± At this moment, the Grand Blue Master¡¯s vision was fixated on Argentum, who was looking at the two of them with an aura of slight solemnity. Eventually, he ended the conversation between him and Blob as he said, ¡°Thanks for answering my questions, Blob.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re incredibly wee, Grand Blue Master,¡± Blob replied, letting out a light giggle after that. With the conversation between the two now over, Blob looked at Argentum and said, ¡°So¡­what are we going to do now, Argentum?¡±

    Surprisingly, rather than say it out loud, Argentum sent a strand of his energy towards Blob with a message attached to it.

    ¡®I¡¯ll ce you back to where you were before. Is that fine with you?¡¯ This was what the strand contained.

    Blob pondered for a short bit as a response, eventually nodding slightly as Argentum said out loud, ¡°I still have to form a contract with the Grand Blue Master, so is it fine if you go back to where you were?¡±

    With Argentum¡¯s mental message from before, Blob followed his lead as he replied, ¡°Sure. Make sure to call me when you need me, okay?¡±

    ¡°I definitely will,¡± Argentum replied. He then went ahead andmanded the system in his mind to keep Blob.

    Whoosh!

    Not long after, Blob had disappeared from the room where he and the Grand Blue Master were in, leaving the Grand Blue Master in a state of slight stupefaction.

    Since he had already lived for a long time, he knew that some were well-versed in magic rted to the Space element. He had a hunch that Argentum used such a magic rted to the element to summon hispanion, but he felt no fluctuation from the element at all, leaving him in a confused state.

    In the end, rather than going ahead and asking Argentum as to how he was able to do it, he decided to keep the question to himself, thinking that there was no reason for him to know Argentum¡¯s vital secrets if he did not want to reveal them.

    ¡°Where were we?¡± Dispelling the thoughts in his mind, the Grand Blue Master said a few seconds after Blob disappeared from the room. ¡°Ah, right. The contract.¡±

    Snap!

    Once more, the Grand Blue Master snapped his fingers, hastily conjuring a magic circle that covered both of them in an instant. Noticing what was happening, Argentum could not help but be slightly shocked at the speed at which the circle was formed, but eventually calmed himself down as he thought that different beings had their unique ways of establishing contracts.

    ¡°Just stay still, okay?¡± the Grand Blue Master said to Argentum, to which Argentum nodded in response. He then said, ¡°Oh, and also, once I tell you to release some of your energy, release it, okay?¡±

    With Argentum nodding once more, the Grand Blue Master started the process of establishment, hastily infusing a great amount of energy into the magic circle beneath them. In an instant, the magic circle shed a bright blue light, making Argentum feel that his connection with the heavens outside the inheritance had be stronger.

    ¡°Let the heavens be the witness and adjudicator of the contract being made on this fateful day,¡± the Grand Blue Master said not long after, making sure that every word he said was clear. ¡°I, the Grand Blue Master, owner of the Grand Blue Inheritance, have decided to form a contract with Argentum, the Undying me Spirit¡¯s student.¡±

    ¡°May the contract allow us two to contact each other at any time and any ce within the confines of Erudinia,¡± he solemnly murmured soon after as he then released a bit of his energy, which soon transformed into a ball. The Grand Blue Master then focused his vision towards Argentum before muttering in a solemn voice, ¡°Release your energy now, Argentum.¡±

    Whoosh!

    In an instant, Argentum released his own energy, transforming into a ball that did not lose out to the Grand Blue Master¡¯s in terms of size. Seeing that Argentum followed his words, the Grand Blue Master then continued with the establishment process as he shouted, ¡°May our energies be our signatures for the contract. I dere that from this day forward, the contract binding the two of us shall be effective!¡±

    Bang!

    A few secondster, the ball of energies the two had made exploded all of a sudden. Before Argentum could avoid the explosion, he realized that the explosion did not hurt him at all, but instead infused him with a feeling that he had gotten closer to the Grand Blue Master. Soon after that, the magic circle beneath their bodies gradually disappeared, enhancing the connection Argentum felt towards the Grand Blue Master.

    Although it was still a bitcking whenpared to the connection he felt with Eleanor due to the Spirit Contract, it was still pretty strong.

    With the contract now formed, the Grand Blue Master looked at Argentum with an aura of happiness as he let out a light chuckle. ¡°Well then. That wasn¡¯t so hard now, was it?¡±

    ¡°From this day onward, you¡¯ll now be a partial owner of the Grand Blue Inheritance,¡± he added after that. He then pondered over something for a bit, eliciting Argentum to ask him a question, saying, ¡°What are you thinking about, Grand Blue Master?¡±

    ¡°I was just thinking that since we¡¯re already bound by a contract, we could consider ourselves as brothers,¡± the Grand Blue Master said in response, the aura of happiness surrounding him intensifying. ¡°Don¡¯t you think it¡¯s a bit unfair for you to call me a nickname while I can call you by your real name?¡±

    ¡°To be honest, I have noment regarding that,¡± Argentum replied without hesitation, which slightly surprised the Grand Blue Master. Nevertheless, since the Grand Blue Master thought that he should treat someone who would be his equal in the future while he was pondering, there¡¯s no harm in telling Argentum his real name.

    ¡°Felix,¡± the Grand Blue Master said out of the blue, slightly confusing Argentum. Noticing Argentum¡¯s confusion, the Grand Blue Master cleared it up by saying, ¡°Felix is my real name.¡±

    ¡°Felix, huh,¡± Argentum repeated the name. For some reason, the name awakened a vague memory Aurus had regarding a person he would watch from time to time. Then again, the details were quite hazy so Argentum did not bother to try and recall it. ¡°What a nice name.¡±

    ¡°I know, right?¡± Felix replied as he chortled. ¡°Anyways, what are you going to do next? Head towards an inheritance for Earth-based Pseudo-Animates? If so, I could rmend a few good ones for you.¡±

    Surprisingly, Argentum shook his head in response as he said, ¡°I¡¯m not heading there at all. My next destination is Verdant Breeze Town.¡±

    To Argentum, telling the Grand Blue Master about where he was going to next did not really pose any harm to him. If the Grand Blue Master harbored any malicious intent towards him, then he might have decided otherwise.

    ¡°Verdant Breeze Town¡­¡± the Grand Blue Master repeated those words, recalling what kind of ce it was. A few secondster, his aura turned to that of confusion as he asked Argentum, ¡°Why would you head towards a ce that¡¯s more inclined towards the Wind element?¡±

    ¡°I have my reasons,¡± Argentum said in response. This time, he decided that it would be better for the Grand Blue Master to not know about his ns since the reward at the end of it would probably even make Felix jealous.

    In response, Felix shrugged his shoulders as he said, ¡°Alright, then. I won¡¯t force you to answer. Then again, I must remind you to steer clear from Animates if you¡¯re nning to do some looting.¡±

    He then chuckled as he continued, ¡°Those times were quite fun, but having a great defensive skill would definitely help you out ining out of the town with greater rewards.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll keep the Grand Blue Master¡¯s words in mind,¡± Argentum said not long after that. Soon after, Argentum went ahead and said his goodbyes to the Grand Blue Master, to which the Grand Blue Master went ahead and used a bit of his energy to teleport Argentum out of his inheritance.

    Using his energy to look at Argentum slowly increasing his distance from the Grand Blue Inheritance for a bit, Felix eventually let out a sigh filled with joy as he said with a chortle, ¡°I should tell Eleanor about what he chose. I¡¯m pretty sure she¡¯d be shocked as well.¡±

    ¡°Then again, why is Argentum aiming to obtain skills from the foundational elements?¡± he asked himself soon after as he made his way to the ce where he usually resided. He pondered over it for a bit, his thought focusing on the phrase ¡®four foundational elements¡¯. After a while, an old memory surfaced on his mind just as he arrived at his ce. This old memory had something to do with the four foundational elements he was mulling over, prompting him to try and recall all he remembered about the memory.

    After a few minutes have passed, an aura of intense shock radiated from him as he shouted, ¡°Is he seriously aiming for that?!¡±

    ¡°Is that even possible? I¡¯m pretty sure that kind of requirement came from the myths,¡± Felix could not help but mutter soon after as his aura turned to that of expectation.

    Forming a chair where he could sit downfortably, the Grand Blue Master sat on it as he let out augh, muttering, ¡°Who knew that Argentum¡¯s ambitions were actually far bigger than I thought? I wonder if Eleanor has already thought about it.¡±

    ¡°An element that triumphs over the four foundational elements in every way possible,¡± he said to himself in an amused tone. ¡°An element that can only be formed once the four foundational elements unite.¡±

    ¡°Lesser Origin.¡±

    ¡°Well¡­¡±

    ¡°Good luck, Argentum.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯ll surely need it.¡±

 Chapter 254: Second Attempt?

    Chapter 254: Second Attempt?

    In a deeper part of the Grand Blue Inheritance.

    Whoosh!

    Arge ball of fiery red energy passed through the solid ice walls that made up the inheritance, heading towards where the Grand Blue Master sat. Noticing that the ball of red energy had arrived, he hastily sent a strand of his energy towards the ball, allowing a connection to be formed in his mind as a familiar voice to him resonated a few secondster.

    ¡°This is the third time you¡¯ve called me as of recent,¡± the voice said, which was quite feminine in tone. It then took on a hint of teasing as it continued with a giggle, ¡°Does the Grand Blue Master miss the Undying me Spirit that much?¡±

    ¡°If your student wasn¡¯t too exemry, I wouldn¡¯t have even called you once, Eleanor,¡± Felix responded to the voice¡¯s words, which was Eleanor¡¯s. ¡°Let me ask you something, Eleanor. Did you tell your student to aim for skills of the four foundational elements or was it really his own idea?¡±

    Only a few minutes have passed since Argentum had left the Grand Blue Inheritance. Naturally, Felix would head back to the room where he usually resided since no other inheritor was inside his inheritance at the moment. Then again, it was rare for him toe out of his room and greet the inheritor personally.

    With the thoughts rted to the four foundational elements and Argentum circling in his mind, the urge to contact Eleanor regarding what he had in mind had reached a zenith, prompting him to send a ball of his energy towards her. That decision led to the conversation that was happening right now.

    ¡°Huh? Why do I feel like you¡¯re trying to use me of something?¡± Eleanor said in response to his question. With a feeling of being wronged, she added, ¡°Did you really think I would give my student the idea of learning skills from all of the foundational elements? That would just hamper their growth rate, you know.¡±

    From the point when Argentum was indirectly mentioned, Eleanor made sure that she did not slip up, making sure to reveal to the Grand Blue Master that their rtionship was that of teacher and student, not that of co-owners.

    ¡°Who knew the Undying me Spirit would actually use her brains for once?¡± the Grand Blue Master joked, only to realize the awkward atmosphere that resulted from his joke. Imitating the sound of a being clearing their throat, Felix continued with the topic he had in mind, which was to inform Eleanor about what Argentum was nning.

    ¡°Anyways, haven¡¯t you ever wondered that it was weird for a Wind-based Pseudo-Animate to aim for the skills rted to every foundational element and not the Wind element only?¡± the Grand Blue Master asked, to which the Undying me Spirit replied, ¡°Of course, I¡¯ve wondered about it before. But you know his qualities, his highprehension rate makes up for the number of skills he¡¯s learning.¡±

    Although it seemed that Eleanor was replying to Felix¡¯s questions with confident answers, in fact, she was wracking her brains to the limit, trying to piece an answer that seemed believable from a teacher¡¯s perspective. Fortunately, Felix bought her answer, letting out a light giggle in the process. Hearing the light giggle resound throughout her mind, Eleanor could not help but ask, ¡°What are you giggling about, Grand Blue Master?¡±

    ¡°I told you to call me Felix, no?¡± Felix said in response to her question, only for him to imitate the sound of one clearing their throat once more as he changed the topic in an instant, taking on a mysterious tone as he told her, ¡°I¡¯m surprised you haven¡¯t seen the limit of Argentum¡¯s ambitions.¡±

    ¡°Ambitions? What ambitions?¡± Eleanor asked as a response to his question before adding, ¡°Mastering every skill from every foundational element?¡±

    ¡°Nope,¡± the Grand Blue Master replied in an amused tone. ¡°Something more ambitious than that.¡±

    ¡°What ambition would be more ambitious than mastering every skill from every foundational element?¡± Eleanor muttered to herself, squeezing her brain dry to eventually end up with no answer in mind. Feeling that Felix was messing around with her with his vague responses, Eleanor took on a slightly infuriated tone as she said, ¡°Just get straight to the point and tell me already, Felix.¡±

    Radiating an aura of amusement, which was felt by Eleanor through the ball of energy, the Grand Blue Master did not hesitate to ask the Undying me Spirit, ¡°Have you heard of the Lesser Origin element?¡±

    ¡°Well, yeah,¡± Eleanor unhesitatingly replied. ¡°How could I not know about it? It¡¯s an element that considered the element that triumphs over the four foundational elements.¡±

    Not getting what Felix was trying to say, she could not connect Argentum to his question, prompting her to ask him, ¡°What does the Lesser Origin element have to do with Argentum?¡±

    ¡°Let me ask you another question in response to yours,¡± the Grand Blue Master replied to her question before asking, ¡°ording to legends, how does onee to know the Lesser Origin element?¡±

    ¡°ording to legends?¡± Hearing that phrase, Eleanor could not help but recall what she knew about the legend of the Lesser Origin element, eventually saying, ¡°When the four elements of foundation unite into one entity, one shall ascend through the stairway of heaven, bing one¡­with¡­Lesser Origin¡­¡±

    ¡°Huh¡­¡± As she recited the quote that referenced the Lesser Origin element in the legends, she noticed that the first part of the quote was simr to what Argentum was trying to do. With a surprised yet insanely curious tone, Eleanor asked Felix, ¡°Are you telling me that Argentum¡¯s trying to transition from the Wind element to the Lesser Origin element?¡±

    ¡°To be honest, I thought you already had such a thought in mind,¡± the Grand Blue Master said in response to her words. Eleanor then replied, ¡°Who would expect a Normal-grade Pseudo-Animate to aim for such a heavenly element? I thought he was just going to transition to the Fiery Tempest element when he entered my inheritance. When he mentioned that he was going to enter your inheritance, that thought changed to Tri-elemental Tempest.¡±

    ¡°Who would automatically think of the Lesser Origin element in that scenario other than you,¡± she added. Going silent for a bit as she pondered over it for a bit more, she eventually said, ¡°Then again, he might not be aiming for the Lesser Origin element at all. He could just be aiming for Tetraelemental Tempest for all we care.¡±

    Listening to Eleanor¡¯s exnation, Felix thought that her words did make some sense. He then said, ¡°Sure, let¡¯s say that he¡¯s aiming for the Tetraelemental Tempest element right now. But theoretically, what if he was actually aiming for the Lesser Origin element? Do you think he could pass through the Origin Trials?¡±

    The Origin Trials. Hearing the phrasee out of Felix¡¯s mouth could not help but make Eleanor shudder a bit as she remembered how monstrous those who traversed the Origin Trials were. The Origin Trials, from its name, was a set of trials made for those who had unified the four foundational elements inside the body and wanted to fuse them together into the Lesser Origin element. Unfortunately, it was said that the trials had a 99.9% failure rate, wherein failure meant death.

    Knowing a few being that traversed the Origin Trials throughout her life and never seeing them again after they entered thest part of the trials, Eleanor could not help but think that the Origin Trials were insanely difficult. With that in mind, she hastily said, ¡°At his current state, definitely not. He¡¯d probably need to go through at least three Power Baptisms to have a fighting chance.¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t you think his grade is quite low for someone who¡¯s attempting the Origin Trials?¡± the Grand Blue Master said in response to the Undying me Spirit¡¯s question before adding, ¡°I think he needs to be at least Epic-grade to make sure that he could at least pass through the first few trials.¡±

    ¡°Yeah, I think so as well,¡± the Undying me Spirit replied, agreeing with what Felix had in mind. A few secondster, she chuckled as she said, ¡°Of course, he¡¯s not aiming for the Lesser Origin element, right?¡±

    Surprisingly, a moment of silence arose from the question, prompting Eleanor to repeat thest word of her question.

    ¡°¡­right?¡±

    After a few more seconds, the Grand Blue Master decided to break the silence as he said, ¡°You know, we could always ask Argentum about it. I have a method tomunicate with him at any time and any ce. Want me to use it?¡±

    ¡°Hoh?¡± Eleanor¡¯s sense of hearing perked up after hearing what Felix said, asking him, ¡°You have a method tomunicate with him? I wonder how that came about?¡±

    To Eleanor, who knew a bit of Argentum¡¯s mindset, it seemed that Argentum became a partial owner of the Grand Blue Inheritance, forcing Felix to form a contract with him. Of course, how could she not be familiar with it since she made one with Argentum as well?

    In response, the Grand Blue Master let out an awkward chuckle as he said, ¡°It¡¯s a long story. Anyways, want me to use it?¡±

    ¡°No need,¡± Eleanor hastily declined as she added, ¡°I have a method tomunicate with him as well. Just before you ask how I have such a method, how could a teacher not worry about her student?¡±

    And just like that, before the Grand Blue Master could dissuade Eleanor from contacting Argentum, Eleanor hastily used her methods to contact Argentum. Of course, that method was none other than the Spirit Contract.

    ¡­

    In an area close to the boundary of the Azure Shores.

    Two Pseudo-Animates, one Fire-based and one Wind-based, were currently fighting against some of the natives. Well, to be more exact, the Fire-based Pseudo-Animate was the one fighting against the natives, using its body to withstand their attacks before retaliating with its own. On the other hand, the Wind-based Pseudo-Animate was looking at the Fire-based Pseudo-Animate, sensing the aura itspanion released to get a feel as to how much itspanion had improved.

    Of course, these two Pseudo-Animates were none other than Blob and Argentum. After exiting the Grand Blue Inheritance, the first thought that entered Argentum¡¯s mind was to enhance Blob¡¯s resistance to the Water element to a satisfactory level. So far, after ten minutes or so of withstanding attacks, Blob¡¯s resistance was approaching a level where Argentum would be satisfied.

    While he was continuing to look at Blob, a familiar voice resounded throughout his mind, telling him, ¡°Hey, Argentum. I want to ask you something.¡±

    Feeling the immensely strong connection to the person that contacted him, Argentum instantly thought that Eleanor was contacting him, which her voice resounding throughout his mind served as further evidence. Without dy, he responded in his mind, ¡°What¡¯s up?¡±

    ¡°Are you trying to learn the Lesser Origin element?¡± Eleanor asked, her tone filled with both confidence and uncertainty. As for Argentum, he was briefly left at a loss for words as he did not expect Eleanor to find out what he was doing. Fortunately, he hastily calmed himself down as he responded, ¡°Yeah. Who did you hear it from?¡±

    ¡°Eh? You¡¯re actually aiming for the Lesser Origin?¡± Eleanor could not help but say, only to add, ¡°And uh¡­from the Grand Blue Master. I heard it from him.¡±

    ¡°I see,¡± Argentum said in response to her reply. After looking at Blob for a bit, he then asked her, ¡°Do you have any other questions you wanted to ask me?¡±

    ¡°Hmm¡­I think I¡¯m good,¡± Eleanor replied in an instant. ¡°Thanks, Argentum. Make sure to contact me from time to time, okay?¡±

    ¡°Yeah, I will,¡± Argentum said before bidding farewell to Eleanor as the conversation between them had finished. At this point in time, the aura radiating from Blob had reached a level wherein Argentum could consider it as barely satisfactory to his tastes. Without hesitation, he shouted to Blob, who was slightly far away from him, ¡°Hey, Blob! You can stop now!¡±

    ¡°Alright!¡± Blob shouted in response to Argentum¡¯s yell, hastily taking out the natives that were still attacking him even though he was elementally disadvantaged. Fortunately, the disparity in their strength wasrge enough for Blob to kill them in one hit. After making sure that the natives that were eyeing him a while ago had fled, Blob then headed to where Argentum was before asking, ¡°So¡­what are we going to do next?¡±

    ¡°We¡¯re going to head somewhere,¡± Argentum replied with a slightly excited tone,manding the system to open up a map of the surrounding areas before plotting out a route that would take the shortest time for him¡­well, Blob, to arrive at the destination he had in mind. After making sure that Blob was not going to pass through any treacherous terrain, he then condensed this route into a strand of energy, which he then sent to Blob without hesitation.

    ¡°That¡¯s the route you¡¯re going to take,¡± Argentum said as he sent the strand of energy. ¡°You¡¯re free to increase your strength along the path while I increase mine. We¡¯re actually going far faster than I expected.¡±

    Whoosh!

    Not long after, Argentum morphed into a speck of red sand, which made itselffortable on Blob¡¯s shoulder a few secondster. After that, he told Blob that they were now ready to depart, to which Blob replied only after a couple of minutes as it took him quite a while to digest the route they were heading to.

    Swoosh!

    And with that, the two were now heading towards the boundary of the Azure Shores, finally on a journey that was headed to thest ce Argentum had in mind, Verdant Breeze Town.

    ¡®Hmm¡­should I attempt a Power Baptism along the way?¡¯ While he was pondering on what skills he was going to grind throughout this journey, this question popped up in Argentum¡¯s mind.

    Surprisingly, the answer to that question came only a split-secondter as he remembered what he told himself back in the Grand Blue Inheritance.

    ¡®Nah.¡¯

 Chapter 255: Traversing the Myriad Worlds

    Chapter 255: Traversing the Myriad Worlds

    Celestial ne, within Kurohana¡¯s ne.

    A couple of days have passed since Kurohana¡¯s ns of enhancing her power to break through the Immortal Verdict Wielder level had started. At this moment, not much of a difference could be seen on the two people that resided within the confines of the pure white cube, which were Kurohana and Shirohana respectively. But if one peered in closely through the auras that they exuded, one would be surprised that their power had improved by quite a significant amount whenpared to a few days ago.

    Since Shirohana had most of the power that Kurohana had, she was tasked by Kurohana to master and control more of the Greater Law of Reincarnation. For the past couple of days, she had not moved from the corner of the white cube she positioned herself in, maintaining a calm andposed expression while she sat cross-legged, her body still attuning to thews of the universe.

    Comparing the movement of thews around her right now from before, the movement of thews right now was a bit more vigorous and forceful, allowing one to feel an impending sense of danger from the aura emitted by her alone. In actuality, the improvement in the movement of thews was more or less minuscule, but this minuscule improvement that resulted from two continuous days of assiduous pondering was more than enough for Kurohana to shatter 4 gxies instead of 3 with the move she used back then to test her power.

    As for Kurohana, she still sat on the white chair she had conjured, with the orb reflecting Aurus¡¯s condition hovering in front of her. Throughout these past few days, the image that was on the orb had been the same. It was that of Aurus in his unconscious state. Although the sight would look boring to ayman, to Kurohana, who had a decent amount of knowledge of thews in the universe, even Aurus¡¯s evolution process gave her some insights on what she could do to improve her prowess over the Greater Law of Reincarnation, which she would share with Shirohana from time to time by exchanging pointers.

    ¡°It has been almost four days since Aurus has started his evolution process,¡± she muttered to herself as she focused on the flow of energy around Aurus¡¯s unconscious body. Surprisingly, there was a hint of a greater power, which differed from thews gods and goddesses use, coursing throughout the cocoon where he was encapsted as well. After a few more minutes, she decided that looking at Aurus¡¯s evolution process became quite boring.

    With that in mind, she decided to shift her point of a view to Aurus¡¯s clone, Argentum, for a short bit.

    Whoosh!

    In an instant, the image on the orb, which used to be that of a green translucent cocoon gradually pulsating every once in a while, had changed to that of a humanoid made out of green energy and a humanoid made out of blue energy.

    ¡°Oh?¡± Looking at the current image on the orb, Kurohana¡¯s eyebrows could not help but slightly raise with interest, wondering how Aurus¡¯s clone had gotten to this current situation. ¡°Judging from the aura exuded by the humanoid made with blue energy, it seems to be the owner of the inheritance Aurus¡¯s clone is in.¡±

    ¡°I wonder why his clone would be in a ce that¡¯s not of the same element,¡± she muttered to herself in a slightly curious tone, her brain working on overdrive for a few seconds as multiple thoughts and conclusions surfaced on her mind. Eventually, she discarded all of it as she remembered that Aurus¡¯s clone was not a part of her n in improvement at all, deciding to just look at him for a while to stave off a bit of the boredom that came with the n.

    ¡°It¡¯s not like I care anyway,¡± she said a few secondster as she shrugged her shoulders in indifference. Whatever Aurus¡¯s clone would do did not have anything to do with her at all. If his clone reached the Divinity-level, which would be the ideal situation in her mind, then it would be great, allowing the birth of a god that could surpass the gaps in existence level. But if his clone did not reach it, although she would be disappointed since she had influenced his clone quite a bit in order to give Aurus¡¯s clone an edge, she would not go out of her way to manipte fate to save his clone.

    Letting out a sigh of boredom, she infused her energy into the orb to return the image on it to that of Aurus¡¯s cocoon once again. After that, she stood up from her chair and lightly stretched her body for a bit before hastily making a clone that was made out of pure energy. She then tasked this energy clone to watch over the orb in case anything special happens before going ahead and heading towards where Shirohana was.

    As she sat cross-legged in front of her clone, Shirohana opened her eyes to briefly look at what her original body was doing. Closing her eyes soon after, she asked in a hushed voice, ¡°Exchanging pointers?¡±

    In response, Kurohana closed her eyes as well as she attuned her body to thews of the universe. A few secondster, a connection between her and Shirohana had been formed, with a connection from far away attaching to the connection the two had as well. Sensing that every clone she had was now connected as one, she then replied to Shirohana¡¯s words, saying, ¡°More or less. But this time, let¡¯s use Haihana¡¯s current senses as a reference to improve our understanding of the Greater Law of Reincarnation. Once we improve it, her power would improve as well, thus allowing her to head to more treacherous worlds.¡±

    A deafening silence soon covered the two just as Kurohana was finished talking, only for it to be broken as Shirohana responded, ¡°Alright.¡±

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    After about half a minute or so, the aura radiating from the two of them had gradually merged, forming into a singr entity as their thoughts and senses were connected. This fusion allowed them to obtain a better perception over thews of the universe, with their rate of improvement now bing somewhat visible as the movement of thews surrounding them became more vigorous after a certain amount of time.

    ¡­

    While Shirohana and Kurohana were expounding upon their understanding of the Greater Law of Reincarnation, Haihana, which was Kurohana¡¯stest clone to be made, was following her original body¡¯s orders to a T. Currently, she was inside a world that had a power system extremely different from the one that the world Aurus was in had. Although the end goal was the same, which was reaching the level of Divinity, the method this world used was more focused on the refinement of their bodies and the lengthening of their lifespans, allowing them to live carefree lives as pseudo-immortals.

    The name of the world where Haihana was currently in was Changliang, a world filled to the brim with immortals and beings that were quite close to the level of deities. At the very instant she had entered this world, the first thing she made sure of was the amount of power she could exert in this world.

    After a few attempts, she was quite surprised that the amount of power she could exert in this world was around half of the power she had in her body as a whole. Fortunately, after scrounging through the memories of a few natives that eyed her body withscivious gazes, she was able to estimate that her power was on the same level as someone at the Soul Unity realm in this world.

    Although the Soul Unity realm was not a level of power wherein one would achieve pseudo-immortality, it was still a realm that was incredibly hard for people in this world to achieve, allowing Haihana to have more confidence in obtaining more experience without being hindered by strong opponents.

    Just as she was about to start traversing throughout the world of Changliang, a thought surfaced on her mind. ¡®Now that I think about it, if I were to traverse the world alone with this current appearance of mine, not only would I have multiple people chase me for my beauty, they would also try to coerce me to join their organization as much as possible, seeing as how much power I currently wield.¡¯

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    In an instant, utilizing the Law of Deception that she had control over thanks to the Greater Law of Reincarnation, Haihana¡¯s appearance, which was an exact copy of Kurohana¡¯s appearance, had transformed into that of an oriental beauty which would definitely make a few people¡¯s heads turn around, but not to the point that people would wage war just to have her speak to them. Coupled with a red robe that looked majestic as her hair was tied into a ponytail, Haihana currently looked like a native of this world.

    Then again, the intent behind her eyes was something she could not hide with the Law of Deception, deciding to make sure that she would avoid making eye contact with people she passed by¡­lest she wanted them to be petrified for eternity.

    Fwoosh!

    A few secondster, utilizing the power she had, she then headed towards a certain ce in mind. This ce was one of the organizations nearby that ruled over a great amount of territory, which she was informed about through searching the souls of those lecherous people from before. As she made her way towards this organization, she could not help but mutter, ¡°The Myriad Sword Sect¡­I wonder if the amount of control I have over the Law of Deception would be enough for them to consider me as their elder?¡±

    And so, after about an hour of traversing or so, she had arrived in front of the gates of the organization that was named the Myriad Sword Sect, alerting the guards that presided over the gates. But just as these guards were about to alert the higher ranking personnel of the organization, Haihana utilized the Law of Deception to make them believe that she was an elder of their organization. Unsurprisingly, with the great difference in strength, she was allowed to enter the sect within a matter of a few seconds, utilizing the Law of Deception on every member that she met.

    Gradually, the memory that Haihana was a part of the Myriad Sword Sect soon spread throughout the organization, with the leader of the sect being tricked into believing that she was an elder as well. After making sure that every person in the sect was fed with the memory that Haihana was an elder of the sect, she then told the leader of the organization that she was going to go on a trip to expand her horizons, which was hastily epted by the leader after manipting her with the Law of Deception.

    With that, Haihana went ahead and traveled through multiple kingdoms and empires, basking herself in the ways of the natives in the world. The fighting style they used, thebat techniques they utilized, the power system they put effort into, all of this was gradually being hammered into Haihana. Of course, since she was a part of Kurohana¡¯s body, she knew the reason behind this order, sending the information she had obtained to both Shirohana and Kurohana from time to time.

    Eventually, a year had passed since Haihana had arrived in this world, disguising herself as multiple people with multiple jobs, allowing her original body to get a better understanding of the Greater Law of Reincarnation. While she was inside a small town, disguised as an old beggar that would do work for money, her acute senses instantly locked onto the aura of a certain entity, an entity that Haihana was not familiar with, but her original body.

    Declining the offer of a charitable person all of a sudden, Haihana went ahead and utilized her senses to the limit to track the aura as she slowly walked. Of course, to others around her, it looked like she was walking in a staggered manner, but each step she took would actually traverse tens of meters, thinking that hundreds of meters in one step would be too much in this small town.

    After a few minutes or so, Haihana finally got a closer look at the entity she had locked onto, rummaging through Kurohana¡¯s memories to find out who this entity was. Eventually, she finally recalled the entity she locked onto, muttering to herself, ¡°Ah! This was the entity Kurohana summoned to help Aurus in the war!¡±

    With her acute sense of vision, she was able to see a mosquito the size of a spider zooming through the town, which was flying at a height wherein it could not be seen by the people of the town. Nevertheless, the difference in height was not enough for Haihana to stop her senses as she went ahead and sensed the aura that came out of the mosquito, concluding that the aura that radiated from the mosquito was no different from the being that helped Aurus in that war he had back then, albeit slightly stronger.

    Thinking about what she could do to repay what the mosquito did, she shot a small strand of energy towards the mosquito as she made a finger gun, nting a mark on the mosquito wherein she would know wherever the mosquito may be.

    Satisfied with what she had done, she decided that her trip to this town was now over, heading back to the Myriad Sword Sect that she considered as her temporary base in this world.

    ¡­

    After arriving at the Myriad Sword Sect in the appearance she had for this world, she hastily went to where the leader was. Opening the door all of a sudden, the leader could not help but be flustered as she did not expect any visitors toe at this moment.

    ¡°Qing Hongxue, what are you doing here?¡± the leader asked Haihana, who decided to name herself Qing Hongxue so she would not appear any different from the natives. ¡°You do know that I¡¯m not epting any visitors at this time, right?¡±

    ¡°I apologize for intruding the leader¡¯s rest time, but this is urgent,¡± Haihana replied in a solemn tone as she respectfully bowed.

    Hearing what she said, the leader asked her, ¡°Urgent? What do you mean? Did you foresee something while you were away?¡±

    Other than deceiving everyone in the Myriad Sword Sect that she was an elder, she told the leader of the organization that she could foresee the future, which allowed the sect to escape a few cmities this past year. Of course, she was just utilizing a small portion of her control over the Greater Law of Reincarnation, which had something to do with fate.

    ¡°Indeed, I have,¡± Haihana replied to the leader¡¯s query. ¡°I have predicted that in the future, a person with great prowess over the Principle of Blood woulde to this sect.¡±

    Just as the leader was going to ask whether this person would be a bad omen to the sect, she continued, ¡°The Myriad Sword Sect should ept this person as this person would allow the sect to enter a new era of power, allowing it to stand on the same level as those other Grand-level sects.¡±

    ¡°Is that so?¡± the leader said with a tone of curiosity and expectation while her face was filled with excitement. Did you foresee the person¡¯s name by any chance?¡±

    Surprisingly, a smirk crept up on Haihana¡¯s face as she responded in a teasing tone.

    ¡°Unfortunately, I do not~¡±

    ¡°And also, make sure that person is under my tutge once they¡¯re epted, okay~?¡±

 Chapter 256: Blue Lightning Triad Tribulation

    Chapter 256: Blue Lightning Triad Tribtion

    XXXX Continent, amidst the wilderness.

    Whoosh!

    On the vast ins that constituted a part of the wilderness, one would see a humanoid made out red energy dashing through the ins at great speeds. Sensing the aura radiating from this humanoid, one would instantly conclude that one could not easily mess with this being. Not only that, but if one looked closely on one of the being¡¯s shoulders, one would notice that there was a speck of red sand on it, as if it hadnded there for no reason.

    Surprisingly though, this speck of red sand also radiated an aura that was a few notches weaker than the running humanoid. The humanoid and the speck of red sand were none other than Argentum and Blob, traversing the wilderness in order to arrive at Verdant Breeze Town.

    So far, almost two days have passed since Blob and Argentum had left the Azure Shores. With Blob utilizing the route that was plotted out by Argentum, he had traversed a great distance within these past few days, only taking a few breaks in between. Unexpectedly, while he was taking those breaks, once he had replenished his energy to a considerable amount, he would extend the time of his break a bit more and fight against beings that were nearby, allowing him to enhance his stats by quite a bit.

    Through this method, Blob had improved by around 10 levels or so, with the speed at which he ran being significantly faster than before. The same could be said for his offensive and defensive prowess.

    And then¡­there was Argentum.

    Although he would look at the surroundings for a bit after feeling that Blob went on a break, he would instantly go back to pondering over the skills he had and mastering his control over them. Unsurprisingly, this kind of mindset allowed him to achieve great improvements in almost all of his skills.

    Throughout these past few days, he was able to improve the passive Animate skills he had to the Artisan level of mastery, increasing the efficacy and range of his senses. As for his active Animate skills, all of them had reached the Master level of mastery, thus prompting him to evolve them. Of course, he advanced them even further, stopping at the Expert level of mastery. Then again, the same did not apply to the active skills he had regarding the usage of weapons.

    Regarding the other passive skills he had, almost all of them had advanced by a single grade, may it be through actively increasing their experience, or passively increasing it. The only exceptions to these skills were [Water Affinity] and [Water Resistance], which were only close to their respective maximum levels.

    The skills that had obtained the most improvement were obviously the active skills he had obtained from the Tempest Cliff and the various inheritances he had entered. The first skill he put his focus towards was [Lesser Azure Magic+], the only spell-based skill he had that was not on the same level as the other two spell-based skills he had.

    After it had evolved to [Intermediate Azure Magic++], he then put his focus on the Water and Fire counterpart of the skill as well, bing satisfied after evolving them to the next grade. Their names were now [Higher Zephyr Magic+++], [Higher Ignis Magic+++], and [Higher Algor Magic+++] respectively, with Argentum only stopping after the three had achieved Adept level.

    He then focused on the Wind-based active skills he had, with all of them advancing by a grade, stopping at either the Adept or Expert level of mastery. Then again, the same could be said for the other active skills that were based on the other elements. Almost all of them had advanced by one grade and achieved either the Adept or Expert level of mastery. The only exception to that would be [Great Sapphire Wave Art++], which did not evolve and had only achieved the Artisan level of mastery.

    ¡°Haah¡­haah¡­¡± Letting out a sigh as he ran at his full power for a few more minutes, Blob decided to head towards a nearby boulder, making it his temporary resting ce as he felt that he had almost exhausted all of his energy. Sitting down on the ground while resting his back on therge boulder, he sent a strand of his energy towards the speck of red sand on his shoulder.

    ¡®Hey, Argentum. I¡¯m going to take a break, okay?¡¯ This was what the strand of energy contained, which prompted Argentum to stop his session of grinding before opening his sense of vision soon after.

    After taking in the surroundings around them, Argentum went ahead and asked Blob, ¡°Do you know where we are right now? Just wanted to check if we¡¯re moving at a pace faster or slower than usual.¡±

    ¡°Let me recall¡­¡± Blob said in response to Argentum¡¯s words, closing his sense of vision for a bit as he put his full focus on recalling the route that Argentum gave to him. After a few seconds, he opened his sense of vision before replying, ¡°After I recuperate myself and run for a few minutes, we would be able to reach the Iridescent Light Forest.¡±

    ¡°Iridescent Light Forest,¡± Argentum repeated the name of thendmark Blob told him, recalling the route he gave to Blob a few secondster. Making sure that the calction he made in his mind was not wrong, he muttered, ¡°So¡­we¡¯re around halfway there to Verdant Breeze Town. Estimating the level of improvement Blob would make along the way, we¡¯d probably be back at Tempest Cliff just a few days more after two weeks.¡±

    ¡°Alright,¡± Argentum responded to Blob¡¯s reply before saying, ¡°Go take a nice break. We¡¯d probably reach Verdant Breeze Town after a couple more days or so. Do you think you could do it?¡±

    ¡°Believe in me, Argentum,¡± Blob replied with a light chuckle as he added, ¡°With the number of beings I kill every time I take a break, we¡¯ll definitely get there within two days or less.¡±

    ¡°Good to hear,¡± Argentum responded to Blob¡¯s statement, letting out a chuckle of his own as he closed his sense of vision. He was about to return to his usual grinding session.

    But unfortunately for him, just as he was about to expound upon the skills in his arsenal, a random thought surfaced in his mind, upying most of the concentration he had in mind. Seeing as it was slightly hard to push this thought away and focus on his skills, he decided to look at the thought, which had something to do with the first Power Baptism he had.

    ¡®My first Power Baptism, huh¡­¡¯ he thought to himself as he recalled the strength he could now unleash after clearing the Grand Blue Inheritance. ¡®Speaking of which, I still haven¡¯t checked the stat boost the Grand Blue Inheritance gave me.¡¯

    Whoosh!

    Commanding the system to reveal the title¡¯s info in his mind, it did not take long for Argentum to realize that the Grand Blue Master¡¯s words were correct when he said that 15% of his inheritance¡¯s power would be equivalent to a greater portion of a small inheritance¡¯s power.

    ________

    [Grand Blue Inheritance: Partial Ownership]

    Description has been omitted.

    > Increases all stats by 75%

    ________

    With his curiosity regarding the stat boost of the title now being satisfied, his thoughts shifted back to the first Power Baptism, wondering if he could clear it without much difficulty after everything he had been through so far. Surprisingly, even though he had a feeling that he would be able to do it, after recalling the power of the first bolt that almost killed him, he could not help but have a slight fear towards the Power Baptism.

    Rather than forcing himself to do it right now, he increased his determination that he was going to attempt his first Power Baptism after he had ransacked Verdant Breeze Town.

    ¡®Now that I think about it¡­can Blob undergo a Power Baptism?¡¯ With the thought regarding his own Power Baptism now gone, he thought that he could continue grinding his skills, only to find out that another thought had taken its original ce. This thought was now filled with the question as to whether or not Blob could clear his first Power Baptism.

    Letting out an inward sigh, Argentum focused his thoughts onto this new thought, thinking about the upsides and downsides of Blob undergoing his first Power Baptism. Unsurprisingly, the pros outweighed the cons, with the only con in undergoing a Power Baptism being the chance of being caught by an Animate.

    ¡®With Blob undergoing a Power Baptism, the speed at which we¡¯d reach Verdant Breeze Town would increase exponentially, while his strength would undergo a great upheaval as well¡­¡¯ Argentum thought to himself.

    ¡®But would a being made by the system have the ability to undergo a Power Baptism?¡¯ With this question in mind, he asked the system this question, obtaining an answer that made him satisfied.

    Ding!

    ¡°Although the user¡¯spanion is made through the usage of a skill, the world still considers the user¡¯spanion as a real being of the world, thus giving it the ability to undergo Power Baptisms and Existence Tribtions like any other being could,¡± the feminine-sounding voice said to Argentum as it resounded in his mind.

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡± Argentum pondered over it for a bit more, asking the system if he could transfer the excess energy for Power Baptisms onto Blob. Surprisingly, the system said that it was possible for that to happen, but the being where the user transferred their energy towards would instantly undergo the Power Baptism in exchange.

    Although he felt a bit of remorse for having Blob undergo a Power Baptism at the very instant he transferred energy, he thought that this would allow his ns to be a bit more flexible once he arrived at Verdant Breeze Town.

    Whoosh!

    Without hesitation, Argentum reverted to his previous form as he opened his sense of vision, surprising Blob, who was just gazing at the sky while resting.

    ¡°Eh? Why¡¯d you turn back to your original form?¡± Blob could not help but ask him, to which Argentum replied as he sat beside him, ¡°What? Can¡¯t your creator sit down and gaze at the sky with you?¡±

    ¡°Well, I have no problem with that, but usually, you¡¯d still be enhancing your abilities, Argentum,¡± Blob said as a response to his creator¡¯s question. After that, the two went silent as both of them gazed at the sky, looking at the clouds that slowly moved.

    While Blob was looking at the clouds with a pure intent, Argentum, on the other hand, was looking at the clouds while pondering over the Power Baptism, wondering if the lightning that would befall Blob would be red or not.

    Thinking about Blob¡¯s chances of seeding through his first Power Baptism, he concluded that as long as he was up against the red lightning Argentum was previously up against, with him being at Epic-grade, it would not be a problem for him to seed.

    Making up his mind after that, Argentum then focused his sense of vision towards Blob beside him before initiating a conversation as he asked him, ¡°Hey, Blob. Wanna be stronger in an instant?¡±

    ¡°Huh?¡± Being caught off-guard by Argentum¡¯s sudden question, Blob radiated an aura of confusion. He then asked him, ¡°What kind of question is that?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m just saying that¡­¡± Argentum instantly replied to his question. ¡°¡­if there was a way for you to be stronger in an instant, would you like to do it?¡±

    ¡°Well, sure but¡ª¡± Blob agreed with an uncertain tone, only for his response to be interrupted as Argentum stood up, exuding an aura filled with exuberance. Looking at Blob, Argentum then said, ¡°Alright! Let¡¯s make you stronger in an instant!¡±

    ¡°System, transfer a full bar of Power Baptism Energy to Blob!¡± Argentum shouted not long after, only for multiple strands of multicolored energy to vigorously make its way towards Blob where was. Not long after, these strands of multicolored energy were absorbed by Blob¡¯s energy, imbuing him with a sense of greater strength.

    ¡°Argentum, what are you doing?¡± Blob asked Argentum as he stood up, wondering what the multicolored energy did to him. Still radiating an aura of excitement, Argentum replied, ¡°The energy I¡¯ve given you will allow you to undergo something called a Power Baptism! Once you clear this Power Baptism, your power would instantly improve by ten times!¡±

    Rumble¡­rumble¡­

    Coincidentally, just as Argentum was finished exining what he was doing, dark gray clouds started to manifest a few thousand meters above Blob¡¯s head, radiating a feeling that the energy inside it could destroy anything. With the help of his enhanced senses, Argentum noticed the dark clouds, pointing towards it as he told Blob, ¡°Do you see the dark clouds over your head? These clouds are filled with a certain color of lightning, and some of them will strike you down, making sure that you would fail the Power Baptism.¡±

    A few secondster, a red light emanated from the center of the dark clouds as red lightning started to crackle through the clouds. Noticing this, Blob could not help but look at Argentum and ask, ¡°So¡­all I have to do is just defend against the bolts of lightning that want to strike me down?¡±

    ¡°Exactly,¡± Argentum said in response as he continued to look at the dark clouds. At first, he expected the bolts of lightning that would strike Blob would be red lightning, but as he looked further, the amount of red lightning crackling through the clouds were far more numerous than the amount he had on his first attempt.

    Although he felt that something bad was going to happen, he continued to think optimistically, thinking that Blob would just have to withstand a numerous amount of red lightning bolts.

    Unfortunately, that was not the case.

    Whoosh!

    Not long after, the red light that emanated from the center of the dark clouds had instantly transformed into a purple hue, the aura of destruction emanating from the bolts now enhanced by a grade. Seeing that the red lightning bolts were transformed into purple lightning bolts, Argentum could not help but feel dread as he noticed that Blob was looking at the lightning bolts with eagerness, radiating an aura that seemed to say that he was wondering whether he could defend against the bolts without a problem.

    ¡°Please don¡¯t be worse. Please don¡¯t be worse.¡± With the red lightning bolts now purple, Argentum could not help but mutter these words, hoping that the lightning bolts that would strike Blob down would be purple at most. He had a hunch that Blob would be able to survive an onught of purple lightning bolts with injuries, but any further than that and there was a high chance that he might dissipate into thin air.

    Sadly, contrary to the mumbling he had done, the purple lightning bolts crackling through the clouds had undergone the same process as the red lightning bolts from before, bing more numerous by the second before the light at the center of the dark clouds changed.

    In an instant, the purple light radiating amidst the clouds had turned into that of a dark blue hue, carrying an aura of destruction far more condensed than the purple and red lightning boltsbined.

    ¡°Blue lightning?????¡± Argentum could not help but mutter in an incredibly dreadful tone. At this moment, he was truly regretting his decision¡­which was further enhanced by obtaining a notification from his system.

    Ding!

    ¡®The user¡¯spanion has attempted a Power Baptism!¡¯

    ¡®Due to the power stored inside the user¡¯spanion, the decided baptism trial shall be¡­¡¯

    ¡®The Blue Lightning Triad Tribtion!¡¯

 Chapter 257: A Successful Baptism

    Chapter 257: A Sessful Baptism

    ¡°What the heck?¡± Argentum could not help but mutter with a tone of utter shock as he read through the notifications he had received. ¡°Blue Lightning Triad Tribtion? What kind of trial is that?!¡±

    Seeing as the blue lightning bolts haven¡¯t struck Blob yet, Argentum took this time to go ahead and ask the system regarding the severity of blue lightning. Fortunately, sensing that its user was in a race against time, the system hastily answered Argentum¡¯s question as a feminine-sounding voice resounded in his mind.

    ¡°A blue lightning bolt is made up of 10 purple lightning bolts. On the other hand, a purple lightning bolt is made up of 100 red lightning bolts. In other words, a blue lightning bolt has the force of at least 1000 red lightning bolts behind it,¡± the system said in his mind, increasing the amount of dread and remorse he felt with the sudden decision he had just made.

    After asking the system the question he had in mind, Argentum pondered on what he could do to increase Blob¡¯s chance of seeding in what seemed to be a hellish version of his own Power Baptism. It only took a few seconds for Argentum toe up with a good idea, muttering a few incantations as he extended his palm outward, aiming it towards Blob as he shouted, ¡°Hey, Blob! Make sure you seed, okay?¡±

    ¡°[Higher Zephyr Magic: Zephyr Burst Omega, Second Verse]!¡±

    ¡°[Higher Ignis Magic: Ignis Burst Omega, Second Verse]!¡±

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    Not long after, tworge balls of energy, which were red and green respectively, made their way towards Blob¡¯s body, which was absorbed after that. At the very instant the two balls were fully absorbed, Blob instantly felt that his feet were incredibly light, making him feel that he would be able to traverse terrain at incredibly fast speeds.

    Not only that, but he also felt that a tyrannical and oppressive force surged throughout his body, making him feel that he had the strength to cleave the heavens and tear the world asunder. Realizing that the spells cast at him were filled with the intent of helping him have an easier time in clearing the Power Baptism Argentum told him, Blob looked back at Argentum as he said with a grateful tone, ¡°With the spells you¡¯ve cast on me, I definitely will!¡±

    ¡°Now I really regret doing this.¡± Hearing the grateful tone that covered Blob¡¯s words, Argentum felt even more remorse than before, wondering what Blob would feel when he found out that the blue lightning that he was going to defend against was far more dangerous than he thought. At this moment, he was now a few dozen meters away from where Blob was, making sure that he was not caught up in the middle.

    The spells he had cast were spells that he had obtained after evolving the spell-based skills he had to another level. The only difference between these spells and the weaker versions of the same spells was their efficacy and speed of casting. Indeed, the spells he had could actually be cast on other beings. In actuality, before deciding to use Blob as his main method of travel, Argentum thought of casting [Zephyr Burst] or another version of the spell on Blob to lessen the travel time between ces, but decided otherwise as it would, in a way, reduce the time he had to improve his skills before he arrived at the ce.

    As for [Aqua Burst], which was a spell that increased the efficacy of skills to unimaginable levels, he opted to not cast it on Blob right now. He was going to wait for the moment that Blob used a skill to mitigate the damage he would receive from the blue lightning.

    Rumble¡­rumble¡­

    The blue lightning lingering through the dark clouds continued to rumble, the aura radiating from each lightning bolt gradually increasing. Surprisingly, even after a couple of minutes, no blue lightning bolt came out of the clouds to strike Blob down, which allowed Blob to activate a few of his skills, which mostly focused on increasing his stats, especially defense.

    Feeling that the blue lightning was not going to strike down any time soon, Argentum went ahead and asked the system, ¡°System, why is Blob¡¯s first Power Baptismposed of blue lightning? Wasn¡¯t mine onlyposed of red lightning? Does it have something to do with his current strength?¡±

    Ding!

    Apanied by a notification sound, a feminine-sounding voice resounded throughout Argentum¡¯s mind not long after as it exined, ¡°The user¡¯s thought is correct. The power behind a Power Baptism has something to do with the being¡¯s current strength. In reality, even if the being decides to postpone their Power Baptism to when they be stronger, the difficulty of a Power Baptism would still stay the same.¡±

    ¡°So you¡¯re telling me that every Power Baptism is always insanely hard in difficulty?¡± Argentum asked in return, obtaining a sinct reply from the system a few secondster.

    ¡°Yes.¡±

    ¡°¡­¡± Hearing the system¡¯s concise reply, Argentum was left at a loss for words, with a sigh leaving out of his mouth a few secondster. He then asked the system, ¡°Is it possible to help the one taking the Power Baptism while it is happening?¡±

    Ding!

    Apanied by yet another notification sound, the feminine-sounding voice of the system resounded once more, informing him that nothing was restricting him from helping out a being that was undergoing a Power Baptism. The system then added that most Power Baptisms were cleared in this fashion, with multiple beings helping out the being that was undergoing the Power Baptism through buffs and indirect attacks.

    In an instant, Argentum felt a bit more at ease, knowing that he could help Blob out in clearing his first Power Baptism. Just as he was about to tell Blob that he was going to help him out in this Power Baptism¡­

    The first blue lightning bolt had finally descended.

    Bzzt¡­crash!

    With the help of his enhanced senses, Argentum was able to make his vision feel like he was looking at everything in slow motion. Unfortunately for him, even though that was the case, the speed at which the blue lightning bolt descended was still multiple times faster than the red lightning bolt he faced up against. Seeing as he had no way to help Blob out before the lightning bolt would strike Blob, he hastily shouted, ¡°Dodge it, Blob!¡±

    Hearing his name being called, Blob instantly processed the order that was given him, maintaining eye contact with the blue lightning bolt that was hastily making its way to smite him down. Without hesitation, he activated a skill that allowed him to conjure a barrier that protected his body as he exerted his full power towards his legs, increasing his distance from where the blue lightning bolt was going to hit by a few meters in less than a second.

    Bang!

    Unfortunately for Blob, even though he acted at the very instant he had heard his creator¡¯s order and tried to dodge the bolt, he was only able to mitigate the damage he had obtained by around 60% with the barrier shattering as a result, feeling an immense amount of pain as the ground where he stood on tore apart. Due to the force behind the bolt, he was sent flying for a few meters beforending with a thud. It took him a few seconds or so for him to finally get up.

    Although Blob¡¯s current condition could be considered to be greatly injured, Argentum looked at Blob with an aura of immense excitement as he shouted, ¡°Hey, Blob! Get up! Do you feel your body bing stronger?¡±

    ¡°Huh?¡± Blob, who had just gotten up from the ground, briefly radiated an aura of confusion before noticing that something was off. Even though his body was filled to the brim with injuries, which were signified with parts of his bodycking in energy, in actuality, he felt that he had more power than ever before. He tried punching out in his currently injured state, only to find out that the force behind this casual punch was enough for him to create a strong gust of wind, surprising him.

    He also went ahead and started to dash around the area hended, finding out that he was moving a few times faster than before. Realizing what had happened to his body, he exuded an aura of immense tion as he looked at Argentum and shouted, ¡°I¡¯ve gotten stronger!¡±

    In response, Argentum let out a loud chuckle as he used his skills to heal Blob¡¯s injuries before the second lightning bolt struck down. In contrast, Argentum was d to find out that surviving the first bolt of lightning would increase the being¡¯s strength by a few times already. It was then that he understood the reasoning behind the second and third bolt being far more powerful than the first bolt. It was because with each bolt of lightning that was withstood, the greater the improvement the being would obtain.

    ¡®I wonder if the improvement in strength stays even if a being fails a bolt in the middle of the Power Baptism,¡¯ Argentum thought to himself as the second lightning bolt had finally descended.

    ¡°[Aegis of the Grand Ignis]!¡± Now knowing very well how much pain a single blue lightning bolt inflicted on him, Blob was now more prepared than before. He unhesitatingly went ahead and used the strongest defensive skill he had in his arsenal, conjuring arge shield that looked like the coat of arms of royal ns. He then moved this shield upward to cover his head, which would be the first part that would be struck by the blue lightning bolt if it came down.

    Fortunately, Argentum noticed the shield that Blob had conjured, hastily casting the strongest movement speed boosting spell he had to close the gap between him and Blob in an instant. He then extended his right palm as he shouted, ¡°[Higher Algor Magic: Aqua Burst Omega, Second Verse]!¡±

    Whoosh!

    A short instant after that, a blue ball of energy hastily made its way towards the shield before being absorbed, expanding the size of the shield by a few notches in an instant as the aura it radiated now gave off the feeling that it was imprable. And it was this moment that the shield and the second lightning bolt collided.

    Bang!

    Due to the force behind the blue lightning bolt, the shield was pushed down, hitting Blob¡¯s head in a split second. Surprisingly, even though the shield and the bolt collided, the shield had not cracked from the force at well, making Blob inwardly wonder as to what Argentum cast on the skill to make it incredibly sturdy. Alongside the thought, he went ahead and pushed on the shield with all of the strength coursing throughout his body, counteracting the force from the blue lightning bolt.

    At first, the force from the blue lightning bolt was the side that had the advantage, but gradually, with every passing second, the force from the blue lightning bolt decreased, allowing Blob to slowly be at the advantage after some time. Feeling that the strength behind the blue lightning bolt was now at a level where it could be ignored, Blob went ahead and exerted all of the force from his force towards the shield, dispersing the weak blue lightning bolt as he felt his body improving in strength.

    With Blob safely withstanding the second lightning bolt, an aura of extreme happiness radiated from both Argentum and Blob. Argentum felt immense joy since Blob was close to clearing the Power Baptism, which meant that Blob would soon step on a new level of power that would allow him to fight against Animates equally. As for Blob, he felt immense joy since to him, it meant that he would be more useful to Argentum since he now had more strength.

    ¡°Just you wait, Argentum!¡± Blob shouted with immense glee as his sense of vision was focused on Argentum. ¡°I¡¯ll make sure to clear the remaining lightning bolts with e¡ª¡±

    Bang!

    As if it was interrupting him, the third lightning bolt had now descended and struck at Blob. Fortunately, the shield that was enchanted with Argentum¡¯s spell was still over his head, allowing Blob to utilize the newly obtained strength he had obtained as he pushed on the shield. Surprisingly, even though the third lightning bolt was far stronger than the first and second lightning boltbined, Blob was able to push back the force behind the third lightning bolt and even overwhelm it. Due to such a move, the third lightning bolt was dispersed without a problem as a feeling of improvement enveloped Blob¡¯s body once more.

    ¡°Damned lightning bolt,¡± Blob said in a tone of annoyance as he ced the shield down on the ground. Just as he was about to look at Argentum once again, he noticed that Argentum was radiating an aura of extreme disbelief. Wondering why Argentum was radiating such an aura, he then asked him, ¡°What¡¯s the matter, Argentum?¡±

    Hearing his name being called, Argentum snapped back to reality as he responded to Blob¡¯s question with a stammer, saying, ¡°Y-you finished the Power Baptism¡­¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s already finished?¡± Blob asked as a response to his creator¡¯s statement, to which Argentum slowly pointed above Blob before responding with a stammer, ¡°L-look at the clouds¡­¡±

    ¡°The clouds?¡± Although he was not sure why Argentum wanted him to look up, he still did what he told, only to realize why Argentum told him to do so.

    With the third lightning bolt being withstood by Blob, there was no more point for the dark clouds to be there anymore, gradually dispersing as the blue light that radiated from the center of the dark clouds dispersed as well. After a few more seconds, the dark clouds were not there anymore, as if it was not there in the first ce.

    ¡°Huh.¡± Blob could not help but utter as he scratched his head in awkwardness, dispersing his shield a few secondster. He then slowly made his way to where Argentum was before letting out an awkwardugh. ¡°I guess¡­I finished the Power Baptism.¡±

    In response, Argentum let out an awkwardugh of his own as well before saying, ¡°I guess so.¡±

    And just like that, the first sessful Power Baptism within Argentum¡¯s band ofpanions had been done.

 Chapter 258: The Hunt Begins

    Chapter 258: The Hunt Begins

    A minute or so before Argentum and Blob decided to leave the Azure Shores to make their way towards Verdant Breeze Town.

    Within the inner depths of the me Spirit Inheritance, a humanoid made out of red energy radiated an aura of immense shock and surprise as it stood up from the chair it made with its energy. It walked around the room it was in for a short while before deciding to sit down on the chair it made once more, letting out a long sigh of wonder soon after. The being then muttered to itself, saying, ¡°Who knew Felix¡¯s prediction would actually be correct? To think that Argentum is actually going to try and learn the Lesser Origin element¡­¡±

    ¡°Does he really believe that he could learn it without a problem or does he just want to die?¡± this being continued to mutter, thinking that she might go insane if she mulled over it for a bit longer. Of course, this being was none other than Eleanor, the owner of the me Spirit Inheritance, as well as ¡®Argentum¡¯s teacher¡¯.

    Whoosh!

    A few seconds after mulling over the topic, Eleanor went ahead and conjured a huge ball of red energy before sending it towards a certain direction. It was only after a couple of minutes or so until a ball of energy of the same size came to where she was, albeit taking on a blue hue. Knowing who had conjured this ball of energy, which was now hovering in front of her, she then infused her own energy into this ball, allowing a familiar voice for her to resound throughout her mind not long after.

    ¡°So¡­what happened? Did Argentum say he was going to learn the Lesser Origin element?¡± the familiar voice asked her, taking on a masculine tone that was pleasing to hear. This voice came from none other than Felix, the owner of the Grand Blue Inheritance.

    Letting out a sigh in response to the question, Eleanor then replied, ¡°Surprisingly, yes. He admitted that he was going to learn the Lesser Origin element.¡±

    ¡°Huh?¡± Just as she was finished with her reply, Felix could not help but utter a sound of disbelief as he did not expect Argentum to admit learning such an element that easily. Feeling that the response Eleanor got from Argentum was a bit off, he then asked her, ¡°Did you cast a spell to see whether he was lying or not?¡±

    ¡°Of course. How would I forget something like that?¡± the Undying me Spirit replied in a tone that sounded she was being wronged. She then added, ¡°Just from his tone as he answered, it seemed that he was confident in learning the Lesser Origin element without a problem.¡±

    ¡°As you¡¯ve said, he was confident that he was going to seed in learning the Lesser Origin element,¡± Felix said after Eleanor was done talking. ¡°Do you think he knows about the Origin Trials?¡±

    ¡°Probably,¡± Eleanor replied concisely. ¡°If not, he wouldn¡¯t respond in that manner, don¡¯t you think?¡±

    ¡°Fair enough,¡± Felix said with a light sigh. ¡°But don¡¯t you think it¡¯s too early for a Normal-grade Pseudo-Animate like Argentum to try and clear the Origin Trials?¡±

    ¡°Of course I do. How could I not?¡± Eleanor said in a slightly worried tone. She then pondered over it for a bit, a thought that seemed to make sense forming in her mind not long after. With that in mind, she then told Felix, ¡°But now that I think about it¡­Argentum¡¯s idea to learn the Lesser Origin element early on makes sense.¡±

    ¡°In what way?¡± Felix asked as a response, to which the Undying me Spirit responded, ¡°If he learns the Lesser Origin element at his current grade, then his control over the element would be far better than those that learned the Lesser Origin element at a higher grade.¡±

    ¡°In that case, wouldn¡¯t that make him a near-invincible power?¡± Eleanor added after that, asking Felix. In response, Felix pondered over Eleanor¡¯s question and thought that it did make sense, but he still could not help but think that the chances of Argentum passing through the Origin Trials were low. With that in mind, he asked her, ¡°Can¡¯t you like dissuade him or something? You¡¯re his teacher, right?¡±

    ¡°I may be his teacher, but I won¡¯t restrict a being from achieving their dreams,¡± Eleanor said, letting out a slightly crazed chuckle. At this moment, she was quite optimistic that Argentum had the ability to learn the Lesser Origin element, even though she was against it just a while ago. She did not know what changed her opinion of Argentum in seeding, but she presumed that it was probably due to her putting herself in his shoes, allowing her to get an inkling of an idea as to what Argentum had in mind.

    ¡°Plus, he¡¯s sensible. He doesn¡¯t seem like a being that moves on impulse,¡± Eleanor added, only to remember that heshed out at her the very first time they met each other. With that in mind, she let out an awkward chuckle before saying, ¡°Well¡­a being that sometimes moves on impulse.¡±

    ¡°Are you really sure you want him to take on the path that might lead to eventual death?¡± Felix asked her one more time, but heard no response from her even after a few seconds. In the end, he could not help but let out a low sigh. A few secondster, his tone changed to that of slight curiosity as he asked her, ¡°Changing the topic, uh¡­how was it talking to Argentum?¡±

    ¡°Huh? What kind of question is that?¡± Eleanor asked with a tone of slight confusion before adding, ¡°Shouldn¡¯t you just go ahead and contact him through your own method?¡±

    ¡°Well, you know¡­he might be busy because he¡¯s preparing to learn the Lesser Origin element and all that¡­and I haven¡¯t really used something like this so¡­¡± Felix responded to her question with a slightly awkward chuckle, leading to Eleanor letting out a low sigh before saying, ¡°You do have a point there.¡±

    ¡°Fine. I¡¯ll let you know how it feels like.¡±

    ¡°First, go ahead and contact me through the method you have with Argentum.¡±

    ¡°¡­¡±

    ¡°But aren¡¯t I talking with you right now?¡±

    ¡°Exactly. That¡¯s what it feels like.¡±

    ¡°¡­¡±

    ¡°¡­tch.¡±

    ¡­

    On the other hand¡­

    In the middle of the wilderness, two Pseudo-Animates were looking at each other with an awkward aura suffusing around them, brought about by the incident that had happened just before.

    These two Pseudo-Animates were none other than Argentum and Blob. Just a while ago, Blob had sessfully finished his Power Baptism by utilizing the full extent of his strength to more or less disperse the third lightning bolt by punching it with a shield enchanted by his creator.

    The two of them looked at each other for a bit more before Argentum went ahead and took the initiative to disperse the awkward air surrounding them. As he imitated the sound of one clearing their throat, he then focused his sense of vision towards Blob before asking him, ¡°Do you mind if I look at your stats for a bit, Blob?¡±

    In response, Blob let out an inward sigh of relief as he realized that Argentum was dispersing the awkward air surrounding them. With an aura of slight happiness, he responded, ¡°Do you really have to ask me that, Argentum? Be my guest. You can check on my stats whenever you want.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m just checking your stats after you¡¯ve gone a Power Baptism, that¡¯s all,¡± Argentum said after Blob was finished responding, silentlymanding the system to bring up Blob¡¯s stats in front of his field of vision.

    Ding!

    Apanied by a notification sound, a small holographic screen appeared in front of Argentum¡¯s face, allowing him to check how much his stats had improved. Unsurprisingly, after a single skim through the numbers listed on the screen, Argentum was left at a loss for words as he pondered as to how strong Blob currently was whenpared to Animates.

    ________

    [Blob] (Level 11/40)

    Experience: 3270/16400

    Existence Level: Pseudo-Animate (Epic)

    Species: Infernal Aegis Spirit

    Power Baptism: 1

    ¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª

    [HP]: 4900/4900

    [MP]: 1200/1200

    ¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª

    Stats:

    Vitality ¨C 245 (x10)

    Strength ¨C 155 (x10)

    Defense ¨C 345 (x10)

    Agility ¨C 210 (x10)

    Intelligence ¨C 120 (x10)

    ________

    Rummaging through Aurus¡¯s memories regarding conversion factors for existence levels, it took Argentum quite a while toe to a conclusion after calcting the stats Blob currently had. He was able to calcte that the defensive ability Blob currently had was equivalent to that of an Animate at around Rank 3 or 4, though he was not sure whether that would truly apply inbat.

    As for Blob¡¯s other abilities, it was equivalent to that of a Rank 2 or 3 Animate¡­if that said Animate practiced the highest quality Tempering and Ascension skills possible. To Argentum, low-level Tempering and Ascension skills were just better than nothing. Of course, if Blob wanted to, he could fight against Rank 5 or even Rank 6 Animates without a problem, given that the skills they practiced were of a low quality.

    Closing the status screen in front of his vision not long after, Argentum could not help but look at Blob from another perspective. Not only that, but finally seeing how much strength a single Power Baptism would give him, he was also tempted to go ahead and attempt a Power Baptism right now. Fortunately, his rational side still won, making him remember the promise he made for himself that he was going to attempt it after he was finished ransacking Verdant Breeze Town.

    Scratching his head in slight awkwardness, Argentum went ahead and asked Blob, ¡°Could you take a step forward at your full power?¡±

    ¡°Hm?¡± Blob tilted his head in slight confusion, wondering why Argentum would ask him to do such a mundane thing. Nevertheless, he nodded his head in response to Argentum¡¯s request, taking a step forward as he channeled all of the power inside his body¡­

    Only to propel multiple meters forward.

    Whoosh!

    With just one casual step, Blob was able to move over a hundred meters forward, eliciting Argentum to radiate an aura ofplete shock as he realized that he had underestimated the benefits brought by a Power Baptism. On the other hand, Blob was shocked as well, noticing that the area surrounding him was now slightly different from what he was seeing before. Turning around to check where Argentum was, he was appalled to find out that Argentum was incredibly far away from him.

    Just as Blob was about to head back to where Argentum was, Argentum went ahead and utilized the strongest movement speed boosting spell he had in his arsenal, taking a few seconds or so for him to arrive in front of Blob as he radiated an aura of immense excitement.

    ¡°Blob, I have a request for you,¡± Argentum said in a cheerful tone, having a feeling that Blob would definitely be able to do it.

    ¡°What kind of request is it?¡± Blob asked, getting the feeling that the request Argentum was about to ask him would be something that he could do with his current strength.

    ¡°Utilizing the route I¡¯ve given you a few days ago, could you head to Verdant Breeze Town before the sun sets?¡± Argentum asked, looking at the position of the sun a few secondster. Noticing that the sun had already passed the peak, Argentum estimated that there were around 4 hours or so before the sun started to set.

    ¡°On second thought, head to Verdant Breeze Town before a new day starts,¡± Argentum changed his mind a few secondster, thinking that it was somewhat impossible for him to ask Blob, who was just starting to limate himself to his newly improved stats. Surprisingly, rather than feeling pressured, Blob radiated an aura of immense excitement as he replied, ¡°I¡¯ll head to Verdant Breeze Town as fast as possible! I wanna see how fast I can go!¡±

    In response, Argentum let out an awkwardugh as he hastily transformed into a speck of red sand,nding on Blob¡¯s right shoulder soon after. After making sure that Argentum was truly on his shoulder, Blob then warmed himself up by lightly stretching his body before channeling all of the strength he could muster from his body towards his legs. Soon after, Blob and Argentum were now far away from their original position, dashing towards Verdant Breeze Town at a speed unbelievable for normal Animates.

    ¡­

    And so, a few hours have passed since Argentum requested Blob to arrive at Verdant Breeze Town before the sun set. Of course, Argentum told Blob that it would be fine if they had arrived at night, but Blob was adamant that he would be able to arrive before the sun set.

    And surprisingly, they did.

    ¡°Haah¡­haah¡­¡± After undergoing a Power Baptism, the amount of stamina he had was increased tenfold, allowing him to run faster for far longer, traversing long distances in a matter of minutes. As for the number of breaks he took during this journey, it was only brought down to only a couple of breaks, with the intent of the break either being truly recuperating or fighting against beasts to increase his strength by a bit.

    Nevertheless, seeing the tall stone walls that covered the surrounding in front of them, with arge gate smack dab in the middle of the stone walls, Blob could not help but radiate an aura of happiness as he said in a panting manner, ¡°We¡¯ve¡­arrived¡­Argentum¡­phew¡­¡±

    ¡°You actually did it¡­¡± Argentum, who was still a speck of red sand, could not believe that Blob actually arrived in front of the stone walls that surrounded the town before the sun had set. In fact, Argentum looked at the position of the sun as of now and realized that there was still about half an hour before the sun would set!

    Whoosh!

    Without hesitation, Argentum went ahead and reverted to his previous form before looking at the top of the stone walls that surrounded the town. Referencing the memories Aurus had regarding the town, he knew that there were guards who would be guarding the stone walls at night. Since it was not night yet, there were no guards on the top of the walls, allowing Argentum and Blob to take a breather wherein they knew they were safe, especially Blob.

    After a couple of minutes,Argentum silently urged Blob to head towards some nearby trees, to which Blob agreed and followed Argentum. After arriving there, Blob went ahead and asked Argentum, ¡°What are we doing here?¡±

    ¡°Once the sun sets, guards will start patrolling the walls of the town we¡¯re about to enter, so it¡¯s better for us to hide from their line of sight right now,¡± Argentum responded. He then added, ¡°Do you want to be taken by them?¡±

    ¡°Is it bad if I get taken away by them?¡± Blob asked, oblivious to the rtionship between Animates and Pseudo-Animates. In response, Argentum sinctly said, ¡°Incredibly bad. That¡¯s all I¡¯ll say. Anyways, before we enter the town, make sure to morph into an incredibly small thing so we won¡¯t get caught by the Animates.¡±

    ¡°I understand,¡± Blob said as he nodded in understanding. Just as he looked at the stone walls surrounding the town, a thought surfaced in his mind. With this in mind, he turned his sense of vision to look at Argentum and ask, ¡°Now that I think about it, you haven¡¯t told me what we¡¯re going to do here. You just told me that we need to arrive here. So¡­what are we going to do here?¡±

    ¡°We¡¯re going to grab something inside this town,¡± Argentum responded in a slightly sinister tone as he softly cackled. ¡°A thing that would help me improve in strength very fast.¡±

    Recalling the item that Aurus obtained from this town in a quest, Argentum looked at the town walls with an avaricious gaze. He then told Blob the name of the item he wanted from the town.

    ¡°The Tome of the Four Elements.¡±

    ¡°Huh?¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s the item I¡¯m aiming for in this town.¡±

 Chapter 259: Operation Retrieval

    Chapter 259: Operation Retrieval

    ¡°The Tome of the Four Elements¡­¡± Blob could not help but repeat the name of the item Argentum wanted to retrieve from Verdant Breeze Town. He pondered over the name of the item for a bit, trying to link it to the idea that it was an item that was incredibly important to Argentum. But unfortunately, even after a short while, he could not corrte the two thoughts together as he had no idea what such an item had that made it important.

    With that in mind, he focused his sense of vision before going ahead and asking Argentum in a slightly curious tone, ¡°So¡­what makes this item special?¡±

    In response, Argentum went silent for a bit as he recalled all of the information Aurus had regarding the tome from his past life. After rummaging all of the rted thoughts, organizing them and processing them into a string of words that would allow Blob to understand it without much difficulty, he took in a deep breath before replying, ¡°If I were to sum it up, the Tome of the Four Elements is a book that has a lot of magic spells within. If you don¡¯t know what magic spells are, it¡¯s like the attack I use from afar or the enchantment I used on you when you were attempting the Power Baptism.¡±

    ¡°I see¡­¡± Blob said slowly as he tried to absorb the information given to him by Argentum. It took around ten seconds or so for Blob to do so, before going ahead and asking a follow-up question, saying, ¡°So¡­are the magic spells stored inside this item incredibly important?¡±

    ¡°In a way, yes,¡± Argentum radiated an aura of affirmation before going ahead and conjuring three small balls of energy around him. He made sure that these three balls wererge enough for Blob to notice, but small enough for the guards to not realize that they were in the middle of a bunch of trees that were near the walls of Verdant Breeze Town.

    Slowly bobbing up and down, the three balls radiated different auras as their colors differed from one another. A green ball, a blue ball, and a red ball signifying the Wind, Water, and Fire element respectively. With these three balls conjured, Argentum continued with his exnation as he said, ¡°So far, after being with me for quite a while, you know that I can control three elements. Wind, Water, and Fire, right?¡±

    Blob nodded as a response to his question as he said, ¡°Do the elements you control have something to do with the item you¡¯re trying to obtain?¡±

    Just as Argentum was about to answer Blob¡¯s question, Blob realized that his question was somewhat stupid as the name of the item had something to do with the elements. Barring his creator from answering his question for a while, he then followed up with another question, asking, ¡°On second thought, since the name of the item has the words ¡®Four Elements¡¯ on it, what¡¯s the fourth element?¡±

    ¡°Surprisingly, you asked two questions that would directly reveal the importance of the tome,¡± Argentum said in response as a light chuckle resounded out of him. Soon after, he imitated the sound of one clearing their throat before telling him, ¡°I¡¯ll answer your second question first. The fourth element is the Earth element, which has something to do with the ground we¡¯re standing on right now. Along with the three other elements I have control over, they make up the mostmon elements that beings in this world wield, known as the four foundational elements.¡±

    ¡°Which segues quite nicely to the first question you asked me,¡± he added soon after. He then continued, ¡°The elements I control do have something to do with the item I¡¯m trying to obtain. Normally, an item would have a lot of restrictions before it could be used to a great extent by a being. As for this Tome of the Four Elements¡­¡±

    ¡°There are no restrictions whatsoever,¡± Argentum muttered in a serious tone. ¡°Now, you might be wondering. If there are no restrictions on the item, why am I telling you that the elements I control are important?¡±

    Surprisingly, Blob interrupted him from continuing his exnation as he said, ¡°To be honest, I wasn¡¯t actually thinking about that¡­but go on.¡±

    ¡°¡­¡± Argentum was temporarily left at a loss for words as he did not expect Blob to say that, but eventually, he had regained hisposure, imitating the sound of one clearing their throat once more. Taking in another deep breath, he went back to where he left off, exining, ¡°The reason as to why I told you that the elements are important is that¡­¡±

    ¡°Only one being could be the sole owner of the tome,¡± he continued before adding, ¡°And a being that has superb understanding over the four foundational elements has a greater chance of bing the sole owner of the tome.¡±

    After he was finished saying this, he could not help but recall Aurus¡¯s memories regarding the Tome of the Four Elements. The very first memory Aurus had regarding the tome was that of a post telling everyone that someone had obtained the Tome of the Four Elements, listing the down the effects it brought to a yer.

    Due to the number of boosts and insane spells it would allow a yer to cast, multiple yers came to where the tome wasst seen, only to be decimated by the holder of the Tome of the Four Elements. Although Aurus was just an observer of the whole situation, he could not forget the stunning power and beauty of the spells cast by the holder, making him feel like the element he had control over was the true version of the element, unlike the ones cast by elementalists and mages in the game.

    After that incident, those that had the intent to hunt down the holder of the Tome of the Four Elements loss their motivation to do so, finding out that thebat power that yer had increased to a couple ranks higher its current rank due to their mastery over the four foundational elements. Since then, that holder was renowned as the Supreme Tetraelemental Archmage, with hisbat prowess even resounding throughout those at the Transcendent existence level. At the very moment the yer had broken through to the Transcendent existence level, the other Transcendent level yers were shocked to find out that he had thebat power of someone at the second or third rank already.

    With these memories lingering in his mind, Argentum could not help but be expectant of the gains he would get once he obtained the tome, knowing what was written inside the tome due to the holder from the past spreading the information after he made sure that the tome was his.

    ¡°True Element spells¡­¡± Argentum muttered as he gazed at the position of the sun, noticing that the sun was pretty close to setting. From the name itself, True Element spells were spells that allowed one to show the properties of the element they were utilizing in its purest form. Due to the purity of the elements utilized being near the peak, the efficacy and destructibility of such a spell were multiple times higher than a normal element-based spell.

    He then closed his sense of vision for a bit, trying to recall the location as to where the Tome of the Four Elements could be found. Fortunately, the holder from Aurus¡¯s past life was kind enough to tell everyone where he had found the tome, telling everyone in the yer forums that the tome could be found in a library that could be seen inside the manor of the leader of Verdant Breeze Town.

    Although it was more or less a hazy memory for the past Aurus, thanks to the Memory DLC upgrades, the rity of such memories was at an impable level that even Aurus¡¯s birth in the past life could be recalled by Argentum, down to the finest detail.

    Finally recalling all of the information regarding the location of the tome, Argentum went ahead andmanded the system to open up a map that would allow him to see the entirety of Verdant Breeze Town. A few secondster, a small holographic screen filled with multiple details appeared in front of his field of vision, prompting him to go ahead and plot out the route that they were going to take so they could enter and leave the town with the tome safely.

    Closing the screen in front of him, he then turned around to look at Blob and sent him a strand of energy filled with the route that they were going to take for this n. Surprisingly, the strand of energy also contained a title on it, prompting Blob to ask Argentum, ¡°Operation Retrieval?¡±

    ¡°Yeah,¡± Argentum nodded as he replied. ¡°That¡¯ll be the name of our operation¡­to make it sound official and cool.¡±

    ¡°¡­¡± Blob did not know what to say for a few seconds after that. Eventually, he did respond, saying, ¡°Alright, then.¡±

    After that, the two talked back and forth regarding the route that they were going to take, as well as back-up ns just in case they got caught by the leader of Verdant Breeze Town. Coincidentally, they finished resolving all of the possible holes in their ns just as the sun had already set, which meant that night was about toe.

    Utilizing his enhanced senses, Argentum went ahead and checked the top of the stone walls, letting out a sigh of relief soon after as he found out that the guards were not patrolling yet. With that in mind, he then told Blob, ¡°It¡¯s time for Operation Retrieval to start. Morph into the smallest and most inconspicuous thing you know.¡±

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    Concurrent to Blob¡¯s nod in response, the two went ahead and transformed into two small and inconspicuous items. Argentum went ahead and transformed into a small pebble that did not look off when ced on the ground. As for Blob¡­

    ¡°A red leaf?¡± Argentum could not help but ask, to which Blob replied, ¡°I haven¡¯t really morphed that much so this is the best I can do.¡±

    ¡°Fine,¡± Argentum let out a low sigh before casting movement speed boosting spells on both of them. ¡°It¡¯s many times better than you being in your original form anyway.¡±

    Swoosh! Swoosh!

    After giving a signal to Blob as to when they would start to head towards Verdant Breeze Town, the two of them went ahead and dashed at the fastest speed they could muster without breaking through the sound barrier. Although they couldn¡¯t break through the sound barrier in their original bodies, due to their bodies currently having a smaller surface area, there was a higher chance for them to actually break through and alert the guards that were just about to guard the area.

    Fortunately, no mishaps happened in their journey to Verdant Breeze Town, with the two of them safely entering through the gates of the town within ten minutes or so. Seeing that both of them had sessfully entered through the town without a problem, the two went ahead and suppressed their auras to the bare minimum as they made their way to the center of Verdant Breeze Town, the ce where the leader of the town resided.

    Due to the small size of the town, it did not take long for the two to arrive in front of the manor where the leader resided, taking around the same time it took for them to arrive at the gates. Just as they were about to ponder as to which entrance they were going to use to enter the manor, the main entrance to the manor was opened by avishly dressed woman covered in makeup, her face flushed a slight red as she walked out in a slightly funny manner.

    Oblivious to what the woman was feeling, the two of them could not help but focus their sense of visions on one another before hastily entering the manor through the main entrance. After that, Argentum went ahead and sent Blob a strand of energy that had the shortest routes towards the library inside the manor. With both of them now having the routes memorized, the two hastily made their way to the library, only taking a couple of minutes to arrive in front of what seemed to be a plethora of books.

    ¡°Holy heck,¡± Argentum could not help but say through a connection formed between him and Blob through a strand of energy. ¡°That¡¯s a lot of books.¡±

    ¡°Indeed,¡± Blob said in response, agreeing with what Argentum felt. ¡°So¡­where¡¯s that Tome of the Four Elements you were talking about?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s probably in one of the corners,¡± Argentum replied as he urged Blob to started moving through the great number of bookshelves in the library. He then added, ¡°If you want to help me out, keep your sense of vision peeled for a book that has the aura of the four elements in it.¡±

    ¡°Then again, I¡¯ve got to say, this leader has a lot of books,¡± he muttered to himself in slight wonder, recalling the background of the leader of Verdant Breeze Town. Just like Argentum, he was someone who pursued the peak of magic. Not satisfied with his current position, he needed to gain more power in order to be a City Leader, which at least had thebat power of a Rank 5 Animate. The leader of Verdant Breeze Town, knowing this very well, could not help but be depressed as he had already sapped his potential, stopping at Rank 3 Animate.

    Until¡­he found a book that seemed to be the ray of hope he needed.

    Of course, this book was none other than the Tome of the Four Elements. After buying it, he skimmed through it and pondered over it, surprised that his stagnant strength had increased quite a bit after just a few minutes of contemtion. With that in mind, he nned that he would quit his position of being the leader of Verdant Breeze Town after some time and fully focus on learning the entirety of the Tome of the Four Elements.

    Unfortunately for him, Argentum was about to grab it first.

    ¡°Where could that tome be?¡± Argentum said in a tone of slight annoyance as he had already searched through the library a few times. It was then that he realized that Blob was not by his side anymore, prompting him to head to where he was.

    ¡°You should have told me you were heading to another part of the library,¡± Argentum muttered in a slightly furious tone as he had finally found where Blob was. ¡°What if you get caught by the lea¡ª¡±

    Just as he was about to berate Blob for separating from him, Argentum¡¯s senses could not help but pick up the aura of four elements that seemed to harmonize with one another. Following where the aura came, his sense of vision eventually met up with a book that looked slightly tattered. On the center of its front cover were four crystals that were colored green, blue, red, and brown respectively.

    Surprisingly, Blob was intently looking at this book, only realizing that Argentum was beside him after a minute or so. Letting out a light chuckle, he focused his sense of vision on him and said, ¡°I guess this is the item you were looking for?¡±

    ¡°Yeah¡­¡± Argentum said slowly in a tone of disbelief. He had to go through the entirety of the library a few times, only to end up finding nothing. But Blob only had to separate ways for him for a bit and he already found the tome?

    ¡°Why do I feel like luck is shining on Blob and not me?¡±

    ¡ª¡ª¨C

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 Chapter 260: A Race Against Time

    Chapter 260: A Race Against Time

    Nevertheless, even though he was somewhat jealous of Blob¡¯s luck in finding the Tome of the Four Elements, since it had already been found, there was no point in moping around the hope that he should have found it first anymore. A few secondster, Argentum went ahead and conjured a tendril of energy before extending it towards the tome. He then looped this tendril around the tome tightly before going ahead and slowly pulling it out of the bookshelf that it was on, making sure to not create a lot of sound from the pulling.

    Eventually, he was able to fully pull the tome out of the bookshelf that it was stored in, eliciting both Blob and Argentum to radiate auras of excitement since the item was now in their hands. Fortunately, just as they were about to release this aura even further, both of them realized that they were still in a part of the territory where it would be easy for them to be captured, prompting them to suppress their happiness to the greatest extent. With that being done, Argentum moved the tome to the front of his vision before softlymanding the system, ¡°System, please keep this item inside the inventory.¡±

    It had been quite a while since Argentum had used the inventory. The only items in there were the weapons and armor of the Animates he had killed on the way to the Inferno ins back then, taking up only a bit of the space in the inventory. As for something small like a book being ced inside in the inventory, it was akin to child¡¯s y¡­only that it wasn¡¯t at all.

    Ding!

    As a notification sound resounded throughout Argentum¡¯s mind, the tome he held with his tendril gradually became translucent, eventually reaching the point that it was near transparent. Unfortunately, just as it was about to look like it had dissipated into thin air, the tome became opaque again, returning to Argentum¡¯s tendril in its original form as a small screen appeared in front of Argentum¡¯s field of vision.

    ¡°The item cannot be stored because it¡¯s not owned by the user?¡± Argentum read the words that were on the screen out loud in a questioning tone, wondering what kind of conditions an item would need to be considered owned by the user. He knew that the weapons and armor he had retrieved from the Animates were owned by them, but why was it possible for him to hide their items inside his inventory without a problem?

    After pondering over it for a bit, he eventually thought that there was no point in trying to find another way to hide it. Of course, he also thought about making the tome his sole possession right now as he mulled over the multiple methods he could use, but he concluded that there was a definite chance that the two of them would be caught by the leader of Verdant Breeze Town and perhaps be used as an item of sorts somewhere.

    The reason as to why that would be the case is that in Aurus¡¯s memories, whenever the holder of the Tome of the Four Elements tried to utilize the tome, the aura of the four elements would appear in a certain radius around the holder, being easily perceived even from a few kilometers away from the holder. With that in mind, Argentum could not help but let out a sigh of slight annoyance as he looked at Blob and sent him a strand of energy, forming a mental connection with him.

    ¡°Blob, it seems we¡¯re going to have to use one of our back-up ns,¡± Argentum said through the connection, to which Blob replied with a question, saying, ¡°Which one?¡±

    ¡°That n wherein the condition for usage is the fact that I can¡¯t hide the item we¡¯ve just retrieved properly,¡± he replied to Blob¡¯s query soon after. In response, Blob radiated an aura of contemtion for a short bit before asking Argentum, ¡°Operation EA-FAP?¡±

    ¡°¡­¡± Hearing the name of the operation mentioned by Blob, Argentum was left at a loss for words as he did not expect to hear ite from Blob himself. Although he did tell Blob that he could use the acronym without any worry, it was still slightly jarring to hear it from somewhere that radiated an innocent aura.

    Taking in a deep breath topose himself, he soon uttered, ¡°Although the full name is Operation Escape Area ¨C Fast As Possible, sure. Let¡¯s go with that.¡±

    After they were finished talking, the two of them went ahead and moved towards a certain part of the library. As they had arrived in front of that certain part, the two of them could not help but let out sighs of relief as they found out that their n had a good chance of working if no mishaps happened. The certain part of the library they had in mind was none other than¡­the windows.

    Seeing that the window of the library was opened slightly, they focused their senses of vision on each other before establishing another mental connection. This time, it was Blob who took the initiative to start the conversation.

    ¡°So¡­who¡¯s gonna through the window first?¡± he asked as he thought about the order in which they would escape through the window. Unexpectedly, Argentum replied to his question without hesitation as he told him, ¡°You go escape through the window first.¡±

    ¡°Me?¡± Blob could not believe what he was hearing. Back when they were outside the walls of Verdant Breeze Town, the two of them had unanimously agreed that Argentum would be the first one to escape through the window, with Blobing soon after. Just as Blob was about to ask Argentum why, Argentum answered his question as if he was reading his mind, saying, ¡°With you down there, there¡¯ll be a higher chance of the tomending on the ground safely.¡±

    He then added, ¡°Just before you think that it¡¯ll be the same if it was me who went down first, remember that your reflexes are now faster than mine after undergoing through your first Power Baptism.¡±

    ¡°Ah, right.¡± As he listened to Argentum¡¯s exnation, Blob thought that it made sense, inwardly letting out an awkward chuckle as the thought of him passing his first Power Baptism slipped through his mind. While he inwardly thanked Argentum for reminding him that he had undergone a Power Baptism, Blob took onest look at Argentum before saying, ¡°Alright, then. Guess I¡¯m gonna go head out first.¡±

    Whoosh!

    And just like that, with quick speeds, Blob jumped off of the small opening through the window, gradually descending as he had taken the shape of a leaf. While Blob was on his way tonding on the ground safely, Argentum went ahead and prepared his descent to the ground as well, wondering if he should morph into another form wherein the tome would be safe and sound.

    At first, he was against the thought as that would reveal himself to quite a lot of Animates. But then, he remembered that the manor was covered with a lot of tall trees in its perimeter, which the two of them had to cross before actually entering the manor. Calcting the height of the trees, as well as the optimal angle to jump off of the window, his decision was soon changed to that which favored the morphing of his body into a better form.

    Swoosh!

    With the tendril he had conjured still looped tightly around the tome, Argentum went ahead and transformed into another shape that had an incrediblyrge surface area but was more or less paper-thin in terms of thickness. Soon after, the shape that Argentum took started to warp inward, forming four corners that gripped tightly onto the corners of the tome.

    And just like that, Argentum had transformed into a makeshift parachute in order for the tome¡¯s falling speed to be greatly lessened.

    Coincidentally, just as Argentum was finished transforming into a makeshift parachute, Blob had finallynded on the grassy grounds that surrounded the manor. With the help of his enhanced senses, Argentum was able to notice that Blob had alreadynded, prompting him to utilize the movement of the wind that appeared at the floor he was at before starting to fall.

    Kwoosh!

    In an instant, Argentum¡¯s form had warped greatly asrge amounts of air were trapped under him, reducing the tome and his falling speed to a level where it wasparable to Blob¡¯s falling speed as a leaf. As he gradually descending along with the tome, he utilized his senses to check if any beings noticed him along the way, letting out a sigh of relief soon after as he found out that none had seen him or the tome along the path of his descent.

    After a couple of minutes or so, Argentum had finallynded on the ground with the tome, with Blob supporting the tome while Argentum reverted to his previous form of being an inconspicuous pebble.

    ¡°With the two of us now out of the manor, you could say that we just have to make sure that we hide from the Animates that we pass along the streets and we¡¯ll be safe in no time,¡± Argentum said in a slightly excited tone to Blob through a strand of energy. In response, Blob said in an eager tone, ¡°Then, what are we waiting for? Let¡¯s try and leave this ce as fast as possible!¡±

    And so, the two of them went ahead and held the tome with tendrils in a manner that did not look conspicuous as all, making sure that the side of the tome that had the four crystals would not face the Animates that they came across. Under the shadow of the night, even though there were a few spots that were well-lit in town, the two of them had high hopes that they were going to escape this town without a problem.

    ¡°Make sure to head towards the areas that aren¡¯t well-lit, okay?¡± Argentum reminded Blob with a strand of energy as they prepared to move farther away from the manor through the other exit. Radiating an aura of affirmation, Blob replied, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Argentum! With the route you¡¯ve given me, how would I not move through the dark areas?¡±

    Swoosh!

    A few secondster, the two of them started to make their way outside the manor, moving at a speed that was around three-fourths of Argentum¡¯s peak as that speed wasfortable enough for them to maneuver the streets that cluttered the town even if they made a split-second decision.

    Whoosh!

    Passing through a few bushes along the way, Argentum and Blob had eventually gotten out of the manor within the span of a few minutes, both of them radiating suppressed auras of immense excitement as they had finally gotten out of what seemed to be the most dangerous part of the n.

    Naturally, the two of them looked at the route they¡¯ve taken, making sure that no one was following them as they took the tome farther away from the manor. With every passing minute that they did not see anyone tailing them, the confidence they had in the n seeding gradually shot up as their speeds picked up its pace as well. At this moment, the speed at which they were moving made the tome look like a stray cat that was running away from something to the Animates.

    ¡°We¡¯re getting closer!¡± Argentum could not help but say in a hushed yet excited voice to Argentum, making sure that they were the only ones who could hear it. Feeling that the excitement radiating from his creator felt more or less solid, Blob could not help but say with glee, ¡°I know! Just a few more minutes and we¡¯ll eventually reach the exit!¡±

    Just as their happiness were at their zeniths¡­

    Weenngggg¡­!

    All of a sudden, the tome they were holding tightly radiated a bright red glow, instantly prompting the two to stop in their tracks before instantly making a detour, heading towards a part of the streets that wasn¡¯t as popted. As they were heading towards that area, the two of them were filled with immense fear, wondering why the tome started to glow brightly.

    Whoosh!

    Fortunately, the two of them were about to find out why it had done so, with the bright red glow surrounding the tome eventually heading towards a certain direction. Of course, with such a phenomenon happening, Argentum utilized his abilities to the fullest as his enhanced vision tracked every move and turn the glow made.

    Naturally, with his mastery over his enhanced vision, he was able to track where the bright red glow had arrived at the very end, his whole being radiating an immense aura of fear as he said to Blob in a hushed yet afraid voice, ¡°Blob¡­it seems that we have a problem.¡±

    ¡°Eh? What kind of problem?¡± Blob could not help but ask, feeling afraid himself after being in contact with Argentum¡¯s aura. Without dy, Argentum exined in a slightly stammering manner, ¡°The bright red glow¡­of the tome¡­d-do you know where it stopped¡­?¡±

    ¡°Where¡­?¡± With the fear in him building up, Blob felt that it was hard for him to speak up, only being able to squeeze out one word from the fear he felt. At the moment Argentum answered his question, the fear brewing within Blob¡¯s body had reached a zenith, making him feel like the best choice was to run away as fast as possible.

    Taking in a deep breath to calm himself down, Argentum replied¡­

    ¡°¡­the manor.¡±

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    Not long after that, the two of them unhesitatingly reverted to their original forms, not caring whether or not they were seen by the Animates anymore. The most important thing in their minds right now was to escape from the clutches of the manor with the Tome of the Four Elements!

    ¡°[Higher Zephyr Magic: Zephyr Magna eliaris]!¡±

    ¡°[Higher Ignis Magic: Ignis Fervor Maxima]!¡±

    ¡°[Blessing of the Infernal Aegis]!¡±

    ¡°[Gift of the Divine me]!¡±

    Casting all of the spells they had in their arsenal that affected the both of them when it came to increasing their stats within a few seconds, the two of them went ahead and dashed towards the exit of the Verdant Breeze Town at their maximum speeds, bringing along strong winds as Argentum gripped tightly on the Tome of the Four Elements.

    Amidst their dash, a loud and smooth yet infuriated voice resounded throughout the slightly dim town, alerting the guards that were on top of the walls, as well as the guards that patrolled through the streets.

    ¡°Guards, someone has taken something precious from my manor!¡± the voice shouted. ¡°Make sure to find them as fast as possible!¡±

    ¡°And if they resist¡­¡±

    ¡°¡­kill them!¡±

    ¡ª¡ª¨C

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 Chapter 261: Operation Retaliation

    Chapter 261: Operation Retaliation

    Verdant Breeze Manor, just a few minutes ago.

    Inside one of the secluded rooms that could be found on the first floor of the manor, one would be able to find a well-dressed man holding a sk with his left hand while his right hand gripped onto a pen, jotting down notes rted to the sk on his left. This man radiated a magnanimous aura that had hints of arrogance within, making anyone that looked at him feel like there was a greater motive to all of his movements.

    Not only that, but from time to time, one could also see a few energy particles from the foundational elements lingering around his body, allowing one to know that this person was well-versed in the usage of element-based spells. Add on the fact that he was more or less the only person in the manor with authority, this man was none other than the leader of Verdant Breeze Town, who was also the former keeper of the Tome of the Four Elements.

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡± At this moment, the man raised the sk he was holding, allowing light from a nearby candle to shine on it as the contents inside started to emanate a faint red aura. Noticing this, the man let out a slightly somber sigh as he started to jot down the urrence that he had to just happen. ¡°Although the contents are now more biased towards the Fire element, it¡¯s still not at a level where it would be enough for me to have heightened perception towards the Fire element.¡±

    ¡°I wonder what this concoction iscking?¡± he muttered to himself in a questioning tone not long after as he ced the sk down on a nearby desk, cing it beside three other sks wherein its contents were a shade of blue, green, and brown respectively. Grabbing a nearby chair, he ced it in front of the table where his notes were ced, scratching his head every once in a while as he tried to think up of ways wherein he could improve the concoctions.

    Naturally, these concoctions had something to do with the Tome of the Four Elements. After buying it from someone who did not notice the true value of the tome they sold, he went ahead and tried to learn the contents within, only to find out that his perception regarding the elements was not enough to be its sole owner. With that in mind, he put in most of his time on creating elixirs or medicine that would allow him to increase his perception over the elements, gaining small sess in it.

    ¡°Most of the feelings I¡¯ve obtained from the elements are already there,¡± he muttered a couple of minutester as he let out yet another somber sigh. Gazing at the notes he had written regarding the multiple attempts andbinations he had made, a random thought surfaced in his mind all of a sudden. Surprisingly, this thought resonated with his goal of creating concoctions, prompting him to abruptly stand up as he asked himself in a curious tone, ¡°Is it because these concoctionsck the feeling of vitality? Is that the main problem?¡±

    Soon after, he turned around to head towards the door that led out of his room as a slightly excited expression crept across his face. Thinking about the chances of sessfully increasing his perception with the addition of such an element, he could not help but say, ¡°I presume that with such an element added to the concoctions, I have a feeling that it might just work!¡±

    Weeenngggg¡­.!

    Unfortunately for him, just as he was about to leave the room he was in, a sound that was incredibly familiar to him resounded throughout his mind, associating it with a certain item as his face paled in response.

    ¡°The tome!¡± he shouted in a fearful tone. At the very instant he bought that tome from that seller, he made sure to have a system around the tome in ce that would alert him whenever one stole the tome from his manor. Due to the small amount of money he had left at that time, the alert system he installed on the tome would only take effect after the tome was already a certain proximity away from where he was. Who thought that his alert system would actually activate right now?

    Swoosh!

    Activating a few spells he had in his arsenal, the speed at which he moved had increased by a significant degree as he made his way to the library in his manor on the second floor. Without dy, he made his way towards the bookshelf wherein he ced the tome, only to find that it was truly gone. With an afraid expression still on his face, he went ahead and used the strongest reconnaissance spell he had in his arsenal as a Rank 3 mage.

    ¡°No traces at all¡­¡± he muttered with an expression that seemed to say that without the tome, there was no point in living. He then pondered over the possible suspects that could have stolen the tome, muttering, ¡°Only a highly ranked assassin would be able to steal the tome from this manor with only the alert system activating. Maybe a highly ranked thief would be able to do as well¡­¡±

    ¡°But there are no such people like that in this town,¡± he added amid his mulling. ¡°If that¡¯s the case, then who stole the tome from the manor without me knowing?¡±

    Weeennnggg¡­!

    Coincidentally, it was at this moment that he heard that familiar sound once more, noticing that a bright red glow was radiating out of one of the windows in the library. Knowing what that red glow meant, the expression on the man¡¯s face took a great turn as it turned sinister. Without hesitation, he opened one of the windows and jumped down from it,nding just a few meters away from where the bright red glow originated.

    Slightly far away from him was a ball of red energy that emitted a bright red glow. As he stared at it for a bit, he muttered, ¡°Since this ball of red energy is here, that means there¡¯s still a chance for me to retrieve the tome from the one that stole it!¡±

    In an instant, he took in a deep breath before applying magic on his throat. He then shouted in an infuriated tone, ¡°Guards, someone has taken something precious from my manor! Make sure to find them as fast as possible!¡±

    ¡°If they resist, you have my permission to kill them!¡±

    ¡­

    While that was happening, Argentum and Blob unhesitatingly went ahead and utilized all of the energy inside their body to make sure they could run away as fast as possible.

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    Unfortunately for them, along the way, they identally came across a few of the beings that lived inside the town, clearly seeing the two as they ran past them at breakneck speeds. Of course, with the lives of the beings only consisting of the town, most of them could not help but scream in fear as they shouted, ¡°Ghosts! There are ghosts inside this town! Glowing ghosts!¡±

    ¡°Hmm?¡± One of the guards, that was notified of what had happened in town by the voice of the leader, could not help but perk up his ears as he heard the citizens scream all of a sudden. Turning around to head towards them as fast as possible, he then went ahead and quelled the fear of the citizens as he asked one of them, ¡°Ghosts? What did you see?¡±

    ¡°I-I don¡¯t know¡­¡± the citizen responded in a stuttering manner, unsure whether what she had seen was true. Nevertheless, since she knew that the guards were in this town to maintain peace and order, she still tried to piece the sight she saw just a while ago to the guard. In response, the guard could not help but ponder over her statement for a bit, grabbing a certain object from his pocket not long after before infusing a bit of his energy in it.

    He then muttered to the object, ¡°Leader of Team A speaking to the Verdant Breeze Leader. A few citizens have noticed two silhouettes that were of red and green color respectively. I would like to ask the Verdant Breeze Leader if these two silhouettes have something to do with the announcement you said earlier.¡±

    ¡°Oh? I think they¡¯re not rted at all¡­¡± Without dy, the voice of the town¡¯s leader resounded from the object soon after, which could only be heard by the guard that he was talking to. Just as the town¡¯s leader was about to dismiss the idea that these two silhouettes had something to do with his dilemma, he could not help but have a hunch that there was a rtion to them.

    He then briefly contemted over the right string of words to tell the guard that was talking to him, eventually saying, ¡°Ask the citizens if they saw the silhouettes with a brown blur apanying them. If they do, tell the guards at the exit to close the gates while the other guard teams should make haste to intercept the two as fast as possible.¡±

    ¡°Understood,¡± the guard responded not long after before looking at the citizens who screamed out a while ago. Without hesitation, he then asked them, ¡°Did you any of you see a brown blur apanying the two ghosts you saw a while ago?¡±

    At first, there was no response from the citizens, with all of them looking at each other with a gaze that seemed to say ¡®It was too fast that we couldn¡¯t see anything at all.¡¯ Fortunately for the guard, one of the citizens raised their hands as a hoarse voice came out of that citizen¡¯s mouth. This citizen looked like he was in his sixties or so, yet the aura he radiated did not pale inparison to that of the guards, looking at the guard as he said with a tone of confidence, ¡°Boy, I can tell you without a doubt that there was a brown blur apanying them.¡±

    He then added, ¡°I may be old, but my eyesight is still acute.¡±

    In response, the guard beamed as he looked at the old man, saying, ¡°Thank you, sir, for helping us guards out. We¡¯ll tell the town leader of your contributions after we have resolved the problem.¡±

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    After that, the guard went ahead and utilized all of the strength in his body and channeled it towards his legs, dashing towards the direction that led to one of the exit gates that was closest in proximity to where he currently was. In his mind, he concluded that these silhouettes would undoubtedly head towards that gate if they wanted to exit the town as fast as possible from their current position.

    As he dashed towards the exit, he then pulled out another object that looked simr to the one he had before, but had a slightly cruder design. Infusing more of his energy into this object, he then shouted, ¡°Team A, Team B, Team C, Team D, Patrol Team, listen up!¡±

    ¡°The leader has told me that two silhouettes have the item that was stolen from him,¡± he continued. ¡°Patrol Team, close Gate C as fast as possible! As for the other teams, head towards Gate C!¡±

    ¡°We¡¯re going to intercept them!¡±

    ¡­

    A couple of minutes have passed since Argentum and Blob reverted to their original forms, going all out to head out of Verdant Breeze Town as fast as possible. At this moment, utilizing the route they had nned out before entering the town, they calcted that there was about a kilometer or so of distance left that separated them from the line between captivity and freedom.

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡± While they were running, Argentum could not help but find the current scene a bit peculiar. Using his enhanced senses to their full potential, he went ahead and looked at the surroundings, not seeing any movement from the town that was rted to them at all. With that in mind, he could not help but focus his sense of vision beside him and ask, ¡°Blob, do you think they¡¯ve caught onto what we¡¯re doing?¡±

    ¡°No idea,¡± Blob replied as his sense of vision was focused on what was in front of them. Nevertheless, that did not stop him from replying, saying, ¡°This is the first time I¡¯ve done something like this so I truly have no clue.¡±

    ¡°Ah, right,¡± Argentum muttered in response to Blob¡¯s statement, only remembering now that Blob was not well-versed with how Animates acted, unlike him, who was an Animate in his previous life¡­or well, his original body was. A few secondster, he said to Blob, ¡°Well, if that¡¯s the case, all I¡¯ll say is that you should make sure to be as vignt as possible. We mighte across some trouble before we could exit the town.¡±

    ¡°Got it.¡± With Blob responding to his creator¡¯s warning filled with concern, the two of them continued on their way towards the closest exit gate in proximity, with both of them casting their skills once more to replenish the boost they had.

    Eventually, only a few hundred meters remained between the two and the exit gate they were heading towards, auras of immense happiness radiated from the two of them as the gate was now in their field of vision.

    ¡°We¡¯re going to make it!¡± Argentum shouted in happiness, only for him to take back his words as a loud and deep creaking sound resounded from the gates. As they looked at the gates, they noticed that the opening in between the two doors started to gradually be smaller, prompting Argentum to instead shout, ¡°Run faster!¡±

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    Just as they were about to pick up their pace in order to make sure that they would get past the gate before it was fully closed, multiple silhouettes went ahead and blocked their path of escape, leaving Argentum and Blob with no choice but to jump over them before continuing with their dash to their exit.

    Unfortunately for them, another group of silhouettes went ahead and barred them from continuing any further. With the amount of momentum they had not being enough to jump over all of them, the two of them had no choice but to stop where they were, seeing that there were no alleyways or any ce that they could jump on so they could continue with their dash.

    ¡°Stop right where you are,¡± one of the silhouettes shouted towards the two of them, taking a few steps forward to reveal himself to both Argentum and Blob. The silhouette wore a uniform that exuded a feeling of ferocity and tenacity. Then again, the other silhouettes wore the same uniform as well, radiating a unified aura that exuded ferocity and tenacity.

    Clearing his throat, the silhouette that stepped forward continued with his warning, saying to both Argentum and Blob, ¡°Please give back the town¡¯s leader item. If you give it back, we will allow you two to leave without being hindered.¡±

    ¡°The town leader¡¯s item?¡± Argentum could not help but repeat the silhouette¡¯s words, radiating an aura that was akin to a mocking sneer. Naturally, he corrted the item that they were talking about was the Tome of the Four Elements. Unfortunately, that item was something Argentum needed so he would not stop at anything to not give it back.

    Sending a strand of energy to Blob with a message contained in it, Argentum went and responded in a haughty tone, ¡°Why should we? Do you have any proof that your town leader did not steal it from another person?¡±

    ¡°Well uh¡­¡± Not expecting such a response, the silhouette hemmed and hawed for a bit, only for him to receive a solid punch on his face before he was sent flying soon after. On the other hand, the one that punched at the silhouette blew on his fiery red fist. From the color of the fist, it was natural to think that Argentum told Blob to punch the silhouette to show that they weren¡¯t afraid of them.

    In response, one of the other silhouettes shouted, ¡°To punch one of the esteemed guards¡­everyone! Whatever it takes, make sure to not let them escape!¡±

    Hearing the guard¡¯s words, Argentum let out a cackle as he saw the guards start to dash at him. With that happening, he looked at Blob, who was a few meters away from him and said, ¡°Blob, it seems we have to change our ns once more.¡±

    ¡°Initiate¡­¡±

    ¡°Operation Retaliation.¡±

    ¡ª¡ª¨C

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 Chapter 262: Unexpectedly Easy

    Chapter 262: Unexpectedly Easy

    ¡°Activate your status boosting spells, Blob!¡± Since they were now forced into a situation where their only choice was to fight their way through the guards to exit the town, Argentum went ahead andmanded Blob. ¡°Stall them for a bit! I need to create some space to effectively support you!¡±

    ¡°You got it, Argentum!¡± Blob replied not a secondter, radiating a fiery red aura that was far stronger than what he originally had, which attracted the attention of the guards as they felt that they could not take their eyes off of him. As for Argentum, even though he also had the urge to not take his eyes away from Blob, due to their rtionship, he was able to resist most of the urge as he swerved his way through the group of distracted guards that were nearer to the gate.

    While he was doing just that, he could not help but ponder over what had happened just a while ago. The thought that was in his mind was the conversation he and the guard had, feeling that he could have made a peaceful reconciliation with the guards, which would allow them to leave without needing to put a fight. Nevertheless, as he thought about that second choice, he could not help but think that something was affecting him in the background, as if it was telling him that fighting is always the viable option against enemies.

    ¡°[Infernal Sonata]!¡± Noticing that Argentum had finally escaped the encirclement of guards they were surrounded with just some time ago, Blob went ahead and deactivated the aura that he was radiating, applying a confused state on all of the guards as he went ahead and activated the strongest status boosting skill he had in his arsenal.

    Whoosh!

    With greater power circting throughout his body, he went ahead and dashed towards the closest guard in his proximity, gripping on the man¡¯s uniform tightly not an instantter. In response, the guard, who had just snapped back to reality, felt immense fear as he realized that one of the people that they were about to capture was now grabbing on his uniform with killing intent.

    Just as Blob had clenched his free hand into a fist, about to punch the guard¡¯s face into oblivion, Argentum, who went ahead and activated his status boosting skills in the meantime, sent a strand of energy with a message to Blob.

    ¡°We¡¯re not here to kill them!¡± was what the strand of energy contained. ¡°Just make sure that they¡¯re as far from the exit gate as possible!¡±

    Not even a split-secondter, another strand of energy entered Blob¡¯s mind, telling him, ¡°There¡¯s no need for us to kill these beings that are just doing their duty!¡±

    In response, Blob let out an inward sigh of slight disappointment as he went ahead and raised the guard in the air while hastily putting his clenched fist down. Wondering what this person was about to do, the guard btedly realized what was happening to him as he was flung at breakneck speeds with a single throw, crashing through multiple houses with loud bangs.

    Bang! Bang! Bang!

    Seeing what had just happened, the guards were left at a loss for words as they froze in ce. Even though their weapons were in a position that they could attack the person that just threw one of theirrades, they could not bring themselves to do just that, feeling an immense sense of fear from the thought of being thrown.

    On the other hand, Argentum let out a sigh of relief as he saw Blob throw the guard instead of punching the guard into a pulp. As he continued to look at the expressions and auras of the guards surrounding hispanion, he could not help but imitate the sound of a being clicking their tongue as he muttered, ¡°I¡¯ve got to say though.¡±

    ¡°These guards are actually weaker than I thought.¡±

    With Blob¡¯s aura as a point of reference, Argentum was able to utilize his enhanced senses and deduce that the strength these guards had was at most at the level of a Rank 1 Animate that had been at that level for a decent amount of time. The strongest amongst these guards were those that radiated the aura of a Rank 1 Animate at their peak, with some even giving off an aura that made him feel like they were about to ascend to a Rank 2 ss at any time.

    Nevertheless, even if these guards were Rank 2, Argentum was certain that Blob would still be able to triumph over them with sheer power, already undergoing one Power Baptism. With that in mind, he could not help but mutter to himself, ¡°I might just be looking at this from the wrong angle. A town wouldn¡¯t have such high strength unless it was ced in a special location.¡±

    With a light chuckle, he added, ¡°I guess Blob is just too strong for them to handle.¡±

    Whoosh! Bang! Whoosh! Bang!

    Since the guards did not move from their ces, to Blob, they looked like they were chickens that were ready to be beheaded. Without hesitation, he went ahead and grabbed a few nearby guards by the cors of the uniform before flinging them away from their current position, remembering themand that was given to him by Argentum through the strand of energy.

    Fortunately, after around 5 of theirrades were thrown at random directions by Blob, the guards finally realized that they needed to make a move if they did not want to end up in the same fate as their thrownrades, rushing towards Blob without hesitation as they gripped on their weapons tightly while shouting.

    Just as Blob was about to go ahead and retaliate against their moves as he radiated an aura filled with tion, he received a strand of energy filled with a message all of a sudden, prompting to hastily read it and let out a sigh of indignation while scratching his head.

    He then said loudly, ¡°Alright, Argentum. Give it your best shot.¡±

    ¡°Hehe, thanks!¡± Argentum chortled as he replied, prompting the guards that were dashing towards Blob to take a nce at him. It was then that they noticed that a green ball filled with an intent of destruction was conjured over Argentum¡¯s palm, making them freeze up as one thought simultaneously entered their minds.

    ¡°We¡¯re up against a mage! We¡¯re so dead!¡±

    To these guards, people that could cast magic spells were considered as mages. Even if they could only cast basic spells or incredibly esoteric spells, to them, these spells brought forth a level of might that could only be emted if ten or a hundred of them attacked at once. With that in mind, the directions their weapons were pointing at had abruptly changed in the opposite direction, wanting to run away from Blob.

    Unfortunately for them, with the help of a few auxiliary spells, the ball of wind that Argentum conjured had arrived in front of them in an instant, sending around ten or so people flying at once. After a few seconds, these guardsnded on random locations with a thud and a pained groan. Some were fortunate tond on the asphalt that covered the roads, while somended on the roofs of houses, crashing through multiple floors beforending on cold hard ground.

    And just like that, the guards were at a loss on what to do once again. At first, they thought that the person covered in fiery red energy was the only being they had to worry about since the person covered in green energy did not radiate that much strength. But lo and behold, the person covered in green energy revealed that they could actually cast spells, cing him at the same level of strength with the one covered in red energy.

    Right now, all of the guards that were still standing right now looked at each other and had the same thought in their minds. If it weren¡¯t for their jobs, they would have definitely allowed the two people to escape scot-free. They would not hesitate to turn a blind eye to these two if they did not remember the possible reaction of the leader of the town.

    Indeed, the only thing that was hindering them from doing so was the leader of the town. In their minds, they could still vividly remember what he had done whenever the guards had failed in their missions, with the most lenient punishment being their own death. As for the more severe punishments¡­it was better left unsaid.

    As for Argentum and Blob, they could not help but look at each other as they noticed that these guards did not move once more as cold sweat dripped down their foreheads. Although Blob was eager to send these vulnerable guards flying to allow them to escape, Argentum gave Blob a gaze filled with killing intent, prompting Blob to suppress his urges.

    Since he could not do what he wanted to do, Blob went ahead and sent a strand of energy towards Argentum to strike up a conversation, saying, ¡°So¡­what now?¡±

    ¡°Well, we could go ahead and leave these guards here,¡± Argentum said in response to Blob¡¯s question before adding, ¡°But I have a feeling that waiting here for a bit longer would lead to some satisfying and fruitful results.¡±

    ¡°To be honest, same,¡± Blob said, letting out a chuckle through his reply as his aura remained unchanged. ¡°Should I go ahead and wake them up from their stupor again?¡±

    ¡°No need,¡± Argentum replied to Blob¡¯s question as his enhanced vision caught a glimpse of an entity that wore the same uniform as the people that were surrounding Blob. Surprisingly, this entity radiated an aura that was far superior to the guards near them, making Argentum feel that this being could put up a fight with Blob.

    ¡°[Higher Zephyr Magic: Zephyr Burst Omega, Second Verse].¡±

    ¡°[Higher Ignis Magic: Ignis Burst Omega, Second Verse].¡±

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    While the entity gradually made their way to where they were, Argentum went ahead and cast a few buffs onto Blob, who could not help but look back at Argentum with a confused expression. In response, Argentum sent a strand of energy to him, saying, ¡°There¡¯s an Animateing closer that¡¯s wearing the same uniform as the others. In order for the current situation to stay as is, before that being could finish what they have to say¡­¡±

    ¡°Send them flying with a hard punch.¡±

    ¡°Hehehe.¡± Blob chuckled in response to Argentum¡¯smand, muttering soon after, ¡°Roger that.¡±

    ¡­

    Eventually, the entity that was making its way to where they were had finally arrived, prompting the other guards to look at the guard that had just arrived with gazes filled with regret. On the other hand, the newly arrived guard looked at the current situation with an extremely bemused expression, wondering what made the guards freeze up in ce.

    He looked at the two beings that stood out from the rest, with each of them covered in green and red energy respectively. Then again, although these two beings were covered in energy, the aura they radiated was at a level that did not seem to be on par with his, concluding that they needed their morale to be raised.

    Taking in a deep breath, the new guard shouted, ¡°Everyone, are you going to let these two people get away with what they have just done?¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re the guards of Verdant Breeze Town, for heaven¡¯s sake!¡± the guard continued, somewhat arousing the will to fight within the other guards. Seeing that there was a slight effect, the guard went on with his words of motivation, saying, ¡°Do you really want to disappoint your family with your current looks? Do you really want the town leader to cast us away for others?¡±

    ¡°If so, raise your weapons and fight ba¡ª!¡±

    Bang!

    Just as the newly arrived guard was about to finish with his motivational speech, it was unfortunately cut off short as Blob went ahead and dashed towards him before he could even notice, clenching his right fist before sending it flying towards the guard¡¯s face.

    Due to the guard¡¯s position, as well as the strength Blob put in his punch, the guard was sent flying through the whole street before crashing into a house made out of bricks¡­then another one¡­and another one¡­only to stop until about 7 houses had a hole through their walls thanks to this newly arrived guard.

    It was then that the other guards found out that these two people were actually suppressing their powers to a great extent, giving off the feeling that they wanted toe to a conclusion that was more on the peaceful side rather than the violent side. With that in mind, the other guards sheathed their weapons without hesitation as they adjusted their postures, deciding to just give off the illusion that they were intimidating these people if the citizens look at them from afar.

    As for Argentum and Blob, both of them could not help but look at each other with auras of slight happiness, seeing what the remaining guards had just done. After exchanging a few strands of energy, the two of them went ahead and radiated an aura that made it seem like they were feeling fear, making the remaining guards look at them from a positive light as they silently gave them words of gratitude.

    ¡°So¡­should we wait a bit more before leaving?¡± Blob went ahead and asked Argentum through a strand of energy.

    ¡°Yeah, I think that¡¯ll be for the better,¡± Argentum said in response with a light chuckle. ¡°The feeling that I got a while ago hasn¡¯t gone away just yet.¡±

    ¡°Same.¡±

    ¡°In any case¡­¡±

    ¡°This is unexpectedly easy.¡±

    ¡ª¡ª¨C

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 Chapter 263: Reinforcements

    Chapter 263: Reinforcements

    And just like that, a few minutes have passed with an impasse happening between the guards and Argentum and Blob. Throughout this time, the guards maintained their imposing postures, radiating an imposing aura that contrasted the auras radiated by Argentum and Blob. The two of them were exuding auras of immense fear as their postures were slightly bent, making themselves look like they had no way to escape the clutches of these guards.

    Of course, in reality, it was quite the opposite. The guards were the ones afraid of Argentum and Blob, while the two were at the advantageous side. Surprisingly, while the two of them were still waiting for the feeling they felt to gradually disappear, Argentum went ahead and struck up a conversation with one of the guards, deciding to use his way with words to dissuade the guards into making a move against them even if their leader were to attack.

    Unexpectedly, the guards did not deny their proposition, thinking that it would be in their best interest to not make a move against them. To be honest, if you were a Rank 1 Animate and knew that your opponent was of a rank far higher than you, would you make a move against them, only to end up being beaten up into a pulp? This was what the guards had in mind, hence the reason why they epted the proposition. On the other hand, Argentum and Blob decided to make the offer sweeter by giving them a few incentives, like making sure that the town wouldn¡¯t be attacked by the nearby beasts for a few weeks or so.

    At that point, the guards were now wholeheartedly supporting Argentum and Blob in what they were doing. Unfortunately for the two, just as they thought that the impasse wouldst longer, a silhouette that was quite familiar to everyone in the surroundings had appeared once again from the same direction. But unlike before, there was a ton of dust and rubble attached to the silhouette¡¯s uniform.

    This was none other than the guard who was interrogating the citizens a while ago, the leader of the guards making up Team A. The one who tried to persuade the guards in the surroundings to make a move against the two since the auras they emitted were nothing inparison to his. Nevertheless, as he made his way back to where hisrades were, he could not help but recall the feeling he felt before he was sent flying through multiple houses.

    In his mind, he could not help but think, ¡®Do these people have some sort of secret technique in their arsenal, allowing to exert a power that would triumph over mine?¡¯

    After mulling over it for a bit, he felt like that was the most likely answer, inwardly grinning as he thought that there was no way these two would be able to exert such a level of power yet again.

    On the other hand, with the help of his enhanced vision, Argentum was able to see the being Blob punched harshly a while agoing back to where they were. Letting out a soft sigh after noticing this being, he went ahead and sent a strand of energy to one of the guards he became close with throughout the past few minutes, asking, ¡°Do you mind if we send him flying once again?¡±

    In response, the guard replied through his mind with an indifferent tone, but held a hint of tion within. He said, ¡°Go ahead, to be honest. Amongst the guards that are standing here right now, only that guard right there has the closest rtion to the leader of the town. As for us, we just want to make sure that the town is safe from harm to the best of our abilities.¡±

    ¡°d to hear thating from hisrade,¡± Argentum replied with a light chuckle. He then added another statement, which made the guard¡¯s face light up slightly, ¡°With that, I¡¯ll sweeten the deal a little bit. We¡¯ll make sure that no beasts will attack your town for two months.¡±

    After he was finished saying that, Argentum went ahead and sent another strand of energy to Blob, saying, ¡°Blob, that Animate ising here yet again. At this point, you already know what to do, right?¡±

    ¡°How could I not know?¡± Blob let out a chortle as he responded to Argentum¡¯s question. ¡°It¡¯s way better than doing nothing anyway.¡±

    As he lightly clenched his fists open and close for a bit, he then added, ¡°Oh, and also, tell me your reasons behind doing this after, okay?¡±

    ¡°Hm?¡± Hearing such a request out of the blue, Argentum let out a brief aura of confusion. Fortunately, Blob followed up on his words, saying, ¡°The stalling for time and the feeling you have right now. The Argentum I know definitely has a greater motive behind all that.¡±

    Argentum let out a yful giggle in response. Scratching his head for a bit, he then said through a strand of energy, ¡°Let¡¯s just say that it has something to do with the item we have for now.¡±

    Whoosh!

    Just as the two were finished with their conversation, the guard from a while ago had finally arrived, noticing that the guards standing around were radiating imposing auras, which was a far cry from what he saw a while ago. Thinking that the guards now had the will to fight against these two intruders of their town, he unhesitatingly took a deep breath before shouting with glee,¡± Indeed! That is the spirit a guard of Verdant Breeze Town should have!¡±

    In response to the guard¡¯s words, the other guards only coldly looked at his direction for a bit before redirecting it back to other directions. Noticing this, the guard finally realized that they were only radiating such auras as a facade. Slightly furious, he shouted, ¡°What the heck are you guys doing? Do you have no shame in what you¡¯re doing? You¡¯re the guards of Verdant Breeze Town for heaven¡¯s sake! Now, listen to me! Raise your weapons and atta¡ª!¡±

    Bang! Bang! Bang! Bang!

    And just like a while ago, even before the guard could finish his speech to instill a fighting spirit into hisrades, Blob went ahead and dashed at his maximum speed before tightly clenching his right fist once more. He then punched the guard in the face with a bit of spin this time, transforming the guard that was sent flying into a spinning projectile that was akin to a bullet.

    With that kind of force, the guard had no problem passing through the holes he had made a while ago, ending up forming a few more holes through a few more houses, bringing the total number of houses he had formed holes through to 12. On the other hand, Blob radiated an aura of satisfaction as he blew on his right fist while making his way back to his previous position.

    At the very instant he did so, Blob focused his sense of vision onto Argentum before sending a strand of energy. In this strand of energy, he said, ¡°So¡­what are your reasons for doing this? How is it rted to the Tome of the Four Elements?¡±

    ¡°It has a lot to do with the Tome of the Four Elements,¡± Argentum replied without dy with a strand of his own. He then added, ¡°In fact, once the feeling we have disappears, we would have obtained an item that would allow me to have greater perception towards the four elements, allowing me to be the tome¡¯s sole owner even faster.¡±

    ¡°I see,¡± Blob said after a short bit, nodding in understanding. Of course, he was not satisfied with the answer his creator had given him. But since Argentum did not want to say anything else about the n he had in mind for now, he decided to just stay silent and follow what Argentum wants him to do to help out with his n.

    Noticing that the two were finished secretly conversing with one another, the guard Argentum was talking to a while ago took the initiative to send a strand of energy towards Argentum since he felt like Argentum was the leader of the two. On the strand, he said, ¡°Tell yourpanion to wait for that guy toe again. Although it¡¯s already the second time he has been defeated, he won¡¯t give up that easily.¡±

    He then added, ¡°If you don¡¯t wanna be bothered by him yet again, send him flying so far that he has no choice but to give up on fighting against you two.¡±

    Hearing what the guard was saying, Argentum was slightly left at a loss for words. He could not help but wonder why the guard was doing him such a favor, prompting him to ask the guard through a strand of energy. In response, the guard coolly replied, ¡°Think of it as a small repayment to the big favor you¡¯re doing us. The greatest problem we guards have in this town are the beasts that attack the town¡¯s walls every once in a while. If you remove them from our list of problems for a month or two, we would definitely have greater strength to fight against intruders like you the next time.¡±

    ¡°Of course, when you twoe back here, we¡¯ll treat you two as benefactors,¡± the guard said not long after, letting out a light chortle. In response, Argentum went ahead and lightly chortled as well, thinking that this guard he was talking to seems like a nice person as a whole. He thought that as a leader of the guards, this guy he was talking to would be a better fit.

    Surprisingly, it was at this moment that the silhouette everyone has gotten used to by now hade and appeared in front of them once again. This time though, his uniform was now tattered in many areas due to the number of houses he had formed holes through. Not only that, but his face had also be a mangled mess, a far cry from the decently looking face the man had the first time he had arrived.

    Radiating an aura that did not lose out to the guards, this man let out a loud yell filled with indignation, his stare akin to a metal spike as he shouted, ¡°What the heck is everyone doing? Are you truly guards of this town, thinking for the betterment of the citizens?!¡±

    ¡°Are you truly thinking of siding with these intruders, who have done nothing but cause harm to us?¡± he added.

    ¡°[Higher Zephyr Magic: Zephyr Magna eliaris].¡±

    ¡°[Higher Ignis Magic: Ignis Fervor Maxima].¡±

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    Hearing the sounds of spells being cast, the guard could not help but scoff at Argentum and Blob as he said, ¡°So what if you cast spells? Would that even bring any change to the resu¡ª!¡±

    Bang! Bang! Bang!

    Of course, akin to what happened some time ago, just as the guard was about to finish with his statement, Blob unhesitatingly went ahead and appeared in front of his field of vision in an instant, sending a punch filled with the zenith of his strength towards the man¡¯s face. This time though, due to the number of buffs that had been cast on him, with the buffs Argentum cast on him a while ago still applying their effect, the strength behind the punch was greatly amplified.

    Not only did the guard go through the holes he had made a while ago, but he also made holes through all of the houses he was sent flying towards this time, only stopping as his head became stuck on the walls protecting the town from beasts at night. At the moment the guard collided with the stone walls, everyone in the surroundings heard a loud thud resound throughout the town, with the guards surrounding Argentum and Blob having light smiles on their faces.

    As for Argentum and Blob, Argentum went ahead and gave Blob a thumbs up just as he went back to his original position, saying, ¡°Nice punch.¡±

    ¡°It was incredibly satisfying,¡± Blob said before letting out a chortle.

    And just like that, the impasse from before hade back, continuing for far longer than ten minutes as everyone realized that the guard from before would note back anymore from that attack. The force behind that attack alone would definitely put someone at Rank 3 out ofmission, even more so for a Rank 2 that was not at their peak yet.

    But unfortunately for Argentum, Blob, and the guards, this impasse would notst for long as an entity that radiated an aura far stronger than the guard from before had finally appeared in front of them. This entity wore quite some nice clothes, exuding the feeling that he had a decent amount of wealth. Not only that, but if one looked closely, a few particles of energy surrounded his body, making everyone realize that this entity had a ss that was rted to magic.

    At this moment, this entity was currently hovering a few meters away from where the guards, as well as Argentum and Blob, were. An expression of dissatisfaction on his face, he said in a cold tone, ¡°To steal something that I own, the only end I want for you two¡­¡±

    ¡°¡­is death.¡±

    ¡°Inner Protection Array, activate!¡±

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    In less than an instant, a barrier that enveloped the town was formed, imbuing the guards that were just standing with a sense of strength that far surpassed their own. On the other hand, Argentum and Blob felt like their strength had gotten weaker, but it was not at a point that they could not brute force their way in exuding their full strength.

    In fact, Argentum could not help but inwardly chuckle at the current situation as he sent a strand of energy to Blob, saying, ¡°Time to move to the final phase of our n. He¡¯s the one that¡¯s giving off the feeling we both felt a while ago.¡±

    ¡°No need to hold back anymore,¡± he added, which made Blob radiate an aura of immense tion.

    ¡°But just in case¡­¡± he muttered to himself soon after that, channeling the energy that was circting throughout his body as a connection with a certain being had been formed in an instant. A few secondster, a familiar voice resounded in his mind.

    ¡°Hello? Is that you, Argentum?¡±

    ¡°Yes, it¡¯s me. How could it be someone else?¡±

    ¡°Well¡­fair point. So, what made you talk to me?¡±

    ¡°Could you head towards Verdant Breeze Town?¡±

    ¡°What for?¡±

    ¡°I just have something I need your help with.¡±

    ¡°Hmm¡­alright. Is itbat-rted?¡±

    ¡°I guess you could say that.¡±

    ¡°Give me a few minutes if that¡¯s the case. You could stall for that long, right?¡±

    ¡°Yeah, no need to worry about that.¡±

    ¡°Alright, see you in a few minutes then, Argentum.¡±

    ¡°Alright. See you in a few minutes¡­¡±

    ¡°Felix.¡±

    ¡ª¡ª¨C

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 Chapter 264: End of the Line

    Chapter 264: End of the Line

    After he requested Felix toe to where he and Blob were currently at, Argentum felt a bit more assured about the chances of his idea working. To be honest, this current idea he had stemmed off from the fact that he had unnecessarily punched one of the guards to assert dominance over them. Thinking that at that point there was no turning back, he went ahead and created a n where he would benefit more from the action that he had done, not hesitating to form a n wherein the end goal was to kill the leader of Verdant Breeze Town.

    At this point, one would normally ask why Argentum would go ahead and do just that, even though he had already obtained the most important item from the town leader¡¯s manor. Well, while formting his current n, he could not help but recall Aurus¡¯s memories of the holder of the Tome of the Four Elements in the previous life, eventually recalling that the holder mentioned a few concoctions that would allow one¡¯s perception of the elements to be greatly boosted for a long amount of time.

    To Argentum, those concoctions could be considered as the second most important thing after the Tome of the Four Elements since it would allow him to be the sole owner of the tome at a faster rate. He was willing to even be aggressive in his actions, only for it to not happen as the guards were more or less dissatisfied with the rule of the current leader in one way or another.

    As for the entity that had just arrived, he was nonchntly looking at everyone else after activating the Inner Protection Array covering the whole town, of course, this was none other than the leader of Verdant Breeze Town. Quite some time ago, he was at a crossroads as to whether he would show himself in front of these two intruders or not, eventually deciding on thetter after seeing the actions of his most loyal guard. Unfortunately, that loyal guard was sent flying into oblivion, colliding with the stone walls that protected the town.

    With that as the result, the leader could not help but inwardly sigh as he pulled out all of the stops in his arsenal, thinking that it was better to be out of resources and have the tome for himself, rather than have a lot of resources and no tome at all.

    At first, after he activated the Inner Protection Array, which boosted the strength of the guards in the town to a considerable degree, he thought that they would not hesitate to take the initiative and attack the intruders for his sake. Sadly, things did not turn out in the way he had expected, with the guards remaining in their ces although the auras they radiated were now significantly stronger than before. On the other hand, the intruders¡¯ auras just barely weakened, which should have been the second effect of the array, but did not affect the two at all.

    ¡°What the heck are you guys doing?!¡± Feeling that the guards were not attacking the intruders on purpose, the town leader was infuriated in an instant, yelling at the guards without hesitation. ¡°The intruders are right in front of you, ready to be struck down by justice, but you guys don¡¯t even have the balls to attack them?¡±

    In response, the guards remained silent, while Argentum and Blob looked at the current situation with indifferent auras. Although the two of them were certain that they were going to make a move if ever their leader went ahead and attacked them, since nothing was happening right now, it was better to stay on the fence.

    After that sudden outburst, the leader of the town went silent for a couple of minutes, waiting for the guards toe to their senses and finally attack the intruders that stole his tome. But unfortunately, just like before, the guards stayed frozen in their positions, not even giving off the aura that they wanted to attack the intruders. Seeing this, the leader went ahead and cursed them for being useless, using extremely colorful words that went beyond humanprehension.

    Nevertheless, the guards did not even flinch from those words, only letting out slight frowns at most as they were determined that their decision was correct. Eventually, after a minute of cursing out, the leader of the town had enough, letting out a loud and long sigh of disappointment as he furiously scratched his head in annoyance.

    ¡°Since you guys aren¡¯t going to capture these intruders even though they¡¯re just there¡­¡± the leader muttered in a cold tone, though his voice was heard by everyone thanks to the maniption of energy.

    ¡°Then I¡¯ll just consider you guys as intruders as well.¡±

    ¡°The verdict¡­hehe. Of course¡­¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s none other than death.¡±

    Whoosh!

    It was at the moment the town leader was finished speaking did the guards finally feel a bit of regret from what they had just done. Naturally, to every being¡¯s mind, untimely death was something they never wanted to experience, with some of the guards suddenly taking a few steps back as a cold breeze blew over their bodies.

    On the other hand, the town leader now held a gaze that was akin to the frost found in tundras, raising his right palm as arge ball of energy was conjured in an instant. A few secondster, multiple particles of energy materialized around thisrge ball, heading towards it not long after to be absorbed, changing the appearance of the ball into that which had two sides, a side of pure red and pure blue.

    ¡°Blob.¡± Sensing the threat the ball of energy the leader was about to throw at them, Argentum went ahead andmanded Blob, ordering him, ¡°Use everything you have in your arsenal to not let that ball hit the guards.¡±

    As they heard these words resound throughout the area, the guards could not help but feel that the treatment they felt from Argentum and Blob was far better than what they got from the current leader, who was about to attack them just because they did not follow his orders. At this moment, all of the guards put their hopes onto the duo, wanting to see if a change would happen to this town¡­a change that only they were a part of.

    Whoosh!

    Obtaining Argentum¡¯s order, Blob lightly nodded before channeling all of the energy he had in his body towards his legs, charging towards where the leader was floating in mere moments due to the number of buffs he currently had. Unfortunately for Blob, just as he was about to punch the ball of red and blue to disperse it, the leader coldly smiled as he said, ¡°Toote.¡±

    ¡°[Ardent Frost Bomb].¡±

    Bang!

    Not an instantter, an explosion that took on the same color as the ball covered both Blob and the leader, hastily making everyone in the surroundings anxious as to what the result was. With a gust of wind blowing the explosion away, the guards could not help but inwardly let out a sigh as they noticed that the town leader was left unscathed, a barrier of translucent light blue energy covering him from the attack. But then, their emotions took a 180-degree turn as the explosion had fully dispersed, revealing that Blob was actually fine as well!

    Tightly gripping onto a shield that he had conjured at the veryst second, Blob could not help but let out a sigh of relief as he used the force of the explosion to make his way to where he was. Amidst that, he went ahead and said, ¡°That was close.¡±

    Thud.

    As Blobnded back at his previous position, the guards unhesitatingly went ahead and cheered for Blob. All of them were in awe and admiration of what he had done, defending against an attack from the town leader, which they could not do themselves. Argentum looked at the guards and Blob with an aura filled with slight happiness, thinking that this moment of camaraderie ain¡¯t so bad.

    On the other hand, although he was covered by an energy barrier, the leader of Verdant Breeze Town had a gloomy expression on his face as he noticed that the intruder he sent the attack towards was unscathed just like him. Wondering what was the intruder¡¯s secret to defending such a destructive attack, the leader of the town went ahead and secretly utilized a bit of his energy to inspect the intruder¡¯s conditions¡­only for his mood to take a turn for the better as he realized that the intruders were not human at all.

    ¡®I¡¯m gonna be rich!¡¯ was the thought he had in mind after his realization.

    The reason why this thought surfaced in his mind was that he found out that the being he was fighting against was actually a Pseudo-Animate! As someone who stood at the peak of authority in this town, he had ess to a lot of knowledge, allowing him to learn of the existence of Pseudo-Animates, which were used by humans as catalysts for items or materials for powerful equipment. There were also times when they were used as ves or servants by powerful beings, but one thing was for sure.

    Pseudo-Animates sold for a lot of money!

    ¡®To be able to defend against an attack of my level¡­I could definitely sell him for a few million gold coins!¡¯ he thought to himself as he lightly snickered with malevolent intent. At that moment, the n in his mind had changed, deciding that the best-case scenario was for him to obtain his tome back and capture that Pseudo-Animate for his own.

    ¡°Just to make sure the owner is someone I can go up against¡­¡± he soon muttered not long after, sending another strand of energy secretly towards Argentum, who seemed to radiate an aura that he was at ease. Expecting that the second intruder was a human, it gave him a great shock when he found out that the second intruder was also a Pseudo-Animate!

    ¡®So you¡¯re telling me that two inferior beings were able to steal something important from my manor without me noticing?¡¯ Although this thought circted in his mind, making him think that these two Pseudo-Animates were not some beings one could mess around with, the innate greed he had won over his rationality, looking at the two like they were walking gold coffers as he conjured arger ball of energy this time.

    In an instant, the diameter of this ball of energy had reached the size of 2 exercise balls, radiating an intent of destruction that was far more palpable than before. Soon after, multiple particles of energy manifested and coalesced around the ball, infusing the ball with three elements instead of two this time. It was only at this moment that the guards noticed what their leader was doing, their legs trembling in fear as they did not want to imagine the aftermath of such an attack.

    As for Argentum and Blob, Blob hastily used the strongest defensive skill in his arsenal, conjuring arge shield that he wielded as he dashed, with Argentum casting a spell on the shield to make it more sturdy and powerful.

    Swoosh!

    Just as Blob was in the middle of his jump, the town leader let out a maniacal cackle as he threw the ball at the guards, as well as the two, without hesitation as he shouted, ¡°To think that you two are Pseudo-Animates¡­the heavens have truly given me great luck!¡±

    ¡°Now fall under my attack and be mine!¡±

    ¡°[Worldly Aquame Eruption]!¡±

    ¡­

    ¡­

    ¡­

    ¡°Huh?¡± Even though the leader was sure that he had thrown the attack towards the guards and the two Pseudo-Animates, no explosion came. The aftermath could not be seen at all, as if the explosion had not happened in the first ce. He looked around his surroundings and noticed that the ball of energy he threw was fixed in ce. Not only that, but he also noticed that everyone else, the guards, the two Pseudo-Animates were also fixed in ce¡­

    As if they were frozen in time.

    ¡°Phew. I barely made it.¡± Just as the leader thought that he might be going mad, he heard a deep yet enchanting resound throughout the area, prompting his eyes to focus onto a rift that was newly made, revealing a man with an extraordinary auraing out of it.

    Complementing the ocean blue irises he had, this man wore a blue suit that would normally be worn by a businessman for apany, giving off the feeling that everything around was under his control. In fact, that was indeed the case. Currently, everyone in the surroundings, the guards, and even Argentum and Blob looked at the newly arrived person, feeling that any movement they made would be seen by the man.

    Not to mention, they also felt that the current situation was due to the man¡¯s doing, stopping everything in their surroundings from moving through sheer aura alone. Then again, even though it seemed like everything was frozen, the man in the blue suit slowly made his way towards the leader of the town, a light and amiable smile covering his face as he removed part of the aura he ced on the town leader.

    With part of the aura pressing on him now gone, the town leader felt a bit more at ease, though he could not help but look at the man in a blue suit with a hint of fear. Cautiously, he asked in a respectful tone, ¡°Who might this esteemed sir be?¡±

    In response, the man in the blue suit let out a light chuckle, responding, ¡°My identity is not important, but let me ask the same question to you.¡±

    ¡°Who are you, kind sir?¡± the man asked soon after, to which the leader of the town unhesitatingly replied with a slight bow, ¡°My first name is Irren, esteemed sir. I hail from the Magia family, a family that¡¯s known for their powerful mages.¡±

    ¡°Irren, huh¡­¡± the man in the blue suit muttered with a light smile still on his face, taking a bit of his time to look at everyone else, eventually fixating his nce on Argentum. When Argentum felt the man¡¯s gaze on him, it was then that Argentum realized who the man in the blue suit was. He did not say anything in response though, only nodding.

    Seeing Argentum lightly nodding, the man in the blue suit looked back at the leader and said, ¡°Irren?¡±

    ¡°Yes?¡± the town leader replied with a smile on his face.

    ¡°Goodbye.¡±

    ¡°Eh?¡±

    Whoosh!

    Without hesitation, the man in the blue suit made a horizontal slicing motion with his left hand, instantly decapitating the town leader¡¯s head. The leader did not even realize that his head was cut off, only realizing it as he felt that his consciousness was fading away.

    And just like that, Verdant Breeze Town was now a leaderless town.

    ¡ª¡ª¨C

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 Chapter 265: Ransacking the Manor

    Chapter 265: Ransacking the Manor

    Whoosh!

    Hearing the sharp sound of wind resounding throughout the area, even though the guards could not move under the influence of the man¡¯s aura, they still felt inwardly shocked as their eyes were fixated on the man and the leader. In an instant, the head of the leader they knew¡­the leader that ruled this town with both nonchnce and extreme cruelty¡­was cut off from his neck without any problem. Not to mention, no blood was spilled after his head was cut off, making it seem like their former leader was not human at all.

    As for Argentum and Blob, they also could not help but look at the scenario with auras of shock. For Blob, it was more along the lines of being startled since he did not know who the man was, unhesitatingly going out of his way to decapitate the Animate they were up against. On the other hand, Argentum felt immense disbelief from the scenario since from a single nce between them, he was easily able to find out who the man was. For a decent amount of time, he could note to the terms that the being he knew actually had that much power within him.

    Eventually, after a few more seconds or so, the man in the blue suit went ahead and retracted his aura, allowing things to move as usual. Of course, he went ahead and dispersed the attack the leader sent before he died, making sure that it did not continue onward through its trajectory. Blob, on the other hand, was left as is, allowing him to reach the peak of his jump height beforending on the ground with a thud.

    Afternding on the ground with a thud, Blob unhesitatingly went back to his previous position, wanting to distance himself from the man who had just arrived. In fact, he wanted to distance himself from the man so much that he headed towards Argentum¡¯s side and sent a strand of energy soon after, asking his creator, ¡°Do you know who that being is?¡±

    ¡°Of course I do,¡± Argentum let out a chuckle as he responded through a strand of energy, looking at the current situation. At the moment, all of the guards radiated a palpable aura of fear, their gazes fixated on the man in the blue suit, who had justnded on the ground. Just as the man was taking a few steps closer to where the two and the guards were, he continued with his response, saying, ¡°He¡¯s someone you know quite well.¡±

    ¡°Eh?¡± Hearing this, Blob could not help but briefly radiate an aura of slight confusion, recalling all of the beings that he had met so far. Finding out that he had only met one being so far, Blob could not help but ponder over it even more, cross-referencing the man¡¯s current appearance with the being he had met quite some time ago. Unfortunately for him, even after cross-referencing multiple times, he felt like the man that wasing closer to them was not the being he knew at all.

    Nevertheless, that did not stop the man in the blue suit from making his way to where they were, with the guards noticing that the man was making his way to where Argentum and Blob was. With the guards being thankful for what Blob and Argentum had done to them, they took the initiative to hinder the man from continuing on his path, only to find out that they could not move at all.

    Whoosh! Thud!

    While they were mulling over the reasons why they could not hinder the man from continuing on his path, a few guards noticed that arge silhouette was heading their way, instinctively catching it with their hands. It was only a few secondster that they found out that the silhouette they caught was the body of their former leader, with an unlucky guard catching the decapitated head of their former leader.

    With these unlucky guards feeling like they were about to vomit from what they were holding, the man in the blue suit told them with a cold expression, ¡°Go and bury your former leader. If you don¡¯t, you know what will happen.¡±

    Sensing a hint of killing intent beneath those words, at the very moment these guards felt that the aura surrounding him was no longer there, they unhesitatingly went ahead and ran towards where the cemetery was located, with all of them wondering how there was no blood spurting out of the leader after all that.

    Eventually, the man in the blue suit arrived in front of Argentum and Blob, with Blob radiating a vignt aura while Argentum was radiating an aura that contrasted Blob¡¯s, an incredibly rxed one.

    With a smile on his face, the man in the blue suit focused his attention onto Argentum before letting out a light chuckle. He then asked him, ¡°Was my entrance too shy?¡±

    ¡°Not at all,¡± Argentum said in response with an aura of slight happiness, letting out a light giggle of his own. He then added, ¡°To be honest, that was quite covert, using the night to cover the traces of the rift you made.¡±

    ¡°Hoh?¡± the man in the blue suit raised his eyebrows in response, soon asking, ¡°How do you know about rifts?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ve heard a few things from Teacher,¡± Argentum responded without dy, knowing very well who he was talking with.

    Finding no fault in his response, the man in the blue suit shrugged his shoulders after that. He then mulled over something for a bit, feeling the gazes of the guards that were looking at the three of them. Scratching his head a few secondster, he then questioned Argentum, ¡°Could you give me a rundown before I came here? It¡¯s quite bizarre to see guards of a town surrounding you without any malicious intent.¡±

    In response, Argentum went ahead and sent a strand of energy towards the man, saying, ¡°I have a feeling that they don¡¯t know that I and Blob are Pseudo-Animates, which is a good thing.¡±

    ¡°Makes sense,¡± the man in the blue suit replied, sending a strand of his own. ¡°Anyways, rundown?¡±

    And with that question being asked, Argentum went ahead and narrated everything that had happened to the two, from the time when they were just about to enter Verdant Breeze Town, up to the present moment. Surprisingly, he did not omit anything in his narration to the man, talking about how his goal in this town was to obtain the Tome of the Four Elements, making the man in the blue suit let out an expression of realization.

    ¡°So that¡¯s why you didn¡¯t head towards an Earth-based inheritance. You¡¯re quite sneaky, aren¡¯t you?¡± the man in the blue suitughed as he said to Argentum through a strand of energy. ¡°Tome of the Four Elements, huh. It¡¯s an item that definitely makes me jealous, but it¡¯s more suited for what you want to do.¡±

    ¡°Anyways, what are you going to do next now that your ns are done?¡± the man in the blue suit asked Argentum without utilizing a strand. In response, Argentum said, ¡°My ns aren¡¯t actually done yet. I still need to grab something from the manor of that guy you killed.¡±

    ¡°Care to apany me, Felix?¡± he asked not long after, to which the man in the blue suit lightly smiled as he said, ¡°Sure.¡±

    On the other hand, after hearing the mention of a certain name, Blob could not help but repeat it to himself, muttering, ¡°Felix? Where have I heard that before?¡±

    Soon after that, Blob went ahead and recalled everything that had happened throughout the journey so far, even going so far as to recall the conversations he and Argentum had while they were resting. It was then that Blob realized the true identity of the man in the blue suit, hastily taking a few steps forward before bowing as he greeted, ¡°Blob pays his respects to the Grand Blue Master!¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s nice to see you again, Blob,¡± the man in the blue suit did not deny that he was the Grand Blue Master, letting out a light chortle as he greeted Blob back. He then asked him, ¡°Want to apany us to the manor?¡±

    ¡°I would be d to,¡± Blob respectfully replied as he radiated an aura of tion.

    Just as they were about to head towards the manor, Felix went ahead and asked Argentum, ¡°Now that I think about it¡­what are you nning to do with these guards now that the town is leaderless?¡±

    ¡°Hmm¡­good point,¡± Argentum said not long after, pondering over the possible solutions to the current problem, which was theck of a leader that would lead Verdant Breeze Town. Eventually, a thought surfaced in his mind, which resonated with his other thoughts. With that in mind, he looked at the guards that were looking at the three with slight curiosity and said, ¡°With your leader now gone, I guess it¡¯s time for a new leader to be elected.¡±

    ¡°Go and talk with each other as to which one of you would be the best fit to be the town¡¯s new leader,¡± he added soon after. Hearing those words, the guards instantly had ted expressions on their faces, thinking that this was a once in a lifetime chance for them to change their fate. Naturally, all of them had malicious thoughts, thinking that they would not mind killing theirrades to get the position.

    But of course, Argentum already thought about that, pointing towards Felix before adding, ¡°Just so you know, this friend of mine can detect every move you guys do even when we¡¯re at the manor.¡±

    It was then that all of the malicious thoughts in their minds had dissipated in an instant. They did not want to end up like their former leader, nodding profusely in response to Argentum¡¯s words before engaging in civilized discussions.

    As for the trio, after looking at the guards converse for a short while, they then made their way to the now-empty manor of the former leader, utilizing Felix¡¯s abilities to arrive in front of the manor within a few seconds.

    Soon after, the three entered the manor through the main entrance, looking through all of the rooms in the manor in search of precious things that could offer a tangible benefit to them.

    It did not take long for the three to eventually find a secret room in the manor, hidden behind an inconspicuous bookshelf. After opening the entrance to the secret room, the three were then greeted by the auras of the four foundational elements, interacting with each other in great harmony.

    Utilizing his enhanced senses, Argentum went ahead and took in the aura that suffused throughout the room, radiating an aura of tion and expectation as he knew that this aura came from the items that he was looking for.

    The concoctions that boosted one¡¯s perception of the elements.

    Telling them what this aura entailed, Argentum unhesitatingly went deeper into the room with Felix and Blob behind him, eventually arriving in front of a desk that had four sks and a notebook. The four sks were filled with what seemed to be viscous fluids that gave off different sensations regarding the elements, while the notes that were jotted on the notebook seemed to be rted to the contents inside the four sks.

    Although he was interested in what was written inside the notebook, Argentum focused his attention on the four sks first, wanting to make sure that these four sks contained the concoctions that he needed to increase his speed in bing the sole owner of the tome.

    With that in mind, he went ahead andmanded the system to identify the contents of one of the sks, specifically the one that contained a red viscous fluid.

    Ding!

    Apanied by a notification sound, a small holographic screen that listed the information he needed soon appeared in front of his field of vision. It was only a matter of time until Argentum jumped for joy, thinking that he had hit jackpot this time.

    ________

    Heaven¡¯s me Potion (Prototype)

    A concoction crafted by a mage that wanted to increase his perception towards the Fire element in order to be the sole owner of a certain item. After multiple experiments throughout multiple years, the mage was able toe close to the final product he had in mind, but he still felt that the potion wascking something. Unfortunately, the mage was not able to find thecking ingredient.

    With that ingredient gone, this potion is more effective to those at the Pseudo-Animate level, while those at the Animate level would be able to increase their perception of the Fire element by only a tiny bit.

    > When consumed by an Animate: 30% increase in perception towards the Fire element for 30 minutes

    > When consumed by a Pseudo-Animate: 200% increase in perception towards the Fire element for 2 hours

    ________

    ¡°The heavens have given me luck this time,¡± Argentum let out a chuckle as he closed the screen, thinking that the current rendition of the concoctions suited his needs. He then turned around to look at the two with an aura of satisfaction suffusing from him as he said, ¡°The four sks and the book are all that I need from this manor. If you two want to grab anything from the manor, feel free to do so.¡±

    ¡°Well, if you say so,¡± Blob said in response, letting out an aura of expectation and tion soon after as he went towards the second floor of the manor. In Argentum¡¯s mind, he instinctively knew that Blob was aiming for the skills and spells in the library, thinking that it would be a good thing for both him and Blob in the long run.

    As for Felix, he only stood behind after Argentum was finished talking, prompting Argentum to ask him, ¡°Do you need anything from the manor, Felix?¡±

    ¡°Not really,¡± Felix shook his head as he responded. ¡°But rather, I want to ask you something, Argentum.¡±

    ¡°What is it?¡± Argentum asked as a response to his statement.

    ¡°Do you really want to choose among the guards to be the leader of this town?¡± Taking in a deep breath, Felixposed himself before asking.

    Hearing such a question, Argentum could not help but feel a bit confused. He then followed up with a question of his own, asking, ¡°What are you trying to imply, Felix?¡±

    ¡°What I¡¯m saying is¡­¡±

    ¡°Why don¡¯t you be the leader of Verdant Breeze Town instead?¡±

    ¡ª¡ª¨C

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 Chapter 266: Change of Plans

    Chapter 266: Change of ns

    XXXX Continent, Seraph Kingdom, Arcana Tower.

    On one of the floors constituting the Arcana Tower, one would find a certain floor wherein it is filled to the brim with rooms where highly ranked mages reside in. Inside one of these rooms, one would find two mages. The first mage was a man in a red robe, wearing ck-rimmed sses thatplimented his face, radiating aposed aura at any given moment. As for the other mage, she was wearing a gray robe while her light green hair was tied into a ponytail. At the moment, her eyes were fixated on an orb of water she had conjured. Then again, so was the other mage.

    Of course, these two mages were none other than Erea and Dane. After meeting up with the Ninth Prince that one time, the two went ahead and did their things for around one and a half weeks so far. It was only when Erea felt like she was stuck at a bottleneck did shee to her mentor¡¯s room, asking him for advice on which areas she could improve on.

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡± Currently, Dane was looking at the orb his student had just conjured with a keen eye, making sure to not miss any small detail that would go unnoticed by the untrained eye. Eventually, his vision was focused on Erea¡¯s face instead, lightly grinning as he said, ¡°Your control over the Water element has greatly improved. Right now, the orb you¡¯ve created can no longer be told apart from natural water.¡±

    Fwoosh!

    As Erea dispelled the water orb she made, she could not help but let out a shy chuckle as she responded, ¡°It¡¯s all thanks to Teacher for letting me borrow your copy of {Beryl¡¯s Aqua Spells}.¡±

    Just as she mentioned the name of the scripture she borrowed, she realized that the promise she had made with him was not yet fulfilled. She then said not long after in a slightly panicked tone, ¡°Ah, right! I forgot to return it to you after I ascended to a Rank 3 ss!¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s fine, it¡¯s fine.¡± In response, Dane let out a light chuckle as he sat down on a nearby chair, scratching his back as he did not mind his student forgetting about her promise at all. In fact, to him, he felt like it would be better for her to keep the scripture, which he only bought for inspiration, since it would allow her control over the elements to improve. With that in mind, he soon told her, ¡°How about you keep that scripture to yourself for now? I have no use for it, while you still have a lot to learn from it. Don¡¯t you think it would be better if it was in your hands?¡±

    Hearing her mentor¡¯s words, Erea could not help but want to ept his offer, but she still felt a bit of guilt since she felt like it was unfair for her to take something which she had only borrowed at first. Getting a feel for what was going on inside his student¡¯s mind, Dane followed up with another statement, letting out a soft sigh before saying, ¡°How about this? Think of it as my gift to you after ascending to a Rank 3 ss. Would that let you not feel guilt anymore?¡±

    Erea pondered over Dane¡¯s words for a bit, eventually nodding as she let out a sigh of her own. Even though her mentor had just said that it was a gift for her, she knew that that was not his original intention. Nevertheless, she decided to not show this emotion to her teacher as she lightly bowed in response before respectfully saying, ¡°Then I must thank Teacher for giving me the scripture.¡±

    Dane finally let out a light smile as a response to Erea¡¯s words, concurrently letting out an inward sigh of relief as well. Soon after, he removed all of the thoughts he had rted to the scripture in his mind as his train of thought went back to teaching Erea what she wanted to know. With that, he went ahead and asked her, ¡°Do you have anything else you want to ask me?¡±

    ¡°Now that Teacher mentions it, I do have one thing to ask from you,¡± Erea replied not long after. She then continued, ¡°I would like to ask Teacher some tips on how to improve my control over magic spells.¡±

    ¡°Improving control, huh¡­¡± After hearing what Erea wanted to learn from him, Dane went ahead and recalled all of the information he had regarding magic control, eventually organizing those thoughts into a list. He then went ahead and cross-referenced this list with what he knew about Erea, removing things that felt redundant in the chance he taught her those topics. In the end, he was only left with a few things in his mind wherein Erea could improve upon.

    Taking in a deep breath, Dane calmly looked at Erea before saying, ¡°I¡¯vepiled all of the things that one could improve upon when ites to magic control in my mind. I then went ahead and cross-referenced it with what I know about you, removing the things that you have a solid foundation on.¡±

    He then added soon after, ¡°Surprisingly, the things you could improve upon can be solved by a certain scripture you can buy from the tower.¡±

    ¡°Oh? What scripture might that be, Teacher?¡± Listening attentively to her mentor¡¯s words and finding out that a single scripture could enhance her control over magic by a great degree, Erea asked in a curious and expectant tone.

    Dane responded in a solemn tone, ¡°The name of the scripture is¡ª¡±

    Whirr! Whirr!

    Just as Dane was about to mention the name of the scripture, he was unfortunately interrupted by a loud gust of wind. At first, he let the loud gust of wind pass, taking in a deep breath before trying to tell Erea the name of the scripture once more¡­only to be interrupted by a loud gust of wind again. Wondering where the loud gust of wind came from, he went ahead and utilized an investigative spell that examined everything around a certain radius, eventually finding out where it came from.

    ¡°Oh.¡± Surprisingly, after realizing where it came from, Dane let out an awkward chuckle as he excused himself in front of Erea, leading Erea to ponder as to why her mentor excused himself all of a sudden.

    On the other hand, Dane went towards one of the corners of his room, rummaging through the pockets of his robe before bringing out a small crystal. As he sent a bit of his energy into it, the image of a familiar person appeared on the screen as he felt a connection with this person. This image was of a man in his 20s that exuded a great aura of magnanimity. This feeling was further heightened as the man wore clothes that befitted a noble while a small crown was fixated on his head, allowing one to recognize that the man Dane was talking to was part of royalty.

    ¡°What made you call me, Your Highness?¡± Seeing as the man on the crystal was not talking, Dane took the initiative to ask, to which the man replied with a question, ¡°Remember what I told you back then? Regarding our visit to the Astelia and Arcenon family?¡±

    After rummaging through his memories for a bit, Dane nodded before responding, ¡°You told me, Your Highness, that in a couple of weeks, the two of us would be visiting the Astelia and Arcenon family. What about it?¡±

    ¡°Change of ns,¡± the man replied without dy. ¡°I¡¯ve received news that one of the people I¡¯m scouting has finallye back to the Arcenon family household, deciding to stay there for a while before heading off onto another trip.¡±

    Obtaining the hidden meaning amidst the statement said by the man, Dane replied to the man with a question, asking, ¡°So¡­you¡¯re telling me that we¡¯re heading to the Arcenon household right now?¡±

    ¡°More or less,¡± the man responded with a shrug of his shoulders, leading Dane to let out a short inward sigh beforeposing himself. He then turned his head around for a bit, gazing at Erea, who was looking at him with a slightly curious expression. After that, he focused his vision back onto the crystal as he mulled over the pros and cons, eventually agreeing with the man¡¯s proposition by saying, ¡°Alright, then. I¡¯ll apany you, Your Highness. Should I teleport to your pavilion?¡±

    ¡°No need,¡± the man hastily replied as the image behind the man slightly changed. He then continued, ¡°I¡¯ll juste and meet up with you outside the pce gates.¡±

    ¡°As you wish, Your Highness,¡± Dane said in response to those words, eventually cutting off the connection between him and the man.

    ¡°What were you doing, Teacher?¡± Seeing that her mentor was finished with what he had to do, Erea went ahead and asked him, to which Dane responded, ¡°The Ninth Prince called me just a while ago. He wants me to apany him on his journey to a noble family.¡±

    ¡°Oh?¡± Hearing that the Ninth Prince called her mentor, Erea could not help but be slightly startled. Just as she thought that it would be fine if Dane went ahead and met up with the prince right now, a thought soon surfaced in her mind, reminding her that she did not know the name of the scripture her mentor was about to mention a while ago. Scratching her head for a bit as she pondered on how she would ask her question, she asked Dane around ten secondster, ¡°Teacher, if you¡¯re nning to leave me here for now, could you at least tell me the name of the scripture you were about to mention?¡±

    ???Eh?¡± The question Erea asked him left Dane off-guard, not expecting his student to be fine with him leaving for the prince over her. With that in mind, he could not help but feel a bit thankful for the Erea as he hastily responded, ¡°{The Art of Manipting Magic}. For you, the first two volumes would be more than enough for you to experience great improvements in controlling magic.¡±

    After he was finished saying that, just as he was about to go ahead and teleport to where the Ninth Prince was, he suppressed his urge to teleport before adding, ¡°If you don¡¯t have enough funds to buy the scripture, just tell them that you¡¯re buying it under the orders of Educator Dane.¡±

    Whoosh!

    Soon after that, Dane went ahead and conjured a dark magic circle that covered his body, disappearing in front of Erea¡¯s field of vision not long after. In just an instant, she was left alone in her mentor¡¯s room as shemitted the name of the scripture Dane told her into memory. Letting out a short sigh, she then made her way back to her room as she muttered, ¡°Guess I¡¯m back to self-studying for a while.¡±

    ¡­

    Whoosh!

    After a few minutes have passed, a man in a red robe could be seen appearing tens of meters away from the gates of the Seraph Kingdom¡¯s royal pce, startling the guards that were vigntly guarding the gates. But after noticing that the man went ahead and sat down after that, radiating an intent that he was waiting for a certain person toe out, the guards decided that it was better to not mess with the man, continuing with what they were doing a while ago.

    Of course, the man that had just appeared was none other than Dane, utilizing a 4th Circle teleportation spell to make his way towards the pce in less than ten minutes. Remembering what he had done over a week ago as a show of power to his student, he could not help but slightly regret doing it as he muttered, ¡°I should have saved that usage for asions like these.¡±

    Creak¡­

    After waiting for a while, the gates of the pce were opened all of a sudden, startling the guards that were on the other side of the gate. Naturally, they were curious as to which person from the pce had opened the gates, eventually revealing a dashing man in his 20s who wore clothes that were more akin to that of a noble.

    Realizing who the person that came out of the gates was, the guards respectfully bowed to the person before returning to what they were previously doing. As for the dashing man, he went towards Dane with a grin on his face, eventually telling him, ¡°Let¡¯s go!¡±

    In response, Dane stood up from the ground, wiping off the dust from his robe as he asked the dashing man, ¡°Has Your Highness obtained permission for this outing?¡±

    ¡°Of course,¡± the dashing man, who was naturally the Ninth Prince, let out a light chuckle as he responded. He soon radiated the aura of someone at the top of Seraph royalty, allowing Dane to know that the Ninth Prince had truly obtained permission from the king.

    As Dane nodded to the Ninth Prince¡¯s answer, he then asked him, ¡°Do you know where the household of the Arcenon family is located, Your Highness? I haven¡¯t gone there yet.¡±

    ¡°Good thing you asked,¡± Vanadir said in response to Dane¡¯s question, rummaging through his pockets before unfurling a decently sized map that had the territory of the whole Seraph Kingdom inside it. After looking at it for a while, he then pointed to a certain position of the map as he said, ¡°Telmerann Province. That¡¯s where their main household is located.¡±

    ¡°Do you think you could get there as fast as possible? We might miss her if we¡¯re too slow,¡± he asked not long after, to which Dane looked at the map for a bit before eventually nodding.

    Dane then replied, ¡°I¡¯m not too sure if we could arrive there in less than 10 minutes, but if it¡¯s fine for us to arrive in around 30 minutes, then yes, I can do it.¡±

    ¡°Speaking of which, who are you trying to recruit from the Arcenon family, Your Highness?¡± he could not help but ask not long after. Although the Ninth Prince told him that they were recruiting one person each from the Astelia and Arcenon family, after all this time, he was still left in the dark as to who those people were.

    Surprisingly, Vanadir let out a slight grin with a nostalgic hint to it before responding, ¡°Someone who has ascended to a Rank 1 ss at the age of 7, Rank 2 at 11, Rank 3 at 17, and Rank 4 at 23. She¡¯smonly known as the Healing Witch of the West.¡±

    ¡°Her name is Valentia Corinne Arcenon. To everyone, she¡¯s a drop-dead gorgeous beauty,¡± he added, making Dane feel a bit expectant to see her in person. Unfortunately, his imagination was brought to a halt as the Ninth Prince continued to introduce her.

    ¡°Sure, she may be incredibly beautiful to others. But to me¡­¡±

    ¡°She¡¯s just my cousin.¡±

    ¡ª¡ª¨C

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 Chapter 267: The New Leader

    Chapter 267: The New Leader

    ¡°Where did that ideae from, Felix?¡± Argentum could not help but say in response to Felix¡¯s question, briefly radiating a slightly confused aura. He then pondered over the proposition for a bit, eventually shaking his head left and right as he added, ¡°Either way, I¡¯m not fit to be the leader of a town of Animates. I¡¯m just a measly Pseudo-Animate that does not know how the world of the Animates work. If I be the town¡¯s leader, it might just lead to the destruction of this town.¡±

    Listening to Argentum¡¯s disapproval, Felix could not help but scratch his head as he mulled over Argentum¡¯s words, slightly finding it peculiar as to how Argentum was able to make the guards not act on them before he had arrived. With that in mind, he asked him with a hint of caution, ¡°Just to make sure, do those guards really not know that you two are Pseudo-Animates?¡±

    ¡°Not at all,¡± Argentum said as he shook his head. He then continued, ¡°As I¡¯ve said earlier, they must have thought that we were humans like them. With thebat power we showed in front of them, who would think that two entities like us would actually be Pseudo-Ani¡ªhuh.¡±

    Just as he was about to finish his statement, a grin could be seen creeping up on Felix¡¯s handsome face, giving Argentum the feeling that he was being led somewhere. With the grin still stered on his face, Felix said in a cheerful tone, ¡°Well then, you said it yourself. Those Animates don¡¯t know that you¡¯re a Pseudo-Animate, so why don¡¯t you try your hand at being a leader of a town?¡±

    He then added, ¡°I¡¯ve noticed that the guards did not move, even when the leader I killed ordered them to attack you. Surely you must have persuaded them, or gave them some incentive to not make a move on you both.¡±

    Hearing that Felix knew what had happened before he had arrived, Argentum was about to ask this question, only for Felix to be one step ahead of him as he said, ¡°Oh, and also, my spells cover arge range. It¡¯s a simple matter for me to know about these things.¡±

    ¡°Huh¡­¡± Argentum said with a tone of slight understanding and confusion, going silent for a bit after that. After a while, he let out a soft sigh as he answered, ¡°Sure, I did persuade them to not make a move on us, but for the most part, in order for them to follow my words, we had to show our full strength in front of them. I was just using the cards we had to the fullest effect at that time.¡±

    ¡°Nevertheless, you still have a scheming mind,¡± Felix replied as he let out a light chuckle. As he listened to Argentum¡¯s counterarguments, although they expressed deep disapproval in the proposition of bing a leader of Verdant Breeze Town, the reasoning he used was more than enough for Felix to consider him as a possible leader of such a town. ¡°Plus, this is a world where the rulers are based on strength. Who would not show their strength at opportune moments if not for them to be at an advantage?¡±

    Argentum had nothing to say to Felix¡¯s question. Of course, it was not because he did not have any words to say to the question, but instead, he felt like if he answered, he would be dragged deeper into what seemed to be a trap.

    A trap that would give him no choice but to be the leader of Verdant Breeze Town.

    With that in mind, Argentum went ahead and changed the topic in an instant as he said, ¡°In any case, I don¡¯t have the qualifications to be the leader of such a town. I don¡¯t have enough strength to be able to maintain the position of leader.¡±

    ¡°Oh?¡± Felix raised his eyebrows as he heard those words, replying with a question as he said, ¡°Not enough strength? But you were able to make the guards obey you because you had enough strength to do so?¡±

    ¡°Do remember that I¡¯m just a Normal-grade Pseudo-Animate, Felix,¡± Argentum said in response, letting out a short sigh after that. ¡°I¡¯ve already shown you my full power back in your inheritance, but that level ofbat power is something I can only maintain for an incredibly short time. For the most part, I relied on Blob to make the guards wary of our strength, not mine.¡±

    ¡°Haah¡­¡± Felix could not help but let out a sigh of his own after hearing that, feeling Argentum¡¯s determination of not epting the position. Naturally, he was still thinking of ways to make Argentum ept the position of bing the leader of Verdant Breeze Town, since he felt like it was a good tform for him to be well-known throughout the continent. But at this moment, he could not help but mutter, ¡°You know Argentum? You¡¯re one tough cookie to cra¡ª¡±

    ¡°Hm? Could you repeat that?¡± Argentum asked Felix as he noticed that he stopped in his sentence just as he was about to finish. But unfortunately for Argentum, it seemed like the statement would not be repeated as a grin was stered on Felix¡¯s face once more. This time though, the grin was incredibly wide, making Argentum feel like he was looking at the crescent moon instead of a grin.

    ¡°Hehehe¡­¡± Letting out a low chuckle, Felix imitated the sound of one clearing their throat as he said in a sarcastic tone while shrugging his shoulders, ¡°Oh, well. Since you don¡¯t want to ept the position, then I guess I won¡¯t tell you the benefits of bing a leader.¡±

    In response, Argentum briefly radiated an aura of curiosity, to which he suppressed as he felt like he was being led to a trap. Nevertheless, he still asked him, ¡°And what benefit would that be?¡±

    ¡°You don¡¯t need to hear it,¡± Felix said as he waved his hands, non-verbally telling Argentum that he shouldn¡¯t listen to it if he did not want to be the leader of Verdant Breeze Town. Ironically, Felix increased the distance between the two of them and started to speak in a hushed tone. Of course, with the help of Argentum¡¯s enhanced senses, he was able to hear it pretty easily.

    ¡°I just remembered something I¡¯ve heard a few hundred years ago that, if you be the leader of a settlement, you gain a boost in power akin to bing the owner of inheritances. Of course, the stronger the settlement, the higher the boost. Unfortunately, you don¡¯t want to be the leader anyway, so I won¡¯t persuade anymo¡ª¡± Felix muttered to himself, only to stop as he felt a hand on his shoulder.

    Turning around, he noticed that Argentum was looking at him with an ted and expectant expression. Imitating the sound of coughing, Argentum then asked Felix, ¡°So you¡¯re telling me that I can obtain a boost in power if I be the leader of this town? Alright, I¡¯ll ept it.¡±

    ¡°¡­¡± Felix was left at a loss for words at Argentum¡¯s sudden change in personality. Just a while ago, Argentum was thinking that bing a leader was not a perfect fit for him, but after hearing that he would be stronger if he did it, he epted?

    ¡®Does that mean whenever I request Argentum to do something, I should always talk about the benefits of doing it beforehand?¡¯ he thought to himself soon after, thinking that Argentum was the first being he had met that was incredibly profit-oriented.

    Scratching his head to relieve the awkward atmosphere in the surroundings, Felix let out an awkward chuckle as he lightly smiled, saying, ¡°Well, I¡¯m d you ept. Trust me, bing the leader of this town would help you out in the long run. Not only would yourbat power increase, but you would also have an army of people at your beck and call to help you out, whenever and wherever it may be.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ve never thought of it from that perspective,¡± Argentum said as a follow-up to Felix¡¯s statement,mitting thest sentence Felix said to his mind. He then pondered over something for a bit before going ahead and focusing his attention on the notebook beside the four sks.

    He then skimmed through the notebook, eventually realizing that this notebook was far more precious than he thought. At first, he thought that this notebook would only contain a bit of information regarding the four sks, but who knew that this notebook would actually detail the recipes of the four concoctions, as well as its previous iterations that might result in a stronger effect?

    With this in mind, he focused his vision back at Felix and asked him, ¡°Do you really not want anything from this manor, Felix?¡±

    ¡°Mybat power is far higher than yours,¡± Felix responded in a slightly indifferent tone. ¡°Plus I¡¯ve already undergone three Power Baptisms. You could consider my level of strength as someone who stands at the peak.¡±

    ¡°In other words, the items in this manor hold no interest for me,¡± Felix added, only for him to be silent as Argentum raised a sk filled with a blue viscous fluid. Even without focusing his aura on the sk, Felix knew very well that this sk contained an extremely dense concentration of the Water element, giving him the feeling that if he consumed it, his control over the Water element would slightly improve. Of course, to Felix, even a slight improvement was more than enough to increase hisbat power by a few times.

    Seeing Felix¡¯s eyes fixate on the sk he held up, Argentum let out an inward chortle as he exined what was inside the sk, saying, ¡°Heaven¡¯s Water Potion. That¡¯s the name of the potion. It increases your perception of the Water element by multiple degrees for a long amount of time. To someone like you, who¡¯s well-versed in the Water element, wouldn¡¯t you like your control over it to be better?¡±

    ¡°Well, that¡­¡± Felix said, eventually finding out that he had no words to say. In the end, he let out a sigh as he felt like Argentum was just doing the same thing he did to him a while ago, which he had no problem with. Kindness begets kindness. The same thing applies to other things. Tidying up his suit, he said, ¡°Does that mean you¡¯re giving me that sk?¡±

    ¡°Nope.¡± Argentum shook his head, making Felix slightly dejected. But just as Felix thought that he had to give up something in exchange for the sk, Argentum¡¯s words shocked him as he said, ¡°Instead, I¡¯m giving you the recipe for you to create the contents inside this sk at any quantity.¡±

    In an instant, Felix could not help but radiate an excited aura, wondering how much of an improvement he would gain after consuming something like that multiple times. But just as he was about to ept, he noticed that a slightly mocking aura was radiating from Argentum, prompting him to think that there was a catch to epting his offer.

    Slightly cautious, he asked, ¡°What¡¯s the catch if I ept?¡±

    ¡°Just give me a bit more control over your inheritance, that¡¯s all,¡± Argentum replied with a light giggle that was slightly filled with mocking intent. ¡°Around 5 percent, perhaps?¡±

    ¡°Fine,¡± Felix said as he let out a defeated sigh. Although 5% was not a lot to him, it would still reduce hisbat power by quite a considerable degree. In the end, he consoled himself with the idea that he was going to increase his power with the concoction.

    With the deal now being made between the two of them, Argentum did not hesitate to give Felix the recipe of the Heaven¡¯s Water Potion through a few strands of energy, to which Felixmitted to memory. Soon after that, Argentum went ahead and kept the four sks and the notebook inside the system¡¯s inventory. With those items kept, he then looked at Felix and said, ¡°Let¡¯s go upstairs and meet up with Blob. After that, let¡¯s announce the new leader of the town.¡±

    Felix nodded in response before making their way out of the secret room, slowly heading towards the second floor of the manor where the library was located. Along the way, Felix could not help but ask Argentum, ¡°Now that I think about it, what are you going to do with the guard that was elected by the other guards? Are you going to make the election null and void as you announce your ascension to the position?¡±

    Surprisingly, Argentum shook his head as he recalled the thoughts he had in mind after deciding to be the leader of Verdant Breeze Town. He soon responded, ¡°I¡¯ve thought up of a good use for that elected guard.¡±

    He then continued, ¡°Since I¡¯m still a Pseudo-Animate, it would be dangerous for me to be in town, since multiple Animates might try and capture me for profit. I¡¯ve decided to take an Animate form first before truly taking the position of leader.¡±

    ¡°Before then, I¡¯ll let the elected guard be a proxy for me,¡± he added as he looked at Felix¡¯s expression. Unexpectedly, no change could be found on Felix¡¯s face. As to the reason why Argentum was looking intently at Felix¡¯s face, it was because he wanted to find out if other Pseudo-Animates, especially strong ones like Felix, knew of ways wherein one could be an Animate even as a Pseudo-Animate.

    Seeing the indifferent expression on Felix¡¯s face, it seemed like there were ways to do so, prompting Argentum to make a mental note to ask Felix after everything here was done.

    Eventually, the two of them had arrived at the entrance of the library, only to see Blob making his way out. Briefly radiating a surprised aura, Blob said to the two, ¡°I didn¡¯t expect you two toe here and meet up with me.¡±

    In response, Argentum let out a light chuckle as he asked Blob, ¡°Did you find some good skills to learn, Blob?¡±

    ¡°Sure did,¡± Blob radiated an ted and satisfied aura as he responded to Argentum¡¯s question. He then added, ¡°As long as I polish these skills to a certain level, it would definitely help you out, Argentum.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m d to hear that,¡± Argentum said as he let out an aura of satisfaction of his own. He then looked at the two with the same aura before saying, ¡°Since we have no other business to do in this manor, it¡¯s time for us to go back to those guards.¡±

    ¡°A silent yet huge change is about to happen to this town.¡±

    ¡ª¡ª¨C

    Want to see some official art of IRAAS? Want to get additional perks?

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    Hope to see you there!

 Chapter 268: Advent of a New Age

    Chapter 268: Advent of a New Age

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    Just like before, with the help of Felix¡¯s abilities, the three of them exited the manor and arrived in front of the guards at outrageous speeds, only taking a few seconds to do so. Due to the suddenness of their arrival, the guards, who were chatting with one another with smiles and ted auras surrounding their bodies, could not help but slightly freeze up as all of them were instantly bombarded by a deep yet suffocating aura. Specifically, Felix¡¯s aura.

    In an instant, the guards hastily organized themselves into formation in front of the three, with every one of them making sure that the other guards beside them were properly positioned. After that, all of them went ahead and radiated imposing auras. They then simultaneously took in deep breaths before shouting to the three, ¡°Wee back, esteemed sirs!¡±

    Looking at the change of attitude the guards had undergone through after they had left for the manor for only a few minutes, the three could not help but look at each other for a bit before looking at the guards, all of them radiating auras of confusion. The aura of confusion was more prominent on Argentum, wondering why these guards were treating them like this.

    Unsurprisingly, it did not take long for Argentum toe to a conclusion as he nced at Felix, remembering once again that the world followed thews of the jungle where the strong ruled over the weak. He could not help but slightly scratch his head as he thought to himself, ¡®Would the guards do something like this if only I and Blob were here?¡¯

    Pondering over it for a bit, he thought that the answer to his question was a big maybe. Although the former leader and Blob were equal to each other in terms of defensive stats, in terms of offense, the two of them werecking against the former leader, who had been stuck at the Rank 3 level for a long time. To him, the best possible oue in that fight would be a stalemate. If he could persuade the guards to move as well, then they might be able to imprison him.

    Nevertheless, after thinking about it for a bit, Argentum ced the thought to the back of his head as he let out a light sigh. Catching their attention through imitating a light cough, he then said to them, ¡°Uh¡­should Imand you guys or something? I¡¯m not really used to stuff like these.¡±

    ¡°Either way,e closer,¡± he continued before adding, ¡°I have something to say to you guys.¡±

    In response, the guards looked at each other for a bit before deciding to follow Argentum¡¯s words. In a matter of a minute or so, the guards soon organized themselves in front of Argentum and the other two in a semicircle, making sure that each guard surrounding them would be able to hear his words clearly. Briefly thinking that these guards would surely be a good asset in the future, he then imitated the sound of one clearing their throat as he asked them, ¡°Have you guys made up your minds already?¡±

    It took no more than an instant for the guards to profusely nod as they then shifted their gazes towards a specific guard in the semicircle. Of course, with the guards doing it, Argentum and the other two could not help but look towards the direction they were looking at as well, revealing a normal-looking guard in front of their field of vision.

    Then again, the guard only looked normal in terms of appearance. But in terms of the aura he radiated, to Felix and Argentum, they could sense that beneath the natural killing intent each guard had to protect their town, he also had apassionate and ambitious side. To the two, he gave off the feeling that he was willing to do anything to improve the lives of the citizens in this town.

    Not long after, Felix, who was behind Argentum, sent out a strand of energy towards him and said, ¡°The guy they chose seems to fit the bill of a good leader. He hasbat experience, gives off the feeling that everything he does is calcted, and not to mention, the innate kindness he has. Then again, it¡¯s still up to you to choose as to whether or not he bes your proxy.¡±

    ¡°If you enumerate his good points that way, then there¡¯s no way I can¡¯t make him the proxy,¡± Argentum replied with a light chuckle as he sent back a strand of his own. He then focused his sense of vision towards the guard everyone was looking at and asked him calmly, ¡°Name?¡±

    ¡°I-It would be Delmann, sir,¡± the guard, who was not expecting Argentum to ask him, replied timidly. In response, Argentum repeated his name a few times in his mind before asking a follow-up question, saying, ¡°Did the other guards force you to take up the position, or did all of youe to a consensus?¡±

    ¡°We havee to a consensus, sir,¡± one of the guards went ahead and replied to Argentum¡¯s question. Soon after, the other guards repeated the same thing as light smiles were stered on their faces. Although they were still scared of the fact that speaking up would lead to them ending up the same fate as their former leader, they were proud of the fact that all of them did not argue over who the next leader of Verdant Breeze Town would be.

    In their minds, Delmann was someone who embodied the true spirit of a guard, even though he had only been a guard for a couple of years. All of them were well-acquainted with him, and knew as to how he would not stop at anything to make sure that the town was safe. Of course, there were other reasons as to why they chose him, but these two stood out to them since they were guards as well.

    ¡°I see.¡± After letting the other guards speak up for Delmann, Argentum soon nodded in understanding, taking everything he heard from them into consideration. Eventually, he gestured with his hands to silence them, only to remember something. He then asked them, ¡°Do you think the other guards we threw a while ago would agree with this choice?¡±

    ¡°We do.¡± Surprisingly, a few voices spoke up, prompting Argentum to focus his vision on them. He soon noticed that these guards had a few holes in their uniforms, unlike their otherrades. Not only that, but a few areas of their bodies had some bruises, leading Argentum to conclude that the guards they threw a while ago actually came back.

    ¡®I wonder how that optimistic guy is doing,¡¯ he soon thought, recalling the man who tried to rouse the wills of the guards to fight a few times, only to fail.

    ¡°Well, since I think every guard in this town has agreed to let Delmann be the leader¡­¡± Argentum soon said after a few moments of contemtion, making the guards eager to hear his next words¡­only to have their expectations turned upside down in an instant.

    ¡°I shall be the new leader of Verdant Breeze Town,¡± Argentum followed up soon after, instantly sensing the tense atmosphere surrounding the guards. Knowing what would happen if he did not speak up soon, he hastily said, ¡°Anyways, before you get angry at me, I¡¯ll let all of you know that I won¡¯t be ruling the town at this instant.¡±

    ¡°Huh? What do you mean by that?¡± one of the guards could not help but ask in confusion as the guards gradually calmed down. In response, Argentum radiated a slightly gleeful aura as he lightly giggled, saying, ¡°In other words, I¡¯ll have a person be my proxy in the meantime.¡±

    ¡°Delmann¡­¡± he soon focused his sense of vision back at Delmann, who was looking back at him with a slightly expectant gaze. ¡°Are you willing to be the de facto leader of Verdant Breeze Town until Ie to officially take the role?¡±

    ¡°Er¡­¡± At first, Delmann did not know what to respond, looking at the guards beside him. He soon noticed that the expressions of the guards were somewhat angry at first, which then turned into contemtion, before eventually turning into excitement. Oblivious to what the other guards had in mind, Delmann could not help but ask them, ¡°What are you guys thinking about?¡±

    One of the guards beside them responded to his question, whispering in his ear, ¡°Although it¡¯s a bit saddening for you to only be the de facto leader of the town for a temporary time, think about it from a different perspective.¡±

    Soon after, another guard whispered in his ear, continuing where the first one left off as they said, ¡°With you leading the town at the helm and these strong people taking on the ce of our backers, don¡¯t you think the town would enter a period of greater prosperity?¡±

    It did not take long for Delmann to ponder over it ande to the conclusion that it could happen. With that in mind, as well as the urging of the other guards surrounding him, Delmann finally responded to Argentum with a nod as he said in a firm yet gentle tone, ¡°I am willing.¡±

    ¡°Well, that settles that,¡± Argentum said in response to his words, letting out a light chuckle after that. He then told him, ¡°Congrattions on bing the leader of the town. Speaking of which, could youe with me for a second, Delmann?¡±

    ¡°Uh¡­sure.¡± Delmann nodded as he went closer to where Argentum was. He was then led by Argentum to a ce where the other guards, as well as Argentum¡¯spanions, would not be able to hear their conversation easily. Focusing his sense of vision onto Delmann¡¯s eyes, Argentum took in a deep breath before saying, ¡°I don¡¯t know how long it¡¯ll be before Ie and take over your role, but please do your best to make sure everyone in this town lives a good life.¡±

    Hearing Argentum¡¯s words, Delmann could not help but feel touched as he profusely nodded, saying, ¡°I definitely will.¡± On the other hand, Argentum took note of Delmann¡¯s response, and inwardly smiled. As long as the citizens of the town are treated properly, they¡¯ll definitely reciprocate this kindness in the future, he thought.

    ¡°Also, once Ie back to this town, I might have another appearance by then, so¡­¡± Argentum said not long after before telling him, ¡°We should make a code phrase that only the two of us will know.¡±

    And so, after that, the two went ahead and exchanged their opinions back and forth through the usage of energy strands, eventuallying to an agreement as the two felt like the code phrase they made was simple enough for them to recognize, andplex enough for others to not get it.

    They then talk about the goals the town should have while Argentum was gone, with Delmann giving the green light on goals that seemed to be feasible in the short term. At the end of their discussion, Argentum told him that his friend would keep an eye on the town from time to time, making Delmann let out a sigh of relief.

    After that, the two of them came back to where the guards, as well as Felix and Blob, were. As he arrived, Argentum could not help but inwardly chuckle at himself as he thought, ¡®Who knew Aurus would actually be good at stuff like management?¡¯

    While he was talking with Delmann a while ago, he was cross-referencing his words with the things Aurus said in his memories, specifically the ones that were rted to managing resources and people. Although Aurus always told others that he was an independent yer in ISE, in actuality, he only went solo after he became a Transcendent level yer.

    Feeling that all of the problems for now in this town had been resolved, Argentum focused his vision on the guards and said, ¡°Make sure you do your duties well, okay guys?¡±

    ¡°Sir, yes, sir!¡± the guards simultaneously replied with excited expressions. Argentum then focused his vision onto Delmann and said, ¡°Don¡¯t let me down.¡±

    ¡°I won¡¯t, sir,¡± Delmann said in response, a light smile stered on his face. Through their private conversation a while ago, Delmann came to learn of Argentum¡¯s name, but decided to follow how the other guards called him to not attract more attention towards Argentum.

    Nodding in response to Delmann¡¯s words, Argentum then looked at Blob and Felix and asked them, ¡°Well, then. Shall we take our leave?¡±

    ¡°Sure,¡± Felix replied. As for Blob, he nodded in response. With both of them agreeing, Argentum took onest look at the guards and said, ¡°I hope to see you all in the future stronger than before.¡±

    Hearing those words, the guards felt like their hearts were warmed as they had not experienced such a sensation before from their former leader. With smiles on their faces, the guards then answered, ¡°We won¡¯t let you down!¡±

    ¡°Hehe.¡± Argentum let out a light chortle in response to that before sending a strand of energy to Felix. In it were the words, ¡°Take us a few kilometers away from the center of the town. I and Blob still have something to do around these areas.¡±

    Soon after, Felix nodded as he looked at Argentum before snapping his fingers, casting a blue magic circle that enveloped the three of them in an instant.

    Whoosh!

    Apanied by a light gust of wind, the three of them had disappeared from the sights of the guards as they basked under the dim moonlight. Nevertheless, they looked at the area where the three had disappeared for a bit with expectant expressions. They then simultaneously looked up at the moon up above as the same thought crossed their minds.

    A new chapter on Verdant Breeze Town¡¯s history has begun.

    ¡ª¡ª¨C

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    Hope to see you there!

 Chapter 269: A Long-awaited Trial

    Chapter 269: A Long-awaited Trial

    Whoosh!

    A few seconds after the trio had disappeared in front of the guards in Verdant Breeze Town, the three soon appeared in the middle of what seemed to be ins. With the blue magic circle enveloping them throughout the teleportation gradually disappearing, the three were eventually able to see their surroundings at greater detail, with Felix and Argentum being able to see more than Blob.

    Unsurprisingly, the two noticed that a kilometer or so away from them, one would be able to enter a small forest if one headed towards a certain direction. As for Verdant Breeze Town, just as Argentum requested from Felix, the distance between them was more or less around 5 kilometers or so, which allowed Argentum to still see the outline of the town, albeit vaguely.

    ¡°So¡­why did you request me to bring you two here in what seems to be the middle of nowhere?¡± After doing a brief scan of the surroundings, Felix soon focused his attention on Argentum before asking this question. In response, Argentum let out a slightly awkward chuckle before focusing his sense of vision onto Blob. Blob, on the other hand, noticed Argentum¡¯s gaze and thought that he might be tired after speaking all this time. With that in mind, Blob imitated the sound of one clearing their throat to attract Felix¡¯s attention before responding.

    ¡°To make sure that the guards were on our side before we fought against the leader you killed, Argentum decided to make a deal with the guards. Fortunately, it had seeded. If not, we might have a few injuries on our bodies before you arrived,¡± Blob said, letting out a light chuckle at the end of his statement.

    ¡°And what could that deal be?¡± Felix asked soon after. This time, it was Argentum who replied, saying, ¡°We told them that if they did not make a move on us, we would ughter all of the beasts surrounding the town, making sure that they wouldn¡¯t have to defend against the beasts for about a month or so.¡±

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡± Felix pondered over the deal Argentum made with them for a bit before saying, ¡°By allowing them to take a breather for a month, you would give them the chance to train and improve theirbat power, thus making their subsequent fights against beasts easier.¡±

    ¡°You truly have some good foresight, Argentum,¡± he said not long after as he let out a light chuckle. He then added, ¡°With that kind of foresight, you would surely be a great leader of Verdant Breeze Town.¡±

    ¡°¡­¡± Listening to Felix¡¯s conclusion from his and Blob¡¯s statements, Argentum was left at a loss for words. Never once did that thought cross in his mind as he made the deal. The only thought he had back then was to maximize the number of profits he could get from antagonizing the former leader of Verdant Breeze Town.

    Nevertheless, this did not stop Blob from looking at his creator with an aura of awe and admiration as he said, ¡°To think that Argentum was thinking that far ahead¡­incredible.¡±

    In response, Argentum let out an awkward chuckle as he pondered over ways to change the topic within seconds. Using the old coughing to change the topic trick, he then told Felix, ¡°Anyways, that¡¯s why we¡¯re here in an area that¡¯s still close to Verdant Breeze Town in a way.¡±

    ¡°I see.¡± Felix nodded in understanding. At this point, Argentum thought that after Felix had inquired on what the two of them were about to do, he would leave. But for some reason, with his index finger and thumb under his chin, Felix started to contemte for a bit while he still looked like a handsome man in a blue suit. After a while, an expression of enlightenment appeared on his face as he said to Argentum, ¡°I¡¯ve made up my mind.¡±

    ¡°Hm?¡± Argentum uttered in response. What was Felix pertaining to when he said he made up his mind? Just as he was about to ask Felix just that, Felix was one step ahead of him, letting out a light chuckle as he asked him, ¡°Mind if I help you out in killing the beasts?¡±

    ¡°Eh? What¡¯s with the sudden question?¡± Argentum asked as a response to his question, wondering what was going on inside Felix¡¯s mind as he asked that. Thankfully, Felix took no offense to his question, recalling what was in his mind a while ago before taking in a deep breath. He then replied, ¡°Well¡­I¡¯m an incredibly strong guy that can kill beasts that would be difficult to defeat at their current strength with just the simple snap of a finger.¡±

    ¡°Wouldn¡¯t it be stupid to not use my power to fulfill your end of the deal?¡± he added soon after, to which Argentum hastily replied, ¡°Well, yes¡­but¡­¡±

    ¡°Are you feeling bad that it looks like you¡¯re using my power for your own benefit?¡± Felix asked Argentum not long after, to which Argentum nodded without hesitation. Seeing Argentum nod, Felix let out a chortle as he told him, ¡°Let me be the first to say that you shouldn¡¯t feel bad. This world naturally operates in that manner.¡±

    ¡°If you still feel bad, just think of it as my investment into your future,¡± Felix continued with a light smile on his face. He soon added, ¡°And if you still feel bad even if I said that, then just think of it as repayment for the recipe you gave me. I feel like an additional 5% control over my inheritance is not enough repayment for the recipe you gave me, which would help me out in the long run.¡±

    ¡°I¡­¡± Argentum tried to find the words to say as a counterargument to Felix¡¯s reasoning, only for him to give up in the end as he let out a long sigh.

    ¡®I guess I should ept his offer, lest he thinks that I¡¯m not giving him respect,¡¯ he thought to himself as he sighed. After a few seconds of silence, he then looked at Felix and said, ¡°Alright, fine. Go ahead and kill the beasts.¡±

    ¡°Finally,¡± Felix let out a chortle as he raised his right hand, ready to snap at any time as all of the energy in his body was redirected towards the tips of two fingers. Just as he was about to snap his fingers, Felix briefly suppressed his urge to do so as he looked at Argentum once more, asking, ¡°Do you want me to snap them away into nothingness, or just kill them, leaving their corpses there?¡±

    ¡°Thetter,¡± Argentum said without hesitation. ¡°I¡¯d be asking too much if I asked you to clean up the corpses of the beasts as well.¡±

    ¡°Fair point.¡± Although Felix thought that it was fine for him to clean up the corpses as well since it would probably take a long time for Argentum to do so, he decided to follow Argentum¡¯s wishes since he had a feeling that if he gave Argentum a few more benefits, Argentum would feel immense guilt from the feeling of using him.

    Snap!

    And with the conversation between now over, Felix went ahead and snapped his fingers without hesitation, allowing a shockwave of energy to spread throughout arge area in a matter of an instant. Surprisingly, even though both Blob and Argentum felt that the intent of destruction behind that simple snap was enough for the two to disappear from the face of this world, for some reason, the energy dodged the two of them, heading towards other entities instead.

    After half a minute or so, multiple howls, screams, and roars could be heard resounding throughout the area they were at, forming a symphony of wails. What all of the wails had inmon was the fact that all of them made the three feel the pain those who wailed felt, the area eventuallying to a lull after a minute or so as multiple faint thuds resounded throughout the area simultaneously.

    Wiping off the dust on his suit, Felix shed a smile at Argentum as he said, ¡°And with that, you can consider us even. Once I get back, I¡¯ll make sure to increase your control over the inheritance by 5%.¡±

    ¡°d to hear that,¡± Argentum said in response to Felix¡¯s words, radiating an aura of cheerfulness as a way to reciprocate Felix¡¯s happiness. Just as Felix was about to snap his fingers once more, a thought suddenly surfaced in his mind, prompting him to look at Argentum once more as he shyly asked with an awkward chuckle, ¡°At this point, I think I¡¯m asking too much from you but¡­¡±

    ¡°Do you want your teacher to know about the existence of the godly potions? Or do you want to keep them a secret?¡±

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡± Argentum pondered over the question soon after, thinking that it might be a good idea for him to tell her about the existence of the potion. Not only would it give him another trump card that might have incredibly highbat power on Felix¡¯s level or higher, but it would also allow him to use it as a bargaining chip to increase his control over the me Spirit Inheritance.

    ¡°Though she might not be happy if I decide to go over 50%,¡± Argentum muttered to himself, inwardly chuckling. A few secondster, Argentum looked at Felix with the cheerful aura still surrounding him before saying, ¡°Yeah, that¡¯s fine. It would allow Teacher to grow in strength as well.¡±

    ¡°What a generous student¡­¡± Felix could not help but say after hearing Argentum¡¯s statement, eventually bidding farewell to both Blob and Argentum as he snapped his fingers soon after, opening up a rift. After passing through the rift, Felix soon disappeared from both Argentum and Blob¡¯s field of vision as the rift soon closed.

    ¡°So¡­¡± With Felix now gone, Blob looked at Argentum and asked, ¡°What now?¡±

    ¡°Since we¡¯ve already reached the final destination in my n, it¡¯s time for us to head back to where I originally came from,¡± Argentum said in response, only for him to lightly chuckle with excitement as he soon continued, ¡°But then, that would be breaking my promise to myself.¡±

    ¡°Your promise to yourself?¡± Blob could not help but ask, to which Argentum responded, ¡°Before you were made, I attempted a Power Baptism. I swore to myself that after I had finished what I had to do in Verdant Breeze Town, I would attempt the Power Baptism again.¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t you think a ce like this is a great ce for me to undergo a Power Baptism?¡± Argentum rhetorically questioned Blob before letting out a slightly maniacalugh as arge gust of wind blew through their surroundings.

    Ding!

    ¡®Your control over the Grand Blue Inheritance has slightly increased.¡¯

    Hearing a notification from the system just as he was finishedughing, Argentum went ahead and opened his notification screen. Soon after, he could not help but say with a light giggle, ¡°As expected from Felix. Incredibly fast.¡±

    ¡°Anyways, it¡¯s time for me to start my second attempt,¡± he soon muttered to himself as he allowed his aura to be released at its full power. While he was doing so, Argentum could not help but ask him, ¡°Will you need my help in the Power Baptism?¡±

    ¡°Definitely,¡± Argentum looked at Blob and radiated an expectant aura. He then continued, ¡°I¡¯ll have to borrow that shield you conjured for your Power Baptism. For now, be on standby.¡±

    ¡°Alright.¡± Blob nodded in response to Argentum¡¯s orders, allowing him to be at ease as he soonmanded, ¡°System, use all of the Power Baptism Energy I have to trigger a Power Baptism!¡±

    Ding!

    In an instant, Argentum heard a notification sound from the system, which was soon followed by the system¡¯s feminine-sounding voice as it said, ¡°The user does not have enough energy to trigger a Power Baptism.¡±

    ¡°Ah, right,¡± he said to himself not long after as he nced at Argentum. It was at that moment that he remembered that he used his spare bar of Power Baptism Energy on Blob. Scratching his head for a bit as he felt that the hype he had built up disappeared in an instant, he muttered to himself, ¡°Now where do I get more Power Baptism Energy? Only Animates could provide me with a lot of Power Baptism Energy.¡±

    ¡°Wait a second¡­¡± Repeating thest statement he said to himself over and over again, he then recalled the wails he heard resounding throughout the area a while ago, utilizing his enhanced senses to pinpoint the closest location where those wails came from. Casting the two strongest movement speed boosting spells he had in his arsenal, he then dashed towards a certain direction, prompting Blob to ask, ¡°Argentum! Where are you going?¡±

    ¡°Just going to grab some Power Baptism Energy for a bit!¡± Argentum responded with a shout, mostly due to the fact that he was already far away from where Blob was. Indeed, as he repeated the statement in his mind, it urred to him that beasts were Animates as well. Thinking that it was a bit easier for beasts to ascend to a ss, he thought that he could obtain a single bar of Power Baptism Energy from a single beast.

    After half a minute or so, he soon found the corpse of what seemed to be a wolf in the deeper reaches of the forest. Without hesitation, he went ahead andmanded the system to convert the energy inside the corpse into Power Baptism Energy, with the system doing its usual stuff soon after that.

    Ding!

    ¡®The user has obtained more than enough energy to undergo a Power Baptism. Excess energy shall be stored for future use.¡¯

    ¡°Lucky,¡± Argentum said to himself in a cheerful tone as he read through the notification he had received. He could not help but think that Animates truly had a lot of energy inside their bodies. With that in mind, he could not help but ponder as to how much energy he would obtain from an Inanimate or a Pseudo-Animate.

    Thankfully, that moment of contemtion did notst long as he remembered the reason why he was here, hastily heading back to where Blob was as he shouted, ¡°Blob, prepare the shield!¡±

    ¡°Alright!¡± Blob shouted back in response before adding, ¡°[Aegis of the Grand Ignis]!¡±

    Whoosh!

    In an instant, arge shield made out of Fire energy particles soon manifested in front of Blob¡¯s field of vision, prompting him to grip on it tightly before throwing it towards Argentum.

    ¡°Catch!¡±

    Swish!

    Fortunately, the timing of Blob¡¯s throw was right, allowing Argentum to grip on the shield tightly before casting spells on it.

    ¡°[Higher Algor Magic: Aqua Burst Omega, Second Verse]!¡±

    ¡°[Higher Algor Magic: Aqua Benefica Grandia]!¡±

    Fwoosh!

    After casting two spells on it, the size of the shield had grown by a decent degree as three pairs of wings made out of Water energy particles manifested on its edges. Not only that, but he felt like the shield had be easier to wield while the defense it brought had improved by multiple notches.

    Eventually, Argentum stopped dashing as he looked at the moon hanging in the sky. Without hesitation, he soon shouted, ¡°System, use all of the energy I have to trigger a Power Baptism!¡±

    Rumble¡­rumble¡­

    Not even a few seconds have passed since Argentum was finishedmanding the system, but dark clouds had already appeared a few thousand meters above where he stood.

    Ding!

    ¡®The user has attempted a Power Baptism!¡¯

    ¡®After adjusting the difficulty of the trial based on the user¡¯s current power, the decided tribtion shall be¡­¡¯

    ¡®The Blossoming Lc Lightning Tribtion!¡¯

    Being notified by the system that he had obtained new notifications, Argentum soon read through the notifications he had received, eventually radiating an aura of madness amidst the excitement he felt.

    He then looked up at the dark clouds before letting out a maniacalugh.

    ¡°Bring it on!¡±

 Chapter 270: Blossoming Lilac, Spiralis Tempestria

    Chapter 270: Blossoming Lc, Spiralis Tempestria

    As he shouted at the sky after letting out a maniacalugh, the dark clouds started to gather its energy in preparation for the Power Baptism that Argentum was about to undergo. Naturally, the dark clouds first formed red lightning as a red ball of light could be seen forming at the center of it all, radiating off an intent of destruction that Argentum was quite familiar with. But due to the fact that he had witnessed the unbelievable intent of destruction a blue lightning bolt held, which was the congregation of 1000 red lightning bolts, the feeling of fear he felt right now was more or less negligible.

    ¡°Ah, right. I should enhance mybat power instead of dawdling around,¡± he said to himself in realization while waiting for the first bolt to strike. He then went ahead and ced the shield he had just enhanced on the ground before going ahead and muttering incantations for a few spells. Of course, the spells he was muttering the incantations to were naturally the spells he used when he decided to increase Blob¡¯s chances of clearing his first Power Baptism.

    ¡°[Higher Zephyr Magic: Zephyr Burst Omega, Second Verse]!¡±

    ¡°[Higher Ignis Magic: Ignis Burst Omega, Second Verse]!¡±

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    With two balls of energy, which were red and green respectively, soon being absorbed by his body, the aura radiating from Argentum had intensified in pressure in an instant. He then closed his sense of vision for a bit to limate himself to the level of power he was going to use for this tribtion of his. Soon after, he took a nce up at the dark clouds, noticing that the condensation of red lightning wasn¡¯t stopping anytime soon, feeling the intent of destruction from it exponentially increasing with every passing second.

    He then focused his sense of vision onto his limbs before focusing it on the aegis thatid on the ground, waiting to be held by Argentum. Looking at the aegis for a bit more, he decided to go ahead and mutter a few more incantations, thinking that the spells he had just cast might not be enough for him to sessfully clear the Power Baptism, seeing that the lightning in the clouds was still brewing.

    ¡°[Higher Zephyr Magic: Zephyr Magna eliaris]!¡±

    ¡°[Higher Ignis Magic: Ignis Fervor Maxima]!¡±

    Around ten seconds or soter, two more balls of energy were absorbed by Argentum¡¯s body, intensifying the aura radiating from his body to a greater degree. At this point, Blob could not help but look at Argentum with slight surprise. The reason as to why he looked at Argentum with such an aura was because¡­the aura Blob felt from Argentum was surprisingly close to the aura he normally radiated. In other words, Argentum was giving off the feeling that he had thebat power of a Rank 2 to Rank 3 Animate.

    Unfortunately for Blob, it seemed that his shock would not end there as Argentum went ahead and activated the two status boosting skills he had in his arsenal, which were [Zephyr Tempest Brilliance++] and [Grand Azure Transformation++], being the higher-grade forms of [Zephyr Ascendance+] and [Great Blue Ascension+] respectively.

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    With the activation of those two skills, the aura Argentum was radiating was now at a level wherein Blob felt slight fear towards him. Noticing this, Blob could not help but close and open his sense of vision for a few times, wondering if the feeling he felt was true or not. Sensing that the feeling he got from Argentum did not disappear even if he closed his vision for a bit, or pinched himself to the point that a small part of his body gradually dispersed, Blob could not help but let out an aura of immense shock.

    As for Argentum, it was the first time he had gone all out since the trial in the Grand Blue Inheritance. Feeling the enhancements brought about by grinding all of his skills to their current level, Argentum had a hunch that he would easily be able to hit the 5000 point mark on the strength tester Felix had if he had the chance to do so once more.

    limating to the current amount of power coursing throughout his body, he went ahead and looked up at the dark clouds once more, noticing that the red lightning that darted throughout the clouds was now reced with the more powerful and more imposing purple lightning. Naturally, the light at the center of the dark clouds had also been changed to an intimidatingvender, making Argentum wonder if the lightning brewing in the clouds would intensify in its power once more.

    Fortunately for Argentum, the lightning stayed purple, even after waiting for a few minutes. It was at this point that Argentum realized why the tribtion he was undergoing was called the Blossoming Lc Lightning Tribtion. The word ¡®Lc¡¯ in the name pertained to the purple lightning that was brewing in the clouds.

    ¡®If that¡¯s the case, then why is the word ¡®Blossoming¡¯ part of the name?¡¯ he thought to himself soon after, only for him to hear a resounding p as a lightning bolt soon descended from the clouds, signaling that Argentum¡¯s Power Baptism had finally begun.

    Bzzt¡­crash!

    Unlike the insanely fast speeds of the blue lightning bolt that Blob had to withstand in his trial, Argentum was greeted by a purple lightning bolt that seemed to be taking its time. He did not know if it was because he had the experience of far more dangerous lightning bolts, or if it was because his strength had greatly increased, but either way, he felt that the purple lightning bolt was¡­too slow.

    Grabbing the aegis on the ground in a nonchnt manner as he watched the purple lightning bolt gradually make its way to hit him, he soon positioned the aegis above his head as he firmly gripped on it with one hand. Surprisingly, after he was finished doing so, he could not help but notice the aura Blob was radiating before focusing his vision on him and asking, ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡±

    Bang!

    But just as Blob was about to answer his question, the purple lightning bolt had finally connected with Argentum, striking with great force on the shield Argentum positioned over his head¡­or well, it was trying to.

    Due to the amount of strength coursing throughout Argentum¡¯s body at the moment, the shield did not move from its position at all, as if it was part of a statue. On the other hand, Argentum noticed that the purple lightning had collided with the aegis he held, feeling that a simple push on the aegis would shatter the bolt in an instant. Deciding to have a go, Argentum went ahead and did just that, only to realize that this feeling of his was actually correct.

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    The shattered remnants of the purple lightning bolt then made their way towards Argentum¡¯s body, filling with him a greater sense of power as the aura he was radiating had intensified by onefold in mere seconds. Looking up at the clouds to see whether or not the second lightning bolt was striking down soon, Argentum eventually concluded that he would be fine even if he did not pay attention to it.

    Recalling the question he had asked Blob just a while ago before being interrupted by the lightning, Argentum repeated the question one more time, to which Blob replied as he scratched his head, ¡°Well¡­I feel like the amount of strength you have right now is more than enough for you to clear the Power Baptism easily. Do you still need my help at your current level of strength?¡±

    ¡°Hey, we can¡¯t be too sure about that, okay?¡± Argentum replied before adding, ¡°A Power Baptism is always unpredictable. You don¡¯t know what could happen ne¡ª¡±

    Bzzt¡­crash! Crash!

    And soon, the second lightning bolt had finally struck down¡­as well as the third? Seeing this, Argentum briefly radiated an aura of confusion for a bit before deciding to go ahead and take on an offensive approach to shattering the bolts this time. Before the two lightning bolts were about three-fourths of the way to hitting Argentum, with his free hand, he conjured a bolt of wind, to which he threw at the bolts, making sure that both of them would be hit by it.

    Surprisingly, even though the bolt of wind was one of the weakest offensive spells he had in his arsenal, thanks to the number of buffs he currently had active, as well as the infusion of power the first lightning bolt gave him, the bolt was able to easily shatter the two lightning bolts, allowing Argentum¡¯sbat power to rise once more.

    At this point, Blob was left at a loss for words. Although his creator told him that he needed his help just in case any mishaps happen in the middle of the tribtion, by the looks of it, it seemed like Argentum would not have any issues with the trial at all. Without hesitation, Blob went ahead and distanced himself from Argentum, making sure that the distance between them was still enough for him to dash into action, even if he felt like he wouldn¡¯t be able to contribute anything.

    Around the time when Blob was halfway to distancing himself from Argentum, Argentum could not help but feel a bit sad that Blob distanced himself, prompting him to shout to catch Blob¡¯s attention. Unfortunately, before he could do so, the next round of lightning bolts came around, this time consisting of three purple lightning bolts. It was at this point that Argentum realized the pattern of the lightning bolts, with each consecutive round of bolts gaining an additional one whenpared to the previous one.

    With that in mind, he then went ahead and used the offensive approach and sent a bolt of wind flying towards the three purple lightning bolts without hesitation. Unfortunately, the bolt of wind was slightly off-trajectory, only shattering two of the three lightning bolts, allowing the remaining one to hit the aegis Argentum was wielding. Of course, with the amount of strength coursing throughout his body, a simple punch with the aegis as a fist was enough for thest bolt to shatter, increasing Argentum¡¯s strength by a notch yet again.

    ¡°Well that was slightly disappointing,¡± Argentum muttered to himself as he recalled how his throw of the wind bolt was not enough to shatter the three lightning bolts at once. Not long after, he told himself that he should practice aiming magic spells in preparation for situations where he needed precise aim.

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡± Noticing that the lightning in the clouds was still brewing with great ferocity, Argentum could not help but ponder over how easy it was for him to crush the first three rounds of purple lightning bolts without a problem, even though the first red lightning bolt from back then was enough for him to admit defeat. He muttered to himself in a questioning tone, ¡°I wonder what are the factors that decide the difficulty of a Power Baptism? Is it the innate strength of a being? Or does it include the being¡¯s skills as well?¡±

    After thinking about it for a bit, he had a hunch that it was more likely for it to be the former. But then, he decided that if he could clear the Power Baptism or not, he would ask the system this question.

    And with that out of the way, the fourth and fifth round of lightning bolts were easily cleared, with Argentum using both the enhanced aegis he had obtained from Blob, as well as the massive array of offensive spells he had, but only limited himself to using the bolt type spells.

    At this point, the amount of power coursing throughout his body was far beyond Blob¡¯s after he finished his Power Baptism. Blob could not help but agree to that notion as well, feeling immense fear even though a decent amount of distance separated the two from one another. He could not help but feel that even if 100 copies of himself at his peak were to fight against the current Argentum, Argentum would stille out victorious at the end.

    On the other hand, Argentum was looking at the clouds, wondering how many rounds he had left to undergo through to clear the Power Baptism. While he was doing so, he could not help but think about the name of the tribtion he was undergoing once more, muttering to himself, ¡°I¡¯ve already realized that the part ¡®Lc¡¯ in the name was the purple lightning I had to defend against, but so far, the ¡®Blossoming¡¯ part hasn¡¯t appeared yet.¡±

    Rumble¡­rumble¡­

    Letting out a loud rumble, as if it was calling for Argentum¡¯s attention, the dark clouds soon underwent a great change as the type of lightning darting through the clouds was not purple anymore. This shocked Argentum as he now felt like he would be in a bit of danger.

    In mere seconds, the purple lightning had transformed into the blue lightning bolts that Blob went up against in his Power Baptism, with the ball of light at the center following suit.

    But that was not all.

    The blue lightning bolts went ahead and transformed into another color as the intent of destruction was at a level far more powerful than all of the blue lightning boltsbined.

    Bzzt¡­crash!

    Unfortunately for Argentum, before he could go ahead and look at the color of the current lightning bolt, a lightning bolt struck down at him at incredible speeds, leaving Argentum no choice but to go fully defensive as he activated [Grand Azure Armor++], the evolved version of [Great Blue Armor+], donning him in a suit of beautifully designed armor made out of Water energy particles.

    Bang!

    In less than an instant, the lightning bolt arrived in front of Argentum, colliding with the aegis he held as Argentum felt himself sinking to the ground from the sheer force behind the lightning bolt. Then again, this current situation allowed Argentum to look at the color of the lightning bolt that collided with the aegis, briefly radiating an aura of confusion, which was soon followed by fear as the lightning bolt was a hue of incredibly dark blue.

    Argentum mustered all of the strength inside his body to push back on the lightning bolt, but no matter how much force he exerted, even going so far as to unleash 120% of his full strength, he was not able to gain an advantage. Instead, he sunk deeper and deeper as his legs were now half-submerged into the ground.

    Fortunately, the force behind the dark blue lightning bolt gradually dispersed, making Argentum feel like the hard part was over. But in actuality, the hard part was just about to begin.

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    In an instant, the dark blue lightning bolt changed directions as it flew into the air, before exploding into 10 blue lightning bolts, which then exploded into 10 purple lightning bolts each. In other words, 100 purple lightning bolts were now heading towards Argentum¡¯s way.

    But instead of looking at the sight with fear, Argentum uttered out a sound of understanding before saying, ¡°Ahh¡­so that¡¯s where the ¡®Blossoming¡¯ partes in.¡±

    ¡°Hup!¡± Finally understanding the reasoning behind the name, Argentum went ahead and jumped out of the ground before hastily chanting the most powerful offensive spell he had in his arsenal. As he looked at the 100 purple lightning bolts gradually making their way towards where they were, Argentum could not help but think, ¡®If an outsider were to look at this, they¡¯d definitely want to paint it.¡¯

    ¡®Unfortunately, it¡¯s prettyte at night so I¡¯ll keep this sight to myself,¡¯ he thought soon after as Argentum threw the aegis in the air before pushing both hands to the ground as he shouted¡­

    ¡°[Higher Zephyr Magic: Zephyr Spiralis Tempestria]!¡±

    Whoosh!

    Radiating out of his hands, a vortex of Wind energy particles soon formed around Argentum, hastily growing to a great height of around 20 meters as it attracted the purple lightning bolts that were supposed to head towards Argentum. After feeling that the spell he had cast had attracted all of the purple lightning bolts, he then stood up and loudly pped before shouting, ¡°[Spiralis Form: Supreme Copse]!¡±

    Bang!

    And just like that, the vortex surrounding Argentum had exploded, allowing a loud explosion sound to resound throughout the area, with the citizens living in Verdant Breeze Town being able to faintly hear the explosion sound. Nevertheless, apanying the explosion was the disappearance of the 100 purple lightning bolts as a surge of energy soon filled Argentum¡¯s body, increasing the strength he felt by multiple notches.

    Wondering if there was still more, Argentum could not help but look at the dark clouds above him, noticing not long after that the energy behind the lightning bolts darting through the gradually weakened, allowing him to let out a sigh of relief as he soon sat down on the ground.

    In that manner, Argentum¡¯s first Power Baptism was finally over.

    ¡ª¡ª¨C

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 Chapter 271: Requirement of the Origin

    Chapter 271: Requirement of the Origin

    Bang!

    While Argentum let out a sigh of relief as the dark clouds a few thousand meters over his head were gradually dissipating, the aegis that he threw in the air at thest moment had finallye down, digging a bit into the ground as it stood upright. After looking at the aegis for a bit, he then went ahead and stood up before lightly stretching, deactivating the buffs that he had cast on himself soon after.

    Around this moment, Blob finally reduced the gap between the two of them as he dashed towards his creator in an instant. With an aura of tion surrounding him, Blob could not help but shout, ¡°Congrattions on clearing your first Power Baptism, Argentum!¡±

    In response, Argentum let out a chuckle as he replied, ¡°Thanks.¡± He then added, ¡°To be honest, I was not expecting thest bolt to turn out like that. Did you expect that to happen?¡±

    Radiating a brief aura of contemtion, Blob soon shook his head as he responded, ¡°I did not expect that as well. At most, I only expected you to have the same number of lightning bolts as I did when I took my Power Baptism. When I saw that with every round of lightning, the number of lightning bolts increased, I could not help but wonder what made your trial turn out like that.¡±

    ¡°I guess the trial wanted to adjust its difficulty to the amount of power I had with all of the buffs,¡± Argentum joked before adding, ¡°You did see me punch those bolts without a problem, right?¡±

    ¡°And you told me that you needed my help just in case,¡± Blob said sarcastically as a response to Argentum¡¯s question. Imitating the sound of one clicking their tongue, he then muttered, ¡°Even thest round of bolts were easy for you to handle. If I were in your ce, I definitely would have be critically injured. Death might even be possible.¡±

    ¡°Well, let¡¯s forget the what-ifs of my trial,¡± Argentum said not long after as he ced his left hand on Blob¡¯s shoulder. With an aura of happiness and tion surrounding him, he told Blob, ¡°What matters is that I cleared it.¡±

    ¡°Yeah,¡± Blob nodded, letting out an aura of happiness as well. He then went silent for a bit, sensing the aura his creator was currently radiating for a short bit. A few secondster, he could not help but let out a sigh, which was soon followed by a chuckle with a hint of mockery, prompting Argentum to ask Blob, ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡±

    Removing Argentum¡¯s hand on his shoulder, Blob went ahead and sat down on the ground, his sense of vision focused on the starry sky up above. Letting out another sigh, he finally told Argentum, ¡°With you clearing your first Power Baptism, I can¡¯t help but feel like I¡¯ve be less useful to you.¡±

    ¡°Why do you think so?¡± Argentum asked as a response, sitting beside Blob as he soon gazed at the starry sky as well.

    Taking in a deep breath, Blob replied, ¡°Judging from the aura you¡¯re radiating right now, yourbat power is still at a level where I would still win, but it¡¯s now at a level where you don¡¯t need to rely on me as much. If we factor in the buffs you have, then your overall power far surpasses mine.¡±

    ¡°Just so you know, unlike your innately intrepid strength, that kind of power costs me mana,¡± Argentum soon replied, finally understanding what Blob was getting to. Letting out a sigh as he imagined the worst, he then asked Blob, ¡°Let¡¯s say the two of us got into a fight. Using all of the mana I have within me, I can unleash a power far beyond what you can currently do. But what if I was sapped dry of mana amidst a fight? Who¡¯s gonna help me out?¡±

    Just as Blob was about to respond, Argentum interrupted him from doing so and continued, ¡°Of course, you¡¯d think that anyone could fit the bill. But remember that I can¡¯t possibly trust them, nor do I think that they would unleash a level of power at the same level as my full power. Only you would be able to fulfill all requirements without a problem.¡±

    With Argentum exining his mindset, Blob finally realized that he was pondering over his usefulness in the wrong manner. Being used as a personal escort by Argentum throughout the journey, Blob thought that with Argentum undergoing a Power Baptism, he only needed to cast a single movement speed boosting buff on himself before bing able to move at a simr speed at him. Only now did he realize that there were a lot more areas for him to fill, which Argentum couldn¡¯t.

    Taking in a deep breath before letting out a long sigh, Blob radiated an aura that felt like he had achieved enlightenment, closing his eyes for a bit. Eventually, he looked at Argentum and said with an awkward chuckle, ¡°I guess I was looking at it from the wrong perspective. My bad.¡±

    ¡°No worries,¡± Argentum said with a tone offort. ¡°Whenever you feel like this again, just tell me. I¡¯ll make sure that you won¡¯t think that way ever again.¡±

    ¡°Got it,¡± Blob replied, radiating an aura of feeling cared for as he nodded. The two of them then went ahead and looked at the starry sky for a few more minutes as the atmosphere between them turned silent. After ten minutes or so, Blob went ahead and took the initiative to start a conversation, looking at Argentum and saying, ¡°Hey, Argentum.¡±

    ¡°What is it?¡± Argentum asked in response.

    ¡°With your Power Baptism done, what are we gonna do next?¡± Blob asked, to which Argentum mulled over for a short bit. After a few seconds, he said in a slightly unsure tone, ¡°To be honest, I was thinking of heading back to where I came from, Tempest Cliff. But¡­¡±

    Not long after, a thought surfaced in his mind as he soon asked Argentum, ¡°Ah, right. Do you have the tome with you?¡±

    ¡°Ah,¡± Blob uttered before manipting the energy circting throughout his body. In an instant, an opening was formed on his torso, revealing the Tome of the Four Elements that the two had obtained from Verdant Breeze Town. Without hesitation, Argentum grabbed it from the inside of Blob¡¯s torso before staring at it for a bit, formting a n in his mind that revolved around the tome.

    Pondering over it for a couple of minutes, Argentum eventually had a n inside his mind as he told Blob with a tone of certainty, ¡°Forget what I said a while ago. We¡¯re heading to Felix¡¯s inheritance.¡±

    ¡°The Grand Blue Master¡¯s inheritance?¡± Blob said in response. ¡°Why there?¡±

    ¡°Well, it¡¯s the closest ce from here where we can do anything without having to worry about our safety,¡± Argentum responded without dy. ¡°Although I know you can defend me from threats and vice versa, it¡¯s still better for a third party we can trust to protect us while we do our things to improve our power. You still have those Fire-based spells you learned from the manor, right?¡±

    In response, Blob nodded, prompting Argentum to continue, ¡°In that case, you can improve your understanding over the spells in the inheritance without being disturbed, no?¡±

    Thinking about the proposition for a bit, Blob eventually said, ¡°Well¡­true. I do want to increase my arsenal of abilities, seeing how you almost have a spell for every situation¡­¡±

    At this moment, Blob was now on board with Argentum¡¯s n, which Argentum radiated an aura of slight satisfaction as he listened to hispanion¡¯s response. As for Blob, he asked his creator, ¡°When do we head there?¡±

    cing the tome inside his upper torso by manipting the energy in his body, Argentum soon stood up and looked at Argentum before saying, ¡°Right now.¡±

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    In an instant, four balls of green energy were soon conjured in front of the vision of the two, with two balls each heading towards their bodies. Not long after, the two felt like their bodies were as light as a feather, giving them the idea that a single movement of theirs would allow them to traverse a massive distance.

    Hearing Argentum¡¯s response, Blob was not surprised by it as he stood up slowly, knowing that hastily standing up would propel him upward thanks to the movement speed boosting buffs. With Blob now ready to head out, Argentum lightly nodded and told him, ¡°There¡¯s no need for you to know the route. You just have to follow me.¡±

    ¡°Alright,¡± Blob nodded as he responded. Soon after, the two of them channeled all of the strength inside their body towards their legs, disappearing from their original position in less than an instant as they were now making their way towards the Grand Blue Inheritance.

    Unsurprisingly, with the help of Argentum¡¯s two movement speed boosting buffs, the journey, which took Blob almost two days to traverse, was shortened down to a matter of a few hours. Just as the sun was about a quarter of the way to the peak of the sky, the two were standing in front of the ice castle that housed the Grand Blue Inheritance, slightly gasping for air as they felt that they had overexerted themselves.

    After catching their breaths, Argentum looked at the ice castle for a bit before looking at Blob, saying, ¡°Let me tell Felix that we¡¯re already here.¡±

    With Blob nodding not long after in his peripheral vision, he then went ahead and utilized the connection he had with Felix, manipting a great portion of the energy circting inside his body as a voice soon resounded throughout Argentum¡¯s mind.

    ¡°Well, well, well. If it isn¡¯t Argentum,¡± Felix¡¯s voice resounded throughout Argentum¡¯s mind, which was apanied by a light chortle. ¡°What made youe and contact me?¡±

    ¡°Hey, Felix,¡± Argentum greeted Felix in response. He then asked him, ¡°Do you mind if wee into your Grand Blue Inheritance for a bit? We¡¯re nning to improve ourbat powers for a bit before heading back to where I came from.¡±

    ¡°Oh, sure. No worries,¡± Felix unhesitatingly agreed to Argentum¡¯s favor before asking, ¡°Do you want me to teleport you two inside? Are you two still outside that town?¡±

    ¡°Nope,¡± Argentum sinctly replied as he added, ¡°We¡¯re already at the front of the inheritance.¡±

    ¡°Oh,¡± Felix said briefly, only to let out a startled shout soon after, which he hastily suppressed. Imitating the sound of one clearing the throat, he then told Argentum, ¡°Well then. Give me a second.¡±

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    And just like that, Argentum and Blob disappeared from the front of the inheritance, appearing in the depths of the inheritance a few secondster as they were greeted by the sight of two humanoids made out of blue energy and red energy respectively.

    Whoosh!

    Taking a bit of time to look at his surroundings, Argentum eventually realized that he and Argentum were inside the room the Grand Blue Master usually stayed in, remembering the sight he saw from the corridor in his trial. Just as he was about to greet Felix, a familiar voice soon resounded throughout the room.

    ¡°It¡¯s Argentum!¡± the voice shouted, followed by the sound of the wind blowing as Argentum soon realized that someone was hugging him. Noticing the red energy that constituted the one that was hugging him, with a surprised tone, he then shouted, ¡°Eleanor?! What are you doing here?¡±

    ¡°What¡¯s wrong with me being here?¡± Eleanor soon replied, doing a pouting expression after as she added, ¡°Am I not wee in my good friend¡¯s inheritance?¡±

    ¡°Well¡­it¡¯s not really that but¡­¡± Argentum said not long after before adding, ¡°I¡¯m just surprised that you were here.¡±

    Just as the conversation was about to continue, Felix could not help but butt in as he looked at Eleanor, asking, ¡°Argentum knows your real name?¡±

    ¡°Well, why wouldn¡¯t he?¡± Eleanor nodded as she shrugged her shoulders. ¡°It¡¯s a way to establish a deeper connection between teacher and student anyway.¡±

    Hearing Eleanor¡¯s words, Argentum could not help but inwardly let out a sigh of relief, realizing that he had slipped up a while ago. In his mind, he decided that he was going to make it up to her after his bout of improving hisbat power.

    Oblivious to what was going on in Argentum¡¯s mind, Eleanor went ahead and initiated a conversation with him as she said in a slightly yful tone, ¡°Anyways, you came here at just the right time. I have something to ask you, Argentum.¡±

    ¡°Hm?¡± Argentum radiated an aura of curiosity as he replied, ¡°What is it?¡±

    ¡°Felix told me that you gave him a recipe to a potion that increases one¡¯s perception to the Water element,¡± Eleanor unhesitatingly replied. She then continued in a slightly embarrassed tone, asking him, ¡°I was wondering if¡­you might have a recipe to a potion that increases one¡¯s perception to the Fire element instead.¡±

    ¡°I do,¡± Argentum replied without hesitation, to which Eleanor radiated an aura of tion as she asked, ¡°Really?!¡±

    ¡°Yep,¡± Argentum said in response before utilizing the connection he had with her in order for Felix and Blob to not hear their conversation. Through that connection, he said, ¡°I¡¯ll give it to you if you give me a greater share of control over the me Spirit Inheritance.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ve heard.¡± Although Eleanor was slightly surprised to hear Argentum¡¯s words resound in her mind, she hastily adapted as she replied. ¡°Felix told me that you gave it to him after increasing the amount of control you have by 5%. How much control over his inheritance do you have right now anyway?¡±

    ¡°Around 20%?¡± Argentum soon replied, to which Eleanor inwardly let out a sigh as she said, ¡°Is 10% enough for you to give me the recipe?¡±

    ¡°Sure,¡± Argentum responded to her words, sending her information regarding the Heaven¡¯s me Potion soon after, which made Eleanor inwardly ecstatic. He then cut the connection between the two of them as he said, ¡°I¡¯ll give it to Teacher after I¡¯m finished with what I need to do.¡±

    ¡°As expected from my student,¡± Eleanor replied, knowing what Argentum was trying to pull off. ¡°I guess I shall stay here for a bit if that¡¯s the case.¡±

    ¡°Do you mind if I do, Felix?¡± she then asked Felix soon after, to which Felix replied with a shake of his head, ¡°No problem at all. I just need to form another room in the inheritance, that¡¯s all.¡±

    ¡°Anyways, Argentum,¡± Felix said not long after, attracting Argentum¡¯s attention. ¡°You told me a while ago that you were going to improve yourbat power. The same goes for your friend. But what exactly are you going to do in my inheritance?¡±

    Listening to the conversation that was happening between the two, Eleanor could not help but focus her sense of hearing on the two, not wanting to miss a single word.

    In response to Felix¡¯s question, Argentum nonchntly replied, ¡°Oh, you know. I¡¯m just gonna do something that I should have done right about now.¡±

    ¡°And what would that be?¡± Felix followed up with a question of his own.

    Argentum chuckled before saying, ¡°[Earth Affinity].¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s time for me to achieve Lesser Origin.¡±

    ¡ª¡ª¨C

    Want to see some official art of IRAAS? Want to get additional perks?

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 Chapter 272: Unlocking the Origin

    Chapter 272: Unlocking the Origin

    Listening to Argentum¡¯s response to his question, Felix thought that it was a logical answer as he nodded. He then told him, ¡°I see. Do you have an idea as to how long it would take you to obtain it using the tome?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m not sure, to be honest,¡± Argentum said in response with a tone of slight uncertainty. ¡°Although I know I have a highprehension rate, depending on whether the words inside the tome resonate within me or not, that also affects the speed at which I can obtain it.¡±

    ¡°Wait just a damn minute,¡± Eleanor yelled all of a sudden, attracting the attention of both Felix and Argentum, as well as Blob, prompting them to focus their sense of vision towards her. Noticing that everyone in the room was looking at her, she went ahead and reduced the tense atmosphere surrounding them by imitating the sound of one clearing their throat. After that, she lightly scratched her head as she focused her vision onto Argentum, asking him, ¡°You¡¯re telling me that you¡¯re going to learn [Earth Affinity] here?¡±

    ¡°Yep.¡± Argentum nodded.

    ¡°In an area of the continent where the density of Water energy particles is insanely high?¡± Eleanor followed up with another question, to which Argentum nodded in response.

    ¡°Now how the heck are you going to do just that?¡± Eleanor muttered not long after, pondering over the possible ways she knew Argentum had that would allow him to do so. Eventually, a thought rted to the deal she and Argentum made a while ago surfaced in her mind, prompting her to ask Argentum in a slightly cautious tone, ¡°You have a variant of the potion for the Earth element?¡±

    ¡°Bingo,¡± Argentum unhesitatingly replied, letting out a light chuckle soon after. Not long after, Felix let out a chuckle as well, making Eleanor feel embarrassed as she radiated an aura of slight infuriation at the two. With a ¡®hmph¡¯ sound, she told them, ¡°I was just making sure that his ns weren¡¯t fruitless, that¡¯s all.¡±

    After that, she then looked around the room to find a topic to shift towards, her sense of vision eventuallynding on Argentum¡¯spanion, Blob. From the fact that Blob was a Fire-based Pseudo-Animate, Eleanor could not help but think that Argentum had actually followed her words, nurturing apanion that would help him out.

    ¡®And to think that hispanion had undergone a Power Baptism as well,¡¯ she thought to herself, only for another thought to surface in her mind as she asked herself, ¡°Wait a second. If hispanion has undergone a Power Baptism, then that must mean¡­¡±

    In an instant, her sense of vision was shifted back to Felix and Argentum, who were talking about a few things rted to the Tome of the Four Elements. Utilizing the entirety of her senses, she then went ahead and examined the aura Argentum was radiating, making her let out a gasp of surprise as she asked Argentum, ¡°You¡¯ve sessfully undergone a Power Baptism?!¡±

    ¡°Huh?¡± Felix uttered in response to Eleanor¡¯s words. To him, the words she said just now were quite oundish, not befitting her usual personality. Nevertheless, he gave her the benefit of the doubt as he said to Eleanor soon after, ¡°Are you sure your senses have dulled after a long amount of time? There¡¯s no way a Normal-grade Pseudo-Animate would be able to clear a Power Baptism that earl¡ª¡±

    ¡°Oh my fucking god,¡± Felix said not long after taking a cursory nce at Argentum¡¯s current aura. Since Felix felt Argentum¡¯s aura back in Verdant Breeze Town, he was more sure than Eleanor that Argentum had truly undergone a Power Baptism. In just a span of a few hours, Argentum had actually done something that other Pseudo-Animates would usually dy?

    With this question in mind, Felix could not help but look at Argentum from a new light once more. Back at their first meeting, he looked at Argentum as a genius that was sure to be their equal eventually. But now? He now looked at Argentum as someone who would surpass him and Eleanor without a doubt, ushering in a new era wherein he was the focal point!

    It took a few minutes for the excitement and surprise of the two to calm down, which was around the time where Argentum answered calmly, ¡°Yes, I have.¡±

    ¡°Unbelievable,¡± Felix said in a tone of admiration and awe. ¡°Throughout the 20 thousand or so years I¡¯ve lived, I¡¯ve only met around a dozen Normal-grade Pseudo-Animates that have cleared their first Power Baptism. To think that you¡¯d be one of them as well.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m at a loss for words, Argentum,¡± Eleanor said not long after. ¡°I thought that you¡¯d clear your first baptism at the Magic or Grand-grade, but to exceed my expectations and clear it at the Normal-grade. You¡¯ve truly surprised your teacher.¡±

    ¡°Well, then,¡± Argentum said as he let out a chortle. ¡°If you think that was surprising, then please raise your expectations higher for I am going to clear the Origin Trials before evolving to Magic-grade. Mark my words.¡±

    In response, Felix and Eleanor looked at each other for a bit before letting out augh of their own. After some time, Eleanor told Argentum, ¡°Alright, I wish you the very best of luck in aplishing that goal.¡±

    ¡°Same here,¡± Felix said after Eleanor, letting out a light giggle.

    Listening to their words of encouragement, Argentum went a bit silent as he knew that they thought that he was joking around. Unfortunately for them, this was also a part of his n in bing a Super Animate. By obtaining an incredibly strong evolution, the foundation of his power once he turned into an Animate would be incredibly sturdy, allowing him to be recognized by the ones with authority as someone with great talent as long as he showcased his power. With that title on him, he surely thought that he would obtain a ton of resources that would allow him to grow stronger even faster!

    Nevertheless, even though he knew what they were thinking, he did not refute them as actions speak louder than words. While he was thinking about the next step in his n to bing a Super Animate, he thought to himself, ¡®Speaking of which, I should ask Felix and Eleanor if they have other methods to transform into an Animate.¡¯

    ¡®But I¡¯ll save that after I obtain [Earth Affinity],¡¯ he thought to himself soon after, remembering the evidence he obtained back at Verdant Breeze Town that Felix might know something regarding that area.

    After cing those thoughts at the back of his head, Argentum looked at Felix and told him, ¡°Could you make two separate rooms for me and Blob to train in? We¡¯ve dyed it for quite some time already.¡±

    ¡°Alright,¡± Felix said in response as he nodded, gesturing with his hands soon after as multiple strands of his energy soon scattered in multiple directions. After about thirty seconds or so, two corridors were soon formed on one wall of his room, leading to two decently-sized rooms that had nothing within.

    Seeing that the two rooms were now made, Argentum looked at the silent Blob and told him, ¡°I¡¯ll be taking the right room. You go take the left.¡±

    ¡°Got it,¡± Blob sinctly replied as he nodded. Just as he was about to make his way towards the left corridor, Blob was stopped by Argentum as he shouted, ¡°Hey, Blob! Catch!¡±

    Whoosh!

    With a rift opening above his palm, a sk that contained a red viscous fluid was soon thrown in Blob¡¯s direction, to which Blob caught without a problem. Taking a closer look at what he had caught, an aura of bewilderment soon radiated from him as he looked at Argentum and said, ¡°Isn¡¯t this yours?¡±

    ¡°Indeed, it is,¡± Argentum replied calmly, radiating an aura of slight happiness as he knew that Blob was somewhat concerned for him. Reassuring Blob, he said, ¡°Just so you know, I have a recipe that allows me to make that thing in basically infinite amounts, so you don¡¯t have to worry about a thing. You want to quickly improve your understanding over those new Fire spells you obtained, right? If so, then take it.¡±

    Listening to his creator¡¯s words, Blob wanted to say something as he tightly gripped on the sk, only for a sigh toe out as he lightly nodded before heading towards the first room through the left corridor.

    Watching Blob make his way towards the first room, Eleanor could not help but look at Argentum and tell him, ¡°You¡¯ve raised yourpanion well.¡±

    ¡°Well, you were the one who gave me the skill in the first ce, Teacher,¡± Argentum said in response, letting out a light giggle. As for Felix, who was listening to their conversation at the back, he could not help but be a bit surprised that Eleanor decided to give her student such a skill. Not only that, but he was also surprised at the fact that Argentum was actually able to raise hispanion to such a level.

    ¡°Mind if I go into yourpanion¡¯s room?¡± Eleanor asked Argentum, to which he replied with a question of his own, asking, ¡°What for?¡±

    ¡°Just gonna help him out on improving his control over the Fire element,¡± Eleanor hastily replied. ¡°You don¡¯t mind me doing that, right?¡±

    ¡°Not at all, Teacher,¡± Argentum radiated an aura of tion as he continued, ¡°Be my guest.¡±

    Whoosh!

    And with Argentum¡¯s confirmation, Eleanor dashed towards the room where Blob, seemingly teleporting in front of Argentum and Felix from the sheer speed of her travel. Felix and Argentum looked at each other for a bit before they went ahead andughed at Eleanor¡¯s action.

    ¡°I guess she wanted to do something new after being cooped up in her inheritance for a long time,¡± Felix said afterward, to which Argentum nodded before saying, ¡°Well, with Teacher doing this, mypanion would improve in strength, which means my strength would improve as well.¡±

    ¡°Right,¡± Felix sinctly responded to Argentum¡¯s words before realizing that Argentum¡¯s n was dyed once more. Without hesitation, he asked him, ¡°Anyways, shouldn¡¯t you head towards the other room and go do your thing?¡±

    ¡°Ah, right.¡± It was then Argentum realized what Felix realized, saying a few words of gratitude to Felix before making his way towards the unupied room. After arriving there, he then went ahead and sat on the ground, calming himself down before taking out the tome from inside his upper torso.

    Thud.

    cing the Tome of the Four Elements in front of him, he looked at it for a bit and muttered to himself with glee, ¡°As long as I understand all of the contents inside this tome, I¡¯m pretty sure I would be able to defeat higher-ranked Animates even at Rank 1. If they don¡¯t take notice of me with that kind of feat, then those guys are just stupid.¡±

    ¡°Speaking of which¡­¡± Just as Argentum was going to go ahead and start his journey to obtaining [Earth Affinity], he remembered that it had been a while since he hadst checked his stats.

    ¡°Since I¡¯ve just cleared my first Power Baptism, I guess it¡¯s a good time to check,¡± he muttered to himself with that in mind,manding the system soon after.

    Ding!

    Apanied by a notification sound resounding throughout his mind, a small holographic screen was soon revealed in front of Argentum¡¯s vision, detailing his current stats. After skimming through the contents, the feeling Argentum felt was that of shock. Of course, it was not an immense shock since he had already seen Blob¡¯s stats beforehand. Nevertheless, he was still shocked as he did not believe that he would have such an absurd amount of mana.

    ________

    [Argentum] (Level 10/10)

    Experience: MAX

    Species: Wind Elemental

    Existence Level: Pseudo-Animate

    Grade: Normal

    Power Baptism: 1

    ¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª

    [HP]: 410/410

    [MP]: 5530/5530

    ¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª

    Stats:

    Vitality ¨C 41 (x10)

    Strength ¨C 29 (x10)

    Defense ¨C 29 (x10)

    Agility ¨C 50 (x10)

    Intelligence ¨C 58 (x10)

    ________

    Taking in a few deep breaths to calm his senses once more, Argentum soon closed the holographic screen in front of him as hemanded the system to take out a certain item from its inventory.

    Whoosh!

    With a rift opening up just a couple of decimeters above the ground, a sk which contained brown viscous fluid soon appeared in front of Argentum¡¯s field of vision as itnded on the ground with a slightly peculiar ¡®ng¡¯ sound. Then again, Argentum wasn¡¯t someone who looked at the finer details, grabbing the sk from the ground before going ahead and manipting the energy circting inside his body.

    Soon after, the opening where the tome lied a while ago was soon opened, to which Argentum threw the contents of the sk into. As he did this, he could not help but mutter to himself, ¡°This is how you use a potion as a Pseudo-Animate, right?¡±

    Normally, a potion would be ingested through the mouth, but that was only the case for Animates. Since he was a Pseudo-Animate that only took on a humanoid form, but did not have the stuff necessary considered to be an Animate, he thought that this was the closest he could get to ingesting it.

    Ding!

    As he closed up the hole in his upper torso, a notification sound soon resounded throughout his mind. Without dy, he went ahead andmanded the system to open up the notification screen in his mind, allowing him to read through the notifications he had just received. It only took a few seconds of skimming for him to radiate an aura of expectation and tion as he soon closed his vision, attuning his body to the Earth element in the surroundings thanks to his greatly improved perception.

    ¡®You have ingested the Heaven¡¯s Earth Potion.¡¯

    ¡®Your perception of the Earth element has increased by 200%¡¯

    ¡®Time remaining before buff wears out: 1 hour 59 minutes¡¯

    ¡°It¡¯s now or never! To the goal of bing a Super Animate!¡± Argentum shouted inwardly to psych himself up before treading on the path to learning [Earth Affinity].

    ¡ª¡ª¨C

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 Chapter 273: Persuading a Noblewoman

    Chapter 273: Persuading a Noblewoman

    XXXX Continent, Seraph Kingdom, outside the gates of the royal pce.

    ¡°Did you really have to give me that information, Your Highness?¡± Dane could not help but slightlyin as he was not expecting the two to have that kind of rtionship. In response, Vanadir lightly grinned as he snickered, replying, ¡°Well, if you think about it, who wouldn¡¯t be attracted to a beautiful woman? I just said that to deter you from making any advances on her.¡±

    ¡°What do you mean by that, Your Highness?¡± Dane asked as he felt that there was something more to the Ninth Prince¡¯s words. ¡°Does she have a fiance or something?¡±

    ¡°Nope, none at all,¡± Vanadir responded as he shook his head left to right. Listening to his answer, Dane could not help but think to himself, ¡®If she doesn¡¯t have a fiance, then why deter me from doing so?¡¯

    ¡°Then, is there a special reason as to why you¡¯re deterring me from doing so?¡± Dane asked after pondering over it for a bit, to which Vanadir responded with a light sigh, ¡°All I can say is that if you get too close to her¡­¡±

    ¡°Expect yourself to turn into a puddle of blood the next day if you two engage in those kinds of things,¡± he added, making Dane shudder as he did not expect such a statement toe out of His Highness¡¯ mouth.

    Letting out a sigh of his own in response, he was now determined to only be cordial with Valentia since he did not want to end up as a puddle of blood one day. Thinking that it was not a good thing to continue on this train of thought, Dane went ahead and thought up of another topic as Vanadir asked him as to whether or not he still had more questions before departed.

    After a few seconds or so, Dane eventually opened his mouth as he thought that her title was quite weird. He asked in a curious tone, ¡°Now that I think about it, why is her title the ¡®Healing Witch of the West¡¯, Your Highness? Is it because her ss has something to do with healing?¡±

    ¡°Pretty much,¡± Vanadir said nonchntly as he shrugged his shoulders. ¡°The ¡®Healing¡¯ part of her title was added just recently, to be honest.¡±

    ¡°Wanna know her original title?¡± he questioned Dane soon after, to which Dane lightly nodded after thinking that it was better to know more about his future team member.

    Scratching his head for a bit as he recalled her previous title, Vanadir said, ¡°If I remember correctly, her previous title was ¡®Crimson Witch of the West¡¯. The reason why she got that title was because she killed over a thousand people with a single strike. I forgot if it happened due to a small skirmish or due to a certain war.¡±

    Hearing that his future team member had exemrybat sense, Dane could not help but let out an inward sigh of relief as he thought that their current lineup was still biased towards the offensive side. Nevertheless, since this new team member of theirs also had healing capabilities, it was now part extreme offense and part endurance.

    ¡°Do you know what her ss is, Your Highness?¡± Dane soon asked Vanadir, wanting to know her ss so he could formte strategies that would allow their skills and spells to synergize. Surprisingly, contrary to Vanadir¡¯s openness to answering his questions all this time, the Ninth Prince only let out a light giggle as he said, ¡°That¡¯ll be a secret for now. Don¡¯t want the other teams to know our members, right?¡±

    ¡°Ah¡­understandable,¡± Dane muttered as he thought over it for a bit, lightly nodding soon after. At this moment, he had no more questions to ask Vanadir regarding Valentia. With that, Dane asked the Ninth Prince if he was ready to depart, to which Vanadir hastily replied, ¡°Ah, please wait for a bit. I still have something to ask you.¡±

    ¡°What is it, Your Highness?¡± Dane tilted his head, curious as to what His Highness was going to ask him. Taking in a deep breath, Vanadir went ahead and questioned him, ¡°Before we make our way there, are you fine with following my every order?¡±

    ¡°Pardon?¡± Wondering if he had heard wrongly, Dane asked, prompting the Ninth Prince to repeat the question once more. After repeating it one more time after that, Dane could not help but ask Vanadir, ¡°Is there a reason for this kind of request, Your Highness.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m asking for your consent, just in case,¡± the Ninth Prince replied sinctly. He soon added, ¡°Also, the orders I¡¯ll give you are all orders wherein you¡¯ll benefit, so don¡¯t worry that much.¡±

    ¡°If you put it that way, then¡­¡± Dane pondered over it a bit more, eventually nodding as he muttered, ¡°I have no choice but to ept, no?¡±

    ¡°d to hear that.¡± Vanadir smiled in response before telling Dane that they should make their way towards the Arcenon household. Dane nodded as a response to the Ninth Prince¡¯s words before going ahead and summoning all of the energy inside his body, forming a magic circle that soon enveloped the two.

    Whoosh!

    A few secondster, the two disappeared from the sights of the guards who were vigntly guarding the gates. At this moment, they were now making their way to Telmerann Province, the ce where the Arcenon family¡¯s main household resided.

    Other than being the province where one of the Seraph Kingdom¡¯s noble families resided, there was nothing else that stood out from the province. At most, one would only be able to say that the Telmerann Province was a province that specialized in mass agriculture, employing mages and warriors to increase the province¡¯s crop exports.

    Whoosh!

    Eventually, after twenty minutes or so, the two of them had finally at their destination, being a few dozen meters away from what seemed to be a manor spanning a kilometer in terms of length and width. Its front side was covered in tons of foliage while a few teenagers dressed in slightlyvish clothes could be seen frolicking around.

    ¡°Haah¡­haah¡­¡± In contrast to the peaceful scene in front of the manor, Dane was panting heavily as he felt that the energy in his body was close to being dry. Vanadir, who was beside him, could not help but look at Dane with a gaze of concern as he asked, ¡°Are you alright?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m¡­haah¡­fine¡­¡± Dane eked out a response amidst the immense amount of exhaustion he felt from using a huge chunk of his energy in bursts. Although he absorbed energy from a few high purity mana stones along the way, replenishing his mana to eptable levels, he still could not help but feel like a few boulders were stacked on top of his body at the moment.

    Mustering all of the energy that was circting throughout his body at the moment, he channeled it towards the tip of his right pointing finger, opening up a rift barely big enough for a small stone of mana to drop on his palm. Without hesitation, Dane absorbed all of the mana in that stone, which turned into a pile of dust not long after. Using the mana he had absorbed, he went ahead and summoned more mana stones, eventually returning to his normal and healthy condition.

    Noticing Dane¡¯s now healthyplexion, Vanadir went ahead and asked one more time just in case, saying, ¡°Are you alright now?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ve never been better,¡± Dane replied with a light chuckle as he took a few steps behind the Ninth Prince. After doing so, he then said, ¡°Let us make our way to the manor, Your Highness.¡±

    In response, Vanadir silently nodded as they headed towards the manor at a pace that was neither fast nor slow¡­to those who have ascended to their respective sses. In actuality, it only took them a few seconds to arrive at the area of the manor filled with foliage.

    At the very moment they arrived, they were greeted with peculiar looks as the people who were in the grassy part of the manor did not recognize the two. In response, the two of them looked at each other for a bit before shrugging their shoulders, thinking that waiting it out would be the better option.

    ¡°May I ask what you two are doing here?¡± one of the guards of the Arcenon family, who was guarding the teenagers that were frolicking just a while ago, decided toe up to them and ask politely.

    ¡°Royal orders,¡± Vanadir lightly smiled as he responded before going ahead and exuding the aura of Seraph royalty. It was at this moment that everyone in the grassy part of the manor realized who they were looking at. In their minds, only one person woulde to the Arcenon family under royal orders.

    It was none other than the Ninth Prince, Vanadir Seraph!

    Whoosh!

    In an instant, the teenagers, as well as the guards, went ahead and kneeled on one knee as they greeted Vanadir with, ¡°We wee Your Highness to the Arcenon family household!¡±

    ¡°Ah, there¡¯s no need to do that,¡± Vanadir said to them, feeling a bit embarrassed as he did not expect them to do such a thing. Nevertheless, the people continued to kneel on one of their knees, leaving the Ninth Prince with no choice but to let out a sigh. He then looked at Dane and asked, ¡°Do you think this is enough for them to notice we¡¯re here?¡±

    ¡°I think so, Your Highness,¡± Dane replied sinctly. Just as he was about toe up with more ideas as to how to attract the Arcenon family¡¯s attention, a middle-aged man dressed in servant clothes hastily made their way towards the two, prompting Dane to say, ¡°Ah. Someone¡¯sing.¡±

    Whoosh!

    After a couple of seconds, this middle-aged man appeared in front of the two, radiating an aura that seemed to say he was the paragon of subservience. With the man¡¯s clothesplemented by his pitch-ck hair, his light blue irises, and his amicable smile, one could not help but feel at ease as they looked at this man.

    ¡°It is nice to see you again, Prince Vanadir,¡± the middle-aged man said as a greeting to the Ninth Prince. In response, the Ninth Prince replied, ¡°Indeed. It has been a long time since we¡¯vest met.¡±

    ¡°Uh¡­¡± Dane said all of a sudden, prompting the two to look at him. Noticing that he had obtained the attention of the two, he timidly asked, ¡°I apologize for the intrusion but¡­might I ask who you are?¡±

    ¡°Quentin Arcenon, an 11th generation servant of the Arcenon family,¡± the middle-aged man, whose first name was Quentin, answered in a calm and unhurried manner, making Dane feel like he was listening to the soft breeze of the wind.

    ¡°Might I ask what brings Prince Vanadir and hispanion to the Arcenon household?¡± Quentin looked at Vanadir soon after as he asked this question, to which Vanadir unhurriedly replied, ¡°Is Valentia there? I want to meet up with her.¡±

    ¡°Ah.¡± Uttering a sound, Quentin instantly understood what Vanadir was trying to do. But since he was a servant, he did not have any authority to meddle in these matters as he replied, ¡°Please follow me, kind sirs, to one of the meeting rooms in our household. After that, I will call for Lady Valentia toe to you two.¡±

    With the two of them nodding in response, the two were then led towards the inside of the manor, allowing the teenagers and the guards in the grassy part of the manor to sigh with relief. Although they were curious as to why the prince was here to meet with one of them, they thought that it was better to not know.

    Eventually, after crossing through a few corridors, the two were finally brought inside into a meeting room that was decorated simply. In the center of the room was a coffee table while two leather chairs could be seen on opposite sides. Facing those things was arge bay window, allowing those who conversed in this room to be basked in the warm sunlight as it was still early in the afternoon.

    After Vanadir and Dane made themselvesfortable in the meeting room, sitting on the two unupied chairs, Quentin went towards the door as he said, ¡°Now if you may excuse me, let me call Lady Valentia toe to you.¡±

    ¡°Ah, would you like me to bring back some drinks or snacks?¡± Quentin asked, to which Vanadir lightly smiled as he responded, ¡°Some tea and cake, please.¡±

    ¡°As you wish, Your Highness.¡± After respectfully bowing to Vanadir, Quentin soon closed the door to the room, allowing Dane and Vanadir to be alone.

    ¡°Dane, I¡¯d suggest you stand behind me before Valentia enters,¡± Vanadir said all of a sudden, prompting Dane to tilt his head in confusion. Before he could ask the reason why, the Ninth Prince went ahead and exined why, saying, ¡°Although she has greatbat power and healing skills, her personality is on¡­the entric side, to say the least.¡±

    ¡°I see¡­¡± Dane said, slightly understanding as he went ahead and stood up from the chair, standing on the left side of Vanadir¡¯s seat as they went ahead and conversed about what happened in their lives to pass the time. Eventually, the door to the room was opened, prompting the two to look at the person who came.

    What greeted them was a woman in herte 20s, wearing a light blue dress that entuated the nice curves of her body. Complementing such a body was jet-ck hair that reached up to her waist while her irises were as blue as the oceans. If one looked closely, one would even see a hint of crimson red on the tips of her hair.

    ¡°Well, if it isn¡¯t Vanadir!¡± the woman shouted all of a sudden as she let out a raucousugh. She then made her way towards Vanadir before hugging him, shocking Dane, who was looking at all of this happening. After a few seconds, the woman released her grip on Vanadir, sitting down on the unupied chair. While that was happening, Quentin, who was behind the woman all this time, went ahead and ced the cake and tea Vanadir requested on the coffee table in the middle.

    After that, Quentin respectfully bowed to the two before making his leave, leaving the woman, as well as the two, to their own devices.

    ¡°Long time no see, Valentia,¡± Vanadir said with a smile on his face. He then asked her, ¡°Did you really have to hug me that tightly in front of Quentin?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s been a long time since we¡¯vest met, you know? How could I not hug you?¡± Valentia responded with a giggle as she poured herself a cup of tea. In the next instant, the contents in the cup she poured was downed in one gulp as she went ahead and helped herself to some cake afterward.

    Looking at this, Dane could not help but think that his image of Valentia was slightly shattered by her current actions. To him, her current actions felt unreserved, as if he was looking at a somewhat boorish man around his age wolfing down some cake and tea.

    ¡°So? What made youe here? Is it because of my return from a trip?¡± Valentia soon asked Vanadir as she was finished eating a slice of cake. Shaking his head in response, Vanadir responded, ¡°You know how it is. The war for the throne ising up and well¡­¡±

    ¡°Ah.¡± The Ninth Prince did not even need to finish his sentence for Valentia to understand why he came here. She then pondered over the matter for a bit before looking around the surroundings. It did not take long for her eyes to fixate on Dane, radiating a faint aura of seduction in the process.

    While Dane felt a bit ufortable from the gaze, Valentia looked back at Vanadir and chuckled as she said, ¡°I see you came prepared. You really know how I operate, huh.¡±

    ¡°A prince should always look exemry at all times,¡± Vanadir responded as he chuckled as well. Soon after, Valentia stood up from her seat, making her way towards Dane before looking at him from head to toe. As a light red soon became apparent on her face while her breathing became slightly coarse, she asked Vanadir, ¡°Mind if I do that for a bit?¡±

    ¡°I can give you one hour,¡± Vanadir instantly responded while Dane became more confused as to what was currently happening. While he felt the force of multiple beasts pulling on his arm while the door to the meeting room was closed shut, the only sound that came out of his mouth before that was, ¡°Eh?¡±

    Bang!

    With Vanadir alone in the room, he went ahead and poured himself a cup of tea while faint sounds of voices could be heard outside the room.

    ¡°You do know what you¡¯re doing, right?¡±

    ¡°Haah¡­do I really have to?¡±

    ¡°He did tell me that I have one hour to have my way with you so¡­¡±

    ¡°Haah¡­fine.¡±

    ¡°¡­¡±

    ¡°Yes! That¡¯s the spot! More! Give me more!¡±

    ¡°Put a bit more force into it! I want to feel your touch!¡±

    ¡°A bit deeper¡­a bit harder¡­yes! That¡¯s it!¡±

    ¡°Ahh¡­good tea,¡± Vanadir said as he sipped on his tea, passively listening to the faint sounds that resounded.

    ¡ª¡ª¨C

    Want to see some official art of IRAAS? Want to get additional perks?

    Then head onto my Discord server! The link is https://discord.gg/SRaEwGE

    Hope to see you there!

 Chapter 274: The Origin Trials

    Chapter 274: The Origin Trials

    Closing his sense of vision while he attuned his body to the Earth energy particles, Argentum could not help but think that it was going to be a breeze after sensing that the power of the Earth energy particles in the area had increased by many degrees. Adding on the fact that he had psyched himself up before doing this, his mental condition was as high as it could ever be.

    Whoosh!

    With his sense of vision closed, he went ahead and conjured two tendrils out of energy, both of them sprouting from the tips of his fingers. He then went ahead and opened his sense of vision slightly as he controlled both tendrils towards the Tome of the Four Elements, which was ced in front of him, using them as fingers to flip through the pages of the tome.

    After a while, the tendrils had finally reached the page regarding the skill Argentum wanted to obtain, which was [Earth Affinity]. Without hesitation, he then went ahead and used the tendrils as a way to transfer the information from the pages of the tome towards his mind, allowing him to not need to look at the tome unless necessary.

    Swish! Swish! Swish!

    With the tome¡¯s pages being flipped after reaching the beginning of what seemed to be the method to obtaining [Earth Affinity], the tendrils Argentum conjured had finally obtained all of the necessary information from the tome, prompting him to close the tome not long after while the tendrils were soon dispersed.

    He then closed his sense of vision once more, organizing the information he had obtained in his mind in a way that would make it easier for him to understand. Surprisingly, it did not take long for him to do so as he found out that the information in the tome was already pretty organized. With that in mind, he could not help but ponder for a bit as to whether the same applied to the other skills in the tome, to which he concluded that there was no point in thinking about it for now.

    cing the thought at the back of his head, he then went ahead and gradually willed the Earth energy particles in the area to make their way towards his body, only to be absorbed by him not long after. With every Earth energy particle he absorbed, the level of understanding he had regarding [Earth Affinity] increased at a phenomenal rate of 1% per particle.

    Of course, one should take into consideration that Argentum had an innately highprehension rate thanks to Aurus ingesting Comprehension Leaves, which was given a bigger boost due to the Heaven¡¯s Earth Potion he had ingested before starting this session.

    And just like that, about 30 minutes soon passed since Argentum had started his grind to obtaining [Earth Affinity]. Surprisingly, after this amount of time, the level of understanding he had regarding [Earth Affinity] was now at 49%, only one percent away to being halfway there.

    Nevertheless, even at this level of understanding, he could not help but feel that his connection towards the Earth energy particles he absorbed now became closer. But if he were topare it to his other elemental affinities, like [Water Affinity], even without the help of the potion that increased his elemental perception, the feeling of connection he felt from the other affinities was akin to that of brothers rted by blood. As for his still progressing [Earth Affinity], it felt like he was talking to a somewhat familiar acquaintance.

    ¡®I should have gone to an Earth-based inheritance instead,¡¯ Argentum inwardlyined to himself as his attention was focused on absorbing as much Earth energy particles as possible. Then again, it was his choice to head towards an area filled to the brim with Water energy particles instead of Earth energy particles.

    Continuing his train of thought, he thought to himself, ¡®Now that I think about it, whenever I obtain skills from inheritances, the information needed to fully understand that skill is given to me, allowing me to use it naturally once I learn it.¡¯

    Although Argentum did not mention it that often, it truly did happen, with him obtaining skills in an instant since the information needed to fully understand the first part is given to him. With that in mind, he wondered if it was better for him to head towards an Earth-based inheritance first to obtain [Earth Affinity] and other Earth-based spells before heading back here to the Grand Blue Inheritance to hone his strength.

    ¡®Oh well,¡¯ he concluded in his mind. ¡®There¡¯s no point mulling over something that¡¯s already in the past.¡¯

    ¡®Well, I could go ahead and enter an Earth-based inheritance after this since there¡¯s still a lot of time before Aurus wakes up but¡­¡¯ he thought not long after. ¡®That seems like a waste of stamina, to be honest.¡¯

    After cing those thoughts at the back of his head, he then went ahead and continued to absorb the Earth energy particles in the surroundings,sting for another ten minutes as his level of understanding regarding [Earth Affinity] had now gone past 50%, ranging around 55%.

    ¡®I¡¯ve absorbed quite a decent amount of Earth energy particles throughout thesest ten minutes, but to think that my understanding of [Earth Affinity] has only improved by this much,¡¯ he thought to himself, thinking that with every percent of understanding he obtained, the more Earth energy particles he needed to obtain the subsequent percent.

    ¡°Is there a faster way to do this?¡± he asked himself, opening his sense of vision as he soon stood up. He then went ahead and picked up the Tome of the Four Elements before cing it inside his upper torso once more. After that, he walked around the room he was in for a bit as he pondered over methods he could use to hasten hisprehension speed.

    ¡°Hmm¡­no¡­no¡­¡± At first, the thoughts he had in his mind were those that were incredibly effective, but needed him to be at the existence level of Animate to be feasible, so he went ahead and ignored them. Slowly but surely, the level of power needed went down to the Pseudo-Animate level, with the easiest method to hasten hisprehension speed eventually surfacing in his mind after five minutes or so.

    In his mind, he could still remember the third trial he underwent in the Grand Blue Inheritance. He was fighting against an Earth-based Pseudo-Animate that was a grade above him. With his mind following that train of thought, he muttered to himself, ¡°Is it even possible to do so in the first ce?¡±

    It did not take long for him toe to a conclusion, heading outside the room he was in before being greeted by the sight of Felix.

    ¡°Oh? What are you doing here, Argentum?¡± Felix could not help but ask as he thought that it was odd for Argentum to be out of the room since he was trying to obtain [Earth Affinity]. Taking in a short yet deep breath, Argentum replied, ¡°I need your help on something, Felix.¡±

    ¡°And what would that be?¡± Felix asked soon after, to which recalled the idea he had in mind for a bit before asking, ¡°Is it possible for you to summon Earth-based Pseudo-Animates and transform into Earth energy particles.¡±

    ¡°Huh?¡± Not expecting such a request toe from Argentum, Felix could not help but wonder if he had heard wrongly, asking Argentum to repeat his request. After repeating it a few more times, Felix decided to ept the fact that he was not hallucinating, and that Argentum was asking him to transform Earth-based Pseudo-Animates into Earth energy particles.

    Thinking about the reasons why Argentum requested him to do such a thing, it did not take long for Argentum¡¯s statement from a while ago to pop up in his head. With that in mind, he asked with a hint of caution, ¡°Is it for [Earth Affinity]?¡±

    ¡°Exactly,¡± Argentum nodded as he responded. As for Felix, he scratched his head for a bit, wondering if it was possible for him to even do so. After a while, he concluded that he did not know how to do such a thing, but did not want Argentum to know that. And so, he went ahead and silently conjured a strand of his energy, which headed towards the room upied by both Blob and Eleanor.

    A few secondster, a feminine voice resounded throughout his mind, asking him, ¡°Why did you contact me, Felix? Can¡¯t you hear that I¡¯m busy teaching Argentum¡¯spanion how to use his skills and spells properly?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s just a quick question,¡± Felix hastily replied, seeing that he was taking up Eleanor¡¯s time. ¡°Argentum asked me if I could convert Earth-based Pseudo-Animates into Earth energy particles. I just wanted to ask if that was possible.¡±

    ¡°It is,¡± Eleanor unhesitatingly replied, leaving Felix at a loss for words. The only sound he could eke out in response after that was, ¡°Eh?¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re thinking too much, Felix,¡± Eleanor said soon after before letting out a light giggle that resounded in his mind. A few secondster, she responded, ¡°To convert Pseudo-Animates into energy particles¡­¡±

    ¡°You just have to kill them.¡±

    ¡°I see¡­¡± Felix said with a tone of uncertainty before cutting off their connection, pondering as to whether Eleanor¡¯s words were true or not. After mulling over it for a bit, he eventually concluded that it was indeed true, recalling the memories he had when he was still fighting against a great number of Pseudo-Animates at once. Whenever they died, their bodies would disintegrate into particles of various colors before being absorbed by the world.

    Thinking about those particles, he could not help but think that they were condensed particles of a certain element since they were visible to the naked eye. Although he wondered if that would speed up or slow down Argentum¡¯sprehension over [Earth Affinity], he could not help but think that doing it would truly help Argentum out.

    Noticing that Felix was silent for quite some time, Argentum went ahead and asked him, ¡°So¡­can you do it?¡±

    ¡°Yeah, I can,¡± Felix nodded as he responded. Soon after, he gestured with his hands as strands of energy soon appeared in front of his body, conjuring into a blue magic circle that allowed five silhouettes to appear in front of both Argentum and Felix.

    It did not take long for the appearance of the five silhouettes to be fully seen by Argentum and Felix, with the energy making up their bodies being a shade of light brown. Unfortunately for them, just as they were about to ask why they were summoned, a glint of blue light was thest thing they saw as their bodies were cut multiple times, transforming into multiple motes of brown light soon after.

    Sensing the connection he had towards the brown motes, Argentum unhesitatingly went ahead and absorbed them while he recalled the information regarding [Earth Affinity] in his mind. After he had absorbed all of the brown motes in a matter of a few minutes, an aura of tion and surprise soon enveloped Argentum as he found out that his understanding of [Earth Affinity] was now three-fourths of the way there.

    Noticing that Argentum radiated an aura of excitement, Felix could not help but ask, ¡°Was it effective?¡±

    ¡°Yeah!¡± Argentum could not help but shout his response excitedly. He then told Felix, ¡°If you do that a few more times, I think I¡¯d be able to obtain [Earth Affinity] after ten minutes or so!¡±

    Hearing Argentum¡¯s words, Felix could not help but let out a sigh as he silently prayed for the souls that were inside the Earth-based Pseudo-Animates he would kill to have a better life.

    And just like that, quite a substantial amount of Earth-based Pseudo-Animates had been transformed into motes of brown light, their method of death akin to chickens being beheaded while they were unaware. Although Argentum finally felt bad after the second batch of Earth-based Pseudo-Animates had been converted into motes of brown light, he continued with his process of understanding [Earth Affinity] as he silently prayed for those that were killed for his gain.

    Eventually, after a total of 25 Earth-based Pseudo-Animates had been killed, the connection Argentum felt towards the Earth element had now achieved a breakthrough. If his connection with the Earth element before was akin to somewhat familiar acquaintances, right now, what he felt was that of a connection between good friends.

    Ding!

    With a notification sound resounding throughout his mind, Argentum went ahead and opened up the notification screen in his mind, radiating an aura of happiness soon after.

    ¡®You have obtained the skill [Earth Affinity].¡¯

    Surprisingly, just as he was about to go ahead and increase his understanding of [Earth Affinity] to be at the same level as the other affinities, another notification sound resounded in his mind.

    Ding!

    Soon after that, the feminine-sounding voice of the system was soon heard in his mind, asking him, ¡°You have obtained great affinities with the four foundational elements. Would you like to fuse them and obtain [Lesser Origin Affinity]? By doing so, you would be eligible to participate in the Origin Trials.¡±

    Listening to the system¡¯s words for a bit, he pondered as to whether he should ept the offer or not.

    Unexpectedly, it did not take long for him toe to an answer as he replied in his mind with¡­

    ¡°No.¡±

    ¡°Well, to be more exact¡­¡±

    ¡°Not yet.¡±

    ¡ª¡ª¨C

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 Chapter 275: Returning to Tempest Cliff

    Chapter 275: Returning to Tempest Cliff

    Ding!

    As a response to Argentum¡¯s answer, the system went ahead and let a notification sound resound throughout his mind, which was soon followed up with the feminine-sounding voice of the system. It said, ¡°Since the user has decided to not fuse the four elemental affinities into one for now, the system will not force the user to ept the request as the system has noticed that the user has greater intent behind the decision.¡±

    ¡°Though if the user wishes to fuse the four affinities into one, the user may do so at any time,¡± it soon added before finishing, allowing Argentum toe back to reality. Just as he was about to tell Felix that he was going to head back to the unupied room to enhance his understanding over some other stuff, he could not help but notice the shocked aura Felix was radiating, as if he was at a loss for words.

    ¡°Is there a problem, Felix?¡± Argentum asked Felix, which seemingly brought him back to reality as Felix uttered, ¡°Huh?¡± Looking around for a bit, Felix eventually let out a sigh of relief before focusing his sense of vision onto Argentum. As he looked at him, he took in a deep breath as a faint aura of tion radiated from him, prompting him to ask Argentum, ¡°Did you¡­do it?¡±

    ¡°Do what?¡± Argentum asked in response, not understanding what Felix was trying to say. Seeing that there was no point beating around the bush, Felix went with a straightforward approach this time, asking, ¡°Did you obtain the Lesser Origin element?¡±

    Thinking that Argentum was going to mystify the fact that he had indeed obtained the Lesser Origin element, Felix went ahead and prepared himself for such an oue¡­only for it to be shattered as Argentum sinctly answered, ¡°Ah, no.¡±

    ¡°No?¡± Felix could not understand why Argentum had not obtained the element yet. Exining what he sensed from him while he was talking to the system, he said, ¡°If that¡¯s the case, what did I sense a while ago? A while ago, I felt something like four entities about to fuse to harmonize with one another, only for it to separate and continue existing as separate entities. What happened?¡±

    Listening to Felix¡¯s narration of what had happened while he was talking to the system, Argentum decided to not hide anything from him, though he would still hide the existence of the system from him. Imitating the sound of one clearing their throat, he answered, ¡°It is as you¡¯ve sensed. I was given the chance to fuse the four elemental affinities, but decided otherwise as I was aiming for a better oue.¡±

    ¡°A better oue?¡± Felix asked, not understanding what Argentum meant. ¡°What could possibly be a better oue than obtaining the Lesser Origin element?¡±

    Rather than giving Felix the answer directly, Argentum responded, ¡°Do you remember what the Tome of the Four Elements contains?¡±

    ¡°Well, I did hear some things about it, talking about how bing its sole owner would allow the wielder to obtain a version of the four elements that¡¯s far better than themonly used ones,¡± Felix said as a response to Argentum¡¯s words, only to realize what Argentum was hinting. With the statement he just said in his mind, he went ahead and asked in a slightly cautious tone, saying, ¡°Are you telling me¡­you want your control over the elements to be far better before fusing them as one.¡±

    ¡°More or less,¡± Argentum answered, thinking that there was no point exining further since that was the easiest way to put it. Hearing Argentum¡¯s response, Felix could not help but mutter, ¡°I¡¯ve met a few Pseudo-Animates in the past fuse their understanding together and obtain the Lesser Origin element, but never have I heard of one postponing their fusion in order to obtain a better version of the Lesser Origin element.¡±

    After saying all of that, he went ahead and looked at Argentum before asking in an uncertain tone, ¡°Is that even possible?¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t know, but there¡¯s no harm in trying it out,¡± Argentum said in response with a light chuckle, radiating an aura that seemed to be at the pinnacle of self-confidence. And with that, Argentum went ahead and headed back to the unupied room after telling Felix that he¡¯ll be improving his understanding of the four elements.

    On the other hand, Felix could not help but look at the fleeting silhouette of Argentum as he scratched his head, muttering, ¡°I think I might lose my mind if my expectations of Argentum are low.¡±

    ¡­

    After a couple of minutes, Argentum was finally back at the room where he first attempted to obtain [Earth Affinity]. With that thought in mind, he remembered that there was still around an hour¡¯s worth of effect left from the potion. He then wondered whether he should focus on learning Earth-based magic spells since he now had an affinity with the Earth element.

    Surprisingly, it did not take long for Argentum to conclude that although his perception of the Earth element was still at an all-time high, and that he had obtained the [Earth Affinity] skill. It would still be better for him to enter an area filled to the brim with Earth energy particles before doing so since that would allow him to improve in Earth-based skills the most.

    ¡°I guess I¡¯ll improve [Water Affinity] then,¡± Argentum soon muttered to himself as a determined aura radiated from him. Of course, this was the most natural conclusion one woulde to after realizing that one was in an area filled to the brim with Water energy particles. As he thought about improving his [Water Affinity] skill, he could not help but remember that he had a Heaven¡¯s Water Potion, removing it from the system¡¯s inventory soon after before chugging it down through his torso. Naturally, the Tome of the Four Elements was ced on the ground before doing so.

    Ding!

    ¡®You have ingested the Heaven¡¯s Water Potion.¡¯

    ¡®Your perception of the Water element has increased by 200%¡¯

    ¡®Time remaining before buff wears out: 1 hour 59 minutes¡¯

    In less than an instant, the feeling he felt from the Water energy particles in his room alone was that of a big family that all thought of him as the best person in the family. With that kind of feeling, he went ahead and estimated the amount of progress he would obtain from the two hour buff of the Heaven¡¯s Water Potion, in tandem with his already high level [Water Affinity].

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡± After pondering over it for a bit, Argentum went ahead and concluded that although he may not reach the level of [True Water Affinity], which was the highest possible level of affinity obtainable from the Tome of the Four Elements, he would still be able to reach the Animate level of [Water Affinity], which he termed as [Animate Water Affinity] to differentiate from his current [Water Affinity] skill.

    In actuality, for one to be the sole owner of the Tome of the Four Elements, one needed to have an affinity with the four elements at the level of an Animate. Argentum knew this very well as he rummaged through Aurus¡¯s memories, remembering that the holder of the tome in ISE told everyone about the requirements to be its sole owner, which was to have an understanding of all four foundational elements at the Animate level.

    This holder also said that a Pseudo-Animate could be the owner of the tome, but would still need an understanding of the four elements at the Animate level in order for it to happen.

    Conjuring a few tendrils to go ahead and skim through the tome, Argentum went ahead and obtained information regarding [Water Affinity] and [Animate Water Affinity], organizing it soon after, just like what he did for [Earth Affinity].

    After doing so, he went ahead and sat down on the cold ground, allowing him to be more connected with the Water energy particles in the surroundings. He then closed his sense of vision before attuning his body to the energy of the Water energy particles, starting his two-hour session of improving his affinity with the Water element.

    ¡­

    Exactly two hours have passed since Argentum has started in his journey to improving his affinity with the Water element. At this moment, if one were to look from afar, one would think that Argentum was a part of the room, as if he was made out of the Water element itself. To be honest, one would not be wrong in thinking that as after two hours of contemtion and understanding, the green energy that made up his body now took on a light blue hue, turning into a shade of blue-green.

    Ding!

    ¡®The effect of the Heaven¡¯s Water Potion has now dissipated.¡¯

    With a notification sound resounding throughout his mind, Argentum was brought back to reality as he opened his eyes. A few secondster, he went ahead and stood up, lightly stretching his body as he currently felt like he was being tightly hugged by the Water energy particles in the surroundings. While lightly stretching his body, he noticed that the energy making up his body was not fully green anymore. Instead, the lower half of his body had taken on a dark blue hue, with a few spots popping up on his upper body as well. With a sight like this greeting his sense of vision, he could not help but ponder as to how such a thing happened.

    Fortunately, it did not take long for him to specte as to what the reason was, remembering what he had achieved in these past two hours.

    ¡°Well, it does make sense,¡± Argentum muttered to himself. ¡°With [Water Affinity] now being at the Animate level, it would make sense for it to overwhelm to the Wind element in my body.¡±

    Indeed, Argentum had achieved [Animate Water Affinity] in these past two hours. Of course, it was not just any simple [Animate Water Affinity], but rather, [Animate Water Affinity] that was about one-fourth of the way to transforming into [True Water Affinity].

    Although that progress of one-fourth did not seem like much, after achieving it, Argentum felt that he could peer through the elementary particles that made up Water energy particles, as well as understand their innate intent. After understanding their innate intent, he could not help but think that he was emting it, being as calm and flexible as the flow of water.

    Now that he was finished with stretching his body, he headed out of the room he was in, only for him to coincidentally meet up with Blob and Eleanor, who had just gotten out of the room as well.

    ¡°What happened to you while I was in Blob¡¯s room, Argentum?¡± Eleanor could not help but ask, noticing that the energy Argentum was made out of now felt like two elements instead of one. In response, Argentum let out a light chuckle as he responded, ¡°My understanding of water has improved to a level wherein I can even consider it as my main element.¡±

    He soon radiated the full extent of his aura, allowing Eleanor and Blob, as well as Felix, who was in the background, to sense the aura of water. At first, it was as calm as ake without impurities. Soon, it turned ferocious, akin to a river raging amidst a storm. And eventually, it was a mix of both calm and ferocious, giving the three a feeling like they were going to be hit by a tsunami.

    Sensing Argentum¡¯s aura, Felix could not help but mutter in disbelief, ¡°Animate level¡­¡±

    ¡°Did you say something, Felix?¡± Eleanor asked Felix, who faintly heard Felix muttering.

    In response, Felix imitated the sound of one clearing as he responded in a tone of awe, ¡°To think that a Normal-grade Pseudo-Animate would be able to bring their understanding of an element to the Animate level¡­truly unbelievable.¡±

    ¡°Now that you mention it, you¡¯re right,¡± Eleanor pondered before saying. She then looked at Argentum and said while happily giggling, ¡°Hey, Argentum. Just so you understand where Felix¡¯s shock ising from, it took him around 15,000 years to achieve the Animate level. And here you are, achieving it in what? Three hours or something?¡±

    Argentum lightly chuckled in response to Eleanor¡¯s words, not knowing what to say. He then went ahead and focused his sense of vision towards Blob, noticing that the aura he was radiating was now akin to a sheathed de, ready to sh out at any instance. Nevertheless, this did not stop him from feeling a sense of danger from him, making him radiate an aura of excitement as he asked, ¡°How was your session with Eleanor, Blob?¡±

    ¡°Superb,¡± Blob replied sinctly as an aura of happiness radiated from him. He then looked at Eleanor for a bit before continuing, ¡°She¡¯s truly a great teacher.¡±

    ¡°I know, right?¡± Argentum giggled as he responded. ¡°Anyways, Blob. I think it¡¯s time for us to leave.¡±

    ¡°Leave?¡± Blob tilted his head in confusion. ¡°Where are we going?¡±

    ¡°Somewhere I should have headed to after I was done with what I needed to do in Verdant Breeze Town,¡± Argentum responded in a serious yet calm manner.

    ¡°Where I originally came from¡­¡±

    ¡°Tempest Cliff.¡±

    ¡ª¡ª¨C

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 Chapter 276: Coming Back Home

    Chapter 276: Coming Back Home

    ¡°I see,¡± Blob nodded in understanding, only for his sense of vision to focus on various areas of the room Felix resided in, instead of focusing on his creator instead. Although Argentum had noticed this after Blob was finished responding, he was interrupted from asking Blob as to why, with Eleanor chiming in as she asked in a curious tone, ¡°Tempest Cliff? Ain¡¯t that one of the ces in the continent where Wind energy particles are concentrated?¡±

    In response, Argentum nodded to the query, responding with, ¡°That would be a yes. That is also where I originated from.¡± After that, he focused his vision on Blob once more, who was still looking around aimlessly, only to be barred from asking him once more as Felix went ahead and asked Argentum this time.

    He interrupted Argentum from getting closer to Blob before going ahead and pondering over a question he could ask him. A few secondster, he opened his mouth and asked, ¡°What are you nning to do once you get back?¡±

    ¡°Now that you mention, I haven¡¯t thought about that,¡± Argentum responded with a tone of slight gratitude as he mulled over the question for a bit. In a matter of a few seconds, he had formted a rough n of what he was going to do once he came back, saying, ¡°First off, I¡¯m gonna improve my understanding of the Wind element. After that, probably head to the Inferno ins and an area where the Earth energy particles are condensed so I could raise my understanding of the elements to an extremely high level.¡±

    ¡°And then, I would go ahead and attempt the Origin Trials,¡± Argentum added after that. As he finished his response, he noticed that both Felix and Eleanor were silently looking at each other before focusing their gazes onto Blob for quite some time. Noticing this, Argentum felt that something was off, as if he was excluded from something he should have the right to know.

    With that in mind, he imitated the sound of one clearing their throat, attracting the attention of the three as he calmly asked, ¡°Does there seem to be a problem? I noticed that the three of you have been silent for quite some time. Is it something I should know of?¡±

    ¡°Well¡­¡± Felix was the first one to respond to Argentum¡¯s questions, with the other two looking at him, waiting on what he was going to say. Eventually, he decided to spill the beans as he let out a low sigh, looking at Argentum with a slightly guilty gaze as he said, ¡°Argentum, let me just say that¡­I¡¯m sorry.¡±

    ¡°Sorry? What for?¡± Argentum tilted his head in confusion as he did not expect Felix to say something like that to him. Wondering what was going on, Blob went ahead and took a few steps forward, cing one of his hands on Argentum¡¯s shoulder as he radiated a guilty aura. Taking in a deep breath, he asked in a slightly apologetic tone, ¡°Argentum¡­¡±

    ¡°Is it fine if I don¡¯t join you on your journey back to the Tempest Cliff?¡±

    ¡°¡­eh?¡± It took around thirty seconds or so for Argentum to realize what hispanion was saying to him. He was in great disbelief that the being he had nurtured for quite a long amount of time, was now deciding to part ways with him. Although Argentum wanted to radiate an aura of disbelief and burst out into a rage, he did not do so as he suppressed his urges to the maximum, taking a deep breath soon after.

    With hisposure back to normal, he looked at Blob before opening his mouth to ask a question, with thest part of his question having a hint of anger in it as he said, ¡°Is there a reason as to why you don¡¯t want to join me on my journey back?¡±

    ¡°Er¡­¡± As Blob scratched his head while hemming and hawing, he went ahead and recalled the reasons he formed in his mind while he was with Eleanor. Surprisingly, this decision to not join Argentum on his journey back had something to do with Eleanor.

    After a couple of minutes of silence surrounding the four of them, Blob eventually opened his mouth as he responded, ¡°Well¡­although I would be able to unleash great amounts of power in that ce without difficulty, in terms of improving mybat power while we¡¯re not fighting, it¡¯ll be harder to do so in an area filled with Wind energy particles, don¡¯t you think?¡±

    ¡°Well¡­that makes sense,¡± Argentum eventually said after pondering over it for a bit. Nevertheless, he could not help but wonder as to what Blob was going to do while he made his way back to the Tempest Cliff. Feeling the need to obtain an answer, he hastily asked, ¡°If you¡¯re not going to join me in this journey, then what are you going to do?¡±

    ¡°Let me answer this one,¡± Eleanor said to Blob before he could answer, slightly startling Argentum as he pondered over the current situation. With how Eleanor took the initiative to answer his question, he could not help but think that Eleanor had something to do with Blob deciding not to join him on his way back.

    Unfortunately for him, his hypothesis was correct as she responded, ¡°While you head back to Tempest Cliff to go do your own things, Blob decided to learn under my tutge, improving his control over the Fire element, as well as his control over his skills and spells. Of course, he would always be in my me Spirit Inheritance, which is a ce you can easily ess. You don¡¯t need to worry that much, Argentum.¡±

    Listening to Eleanor¡¯s response, Argentum went silent for a bit before asking the two of them, ¡°Is this something the two of you have agreed upon while you two were inside that room?¡±

    In response, the two of them nodded in unison, prompting Argentum to look at Blob in silence, waiting for him to exin why he decided to such a thing. Fortunately for him, Blob opened his mouth to exin just that, as if he was reading his creator¡¯s mind as he said, ¡°Remember what I felt after you cleared your Power Baptism, Argentum? That feeling of helplessness?¡±

    ¡°Yeah? What about it?¡± Argentum replied, to which Blob answered with, ¡°Well, to cheer me up, you told me that there are still a ton of ces that I could fill in while you can¡¯t.¡±

    Enveloped in a faint apologetic aura, Blob added, ¡°What I¡¯m doing is just enhancing my strengths so I can make sure I can fill those holes without a problem, even if you grow stronger than me.¡±

    ¡°You could say that I¡¯m being selfish since I decided without your consent to do this,¡± he continued before adding, ¡°But I feel like if I did not do this, I would regret this in the future.¡±

    ¡°And with that, I would like to apologize that I can¡¯t join you, Argentum,¡± Blob gradually bowed in front of Argentum as an apology, only to hear a light chucklee out of Argentum¡¯s mouth. Radiating a brief aura of confusion, Blob looked at his creator, noticing that he was exuding a rxed and carefree aura.

    Letting out a sigh of relief after he was finishedughing, Argentum looked at Blob and said, ¡°You should have told me directly that you were going to do something like this. I don¡¯t like it when people beat around the bush, you know?¡±

    ¡°Ah? Blob uttered in response, eventually letting out a giggle of his own as he let out a sigh of relief as well. Soon after, he said to his creator, ¡°I¡¯ll keep that in mind the next time we meet up.¡±

    ¡°I definitely hope you do,¡± Argentum said in response as a slightly gleeful and ted aura radiated from him,bining with the carefree aura he had from before. He then went ahead and looked at Felix and Eleanor before saying with a joking chortle, ¡°I guess I¡¯m gonna head back solo. I hope you two take care of Blob well while I¡¯m away, okay?¡±

    ¡°Although I¡¯m of an element advantageous against Blob, I¡¯ll make sure to teach him better control over his skills and spells,¡± Felix said in response with a faint happy aura surrounding him. He then added, ¡°You don¡¯t have to worry about a thing.¡±

    Following up on Felix¡¯s words, Eleanor profusely nodded as she said, ¡°Yeah, yeah! You don¡¯t have to worry about a thing, Argentum. Under my tutge, you¡¯ll be amazed at how much power he could unleash once you two meet again!¡±

    Just as Eleanor thought that the conversation would end there, a familiar voice resounded inside her mind, slightly radiating killing intent as it said, ¡°If you increase my control over the inheritance to a 50-50 split, then I¡¯ll forget about the grudge I made just now.¡±

    Knowing very well that Argentum could easily be a powerful being in just a short amount of time, Eleanor hastily replied in her mind, saying, ¡°Alright, alright! I¡¯ll increase your control to 50%. Will that make you happy?¡±

    In response, the familiar voice spoke in a cheerful tone as it replied, ¡°Yeah, that definitely makes me happy. Thanks, Eleanor.¡±

    After that, the four of them went ahead and bade farewell to each other, with Argentum being the first one to exit the Grand Blue Inheritance, leaving the three to their own devices.

    Being greeted with the sight of Water energy particles everywhere, Argentum went ahead and took in a deep breath of the air in the surroundings, feeling that if he just attuned his body¡¯s energy for just a second, he would be one with the surroundings. Nevertheless, he only savored the feeling for a short moment before going ahead andmanding the system to open up a map of the continent. After setting up a route on the map that would allow him to reach his desired ce in the shortest amount of time, Argentum went ahead and activated all of his movement speed boosting buffs.

    ¡°[Zephyr Tempest Brilliance++]!¡±

    ¡°[Grand Azure Transformation++]!¡±

    ¡°[Higher Zephyr Magic: Zephyr Burst]!¡±

    ¡°¡­¡±

    ¡°¡­¡±

    ¡°[Higher Zephyr Magic: Zephyr Magna eliaris]!¡±

    Whoosh!

    In an instant, the power surging throughout his body had increased by multiple notches, with most of it specifically aimed towards boosting his movement speed. Lightly stretching his body to limate himself to his newly obtained power while looking at the sun to check what time it currently was, Argentum eventually channeled all of the energy inside his body towards his feet, traversing a distance of over a couple hundred meters in less than an instant.

    And just like that, Argentum had now set off to head back to Tempest Cliff, only taking a little bit over a week to fulfill all of the goals he had in mind.

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    Due to his stats being greatly boosted by his skills and spells, the number of breaks he had to take to replenish his stamina had been drastically reduced, allowing him to traverse almost twenty kilometers before running out of energy.

    Nevertheless, while dashing his way back to Tempest Cliff, he could not help but feel that it would be better if Blob was beside him since that would allow him to focus on improving his skills while the gap between him and the ce he had to go to would be shortened.

    ¡°Well, I could go back to doing that thing,¡± Argentum muttered to himself, recalling the start of his journey wherein he grinded his skills while heading towards the ce he had in mind. After mulling over it for a bit, he concluded that it was better for him to not do so as his current skills were now more shy than his previous ones to a greater degree. If an Animate even saw a small glimpse of such a spell, there was a likely chance that he would be captured and transformed into luxury goods.

    After that, he then pondered as to whether or not Herellia and Horell, who both of which were close to Aurus, would recognize him. Fortunately, it did not take long for him to remember that he told his original body that he shouldn¡¯t be introduced just yet since he was weaker than his original body. With that in mind, he could not help but let out a slight snicker as he muttered to himself, ¡°I wonder who would him between me and the original body? Surely, I would gain the upper edge, right?¡±

    Deciding that he would just introduce himself properly if they did not recognize him, he continued with his journey to heading back to Tempest Cliff.

    Naturally, while he was doing just that, time passed. At first, it was only minutes that passed¡­then hours¡­then days.

    It was only after three days, with the sun positioned right at the peak of the sky, did a change ur on Argentum¡¯s journey, with a familiarndscapeing into view thanks to Argentum¡¯s enhanced vision.

    Noticing how the trees were structured peculiarlypared to the trees currently in the other parts of the surroundings, Argentum could not believe that he had already reached his destination. But then, he felt the harsh winds that blew throughout the trees, allowing him to recall the familiar feeling he felt while he was inside a familiar ce.

    At this point, an aura of extreme tion and happiness radiated from him as he felt like he could not hide his happiness. Taking in a deep breath before jumping for joy, he went ahead and shouted, ¡°Tempest Cliff!¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m finally back!¡±

    ¡ª¡ª¨C

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 Chapter 277: A Hostile Greeting

    Chapter 277: A Hostile Greeting

    Tempest Cliff, inside the Verdant Blossom Branch Alliance¡¯s small ecosystem.

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    Within one of the rooms inside the Tower of Seclusion, one would be able to find a humanoid made out of light blue energy sitting on the ground. At the moment, multiple specks of light blue light flitted around its body, making one feel that they were looking at an elementalmonly found in forests. On top of that, the aura this being radiated was akin to the feeling one felt from having a soft breeze caress one¡¯s skin. Surprisingly, one would also feel rxed and calm while looking at the being. This being was none other than Horell, the Supreme Guardian of the Verdant Blossom Branch Alliance.

    After Aurus had undergone his process of evolution, the strength of the alliance as a whole had been bolstered to a great degree under the leadership of three experienced leaders. Adding on the fact that the alliance had also leveled up thanks to it, one could say that if the war between Chonk and the alliance had happened once more, the overwhelming victory the alliance obtained would be more overwhelming than before.

    As multiple specks of light continued to flit around his body, Horell¡¯s sense of vision was currently closed, allowing his senses to sharpen as he focused on improving hisbat power. Although he was the Supreme Guardian of the alliance, the strength he had a Pseudo-Animate was nowcking, prompting him to go ahead and seclude himself for improvement as he recalled the strength the three leaders showed.

    Naturally, Horell epted the fact that Herellia was stronger than him. Since she was the leader of the alliance, it would not make sense if she had a level of power less than that of the Supreme Guardian. What urged Horell to go ahead and improve himself was, in fact, the two other leaders of the alliance, which were Harriott and Cermalia.

    Since their respective alliances had been destroyed by Chonk, they were fine with bing Elders of the alliance. But being equipped with the knowledge and know-how they had before that happened,bined with the power of the current alliance, it made sense that they would grow back to their original strength in no time¡­and that¡¯s exactly what happened.

    By arduously fighting against Inanimates for over half a week, their power had now returned to that of an X-grade Inanimate. On top of that, it seemed to surpass their original strength as well. At this point, Horell decided to spar with them to see how strong they¡¯ve gotten, only to find out that their strengths at full power were actuallyparable to his.

    ¡°As expected from the former leaders,¡± Horell muttered to himself as he let out a sigh. After that, he continued to manipte the specks of light surrounding his body, understanding their intrinsic nature.

    Unfortunately, just as Horell felt that he was about to achieve a breakthrough in his understanding of the blue specks of light, a terrifying aura from afar washed over his body, prompting him to abruptly halt his training session as the feeling he felt from that aura was something he did not ignore.

    A feeling of fear and death.

    In an instant, Horell opened his sense of vision before going ahead and muttering incantations, conjuring a few magic circles over his hands a few secondster. He then sent these circles towards the direction where he felt the aura, allowing him to obtain more information about who the being that radiated the aura was. It only took a few seconds for him to collect the information while the being that radiated it was left unaware.

    With that information in mind, he hastily sent a strand of energy towards Herellia, informing her that he had important news to tell her. After that, he went ahead and disappeared from the room he was in an instant, appearing in another ce not a secondter. After repeating that for a couple more times, he had eventually arrived at where Herellia was at.

    Greeting him was the sight of arge branch covered in crimson red veins, radiating an aura that took on a shade of crimson red. Even though Horell was not inside the aura, it was enough for him to feel the intense bloodlust brought about by the aura. Of course, this branch was none other than the leader of the Verdant Blossom Branch Alliance, Herellia.

    Whoosh!

    With the aura surrounding her being dispelled in less than a second, Herellia soon opened her sense of vision before focusing on Horell, who was currently in front of her. Reading the message contained in the strand of energy he sent her, she then went ahead and asked him, ¡°What news do you have to tell me?¡±

    ¡°Probably bad news,¡± Horell replied, radiating an aura of slight fear and trepidation. In response, Herellia replied, ¡°Oh? How so?¡±

    ¡°While I was training in the Tower of Seclusion, I sensed an aura stronger than myself enter the Tempest Cliff,¡± Horell responded to her question. He then continued, ¡°At first, I thought this being was only passing through the Tempest Cliff to head towards another direction. But then, I went ahead and utilized a few spells to predict the being¡¯s path.¡±

    ¡°Surprisingly, the path that being is taking ends at our base,¡± he added, making Herellia feel like another problem involving the alliance was about to appear once more.

    ¡°Did you check what existence level that being is at?¡± Herellia soon asked after absorbing all the information, with Horell nodding his head as he replied, ¡°Pseudo-Animate, though on the stronger side.¡±

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡± Herellia mulled over their possible course of action for quite some time. Eventually, she looked at Horell and asked, ¡°Although I could go ahead and utilize the thing I did back in the war, it takes a long time for it to be prepared.¡±

    ¡°Do you think you can go and confront that being in my stead?¡± she added not long after, to which Horell lightly nodded. He then uttered, ¡°Although I¡¯m not sure if I can defeat the being, I¡¯m sure I could stall for time, giving you enough time to prepare that technique.¡±

    ¡°As expected of you,¡± Herellia said in response to his statement, letting out a light chuckle afterward. She then pondered over Horell¡¯s chances of stalling for enough time, concluding that it would be better if he had ess to that certain technique.

    Just as Horell thought that the conversation between them was over, Herellia suddenly said, ¡°You know what? To make sure you can stall for enough time, you can use the Supreme Alliance skill.¡±

    ¡°Are you serious?¡± Horell could not help but ask, radiating an aura of slight disbelief. At most, he thought that he would just have to rely on his skills and hope that luck was on his side. But with the Supreme Alliance skill in his arsenal, he was sure that he could stall for enough time. Of course, he did not show his excitement in being the first one to use it in a fight, maintaining hisposure.

    ¡°Mhm,¡± Herellia uttered before saying, ¡°Don¡¯t use it at the start. Only use it as ast resort, okay?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll keep that in mind,¡± Horell replied as he nodded. He then said his goodbyes to Herellia before disappearing in front of her field of vision. At the very instant Herellia was now alone, she muttered to herself, ¡°I wonder if the alliance would be in danger in front of such a being.¡±

    ¡°But now that I think about it, from the information Horell gave me, why do I feel like that aura is quite familiar?¡±

    ¡­

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    With all of his movement speed boosting skills and spells activated, it was a literal breeze for Argentum to tread through the terrain of Tempest Cliff, which he once thought was hard to do if one could not teleport. Nevertheless, even though he was dashing at ludicrous speeds, with the help of his enhanced senses, he was still able to see everything around him in great detail, allowing him to appreciate thendscape of Tempest Cliff, even though harsh winds always blew in the area.

    ¡°No otherndscape truly beats thendscape of where you came from,¡± Argentum muttered to himself as he let out a light chuckle.

    After that, he continued dashing through the terrain, utilizing the system¡¯s map to plot out a route that would take him the least time to arrive in front of his destination. Naturally, being the clone of Aurus, the destination he had in mind was none other than the base of the Verdant Blossom Branch Alliance.

    Whoosh!

    As a few more minutes passed, the sight of arge entrance soon greeted his vision, increasing the amount of tion he felt when he knew he was getting even closer. Eventually, Argentum stopped running, allowing him to appreciate the sight of the entrance from a few meters away.

    ¡°Now I¡¯m seriously back,¡± he muttered to himself with a soft giggle as he looked at the base with an aura of nostalgia radiating from him. Just as he was about to take a few steps to enter the base, his enhanced vision could not help but notice that a being familiar to Aurus had appeared at the periphery of the entrance, its sense of vision focused at him.

    Radiating an aura of calm andposure with a hint of killing intent, this being made Argentum feel like he was not allowed to enter the base. But being familiar with the energy of the being a decent distance away from him thanks to his shared memories with Aurus, Argentum could not help but initiate a conversation by saying, ¡°Hello there! It¡¯s nice to meet y¡ª¡±

    Unfortunately, before he could even finish his greeting, this being¡¯s aura had abruptly changed to that of hostility as its voice resounded throughout the area.

    ¡°Who are you?¡± the being asked. ¡°What¡¯s your purpose foring here?¡±

    ¡°Er¡­¡± Argentum hemmed and hawed in response to the being¡¯s question, pondering over the approach he was going to use to answer the being¡¯s question. Naturally, he knew that this being was Horell, but Horell did not know him at all since Aurus and he had decided to not introduce him before he came back from his journey.

    ¡®I wonder why he¡¯s so hostile to me?¡¯ he thought to himself, mulling over the possible reasons as to why. It did not take long for an obvious answer to surface in his mind, asking himself inwardly, ¡°Is it because my strength is deemed a threat to the alliance?¡±

    ¡°Yeah, that seems to be the most likely answer,¡± Argentum softly muttered to himself soon after. With that in mind, he decided that answering Horell¡¯s question politely would be better, making sure that his choice of words did not appear brash or boorish.

    Imitating the sound of one clearing their throat to attract Horell¡¯s attention, Argentum started his answer with a light bow, briefly confusing Horell. Soon after, he opened his mouth and answered Horell¡¯s two questions by saying, ¡°Nice to meet you! My name is Argentum. I came to the Verdant Blossom Branch Alliance to meet up with Aurus.¡±

    ¡°Aurus?¡± Hearing a familiar name being said by the being in front of him, Horell could not help but think pessimistically. He thought that this being was out to get Aurus while he was still in the process of evolution. With that in mind, Horell asked in a serious tone, ¡°What is your rtionship with Aurus?¡±

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡± Since Aurus and he had agreed to not divulge the information that he was his clone before Aurus finished evolving, Argentum decided to answer the question in a way that alluded that the two of them had a very close connection. ¡°Probably blood brothers. That¡¯s how close I am with Aurus.¡±

    ¡°Heh¡­¡± Horell uttered as a sign that he understood what Argentum was saying. But just as Argentum thought that the conversation would end here, allowing him to enter the alliance base without a problem, the aura Horell radiated had intensified by multiple degrees in an instant. Unfortunately for Horell, although it was stronger than before, it was stillcking whenpared to Argentum¡¯s current aura.

    Before Argentum could ask what was happening, Horell took the initiative to start the conversation this time, coldly talking to him as he said, ¡°If any other person were to greet you in front, then you would have already gotten inside. Unfortunately for you, I¡¯m very close with Aurus so I can¡¯t let you get in that easily.¡±

    ¡°How about this?¡± he continued. ¡°If you defeat me, then I¡¯ll allow you to enter the alliance, as long as you¡¯re under my supervision.¡±

    Listening to Horell¡¯s words, Argentum could not help but think of going all-out from the get-go to get it over with. But then, he thought that this would tarnish Horell¡¯s reputation as a Supreme Guardian, so he opted not to do so. Nevertheless, he wanted to know what would happen if the opposite urred, prompting him to ask, ¡°And what if I don¡¯t defeat you?¡±

    ¡°You can¡¯t get in. Simple as that,¡± Horell replied in a cold tone, conjuring a ball of energy that radiated quite a terrifying intent of destruction.

    ¡°Oh,¡± Argentum said in response to his words before pondering over something for a bit.

    Whoosh!

    A few secondster, a ball of blue energy soon hovered over his right palm as he looked at Horell with an aura of expectation. Letting out a light chuckle as he noticed that Horell was ready to fight against him, he said, ¡°Since you¡¯re eager to defeat me, how about you attack first?¡±

    ¡°Just don¡¯t tell me after all of this that you regret this, okay?¡±

    ¡ª¡ª¨C

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    Hope to see you there!

 Chapter 278: Illusory Sanguine Howl

    Chapter 278: Illusory Sanguine Howl

    ¡°Hoh?¡± Listening to Argentum¡¯s words, Horell could not help but feel a bit agitated as he felt like he was being mocked for what he was doing. Increasing the amount of mana that was infused into the ball he was holding, Horell replied to Argentum¡¯s question, saying in a slightly infuriated tone, ¡°Who says I¡¯m the one who¡¯s going to regret doing this?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll make you regret arriving in front of the alliance in the first ce!¡± he shouted soon after, dashing towards Argentum at his full speed. As the gap between them started to be smaller, Argentum looked at Horell with a solemn aura surrounding him, wanting to see what Horell was going to do next. Of course, he already had an idea in mind as to what he was going to do, but he always left some room in his mind for impromptu actions.

    Unfortunately for Argentum, Horell went towards him in the most straightforward manner possible. At the very moment he arrived in front of his enemy, Horell went ahead and swung the ball towards Argentum, wanting to hit him by his side. In response, Argentum channeled all of the energy in his body as he quickly ducked down to avoid the attack. As a result, the ball of energy Horell had conjured was sent on a collision course with a tree, with thetter being split into two parts as the sound of an explosion resounded soon after.

    Returning to his original position, Argentum looked at Horell, who was still looking at him with a wary yet agitated aura surrounding him. Noticing the aura Horell radiated, he thought to himself, ¡®I wonder what I should do in order for this fight to end peacefully?¡¯

    ¡®Well¡­¡¯ Remembering that the conversation they had a while ago had now turned into a fight, he changed his mind as he thought, ¡®In a less destructive manner, rather.¡¯

    Naturally, knowing who Horell was, Argentum did not deem him as an enemy. Not to mention, he also did not consider Horell as an enemy as he knew that it would only take a single attack from him to defeat Horell. Nevertheless, he thought about it from another perspective and concluded that there might be another reason as to why Horell decided to fight against him instead of using a peaceful approach.

    ¡°It¡¯s not like him,¡± Argentum muttered to himself as he looked at what Horell was going to do next. At the moment, Horell¡¯s sense of vision was closed as he attuned his body to the energy in his surroundings. Concurrently, he also extended both of his arms outwards as a slightlyrger ball of energy than before was brewing quite the powerful intent of destroying everything that came across its path.

    ¡°Should I try and dissuade him from continuing this fight?¡± he asked himself soon after as he looked at Horell¡¯s current state. Soon after, another thought rted to his previous question surfaced in his mind as he asked, ¡°Or should I exhaust all of his energy, leaving him with no choice but to give up?¡±

    ¡°Well, that¡¯s a no-brainer,¡± Argentum muttered to himself after asking himself the second question. Letting out a yful chuckle, he then said, ¡°How about I be a viin for once?¡±

    ¡°Is that all you¡¯ve got?¡± With that in mind, the first agenda in his idea was to agitate Horell to attack him more frequently. Letting out a chortle filled with mockery, he then said, ¡°That ball of energy was so slow, dodging it was like taking a rxing walk!¡±

    ¡°Oh? Is that so?¡± Hearing Argentum¡¯s words of mockery, Horell could not help but be a bit more infuriated. Then again, though he was infuriated, he did not let all of the rage get to his head as he remembered his purpose foring out here, which was to stall for time. Nevertheless, he did feel like his reputation was being sullied with the being in front of him easily dodging his attack.

    Eventually, the energy ball he had conjured had reached the maximum amount of energy it could handle, prompting him to reply to Argentum¡¯s words soon after, ¡°If that was slow, then let¡¯s see if you can dodge this one!¡±

    ¡°[Beam of the Grand Navitas]!¡±

    Fwoosh!

    In an instant, the ball of energy had transformed into a beam, heading towards Argentum at a speed multiple times faster than Horell¡¯s dash from before. But just as an aura of expectation and tion surrounded Horell, getting a hunch that this attack would hit Argentum, he soon noticed the aura Argentum was radiating, which infuriated him even further.

    Of course, the aura Argentum was radiating was the previous solemn aura from before, indirectly telling Horell that all of his attacks are nothing in front of him. Not letting the beam collide with his body, Argentum summoned all of the energy in his body once more as he sidestepped, making sure that the distance between him and the beam was barely enough for him to not get hit.

    ¡®Surely, a situation like this would infuriate him even more, no?¡¯ Argentum thought to himself, letting out an aura of slight glee as Horell¡¯s furious aura had reached a higher level. Making sure that he was infuriated at him, Argentum went ahead and scoffed at Horell¡¯s attack once more, saying, ¡°At first, it was a ball. Now, it¡¯s a beam. Do you think changing the shape of your attack would give you a higher chance of inflicting pain on me?¡±

    Without dy, Horell shouted with a tone filled with fury, saying, ¡°Don¡¯t you look down on me! You haven¡¯t seen me at my full power just yet!¡±

    ¡®He¡¯s using his full power now. That¡¯s great. The fight will end faster,¡¯ Argentum thought as he let out an inward sigh of relief as he heard Horell¡¯s reply. He then muttered to himself, ¡°Speaking of which, these movement speed boosting buffs truly help out in this fight.¡±

    The movement speed boosting buffs Argentum used to reach the entrance of the Verdant Blossom Branch Alliance was the reason why he could dodge Horell¡¯s attacks without a problem. Of course, he knew that he had two skills activated that boosted all of his stats. But then, he thought that if he ever needed to show power, those two skills activated would be enough to leave a longsting imprint on a being like Horell.

    ¡°[Will of Nature¡¯s Mana]!¡±

    ¡°[One with Mana]!¡±

    Shouting out the names of skills with fervor and fury, Horell¡¯sbat power had been boosted by a substantial degree in less than an instant, making Horell feel like he had enough power to force Argentum to attack. With that in mind, he instantly decided to use the most powerful skill in his arsenal, extending both hands once more as a magic circle was gradually being conjured.

    Noticing Horell¡¯s current aura, Argentum could not help but think of using a defensive skill like [Grand Azure Armor++] to reduce his chances of getting hit. But then, he remembered that the current buffs he had activated as ofte would be enough to dodge any attacking from Horell, deciding in the end to not use such a skill.

    ¡°On top of that, it would infuriate Horell even more if he saw me dodge his attacks without using a skill,¡± Argentum muttered, letting out a soft chuckle as he wondered how long it would take for Horell to give up.

    Swoosh!

    Apanied by arge gust of wind, the magic circle Horell had conjured soon transformed into what seemed to be a gate made out of his energy. The aura radiating from the gate was, in a way, unique, prompting Argentum to look at it as he felt that the gate reminded him of something familiar. He tried to recall what it was by rummaging through Aurus¡¯s memories, but before he could find that certain memory, Horell had already made his move.

    cing both hands on the gate of mana as he infused more of his energy into it, an intent to kill soon radiated from Horell as he shouted, ¡°Try and dodge this for size!¡±

    ¡°[Gate of Myriad Armaments]!¡±

    ¡°Open!¡±

    Bang!

    As the gate opened up, letting the sound of a wooden gate being opened resound throughout the area, multiple balls of energy were soon formed a few centimeters away from the gate¡¯s entrance, instantly transforming into weapons of all shapes and sizes. Knives, spears, swords, axes, hammers, if one took enough time to look at all of the conjured weapons, one would find out that almost any possible type of weapon was made.

    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!

    Soon after, these weapons were then shot towards Argentum, who finally realized what the gate Horell reminded him of. Uttering out a sound of understanding, he soon said, ¡°Ah! So that¡¯s what it reminded me of! The Gate of Babyl¡ª!¡±

    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!

    Unfortunately for him, just as he was about to finish his sentence, the weapons were now at a small distance away from Argentum that it could be said that it was impossible to dodge such an attack. With each weapon radiating quite a fierce killing intent, normal beings would surely ept their current fate and let the weapons turn them into swiss cheese.

    Of course, that¡¯s just for normal beings.

    Swoosh!

    Relying on the buffs he had activated once more, Argentum went ahead and used all of the energy in his body to distance himself from the weapons by a hundred meters with a single step. Unexpectedly, even though he had dodged the weapons, it seemed that it was only the first wave, with a plethora of weapons soon being conjured in front of the gate once more.

    With the second batch of weapons heading towards his way, Argentum pondered over his choices for a bit, which was either to destroy the gate that created the weapons, or dodge all of the weapons aimed at him until Horell¡¯s energy was exhausted. Since he was not sure if destroying the gate would truly stop the weapons from being conjured, Argentum decided to go with thetter, asking himself, ¡°Surely, he wouldn¡¯t be able to make another batch of weapons after this, right?¡±

    Contrary to Argentum¡¯s beliefs, Horell continued to make a few more batches of weapons, which were all sent towards Argentum. In total, ten batches of weapons were sent towards him, but all of them were easily dodged by him since the trajectory they took was that of a straight line.

    Nevertheless, running around for a short while made him slightly tired, causing him to pant for a bit as he returned to his original position before the opening of the gate. While catching his breath, he focused his sense of vision towards Horell, whose current aura was now at a state of flickering between being filled with power and being powerless. Not only that, but it seemed that Horell¡¯splexion had taken a hit as well, with the energy making up his body now taking on a lighter cyan hue instead of a darker one.

    Continuing to infuriate Horell, Argentum straightened his back as he radiated an arrogant aura before mockingly saying, ¡°You sent quite a ton of weapons at me. At first, I thought I wouldn¡¯t be able to dodge them, but here I am. Don¡¯t you think you should give up at this point?¡±

    ¡°I would never admit defeat to someone like you!¡± Horell shouted in response as he was in the process of recuperating. In his mind, he could not help but think that the being he was fighting against was incredibly tough, even though he did not make a move of his own. With that in mind, he wondered as to whether the reason why Argentum had not attacked yet was because he had weak attack power, but insanely fast reflexes in exchange.

    Betting on that idea, Horell started to chuckle, which soon turned into a mad cackle after a few seconds. As Argentum looked at Horell with a slightly confused aura, Horell looked at Argentum and said, ¡°Now that I think about it, you haven¡¯t retaliated against my attacks. Is it because you don¡¯t have enough attack power to defeat me? Is that why you¡¯re resorting to mocking me?¡±

    In response, Argentum went silent as he pondered over something for a bit. After a few seconds, he then extended his right arm before pointing at Horell. Not understanding what Argentum was doing, Horell let out another loud cackle as he scoffed, ¡°Pointing at me? For what reason? Are you trying to scare me into thinking that you have an ace up your slee¡ª?!¡±

    ¡°[Higher Algor Magic]¡­¡±

    ¡°[Water Bolt].¡±

    Whoosh!

    Bang!

    Before Horell could even finish his sentence, a bolt of water was hastily sent to where he was, colliding with him in less than an instant. Thanks to the force behind the water bolt, Horell was sent flying towards the inside of the alliance base, embedding himself into the wall with a loud bang. Seeing the result through his enhanced vision, Argentum replied to Horell¡¯s taunting from before as he asked, ¡°You were saying?¡±

    ¡°Urgh¡­¡± Oblivious to what Argentum said, Horell could not help but let out a groan from the intense pain of crashing into the wall. Nevertheless, even though he was in immense pain, he still remembered the ultimate goal of this fight, which was to stall for time.

    ¡°I think¡­only a few minutes have passed,¡± Horell said to himself while he was getting himself unstuck from the wall, letting out an inward sigh of disappointment, which was directed at himself. After getting himself unstuck, he looked at the silhouette of Argentum from afar, feeling that his reputation as a Supreme Guardian was tarnished due to his arrival. At this point, he just wanted tond a hit on Argentum, not for the sake of the alliance, but his own pride.

    ¡°To think that I¡¯ll be using the Supreme Alliance skill for my own reasons,¡± Horell said to himself, letting out a mocking chuckle soon after. He then continued, ¡°Well, it¡¯s fine to be selfish every once in a while, no?¡±

    ¡°Though I do have to say¡­¡± As Horell prepared the activation of the Supreme Alliance skill, he looked at Argentum once more, recalling a certain being in his memories which seemed to make miracles happen.

    ¡°His power resembles Aurus quite a lot.¡±

    While continuing to mutter the incantation for the Supreme Alliance skill, he went ahead and dashed towards Argentum at full speed, shortening the gap between them in a matter of seconds. As for Argentum, he looked at Horell, who was gradually getting closer, and said in a mocking tone, ¡°Well, well, well. Look who came back to be beaten up by¡ª¡±

    Just as he was about to mock Horell once more to infuriate him, he noticed that the aura radiating from him had changed. It was not an aura that resonated with him anymore, but rather, it was an aura that seemed toe from someone else. Someone with immense bloodlust, as well as someone with great experience in creating falsifications.

    Sensing that the aura of two other beings was now exuding out of Horell, Argentum could not help but be wary of what was about toe. Without hesitation, he went ahead and activated [Grand Azure Armor++] as he examined the aura Horell was radiating even further.

    It did not take him long to find out one of the two beings that had their auras radiating from Horell, letting out an inward gasp of shock as he asked himself in disbelief, ¡°Herellia?¡±

    Unfortunately for him, it seemed that his question would be left unanswered as the aura radiating from Horell had reached its peak, prompting him to sp his hands together before making a pushing motion as he shouted, ¡°With the power of the Alliance Leader and the Elder of Illusions vested in me¡­¡±

    ¡°May this attack repel those who want to inflict harm on the alliance!¡±

    ¡°[Supreme Alliance Skill]!¡±

    ¡°[Illusory Sanguine Howl]!¡±

    ¡ª¡ª¨C

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 Chapter 279: Welcome Back

    Chapter 279: Wee Back

    Awooooo!

    Just as Horell was finished shouting the name of the Supreme Alliance skill, both of his hands were soon covered in crimson red energy, which was apanied by the loud howling of a wolf. Not long after, the energy took on a deeper shade of crimson red as light gray wisps soon circled Horell¡¯s fists, giving off the intent that once the energy on his hands touched something, that item would inevitably crumble into pieces.

    He then went ahead and started to punch out towards Argentum¡¯s direction, with each punch forming a part of what seemed to be arger silhouette. While looking at the silhouette being formed as it gradually headed towards his way, Argentum could not help but feel like the silhouette gradually became familiar to him. Eventually, he found out that his hunch was correct as the silhouette had transformed into a translucent wolf that exhibited the same properties on Horell¡¯s hands a while ago.

    Looking at this translucent wolf for a bit, a certain being that Aurus remembered very well surfaced in his mind, prompting to look at the wolf that was heading towards him with a slightly surprised aura as he muttered in disbelief, ¡°Chonk? How did he turn into this skill?¡±

    Recalling what he knew about Chonk through Aurus¡¯s memories, he was a wolf that yearned to destroy the three alliances in Tempest Cliff in order to be its sole ruler. Unfortunately for him, that n was foiled by Aurus, which was further brought to oblivion thanks to Horell bing a double agent of the current Verdant Blossom Branch Alliance.

    ¡°I can remember that he died thanks to Aurus and Bell,¡± Argentum muttered, only to stop for a bit as he noticed that the translucent wolf was now a meter away from him. Without hesitation, he went ahead and ran at his full speed, finding out that the wolf was chasing him even if he ran away from it. With that observation, he made sure to maintain a decent amount of distance from the wolf before continuing with his pondering. After about ten seconds or so of pondering over what had happened to Chonk, the memory Aurus had regarding the question had finally surfaced in his mind, allowing Argentum to finally find out how Chonk had transformed into that.

    In that memory, Aurus was brought to the alliance hall by Horell before going ahead and asking Herellia as to what the alliance had in store for Chonk¡¯s corpse. In response to that question, Herellia looked at Aurus and said, ¡°The n is very simple. Using my Sanguine Arts, Harriott¡¯s special magic skills, and Cermalia¡¯s great mastery over illusions, we¡¯re nning to ¡®revive¡¯ Chonk and transform him into the greatest trump card of the alliance.¡±

    She then added not long after, ¡°A controble being capable of dishing out Animate level attacks.¡± Of course, to Aurus, he thought that using the corpse of their dead enemy as a trump card felt wrong. Then again, using corpses, in general, was wrong. But then, he thought that if it was for the betterment of the alliance, then doing something like this could be ignored.

    ¡°To think that instead of me using the trump card, it is instead used against me. How ironic,¡± Argentum muttered after he was finished recalling the memory, letting out a mocking chuckle as he felt that he had already run for long enough. In preparation for what he was about to do, he went ahead and focused his sense of vision onto Horell, who was currently looking at him with a vengeful aura radiating from him. Noticing this aura, Argentum could not help but lightly chuckle as he said to himself, ¡°That aura is definitely going to transform in an instant once he finds out what I¡¯m going to do.¡±

    Whoosh!

    Without hesitation, Argentum went ahead and changed his direction of running to head towards Horell, which shocked thetter as he thought that the wolf was about to finally hit the being. But then, seeing that this being was getting closer to him, the vengeful aura he was radiating just a while ago had instantly transformed into fear, knowing very well of the implications that came with his attack.

    ¡°Stay away from me!¡± Horell shouted in a panicked tone, remembering the multiple rounds of testing the Supreme Alliance skill had undergone to reach its current state. At first, the skill could only emte a small portion of Chonk¡¯s power at his peak, making Herellia, the elders, as well as Horell feel that the power behind it wascking. They then continued to refine it for several days as all of them improved their strength in the meantime, eventually reaching the current level of power the skill had, which was at the peak of Rank 0 Animate.

    In response to Horell¡¯s pleas, Argentum radiated a malicious yet yful aura as he lightly giggled. Naturally, he ignored his pleas, allowing the translucent wolf that was chasing him toe closer to Horell, increasing the amount of fear Horell felt. At this moment, the fear Horell radiated was at the level of bing palpable, his thoughts filled with the hope that the wolf doesn¡¯t hit him at thest second.

    Fortunately for him, Argentum did not have any intent to let the wolf hit Horell, stopping just a few meters in front of him before turning around and shouting, ¡°[Higher Ignis Magic: Ignis Burst]!¡±

    Fwoosh!

    In an instant, the aura radiating from Argentum had reached a new high, leaving the shocked Horell at a loss for words. While being at a loss for words, he could not help but remember the words he spewed out to make Argentum hit him. Only now did he realize that Argentum was not weak in terms ofbat power, but rather¡­

    He was a monster when it came to it!

    ¡°[Higher Algor Magic: Water Bolt].¡± Since Argentum had stopped running away from the wolf, that meant that the wolf gradually got closer to him. Unfortunately for the wolf, it would not even be able to fulfill its purpose as Argentum hastily conjured a bolt of water before throwing it at the wolf, dispersing the power forming the wolf in one hit.

    Swoosh! Bang! Bang! Bang!

    Although the power forming the wolf had been dispersed, only a small amount of power forming the bolt of water was exhausted, allowing it to continue in its trajectory before going ahead and easily boring a hole through multiple trees. With the help of his enhanced vision, Argentum soon found out that he had bored a hole through exactly 16 trees, making him scratch his head.

    As he continued to scratch his head, he then turned around to look at Horell, who was currently looking at him with an aura of fear. Just as he thought that Horell was about to thank him for dispersing the wolf before being hit by it, Argentum instead got the exact opposite as Horell shot a beam at him without hesitation while shouting, ¡°Get away from me!¡±

    Whoosh!

    Of course, with the help of his movement speed boosting buffs, he was able to easily dodge a beam, even one that was fired close at him. Nevertheless, after seeing Horell¡¯s next move, he could not help but let out a light sigh as he thought to himself, ¡®Horell has lost it.¡¯

    Bang! Bang! Bang!

    After that beam was a few more attacks fired out in desperation, ranging from beams to balls, to even weapons made out of mana. Naturally, since they were attacks desperately fired, that meant that their uracy was at a level where it would be easy to dodge. In fact, during these attacks, the movement speed boosting buffs Argentum relied upon to dodge had run out of time. But due to the low uracy of the attacks, he was able to activate all of them within a matter of seconds while making sure to dodge the attacks.

    Eventually, the power behind Horell¡¯s attacks gradually became weaker as the amount of energy coursing throughout his body became less. At this moment, the energy making up Horell¡¯s body was as pale of a cyan as it could be, with his body even flickering in and out of existence at times. Noticing this, Argentum finally let out a sigh of relief as he muttered to himself, ¡°His energy is finally exhausted.¡±

    Without hesitation, Argentum headed towards Horell, who unhesitatingly went ahead and tried to fire an attack at the being that wasing closer to him, but all of his attempts to conjure one ended up in a flickering failure. Seeing as he had finally reached his limit, Horell opted to radiate an aura that said ¡®I¡¯ll never give up¡¯ instead, making Argentum inwardly sigh as he thought to himself, ¡®I just want to enter the alliance¡­why is it so hard?¡¯

    ¡°You¡¯ve exhausted all of your energy,¡± Argentum looked at the flickering Horell before saying in a solemn tone. He then asked him, ¡°Will you admit defeat and let me enter the alliance?¡±

    ¡°Never!¡± Contrary to the deal Horell made before the fight started, Horell declined Argentum¡¯s wishes of entering the inheritance as the thoughts in his mind had now be jumbled from intense anger. ¡°You¡¯re going to destroy the alliance from the inside anyway!¡±

    ¡°Huh¡­?¡± Hearing Horell¡¯s words, Argentum could not help but let out a confused aura as his tone had changed to that of slight fury. Feeling like he was being wronged, he soon replied, ¡°The thought of doing that didn¡¯t even cross my mind! I¡¯ve told you from the start that I was just here to meet up with Aurus!¡±

    Just as Horell was about to respond to Argentum¡¯s words, telling him that his statement was aplete and utter falsification, he could not help but sense an intense aura of killing intenting from him, which was apanied by the voice of a female as it said, ¡°Hoh? Meet up with Aurus, huh?¡±

    ¡°Hm?¡± As a familiar voice to Argentum resounded from the main hall, he could not help but focus his sense of vision on the one who spoke, being greeted with the sight of arge branch with red veins all over it while it radiated a dense yet somewhat beautiful crimson red aura. Naturally, thisrge branch was none other than Herellia, the leader of the Verdant Blossom Branch Alliance.

    Thanks to Horell stalling for time, Herellia was able to amass enough energy to utilize the skill she had used in the war against Chonk. Unfortunately for her, even though she came to the entrance of the alliance as fast as possible, the fight was already over, with Horell being defeated. But just as she thought that the being in front of Horell was about to intrude into the alliance, she then heard the being mention the name of someone quite close to her.

    ¡°What is your rtionship with Aurus?¡± she asked not long after as a follow-up to her previous words. In response, Argentum pondered as to whether he should say the same words he told Horell a while ago before deciding to switch it up a bit. With that in mind, he replied, ¡°From a certain perspective, you can say that Aurus and I are one and the same.¡±

    ¡°Is that true?¡± Herellia looked at the worn-out Horell and asked, to which thetter took in a few deep breaths topose himself before replying, ¡°He told me a while ago that he and Aurus were blood brothers, but I decided to doubt the idea and fight off against him.¡±

    ¡°To be honest, that was incredibly stupid,¡± Argentum could not help but say in response to Horell¡¯s words before adding, ¡°That decision of yours is very unlike you, Horell.¡±

    ¡°Wait¡­¡± Hearing his name being mentioned by someone he did not know, Horell could not help but let out an aura of disbelief, with Herellia doing the same as the killing intent surrounding her had immediately dissipated. It took a few seconds for them to snap back to reality, yet they were still in utter disbelief.

    In response to Argentum¡¯s words, Horell cautiously asked him, ¡°How do you¡­know my name?¡±

    ¡°As I¡¯ve said, you can consider me and Aurus to be one and the same,¡± Argentum replied to his question before looking at Herellia and saying, ¡°Of course, I recognize you as well, Herellia. To someone like me, the leader of the Verdant Blossom Branch Alliance is quite the prominent figure.¡±

    ¡°How¡­¡± And just like Horell, Herellia was left at a loss for words after hearing her name being mentioned by the being in front of him. As for Argentum, he could not help but inwardly be happy as he found that his on-the-spot thought of mentioning their names had actually helped out.

    Taking in a few deep breaths to ease her shock, Herellia eventually calmed down before looking at Argentum and asked, ¡°What¡¯s your name? And what do you mean by you and Aurus being one and the same?¡±

    ¡°My name is Argentum, and well¡­¡± At first, Argentum replied by using his voice, but just as he was about to answer the second question Herellia asked, he opted to send a strand of energy to her instead before saying, ¡°What Imean by that is¡­¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m Aurus¡¯s clone. The trump card that he was hiding in the war.¡±

    ¡°Ah?¡± Rather than utilizing energy to respond, Herellia could not help but utter a sound of shock after listening to Argentum¡¯s words, making Horell look at her peculiarly for a bit. Fortunately, she hastilyposed herself before sending back a strand of her own to Argentum, asking, ¡°How could I believe you?¡±

    Of course, hearing that the being in front of her was a clone of Aurus brought her a lot of joy as Aurus was still unconscious. Nevertheless, she still had to make sure that this being in front of him was speaking the truth, lest she wanted to put the alliance in grave danger. Naturally, Argentum had the same idea in mind, deciding that a certain skill Herellia had would be the best way to prove his innocence.

    Sending a strand of energy back, he replied, ¡°Use your [Eyes of Undeceiving Truth] on me, then. Wouldn¡¯t that be enough to show you that my words aren¡¯t lies?¡±

    Hearing the name of one of her skills being mentioned by Argentum, Herellia could not help but be biased at the thought of Argentum actually being a clone of Aurus, although she went ahead and suppressed this urge to ept Argentum into the alliance without verification as she radiated an aura of affirmation before using [Eyes of Undeceiving Truth] on him.

    It did not take long for Herellia to find out the truth, prompting her to radiate an aura of immense tion¡­which she hastily suppressed as it did not fit her image as the Supreme Leader of the alliance. Nevertheless, she was still inwardly happy that Argentum was actually an ally of the alliance, wanting to ask him multiple questions soon after.

    But just as she was about to do so, Argentum went ahead and sent a message to her through a strand of energy, as if he had read her mind.

    ¡°I know you¡¯re eager to ask me a lot of questions, but let¡¯s save that forter. How about you let me enter the alliance first?¡± Argentum said through the strand, to which Herellia had no qualms with as she said without utilizing an energy strand, ¡°Alright.¡±

    She then looked at Horell for a bit before saying, ¡°Horell, make sure to apologize to Argentumter. I¡¯ll exin the details to you once I bring him to where he wants to go.¡±

    Although Horell was quite curious as to what the two were talking about through strands of energy, Horell had finally returned his previous personality as he solemnly nodded, ¡°Alright, then.¡±

    ¡°As for you, Argentum,¡± Herellia said not long after before focusing her sense of vision at Argentum. ¡°Follow me. I¡¯ll lead you to where Aurus is.¡±

    ¡°Understood,¡± Argentum said in response before following Herellia as he noticed that she was already heading towards the small ecosystem of the alliance.

    While making their way to the ecosystem, Herellia could not help but feel incredibly happy since to her, it felt like the alliance was back to normal. With that in mind, she could not help but mutter to herself in a soft yet happy tone¡­

    ¡°Wee back¡­¡±

    ¡°Aurus.¡±

    ¡ª¡ª¨C

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 Chapter 280: Reunion

    Chapter 280: Reunion

    With his movement speed boosting buffs still activated, it did not take long for Herellia and Argentum to enter the small ecosystem of the alliance, only taking over a minute or so to arrive at the end of the corridor. Before heading towards the Tower of Seclusion, where his original body was, Argentum told Herellia that they were going to take a break for a bit, to which Herellia did not have any qualms with.

    After obtaining her approval, Argentum went ahead and took in a deep breath of the surroundings, thinking to himself that there was truly no better ce that could rece the alliance base in his mind. Letting out a sigh of relief and joy, Argentum then muttered, ¡°Haah. It¡¯s truly great to be back.¡±

    ¡°Argentum.¡± Listening to his words, Herellia could not help but be curious as to what Argentum had done before finally arriving at the entrance of the alliance, prompting her to ask him, ¡°If you don¡¯t mind me asking, what were you doing before arriving at the alliance?¡±

    ¡°It would be better if you save that question for ater time, Herellia,¡± Argentum responded in an instant before adding, ¡°For now, I just want to see Aurus again.¡±

    Letting out an aura of affirmation in response to his statement, Herellia then went ahead and headed towards the Tower of Seclusion, with Argentum making sure that he was already beside her while following. Nevertheless, as they made their way to the Tower of Seclusion, Herellia had multiple questions to ask Argentum in her mind. The question she wanted to ask the most was a better understanding of Argentum¡¯s rtionship to Aurus, recalling the message Argentum sent to her as he replied to her question a while ago.

    ¡°Hey, Argentum,¡± Herellia said as she focused her sense of vision on him, to which Argentum focused his sense of vision on her as he asked, ¡°What is it?¡±

    ¡°Although I know that you weren¡¯t lying a while ago thanks to the [Eyes of Undeceiving Truth], I still couldn¡¯t wrap my head around you being Aurus¡¯s clone,¡± Herellia responded to his question before adding, ¡°Could you borate a bit more on what you mean by that?¡±

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡± Argentum pondered on what he was going to say for a bit, rummaging through Aurus¡¯s memories regarding the process of him being made. Eventually, a coherent answer was formed in his mind as he replied, ¡°To be more exact, you can consider me as a vessel of Aurus¡¯s soul. Half of his soul is inside my body, which allows me to converse with you without a problem, while the remaining half is obviously inside his body. Then again, I¡¯m not sure about the specifics so it would be better to ask Aurus regarding this matter instead.¡±

    ¡°Anyways, did that help clear a bit of your confusion?¡± he asked soon after, to which Herellia radiated an aura of affirmation with a mix of uncertainty as she responded, ¡°A bit¡­I guess.¡±

    After that, Herellia went ahead and pondered over new topics to ask about, eventually thinking a certain thought that had a chance of happening. With that in mind, she initiated a conversation with Argentum after a few seconds of silence as she asked, ¡°Now that I think about it, after you meet up with Aurus, are you going to leave the alliance and head elsewhere?¡±

    ¡°For a few days, I don¡¯t think so,¡± Argentum said after thinking about the question for a short while. Getting a hunch that there was a hidden meaning beneath her question, he went ahead and asked a question of his own, saying, ¡°Is there a reason as to why you asked that?¡±

    ¡°Well¡­¡± Although Herellia wanted to answer his question with the thought she had in mind, she decided that it would be better for her to ask him the same question after he was done meeting with Aurus. With that, she responded, ¡°I¡¯ll just tell you the reason after you finish meeting up with Aurus.¡±

    ¡°Alright,¡± Argentum nodded in response as he ced the thought in the back of his mind. After that, the two headed towards the Tower of Seclusion, arriving at the entrance of the building within a couple of minutes.

    They then went ahead and entered the tower, searching through the various rooms and floors of the tower for a few minutes before finding the room where Aurus was residing. Finally sensing a familiar aura radiate from a certain room, Herellia then said to Argentum, who was beside her all this time, in a relieved tone, ¡°We¡¯re finally here. The room where Aurus is in.¡±

    Just like Herellia, Argentum felt Aurus¡¯s aura as well, which originated from inside the room. But thanks to his enhanced senses, he was able to sense even more than that, feeling the slight nuances in his aura. To him, Aurus¡¯s current aura was akin to a beating heart, calming down for a bit before gushing with intense power. Nevertheless, amidst the heart-like movement of his aura, he felt that his aura was also gradually intensifying throughout the process, letting Argentum know that his original body had not reached its limit of improvement just yet.

    ¡°If you don¡¯t need anything else from me, I¡¯ll be taking my leave for now.¡± Seeing that Argentum went silent for a bit, Herellia went ahead and imitated a coughing sound to catch his attention before saying. In response, Argentum lightly nodded as he replied, ¡°Once I¡¯m done with what I have to do here, I¡¯ll make sure to head to where you are.¡±

    After letting out an aura of affirmation in response, Herellia then went ahead and left Argentum to his own devices as she headed towards another part of the small ecosystem. On the other hand, Argentum could not help but take in a deep breath as he looked at the entrance of the room, sensing the other auras that radiated around his original body¡¯s aura. But just as he was about to open the entrance and enter, the entrance was instead opened from the inside, revealing a female humanoid made out of water.

    ¡°Hmm? Who could be outside?¡± The humanoid muttered to herself as a curious expression was stered on her face while opening the entrance. In an instant, the humanoid was soon greeted with the sight of Argentum, who, in response to the current situation, could only wave his hand and awkwardly say, ¡°Uh¡­hi there.¡±

    ¡°Ah?¡± In response to Argentum¡¯s greeting, the humanoid briefly had a confused expression on her face, which soon changed to that of wariness as she turned around and shouted, ¡°Hey, everyone! We got ourselves an intruder!¡±

    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!

    As the sound of movement loudly resounded throughout the room, Argentum could not help but feel that he was being wronged yet again, prompting him to radiate an aura of confusion as he uttered, ¡°Eh?¡±

    ¡°An intruder? Surely, no one would bother Master unless it¡¯s urgent, right?¡± A harmonious masculine voice responded to the humanoid¡¯s statement from a while ago, which was soon to be revealed to Argentum that it came from a sculpture made out of a chiseled rock.

    ¡°Intruder? Does that mean we have to fight?¡± Soon after, another female voice resounded throughout the room, revealing to Argentum a sculpture made out of vines as a red flower sprouted on her head. In response, the humanoid made out of water, who was at the entrance this whole time, responded to the other female¡¯s words as a spear made out of water soon materialized on her free hand before pointing at it towards Argentum by saying, ¡°Depending on this intruder¡¯s next move, we might just have to.¡±

    ¡°I wouldn¡¯t do that if I were you.¡± Unfortunately for the humanoid, just as she was about to attack Argentum, a deep masculine voice resounded throughout the room, which dissuaded her from doing so. Not long after, a feminine voice followed up on the other person¡¯s words, saying, ¡°Yeah. If you do, then you¡¯re basically going to hurt Master.¡±

    Whoosh!

    In an instant, two silhouettes soon showed themselves in front of Argentum, moving the humanoid made out of water to the side as they went ahead and bowed in front of him. The first silhouette was a sculpture of a wolf that radiated an aura of immense regality, while the other silhouette seemed to be a curvy piece of wood covered in ck and white mes.

    Even though their appearances were quite bizarre, the two of them did not hesitate in shouting, ¡°Wee back, Master!¡±

    Scratching his head in response to the two silhouettes¡¯ words, Argentum then let out an awkward chuckle in response as he replied, ¡°I¡¯m just his clone. Your true master is right there.¡±

    ¡°Either way, it¡¯s nice to see you two again,¡± he said not long after, radiating an aura of happiness as he continued, ¡°Fenrir. Charisa.¡±

    As for the other voices that resounded throughout the room a while ago, they could not help but look at the current situation before going ahead and looking at each other with an aura of confusion surrounding them as they simultaneously questioned each other, ¡°That¡¯s Master?¡±

    ¡°So that¡¯s why I felt like the aura of the being outside was familiar,¡± a feminine voice said all of a sudden, originating from a sculpture made out of vines, but with a red flower on her head instead of a yellow one. ¡°To think it was actually Master¡­Phoria is happy.¡±

    ¡°May I enter the room?¡± Feeling that the current atmosphere was still awkward, Argentum went ahead and imitated the sound of one clearing their throat as he asked this question to both Fenrir and Charisa. In response, Charisa went ahead and said, ¡°It¡¯s your room, Master! You¡¯re always wee toe in!¡±

    ¡°As I¡¯ve said, I¡¯m just his clone, but oh well,¡± Argentum could not help but say in response to Charisa¡¯s words before letting out a light chuckle. He then went ahead and entered the room, allowing him to finally see the other figures, that were talking a while ago, more clearly.

    ¡°Terrence, Marielle, Eu, Phoria,¡± Argentum went ahead and said the names of the other figures one by one as he focused his sense of vision on them for a bit. He then added in a happy tone, ¡°It¡¯s nice to see you again.¡±

    ¡°To think that it was actually Master¡¯s cloneing to greet us, what a surprise.¡± The first one to respond to his words was Terrence, letting out a loudugh tinged with slight embarrassment.

    ¡°Just before you say anything, Master, let me apologize in advance, okay? Hehehe.¡± The next one to respond to his words was Eu, letting out a slightly embarrassed giggle as she apologized to Argentum.

    ¡°It¡¯s really good to see you again, Master.¡± Thest one to respond was Phoria, radiating an aura of happiness as she felt that everything was back to normal.

    As for Marielle, who was the humanoid that opened the entrance to the room, she felt incredibly ashamed that she was thinking of attacking their master, prompting her to look down at the floor as she radiated an aura of immense embarrassment. Looking at her for a bit, Argentum went ahead and relieved her embarrassment as he said, ¡°You don¡¯t have to think about it too much, Marielle. To be honest, that was something I should have expected when entering the room.¡±

    In response, Marielle gradually looked up at Argentum before inwardly letting out a sigh of relief, though her expression gave it all away. She then said to Argentum as she took a deep breath, ¡°I apologize for my earlier actions, Master. I hope you can forgive me.¡±

    ¡°No worries. No worries,¡± Argentum said in response to her words before asking everyone, ¡°Anyways, how has everyone been while I was, in a sense, gone?¡±

    ¡°We¡¯ve been improving all of our skills, Master,¡± Terrence responded to his question before adding, ¡°Thanks to Master¡¯sprehension speed, all of us have already reached the peak of Transcendent level for our skills.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s good to hear,¡± Argentum nodded as he said those words. He then pondered over something for a bit before soon asking them, ¡°Now that I think about it, what did you guys do after you were finished grinding your skills?¡±

    ¡°Sleep,¡± Fenrir said in response.

    ¡°Talked with Eu and Phoria,¡± Charisa said in response.

    ¡°Sleep beside Fenrir,¡± Terrence said in response.

    ¡°Polished mybat skills,¡± Marielle said in response.

    ¡°Did any of you get bored?¡± Argentum asked them after hearing their responses, only to hear the six simultaneously say, ¡°No.¡±

    ¡°I see. That¡¯s great,¡± he said not long after before letting out a light chuckle soon after. He then went ahead and focused his sense of vision to where Aurus was, which was at the center of the room. Currently, the body of Aurus was in its usual form, though it seemed that the details on his body had be a bit more exquisite. Not to mention that he was currently covered in a cocoon which took on a light green hue, supplying him with energy that seemed to enhance his aura.

    As he looked at the state of his original body for a bit, a thought soon surfaced in his mind as an aura of solemnity surrounded him. Turning around, he then looked at the six and asked them, ¡°Is it fine if you guys leave me and your master alone for a bit?¡±

    Surprisingly, the six unanimously replied that they were fine with that, unhesitatingly heading out of the room they were previously in as Argentum and Aurus were now left alone. As Argentum saw the six leave the room, he could not help but think that his original body¡¯s allies are truly loyal to him. Taking in a deep breath as he sorted out his thoughts, he then went ahead and poured out what was on his mind as he started to go on what seemed to be a monologue.

    ¡°It¡¯s been 10 days since I¡¯ve left Tempest Cliff to go on a journey to be a Super Animate. Let me tell you that it was definitely a fun and interesting adventure. I had to undergo two inheritances before arriving at the final destination I had in mind. Surprisingly, I became partial owners of those two inheritances! Don¡¯t you think that¡¯s cool?¡±

    ¡°Other than that, my n has been fully fulfilled. I¡¯ve gotten the item that I needed from that town, and now I¡¯m capitalizing on it to make sure that my strength grows at a decently fast pace. Then again, it¡¯s kind of saddening to think that you¡¯re still in the process of evolution. It feels kind of lonely.¡±

    ¡°But, of course, you¡¯ve been through a longer period of loneliness than me, seeing as to how I¡¯ve looked at your memories in the past. Er¡­surely you wouldn¡¯t berate me for doing that, right? Hahaha.¡±

    ¡°Anyways, you better make sure that you don¡¯t disappoint me with your evolution, okay? With you taking such a long time to evolve, I¡¯d be mad if the evolution you chose is utter garbage.¡±

    ¡°Once you finish your evolution, make sure that the first thing you do is meet up with me, okay? I¡¯ll show you how strong I¡¯ve gotten, and you¡¯ll show me how strong you¡¯ve gotten. In other words, let¡¯s fight.¡±

    ¡°All in all¡­¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll be waiting¡­¡±

    ¡°Okay?¡±

    ¡ª¡ª¨C

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 Chapter 281: A Weird Proposition

    Chapter 281: A Weird Proposition

    XXXX Continent, Telmerann Province, inside one of the meeting rooms of the Arcenon family household.

    A man could be seen sipping on a cup of tea in an idyllic manner as he looked out of therge bay window found within the room. Allowing his body to be basked under the warm sun that was at its peak, the man could not help but stretch his body for a bit before going ahead and grabbing a piece of cake to munch on. After taking a few bites of the cake, the man then stood up from his chair and headed towards another part of the room, where a small bookshelf could be found.

    Once one entered the meeting rooms of the Arcenon family household, at first, they would think that the room only had two leather chairs, a table, and arge bay window. But after being in the room for a bit more, they would find out that the room had more amenities than one would think, with a bookshelf being one of them.

    He then looked through the books on the shelf, eventually finding one that seemed to tickle his fancy. Grabbing the book from the shelf, he then looked at the cover of the book and muttered, ¡°The Traveler¡¯s Guide to the Universe. I wonder who wrote this book?¡±

    After that, he then went back to his leather chair and opened the book, only to find out that the book contained more than what he had hoped from such a title. Realizing that there was more to the book, his eyes slightly widened as he let out a light chuckle, saying to himself, ¡°The Arcenon family truly doesn¡¯t change. To think that the selections of books they have for their guests have those kinds of scenes as well.¡±

    Although the man was not a huge fan of those kinds of scenes, he treated them as entertaining portions of the story, allowing time to pass by without him noticing. Eventually, an hour had passed by while he was engrossed in the contents of the book.

    Bang!

    Unfortunately for the man, just as he was about to reach what seemed to be the climax of the book¡­and the scene, the door to the meeting room was opened with great force, revealing a woman who was wearing a light blue dress. On her face was a light grin of ecstasy, which wasplemented with a light red blush on her face, giving off the feeling to anyone that something special must have happened. Then again, from the aura she was radiating, which was one part seductive, the other part ecstatic, they would definitely think that way.

    Behind the woman was a handsome man with ck-rimmed sses in a red robe. At the moment, he ced his hands on his knees as he bent down while gasping for air. Not to mention, a light red blush could be seen on his face as well. To anyone who looked at the two right now, one would definitely think that something special had happened between the two of them.

    Closing the book he was reading since he was interrupted by the two, Vanadir took in a breath of air before looking at the woman. He then asked her with a light smile, ¡°How was your one hour?¡±

    ¡°Amazing,¡± was the only thing she could say as she made her way to the unupied leather chair with a spring in her steps. On the other hand, the man behind her slowly made his way to the left side of Vanadir¡¯s chair while recuperating. At the instant the man had arrived at that spot, the man¡¯splexion was more or less back to normal, though one could see a hint of an annoyed expression on his face.

    Surprisingly, this man went ahead and sent a strand of energy towards the Ninth Prince, telling him in a pleading tone, ¡°Your Highness, whenever something like this happens again, please tell me in advance, okay?¡±

    In response, Vanadir sent back a strand of his own, lightly chuckling in his mind as he responded, ¡°Alright, alright. It was my fault this time. I apologize, Dane. I shouldn¡¯t have made it vague back then when I asked for your permission to follow my orders.¡±

    ¡°But I presume you enjoyed it though?¡± he added as another strand of energy was sent to Dane, which was followed up with a yful giggle. In response, Dane could not help but lightly blush as he remembered what had happened during thatst hour. Fortunately, it did not take long for him topose herself as he sent a strand of energy in response, saying, ¡°Well¡­I do have to say, she is pretty well-endowed in both areas.¡±

    ¡°Though I must admit that she has a weird condition to fulfill before epting requests. Massaging her while she¡¯s naked?¡± Dane could not help but add. He then continued, ¡°If it was any other man doing that, then I¡¯m pretty sure they wouldn¡¯t have hesitated on engaging in¡­¡±

    It was at that point that Dane realized something, remembering the words the Ninth Prince told him before asking him through another strand, ¡°Is that what you meant by people turning into a pool of blood when they got too close to her?¡±

    ¡°Pretty much,¡± Vanadir concisely responded to Dane with a strand of energy as he noticed that Valentia had already gotten over the ecstasy brought about by Dane¡¯s massage.

    ¡°You found a goodpanion, Vanadir,¡± Valentia said with a hint of seduction present in her voice before shivering at the memory of what happened during the past hour. She then went ahead and hugged herself as she continued, ¡°The way his hands caressed over my body¡­the movements he used to make me feel immense pleasure¡­even the sheer thought of it makes me want to spend more time with him and truly engage in some fun!¡±

    ¡°Ahh¡­¡± she moaned in ecstasy soon after as she looked at Dane, who could not help but shudder at the look once more. Unfortunately, just as she was about to stand up and bring Dane to another ce once more, Vanadir cleared his throat to remove Valentia from her daze as he asked, ¡°So¡­are you willing to hear one of my requests?¡±

    In response, Valentia realized what she was doing, knowing that she had already gone too far as she cleared her throat whileposing herself. She then went ahead and closed her eyes for a bit to make sure her current mental state was as calm as it could be. After that, she then looked at Vanadir and said in a slightly serious tone, ¡°Alright. You held up your end of the bargain, so it¡¯s time to hold up mine. What request do you want me to fulfill?¡±

    The Ninth Prince took in a deep breath before replying to her words with a serious tone of his own. Opening his mouth, he said, ¡°I would like you to be a part of my team in the war for the throne, Valentia. With your exemry abilities in healing andbat, I would rest assured that our team would have a fighting chance in the event.¡±

    Unfortunately, contrary to Vanadir¡¯s expectations that she would unhesitatingly ept his proposition, Valentia had a small frown on her face as she let out a sigh before muttering, ¡°Well, that¡¯s going to be a problem.¡±

    ¡°Hmm?¡± Vanadir softly uttered as he picked up her words, wondering at first if he had wrongly. Not long after, he went ahead and looked at Dane beside him before sending a strand of energy, asking, ¡°Did you put too much force in her massage or something?¡±

    ¡°Your Highness, I assure you that the amount of force I¡¯ve put into the massage was as perfect as it could be,¡± Dane replied with a strand of his own before adding, ¡°I haven¡¯t learned how to be a masseuse without having the talent for it, you know.¡±

    Hearing that it was not Dane¡¯s fault, the Ninth Prince went ahead and looked back at Valentia before asking, ¡°What seems to be the matter?¡±

    In response, Valentia let out a light sigh as she recalled a few thoughts in her mind. Lightly scratching his head with a slightly apologetic expression, she then asked Vanadir, ¡°Do you know the current state of the Third Prince¡¯s team?¡±

    ¡°Of course I do,¡± Vanadir nodded as he replied. ¡°He¡¯s the only prince out of all the other princes to have a full team of 10 members. What does it have to do with your problem?¡±

    ¡°Well¡­¡± Valentia pondered on how she was going to word out her question to Vanadir as her eyes gazed to and fro. ¡°Do you know who the members of his team are?¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t tell me¡­¡± At this point, Vanadir finally understood what she was trying to say, letting out a sigh of disappointment before asking, ¡°You¡¯re already a part of the Third Prince¡¯s team?¡±

    Valentia remained silent as a reply to his question, prompting the Ninth Prince to think that her silence was a yes to him. Letting out another sigh of disappointment, he stood up from his seat before telling Dane that they were going to leave. The two then made their way towards the door before looking back at Valentia and saying, ¡°Well, then. It was nice meeting you, I guess. I hope the Third Prince is treating you we¡ª¡±

    But before he could finish his sentence, Valentia hurriedly stood up as he dashed towards Vanadir with an incredibly guilty expression as she shouted, ¡°It¡¯s a joke! It¡¯s a joke! Don¡¯t leave! It¡¯s just a joke!¡±

    ¡°¡­¡± Vanadir was left at a loss for words after hearing what she said. The same went for Dane, thinking that if it was a joke, then it wasn¡¯t really funny at all. It took Vanadir a few deep breaths to finallye back to his senses as a serious expression appeared on his face. He then asked her to make sure, ¡°Are you joking about the fact that you¡¯re a part of the Third Prince¡¯s team? Or are you saying that to bring down my hopes even further?¡±

    ¡°The first one! The first one!¡± Valentia hastily responded, signs of tears slowly welling up in her eyes. At this moment, she felt incredibly bad for what she had done, prompting her to bow down in front of him as she said, ¡°I¡¯m sorry!¡±

    Scratching his head in response, Vanadir looked at the current Valentia and let out a long sigh, which was filled with annoyance, as well as relief. While Valentia remained bowing down, he then told her, ¡°You do know that this event would dictate the future of the Seraph Kingdom, right? Do you think it¡¯s fine for you to joke about a matter like this?¡±

    ¡°I know but¡­¡± Valentia returned to her original posture as she answered in a slightly apologetic tone before continuing, ¡°I just want to ease up the tension you were feeling¡­¡±

    In response, Vanadir let out yet another sigh, the expression on his face returning to that of normality. Noticing that Valentia was about to cry, the Ninth Prince went ahead and ced his hand on her shoulder as he said, ¡°Don¡¯t cry over something like that. It¡¯s fine, as long as you admit to your mistakes.¡±

    He then let out a chortle as he continued, ¡°Also, you¡¯re already 25 for heaven¡¯s sake. If people saw the Healing Witch of the West crying in front of a prince, they would think that something special is going between the two of us.¡±

    Hearing those words, Valentia hurriedly wiped the tears that were about to drip from her face as she took in a few deep breaths to calm herself down. A few secondster, the expression she had was now back to normal as a light smile suffused from her face. After that, she went ahead and said, ¡°I¡¯ll join your team. You don¡¯t have to worry about anything at all.¡±

    She then pondered over something before adding, ¡°Then again, my words from before were half-true. Although it isn¡¯t me that joined the Third Prince¡¯s team, someone else from our family did join him.¡±

    ¡°Well, we¡¯ll get to that when the timees,¡± Vanadir pondered over her words for a bit before responding to it with a light smile. Since one of the reasons why they came to the Arcenon household was now done, Vanadir went ahead and opened the door with Dane behind him, only for him to stop as he felt Valentia tugging on his clothes.

    Turning around, the Ninth Prince noticed that a light red blush suffused on her face as she looked down at the floor for a bit. In response to her tugging, Vanadir asked, ¡°What¡¯s wrong? Do you have anything else to ask me?¡±

    ¡°I was just wondering if¡­you know, there was a cute girl in your team other than me?¡± Valentia responded to his question with a question of her own, asking in a slightly bashful manner. Vanadir and Dane looked at each other for a bit in response to her question, which was soon followed with light smiles appearing on their faces.

    The Ninth Prince then went ahead and looked back at Valentia before nodding, saying, ¡°Indeed, we do. Do you want to meet with her right now?¡±

    In an instant, Valentia¡¯s slightly shy expression had now returned to normal as an ecstatic aura radiated from her. In a cheerful tone, she asked him, ¡°Can I?¡±

    ¡°Sure,¡± Vanadir replied with a light chuckle, only to remember that he had another thing to do in this household before heading back. With that in mind, he then added, ¡°Though it would have to wait for a bit. I still have something to do in this ce.¡±

    ¡°Oh?¡± Valentia uttered as she raised her eyebrows. She then asked, ¡°And what would that be? If you need help, I¡¯d be d to help out.¡±

    ¡°No need for help,¡± Vanadir said as multiple nostalgic memories surfaced in his mind. Gazing at the corridor outside the meeting room, he then continued, ¡°It doesn¡¯t involve fighting at well.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m just going to say hello to my mother, that¡¯s all.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s been a while since I¡¯ve met her anyway.¡±

    ¡°I wonder how she¡¯s doing?¡±

    ¡ª¡ª¨C

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 Chapter 282: Preparing for the Tribulation

    Chapter 282: Preparing for the Tribtion

    After pouring all of his emotions to Aurus, who was still in the process of evolution, Argentum could not help but let out a sigh of relief as he felt that his body had be lighter. Soon after, he let out a slightly boisterousugh as he asked himself, ¡°I wonder if Aurus would remember me saying this to him?¡±

    With that, he then made his way towards the exit, only to open it and find out that the six were near the entrance of the room. Sensing their current auras, which were mostly that of curiosity, Argentum had a hunch as to what the six were doing, though he did not reveal that he knew outright. He focused his sense of vision on the six of them and asked, ¡°What are you guys doing near the entrance?¡±

    Whoosh!

    Without hesitation, the six went ahead and distanced themselves from the entrance before looking at each other with their senses of vision. Not long after, the six simultaneously let out awkward chuckles as Fenrir said, ¡°Oh, nothing at all, Master. We were just passing by the door. We just wanted to make sure that the masters are safe, you know?¡±

    ¡°Is that so?¡± Argentum replied with a question of his own, thinking that Fenrir¡¯s answer could use some work if he wanted to lie better. Letting out a light chuckle, he added, ¡°If that¡¯s the case, then why were you six awfully close to the entrance?¡±

    ¡°So we could sense the aura of the two masters, yeah,¡± Terrence was the one who responded this time, letting out a light yet still awkward chuckle as he responded to his master¡¯s question. The others continued to let out awkward chuckles, which gradually died down as they felt that Argentum already knew what they were doing by the door.

    Seeing that the six of them had finally gone silent as they radiated auras of slight guilt, Argentum went ahead and let out augh of his own as he looked at them and said, ¡°I don¡¯t mind you guys eavesdropping this time. But if you do it one more time¡­¡±

    Whoosh!

    In an instant, an aura filled with killing intent, far greater than what Aurus could exude, soon surrounded Argentum as he continued, ¡°I won¡¯t let you get away that easily, okay?¡±

    ¡°Yes, Master!¡± the six hastily replied in fear of being punished by the clone of their master. Although they knew very well that their master wouldn¡¯t do such a thing, they could not say the same with the clone as they did not know what he had gone through. With the six being so obedient, Argentum could not help but let out a sigh of relief as he went out of the room Aurus was in and told them, ¡°Go ahead and continue protecting your master.¡±

    In response to his statement, Charisa could not help but ask, ¡°What are you going to do, Master?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m just going to head to another part of the alliance for a while, that¡¯s all,¡± Argentum said in response to her question before pondering over something for a bit. Thinking that there was no harm in saying it, he then continued, ¡°Once I¡¯m done with what I have to do, I¡¯ll be staying in the room beside your master. Are you guys fine with that?¡±

    The six looked at each other for a bit after hearing Argentum¡¯s question, sending a few strands of energy to one another soon after. Eventually, the six of them radiated an aura of cheerfulness as they simultaneously replied, ¡°Of course we are!¡±

    ¡°Then, I¡¯m d,¡± Argentum said before chortling in response to their words. After that, he then bade farewell to the six in the meantime, leisurely making his way out of the Tower of Seclusion as his movement speed boosting buffs had now run out. Of course, his two status boosting skills were still active, allowing him to arrive at the entrance of the tower in less than five minutes.

    After arriving at the entrance of the tower, he then went ahead and utilized his enhanced vision to find where Herellia was. Unfortunately for him, even after utilizing his enhanced vision to its fullest extent, he could not find any trace of Herellia at all, prompting him to ask himself, ¡°If I were Herellia, where would I be?¡±

    With that in mind, he then went ahead and rummaged through Aurus¡¯s memories regarding theyout of the alliance¡¯s small ecosystem. It took him a couple of minutes to narrow down the number of ces Herellia could be to 3. Unfortunately for him, these ces were quite far away from her, making him let out a sigh as he muttered to himself, ¡°If only I had teleportation like my original body¡­¡±

    ¡°But I don¡¯t, so I¡¯ll just have to it the old-fashioned way,¡± he added afterward before activating all of the movement speed boosting spells he had in his arsenal. From [Zephyr Burst] to [Zephyr Magna eliaris], every spell was activated, allowing his speed to return to the level it was when ran from the Grand Blue Inheritance to where he was right now.

    ¡°It¡¯s time to do a nket search!¡± he shouted to psych himself up before going ahead and channeling all of the energy inside his body towards his legs. In less than an instant, a great distance was already covered by Argentum. In tandem with enhanced vision, it would surely not take long for him to find out where Herellia currently was.

    ¡­

    In another part of the small ecosystem, Herellia and Horell were conversing with one another, with Horell letting out an aura of immense shock as he could not believe what he had just heard.

    ¡°You¡¯re telling me¡­that I was basically fighting against Aurus?!¡± Horell said out of sheer shock. In his mind, he truly thought that Argentum was an intruder wanting to break the peace of the alliance, thus he decided that the best way to resolve this problem would be to fight against him. But to think that Argentum was actually Aurus¡¯s clone¡­

    With that in mind, Horell could not help but radiate an aura of immense guilt. He then focused his vision on Herellia and asked her, ¡°Do you think he¡¯ll bear a grudge for what I¡¯ve done?¡±

    ¡°Who knows?¡± Herellia replied to his question in an instant, her tone being that of uncertainty. She then added, ¡°We¡¯re familiar with Aurus¡¯s personality, so we know how he would react. But in Argentum¡¯s case, although he¡¯s Aurus¡¯s clone, we¡¯re not sure if his personality would also be the same as Aurus.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯d just go with the safe route and apologize to him once he appears,¡± Herellia continued, to which Horell could not help but agree with as he replied, ¡°Yeah, once he appears, I¡¯ll make sure to apologize to him in an insta¡ª¡±

    Rustle¡­rustle¡­whoosh!

    As if the heavens above were answering Horell¡¯s prayers, the two of them heard some loud rustling, only for the silhouette of Argentum to appear in front of the two not long after. Just as they thought that Argentum was about to stop where they were, he continued with his dashing, going past the two as they were left at a loss for words at the sudden urrence.

    ¡°Eh?¡± the two of them simultaneously uttered as they looked at each other with auras of confusion, wondering if what they saw was real or not. Fortunately for them, it was indeed real as Argentum¡¯s voice resounded not long after, saying, ¡°Ah. I¡¯ve gone past them.¡±

    Rustle¡­rustle¡­

    After a few more seconds, Argentum had finally arrived in front of the two, albeit the aura surrounding him was that of slight embarrassment as he knew that they were looking at him in a slightly confused manner. Letting out an awkward chuckle to relieve the atmosphere in the surroundings, he then greeted the two as he said, ¡°Uh¡­let¡¯s forget that that happened.¡±

    ¡°Sure,¡± Herellia concisely said in response to his words, eliciting a light nod from Argentum. On the other hand, Horell dashed towards Argentum before going ahead and hugging one of his legs, surprising thetter.

    ¡°What are you doing, Horell?¡± Argentum could not help but ask as he found the current situation to be weird. In response, Horell said in a pleading tone, ¡°Argentum, please forgive me for what I¡¯ve done earlier! I didn¡¯t know you were a clone of Aurus! If you told me that from the start, then I would have let you in!¡±

    ¡°Well¡­¡± Listening to Horell¡¯s pleas, Argentum pondered over what he should say. He then thought to himself, ¡®If I think about it for a bit longer, I¡¯m pretty sure that the oue would stay the same if I told him I was Aurus¡¯s clone.¡¯

    In the end, he thought that there was no point mulling over what had happened in the past and said, ¡°Alright, alright. I forgive you, so can you please stop hugging my leg?¡±

    Hearing that he was forgiven, Horell hastily let go of Argentum¡¯s leg as he let out a light giggle since he felt that there was no more guilt weighing on his body. After that, Herellia focused her sense of vision towards Argentum and asked him, ¡°So, what made youe here?¡±

    ¡°You told me a while ago that you had something to say to me,¡± Argentum responded in a solemn tone. In response, Herellia pondered over Argentum¡¯s words before finally recalling what she wanted to say to him a while ago. She then went ahead and told him, ¡°I finally remember. I wanted to ask you if you could help me out on my Existence Tribtion.¡±

    ¡°Eh?¡± Argentum could not help but utter after hearing such a request out of the blue. He then went ahead and rummaged through Aurus¡¯s memories before he underwent his evolution process, finally recalling that Herellia requested Aurus to help him out with her Existence Tribtion, as well as obtain an All-seeing Comprehension Leaf from the Area 52 Inheritance. With that in mind, he pondered over his choice of words for a bit before asking her, ¡°Is it because Aurus is still in the process of evolution?¡±

    ¡°Well, that¡¯s one part of the reason why,¡± Herellia responded to his question before adding, ¡°The other reason why I wanted you to help me out in my Existence Tribtion is because of your existence level.¡±

    ¡°Makes sense,¡± Argentum replied as he shrugged his shoulders in slight nonchnce. He then went ahead and asked her, ¡°When are you going to undergo your Existence Tribtion?¡±

    ¡°To be honest, any time is a good time for me to undergo,¡± Herellia said, telling Argentum that she did not care about the time that much. She then added, ¡°Though, I should make sure that I should undergo the tribtion as far away from the alliance as possible.¡±

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡± Listening to her words, Argentum mulled over it for a bit before asking, ¡°Are you going to do it right now?¡±

    ¡°Well¡­I don¡¯t see why not,¡± Herellia said in response to his words with slight nonchnce. But just as she was about to head towards the main hall of the alliance with Horell and Argentum in tow, Argentum stopped her from doing so as he said, ¡°I think we should prepare a bit more for your tribtion. Who knows what trials are in store for your tribtion?¡±

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡± Herellia pondered over Argentum¡¯s words for a bit and thought that it would be better if she did prepare for the tribtion. With more preparations, the chance of her seeding in her tribtion would be higher, which was a good thing. She thought about what she could prepare to make sure that her chances of seeding the tribtion would be higher, but after a while, she realized that she did not know anything about it other than the fact that passing through it would allow her to evolve to a greater form.

    With that in mind, she went ahead and looked at Argentum and asked him, ¡°What do you think would be good things to do in preparation for the tribtion?¡±

    ¡°Well¡­¡± Argentum went ahead and recalled all of Aurus¡¯s memories regarding Existence Tribtions beforepiling and organizing them into a list. He then took in a deep breath before responding, ¡°First off, when preparing for an Existence Tribtion, one must have helpers that have decently highbat power.¡±

    ¡°In that case, the first thing to do when preparing for your tribtion has something to do with Horell,¡± he said not long after, pointing towards a confused Horell after that. In response to his words, Horell could not help but ask, ¡°What are you trying to imply? Are you saying that I¡¯m too weak to be a helper?¡±

    ¡°Pretty much,¡± Argentum said without hesitation, making Horell feel bad for himself as a dejected aura radiated from him. But then, after hearing Argentum¡¯s next words, Horell could not help but be invigorated with energy.

    ¡°Fortunately, there¡¯s a way to increase your power pretty easily,¡± Argentum said not long after, prompting Horell to ask him, ¡°And what would that be?¡±

    In response, Argentum let out a yful chuckle as he said, ¡°Two words.¡±

    ¡°Power Baptism.¡±

    ¡ª¡ª¨C

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 Chapter 283: Decadence of the Five Hyacinths

    Chapter 283: Decadence of the Five Hyacinths

    ¡°Power Baptism?¡± Horell repeated Argentum¡¯s words a few times, only for an aura of contemtion to radiate from him. Not long after, this aura was soon reced with confusion as he asked Argentum, ¡°What¡¯s a Power Baptism?¡±

    Hearing Horell¡¯s question, Argentum could not help but look at him as if he was looking at the only person he knew that knew everything, but in actuality, only knew superficial things about those topics. With a slight aura of disbelief radiating from him, he went ahead and asked him, ¡°Do you really not know what a Power Baptism is?¡±

    In response, Horell went ahead and rummaged through the memories in his mind, wondering if he did know what it was. After a while, he focused his sense of vision towards Herellia before sending a few strands of energy between them back and forth. Eventually, the passing of energy strands between the two of them was finally over, prompting him to look back at Argentum before shaking his head left and right as he replied, ¡°Unfortunately, I do not.¡±

    ¡°Are you serious¡­¡± Argentum muttered as a response to Horell¡¯s statement, only for him to let out a soft sigh not long after as hepiled and organized the knowledge he had regarding Power Baptisms in his mind. He then pondered on how he was going to start exining what a Power Baptism was, with a thought rted to it surfacing in his mind not long after as an aura of enlightenment surrounded him.

    Imitating the sound of one clearing their throat to attract Horell¡¯s attention, and unintentionally, Herellia¡¯s, Argentum looked back at Horell and said in a solemn yet serious voice, ¡°Before I go ahead and exin what a Power Baptism is, I assume you know what an Existence Tribtion is.¡±

    Horell could not help but lightly nod as he heard Argentum mentioned the term ¡®Existence Tribtion¡¯. Taking in a deep breath, he then went ahead and exined what he knew regarding Existence Tribtions as he replied, ¡°I indeed know what an Existence Tribtion is. It¡¯s the trial an Inanimate has to undertake if they want to reach a higher level of existence. In other words, it¡¯s the trial I underwent to obtain my current form.¡±

    Argentum subconsciously nodded at his words since what he said could be considered as the most basic exnation of what an Existence Tribtion is. Telling Horell that his answer was exactly what an Existence Tribtion was, he then continued with his exnation on what a Power Baptism is, saying, ¡°If I were to simplify it as much as possible, think of Power Baptisms as just weaker Existence Tribtions for Pseudo-Animates.¡±

    ¡°Weaker Existence Tribtions?¡± Herellia could not help but chime in as she heard those words. ¡°What do you mean by that?¡±

    ¡°Well¡­¡± Argentum pondered over what he was going to say, eventually finding the right string of words as he replied, ¡°It is what it is, to be honest. An Existence Tribtion has multiple trials in order for one to eventually reach a higher level of existence, while a Power Baptism only has one trial in order for one to reach a higher level of power.¡±

    ¡°Speaking of which, could you two remind me how you two got to know Existence Tribtions again?¡± he said not long after as he truly forgot how they came to know of it. Although he could go ahead and rummage through Aurus¡¯s memories once more to find the answer himself, it was far easier to just ask them one more time.

    Unexpectedly, Herellia was the one who answered his question as she responded, ¡°If I remember correctly, Horell and I were traversing through an Animate town and came across Existence Tribtions in one of their books.¡±

    She then went ahead and looked at Horell, who nodded as if to agree with her statement as he added, ¡°I¡¯m pretty sure it was night time when we went there so we read all of the content in that book. Surprisingly, it tackled Existence Tribtions in great detail. I still wonder to this day as to which Animate wrote that.¡±

    ¡°I see,¡± Argentum said as he nodded in understanding. From their answers, he had inferred that the reason why the two knew about Existence Tribtions, but not of Power Baptisms was because they had entered a town for Animates. As Existence Tribtions allowed the emergence of Animates, Power Baptisms were left hidden as they were only a method to increase power for Pseudo-Animates and not for Animates.

    ¡®Now that I think about it¡­¡¯ Just as he thought that he had figured everything out as to why they were clueless to Power Baptisms, Argentum found it somewhat odd that a book containing information regarding Existence Tribtions would be found inside a library for Animates. He then thought to himself, ¡®Do Animates even need information regarding Existence Tribtions? I¡¯m pretty sure only Inanimates would benefit from such information.¡¯

    ¡°Weird. Incredibly weird,¡± Argentum muttered to himself as he made a mental note that if he turned into an Animate, he would find the book Herellia and Horell read to find out about Existence Tribtions. At this point, he realized that he had gone off-track in his mind, hastily returning to his train of thought as he looked at Horell before imitating the sound of one clearing their throat.

    With their attention now back at him, he finished his exnation as he told him, ¡°In short, Power Baptisms are just small Existence Tribtions for Pseudo-Animates. One would need to umte a ton of energy inside their body before triggering a Power Baptism. Once one sessfully clears a Power Baptism, their power would instantly increase by a factor of 10.¡±

    ¡°That much?!¡± Horell could not help but exim as he thought that a single Power Baptism would only increase his power by a factor of 2 or 3 at most. Never in his mind did he think that such a thing would boost his power by that much. But just as he thought that Power Baptisms were amazing, he could not help but recall the Power Baptism he underwent to transform into a Pseudo-Animate, remembering the amount of power that coursed through his body just as he finished the trials.

    ¡®I guess that¡¯s why Argentum calls them small Existence Tribtions,¡¯ he thought to himself soon after before asking Argentum, ¡°How does one umte energy to trigger a Power Baptism?¡±

    ¡°Uh¡­¡± Hearing Horell¡¯s question, it was then that Argentum realized that he relied on the system too much when it came to Power Baptisms. From the process of obtaining the energy needed to undergo one to the initiation of a Power Baptism, most of it was all thanks to the Transcending Existence System he had. And it seemed that he was going to rely on it one more time.

    ¡°System, how does one normally umte energy in order to start a Power Baptism?¡± Argentum hastily asked inside his mind, hoping to get an answer from the system in less than instant.

    Ding!

    Fortunately, the system had heard his pleas, answering his question in less than an instant as a feminine-sounding voice resounded in his mind, saying, ¡°For a being that does not have the system, the usual way for them to umte energy for Power Baptisms is through diverting part of the energy they consume in their day-to-day lives towards a body part of their choosing. Once a part is filled to the brim with energy, it would naturally explode, thus triggering a Power Baptism.¡±

    ¡°By explode, do you mean the body part would explode, or is the energy inside that part the one that¡¯s going to explode?¡± Argentum could not help but ask a follow-up question as he imagined the former, leading to a gruesome sight in his imagination.

    In less than an instant, the system replied, ¡°Only the energy inside the body would explode. If it was the explosion of a body part, it would trigger something else instead.¡±

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡± Argentum mulled over the system¡¯s words for a bit as he digested them, wondering what the system meant in thest part of its statement. Nevertheless, since thest part seemed to not be useful to him, Argentum ced the thought at the back of his head as he looked back at Horell and replied, ¡°In order for one to umte energy for a Power Baptism, one must redirect a great portion of their energy towards a random part on their body. Once the umted energy naturally explodes, then the Power Baptism would begin.¡±

    ¡°I understand,¡± Horell said after he was finished processing Argentum¡¯s words in his mind. Not long after, he then went ahead and circted all of the energy in his body before redirecting it towards his right limb. But just as the redirected energy was about to make its way to the right forearm, Argentum prevented it from happening as he told Horell, ¡°I¡¯d suggest you umte energy outside the alliance. Although a Power Baptism is a smaller and weaker Existence Tribtion, I can tell you without a doubt that it packs a punch.¡±

    As for Herellia, she agreed with Argentum¡¯s words as she said, ¡°What Argentum said. It took an incredibly long time for us to repair the alliance base after what Zelefaire did. Do you really want to repair the alliance base all over again?¡±

    In response, Horell went ahead and disappeared in front of Argentum and Herellia¡¯s field of vision, prompting the two to look around for a bit. Eventually, they were able to find Horell, who had just appeared near the corridor that led to the main hall of the alliance base. The two of them then looked at each other for a bit before going ahead and utilizing all of their movement speed boosting buffs and skills to head over to where Horell was as fast as possible.

    After arriving at where Horell was, the three of them went ahead and moved at the same pace, heading towards a portion of the Tempest Cliff that was at least a few kilometers away from the entrance of the alliance base. Utilizing his enhanced sense of vision, Argentum looked around and checked for things that might interfere with Horell¡¯s Power Baptism, eventually finding out that there were none in the vicinity.

    Letting out an inward sigh of relief, he then went ahead and distanced himself from Horell, but not at a level where it wouldn¡¯t be toote for him to help him out in his Power Baptism. Noticing what Argentum was doing, Herellia decided to do the same, more or less ending up at the same ce where Argentum was.

    After making sure that they were far enough from Horell that they wouldn¡¯t be hit by the trial brought about by the Power Baptism, Argentum focused his sense of vision towards Horell and shouted, ¡°You can start now!¡±

    Nodding in response to Argentum¡¯s shout, Horell went ahead and closed his sense of vision, allowing him to gain increased sensitivity towards the energy circting throughout his body. He then went ahead and allocated most of the energy to head towards his right forearm. In an instant, the energy that headed towards his forearm instantly made it look bigger, as if he had muscles on his right forearm in the first ce.

    Although Horell felt that the energy inside his right forearm was quite dense, it was not at a level that it would explode yet. With that in mind, he willed even more energy, which had recovered to a substantial degree, to head towards his right forearm. With this batch of energy now mixing it with the previous batch of energy, his right forearm now looked like an arm that had undergone extreme hypertrophy. Unfortunately for Horell, he did not feel the energy inside his right forearm exploding yet so he went ahead and waited for a bit more before sending another batch of energy to his right forearm.

    ¡®Please let this be thest one,¡¯ Horell thought to himself as he let the energy circting throughout his body recover to a decently high level before sending most of it towards his right forearm one more time. Fortunately for him, just like what he was hoping for in his mind, after the current batch of energy had mixed in with the previous batches of energy in his right forearm, the energy that had umted inside it had exploded in an instant, allowing a loud and audible sound of an explosion to resound throughout the area. Surprisingly, Horell did not feel any pain from it, even though he was expecting it to hurt a lot.

    Rumble¡­rumble¡­

    A few secondster, dark clouds started to manifest a few thousand meters above Horell¡¯s head, prompting him to look up as he muttered to himself, ¡°Is this the Power Baptism Argentum was talking about?¡±

    With that in mind, he went ahead and looked at Argentum, only for him to see Argentum looking back at him and nodding, indirectly telling that the dark clouds above him constituted the Power Baptism he was going to undertake. Taking in a deep breath, Horell went ahead andposed himself as he did not know what a Power Baptism would have up its sleeve.

    Ding!

    On the other hand, Argentum obtained a notification from the system, prompting him to open it up soon after. After reading through it, he could not help but find it weird as he muttered, ¡°Horell isn¡¯t even apanion made by the system at all, so why is the system doing this?¡±

    ¡°Nevertheless, from the name of the trial, it seems to be easier than mine,¡± he soon added as he let out a light chuckle. ¡°How about I go help him out to make his trial a walk in the park?¡±

    ¡®One of the user¡¯spanions has triggered a Power Baptism!¡±

    ¡®With the heavens adjusting the difficulty of the Power Baptism, the decided trial shall be¡­¡¯

    ¡®The Decadence of the Five Hyacinths!¡¯

    ¡ª¡ª¨C

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 Chapter 284: A Stronger Ally

    Chapter 284: A Stronger Ally

    ¡°Decadence of the Five Hyacinths,¡± Argentum could not help but repeat the name of the trial in a whisper, wondering what kind of trial Horell was about to face. Although the name of the trial gave off the feeling that it was easy, there were multiple meanings and interpretations when it came to names, hence the reason why Argentum was pondering over how the trial would go.

    ¡®With the word ¡®Five¡¯ in the name of the trial, we could at least expect five bolts of lightning,¡¯ he thought to himself as he pondered over it. As an aura of enlightenment surrounded him with that thought currently in his mind, this aura instantly changed to that of uncertainty as he thought, ¡®But then, ¡®Five¡¯ could also be interpreted as five rounds of lightning bolts instead of five individual bolts.¡¯

    ¡®As for ¡®Decadence¡¯, how would that affect the trial?¡¯ he continued to interpret the name of the trial as more and more thoughts surfaced in his mind. ¡®Does the word ¡®Hyacinth¡¯ refer to the color of lightning that Horell is about to face? Or does it refer to the type of lightning that¡¯s going to hit him, just like how the word ¡®Blossoming¡¯ affected the type of lightning that struck me in mine?¡¯

    Eventually, Argentum formted a usible hypothesis in his mind that dictated how Horell¡¯s Power Baptism would go. Of course, he only formted that thought as a reference since Power Baptisms were known for their unpredictability. With that in mind, he could not help but remember how he was hit by a dark blue lightning bolt at the end of his Power Baptism, only for it to turn into a hundred purple lightning bolts.

    ¡°Should I go ahead and buff him up right now?¡± After finishing up with his spections on the specifics of the trial, his train of thought then changed to that of helping Horell out in the terms of buffs. Although he muttered to himself a while ago that he was going to buff Horell up to reduce the rtive difficulty of his trial, he had a feeling that buffing Horell up would instead be detrimental to him once the end of the triales.

    Then again, he was not sure if that truly was the case, only referring what happened to him in his Power Baptism with a ton of buffs enabled. In the end, he decided that the pros outweighed the cons, making a note in his mind that he would buff Horell up before the first round of lightning bolts came.

    Rumble¡­rumble¡­

    At this point, the dark clouds had now congregated, spanning a couple of kilometers in both length and width. A few secondster, red lightning bolts started to manifest within the dark clouds before darting around the clouds. Concurrently, a red light emanated from the dark clouds as well. To Argentum, this was now his preparation period before the bolts of lightning came crashing down on the trial candidate.

    Noticing the red lightning bolts manifesting inside the dark clouds, Horell could not help but look at Argentum and ask, ¡°What are those red lightning bolts doing in those clouds?¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s more or less your trial,¡± Argentum responded without dy. He then continued, ¡°Once the amount of energy contained within them has reached their peak, they will eventuallye down from the clouds to smite you. At that point, you must do your best to defend against the lightning bolt, or dispel the lightning bolt, whichever works best for you.¡±

    ¡°Oh? Is that the case?¡± Horell replied as an aura of understanding radiated from him, which was soon reced with that of ease and slight tion as he soon muttered to himself, ¡°In other words, I could just treat this Power Baptism like my Existence Tribtion, then. Good to know.¡±

    ¡°Hm?¡± With the help of his enhanced senses, Argentum picked up Horell¡¯s whispers, giving him a new perspective on what Existence Tribtions were. In his mind, he thought, ¡®So Existence Tribtions are just harder Power Baptisms? Wait a second¡­I did exin a while ago that Power Baptisms are weaker Existence Tribtions¡­why am I so surprised?¡¯

    ¡®I guess I just feel more at ease thinking that Existence Tribtions are going to be familiar to me,¡¯ he soon thought not long after as he let out a light chuckle. Just as he was about to engross himself in his thoughts once more, Herellia, who was beside him, prompted Argentum to look at the dark clouds as she said, ¡°Hey, Argentum. The lightning in the clouds changed color.¡±

    ¡°Oh?¡± Argentum uttered in response to Herellia¡¯s reminder before taking a look at the dark clouds. Instead of the red lightning bolts from before, the lightning bolts darting through the clouds this time were of a purple hue, which Argentum could not help but think of it as weird. Wondering as to why purple lightning had manifested instead of stopping at the red lightning bolts, Argentum unceremoniouslymanded the system in his mind to identify Horell, bringing up a small holographic screen in his mind not long after that detailed his stats.

    Ding!

    As a notification sound resounded in his mind, Argentum hastily glossed over the screen. A few secondster, a brief aura of confusion surrounded him as he questioned himself in a mutter, ¡°His current stats are around the same level as mine when I first attempted my Power Baptism, so that means the lightning he has to face should be red at most?¡±

    ¡°Why is it purp-¡± Just as he was about to ponder even more on the topic, a thought rted to the question surfaced in his mind, eliciting him to radiate an aura of understanding as Horell¡¯s current case was the same as his in his second attempt. With a slight sigh of relief, he muttered to himself, ¡°It¡¯s got to be his skills. I wonder how powerful his skills are?¡±

    Rumble¡­

    As the sound of thunder resounded throughout the area, the trio could not help but look at the clouds, with each of them having different thoughts racing through their mind. For Horell, the sound of thunder meant that the first bolt of lightning was going to strike down soon, prompting him to use his usual buffs when it came to fighting. As for Herellia, hearing the sound of thunder prompted her to be more vignt over the course of the trial, activating a few buffs of her own just in case she needed to make a move. And for Argentum¡­

    ¡°[Higher Zephyr Magic: Zephyr Burst].¡±

    ¡°¡­¡±

    ¡°¡­¡±

    ¡°[Higher Zephyr Magic: Zephyr Magna eliaris].¡±

    ¡°[Higher Ignis Magic: Ignis Burst].¡±

    ¡°¡­¡±

    ¡°¡­¡±

    ¡°[Higher Ignis Magic: Ignis Fervor Maxima].¡±

    Hearing the sound of thunder resound throughout the area, Argentum went ahead and cast all of the spells that boosted one¡¯s attributes without hesitation, aiming all of the spells towards Horell. In less than an instant, multiple balls of red and green hue, that were of various sizes, soon arrived near Horell before being absorbed by his body.

    Not long after, the aura he was radiating, which was already boosted with his usual buffs, was enhanced even further, making Horell give off the feeling that hisbat power was no less than that of Chonk¡¯s. Sensing this aura, Herellia could not help but be shocked as she focused her vision on Argentum. Surprisingly, the reason why she was shocked was not because of Argentum¡¯s spells, but rather¡­

    ¡°You can actually help those who are taking Power Baptisms before it starts?¡± Herellia could not help but ask as this question surfaced in her mind. In response, Argentum looked at her and responded matter-of-factly, ¡°You can. In fact, you can even help them out while they¡¯re undergoing a trial. I don¡¯t know if the same thing applies for Existence Tribtions though.¡±

    ¡°Hoh¡­¡± Herellia uttered as a response to Argentum¡¯s words, radiating an aura that gave off the feeling that she had be enlightened. Soon after, Herellia then went ahead and muttered a few incantations as multiple red tendrils manifested on the surface of her body. A few secondster, these red tendrils were then fired towards Horell, which was absorbed by his body at the very instant it collided. In less than an instant, the aura radiating from him had taken on a light crimson red tinge, increasing hisbat power a bit more.

    Bzzt¡­crash!

    Unfortunately for Herellia, just as she was about to say Horell that the red tendrils she sent contained the only buff she could give, the first bolt of lightning had finally struck down as the bolts had finally umted enough energy. In response, Horell looked up at the clouds and focused his vision on the purple lightning bolt that was heading his way.

    Not waiting for the lightning bolt to strike him, he extended one of his hands towards the bolts as he soon muttered an incantation. As a decentlyrge magic circle soon manifested a few centimeters in front of his extended palm, a beam of light blue energy was soon fired at the purple lightning bolt, dispersing it in less than an instant. Unsurprisingly, thanks to the multiple buffs on his body, the amount of energy used from the beam to disperse the bolt was minuscule, allowing the beam to traverse even further than expected.

    Seeing the beam continue in its path, Horell could not help but feel invincible from the number of buffs currently on him. Not long after, an intangible form of energy soon spread out through his body, increasing the amount of power he felt coursing throughout his body in an instant. At first, he was not sure where the boost in power came from. Fortunately, it did not take long for him to realize that it came from the bolt of lightning that tried to strike him down.

    At this moment, his confidence was at an all-time high, allowing him to disperse the next two lightning bolts without a problem as more power coursed throughout his body with every lightning bolt he dispersed. On the other hand, Argentum looked at Horell¡¯s approach of dispersing the bolts with great interest, prompting him to mutter to himself in a slightly ted manner, ¡°Taking on an offensive approach instead of defensive one to disperse the bolts. I really like Horell¡¯s style.¡±

    ¡°Though I can¡¯t help but wonder where the ¡®Hyacinth¡¯ part of the trial would pop up,¡± he said not long after, waiting for the fourth bolt of lightning to strike Horell down after finding out that ¡®Five¡¯ meant five individual bolts. As for Herellia, she looked at Horell¡¯s current disy of power with great awe, giving her the feeling that the current Horell in front of him truly gave off the vibe of the Supreme Guardian of the alliance.

    Eventually, after a minute or so, the fourth bolt of lightning went down to strike Horell down. Unexpectedly, instead of going with the usual move of forming a beam to disperse the bolt, Horell could not help but ponder as to what would happen if he let the bolte close to his body. And so, he waited for the bolt toe down, eventually finding out that he was lucky that he dispersed the lightning bolt at the very start.

    At the moment the fourth purple lightning bolt was around halfway to reaching Horell, the purple lightning bolt soon split up into multiple red lightning bolts that took on a spiraling trajectory. Although these bolts were spiraling, if one were to take their time and look at the trajectory of each bolt, they would find out that all of them would still congregate to where Horell was. Being greeted with the sight of multiple red lightning bolts spiraling towards him, he then raised his right hand before shing out with it horizontally as a de of mana was conjured from that movement, dispersing the red lightning bolts in less than an instant.

    Looking at the current scene, Argentum was finally enlightened as to why there was the word ¡®Hyacinth¡¯ in the name of the trial. Just like how there was the word ¡®Blossoming¡¯ in his trial, the lightning bolt that was about to strike Horell down had bloomed like a flower. With that in mind, he could not help but mutter to himself, ¡°Why do our Power Baptisms have the names of flowers in them? Is there a reason for it or something?¡±

    Rumble¡­rumble¡­

    Unfortunately for Argentum, just as he was about to ponder over the reason for the weird naming scheme of Power Baptisms, a sound of thunder far louder than before resounded throughout the area, prompting him to look at the dark clouds. At the very instant he did, a brief aura of shock radiated from him, which was soon reced with understanding as he let out a sigh and muttered, ¡°I guess my hunch was correct. Increasing one¡¯s power through the use of skills, as long as there¡¯s a qualitative change to it, would definitely make the trial rtively harder.¡±

    In less than an instant, the purple lightning darting through the clouds had changed color, taking on a light blue hue as the intent of destruction emanating from them had undergone a qualitative change. Naturally, the light in the center had taken on a light blue hue as well.

    Noticing the change in color and aura, Horell could not help but look at Argentum, non-verbally asking him as to what was going on. In response, Argentum told him that with his current power, it would be easy for him to disperse the lightning bolt as long as he used a strong move.

    With Argentum¡¯s advice in mind, Horell then looked at the clouds with an aura of determination surrounding him as he inwardly psyched himself up for the bolt that was about toe. Eventually, a light blue lightning bolt went down from the clouds to strike Horell down. But just as he was about to prepare his strongest spell, the light blue bolt instantly split into tens of purple lightning bolts, slightly distracting Horell from preparing.

    Fortunately, Horell was able to bring himself back to what was important, focusing all of his attention on the spell he was preparing as he extended both of his arms towards the oing purple bolts. Just as a few purple lightning bolts were about to hit Horell¡¯s body, the spell he was preparing was now finished, allowing him to conjure an orb that attracted the purple lightning bolts towards it.

    In less than an instant, the tens of lightning bolts were absorbed by the orb Horell conjured, prompting him to raise the orb at a height that he and the others wouldn¡¯t be affected by the aftermath. After making sure that the orb was at an ideal height, he then snapped his fingers as he softly muttered in an imposing tone, ¡°Disperse.¡±

    Fwoosh!

    And just like that, the orb which contained the purple lightning bolts instantly shrunk in size before expanding to a great degree not long after. This process was repeated a few times until the orb seemed to be unable to withstanding the repeated shrinking and expanding, exploding into multiple particles of energy as the purple lightning bolts were dispelled in one fell swoop.

    Whoosh!

    A few secondster, an intangible energy soon enveloped Horell¡¯s energy, allowing the power inside his body, which had gradually increased throughout the trial, to undergo a qualitative change as the aura radiating from him had be more imposing. Concurrently, the dark clouds a few thousand meters over his head had now begun to disperse, prompting Argentum to head towards Horell without hesitation while radiating an aura of happiness.

    ¡°Congrattions, Horell!¡± Argentum said at the very instant he had arrived in front of him. In response, Horell let out a light chuckle as he responded, ¡°Thanks. I think I wouldn¡¯t have sessfully cleared that if it wasn¡¯t for your buffs.¡±

    ¡°No worries, no worries,¡± Argentum said in response to Horell¡¯s words of gratitude as he lightly giggled. He then pondered over something for a bit before telling it to Horell, saying, ¡°Anyways, since your power has increased quite a lot¡­¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t you think it¡¯s time for you to undergo your second Power Baptism?¡±

    ¡°¡­¡±

    ¡°¡­¡±

    ¡°Are you serious?¡±

    ¡ª¡ª¨C

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 Chapter 285: Delegating Actions

    Chapter 285: Delegating Actions

    Sensing the abrupt change in Horell¡¯s aura after saying those words, Argentum could not help but let out a loud chortle. Finding it confusing that Argentum was chortling for no reason, Horell pondered over the reason as to why, eventually concluding that it might be due to what Argentum said earlier, which elicited a shocked response from him.

    Inwardly letting out a sigh of relief after realizing that Argentum¡¯s earlier words were just to make him feel anxious, Horell radiated an aura of slight infuriation as he focused his sense of vision on Argentum and asked him, ¡°Should you really joke about something like that to someone who has just cleared a Power Baptism?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s not like you struggled through that Power Baptism, you know,¡± Argentum concisely replied after Horell was finished asking that question before adding, ¡°Also, shouldn¡¯t you be thanking me for buffing your power up to a level where you could disperse the bolts with one attack? At the very least, someone thankful should do that, right?¡±

    ¡°Eh¡­¡± Feeling the sudden change in Argentum¡¯s personality, Horell was left at a loss for words as he did not know what to say. Scratching his head not long after, Horell decided to follow what Argentum asked from him a while ago, imitating the sound of one clearing their throat to catch his attention before saying, ¡°Alright, you have my deepest gratitude for helping me out, Argentum. There, you happy?¡±

    ¡°Incredibly.¡± Argentum let out a light giggle as a slightly ted aura radiated from him. While he was giving off a cheerful vibe on the outside, on the inside, he could not help but closely examine Horell, utilizing the entirety of his enhanced senses to get a feel as to how strong Horell currently was whenpared to him.

    ¡®Since the buffs I and Herellia have applied on him have already dispersed, now¡¯s a good time to check his basebat power,¡¯ Argentum thought to himself as he continued to banter with Horell, allowing his senses to do their work as he eventually got a rough gauge of how strong Horell was whenpared to his. Once he obtained the result, he could not help but be a bit surprised as he found that Horell¡¯s currentbat power, without all of the buffs, was only slightly inferior whenpared to his.

    Wondering as to why that was the case, Argentum thought that the easiest way to find the answer to that question was tomand the system to show Horell¡¯s stats, which was something he did a while ago to get a feel on how powerful Horell¡¯s trial was going to be.

    Ding!

    As a notification sound resounded throughout his mind just as he was finished inwardlymanding the system, a small holographic screen soon appeared in his mind which detailed Horell¡¯s stats. At first nce, Argentum found the effects of undergoing one Power Baptism as all of the stats now had the x10 multiplier beside them, which he also had. But then, just as he thought that he had answered all of the queries in his mind, a stray thought rted to the current situation soon surfaced, prompting him to look at the original values of Horell¡¯s stats.

    After taking a cursory nce, Argentum could not help but inwardly mutter, ¡°Well, that¡¯s weird. His original stats are somewhat close to mine.¡±

    ________

    [Horell] (Level 10/10)

    Experience: MAX

    Species: Mana Spirit

    Existence Level: Pseudo-Animate

    Grade: Normal

    Power Baptism: 1

    ¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª

    [HP]: 270

    [MP]: 4260/4260

    ¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª

    Stats:

    Vitality ¨C 27 (x10)

    Strength ¨C 22 (x10)

    Defense ¨C 24 (x10)

    Agility ¨C 26 (x10)

    Intelligence ¨C 36 (x10)

    ________

    Mulling over the possible reasons why Horell¡¯s stats were this high, it did not take long for him to remember that Horell had undergone an Existence Tribtion to transform into a Pseudo-Animate, unlike him, who had just regressed to a Pseudo-Animate. Recalling what he knew about Existence Tribtions from Aurus¡¯s memories, he then concluded that a part of Horell¡¯s stats was due to his Inanimate stats, which was at the thousands at the very least, being converted to the stats of a Pseudo-Animate.

    ¡°But even if I consider Horell¡¯s stats as an Inanimate to be pretty high, it still doesn¡¯t add up,¡± Argentum continued to mutter inwardly as he continued to banter with Horell on the outside. Unsurprisingly, Herellia had already arrived at where they were, joining in on their conversation. Eventually, while the three of them were talking about matters regarding the alliance, Argentum finally remembered the only other thing that would boost Horell¡¯s stats, which was his title as a Supreme Guardian.

    ¡®Although I¡¯m quite curious as to how much of a boost bing the Supreme Guardian of an alliance gives, at the very least my curiosity has been satiated,¡¯ he thought to himself as he slowly steered the topic of their conversation back to Horell¡¯s Power Baptism, prompting him to look at Horell as he asked him, ¡°So, after undergoing that Power Baptism, how do you feel?¡±

    ¡°Hm?¡± At first, Horell could not help but be slightly confused as to why Argentum would go back to that topic as they¡¯ve already gone over that a while ago. But then, he thought that Argentum might be upied by something else in his mind as they chatted, thinking that there was no harm repeating the same answer he said before as a slightly gleeful aura radiated from him. He then told him, ¡°I feel great. If I were topare my currentbat power to something, then it would probably be around half of Chonk¡¯s power back in the war.¡±

    ¡°But what if you activated all of your buffs?¡± Argentum asked soon after, prompting Horell to ponder over it as this question was not asked earlier. Fortunately, it did not take long for him to obtain an answer as he looked at Argentum and seriously added, ¡°Then, it might be equivalent to the power you showed a while ago when we were fighting.¡±

    ¡°I see, I see.¡± Argentum nodded in understanding, albeit thinking that Horell¡¯s answer was a bit on the conservative side. In Argentum¡¯s opinion, Horell would definitely show a power far beyond the power he showed when they fought, as long as he activated all of his buffs. Nevertheless, he did not dwell on it too much as he remembered the main reason as to why Horell had done it, which was the Power Baptism.

    ¡°Why¡¯d you ask Horell that question again?¡± Herellia, who was passively listening to their conversation from a while ago, could not help but chime in as she focused her sense of vision towards Argentum. In response, Argentum let out a light chuckle as he waved his hands before saying, ¡°It¡¯s nothing. I just kind of forgot what Horell said a while ago. Just wanted a refresher, you know?¡±

    ¡°Hoh¡­¡± Herellia uttered as a response to Argentum¡¯s answer, outwardly letting out an aura that she was satisfied with his answer. Naturally, she had a different feeling inside, somewhat having the urge to interrogate Argentum as she felt that Argentum was hiding something. But after a while, she decided to leave the matter be as she thought that she shouldn¡¯t be too privy when it came to these things.

    On the other hand, while Argentum looked at Herellia, a thought surfaced in his mind, eliciting him to radiate an aura of realization as he could not help but wonder as to why he did not ask Herellia that question earlier. But then, that moment of contemtion was soon finished as he muttered to himself, ¡°Then again, I¡¯m not really fighting against anything, so there¡¯s no point as to whether I ask her right now or in the future. Of course, I should ask her right now to not disturb in the future.¡±

    The question that Argentum had in mind was rted to the alliance, specifically, the title the members had when they joined the alliance. Although he found out the caveats of not being a part of the alliance a while ago when he tried to find Herellia by nket searching through the whole small ecosystem, only now did he remember that he was not a part of the alliance. In his mind, if he had ess to the Alliance feature of the system, then it would only take him a couple of minutes to arrive at where Herellia was instead of taking more time to find her.

    Imitating the sound of one clearing their throat to attract Herellia¡¯s attention, and unsurprisingly, attract Horell¡¯s attention as well, Argentum focused his sense of vision on Herellia before telling her, ¡°Uh¡­Herellia, I got a question to ask you.¡±

    ¡°What is it?¡± Herellia responded without dy, wondering what made Argentum ask her a question all of a sudden. Fortunately, she found out the reason why not long after, making her mull over the reason why she did not do such a thing earlier.

    ¡°Could you make me a part of the alliance? I¡¯ve just realized that I¡¯m not a part of it at all¡± Argentum replied to her question with a question of his own, letting out an awkward chuckle after that. In response, Herellia told Argentum to wait for a bit as she closed her sense of vision for a bit before muttering out incantations that seemed to be unintelligible to both Horell and Argentum.

    Whoosh!

    A few secondster, a ray of light, which appeared out of nowhere, beamed down on Argentum as the amount of power coursing throughout his body had increased to a decent degree, enhancing the aura Argentum radiated in terms of its pressure.

    Ding!

    ¡®The leader of the Verdant Blossom Branch Alliance has given you the passive skill [Unified Power of the Alliance (Pir-level Variant). Due to the difference in existence level, the effectiveness of the skill has been greatly diminished.¡¯

    ¡®The leader of the Verdant Blossom Branch Alliance has given you the active skills [Alliance Call] and [Judgement].¡¯

    ¡®Due to bing a member of the Verdant Blossom Branch Alliance, you have gained ess to the Alliance feature of the system.¡¯

    With the system notifying him that he had officially be a member of the Verdant Blossom Branch Alliance once more, Argentum could not help but let out a soft sigh of nostalgia as he recalled Aurus¡¯s memories of how he had entered the alliance as an Executive-level member.

    ¡®I wonder if I could obtain Aurus¡¯s titles of Vice Leader and War Commander,¡¯ he thought to himself not long after as he rummaged through Aurus¡¯s memories rted to alliance titles, making him ponder as to how much of a boost those titles would give him, even if their effects were greatly suppressed thanks to the difference in existence levels.

    After Argentum thanked Herellia for making him a Pir-level member of the alliance, Herellia went ahead and asked Argentum, ¡°So¡­what should we do next?¡±

    ¡°By next, do you mean in terms of preparing for your Existence Tribtion?¡± At first, Argentum was slightly oblivious to what was going on in Herellia¡¯s mind. Fortunately, he recalled that they did Horell¡¯s Power Baptism as preparation for Herellia¡¯s Power Baptism. Mulling over what would be the next best move for a short while, Argentum finally answered Herellia¡¯s question in a tone of certainty and solemnity, saying, ¡°Well¡­we head back to the alliance.¡±

    ¡°Head back?¡± Herellia could not help but say in response to Argentum¡¯s answer. After sensing Horell¡¯s aura at the exact moment he was finished with his Power Baptism, she could not help but feel like the chances of her seeding in her Existence Tribtion was greatly improved, as if she felt like the Existence Tribtion was in the bag. But now that she had heard from Argentum that they were going to head back to the alliance instead of moving on with her Existence Tribtion, she could not help but ask as to why Argentum said that.

    Fortunately, Argentum had a rough idea of what was going on in her mind, prompting him to answer, ¡°Let¡¯s say we follow your n of having your Existence Tribtion right now. Sure, your chances of seeding are higher, but what if a change in your Existence Tribtion urs, giving you a trial that¡¯s far beyond our currentbat powers?¡±

    Listening to Argentum¡¯s exnation of what he had in mind, Herellia went silent, thinking that she might have made a hasty decision due to being subconsciously jealous of Argentum and Horell¡¯s currentbat powers. Oblivious to what Herellia was feeling, Argentum continued with his exnation as he said, ¡°We need to prepare a lot more if we want to assure that we cover all possible situations that may ur in the middle of your Existence Tribtion. For now, let¡¯s head back to the alliance as I have a feeling that Horell¡¯s not used to wielding the amount of power he currently has just yet.¡±

    In response to Argentum¡¯s words, Horell lightly nodded, which was not left unnoticed by Herellia. Seeing Horell lightly nodded, Argentum then focused his sense of vision on Horell before saying, ¡°Once you consolidate your control over your current power, go ahead and evolve to the next grade. I think you¡¯ve already reached the highest level of power possible for your current grade.¡±

    Although Horell was curious as to how Argentum knew that he was already at the limit in terms of power, he could not help but recall Herellia¡¯s mysterious methods as well,ing to the conclusion that it would be beneficial for him to follow Argentum¡¯s words. With a nod, he told Argentum, ¡°Alright.¡±

    ¡°What should I do?¡± Herellia soon asked Argentum, to which Argentum pondered over for a bit before responding, ¡°I guess you improve your control over your skills. I can¡¯t really tell you to evolve since you evolving means the Existence Tribtion would be triggered.¡±

    ¡°Got it,¡± Herellia replied to Argentum¡¯s words, only for her to ask Argentum not long after with a tone of slight curiosity, ¡°How about you? What are you going to do?¡±

    ¡°Me?¡± Argentum pointed at himself in response to Herellia¡¯s question before letting out a light chuckle. He then replied, ¡°Well, let¡¯s just say that¡­¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s time for me to do something I¡¯ve dyed for quite a while.¡±

    ¡ª¡ª¨C

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 Chapter 286: The Road to True Element

    Chapter 286: The Road to True Element

    With Argentum giving the two a general idea of what they had to do in order to be more prepared for Herellia¡¯s eventual Existence Tribtion, the three of them went back to the alliance base, stopping just as they arrived at the end of the corridor that led to the small ecosystem, focusing their senses of vision on one another.

    Thinking that an awkward atmosphere would be the eventual result if no one took the initiative to start a conversation, Herellia went ahead and imitated the sound of one clearing their throat as she looked at the other two and asked, ¡°So¡­do we part ways here or¡­?¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s pretty much what we¡¯re going to have to do,¡± Argentum responded to her question without dy as he nodded. He then focused his sense of vision on the two before saying, ¡°As long as you two follow what I said earlier, I have a strong feeling that Herellia¡¯s chances of seeding in her existence tribtion would be incredibly high.¡±

    The two of them showed their affirmation to Argentum¡¯s words in their own ways after he was finished talking. Just as Argentum was about to turn his body to make his way towards the Tower of Seclusion, Horell could not help but ask Argentum a question as a thought lingered in his mind, saying, ¡°Now that I think about it, is there a deadline to this? Or rather, when are we going to meet up? Is it when everyone feels like they¡¯ve made as much progress as they could?¡±

    ¡°Hmm¡­good question,¡± Argentum said as a response to Horell¡¯s question before mulling over it for a bit. In the meantime, Herellia looked at the pondering Argentum for a bit before focusing her sense of vision towards Horell as she replied to his question, saying, ¡°Although that sounds ideal, Horell, if you think about it, we don¡¯t really know when we feel like we¡¯ve made as much progress as we can. We always think we could still squeeze out a bit more improvement from ourselves.¡±

    ¡°What Herellia said.¡± At this point, Argentum was finished mulling over the question as his thoughts resonated with what Herellia was saying. Scratching his head for a bit as he made sure that the amount of time in his mind was more or less perfect, he then looked at the two and told them, ¡°If we don¡¯t set an arbitrary amount of time for us to squeeze out as much potential from our bodies as possible, then Herellia¡¯s existence tribtion would be dyed to an incredibly great extent.¡±

    ¡°Speaking of which, what made you want to attempt an Existence Tribtion again, Herellia?¡± he said not long after, redirecting his statement towards Herellia. Without dy, Herellia replied, ¡°Well, I¡¯ve more or less reached the limit on how much power an X-grade Inanimate could have. Sure, I could still allocate most of my time to improving my skills, but in the long term, the improvement I get from doing so gradually diminishes.¡±

    She then added, ¡°Of course, if it was normal times, I would be fine with staying as an Inanimate for longer as that would allow me to gain more strength once I clear my Existence Tribtion. But after the war with Chonk, I realized that as a leader of the alliance, I should have as much power as possible to make sure that the alliance does not falter in front of enemies.¡±

    ¡°And uh¡­¡± Herellia continued with her exnation, hemming and hawing for a bit before letting out an awkward chuckle. As Argentum briefly wondered why she lightly chuckled, his non-verbal question was soon answered as she said, ¡°I also want to experience the life of an Animate. After reading through the books in that Animate town, I guess I had this subconscious urge to turn into an Animate as soon as possible.¡±

    ¡°Is there anything wrong with that reason?¡± she could not help but ask soon after as the two went silent, only for the two to lightly chuckle in response to her reason as they gave off the feeling that hearing such an answer from Herellia was interesting. After that, Argentum let out an aura of slight glee as he replied, ¡°Not at all. As long as it motivates you to be stronger, any reason is good.¡±

    ¡°Anyways, I¡¯ve decided that we should meet up at this ce after a week,¡± he uttered soon after. He then looked at the two and asked them, ¡°Do you think that time¡¯s too short?¡±

    Herellia and Horell looked at each other for a bit before pondering over the amount of time given to them. After a few seconds or so, the two of them used their own methods of expressing disapproval as they simultaneously replied, ¡°Not at all.¡±

    ¡°Good to hear,¡± Argentum said as he let out a light chuckle. He then went ahead and activated all of his movement speed boosting buffs as he told them, ¡°And with that, best of luck to all of us. May we meet up after a week stronger than ever.¡±

    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!

    And just like that, the three of them went their separate ways as they headed towards certain parts of the alliance¡¯s small ecosystem. Naturally, with what Argentum said to Aurus¡¯s allies before he left, the location he was heading towards was none other than the Tower of Seclusion. Surprisingly, with the help of the newly unlocked Alliance feature, it took him less to arrive at the entrance of the tower, not even taking a breather as he hastily made his way to the same floor where his original body was.

    Just as he had stopped in front of the room beside Aurus¡¯s, the entrance to Aurus¡¯s room was opened, revealing the six, who hade out after sensing Argentum¡¯s aura. With Argentum in front of their fields of vision, all of them radiated auras of tion and glee as they went ahead and asked Argentum as to what he did after leaving the Tower of Seclusion. After thinking about it for a bit, Argentum decided to entertain the six as he had a feeling that they would tell Aurus these important incidents as well, just in case he did not check the shared memories they had.

    And so, the seven of them went ahead and bantered for a while at the corridor on one of the Tower of Seclusion¡¯s floors, with various emotions being radiated by all of them as Argentum narrated how Horell¡¯s Power Baptism went, exaggerating it quite a bit to give his narration a little bit of ir. After that, they went ahead and talked about what they could do while they were waiting for Aurus to wake up, to which Argentum replied that there was nothing wrong with doing nothing. He then told them that he was going to go into seclusion to improve hisbat power only after 30 minutes of nonstop conversation, to which the six wished him the best of luck.

    With words of encouragement in his mind, the six went back to Aurus¡¯s room to wait for their master to awaken while Argentum went into the room beside his original body and closed it soon after, standing at the center of the room before sitting down in a cross-legged manner. He then manipted the energy inside his body as he opened up the upper torso of his body, grabbing the Tome of the Four Elements as he closed the opening on his body.

    He then went ahead andmanded the system in his mind to open up its inventory to retrieve an item from it. A few secondster, a small rift a few decimeters wide appeared somewhat close to the tome, allowing a sk filled with a viscous green fluid to drop beside it with a dull ¡®plonk¡¯ sound. Just as he was about to go ahead and consume the contents within the sk to enhance his perceptivity towards the Wind element, a thought rted to what he was currently doing abruptly surfaced in his mind, prompting him to open up the tome with multiple energy tendrils before doing so.

    Just like before, he used these tendrils to flip through the pages of the tome, eventually stopping at the page where the tome started to exin the intricacies of [Wind Affinity]. He then used the energy tendrils he conjured to absorb the information from these pages, stopping at the page where the tome was just about to start exining the concept of [True Wind Affinity].

    As he organized the information he had just obtained in his mind, he pondered on what level of affinity he should expect after the effects of the Heaven¡¯s Wind Potion had dissipated, instantly ruling out that he would be able to achieve [True Wind Affinity] in just two hours.

    Naturally, he ruled out that he would only achieve the peak level of [Wind Affinity], which was currently named [Blessing of the Ancient Zephyr] in his skill list. Knowing how insanely powerful hisprehension rate, at the very least, he knew that he would achieve [Animate Wind Affinity].

    And so, that¡¯s what he aimed for. He aimed to reach [Animate Wind Affinity] within these two hours, and even hoped that he could go a bit beyond that, just like how his understanding of Water had gone slightly beyond the Animate level ofprehension within two hours.

    Psyching himself up for what he was about to do, he then grabbed the sk and pulled out the stopper as his upper torso opened up, pouring in the contents of the sk into it. As he ced the sk back in his system inventory while he closed up his upper body, a notification sound soon resounded throughout his mind, telling him that the effects of the Heaven¡¯s Wind Potion was now activated.

    Ding!

    ¡®You have ingested the Heaven¡¯s Wind Potion.¡¯

    ¡®Your perception of the Wind element has increased by 200%¡¯

    ¡®Time remaining before buff wears out: 1 hour 59 minutes¡¯

    After briefly reading through the notifications he had received, Argentum then went ahead and closed his sense of vision as he attuned his energy to the Wind energy particles that lingered within the room. Thanks to his already high level of affinity with the wind, which was currently paired up with the perception boost brought about by the Heaven¡¯s Wind Potion, he could not help but feel that his connection with the Wind energy particles was akin to him being embraced by the wind itself. At times, he even felt that he had melded with the surrounding wind, transforming into the embodiment of wind.

    With that kind of feeling coursing throughout his body, Argentum went ahead and increased his affinity with the Wind, referencing the notes he obtained from the Tome of the Four Elements from time to time. Naturally, with his incredibly highprehension rate, it came with no surprise that Argentum¡¯s understanding of the Wind element was improving at a very fast rate, the aura of Wind currently radiating from him now beingpletely different from the aura he radiated before starting this session of improvement.

    And only twenty minutes have passed.

    At around the forty-minute mark, Argentum¡¯s understanding of the Wind element had risen to a new level as the upper portion of his body, which took on the original color of green, had now transformed into a mix of light green and green. If one were to look closely, the movement of the light green and green portions of energy on his upper body, which were thin needles in shape, somewhat imitated the movement of wind in nature. Sometimes it would take on the movement of a calm breeze, at other times, it would take on the movement of a tornado. Nevertheless, all of the movements had something to do with the wind¡­obviously.

    Naturally, his aura had changed as well, the feeling it gave off being akin to when he showed his improvement of understanding over the Water element in front of Felix and the others. Surprisingly, the aura he radiated was rted to the movement of energy in his upper body. Whenever the energy in his upper body moved like the breeze, then anyone inside the area of influence of his aura would feel calm and rxed. If it was a tornado, then his aura would be violent, making anyone inside the area of influence of his aura feel like it was hard to breathe.

    Eventually, the two-hour effect of the Heaven¡¯s Wind Potion had finally dissipated, signaling to Argentum that his session on improving his understanding over the Wind element was over¡­for now, at least. Letting out a sigh of satisfaction and relief, he went ahead and stood up as he grabbed the Tome of the Four Elements and ced it inside his upper torso. He then lightly stretched his body as he sensed the various changes that had urred. After that, he went ahead and conjured a ball of wind, which radiated an intent of destruction far greater than before. Not only that, but the forceing from the ball of wind had significantly increased as well, even though Argentum used the same amount of energy to conjure one.

    Without hesitation, he went ahead and threw the ball towards the wall that faced away from Aurus¡¯s room, only to be left at a loss for words as the ball of wind had dealt more damage than he had expected. In his mind, he thought that the ball of wind would be able to tear a wall open and disappear from there. Never in his mind did he expect that even before the ball of wind was about to collide with the wall, the sheer force of wind emanating from the wind was enough for the wall to tear open, only dissipating after about¡­ten walls had been torn open.

    Scratching his head at the result, he eventually let out a slightly awkward chuckle as he muttered, ¡°Herellia¡¯s definitely going to be mad once she sees this.¡±

    ¡°Should I me this on Aurus?¡± he asked himself not long after before dispelling the thought not long after. Taking in a deep breath of air, he then muttered to himself, ¡°Anyways, I¡¯ve made quite the improvement. Even the weakest Wind-based spell I have now has its destructive power increased by multiple times.¡±

    ¡°And with that out of the way¡­¡±

    ¡°What should I do next?¡±

    ¡ª¡ª¨C

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 Chapter 287: The Higher Boundary

    Chapter 287: The Higher Boundary

    ¡°Should I go ahead and enhance my understanding of the Wind element even further?¡± Argentum muttered to himself in a questioning tone after pondering on what he could do next for a while. Just as he thought that it was the most logical thing to do in this situation, given the current circumstances, a thought rted to the idea surfaced in his mind. With that, he muttered, ¡°I do need more Heaven¡¯s Wind Potions if I want to maintain a high rate of improvement though.¡±

    Although he was more or less fine with the idea of not using the potions, which boosted his perceptivity to incredibly high levels, to improve his rate of improvement when it came to understanding elements, at this point, he was not used to the idea anymore. Thanks to thest two sessions he had with the effects of the Heaven¡¯s Element Potions, he had a feeling that it would take him a long time to achieve the same level of improvement a session boosted with the help of a potion brought.

    ¡°I do have the recipe to concoct the Heaven¡¯s Wind Potion, but I don¡¯t have the materials needed to make one,¡± he said to himself not long after as he recalled the ingredients needed to craft a batch of Heaven¡¯s Wind Potion, which was enough to fill about 10 sks ording to the number of materials used up. He then rummaged through Aurus¡¯s memories to see if he had any spots where he could farm the ingredients for the potion, to which he soon found the locations for half of the ingredients after about ten minutes or so of rummaging.

    Unfortunately, after that, he seemed to be stuck at a dead-end, with only the previous locations he found in Aurus¡¯s memories being the only ces where he could gather specific ingredients for the potion. He then checked the remaining ingredients that did not have a location on the recipe, eventually noticing that all of the ingredients that did not have a location in Aurus¡¯s memories needed one to be at the Animate existence level at the very least.

    ¡°Would Tempest Cliff have those kinds of items?¡± he muttered to himself in contemtion, thinking that it was highly unlikely for a ce where the strongest being was a Rank 1 Animate¡­which had already died. Then again, he could not help but feel at ease as the locations of about half of the ingredients needed to concoct the Heaven¡¯s Wind potion were concentrated within the multiple portions of Tempest Cliff, with only some of the ingredients being located in other ces that only had a Pseudo-Animate ruling the territory.

    After collecting all of that information, Argentum thought that he would be better off not concocting the Heaven¡¯s Wind Potion as it would surely take up the majority of the week he allocated to him and the others. Perhaps, the time he took to collect might evenst longer than a week, which was something he did not want to happen. But just as he was about to truly call it quits, a location soon surfaced in his mind, giving him the thought that finding the remaining ingredients there had a high chance of happening.

    ¡°The Tempest Cliff Inheritance,¡± Argentum muttered the name of the location in his mind as he recalled who had made the inheritance in the first ce. ¡°Kevin is an Animate, so surely he would have resources at the Animate level in the inheritance, right? Naturally, the resources would also be inclined towards the Wind element. I feel like I have a better chance of finding the items there instead of heading out to Animate territories where there is the chance of me being captured.¡±

    Just as he was about to set his mind on entering the inheritance to obtain those items, he then remembered a piece of crucial information, finally making him give up on the idea of enhancing his understanding of the Wind element in the meantime.

    ¡°Ah, right. I don¡¯t have any control over the inheritance,¡± he said to himself with a sigh of slight frustration. Scratching his head for a bit, he then asked himself the same question from before once more, ¡°So, with that out of the equation, what should I do next?¡±

    And just like that, he started thinking out loud unlike before, allowing everything toe out of his mind unfiltered as he weighed the pros and cons of each thought.

    ¡°I could go ahead and grind my skills out throughout the whole week, which would give me a great increase in power for sure, but I need to achieve the element of Lesser Origin as fast as possible. Enhancing my skills can wait, plus they¡¯re already more than enough for my current needs.¡±

    ¡°Hmm¡­I could go ahead and head towards the Inferno ins and enhance my understanding of Fire. I could also go and meet up with Blob while I¡¯m there¡­ah, right. I gave the Heaven¡¯s Fire Potion before I underwent that session to enhance my understanding of Water. Wait a second, I did give Eleanor the recipe to concoct the Heaven¡¯s Fire Potion, but I feel like she hasn¡¯t umted the ingredients yet, knowing her personality.¡±

    ¡°Speaking of Eleanor, I should remind her to increase my control over her inheritance.¡±

    ¡°How about I improve my understanding of the Earth element? I could go ahead and head towards an Earth-based inheritance along the way while improving my affinity with the Ear¡ªah. I almost forgot. I used the Heaven¡¯s Earth Potion to unlock [Earth Affinity] while I was in Felix¡¯s inheritance. With the closest Earth-based area being even farther away than the Azure Shores, I should put the priority of improving my understanding of the Earth element asst.¡±

    He then continued to ramble on as the thoughts flowed out of his mouth. Fortunately, after rambling for about 20 minutes or so, his rambling had finally ceased as a feasible idea surfaced in his mind. Making sure that he had the right idea in mind, he recalled the idea while muttering, ¡°I guess the best option for me would be to focus on enhancing my understanding of the Water element for now. Unlike Eleanor, Felix had a lot more time to understand the recipe, as well as collect the ingredients needed to concoct the Heaven¡¯s Water Potion. At the very least, he would have around 10 sks of the stuff lying around, factoring in the difficulty of concocting the recipe. I guess that¡¯s enough for me to enhance my understanding to the True Water level?¡±

    ¡°Either way, my mind has been set,¡± he soon muttered to himself as an aura of firm determination radiated from him as he activated all of his movement speed boosting buffs without hesitation. Thanks to the boost in effectiveness brought about by enhancing his understanding of the Wind to the Animate level, the speed boost brought about by [Zephyr Burst] and the other spells had increased to a great extent as well. With all of it now activated, he had a feeling that he would crash into the wall if his legs even made the slightest movement.

    Just as he was preparing to head towards the Grand Blue Inheritance, Argentum could not help but think about Horell and Herellia before shrugging his shoulders as he said, ¡°Eh. What don¡¯t they know won¡¯t hurt them. I¡¯ll just make sure to head back to the alliance before the one-week deadline I set is up.¡±

    Whoosh!

    And with that, unbeknownst to Herellia, Horell, and even the six, Argentum went ahead and made his way towards the Grand Blue Inheritance, relying on the map function of the system to make sure that he got there at the shortest time possible¡­and man was it really short. Unlike before, which took him about three days to arrive at the Tempest Cliff from the Grand Blue Inheritance, this time, it only took him around eight hours to arrive at the Azure Shores, with the moon just starting to peek out of the horizon!

    Naturally, he did not stop running once he had arrived at the boundary separating Azure Shores from the wilderness, making his way towards the inner portion of the area. Only when he arrived at the ice castle that housed the Grand Blue Inheritance did he stop as an aura of tion radiated from him while he asked himself with a light chortle, ¡°I wonder how fast I need to run to make it look like I teleported.¡±

    Nevertheless, remembering what he came to the Grand Blue Inheritance for, he ced the thought at the back of his head as he circted the energy inside his body, forming a connection with Felix as the contract they established was awakened.

    ¡°Hm?¡± Not long after, a familiar voice soon resounded in his mind as the voice asked, ¡°Why¡¯d you contact me, Argentum?¡±

    ¡°Can I enter the Grand Blue Inheritance?¡± Argentum responded to his question with a question of his own. Just as Felix was about to ask as to where he was, Argentum was one step ahead of him as he soon replied, ¡°Also, I¡¯m already in front of the castle.¡±

    ¡°¡­¡± Hearing Argentum¡¯sst statement, Felix was left at a loss for words as he did not expect Argentum to appear in front of his inheritance all of a sudden. At most, he thought that Argentum was just letting know that he was on his way to his inheritance, giving him some time to prepare. Nevertheless, since Argentum was a partial owner of the inheritance, he was soon transported to where Felix was while thetter let out a sigh of slight eptance.

    Whoosh!

    A few secondster, Argentum appeared in front of Felix, who was sitting on a chair made out of his energy. After undergoing the usual greetings and pleasantries, Felix took the initiative to steer the topic towards the reason why Argentum was in his inheritance for no apparent reason. Imitating the sound of one clearing their throat, Felix looked at Argentum and asked, ¡°So¡­what brings you to my inheritance?¡±

    While Argentum looked around the room, eventually noticing that the two rooms made for him and Blob a few days ago were still there, he went ahead and replied to Felix¡¯s question with a question of his own, asking, ¡°Have you concocted a Heaven¡¯s Water Potion yet?¡±

    ¡°Uh¡­¡± At first, Felix found it peculiar for Argentum to ask about such a thing, but then remembered that he was the one who gave him the recipe. With that in mind, he nodded and responded, ¡°Yeah. Due to the amount of time that has passed, I¡¯ve only made around 70 or so sks of the stuff.¡±

    Hearing that Felix had already made 70 sks, Argentum could not help but be inwardly shocked as Felix¡¯s speed of creating the potions. Not only that, but he was also curious as to how he could make quite a decent number of batches within a few days. Nevertheless, he kept these thoughts in his mind for now as he told Felix, ¡°Can I grab some of your sks? I want to increase my understanding of the Water element.¡±

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡± Felix pondered over the question for a bit, thinking that there was nothing wrong with Argentum taking some of his sks as he thought of it from the perspective of investing in a being. But from another perspective, he could not help but feel like he was losing out, prompting him to ask Argentum, ¡°What do I get in exchange?¡±

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡± In response, Argentum hemmed and hawed over the question. He thought that it was reasonable for Felix to ask for remuneration as he was the one who collected the ingredients, as well as concocted them. Eventually, he found a suitable item to exchange the sks with, replying to Felix¡¯s question with a tone of slight confidence, ¡°I¡¯ll give you the information you need to achieve the peak Animate level of understanding of the Water element.¡±

    ¡°Deal,¡± Felix said without hesitation as he radiated an aura of expectation and tion. The two of them then went ahead and made the transaction, with Argentum sending the information he had in his mind regarding [Animate Water Affinity]. After that, Argentum asked Felix if he could use the rooms he made a few days ago as a ce where he could improve his understanding of Water silently, to which Felix replied that he had no problem with it.

    Whoosh!

    Soon after, Felix snapped his fingers, opening up a rift that allowed all of the Heaven¡¯s Water Potions he had crafted to drop on the ground. With a light chuckle, Felix looked at Argentum and said, ¡°I might go into seclusion as well, so feel free to use around 80% of the Heaven¡¯s Water Potions I¡¯ve summoned. I think I¡¯ll only use a few of them for now anyway.¡±

    ¡°Thanks,¡± Argentum said in response to Felix¡¯s words before going ahead and conjuring tendrils to grab ten of the potions at once before heading towards the room where he stayed before. This time, he brought out the Tome of the Four Elements in front of him and did not use any tendrils to read through the tome at all. Since he still had the information from the time regarding [Water Affinity] in his mind, he could go ahead and dive into the world of improving his understanding.

    And so, Argentum went ahead and popped a Heaven¡¯s Water Potion into his upper torso, allowing his perception of the Water element to increase. After two hours, he would then pop in another Heaven¡¯s Water Potion, allowing him to continueprehending the intricacies of the Water element.

    Eventually, there came a time when the amount of Heaven¡¯s Water Potions he had on hand was starting to dry out, prompting him to conjure long tendrils that grabbed ten more Heaven¡¯s Water Potions from Felix¡¯s room, allowing him to continue hisprehension session without being distracted that much.

    And just like that, Argentum¡¯s understanding of the Water element improved at a very fast rate. After he was finished consuming the first potion, his understanding of the next level had increased to 40%, a decent improvement from the 25% understanding he had before he left the inheritance. But after that, his rate of improvement gradually slowed down, needing him to consume more and more potions as time passed by.

    By the time Argentum was finished consuming his tenth potion, his understanding of the next level was now at 60%, making him a little bit disappointed at the rate of improvement, but not demotivated to continue with hisprehension spree. As thoughts of giving up surfaced in his mind, he would always think about how it would be far slower for him to achieving this current level of improvement if he did not have the Heaven¡¯s Water Potions on hand, psyching him up to continue improving his understanding of the Water element without caring about the number of potions he consumed.

    Finally, by the time the effect of the 56th potion had worn out, an intrinsic change urred in Argentum¡¯s body, as well as his aura, sending out a shockwave of energy throughout the inheritance that gave off an all-epassing feeling. At times, this feeling would turn cold, it would also turn violent at times, but after sensing the feeling for a while, one would feel like they were enveloped in water. For those who were more perceptive, they would even feel like they have be water itself.

    ¡°I¡¯ve finally done it,¡± Argentum opened his eyes as an aura of immense tion radiated from him. Without hesitation, he stood up and lightly stretched his body as he ced all of the empty sks he had used inside the system inventory. While stretching, he muttered, ¡°5 days and 56 potions. I¡¯ve finally achieved [True Water Affinity].¡±

    Ding!

    Just as he was reveling himself in the pleasure brought about by achieving something like this, a notification sound resounded from his system, prompting him to stop stretching as he opened the notification screen in his mind. After skimming through it for a while, he pondered over something for a bit and soon muttered, ¡°Although it¡¯s a bit detrimental in the short-term, it¡¯s highly understandable.¡±

    ¡°I wonder what kind of effects it would bring in the long run?¡±

    ¡®[Animate Water Affinity] has been upgraded to [True Water Affinity]. Due to the inherent limits brought about by the upgraded skill, [True Water Affinity] has reced [Animate Water Affinity] while regressing down to C-grade Mortal level.¡¯

    ¡®Thanks to [True Water Affinity], [Water Resistance] has been upgraded to [True Water Resistance], regressing down to C-grade Mortal level.¡¯

    ¡®Due to the user understanding more of the Water element thanks to [True Water Affinity], all active Water-based skills and spells have been considered as incredibly inferior, prompting the system to fuse the multiple skills as one with the help of [True Water Affinity].¡¯

    ¡®The active skill [Sage¡¯s Water Magic] has been created. Due to the properties of the skill, the user is now able to create their own Water-based skills and spells, using this skill as a basis. Improving the grade and level of the skill would allow the user to craft moreplex and powerful spells.¡¯

    ¡ª¡ª¨C

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 Chapter 288: Meeting and Warning

    Chapter 288: Meeting and Warning

    XXXX Continent, Telmerann Province, inside the Arcenon family household.

    After recruiting Valentia as a part of his team, Vanadir and the others then went outside of the meeting room they were just in, moving through the various corridors of the household in order to find someone. After a while, they eventually found the person they wanted to find, with the person they found bowing respectfully in front of them as he said, ¡°Ah. I apologize for not staying near your room. May I ask what the esteemed sirs need me for?¡±

    ¡°No need to apologize,¡± the Ninth Prince said in response to the person¡¯s words before answering the man¡¯sst statement. He replied as a nostalgic expression surfaced on his face, ¡°Anyways, Quentin, could you lead me to where my mother is? I haven¡¯t seen her in quite a long time.¡±

    ¡°Ah, the Duchess?¡± Quentin muttered in response as he tried to recall who Vanadir was trying to find. After a few seconds, he then closed his sense of vision for a bit as he muttered a few incantations as a copious amount of energy strands soon spread out from where he was, heading towards the various corridors at great speeds. Around a minuteter, the strands Quentin sent out finally returned to his body, prompting him to open his eyes as he lightly nodded.

    ¡°Let me lead the way, esteemed sirs,¡± Quentin said after that, to which Vanadir lightly nodded as he unhesitatingly followed behind Quentin. On the other hand, Dane could not help but be slightly surprised at the level of prowess Quentin had shown when it came to controlling multiple energy strands. With that in mind, he could not help but ask Vanadir through a strand of energy, ¡°Your Highness, the level of control Quentin has over his energy would be enough for him to be well-known throughout the Arcana Tower. Can you ask him the reason why he hasn¡¯t joined the Arcana Tower?¡±

    ¡°Oh, I can answer that without needing to ask him,¡± Vanadir replied by sending a strand of his own, a light smile stered on his face as he continued to follow Quentin from behind. Looking at Dane, he then replied with another strand of energy, saying, ¡°To be honest, he used to be a part of the Arcana Tower. Not only that, but he also had a considerably high level of authority in the tower.¡±

    ¡°Do you know what level of authority he had?¡± Dane asked in a curious tone, continuing to talk through energy strands. In his mind, he had a feeling that Quentin was at least one level of authority higher than him, but after listening to the Ninth Prince¡¯s response, his respect for Quentin had shot up to an incredibly high level.

    ¡°If I remember correctly, he was a High Executive of the Tower,¡± Vanadir recalled what he knew about Quentin from the past before answering Dane¡¯s question through a strand. Noticing that Dane¡¯s expression had be frozen after hearing that, he could not help but ask, ¡°Hey. Are you alright?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m fine, I¡¯m fine,¡± Dane said with a light yet awkward chuckle in response to Vanadir¡¯s words. After that, he could not help but look at Quentin¡¯s back with a gaze of reverence before looking back at the Ninth Prince and asking in a mutter, ¡°Is it possible for me to ask himter regarding magic?¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t see why not,¡± Vanadir said in response as he lightly giggled. While that was happening, Valentia, who was passively listening to the conversation of the two this whole time, could not help but ask Vanadir, ¡°What were you two talking about in secret?¡±

    ¡°Dane¡¯s just surprised that Quentin used to be a High Executive of the Tower,¡± Vanadir responded to Valentia¡¯s question, to which Valentia gave a gaze of understanding before scratching her head for a bit as she recalled something. A few secondster, she then tapped on Dane¡¯s shoulder, prompting Dane to look at her.

    With a slightly mischievous smile on her face, she told him, ¡°If you¡¯re already surprised that Quentin used to be a High Executive of the Tower, then I should introduce you to the other servants of the family. The strongest one out of them even used to be a Grand Elder of the Tower!¡±

    ¡°¡­¡± Dane was instantly left at a loss for words after hearing Valentia¡¯s statement. He slowly turned his head to look at Vanadir before lightly coughing to catch his attention. With Vanadir now looking at him, he then cautiously asked, ¡°A-are Lady Valentia¡¯s words¡­true?¡±

    ¡°Uh-huh,¡± Vanadir uttered as he lightly nodded before focusing his attention back on the path in front of him, leaving Dane with a dumbfounded expression while Valentiaughed at Dane¡¯s current expression. On the other hand, a light smile crept on Quentin¡¯s face as he listened to the conversation of the three, continuing to lead them to where Vanadir¡¯s mother was.

    ¡­

    ¡°We have arrived,¡± Quentin said as the four of them had arrived in front of a white door with exquisite carvings on it. He then asked the three to step back before lightly knocking on the door as he conversed with the person on the other side. After the person on the other side gave Quentin the green light, he looked at the three who stepped back and lightly bowed before saying, ¡°The Duchess has allowed you three to enter her room.¡±

    Creak¡­

    Soon after, Quentin gradually opened the door as he then said, ¡°Please enter.¡±

    With those parting words, the three of them said words of gratitude to Quentin before entering the room, being greeted by a magnificent sight within. Unlike the somewhat dull meeting room the trio was in a while ago, this room was more exquisite, not only in the materials used to make the room, but its design was exquisite as well.

    Two of the walls hadrge bay windows installed, allowingrge amounts of sunlight to pass through the room. The floor was made out of marble, which had a giant fleur-de-lis chiseled at the center of it as well, embossed with what seemed to be gold. Multiple bookshelves made out of exquisite wood could be seen on one of the walls while a finely crafted hardwood table was positioned opposite the bookshelves, being ced near the bay windows.

    Behind the hardwood table was a woman in herte 30s, wearing a long-sleeved light gray dress that brought out the mature airing from her. Add on the fact that her hair, which was jet-ck like Vanadir¡¯s but had a few light gray strands on the end, was tied into a bun, to anyone that looked at her, they would never think that she was a Duchess, but just a woman that people could rely on.

    At the moment, she was looking at a few documents with important information on them as she lightly sipped on a cup of tea. But after she heard footsteps gradually resonate inside her room, she stopped looking at the documents and ced it on her desk as she turned her head to look at the three with a light smile.

    ¡°To think that we would meet each other under such times,¡± the woman said all of a sudden as she let out a light chuckle. In response, Vanadir looked back at the woman with a light smile before replying, ¡°It truly is surprising. It¡¯s great to see you again, Mother.¡±

    After that, Valentia took a few steps forward before respectfully bowing towards the woman as she lifted her skirt slightly. She then looked at the woman with a gaze of respect before saying, ¡°It is my pleasure to meet you Duchess Iridescia.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s my pleasure to meet you as well, Valentia,¡± the woman said as she lightly nodded in response to Valentia¡¯s greeting. She then looked at the remaining person who has not introduced himself yet, prompting her to say with a light chuckle, ¡°It seems you have a shy one with you, Vanadir.¡±

    Since he was indirectly called, Dane had no choice but to take a few steps forward as well before giving a respectful bow. He then pondered over what he was going to say, making sure that it was as formal as possible. After a few seconds, he then said in the most respectful way he could, ¡°My name is Dane Grossezauber, the advisor of the Ninth Prince. I would like to give my sincerest greetings to¡­uh¡­¡±

    ¡°Iridescia Arcenon,¡± the woman said before standing up from her seat and making her way towards where they were. She then continued with a light giggle, ¡°A Duchess of the Seraph Kingdom.¡±

    ¡°Ah.¡± With the woman introducing herself to Dane, he hastily apologized as he said, ¡°My sincerest apologies for not recognizing you, Duchess Iridescia. I should have read up on this beforeing here.¡±

    ¡°No worries, no worries,¡± Iridescia responded to Dane¡¯s apology with a light chuckle. She then replied, ¡°I¡¯m not someone who wants to go through the usual pleasantries anyway.¡±

    ¡°Anyways, with that being said,¡± she soon said not long after, appearing in front of Vanadir before hugging him tightly. While doing so, she then asked Vanadir, ¡°What¡¯s my handsome son doing in this ce? Shouldn¡¯t he be preparing for the war for the throne?¡±

    ¡°Mother¡­I can¡¯t breathe¡­¡± Vanadir said amidst the hugging, feeling like his internal organs were shifted from the hug. After being released, Vanadir took in a few deep breaths before asking in a slightlyining tone, ¡°Do you really have to do something like that every time, Mother? You do know how hard it is for me to breathe when you hug me like that, right?¡±

    ¡°Can¡¯t your mother hug you after not seeing you for a long time?¡± Iridescia lightly pouted as she responded to her question. She then turned around before imitating the sound of one lightly sobbing. She then said, ¡°I guess my son doesn¡¯t want to see me after all¡­¡±

    ¡°¡­¡± Vanadir could not help but be at a loss for words as he soon let out a long sigh. He then looked at Dane and Valentia for a bit before sending each of them a strand of energy with a message attached. After reading the message contained within that strand of energy, the two of them lightly nodded at Vanadir before silently leaving the room, leaving Vanadir and his mother alone.

    Scratching his head, Vanadir then told her, ¡°We¡¯re the only ones here, mom. You can stop keeping up your facade.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m d you knew what was on my mind,¡± Iridescia let out a yful giggle as she turned to look at her son with a gaze of love and concern. She then asked, ¡°But seriously though, what made youe here to see me?¡±

    ¡°Can¡¯t I juste and meet you without a reason?¡± Vanadir said in response, prompting Iridescia to hug once more, only letting go after Vanadir tapped on her arm three times. Taking in a few deep breaths, Vanadir eventually said what was on his mind, telling her, ¡°After you left the royal pce to head back here, I felt quite lonely from that point onward. The only thing I could do was distract myself with other things.¡±

    ¡°Why¡¯d you leave the pce, mom? Is it because you had a disagreement with dad or something?¡± he asked not long after, to which Iridescia shook her head and said inly, ¡°Not at all. I was just bored with always being in the pce.¡±

    ¡°As expected,¡± Vanadir muttered as he let out a long sigh. He then looked at his mother with a slightly sad gaze as he said, ¡°You could¡¯ve told me the reason why you were leaving, you know?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, I¡¯m sorry,¡± Iridescia said as she let out a soft chuckle. She then went ahead and hugged Vanadir, but this time, filled with love and care. After releasing him from her grasp, she looked at him and asked, ¡°So, what brings you here, Vanadir?¡±

    ¡°I recruited Valentia to be a part of my team in the war for the throne,¡± Vanadir unhesitatingly replied to her question before asking, ¡°Do you think Valentia would be a great fit, mom?¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t see why not,¡± Iridescia said in response to her son¡¯s question, trying to recall what she knew about Valentia. After a while, she told him, ¡°She¡¯s well-versed in fighting, as well as healing. Taking into consideration the other person you brought along with him, it¡¯s turning out to be a solid team as long as you have a strong tank.¡±

    ¡°Speaking of tanks, do you think that person from the Astelia family would be a good fit for my team?¡± Vanadir asked not long after, to which Iridescia tried to recall who Vanadir was talking about. Soon after, she lightly nodded her head before replying, ¡°If it¡¯s that guy, then I¡¯m pretty sure he¡¯ll synergize with your skills quite well. Do you have any other members in your team?¡±

    ¡°I recruited another one, and she¡¯s a student of the mage I brought along with me,¡± Vanadir responded to his mother¡¯s question before letting out a chuckle as he continued, ¡°She¡¯s actually a rare type of mage, able to control two spells at once and even fuse them as one.¡±

    ¡°Oh?¡± Iridescia uttered as she raised her eyebrows, slightly surprised that her son was able to snag such a person like that. With a slightly suspicious gaze, she looked at her son and asked, ¡°Did you¡­perhaps¡­bribe her into joining you or something?¡±

    ¡°Why would I do that, mom?¡± Vanadir said in a way that felt like he was being wronged. He then continued, ¡°I recruited her the normal way, asking her if she wanted to join or not, that¡¯s all.¡±

    ¡°Heh¡­¡± Iridescia uttered as she looked at her son with a mischievous smile on her face. Just as she was about to ask Vanadir more about his team, a thought rted to what they were talking about surfaced in her mind as she looked at her son and said, ¡°Ah, right. I¡¯ve obtained news that your brother Arshe is secretly killing the team members of your other brothers.¡±

    As a slight killing intent radiated from her, she then continued, ¡°I want to remove your brother¡¯s chance of fighting in the war for the throne so badly, but people like me can¡¯t intervene in such matters.¡±

    ¡°Always make sure that your allies don¡¯t die under his schemes, okay?¡±

    ¡ª¡ª¨C

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 Chapter 289: False Visage of the Animate

    Chapter 289: False Visage of the Animate

    ¡°From the description of the skill, I should assume that its prowess is far greater than [Higher Algor Magic],¡± Argentum muttered to himself as he pondered over thest notification he had received for a bit. A few secondster, he let out a short and soft sigh as he added, ¡°Then again, it kinda sucks that I lost the progress of the Water-based skills I grinded for quite some time.¡±

    He then radiated a slightly curious aura as he continued, ¡°I do want to see the limits of this new skill though, but¡­this ce wouldn¡¯t be a good ce to test it out. I should head outside of the inheritance to do that.¡±

    With his mind set, Argentum went ahead and walked out of the room, where he underwent hisprehension session in, and arrived at Felix¡¯s room, only to see arge cauldron situated at the center of the room as multiple empty sks could be seen ced near the cauldron. In the cauldron were multiple materials that seemed to be in the process of dposing and melding with the fluid that coated all of them, which took on a slightly dark blue hue.

    Wondering as to why arge cauldron was in Felix¡¯s room, Argentum looked around the area to find Felix, only to see that Felix hade out of a corridor with a few materials in tow. Felix then went ahead and threw the materials he brought into the cauldron before utilizing his energy to form tendrils that mixed theponents inside the cauldron in a vigorous yet gentle manner. At this moment, Argentum finally realized what was inside the cauldron. It was none other than theponents used to make the Heaven¡¯s Water Potion!

    As Felix was allowing his subconscious to control the tendrils that mixed theponents in the cauldron, he could not help but look around for a bit, eventually noticing that Argentum was looking at him with an aura of awe and surprise. Letting out a light chuckle, Felix greeted Argentum by saying, ¡°Did you make any progress?¡±

    ¡°I sure did,¡± Argentum radiated an aura of slight glee before thanking Felix. ¡°Thanks to the potions you¡¯ve given me ess to, I¡¯ve finally reached the level of understanding beyond peak Animate.¡±

    ¡°Hoh?¡± Making sure that theponents in the cauldron were dissolving smoothly, Felix allocated a bit of his attention towards the cauldron while the majority was focused on Argentum, prompting him to radiate an aura of curiosity as he asked in a tone of slight uncertainty, ¡°How can you be so sure that you¡¯ve gone beyond peak Anima¡ª¡±

    Whoosh!

    Just before Felix was able to finish his question, an aura that seemed to be both iprehensible and mysterious soon surrounded Argentum¡¯s aura, giving Felix the feeling that he was looking at arge body of water that had a collective consciousness. At first, the aura gave off a calm feeling as it took on a semi-corporeal form, allowing Felix to see that quite arge area of the room had been covered in what seemed to be hazy dark blue energy. The dark blue energy bobbed up and down for a while, as if it was a true body of water.

    But then, the bobbing gradually became more intense, forming into waves that seemed to span multiple meters in height. While this was happening, a violent intent radiated from Argentum, giving Felix the feeling that it was all-epassing, as well as inescapable. Surprisingly, this intent was enough to shock Felix that he had to put in a bit more of his attention towards the maniption of the cauldron¡¯sponents.

    Fortunately, only onest change remained in Argentum¡¯s aura, which had the high waves of dark blue energy transformed into whirlpools of various sizes, giving off a feeling that Argentum had great charisma, as well as a mysterious air around him. Nevertheless, something remained constant within those auras, and that was a force that Felix had no grasp of. Although he had no grasp of it, he did know that once this force was activated, a great amount of power would surge forth, allowing Argentum to achieve levels of power unimaginable before.

    Suppressing his aura after he was done showcasing it, Argentum noticed that Felix was radiated an aura of immense shock as his sense of vision was focused on him. Letting out a light chortle as he knew that he had blown Felix¡¯s mind away, Argentum focused his sense of vision towards Felix before asking, ¡°So¡­do you believe me now?¡±

    ¡°Uh-huh,¡± Felix uttered as he slowly nodded, still in disbelief. It was only after a minute did he snap out of his daze and looked at Argentum with a sigh of awe. Recalling the auras Argentum showed just a while ago, Felix could not help but ask him, ¡°Could you tell me how to achieve the level of understanding beyond peak Animate?¡±

    ¡°As long as you give up something of equal value, then sure,¡± Argentum let out a yful giggle, to which Felix could not help butugh as well as he said, ¡°I knew you¡¯d say that.¡±

    ¡°Anyways, I¡¯m surprised that you¡¯re doing something like this with ease,¡± Argentum said not long after, redirecting the topic towards the cauldron. He then asked Felix, ¡°Are you well-versed in concocting potions or something?¡±

    ¡°I concoct potions from time to time. You can call it a hobby,¡± Felix hastily replied as he focused his vision towards the cauldron, radiating an aura of satisfaction as he noticed that theponents were melding quite nicely. ¡°Although it¡¯s not at a level of a professional, I can say with great confidence that my skills are far better than those Animate apprentices.¡±

    ¡®Well, you are a being who has lived for over 25,000 years, so I won¡¯t argue with that,¡¯ Argentum thought to himself as he listened to Felix¡¯sst statement. After that, the two of them soon bantered about their progress in understanding the entirety of the Water element. With Argentum achieving what seems to be the third level of understanding, Felix did not hesitate on asking Argentum questions regarding problems he had encountered while trying to improve his understanding of the element.

    And so, about an hour passed thanks to their banter. At this point, the concoction in the cauldron was now done, taking on the dark blue hue that was in the sk Argentum originally obtained. Naturally, it also radiated an aura of the Water element, making both Felix and Argentum inclined to devour the contents of the cauldron in an instant. Then again, they were beings with consciousness, so they knew how to control themselves, with Argentum helping Felix fill up the sks near the cauldron.

    As they filled up the sks with the viscous blue fluid inside the cauldron, Felix could not help but radiate an aura of gratitude towards Argentum as he said in an awkward tone, ¡°Although I should be the one teaching you about stuff, our roles have been reversed.¡± Letting out an awkward chuckle, he continued, ¡°Then again, my mind is flexible like water, so I don¡¯t mull over things like that.¡±

    ¡°I do feel like the things you have given me as far more valuable than the things I¡¯ve given you,¡± he added soon after. With a solemn and serious tone, he then told Argentum, ¡°If you have any request from me, as long as it¡¯s within my capabilities, I¡¯ll make sure to do my best.¡±

    ¡°Is that so?¡± Argentum radiated an aura that gave off the feeling that his interest was piqued as he continued to fill up the sks with viscous blue fluid. With Felix¡¯s words lingering in his mind, Argentum went silent for a bit, eventually opening his mouth after a minute or so as he recalled the evidence he had obtained back at Verdant Breeze Town.

    Imitating the sound of one clearing their throat to attract Felix¡¯s attention, Argentum then asked him, ¡°Felix, do you have any methods or ideas on how a Pseudo-Animate could transition into an Animate?¡±

    ¡°Hm?¡± Felix uttered as he did not expect such a question toe from Argentum. Nevertheless, it was not outside the realm of his knowledge, prompting him to ponder over it for a bit as he said, ¡°Give me a second to think about it.¡±

    In response, Argentum lightly nodded as the two of them went ahead and continued to fill up the sks in silence. After a few minutes, Argentum and Felix were finally finished filling up the sks with viscous blue fluid, giving them a total of about 25 Heaven¡¯s Water Potions. Coincidentally, Felix was finally finished pondering over the question as he hid the cauldron he used for concocting potions in another ce.

    Conjuring two chairs for the two of them to sit on, Felix faced Argentum as he asked, ¡°Just to make sure that I did not misinterpret your question, are you asking about methods that would allow a Pseudo-Animate to evolve into an Animate, or are you asking about methods that would allow a Pseudo-Animate to disguise as an Animate?¡±

    ¡°Well, now that you say that¡­¡± Argentum hemmed and hawed for a bit before responding, ¡°The first thought I had in mind was the former. But now that you told me about the second choice, I think it would have great use before I transition to the Animate existence level. Do you know methods regarding them?¡±

    ¡°Fortunately, I do,¡± Felix said without hesitation, to which Argentum radiated an aura of glee as he now had a back-up method when the method he had in mind to transition to the Animate existence level would not work. But then, this aura was reced with slight disappointment as Felix continued, ¡°Unfortunately, all of the methods I have in my memory, for the first choice at least, needs one to be at the Grand-grade Pseudo-Animate level.¡±

    ¡°And that¡¯s the method with thexest requirements,¡± Felix added. He then continued, ¡°The other methods I have in mind mostly need you to achieve a grade of Epic or Legendary while sessfully undergoing over 3 Power Baptisms. Of course, the upside to it would be that you would be able to forge a body far stronger than a normal Animate.¡±

    ¡°The only slightly good news I have for you is the second choice I asked about,¡± he said afterward. ¡°To disguise as an Animate, you would only need to be a Magic-grade Pseudo-Animate as the vibe you¡¯re giving off is already close to a normal Animate. For others, they would need to be Grand-grade at the very least.¡±

    Hearing that the second method only needed him to evolve to the next grade, Argentum could not help but radiate an aura of slight glee as he felt that his return to the Animate world was now brought earlier thanks to this method. Trying his luck, he went ahead and asked Felix, ¡°Regarding the second method, is there any way for me to learn of it so I could use it once I evolve to Magic-grade?¡±

    ¡°You want to learn it right now?¡± Felix radiated an aura of contemtion as he weighed the pros and cons of giving Argentum the skill early. Unsurprisingly, it did not take long for him toe to a conclusion as he felt that Argentum would heed his warnings. With that in mind, he shrugged his shoulders as he said, ¡°Well, I don¡¯t see the harm in giving you the skill early.¡±

    Whoosh!

    Soon after, Felix extended his right arm towards Argentum and pointed his index finger at Argentum¡¯s forehead. A light blue energy soon manifested at the tip of the extended finger before shooting out towards Argentum like a beam. In an instant, Argentum¡¯s mind was hit with a sudden influx of information regarding a technique that seemed to be esoteric at first, but was actually intuitive once he organized the information he had obtained.

    Ding!

    ¡®You have obtained the active skill [False Visage of the Animate].¡¯

    As a notification sound resounded in his mind, telling him that he had obtained a new skill, Argentum could not help but radiate an aura of tion as he had the urge to try it out once he left the inheritance. But just as he was about to tell Felix that he was going to leave, a thought rted to what he had just done soon surfaced in his mind, prompting him to try his luck once again.

    ¡°Is it possible for me to learn the first method as well?¡± Argentum asked in a slightly pleading tone, but unfortunately for him, Felix¡¯s decision, in this case, was firm as he shook his head. ¡°It¡¯s better for you to not know of it right now. Just focus on getting stronger.¡±

    ¡°Alright, then,¡± Argentum shrugged his shoulders as he did not feel disappointed in being rejected. After that, he then bade farewell to Felix before leaving the inheritance, appearing just a few meters away from the ice castle. Looking at the castle for a bit, he then went ahead and activated all of his movement speed boosting skills before heading towards a random direction.

    ¡°This seems to be a decent spot,¡± Argentum said to himself a few minutester as his surroundings were now barren. Other than the asional howls of the native beings slightly far away from where he was, it was the perfect ce for him to test his new skill out. Rubbing his hands together as he took in a deep breath, Argentum then went ahead andmanded the system.

    ¡°System, identify [Sage¡¯s Water Magic].¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s time for me to see what it has to offer.¡±

    ¡ª¡ª¨C

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    Hope to see you there!

 Chapter 290: Custom Magic

    Chapter 290: Custom Magic

    Ding!

    As hemanded the system to identify thetest skill that had been given to him, a small holographic screen soon appeared in front of his field of vision. Surprisingly, even though the screen had already appeared in front of him, his mind was upied with another thing, prompting him to put the identification of histest skill aside as he felt that this thought he had was of higher importance.

    ¡°Surely, that holder in ISE would also have something like this, right?¡± Argentum muttered the question that was on his mind, rummaging through Aurus¡¯s memories to find out if his spections were correct. Unfortunately for him, Aurus¡¯s memories did not disclose as to whether the holder of the tome in his previous life had such a skill on hand as the holder did not share that information on the forums at all.

    Letting out a slightly defeated sigh, he cheered himself up by thinking to himself that the other skills would also transform into the same type of skill he currently had¡­which made him let out a longer sigh of defeat as he thought about the amount of effort he put in into grinding all of those skills.

    ¡°I should stop thinking about these kinds of depressive thoughts,¡± Argentum said to himself not long after as he closed his sense of vision for a bit to regain hisposure. After taking in a deep breath, he opened his sense of vision once more to take a nce at the small holographic screen, which he had ignored a while ago, to read the description of [Sage¡¯s Water Magic]. Fortunately, it did not take long for Argentum to read through all of the contents of his screen. Unfortunately, the same could not be said for his current expression as his aura was that of shock and disbelief¡­whichsted for quite a long time.

    It took him a few minutes to snap out of his daze as he could only mutter a single word.

    ¡°Broken¡­¡±

    ________

    [Sage¡¯s Water Magic]

    Grade: Mortal (C)

    Once one transcends the normal understanding and perception of those well-versed in the element of Water, one bes a sage of water that understands and utilizes the intrinsic properties of water to their benefit. One could say that once one bes a sage of water, the element of Water shall now be under their will, allowing them to form it into their desired purpose and shape.

    This skill allows the user to create their own spells and skills that fall under two types: Blessed Water spells and True Water spells. This skill also allows the user to gain ess to destructive Water magic far beyond their current existence level at the cost of arge amount of mana being consumed.

    Note: Due to the difference in the intrinsic level of the skill and the user¡¯s current existence level, the speed at which the user couldprehend the higher levels of the skill has been halved.

    > Innate Spells: 1

    > Blessed Water Spells: 0/1

    > True Water Spells: 0/3

    > All Water-based skills and spells shall have their damage be increased by 100%

    > All Water-based skills and spells shall have their MP cost be reduced by 15%

    ________

    ¡°Truly broken¡­¡± Argentum said a few secondster as he read through the contents of the screen one more time. At this moment, he let out a sigh of awe as he thought up of the multiple possibilities this skill contained from its creation section alone. Of course, he also took note as to how the Water-based skills and spells would have their damage output increased while the cost to conjure them was decreased, making him think that the passive features of the skill were quite simr to that of the me Incarnation skill he got from Eleanor, but without the transformation part.

    After making sure that he fully understood the description of the skill, he then focused his attention on the three types of spells that the skill had to offer to him, which were Innate Spells, Blessed Water Spells, and True Water Spells. He could not help but notice that on thetter two, there was a limit on the number of spells. Although he found it a bit odd that such an overbearing skill would have limits imposed on these kinds of things, it was understandable since the skill was still of a low grade.

    ¡°Then again, would the number of spells I could create increase once I evolve the skill to the next grade?¡± Argentum asked himself as he pondered over the three types of spells a bit more, his aura gradually transforming into that of slight nervousness. Only after telling himself that there was no point thinking about it did he calm down, allowing him tomand the system to bring up the list of Innate Spells he currently had ess to¡­which was just one.

    Ding!

    ________

    Innate Spell List:

    [Niflheim Horizon]

    ________

    It did not take long for the system to respond to hismand as a screen appeared in his mind this time, which was naturally apanied by a notification sound. After the screen had popped up in his mind, he could not help but focus on the name of the spell for a bit as he mulled over it. It was after a minute or so did he stop mulling as an aura of slight confusion covered him while he asked himself, ¡°Why would a spell be named after something from Norse mythology?¡±

    Unfortunately, he did note to a conclusion as to why, prompting him to ce the question at the back of his head with a light sigh as hemanded the system to identify the properties of the spell. Soon, a small holographic screen appeared in front of his field of vision, which he then read through its contents, only to be left radiating an aura that was part in disbelief and part in awe.

    Ding!

    ________

    [Niflheim Horizon]

    MP Cost: 30% of the user¡¯s MP gauge

    Understanding the intrinsic properties of the element of Water, the sage of water now has ess to the realm of water in another ne. This spell allows the user to create a domain that emtes the realm of water from another ne, freezing those that the user considers as his enemies while giving them a debuff that removes all of the defense they had.

    Depending on the amount of MP consumed per cast, the effectiveness of the domain¡¯s effects may vary. The user may opt to cast the spell multiple times to achieve a greater debuffing effect, but the user should always be aware that there¡¯s a chance for the spell to backfire if cast too many times in a short amount of time, casting the freezing and defense-removing effect on the user instead of the enemies.

    > Duration: 10 minutes

    Note: All spells from the [Sage¡¯s Water Magic] skill, may it be crafted or innate, would show twice as much power inside this domain.

    ________

    Taking in a few deep breaths to calm himself from the description of the spell, Argentum could not help but think that instead of bing weaker after the Water-based skills and spells had fused as one to create this current skill, he would be stronger as long as he knew how to utilize the features of the skill well. With an excited tone, he muttered to himself, ¡°In other words¡­as long as I cast this spell before using the other ones, I would basically be a deity of water.¡±

    ¡°At this point, I don¡¯t know who¡¯s more powerful, me or Aurus,¡± he soon said to himself, letting out a light chortle as he unhesitatingly conjured the spell, muttering the necessary incantations before cing both of his hands on the ground before shouting, ¡°[Niflheim Horizon]!¡±

    Fwoosh!

    In an instant, a great area surrounding him was covered in ayer of cyan-colored ice, exuding an aura of coldness far more intense than the aura from before. Not to mention, while standing on top of what seemed to be arge circle of cyan-colored ice, Argentum felt like his connection with the element of Water had be twice as strong, prompting him to think that the note at the end of the spell was, in fact, true.

    He was quite eager to go ahead and test the boost the domain gave to his Water-based skills and spells, but he remembered that he had none, prompting him to let out a slightly disappointed sigh as he opened up the description of [Sage¡¯s Water Magic] again. This time, he focused on thetter two types of spells that the skill offered, wondering what made the Blessed Water spells different from the True Water spells.

    With such a question in mind, he obviously went ahead and asked the system about it. It did not take long for the system to respond to his question as a feminine-sounding voice exined the differences between the two in his mind.

    ¡°Although both types of spells are up to the discretion of the user as to what their purposes are, the base power of the spells are different,¡± the system started to exin.

    ¡°The base power of True Water spells are highly dependent on the skill grade of [Sage¡¯s Water Magic] before creating one. If [Sage¡¯s Water Magic] is of a low grade, then the formed True Water spell, albeit stronger than normal Water-based spells, would be far weaker a True Water spell formed from a high-leveled [Sage¡¯s Water Magic] skill.¡±

    ¡°On the other hand, Blessed Water spells don¡¯t have that kind of limitation. That¡¯s also the reason why they have the word ¡®Blessed¡¯ on them. Whenever [Sage¡¯s Water Magic] levels up, the power of a Blessed Water spell would level up as well. If [Sage¡¯s Water Magic] evolves to a higher grade, then the power of a Blessed Water spell would also evolve to a higher level,¡± the system continued.

    ¡°In fact, there¡¯s a chance for a Blessed Water spell to mutate whenever [Sage¡¯s Water Magic] evolves to a higher grade, allowing it to dish out more power than normally possible,¡± the system added as its final statement, leaving Argentum at a state of intense tion as he now felt that he had be stronger instead of weaker with [Sage¡¯s Water Magic].

    Closing the screens in front of his field of vision, Argentum went ahead andmanded the system that he wanted to create a Blessed Water spell, prompting a slightly intricate screen, which was water-themed in design, to appear in front of his field of vision. On the top portion of the screen, there was a string of words on it that said ¡®Please state the purpose of the spell you want to create¡¯.

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡± Argentum looked at the sentence for a bit and wondered if he had to be incredibly specific on the effect of the spell. It did not take long for Argentum to think of the possibility that he could just go ahead and discard the spell if he was not satisfied with its effects, allowing his frame of mind to be freer when it came to describing the spell.

    ¡°But what kind of spell should my first Blessed Water spell be?¡± Argentum muttered to himself, pondering over the multiple types of skills and spells in his arsenal. He thought over the types of abilities he wascking in, easily concluding that he did not need any strong offensive spells as he still had [Higher Zephyr Magic] and [Higher Ignis Magic] in his arsenal.

    ¡°Speaking of which, I should get the Earth version of these skills,¡± he said to himself as he went off on a slight tangent. After that, he went back to his previous train of thought, remembering a certain type of skill that would allow his other abilities to benefit from it greatly. He knew without a doubt that without this type of skill, he would not be able to unleash the level of power he showed back at the Grand Blue Inheritance when he was taking Felix¡¯s trials.

    Taking in a deep breath beforehand, Argentum went ahead and borated on the purpose of the spell he was creating as he said, ¡°The spell has one purpose, and one purpose only. This purpose is to boost all of my abilities to a higher level, allowing me to fight against beings with a higher level of power than me.¡±

    Swoosh!

    After that, the text on the top portion of the screen had disappeared, being reced with another string of text about ten secondster. This new line of text stated ¡®Would you like to name the spell yourself, or would you like the system to name it instead?¡¯

    Since it was the first Blessed Water spell he would create, Argentum decided to check out the system¡¯s naming capabilities, going ahead with thetter option. A few seconds, the text on the screen was reced once more. This time, it asked Argentum if he was willing to create the spell at the cost of his entire MP gauge. Due to him casting [Niflheim Horizon] a while ago, he had to wait for his MP gauge to return to its maximum capacity before making a decision. Fortunately, it did not take him long toe to a decision after his mana had returned to its peak condition, though that did not mean that he was not a bit hesitant while doing so. Only when he made sure that the area he was in was devoid of beings did he ept the prompt.

    Ding!

    It took around 30 seconds or so for the system to give out a response after consuming all of Argentum¡¯s MP gauge, which was that of a notification sound. Apanying the notification sound was the emergence of a notification screen, allowing Argentum to read up on thetest skill he had created. It only took a single skim of the notification for Argentum to say, ¡°Well then. The system actually has good naming sense.¡±

    ¡®The Blessed Water spell [Aqua Imperium Universalis] has been created.¡¯

    ¡®Would you like to identify its properties?¡¯

    ¡ª¡ª¨C

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 Chapter 291: A Time of Change

    Chapter 291: A Time of Change

    ¡®The Blessed Water spell [Aqua Imperium Universalis] has been created.¡¯

    ¡®Would you like to identify its properties?¡¯

    As the system asked him as to whether or not he wanted to check the new spell¡¯s effects, it came without saying that Argentum was eager to look as to how strong [Sage¡¯s Water Magic] was in its current form when it came to bringing spells to life. Apanied by a notification sound, a small holographic screen, which had the same Water-themed design as the skill¡¯s spell creation module, soon appeared in front of his field of vision with the text at the top portion slightly glowing a faint gold. Looking at it, Argentum could not help but wonder as to whether only Blessed Water spells had this type of design.

    Nevertheless, he hastily ced the thought at the back of his head as he focused his sense of vision towards the description and the effects of the spell he had just created. Surprisingly, it only took a single skim of the whole screen for him to be left with an aura of disbelief, shock, surprise, and all other emotions rted to the previous ones radiating from him at an immense level. Taking around half a minute for the aura radiating from him to return to normal, he then took in a deep breath as he looked at the screen in front of him once more, making sure that the effect he had hastily read through a while ago was, in fact, true.

    Ding!

    ________

    [Aqua Imperium Universalis]

    MP Cost: 100 MP per second

    A Blessed Water spell forged with the knowledge andprehension of [Sage¡¯s Water Magic], it is a spell designed by the user to enhance all of their properties to incredible heights, allowing them to surmount the gap ofbat power when it came to fighting stronger enemies. Due to the property of this spell taking on the Water element, which is considered an all-epassing and flexible element, the purpose of this spell synergizes very well with the element, thus bringing out more of the spell¡¯s potential.

    Of course, since the element of Water is all-epassing, in terms of offensive properties that could be improved by the Fire element, agility-based properties that could be improved by the Wind element, and defensive properties that could be improved by the Earth element, it is stillcking.

    > 50% boost to all stats

    > 50% boost to HP and MP

    > 50% boost to HP and MP recovery rate

    > 50% boost to movement and attack speed

    > 50% boost to skill effectiveness

    > 50% boost to damage

    Note: Whenever [Sage¡¯s Water Magic] evolves to a higher grade, the spell¡¯s boost increases by 25% for each Mortal grade, and 50% for each Transcendent grade.

    ________

    Letting out a sigh of awe from the effects brought about by the spell, Argentum instantly decided that he was not going to discard the spell as its effects were far beyond his previous expectations. Not only that, but the note at the very end of the spell¡¯s description could not help but make him curious about the future, a future where all of his abilities would not just be boosted by 50%, but by an increment far higher than that. At that point, he would more or less be invincible, right?

    ¡°Speaking of which, it seems that the system takes my words literally,¡± Argentum said to himself as he closed the screen soon after, mulling over the words he had said when describing the spell¡¯s purpose. He then continued to mutter, saying, ¡°In this case, every specific detail when ites to describing the spell would be taken into consideration.¡±

    ¡°If that¡¯s true, then if I told the system that I only wanted my stats to be boosted¡­how high would the boost be?¡± he continued to mutter, this thought surfacing in his mind as he thought that the skill was truly flexible when it came to spell creation. Naturally, he had a feeling that the output of such a statement would lead to a spell boosting his stats to an incredibly high degree, but he felt that the current skill would serve him a greater purpose in the long run.

    After getting a better idea as to how the spell creation system of [Sage¡¯s Water Magic] worked, Argentum thought that it was now a good time for him to head back to the Verdant Blossom Branch Alliance. In his mind, he decided that he would spend the remainder of the time before the deadline grinding his skills up, focusing most of the remaining time onto [Sage¡¯s Water Magic]. Of course, he thought of enhancing his understanding of the other elements to the True Element level, but eventually thought that the boost they gave would lose out to normally grinding his skills. Not only that, but he also took into consideration the amount of time it would take for him to achieve such a feat.

    Looking at the current position of the sun, which was at the peak of the sky, Argentum patiently waited for his MP gauge to return to full capacity as [Niflheim Horizon] had reached its time limit while doing so. It was only after about 10 minutes after [Niflheim Horizon] had disappeared did his MP gauge recover back to full, unhesitatingly going ahead and casting all of his movement speed boosting buffs.

    While doing so, he thought about casting [Aqua Imperium Universalis] to get a better feel of it. But then, he recalled the amount of MP it consumed every second, discouraging him from doing so as he plotted the fastest route back to the Verdant Blossom Branch Alliance through the system¡¯s map feature.

    Whoosh!

    And just like that, he was off on a journey to head back to the Verdant Blossom Branch Alliance, but at a slightly slower speed thanks to the loss of a single status boosting spell. Nevertheless, he was still able to traverse the distance from the inheritance to the alliance at a timeparable to before, only taking around 9 hours or so for him to be greeted by the entrance of the alliance once more.

    Taking a short nce at the full moon that mingled with the stars at the sky, Argentum then headed straight back to the Tower of Seclusion. Along the way, he could not help but look at what changes had happened in the alliance while he was gone, noticing that the collective aura of the alliance had be a bit more intense. This made him inwardly let out an aura of slight glee as he knew that the members of the alliance were in the process of improving themselves, just like him.

    Making sure to close the entrance to his room as silent as possible, Argentum let out a sigh of relief before sitting cross-legged at the center of the room as he pondered over his n once more. Taking in a deep breath topose himself, he then started to think out loud as he muttered, ¡°Calcting the remaining time before the deadline, I more or less have around a day to grind all of my skills¡­or rather, a day to grind [Sage¡¯s Water Magic].¡±

    Letting out a light chuckle in the process, he went ahead and psyched himself up before going ahead and closing his sense of vision as he attuned his energy to the somewhat abundant amount of Water energy particles in his room. And just like that, he dedicated all of the remaining time before the deadline towards the greaterprehension of [Sage¡¯s Water Magic].

    At the very first instance he started trying to peer into the intricacies of the skill, he noticed that the rate at which he understood the skill was far slower than the other skills he had grinded up to this point. Wondering as to why, he then remembered the note at the end of the skill, telling him that hisprehension rate of the skill has been halved due to the difference in existence level and understanding.

    Nevertheless, that did not stop him from making great strides inprehending the skill whenpared to others. By the time his grinding session had reached the 5-hour mark, he had achieved the Master level of mastery on the skill, evolving the skill to the next grade. Surprisingly, a few notifications came from the evolution of the skill, informing him that he now had an additional slot to create a Blessed Water spell, as well as three additional slots for True Water spells.

    Without hesitation, he stopped his grinding for a short bit and used the spell creation module of the skill to create another Blessed Water spell, having a feeling that making the spell at the very instant the skill evolved would be the greatest choice. After pondering over what type of Blessed Water spell he needed the most for about a few minutes or so, he decided to create an ultimate art spell which took on the shape of multiple meteors made out of ice. And thus, the spell [Eighty-One Meteors of Frozen Grandeur] had been made, its name courtesy of the system.

    After that, another fifteen hours had passed, with Argentum achieving the Master level of mastery on the skill once more. Evolving the skill to the next level, Argentum now had a basic idea of what he needed to do for the skill, opening up the spell creation module before pondering as to what kind of Blessed Water spell he should create this time.

    At this moment, thoughts about the uing existence tribtion surfaced in his mind, prompting him to think about the buffs he had in his arsenal. It was at this time that he noticed that the buffs he could cast on others were highly biased on the offensive side of the spectrum, though he did not think that it was a bad thing. After mulling over it for a bit more, he decided to make the Blessed Water spell a one-time cast version of [Aqua Imperium Universalis], creating the spell [Supreme Aqua Benefica: Selfless Variant]. Unsurprisingly, this spell was also named by the system.

    Although Argentum wanted the skill to at least evolve one more time, the deadline he had set had alreadye up, prompting him to stop after twelve hours of immersion intoprehending the skill once more. Letting out a sigh of slight disappointment, he then went ahead and stood up before lightly stretching his body, a thing he nowmonly did after finishing a long session of training. He then checked the status of [Sage¡¯s Water Magic], somewhat bing satisfied after seeing it reach A-grade Mortal level at the Expert level of mastery.

    Taking in a deep breath, he then went ahead and boosted his movement speed before heading towards the corridor that connected the alliance¡¯s small ecosystem to its main hall, only taking a couple of minutes. To his surprise, by the time he had arrived in front of the corridor, Horell and Herellia were already there, conversing with one another as to what aspects of themselves had improved.

    At the very instant Argentum appeared in front of them, the two stopped what they were talking about before greeting each other with auras of glee and tion. And if one examined closely, one would even see a hint of expectation radiating from them.

    After that, the three of them went ahead and examined each other¡¯s usual auras, with Argentum noticing that Horell¡¯s aura had be more solidified, as well as more powerful. Taking into consideration that the hue of Horell¡¯s energy had be a darker cyan, he could not help but ask him, ¡°Hey, Horell. Did you evolve?¡±

    ¡°Uh-huh,¡± Horell nodded as he let out an aura of slight glee. ¡°I¡¯m now a Greater Mana Elemental, allowing me to gain more control over the mana around our surroundings. Naturally, mybat power has been boosted as well.¡±

    ¡°How about you, Argentum? What kind of gains have you made during the past week?¡± Horell asked Argentum as an additional response before adding, ¡°You look quite satisfied.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ve just grinded all of my skills, that¡¯s all,¡± Argentum replied, letting out a light chuckle in the process. He then added, ¡°Anyways, once Herellia¡¯s existence tribtion starts, I¡¯m pretty sure you two will be surprised at what I can do.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll be waiting for it then,¡± Herellia said in response to Argentum¡¯s words before recalling the improvements she had made during the past week. Letting out a sigh of satisfaction, she went ahead and told them, ¡°Before you ask me what improvements I¡¯ve made, I¡¯ve more or less improved in the skill department. I can assure you that my power right now isparably stronger than what I showed before.¡±

    ¡°d to hear,¡± Argentum said in response to Herellia¡¯s words. He then focused his sense of vision on the two of them before asking them, ¡°So¡­shall we start the main event?¡±

    Without dy, Horell and Herellia radiated auras of affirmation, which was mixed in with excitement and expectation, prompting them to activate their movement skills soon after. Naturally, Argentum activated his movement speed boosting spells as well.

    Whoosh!

    And just like that, the three of them headed towards a ce far away from the Verdant Blossom Branch Alliance, all three of them eager to be a part of what seemed to be an era of change for Tempest Cliff.

    ¡ª¡ª¨C

    Want to see some official art of IRAAS? Want to get additional perks?

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    Hope to see you there!

 Chapter 292: Forsaken Decade

    Chapter 292: Forsaken Decade

    Thanks to their incredibly high speeds, they were able to traverse a decently sized portion of Tempest Cliff within a matter of a couple of hours. Within this timespan, they assessed their surroundings and pondered whether or not they could use the surrounding environment to their advantage. Eventually, they stopped at a specific location that seemed to give Herellia a slightly better edge when it came to the existence tribtion that was about to befall her.

    On one side of their surroundings was a vast and grand in that seemed to be devoid of beings, perfect for the trial that was about to be as the three could rest at ease, knowing that no innocent being was going to be dragged into the eventual mess. If one looked farther beyond the ins, one would see a few hills that looked like mountains due to their angle of incline.

    On the other side, a plethora ofrge and thick trees baptized by the harsh winds of Tempest Cliff covered the surrounding area, to which the three thought that they could use it to their advantage when it came to protecting themselves against multiple bolts of lightning.

    As the three radiated auras of satisfaction and expectation aftering to terms with their surroundings, Herellia took in a deep breath through her body as sheposed herself, double-checking to make sure that she was in her best condition. As for Horell and Argentum, they made sure to distance themselves from Herellia. Of course, they distanced themselves far enough to not be caught up in her lightning, but close enough to help her out when she needed it.

    After a few minutes or so, the aura radiating from Herellia had now turned into that of determination and slight nervousness. Taking another deep breath to calm herself down, she turned her sense of vision towards the two and said in a slightly shaky voice, ¡°I¡¯m about to start my existence tribtion. Make sure to support me when it seems to be getting rough, okay?¡±

    ¡°Of course, that¡¯s why we¡¯re here,¡± Horell said in response, radiating an aura that seemed to tell her that there was nothing to worry about. Argentum, on the other hand, let out a light chuckle as a somewhat carefree aura radiated from him, replying to her words with a slightly yful tone, ¡°Don¡¯t overthink too much, overthinking isn¡¯t good in these types of situations. If you want, I could enhance your abilities before the existence tribtion truly starts.¡±

    In response, Herellia went silent for a short bit as an answer eventually surfaced in her mind, prompting her to radiate an aura of affirmation as she responded, ¡°Only use a few buffs on me at the start. Once you see me struggling, go all in.¡±

    She then focused her sense of vision towards Horell before continuing, ¡°The same goes for you as well.¡±

    ¡°Alright,¡± the two replied simultaneously to her words as they nodded their heads. After that conversation, the three of them went silent, with Horell and Argentum¡¯s senses of vision fully focused on Herellia. As for Herellia, her sense of vision was focused on the light blue skies that covered the world, taking a short nce at the sun that was now at the peak of the sky.

    ¡°It¡¯s time to get this over with,¡± Herellia muttered as she psyched herself up, doing onest check on her current condition before going ahead and closing her sense of vision soon after. She then went ahead and attuned her body to the energy in the surroundings before redirecting all of the energy inside her body towards a certain part. In this case, she redirected all of her energy towards the crimson veins that covered the exterior of her body.

    After a minute or so, the crimson veins on her body started to glow faintly, allowing the two slightly far away to know that Herellia was now starting to trigger the tribtion. While they were waiting for the tribtion to start, Argentum could not help but look at Horell and ask him, ¡°Did Herellia learn how to trigger the existence tribtion for the Animate town you two went to?¡±

    Surprisingly, Horell shook his head as he turned to look at Argentum and replied, ¡°Nope. She learned how to trigger the existence tribtion from Zelefaire.¡± He then added, ¡°Of course, I learned how to trigger mine through Zelefaire as well.¡±

    ¡°Zelefaire, huh¡­¡± Argentum muttered, recalling the few times Herellia and Horell mentioned Zelefaire to him. At this moment, he could not help but wonder as to what kind of being Zelefaire had be after evolving to the Animate existence level. Nevertheless, since he was still far away from that level, he ced the thought at the back of his head, only for a thought rted to the current scenario to surface not long after.

    Pondering over the recently surfaced thought for a bit, Argentum could not help but think to himself, ¡®The question does make sense in a way. I wonder if the system allows it.¡¯

    With that in mind, he went ahead and asked the system in his mind, saying, ¡°System, since I can trigger a Power Baptism through the system with the help of Power Baptism energy, surely I would be able to trigger an Existence Tribtion through the same methods as well, right?¡±

    As a soft notification sound resounded throughout his mind, the system¡¯s feminine-sounding voice soon responded to Argentum¡¯s query, saying, ¡°That is indeed correct. Of course, the user should create Existence Tribtion energy if the user wants to trigger an Existence Tribtion.¡±

    ¡°I see¡­¡± Argentum muttered to himself as he briefly let out a sigh of relief. Although he felt that such a thing would be natural for the system, he still could not help but be at ease after hearing that the system did have the capability to trigger an Existence Tribtion. Then again, Argentum felt that there was no problem if the system could not do such a thing since he could trigger the tribtion manually with the help of Aurus¡¯s memories.

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    Around five minutes had now passed since Herellia started her attempt to trigger the tribtion. At this moment, the crimson veins surrounding her body now had an intense red glow, with the veins themselves now turning white. Not only that, but Herellia¡¯s aura had undergone a great change as well throughout these past five minutes, giving Argentum and Horell the feeling that her aura would copse at any time¡­but behind that copse would bring forth a wave of greater power.

    Crack!

    After a few more seconds, the redirection of energy had finally reached its limit as all of the crimson veins surrounding Herellia¡¯s body shattered in unison. Concurrently, the aura she radiated had shattered as well, making Herellia give off the feeling that she was just a mundane branch. Of course, she was stillrge, but very mundane.

    Not long after, a beam of white and red energy was soon released from her body as it was aimed towards the light blue sky, bringing forth a great number of dark clouds far beyond what a normal Power Baptism would bring. In an instant, the skies that covered the trees and ins where they were currently residing had turned dark.

    At this moment, Herellia opened her sense of vision to witness the current scenario, noticing that there was still a beam of energy connecting her to the dark clouds up above. Recalling a certain memory at this time, Herellia took in a deep breath before shouting, ¡°My name is Herellia, an Inanimate wanting to go against the naturalws set by this world. I beseech the great heavens to grant my request and allow me to transcend my current existence, transforming into a being of greater power!¡±

    Bzzt¡­crash!

    Ding!

    Surprisingly, just as Herellia was finished saying that, the beam connecting her to the dark clouds had finally dispelled, which was soon followed up by a loud rumble resounding throughout the clouds. Simultaneously, a notification sound resounded from Argentum¡¯s mind, prompting him to open the notification, only to wonder what kind of requirement he had to meet in order for such a notification to appear.

    ¡®One of the user¡¯spanions has triggered an Existence Tribtion to ascend to a greater level of existence.¡¯

    ¡®Due to the power inside thepanion, the heavens have decided to let the user¡¯spanion undergo 3 trials before granting its wish.¡¯

    ¡®Adjusting the difficulty of the first trial to thepanion¡¯s power¡­¡¯

    ¡®The decided first trial of the user¡¯spanion shall be ¡®Forsaken Decade¡¯!¡¯

    ¡°Forsaken Decade¡­¡± After reading through the notifications he had received, he then muttered the name of the first trial, focusing his attention on the first word of the trial¡¯s name. He then looked at therge swath of dark clouds covering the sky, wanting to see if the trial about to befall Herellia was true to its name.

    Crackle¡­crash! Bang!

    After a short while, arcs of lightning now started to form inside the dark clouds, hastily taking on a red hue. Noticing this red hue, Argentum could not help but think of the red lightning from the Power Baptism, prompting him to ask himself, ¡°I wonder if the types of lightning for Power Baptisms also have a specific name to them?¡±

    As he said this, the red hue instantly turned darker. At this moment, the lightning darting through the dark clouds had now taken on a crimson hue, the intent of destruction radiating from them being tens of times far more intense than the intent of destruction radiated by a Power Baptism¡¯s red lightning.

    Sensing the intent of destruction emanating from the crimson lightning bolts, Argentum could not help but radiate an aura of nostalgia as he let out a soft chortle. He then said to himself, ¡°As the intent has now stabilized, it seems that the trial is true to its name.¡±

    ¡°Herellia is going to face ten rounds of Forsaken Lightning,¡± he soon added, trying to recall what he knew about the types of lightning for Existence Tribtions. Fortunately, it did not take long for him to do so as the lightning for Power Baptisms and Existence Tribtions were simr in terms of color, but the intent of destruction they radiated being far apart.

    In what he rummaged from his and Aurus¡¯s memories, the first type of lightning would be red-colored lightning, taking on the moniker of Forsaken. The second type would then be purple-colored lightning, taking on the moniker of Ruin. After that were the light blue and dark blue-colored lightning bolts, taking on the moniker of Cmity and Abyss respectively. It was at this moment that Argentum realized that he faced an Abyss-level bolt in thest round of his Power Baptism, only for it to split up into multiple Ruin-level bolts.

    After recalling the names of the bolts of lightning, Argentum remembered what Herellia told her a while ago, pondering over the first few buffs he would cast on her body before the first trial started. It did not take long for him toe to a decision as he let out a light chuckle, muttering to himself, ¡°You know what they say, go big or go home.¡±

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    Within a matter of a few seconds, Argentum hastily muttered incantations of two spells, allowing two balls, which were red and green respectively, to head towards Herellia and be absorbed by her body not long after.

    ¡°[Higher Ignis Magic: Ignis Fervor Maxima].¡±

    ¡°[Higher Zephyr Magic: Zephyr Magna eliaris].¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll save the other buffs forter,¡± he said not long after muttering the names of the spells he had cast, letting out a light chuckle as he radiated an aura of satisfaction. On the other hand, Horell noticed what Argentum had done and decided to cast a buff on his own on Herellia, sending a light cyan ball of energy towards her way.

    ¡°[Mana Resonance].¡±

    Whoosh!

    After Herellia had absorbed the buff Horell gave her, the crimson veins, which had disappeared after she had connected with the dark clouds up above, had now returned. The same went for the aura that radiated from her, albeit this time, the intensity of the aura had grown by a few notches thanks to the buffs Horell and Argentum had cast.

    Casting her sense of vision towards the two as she radiated an aura of gratitude aimed at them, she then focused her sense of vision back on the dark clouds that covered the light blue sky. She was waiting for the lightning bolts toe striking down at her, deciding to use some of her skills to enhance her abilities even further.

    Coincidentally, by the time she just finished activating her own skills¡­

    The first bolt of Forsaken Lightning had finally struck down!

    ¡ª¡ª¨C

    Want to see some official art of IRAAS? Want to get additional perks?

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    Hope to see you there!

 Chapter 293: The Ruined and the Forsaken

    Chapter 293: The Ruined and the Forsaken

    Bzzt¡­crash!

    Apanied by a deafening roar of thunder, a bolt of crimson lightning started to make its way down to where Herellia was, radiating an incredibly intense intent of destruction. If one looked closely at the bolt, they would notice that a few small ck particles mingled with the crimson energy particles that surrounded them. Unexpectedly, these small ck particles were the reason why the crimson bolt had such a level of intent.

    Not only that, but the intent radiated by the crimson bolt had its range amplified thanks to the small ck particles, making Horell and Argentum feel like Herellia¡¯s chances of surviving against the first bolt were slim. In their minds, they thought that she was a tiny wooden boat while the crimson bolt of lightning was a tsunami ready to engulf her whole.

    As the lightning bolt hastily made its way to where Herellia was, Horell could not help but make a decision out of impulse. Without thinking about the repercussions of his actions, he started to head towards where Herellia was with the intent of helping her in withstanding the first bolt. Unfortunately for him, a familiar silhouette blocked his path before he could go any further.

    ¡°What are you doing, Argentum?¡± Horell asked Argentum in a tone of slight fury, wondering if the being in front of him truly wanted Herellia to sessfully finish her Existence Tribtion. ¡°Can¡¯t you see that Herellia is in danger?¡±

    ¡°We can¡¯t say that as of yet,¡± Argentum said in a calm andposed tone, a stark contrast to the somewhat impatient hone hidden beneath Horell¡¯s words. Recalling what he knew about Power Baptisms, as well as what happened to the trials if one indirectly interfered in one, Argentum did not want to think about the consequences brought forth by direct interference. Naturally, he knew that directly interfering in a being¡¯s Existence Tribtion would amplify the difficulty of the trial to a great degree. He just did not know as to what extent it would reach.

    On top of that, he felt that it was still too early for them to directly interfere in an Existence Tribtion. In his mind, if they directly interfered in her tribtion right now, then her chances of seeding would instantly fall down to 0%. With that, he went ahead and talked with Horell about it, telling him, ¡°Since an Existence Tribtion is basically a trial wherein the heavens give the being a chance to go against their fates, that means that the being should shoulder the burden of the trial themselves.¡±

    ¡°Of course, that has not stopped other beings from helping the being undergoing the tribtion out,¡± Argentum added, wanting to add some sense to the currently panicking Horell. ¡°Nevertheless, the repercussions brought forth by indirect support instead of jumping into the fray is multiple times lower than thetter.¡±

    ¡°In other words, instead of helping Herellia out in her Existence Tribtion, you would instead give her a greater burden to carry, possibly needing your constant support in order for her chances to sessfully clear it to barely be above 0%,¡± he continued before asking him, ¡°With that in mind, are you sure you still want to help Herellia withstand the first bolt right now?¡±

    ¡°¡­¡± At that moment, Horell was left at a loss for words, prompting him to think over his impulsive decision to help his and Argentum¡¯spanion out. In less than a second, he realized that Argentum¡¯s words were indeed correct, recalling his memories of Zelefaire¡¯s Existence Tribtion in the past. With a sigh of disappointment directed towards himself, he looked at Argentum and apologized, saying, ¡°I shouldn¡¯t have let my fear get a hold on me. One of the keys for an Existence Tribtion to seed is a calm mind, and I¡¯ve already failed.¡±

    ¡°Well, no worries,¡± Argentum said in aforting tone, wanting to lift up the mood between the two. At this moment, the crimson bolt was now only a few dozen meters away from Herellia, prompting her to utilize her skills as a great amount of crimson red tendrils were conjured on her body.

    Swish! Swish! Swish!

    Without dy, all of the crimson red tendrils headed towards the crimson lightning bolt, giving Argentum and Horell the feeling that Herellia was going to fight against the bolt of lightning with offense. As an aura of curiosity radiated from him, a light chuckle came out of his mouth as he moved to Horell¡¯s side and said, ¡°Let¡¯s see how strong our alliance leader truly is.¡±

    Whoosh!

    Just as the two sides were about to collide, Herellia willed all of the crimson red tendrils to converge towards one point, transforming into arge crimson thorn as she shouted, ¡°[Grand Sanguine Arts: Crimson Pierce]!¡±

    Bang!

    At the very instant she was finished saying the name of the skill, the two sides had finally collided, resulting in a somewhat deafening explosion soon after. Not only that, but a few trees behind Herellia were blown away thanks to her current position. Surprisingly, after that, the sight of crimson lightning covering Herellia¡¯s body did not appear at all. Instead, the crimson thorn she conjured had sessfully defended against the crimson bolt, as well as dispelled it!

    Swoosh!

    As the first crimson bolt was dispelled, it soon transformed into multiple strands of crimson energy tinted with a hint of ck. These strands soon headed towards Herellia¡¯s body, who did not reject the iing strands as she knew what they were. Soon after, these strands were absorbed by Herellia, boosting herbat power by a considerable degree.

    Seeing as the first crimson bolt that came down was easily handled by Herellia, Argentum could not help but look at Horell and say with a chortle, ¡°What did I tell you? There¡¯s nothing to worry about. Herellia is the leader of the Verdant Blossom Branch Alliance. Although she would face a hard time against those of a higher existence level, she would take care of things like these with no problem.¡±

    ¡°As herpanions, shouldn¡¯t we have at least this bit of faith in her?¡± he continued, to which Horell let out an awkward chuckle as he replied, ¡°Alright, alright. You don¡¯t need to rub in what happened a few seconds ago.¡±

    ¡°Anyways, I have a far more important thing to tell you,¡± Horell said afterward before asking Argentum, ¡°How many rounds do you think Herellia willst until she needs our aid?¡±

    ¡°Hmm¡­good question,¡± Argentum answered as he mulled over the question. After a few seconds, he then replied, ¡°If my idea of this tribtion is correct, then with the buffs we cast a while ago on her, there would be no problem for her to clear the first trial.¡±

    ¡°That high of an expectation?¡± Horell responded in a slightly shocked tone, to which Argentum opened his mouth to respond, only for him to stop midway as a four crimson bolts came down from the dark clouds to smite Herellia down. With his mouth still open, he then went ahead and radiated an aura of slight glee before saying, ¡°You could say that this is my most conservative estimate.¡±

    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!

    Since four crimson lightning bolts hade down from the dark clouds, Argentum knew that his idea of the current trial was more or less correct, allowing him to let out a soft sigh of relief as he felt that Herellia would truly clear the first trial without any hups. The idea he had in mind came when he had just learned the name of the first trial, conjuring up a few hypotheses that seemed to fit the name of the trial. Although the current state of the trial was what he considered as the worst hypothesis out of all the hypotheses he had, it was still within his range of expectations.

    Bang! Bang! Bang! Bang!

    As for Herellia, she manipted the crimson thorn she had conjured a while ago and split it up into four smaller thorns, utilizing the entirety of her mind in making sure that the four thorns squarely hit the four bolts. Unfortunately, the ideal situation she had in her mind did not appear, which was a scenario wherein the four lightning bolts would be dispelled in one hit, just like what happened a while ago. Then again, the current scenario was not the worst case possible, with two crimson bolts dispelling after the first hit, leaving two crimson bolts behind.

    Making sure that she was not going to be hit by these bolts, she hastily manipted the two free thorns to head towards the two remaining bolts in a pincer formation, dispelling the two remaining bolts without a problem as a decently sized swarm of crimson strands was absorbed by her body not long after.

    And just like that, she continued through the rounds of the trial named ¡®Forsaken Decade¡¯, remembering to maintain a calm andposed mind as she knew that panicking would lead her to ruin. After the second round, which consisted of four lightning bolts, the third round of crimson bolts came, allowing nine lightning bolts to make their way towards Herellia. Naturally, she did not want to be in the passive, conjuring two morerge crimson thorns, bringing the total amount of crimson thorns she had connected to her body to three. With the buffs she had, as well as her prowess and experience with her skills, the third round of bolts was dispelled without a problem.

    Soon, the fourth round of lightning bolts came crashing down from the sky, bringing forth a total of 16 lightning bolts. Although she was about to get hit by the remaining bolts, with half of it being dispelled by the three crimson thorns she had around her, she utilized the movement speed boosting buff cast on her to its fullest potential, seemingly teleporting her way out of an inevitable collision course. After that, she conjured a great number of crimson red tendrils, which then wrapped around the crimson thorns in less than an instant, allowing the thorns to have greater prative power. This greater power allowed the thorns to dispel the remaining crimson bolts, enhancing Herellia¡¯sbat power by a notch once more.

    As for the fifth round of lightning bolts, which consisted of 25 crimson bolts, Herellia finally felt like she was having a hard time maneuver through the bolts and dispel all of them at once. Noticing this from afar, Argentum could not help but think that he had somewhat overestimated Herellia¡¯sbat power, contemting as to whether or not he should cast another buff on her to alleviate her burdens a bit. After hastily conversing with Horell about it as the two of them looked at her progress of dispelling the bolts, he eventually decided to cast the weakest offense boosting spell he had in his arsenal, sending a small red ball of energy towards her way.

    Unsurprisingly, this small red ball of energy was enough for Herellia to turn the tides, going from a state of escaping over 10 bolts at once, to having great confidence in herself that she could dispel all of the bolts in one go. At this point, she had already conjured seven crimson thorns, which had their offensive properties with more crimson red tendrils.

    Letting out a sigh of relief as the final crimson bolt was dispelled, she could not help but focus her sense of vision towards Argentum and Horell as she noticed that the dark clouds had gone silent for quite some time. Deciding that it would be faster to talk to them through energy strands, Herellia unhesitatingly went ahead and sent energy strands towards their way, connected the minds of the three.

    ¡°Thanks for the buff, Argentum,¡± Herellia said through the connection. ¡°I think I wouldn¡¯t have cleared this round without it.¡±

    ¡°More like you¡¯re making sure you don¡¯t want to overexert yourself,¡± Argentum said in response, letting out a yful giggle before adding, ¡°Then again, that¡¯s not a bad thing.¡±

    ¡°So, what made you talk with us in the middle of your trial, Herellia?¡± Horell asked after Argentum was finished with his reply, to which Herellia responded, ¡°To be honest, I¡¯m thinking of asking a few more buffs from you two???though I¡¯m having second thoughts. Should I go ahead with more buffs or should I make do with what I currently have?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m fine with either decision,¡± Horell replied as he shrugged. He then turned his look at Argentum before saying, ¡°How about you, Argentum? What do you think we should do?¡±

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡± Argentum pondered over Herellia¡¯s request for a bit, weighing the pros and cons of each choice. After about ten seconds or so, he looked at Horell for a bit before looking at Herellia as he replied, ¡°I¡¯d suggest we wait for the next round of bolts toe.¡±

    And surprisingly, Herellia followed Argentum¡¯s decision. She focused her sense of vision on the dark clouds above while she used the time to repair the crimson thorns she had conjured. Not to mention, she had also used the time to enhance the offensive properties of the thorns by a slight degree as well, giving her more confidence in the uing round.

    At the very instant she was finished enhancing her thorns, a loud rumble resounded throughout the dark clouds, prompting the trio to focus their senses of vision towards it. In an instant, they felt a wave of destruction far more intense than before envelop their bodies.

    Ding!

    Concurrently, a notification sound resounded throughout Argentum¡¯s mind, eliciting him to hastily read through thetest notification he had received. After skimming through it, Argentum went ahead and sent energy strands to both Herellia and Horell before saying, ¡°Guys¡­¡±

    ¡°I think it¡¯s time for us to cast a few more buffs.¡±

    ¡®The heavens have noticed the external enhancement of the trial taker¡¯s power. In response, the heavens have decided to adjust the difficulty of the first trial to the current trial taker¡¯s power.¡¯

    ¡®The trial ¡®Forsaken Decade¡¯ has been changed to¡­¡¯

    ¡®The Decade Waltz of the Ruined and the Forsaken!¡¯

    ¡ª¡ª¨C

    Want to see some official art of IRAAS? Want to get additional perks?

    Then head onto my Discord server! The link is https://discord.gg/SRaEwGE

    Hope to see you there!

 Chapter 294: A New Form

    Chapter 294: A New Form

    ¡°Hm?¡± Hearing Argentum speak up all of a sudden amidst the silence, Herellia and Horell could not help but focus their senses of vision onto him, wondering what made theirpanion say that out of the blue. Noticing that the two of them were looking at him with an aura of curiosity surrounding them, Argentum decided to answer the questions in their mind as he asked them, ¡°You guys felt that wave of destructive intent from a while ago, right?¡±

    ¡°Yeah,¡± the two replied to his question simultaneously. How could they not feel it? It was a wave of destructive intent that spread throughout the whole area they demarcated as the zone where Herellia¡¯s tribtion would take ce. Seeing as the two of them responded affirmatively, Argentum then connected the notification he had obtained from the system with the wave of destructive intent the three of them felt, saying, ¡°Well, it seems that the heavens don¡¯t like me and Horell helping you out in your tribtion, Herellia.¡±

    ¡°Eh?¡± Herellia radiated an aura of confusion as she listened to Argentum¡¯s words, wondering what he meant by that. Feeling that there was no point in exining as he felt that the next round of lightning bolts was about toe pretty soon, Argentum added on his statement by saying, ¡°Once the next round appears, you¡¯ll see what I mean.¡±

    ¡°Anyways, we should still cast a few more buffs on Herellia,¡± he said after that, his words focused towards Horell. In response, Horell asked him, ¡°Should we cast all of our buffs on her, or save some just in case?¡±

    ¡°Of course, thetter,¡± Argentum said without hesitation before adding, ¡°If we give her more buffs this time around, the next trial after this one would experience a huge bump in difficulty.¡±

    Noticing that Horell was radiating an aura that felt like he was looking at a madman, Argentum could not help but let out an inward sigh and say, ¡°You¡¯ll see what I mean when the next roundes.¡±

    Whoosh!

    After saying those words, Argentum did not hesitate to cast the weakest movement speed boosting spell he had in his arsenal, sending a small green ball of energy towards Herellia as the dark clouds went silent after that wave of destructive intent. Stopping for a bit to check if the dark clouds were about to make their move, he then continued casting the next level of offense boosting and movement speed boosting spells he had in his arsenal after making sure that the next round wasn¡¯ting down any time soon.

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    With two slightlyrger balls of red and green respectively, the amount of power coursing throughout Herellia¡¯s body had reached a new high, making Herellia feel like the previous round of lightning bolts wouldn¡¯t have been a problem if Argentum cast these spells on her at that round. Although she felt like Argentum was trying to test her limits, she thought that he had a good reason to do so, eventually corrting Argentum¡¯s words from a while ago regarding the next round to what was happening right now.

    As for Horell, he looked at the buffs Argentum gave Herellia before pondering on what buffs he should give her this time. Fortunately, it did not take long for him toe to a decision as he went ahead and sent out two decently sized balls of light cyan energy towards Herellia. After these two balls were absorbed by her body, Herellia felt like the amount of energy in her body was starting to overflow while the vitality of the cells making up her body had reached a new peak as well.

    ¡®An HP and MP recovery rate boosting spell, huh¡­¡¯ Argentum thought to himself as he saw the buffs Horell sent to Herellia. He could not help but focus his sense of vision towards Horell, to which Horell responded by focusing his sense of vision onto him as he let out an aura of slight curiosity while he asked him, ¡°What seems to be the matter?¡±

    ¡°Nothing, nothing,¡± Argentum hastily replied as he let out a slightly awkward chuckle. After that, he focused his vision onto the dark clouds, waiting for the changes mentioned by the system to show itself in reality. Unexpectedly, it was only after ten minutes or so did the dark clouds undergo a change as a loud rumble resounded throughout once more.

    Swoosh!

    With the trio¡¯s senses of vision focused on the cloud, they noticed that a small part of the lightning bolts darting throughout the dark clouds had now fused as one, transforming into a bolt of lightning that radiated an intent of destruction far more intense than the crimson bolts. If an outsider were to give a rough estimate on how intense the destructive intent from the new bolt waspared to a crimson bolt, they would probably say that it was around hundreds to thousands of times more intense.

    This new bolt of lightning took on a deepvender hue, a great contrast to therge swath of crimson bolts darting around the dark clouds. Soon, more and more crimson bolts fused up and transformed into thevender bolts of lightning, eventually upying around one-fourth of the area the dark clouds had.

    Bzzt¡­crash!

    As the fusion process of the bolts went for a temporary lull, the sixth round of lightning bolts eventually rained down from the heavens to smite Herellia down, bringing forth a total of 36 lightning bolts. This time though, the bolts were not purely crimson anymore. Instead, ninevender lightning bolts apanied the remaining 27 crimson bolts, with 3 crimson bolts circling eachvender lightning bolt.

    Noticing that the speed of thevender lightning bolts was more or less double than the crimson lightning bolts, Herellia went ahead and utilized the power of her mind to its maximum as she unhesitatingly went ahead and conjured a few more crimson thorns, bringing the total crimson thorns connected to her body to 10. Normally, Herellia would feel an immense amount of burden on her mind while controlling 10 crimson thorns at once. But thanks to the buff Horell gave, it alleviated some of the burdens on her mind, allowing her to break through what seemed to be a limit for her.

    Swoosh! Swoosh! Swoosh! Swoosh!

    Not allowing thevender and crimson lightning bolts to make their way towards her body, she went ahead and manipted the ten crimson thorns towards the oing bolts, with one crimson thorn defending against avender lightning bolt and three crimson bolts each. As for the remaining crimson thorn, she positioned it close to her body just in case any stray lightning bolt were to pass through the thorns and continue to make its way towards her body.

    Fortunately, that did not happen as the buffs Argentum had cast finally showed its true colors, improving Herellia¡¯s offensive abilities to an exemry degree as three offensive buffs were working in unison. Thanks to this, the offensive power of each crimson thorn was at an all-time high, allowing them to dispel the three crimson bolts surrounding thevender lightning bolts without a problem while still having enough energy to weaken thevender bolts by at least half!

    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!

    With thevender lightning bolts weakened, Herellia manipted the nine extended crimson thorns to attack at thevender lightning bolts once more, finally dispelling them as all of them transformed into purple strands that headed towards her body. After these strands were absorbed, the amount of power flowing throughout Herellia¡¯s body had increased once more.

    Rumble¡­

    As a loud rumble resounded throughout the area once more, Herellia could not help but look up at the dark clouds and notice that the crimson lightning bolts were being transformed intovender lightning bolts yet again. Letting out an inward sigh of relief in response to the sight, she decided to conjure up a few more crimson thorns in preparation for the next round. While doing so, she went ahead and sent an energy strand to the two, who were watching her from afar, allowing them to speak with one another once more.

    ¡°I think I finally get what you mean, Argentum,¡± Herellia said as she focused her sense of vision onto the faraway Argentum as she recalled the sensation brought by the lightning bolts from a while ago. ¡°The purple bolts are a sign that the heavens don¡¯t want you two to help me out in my Existence Tribtion, right?¡±

    ¡°Exactly,¡± Argentum said as he lightly nodded before exining, ¡°If we cast all of our buffs from the start of the first trial, then the difficulty of the bolts you¡¯re facing right now might be higher. You could be facing against a wide array of purple bolts, or even worse, a far more terrifying type of lightning bolt.¡±

    ¡°Wait a second¡­¡± Horell said out of the blue, prompting the two of them to look at him as he pondered over something for a bit. Eventually, he found his train of thought as he looked at Herellia and said, ¡°Isn¡¯t this the same thing that happened in Zelefaire¡¯s tribtion?¡±

    ¡°To think that the bump in the difficulty of his trial was brought about by us helping him out,¡± he added, letting out a soft sigh of regret. Soon focusing his vision towards Argentum, he then asked him after mulling over something else, ¡°I was wondering¡­how strong are blue lightning bolts?¡±

    ¡°Incredibly strong,¡± Argentum said without hesitation, taking into consideration the darkening of each bolt for Existence Tribtions whenpared to Power Baptisms. He then added, ¡°You¡¯d be thanking the heavens if you faced a swath of purple bolts instead of a single blue bolt. That¡¯s how terrifying it is.¡±

    ¡°I see¡­¡± Horell said after trying to wrap his mind around what Argentum said. But just as he was about to ask Argentum a few more questions, the seventh round of lightning bolts came crashing down towards Herellia, dispelling the connection the three had as she focused her attention towards the oing bolts.

    The seventh round brought along 49 lightning bolts, with 16 of the oing lightning bolts beingvender. Noticing this, Argentum could not help but feel like something wrong was happening in the trial, but could not put his finger on what.

    Fortunately, Herellia had somewhat prepared for such a scenario, bringing forth a total of 12 crimson thorns towards thevender bolts, which were surrounded by two crimson bolts each, with a special one being surrounded by three. To the current Herellia, 12 crimson thorns at once seemed to be limit to what her mind could handle while maintaining all sense of rationality.

    Without hesitation, she made the crimson thorns charge towards thevender bolts, dispelling a great portion of the crimson lightning bolts in the process. After dispelling those crimson bolts, she went ahead and manipted the crimson thorns to congregate and turn into what looked like arger crimson thorn from afar. She willed these thorns to move towards the remainingvender and crimson lightning bolts from ateral angle, allowing the fusion of each crimson thorn¡¯s power to do all of the work, dispelling the remaining bolts just as they were only a few meters away from her body.

    ¡°Huuh¡­¡± Herellia let out a sigh of exhaustion as she had a hunch that the next round was going to be far harder than the round she had just finished, even with the decent increment in power she had just experienced from the purple strands being absorbed by her body. Nevertheless, she continued to psych herself up as she knew that by finishing through all of the trials brought to her by the heavens, she would finally fulfill the wish she had been wanting to fulfill for quite a long time.

    ¡°I should try and form another crimson thorn,¡± Herellia muttered to herself after psyching herself up. Unfortunately for her, just as she was about to start forming the 13th crimson thorn, the eighth round of lightning bolts came down from the dark clouds, not giving her a decent amount of time to rest. This time around, 64 lightning bolts made their way towards Herellia¡­with half of the group beingposed ofvender lightning bolts!

    ¡°So that¡¯s what¡¯s happening!¡± Argentum said in a slightly loud voice as he finally figured what he felt was off from the lightning bolts a while ago. Noticing that Horell was looking at him with a slightly intrigued aura surrounding him, Argentum took in a deep breath before saying, ¡°The purple bolts are slowly recing the red bolts with each round. This means that the difficulty of withstanding through each round greatly increases as the number of bolts continue to increase, unlike the first five rounds wherein the difficulty only came from the increase in quantity.¡±

    ¡°I presume that thest round of lightning bolts would be made up of purple lightning bolts,¡± Argentum said not long after, prompting Horell to ask him, ¡°Then what should we do? You¡¯ve exined earlier that casting buffs on Herellia would increase the difficulty of the next trial to a greater degree. Is there any way to help her out without affecting the trial?¡±

    ¡°Unfortunately, there is none,¡± Argentum said in a slightly despondent tone as he let out a sigh of slight disappointment. Looking at Herellia¡¯s current state, he then told Horell, ¡°We must hope that Herellia canst as long as possible with the buffs we¡¯ve given her. We can only sparingly give her buffs along the way. In other words¡­¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s more or less up to Herellia right now if she survives this trial or not.¡±

    At this moment, thevender and crimson lightning bolts were heading towards Herellia in pairs, as if they were mocking the number of crimson thorns Herellia had conjured. Just as she thought that it was the best time to ask Argentum and Horell to increase her abilities once more, she remembered what Argentum told her a while ago, eventually deciding to not ask them as it would affect the difficulty of her subsequent trials.

    She then hastily scanned through the skills she had in her arsenal, even taking into consideration the skills she considered as her trump cards. Eventually, her sense of vision was fixed on a certain skill she was saving for ater round. Looking at the crimson thorns around her body before looking at the oing lightning bolts, Herellia could not help but let out an inward sigh as she muttered to herself, ¡°Good thing I umted enough energy from the members before undergoing this trial. If not, this might be the only trump card I can use.¡±

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    In less than an instant, the crimson thorns around her body had exploded into multiple pieces of shrapnel, slightly weakening the oing lightning bolts as a great amount of red viscous fluid scattered throughout the process. At this moment, it looked like Herellia was a branch that was used to kill someone. But in great contrast to her appearance, the aura surrounding her had experienced a great increase in intensity as the amount of power coursing throughout Herellia¡¯s body had ascended one more grade.

    As the crimson veins surrounding her body started to emanate a faint white glow, she went ahead and conjured multiple crimson red tendrils before manipting them to head towards the lightning bolts as she shouted¡­

    ¡°[Grand Sanguine Arts]¡­¡±

    ¡°[Amaranthine Release]!¡±

    ¡ª¡ª¨C

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 Chapter 295: Fatal Error

    Chapter 295: Fatal Error

    Amidst the shouting, the crimson red tendrils Herellia had conjured made their way towards the lightning bolts at incredibly fast speeds, a great contrast to the speed at which the crimson thorns approached the bolts from before. All of this was due to the massive boost in power Herellia obtained from sacrificing the crimson thorns she had formed. In actuality, she wanted to save the move forter as it would allow her to rely less on Argentum and Horell¡¯s buffs from the side. Unfortunately, the destructive intent hidden inside the current round of bolts was enough for Herellia to go ahead and use this skill.

    Psh! Psh! Psh!

    Utilizing the entirety of her mind, she willed the tendrils to head towards the crimson lightning bolts, to which the tendrils easily dispelled thanks to the inherent power currently imbued inside them. While that was happening, Herellia split her attention into two as she allocated a part of it towards conjuring more tendrils before fusing them into crimson thorns. Although she would be able to deal more damage with the tendrils thanks to the skill she had used, to her, it would still be beneficial for her tobine the tendrils into thorns. Not only would it allow her to unleash far greater power than ever before, but if she needed to, she could sacrifice the thorns to achieve another [Amarathine Release]¡­though it would put a greater toll on her body.

    Nevertheless, since this was her existence tribtion, she thought that it was more or less useless to think about the safety of one¡¯s body when one¡¯s life was at stake. By the time the crimson red tendrils had dispelled all of the crimson lightning bolts, only leaving thevender lightning bolts remaining, Herellia had already formed three crimson thorns within that short timespan. Unexpectedly, a faint gold sheen could be seen on the surface of the crimson thorns, acting as a nice contrast to the bloody red of the thorns.

    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!

    Recalling the tendrils that acted as the temporary vanguard, she then willed the newly formed crimson thorns to head towards thevender lightning bolts from ateral angle. Thanks to this decision, a decent amount ofvender lightning bolts were dispelled within one swipe of the crimson thorns. After a few more minutes, the three crimson thorns were able to sessfully dispel all of thevender lightning bolts while two more crimson thorns were made in the process.

    Seeing as all of the lightning bolts in the current round were now gone, Herellia could not help but let out a sigh of relief as she let the purple strands from the dispelled bolts be absorbed by her body, bringing forth a decent improvement to herbat power. While she was in the process of limating herself to the power increment, she could not help but take notice of the number ofvender lightning bolts inparison to the crimson lightning bolts.

    ¡°At first, the number of purple bolts was far less than the red bolts,¡± Herellia muttered as her mind worked on overdrive as she allocated a part of her attention to making more crimson thorns. ¡°But at this round, the number of purple bolts are equal to the red bolts.¡±

    Feeling that the next round was about to be more difficult for her, Herellia could not help but briefly radiate an aura of dread as she asked herself, ¡°Does that mean that¡­in the next round, the number of purple bolts will be more than the red bolts?¡±

    Rumble¡­

    As if the heavens were answering her question, the dark clouds let out a loud rumble that resounded throughout the area. Concurrent to the rumble, the crimson lightning bolts darting through the dark clouds seemed to have formed an agreement as a great portion of them congregated and fused up, transforming intovender lightning bolts.

    While this was happening, Argentum and Horell could not help but radiate auras of glee as they noticed what Herellia had done to clear the eighth round. With a light chuckle, Argentum could not help but say, ¡°To think that she was hiding something for times like these. As expected from the Alliance Leader!¡±

    ¡°To be honest, she was saving that skill for ater time,¡± Horell said by the side, informing Argentum of Herellia¡¯s thoughts when it came to the skill. ¡°Maybe she remembered your words from a while ago where you said that us giving her buffs would lead to a bump in the trial¡¯s difficulty, forcing her to use this skill without hesitation.¡±

    ¡°Speaking of which, wouldn¡¯t the trial still bump up in difficulty even if she used her own skill to boost her power?¡± he asked Argentum not long after in a curious tone, prompting Argentum to be silent as he pondered over the question, recalling his and Aurus¡¯s experiences of such matters. It did not take long for his thoughts to eventually arrive at his first Power Baptism, recalling the huge spike in difficulty at the veryst round. He remembered very well that the only thing he obtained as external support was Blob¡¯s shield. Other than that, all of the power boosts he had undergone were reliant on him.

    Feeling that he had note to a conclusion yet, Argentum decided to ask the question to the system in his mind, specifically asking whether or not utilizing one¡¯s own skill in boosting their power would increase the trial¡¯s difficulty. Fortunately, it did not take long for the system to respond to Argentum¡¯s question as it said in a feminine-sounding voice, ¡°That would be a yes, though the increase in difficulty from one using their own skills instead of external support would result in a far smaller bump than thetter. The same thing applies to Power Baptisms as well.¡±

    Hearing the response of the system, Argentum could not help but feel a bit of dread as he thought to himself, ¡®So you¡¯re saying that¡­if all of my buffs came from another person, then thest round wouldn¡¯t just be facing up against a dark blue bolt of lightning?!¡¯

    ¡®Wouldn¡¯t that already be Genesis-level¡­¡¯ he continued to think, only for him to stop thinking about it as it had already happened in the past. Returning his train of thought to the present, Argentum focused his sense of vision towards Horell and replied, ¡°I¡¯m not sure. As long as we make sure to help Herellia, she¡¯ll definitely zoom through her Existence Tribtion.¡±

    ¡°I see¡­¡± Horell uttered in a tone of mixed understanding and confusion as a response. He then focused his sense of vision back to Herellia, noticing that the fusion of lightning bolts in the dark clouds had finally stopped.

    ¡°The next round of lightning bolts are about toe,¡± Horell said to Argentum, to which Argentum responded by focusing his sense of vision towards the dark clouds. It did not take long for him to notice that the area upied by thevender bolts on the dark clouds was now farrger than the area upied by the crimson bolts. With such a sight, he then hastily focused his sense of vision towards Herellia and muttered, ¡°You better hold on for as long as you can, okay?¡±

    Bzzt¡­crash!

    And so, the ninth round of lightning bolts had finallye down from the dark clouds, bringing along a total of 81 lightning bolts for Herellia to dispel. And just as she thought in her mind, the number ofvender bolts had exceeded the number of crimson bolts in a ratio of 3 to 1. This time, the crimson bolts were the ones being surrounded, with almost all of them being surrounded by threevender lightning bolts in a spiral formation¡­though one crimson bolt had novender bolt surrounding it whatsoever.

    Looking at the great number of lightning bolts she had to dispel this time, Herellia went ahead and steeled herself as she manipted the nine crimson thorns she had made so far towards the crimson lightning bolts as they were the weakest link. Naturally, due to the vast difference in power between Herellia¡¯s current crimson thorns and the crimson lightning bolts, all of the crimson lightning bolts were dispelled, even giving Herellia enough time to add in one more crimson thorn into the fray.

    Unfortunately, that was where the good news stopped. The 60 remainingvender bolts were still on their way to collide with Herellia¡¯s body, prompting Herellia tobine the 10 crimson thorns she had into tworge crimson thorns as she used them like a blunt weapon, swinging them from ateral angle. Although that was enough for about half of thevender lightning bolts to be dispelled, the remaining half still remained adamant to smite Herellia down with the power inherent within them.

    Seeing as thevender lightning bolts were still heading straight towards her body, Herellia went ahead and summoned all of the energy inside her body towards movement, activating the movement speed boosting buffs that were cast on her body as well. With a soft whoosh, Herellia pushed her movement skill to its greatest as she moved in between therge swath of trees, thinking of using the trees as a cover to give her some time to retaliate against thevender lightning bolts.

    Surprisingly, that idea had worked, with thevender lightning bolts taking more time to head towards Herellia as they decided to swerve around the trees rather than pierce directly through them. With the amount of time she had bought for herself, she hastily conjured two more crimson thorns, bringing the total amount of thorns she had back to the maximum as shebined the two into the tworge crimson thorns.

    Just as she had finished fusing the two new thorns into therge crimson thorns, she decided to focus her vision behind her, only to see that thevender lightning bolts were already a few meters away behind her! Wondering what she could do to widen the gap between her and the lightning bolts, she eventually concluded that there was no way for her to do as most of her trump cards were rted to the increase inbat power.

    Fortunately for her, just as she was on the brink of despair, a decentlyrge green ball of energy hastily made its way towards Herellia¡¯s body. Due to the nature of the ball¡¯s energy, Herellia¡¯s movement speed was instantly increased to a level where she could outrun the lightning bolts. Within a few seconds, the gap between the two wasrge enough for her to stop where she was and focus all of her attention on therge crimson thorns. And just like that, the remainingvender bolts were dispelled by Herellia, although the time at which she had taken to do so had increased in the process.

    Letting out a sigh of relief as she made her way back to her original position, Herellia went ahead and focused her sense of vision towards Argentum before saying through an energy strand, ¡°Thanks for the buff.¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t mention it,¡± Argentum said with a light chuckle. Soon after, he told her in a somewhat serious tone, ¡°In the next round, I won¡¯t give you any more buffs. I hope you can survive the next round with what you currently have.¡±

    Although she wanted to ask a few more buffs from Argentum, she understood where Argentum wasing from, prompting her to keep her requests to herself as she replied, ¡°I¡¯ll try my best.¡±

    And with that response, Herellia ended the conversation between them as she unhesitatingly went ahead and fused the tworge crimson thorn into onerge crimson thorn. This time, the golden sheen surrounding the thorns had be a bit more intense, making anyone that looked at it from afar think that the thorn seemed to be made out of gold.

    As for Argentum and Horell, Horell could not help but look at Argentum with an aura of shock as he asked, ¡°Did you just buff her up?¡± In response, Argentum lightly nodded, prompting Horell to ask him yet another question, saying, ¡°Didn¡¯t you say that we shouldn¡¯t buff her up too much?¡±

    ¡°I didn¡¯t say anything like that,¡± Argentum said. He then added, ¡°In any case, we can¡¯t afford to buff her up one more time as this round might be the hardest she would ever face.¡±

    With that, the two of them focused their senses of vision back at Herellia¡­just as the final round of lightning bolts hade crashing down.

    Bzzt¡­crash!

    In an instant, 100 lightning bolts filled with destructive intent hade down from the dark clouds to smite Herellia down. To her dismay, these 100 lightning bolts¡­were allvender!

    ¡°Ahhhh!!!!¡± In response, Herellia let out a loud shout as she went ahead and activated one of the offense boosting skills she had in her arsenal. Simultaneously, she willed therge crimson thorn to head towards thevender lightning bolts, willing it to move in a spiral direction as she took the tendril connecting the thorn to her body into consideration. With that, the number of lightning bolts heading towards her way gradually became less and less.

    90¡­80¡­70¡­50¡­30¡­

    Unfortunately, although the number ofvender lightning bolts continued to decrease, the gap between her and the lightning bolts decreased as well, prompting her to head into the trees once more to buy some time for her to push herself to the limit and break through the current situation she was in.

    Whoosh!

    Just like before, the remainingvender lightning bolts, which amounted to about 20 or so, swerved around the trees like slippery snakes, continuing to head towards Herellia to achieve their ultimate goal. Thanks to the movement speed boosting buff Argentum cast on her earlier, the gap between her and thevender lightning bolts continued to gradually increase. After about ten seconds or so of utilizing her movement skill to the fullest, she felt like there was still hope for her to clear the tenth round without asking for help¡­

    Until there was none anymore.

    Swoosh! Swoosh!

    Out of the blue, a fewvender lightning bolts appeared in front of Herellia, instantly making her radiate an aura of disbelief as she wondered how these bolts came in front of her all of a sudden. She then noticed the arcs of the lightning bolts in the sky, seeing that some of the lightning bolts, noticing that she had entered the trees, decided to change their approach¡­as if they had a mind of their own.

    ¡®This is it,¡¯ Herellia could not help but think to herself as she was basically sandwiched between two groups ofvender lightning bolts wanting to smite her and turn her body into a mangled mess. But just as she felt like there was no more hope for her¡­

    A barrier was soon cast around her body!

    ¡ª¡ª¨C

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 Chapter 296: Familiar

    Chapter 296: Familiar

    The first reaction Herellia had from a barrier abruptly appearing around her was an aura of intense disbelief and shock. Although she knew that it was either Horell or Argentum that had cast the barrier on her body just as she was about to get hit byvender lightning bolts from both sides, she still remembered the words Argentum told her regarding supporting her. In her mind, she was thinking, ¡®Wouldn¡¯t this make the next trials harder?¡¯

    With that in mind, she could not help but let out an inward sigh as she ced the thought of the subsequent trials bing harder in the back of her mind. For now, she decided to take advantage of the bought time given by the barrier, unhesitatingly heading towards another direction perpendicr to the oingvender lightning bolts.

    Crack!

    Unsurprisingly, under the bombardment of arge number ofvender lightning bolts meant to smite a being down, the barrier that Herellia abandoned had cracked under one unified blow of the remaining bolts. Nevertheless, this gave Herellia enough time to prepare for the bolts with a high level of confidence.

    Pointing therge crimson thorn towards the oing lightning bolts, she then decided to push herself beyond her limits as the burden on her mind had gone beyond the level where she could maintain a decent level of rationality. Nevertheless, she was thinking that she should boost her chances of eradicating all of the remainingvender lightning bolts in one fell swoop while she still could do so.

    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!

    Surprisingly, while thevender lightning bolts were searching for Herellia¡¯s trace, taking quite some time to eventually figure where she had gone, she made three more crimson thorns,bining them into therge crimson thorn as it now radiated an aura a bit more intense than before. Although she felt like her mind was being stretched to its limits to amodate the burden brought about by the three new crimson thorns, she tried her hardest to ignore the pain in her mind as she willed the new and improvedrge crimson thorn towards thevender lightning bolts.

    Swish!

    Willing therge crimson thorn to turn an angle perpendicr to the tendril that was connecting it to Herellia, she then manipted therge crimson thorn to rotate with the tendril as the axis, turning into what looked like an incrediblyrge yet bluntwnmower de.

    Then again, this approach was highly sessful as Herellia willed therge crimson thorn to rotate as fast as possible, not giving thevender lightning bolts any time to pass through the blind spot of the crimson thorn. Of course, for those that were lucky enough to pass through the crimson thorn while it was dispelling the other bolts, Herellia went ahead and manipted the crimson thorn to head towards the lucky lightning bolt and dispel it directly with a quick pierce.

    And just like that, the remaining twenty bolts, which made Herellia feel like she was at her wit¡¯s end, were finally dispelled, allowing her to let out a sigh of relief as she recalled the three crimson thorns she had just made. After that, she made her way back to her original position, hoping that the next round wouldn¡¯t have an incredibly big spike in difficulty.

    While doing so, she could not help but take a look at the dark clouds, noticing that the remaining area of the dark clouds that were covered by crimson lightning had now been upied byvender lightning. Seeing as there was nothing brewing on the dark clouds, Herellia thought that the heavens were giving her a time to rest, as well as time for her to limate to the improvements brought about by thest round.

    To her surprise, the improvement brought about by the purple strands made by thest round of lightning bolts were far more potent than thest nine roundsbined. Wondering what her next n of action should be, she could not help but focus her sense of vision onto Argentum and Horell, only to find out that Argentum was radiating an aura of anger while Horell was radiating an aura of guilt.

    Wanting to know what was happening, Herellia unhesitatingly went ahead and sent a few energy strands towards Argentum and Horell, unexpectedly allowing her to find out who had cast the barrier that gave her time to retaliate against the remaining lightning bolts.

    ¡°Horell! Why the heck did you cast a barrier around her?!¡± Argentum looked at Horell with an aura of intense fury. Although he had expected Horell to possibly cast a buff on Herellia after seeing her at her wit¡¯s end, never once did he expect him to cast a skill. As if the system knew the repercussions of what Horell had done, a notification sound resounded in his mind just as Horell had cast the skill, prompting him to open up the notification and see what it was.

    Ding!

    ¡®One of the user¡¯spanions has directly interfered with the trial taker¡¯s chances of surviving thest round of the first trial. The heavens have decided to increase the difficulty of the next trial in response to that action.¡¯

    In response, Horell responded to Argentum¡¯s question in an apologetic tone as he said, ¡°I know what I¡¯ve done, and I deeply regret it. I¡¯m sorry, Argentum. I just didn¡¯t want to see Herellia be bombarded by the lightning bolts and I¡­sigh¡­¡±

    Hearing Horell let out a sigh, Argentum could not help but let out a sigh of his own as he told Horell, ¡°Well, Horell. Just so you know, you¡¯ve pretty much directly interfered with Herellia¡¯s Existence Tribtion. In other words, she has to bear the consequences of it once the next roundes crashing down. You do know what that entails, right?¡±

    ¡°Of course I do,¡± Horell said as the aura of regret around him intensified. But just as he was about to continue exining the reasons why he had cast that barrier on Herellia, a voice they did not expect to hear soon resounded in their minds as it said, ¡°So you were the one who cast the barrier on me?¡±

    After radiating brief auras of surprise, the two of them returned to their previous auras. The first one to respond to Herellia¡¯s words was Argentum, asking her, ¡°How did it go? I could barely see what was happening between the trees.¡±

    ¡°Terrible,¡± Herellia said sinctly before focusing her vision on Horell from afar. She then said, directing her words to Horell, ¡°To be honest, Horell, if it wasn¡¯t for your timely barrier activation, I probably wouldn¡¯t be here standing uh¡­somewhat far away from you two.¡± After that, she let out a light chuckle, slightly alleviating the atmosphere between Argentum and Horell.

    ¡°Then again, we shouldn¡¯t ignore Argentum¡¯s words,¡± Herellia added soon after before continuing, ¡°Thanks to your interference, the difficulty of my subsequent trials would increase as a consequence. I¡¯m not saying I¡¯m ming you for doing that, I¡¯m just saying that I might need to change my n of action.¡±

    ¡°What do you have in mind?¡± Argentum asked while taking a short nce at the dark clouds. Herellia pondered over the n in her mind for a bit before responding, ¡°So far, I¡¯ve used one of my trump cards, which sacrifices all of the crimson thorns I¡¯ve formed in exchange forbat power. At most, I can use it one more time, but at that point, it would be somewhat hard for me to move my body.¡±

    ¡°Other than that, I still have a few more trump cards up my sleeve, and I feel like a great number of them would be used in the following rounds,¡± she added soon after. After that, she finally got to the main part of her statement from earlier, saying, ¡°If I want to reduce the number of trump cards I use from here on out, which means a greater chance of me clearing the Existence Tribtion, I would need you two to use all of your buffs on me, disregarding the consequences thate afterward.¡±

    ¡°To be honest, I¡¯m also thinking of having you two directly help me out in defending against the lightning bolts, but that¡¯s just ast resort thing,¡± she continued. She then focused her vision onto the two and asked them, ¡°What do you think about the change in my n?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m not so sure on where I stand,¡± Horell was the first one to reply, radiating an aura of uncertainty in the process. ¡°On one end, I want to agree with the changes you¡¯ve made as it would increase your chances of sessfully clearing it¡­but at the same time, I don¡¯t want to agree with it because, with these changes, the final trial would definitely end up bing incredibly hard.¡±

    ¡°What Horell said,¡± Argentum followed up on Horell¡¯s response. ¡°Although it would indeed make the next rounds of your tribtion easier, in the long run, it would end up giving you an incredibly big burden that you have to shoulder. Worst case scenario, you would die before you sessfully clear your tribtion from the spike in difficulty alone. Are you willing to take that risk though?¡±

    ¡°Well¡­¡± Just as Herellia was about to respond to Argentum¡¯s question, the dark clouds let out a rumble far louder than before, resounding throughout the area, possibly even being heard from the entrance of the Verdant Blossom Branch Alliance¡¯s base. Hearing such a deafening rumble, the trio could not help but focus their senses of vision towards the dark clouds. They noticed that in the middle portion of the dark clouds, another type of lightning was brewed.

    Unexpectedly, this type of lightning did not have any destructive intent to it at all. In fact, it could be said that the intent emanating from it was quite the opposite. An intent filled with life and nourishment could be felt from the new type of lightning being brewed. The intensity of the intent was at a high level that even Argentum and Horell could feel the intent from afar. As for Herellia, she could not help but feel that the new type of lightning was made for her.

    Ding!

    While the new type of lightning was still in the process of brewing, a notification sound resounded in Argentum¡¯s mind all of a sudden, making him wonder as to why the system would notify him at such a random time. After he had read through the notifications, Argentum finally realized that the new type of lightning was not created for no reason, focusing his attention onto Herellia as he thought to himself, ¡®It seems that her ns are going to be changed quite a lot after this.¡¯

    ¡®As the trial taker has sessfully passed through the first trial given by the heavens, although there was slight direct interference, the heavens have decided to partially grant the trial taker¡¯s wish of evolving their existence. The heavens have decided to grant the trial taker a transitional evolution, allowing the trial taker to limate to the newfound senses that would eventually be brought about by the final transitional evolution.¡¯

    ¡®The heavens are sensing the trial taker¡¯s current species and existence level¡­¡¯

    ¡®Species and existence level confirmed. The trial taker is of the Inanimate existence level, species being Branch Grandius Formosus ¡ª Blood Belhazard (Special+).¡¯

    ¡®The heavens are deciding on the ideal transitional evolution for the trial taker¡­¡¯

    ¡®The heavens have decided on the trial taker¡¯s first transitional evolution.¡¯

    Bzzt¡­crash!

    After a couple more minutes, the new type of lightning was finally finished brewing, making its way down towards Herellia as a series of lightning bolts that gradually changed their color over time. Knowing that the lightning boltsing down made her feel like there was a connection between her and the bolts, Herellia did not resist, allowing them to strike down on her body as she felt immense pleasure from the collision.

    Whoosh!

    Surprisingly, Herellia started to levitate off the ground after more lightning bolts hade down and collided with her body, as if she had ascended. Although Argentum knew what was currently happening to Herellia, Horell did not, prompting him to look at the currently calm Argentum and ask in a slightly panicked tone, ¡°What¡¯s happening to Herellia?¡±

    Argentum concisely responded, ¡°She¡¯s evolving.¡±

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    After a few more seconds, Herellia¡¯s body was soon covered in the new type of lightning bolts, acting like a cocoon that shrouded Argentum and Horell¡¯s vision from the evolution process that Herellia was undergoing. Then again, the changes that were happening to Herellia¡¯s body could be described as a change far beyond normalprehension.

    The first change that had happened to her body was that the crimson veins covering her body had disappeared in an instant, turning into strands that floated around her body. Soon after, her body was then stretched out in the figure of a beautiful woman, transforming Herellia¡¯s appearance to that of an exquisitely crafted wooden sculpture.

    Some timeter, a few of the lightning bolts were absorbed by Herellia¡¯s body, making Herellia feel like she could move her limbs as if she was an Animate. And then, the crimson strands, which were previously the veins covering her body, were once absorbed by her body, covering the majority of her upper and lower body in a way that made it look like she was wearing a crimson red robe. On top of that, some of the crimson strands made their way towards the hair portion of her appearance, dying it a slightly dark crimson red.

    Whoosh!

    And just like that, within ten minutes or so, Herellia¡¯s transitional evolution was done. As the lightning bolts acting as a cocoon gradually dissipated, the newly evolved Herellia was soon revealed to the visions of Argentum and Horell, who both could not help believe the immense change brought about by the evolution she had undergone.

    Noticing that the two of them were looking at her with auras of shock and disbelief, Herellia could not help but ask herself, ¡°What made them so shocked?¡±

    She then went ahead and looked around her surroundings, her sense of vision eventually stopping on the puddle of red viscous fluid she was standing on as some of the dark clouds parted away to allow a bit of sunlight to shine down. Surprisingly, these rays of sunlight were directed towards the red viscous fluid she was standing on, allowing her to realize that the reason why the two were shocked¡­was because of her!

    Ding!

    While both Argentum and Horell were still at a loss for words thanks to Herellia¡¯s current appearance, Argentum obtained a notification from the system, prompting him to check what it was all about. After a few seconds of reading through the notifications, he could not help but look at Herellia a few times before ncing at the notification he had received, muttering, ¡°This feeling of overwhelming power¡­is incredibly familiar.¡±

    ¡®The trial taker¡¯s first transitional evolution is nowplete.¡¯

    ¡®The trial taker¡¯s new existence level is of the Pseudo-Animate existence level.¡¯

    ¡®The trial taker¡¯s new species is¡­¡¯

    ¡®Lucus Animus ¡ª Magna Sanguis Imperatio (Rare).¡¯

    ¡ª¡ª¨C

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    Hope to see you there!

 Chapter 297: Myriad Calamity Shower

    Chapter 297: Myriad Cmity Shower

    ¡°Is that¡­me?¡± Herellia was left at a loss for words as her sense of vision was fixated on the puddle of red viscous fluid under her. Just a while ago, her appearance was that of a branch that was used to bash an Animate¡¯s head inward. But now, her appearance was a far cry from what it was before, which was that of an exquisitely chiseled sculpture of a beautiful woman covered in a red robe. If the surface of her skin was of a different color, others would surely think that she was a real Animate woman!

    Taking in a few deep breaths to calm herself down from the excitement she felt, she eventually closed her sense of vision, allowing her to sense the changes on her body that was brought about by the lightning from a while ago. The first change that she hastily took notice of was the amount of power coursing throughout the body. If one were to consider her previous amount of power to be asrge as a small light bulb, then the amount of power in her body right now was that of a nuclear reactor! Not to mention, she felt that she could think more things at once every second, prompting her to wonder as to how many crimson thorns she could create before reaching the limit.

    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!

    In an instant, the robe covering her body, which used to be the crimson veins that covered her body previously, soon had parts of it transform into a great number of crimson tendrils. Soon after, these tendrils were then transformed into ten crimson thorns, leaving Herellia at a loss for words as she felt that her mind had not reached its limit yet.

    And with that, she continued to conjure more and more crimson tendrils beforebining them into crimson thorns, increasing the number of thorns that circled her body as she gradually looked more and more like a crimson cactus. Eventually, she had reached the limit of what her mind could endure before losing a great portion of her rationality. In total, she had created 144 crimson thorns, all of which exuded a level of destructive intent far more potent than before.

    Aftering to terms with her new limit, Herellia could not help but wonder as to how much of a boost [Amaranthine Release] would give once she sacrificed all of the crimson thorns surrounding her right now. Fortunately, the logical side of her mind told her that saving the skill for ater time was better as there was no point in using the skill while the dark clouds hadn¡¯t made a move yet. With the thought of the dark clouds in her mind, she then went ahead and tilted her head to focus her vision on the dark clouds, only to notice something weird was happening.

    ¡°Eh¡­the new lightning bolts are being absorbed by the purple lightning,¡± Herellia muttered to herself as she subconsciously manipted the thorns closer to her robe, making it look like she was wearing a robe adorned with crimson thorns. Nevertheless, most of her attention was fixated on the dark clouds wherein a surprising change was urring.

    At this moment, after the new type of lightning had finished their job of allowing Herellia to partially ascend to a higher level of existence, the iridescent lightning bolts then went ahead and spread throughout the area upied by the dark clouds, splitting off intorge chunks. Soon after, theserge chunks of iridescent lightning bolts were then swarmed by thevender lightning bolts without hesitation, absorbing the intent of life and nourishment emanated by them.

    While looking at the current situation, Herellia thought that thevender lightning bolts would get weaker as the intent radiated by the iridescent lightning bolts was a pr opposite to the intent emanated by thevender lightning bolts. Unfortunately for her, rather than bing weaker, the destructive intent of thevender lightning bolts instead grew stronger as they absorbed the iridescent lightning bolts. In less than a minute, the collective destructive intent of thevender lightning bolts had be ten times more intense than before.

    Just as Herellia was pondering on what she should do in preparation for the next round of lightning bolts that came down, Argentum and Horell had finallye back to reality, their senses of vision now focused on the situation that was urring within the dark clouds. And just like Herellia, they could not help but feel a sense of dread, with Horell feeling even more dread than Argentum.

    ¡°I shouldn¡¯t have cast that barrier on Herellia,¡± Horell muttered to himself, pinning himself as the reason as to why the difficulty of the subsequent rounds had greatly increased. ¡°Aw man¡­I wanna apologize to Herellia so badly¡­¡±

    ¡°There¡¯s no point moping over what has already happened,¡± Argentum, who was listening to Horell¡¯smentations on the side, could not help but feel that it was grating on his sense of hearing, prompting Horell to stop. In response to Argentum¡¯s words, Horell focused his vision onto Argentum and said, ¡°But it¡¯s true though. The chances of Herellia sumbing to the difficulty of the subsequent rounds have greatly increased.¡±

    ¡°And that¡¯s what you think,¡± Argentum said before focusing his vision onto Herellia, who now had a far greater number of thorns surrounding her body whenpared to before. Letting out a light chuckle filled with a hint of interest as an aura of confidence surrounded him, he then told Horell, ¡°Take a look at Herellia and tell me if her chances of sumbing have increased. Do you think she¡¯d give up that easily?¡±

    Listening to Argentum¡¯s words, Horell turned his head to look at Herellia, only to see that a far stronger aura was emanating out of Herellia at this moment. With such a sight in front of him, Horell could not help butpare the aura Herellia was emanating before to the aura she was emanating right now. In less than a second, he concluded that her chances of sumbing to the difficulty of her Existence Tribtion had stayed the same, or rather¡­decreased.

    It was then that Horell remembered what Argentum told him a while ago, recalling that he was told that Herellia was in the process of evolution. After bing silent for a bit more, he then thought to himself as an aura of slight tion and expectation surrounded him, ¡®It seems that the heavens want to give Herellia a second chance!¡¯

    And with that thought lingering in his mind, his mood had undergone a 180-degree turn, having greater hopes for Herellia¡¯s chances of surviving through the Existence Tribtion as he felt that the power coursing throughout her body was no less than his or Argentum¡¯s. Taking in a deep breath to tone down his excitement, he then turned to look at Argentum and asked him, ¡°So, what should do in order to help Herellia out?¡±

    ¡°For now, let¡¯s remain on standby,¡± Argentum said as he focused his vision back on the dark clouds, noticing that the iridescent lightning bolts had now disappeared. Although he felt like the next trial would be harder than before, he had great confidence that Herellia would be able to pass through most of the second trial without a problem. Unfortunately for him, it seemed that the heavens were just toying with their emotions as a notification sound resounded in his mind.

    Ding!

    ¡®As the trial taker¡¯s strength has greatly improved due to the transitional evolution given, the heavens have decided to adjust the difficulty of the next trial to the trial taker¡¯s current power.¡¯

    ¡®The heavens have decided on the next trial given to the trial taker.¡¯

    ¡®The name of the next trial shall be¡­¡¯

    ¡®Myriad Cmity Shower!¡¯

    Whoosh!

    After reading through the new notifications he had received, Argentum¡¯s aura had turned into that of despair in an instant, wondering what he could do to alleviate the burden that was about to befall Herellia. Noticing that abrupt change in Argentum¡¯s aura, Horell went ahead and asked him, ¡°What¡¯s wrong, Argentum?¡±

    ¡°I have a bad feeling about the next trial,¡± Argentum replied, wondering as to whether he should tell Herellia the next trial that was about toe crashing down on her. In less than a second, the thoughts inside his mind all said the same thing, prompting him to send an energy strand to Herellia, who was still looking at the changes happening in the dark clouds.

    In Argentum¡¯s mind, he thought that Herellia would surely heed his warnings as he was Aurus¡¯s clone. In connection to that thought, he was hoping on the chance that Herellia would pick up the idea that Argentum had a system as well since that would reduce the time needed for Herellia to believe in Argentum¡¯s words.

    ¡°Herellia, can you hear me?¡± Argentum said through the energy strand, prompting Herellia to stop looking at the clouds and focus her vision towards Argentum. Without dy, she replied in a calm and collected tone, ¡°What¡¯s up?¡±

    ¡°I have a feeling that you might not believe me, but¡­¡± Argentum hastily responded to her question as he exined what he had read from the notifications in his system. ¡°The next round you¡¯re about to face is filled with a type of lightning far more dangerous than the purple ones darting through the clouds right now?¡±

    ¡°Eh?¡± Hearing such a piece of important news out of the blue, Herellia could not help but radiate an aura of disbelief as it was just too sudden to her. In response, she could not help but radiate an aura of suspicion as she asked him, ¡°How do you know what the next round is going to be?¡±

    Letting out a sigh that said ¡®I knew this was going to happen¡¯, Argentum decided to not beat around the bush and said in a slightly defeated tone, ¡°Since Aurus has a system, then I have a system as well. I got a message from the system telling me about your next round. If you don¡¯t believe me, just cast the [Eyes of Undeceiving Truth] on me.¡±

    With her sense of hearing focused on Argentum¡¯s words lingering inside her mind, Herellia only took less than an instant to process the information that was said. She could not help but take a few deep breaths as she felt an immense amount of dread from imagining the next round if Argentum¡¯s words were to be the case. Letting out a long yet soft sigh, she then asked Argentum, ¡°So, what do you want me to do in preparation for the next round?¡±

    ¡°You¡¯ve undergone an evolution, right?¡± Argentum asked, his mind working on overdrive as he felt that the changes brought by Herellia¡¯s transitional evolution would allow the subsequent trials to continue staying at the same difficulty, lest the two of them made a move of their own.

    ¡°Yeah, what about it?¡± Herellia replied, only to soon realize what Argentum was trying to imply. Although she was almost a hundred percent sure that the thing Argentum wanted to say was the thing she realized, she wanted to make sure, prompting her to ask him, ¡°You want me to gain a better understanding of the new skills I¡¯ve received?¡±

    ¡°Yes! That¡¯s exactly what I want you to do!¡± Argentum said in a gleeful tone, inwardly letting out a sigh of relief as he felt that Herellia would know what to do while the next trial hasn¡¯t started yet. In response, Herellia lightly nodded before saying, ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll try to familiarize myself with the new skills as much as possible. Do inform me when the next round of lightning boltse crashing down, okay?¡±

    ¡°I definitely will,¡± Argentum said in response to Herellia¡¯s words before cutting off the connection between the two of them. He then focused his sense of vision onto Horell, who was still looking at the dark clouds, and said, ¡°Horell, could you keep an eye on the dark clouds and alert me if there¡¯s a change going on? I need to do something for a bit.¡±

    ¡°Eh? Alright,¡± Horell said in response to Argentum¡¯s request, only to be greeted by an Argentum that had its sense of vision closed while it sat cross-legged on the ground. Letting out a light sigh, Horell then panned his sense of vision back to the dark clouds and muttered to himself, ¡°You could¡¯ve said thank you at the very least.¡±

    Ignorant to what was going on in Horell¡¯s mind, Argentum brought up the spell creation feature of [Sage¡¯s Water Magic] in his mind and focused his vision on the True Water spell portion of the skill. Working his mind to overdrive, he then muttered inwardly, ¡°It¡¯s time for me to put these vacant spell slots to good use.¡±

    And just like that, the three of them were preparing for the next trial in their own ways. Herellia was currently sitting cross-legged on the ground with her sense of vision closed, allowing herself to be more familiar with the new skills she had obtained after evolving to a Pseudo-Animate lifeform. Every once in a while, one would see ribbons of crimson and gold surrounding her body while white energy particles were scattered around her body.

    As for Argentum, his mind was focused on maximizing the usage of the 9 vacant True Water spell slots he hadn¡¯t used yet, deciding to make most of the True Water spells have the purpose of boosting a certain ability to its limit. He also decided to make a few defensive spells with the remaining slots, realizing that he should make a Blessed Water spell leaning towards the defensive aspect of things once Herellia¡¯s existence tribtion was done.

    As for Horell, he continued to look at the dark clouds, taking note of every change that was happening. It was only after about twenty minutes since Argentum told him to keep eye on the dark clouds did a change finally ur, prompting him to alert Argentum that something was happening to the clouds. Fortunately, by that time, Argentum had made sure that all of the True Water spells in his arsenal would help out Herellia one way or another¡­at the cost of a lot of mana being used up for every spell he discarded.

    Lightly stretching his body, Argentum then stood up from where he sat before asking Horell, ¡°So what change happened to the clouds?¡± In response, Horell only pointed towards a certain section of the dark clouds, prompting Argentum to follow the path of Horell¡¯s finger, eventually seeing what he was pointing towards.

    In that certain portion of the dark clouds, thevender bolts of lightning were undergoing the same process as the crimson bolts from before, fusing as one before transforming into a bolt of lightning that radiated an intent of destruction many times intense than before. Thanks to this fusion, a loud rumble resounded throughout the area, shaking every bit of energy that made Argentum and Horell¡¯s body. Fortunately, Herellia was too engrossed in familiarizing herself with her new skills, allowing Argentum to inwardly let out a sigh of relief as the two of them continued to look at the new type of lightning that had emerged.

    Thanks to the Power Baptism he had undergone before, Argentum knew that the next type of lightning bolt after the purple one was a light blue lightning bolt. But whenpared to the Power Baptism version, the current bolt of lightning that had emerged from the dark clouds took on a slightly darker shade, a royal blue lightning bolt. As he thought about the color that perfectly described the color of the current lightning bolt, it was then that he felt that there was something else to the royal blue lightning bolt. Behind the inherent destructive intent of the new lightning bolt, there was also a trace of arrogance brought about by its superior power, as if any lightning bolt or being under it was inferior whenpared to it.

    ¡°So that¡¯s why there¡¯s the word ¡®Cmity¡¯ in the name of the next trial,¡± Argentum muttered to himself as he noticed that the number of royal blue lightning bolts gradually increased. With a long yet soft sigh, he then said¡­

    ¡°The next trial is going to be a cmity alright.¡±

    ¡ª¡ª¨C

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 Chapter 298: Gilded Crimson Rafflesia

    Chapter 298: Gilded Crimson Rafflesia

    Rumble¡­rumble¡­

    As the number of royal blue lightning bolts continued to gradually increase, they upied more and more of the area previously upied by thevender lightning bolts. Concurrent to that, the dark clouds would let out a loud rumble from time to time, bringing forth a wave of destructive intent that was around half as strong as the wave that spread throughout the area when the first royal blue lightning bolt was formed.

    Nevertheless, Argentum and Horell could not help but be on edge with every wave that passed through their body¡­well, mostly Horell. To Argentum, after sensing the arrogance that was inherent in the intent of the royal blue lightning bolts, he could not help but connect the frequent rumbling of the dark clouds to the arrogance of the royal blue lightning bolts. It was as if the lightning bolts were flexing their strength towards the trio.

    Fortunately, the frequent rumbling did not interrupt Herellia from familiarizing herself more and more with the new skills she had obtained from the evolution she had undergone. At this point, around 45 minutes had passed since Herellia had undergone her evolution, with the intent emanating from her now being a bit more subdued whenpared to her aura after evolving. Then again, if one entered her aura, they would feel that the aura was more powerful than before, as if she had gained understanding in a new area of knowledge.

    Bzzt¡­bzzt¡­

    Eventually, all of thevender lightning bolts had been converted into royal blue lightning bolts, with the loud rumbling resounding throughout the dark clouds now continuous. Noticing that some of the royal blue lightning bolts were heading towards certain spots on the area upied by the dark clouds, as well as the fact that the rumbling brought forth by the dark clouds gradually became stronger and stronger, Argentum could not help but mutter to himself, ¡°It seems that the first round of lightning bolts are about toe crashing down.¡±

    Crash!

    Coincidentally, just as Argentum had finished saying those words, the first round of royal blue lightning bolts finally pierced through the dark clouds and came down, their target naturally being Herellia. The number of lightning bolts in this round was the same number of lightning bolts that attacked Herellia in the final round of the first trial, which was 100. But due to the destructive intent and power inherent in each royal blue lightning bolt, Horell could not help but look at Argentum and ask him in a slightly panicked tone, ¡°Why isn¡¯t Herellia doing anything? The bolts are getting closer to her!¡±

    In response, Argentum maintained silence, making Horell think that Argentum was deliberately ignoring his words of concern, prompting to radiate an aura of slight fury. Soon after, Horell went ahead and started to curse Argentum for not helping Herellia out. At first, the words used by Horell were curses at the level of what an Animate toddler would say, but in just a few seconds, the words used were on a level used by experts in the industry of cursing beings out.

    Of course, Argentum ignored Horell¡¯s curses at him as he focused his enhanced senses towards the royal blue lightning bolts. Although he wanted to alert Herellia that the bolts were about toe close to her, he went ahead and sensed the aura radiating from Herellia, giving off the feeling that it was not the best time for her to be woken up yet. And so, Argentum waited¡­and waited¡­and waited¡­until the time for him to wait finally came to an end.

    At this point, the cursesing out of Horell were nonstop as his eyes were glued to the royal blue lightning bolts that were scarily close to Herellia¡¯s body. If one looked closely, only a few meters separated the 100 Cmity-level bolts from Herellia¡¯s body. Although the trajectory of the 100 bolts was scattered throughout the area, most of them would still hit Herellia, and Horell didn¡¯t want to happen.

    Fortunately, Argentum felt like it was the right time for him to wake Herellia up, prompting him to send an energy strand towards her and say, ¡°Herellia, the first round of bolts have alreadye.¡±

    ¡°They¡¯re only a few meters away from your body, so dodge them first before attacking.¡±

    It took less than an instant for a reply toe back from Herellia, resounding throughout Argentum¡¯s mind as she said, ¡°I see. You alerted me at the right time. Did you take my time toprehend the skills into consideration?¡±

    In response, Argentum let out a light chuckle as he said, ¡°Who knows? Anyways, good luck.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll need it,¡± Herellia hastily replied before opening her sense of vision to the sight of a great number of royal blue lightning bolts soon colliding with her body. If it was the previous Herellia, she would not have any way to dodge these bolts at such a distance, unless she had help from Argentum and Horell in the form of movement speed boosting buffs. Fortunately, this time, her evolution gave her a few skills that allowed her to be more versatile.

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    While continuing to look at the lightning bolts, she willed all of the crimson thorns she had made a while ago to strike the ground in front of her in unison, making sure that all of them would hit at full power.

    Bang!

    Thanks to that, a crater was formed in front of Herellia while she had used the force from the unified strike to fling herself away from the vicinity of the royal blue lightning bolts, utilizing some of the crimson thorns to anchor herself as she did not want to distance herself that much from the lightning bolts. At the very instant shended slightly far away from the lightning bolts, the 100 bolts struck the ground and brought forth a strong quake that spread throughout the area of the Existence Tribtion, prompting Horell to activate a levitation spell while Argentum activated the levitation spell he recently made through [Sage¡¯s Water Magic].

    ¡°Good thing I saved a slot for levitation magic,¡± Argentum said to himself as water continuously jetted out of the bottom of his feet, making it look like he was still connected to the ground through water.

    While the Cmity-level bolts had struck the ground, Herellia did not waste her time as she conjured a great number of crimson tendrils through her robe before manipting them to wrap around the 144 crimson thorns surrounding her body. Gradually, the shapes of the crimson thorns changed, transforming into long and pointed spears that looked like the fangs of a wolf. On top of that, the power exuded by each crimson spear was greatly increased, making Herellia feel satisfied as she muttered to herself, ¡°This new skill is quite great. If I had this back then, I would have been able to clear the previous round without a problem.¡±

    ¡°Then again, there¡¯s no point mulling over the past,¡± Herellia said not long after as the royal blue lightning bolts removed themselves from the ground before hastily finding where she was, heading towards her way. With a light chuckle, she then shouted, ¡°[Sanguis Monarchia: Crimson Spear Brigade]!¡±

    ¡°Charge!¡±

    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!

    Due to the shape of their tips, after being propelled towards the Cmity-level bolts by Herellia¡¯s energy, the crimson spears headed towards the bolts at a speed far faster than before, as if they were snakes adamant on catching their prey. As for the royal blue lightning bolts, seeing that the trial taker was now retaliating against them, they felt like their names were being sullied, prompting them to head towards the crimson spears as a collective group.

    From afar, Argentum could not help but notice that the royal blue lightning bolts decided to bunch up and charge towards Herellia¡¯s attack collectively, eliciting a light sigh from him as he recalled what he knew about Cmity-level lightning bolts. ¡°Although Ruined and Forsaken Lightning both have a decent level of self-awareness, only when it reaches the Cmity level does it undergo a qualitative change, turning into bolts that would not hesitate to use basic strategies to smite the trial taker down.¡±

    Surprisingly, he let out a light chuckle as he focused his vision on the crimson spears Herellia brought forth to retaliate against the lightning bolts. He then said, ¡°Too bad they¡¯re fighting against a leader that knows a lot more strategies than them.¡±

    Whoosh!

    Just as the crimson spears and the lightning bolts were about to collide, the crimson spears abruptly split apart, stupefying the lightning bolts in ce as they pondered on what to do next. But just as they decided that they would ignore the crimson spears and head towards Herellia¡­the crimson spears appeared behind their backs, piercing through them at full power!

    In an instant, the 100 royal blue lightning bolts that were supposed to collide with Herellia had transformed into royal blue strands of energy that made their way towards Herellia, enhancing the amount of power that coursed throughout her body. To her surprise, the increment in power brought about by the royal blue strands was equivalent to the increment brought by the purple strands from thest round¡­and the increment from that was equivalent to the increment brought by the first nine rounds of thest trialbined!

    Taking in a deep breath to calm her excitement over the increment in power brought by the royal blue strands, she recalled all of the crimson spears back to her robe, waiting for the next round of lightning bolts toe. As for Argentum and Horell, the both of them could not help but radiate auras of glee and satisfaction after seeing what Herellia had done, with Horell radiating more of it as he saw Herellia finally retaliate against the lightning bolts. Wondering why she only moved at the veryst second, he could not help but wonder if it had something to do with Argentum¡­only to remember the incessant amounts of cursing he had done before.

    Although he wanted to apologize that he cursed Argentum out, seeing as Argentum was not talking about it at all, Horell decided to keep silent and ce the thought at the back of his head before turning his head to look back at Herellia.

    ¡­

    After the first round of lightning bolts brought about by the trial entitled ¡®Myriad Cmity Shower¡¯, the subsequent rounds of lightning rounds were still manageable for Herellia to dispel, although the increment in the number of lightning bolts was far more terrifying whenpared to thest trial. In the second round, she was greeted by 200 Cmity-level bolts while she was greeted by 300 lightning bolts on the third.

    Naturally, she was greeted by 400 lightning bolts on the fourth and 500 lightning bolts on the fifth. Fortunately, thanks to the offense boosting skills she had before the evolution, as well as the offense boosting skills she had obtained after the evolution, she was able to dispel all of those bolts with rtive ease, relying on the speed and power of the crimson spears.

    Taking in a few deep breaths as she pondered on how she would be able to withstand against an additional 100 lightning bolts in the next round, she recalled the extended crimson spears and utilized a bit of her energy to make sure that their tips would stay sharp.

    Bzzt¡­crash!

    Just as she was about to be finished on pondering over her next n of action, the sixth round of lightning bolts finally came crashing down, bringing forth 600 Cmity-level lightning bolts, which all aimed to smite Herellia down. This time though, the 600 bolts were split into four areas, having 150 lightning bolts each. Seeing that they were split into quarters, Herellia used their formation to her advantage as she split the 144 crimson spears surrounding her into two 72 crimson spear formations, heading towards two of the quarters without hesitation.

    ¡°[Sanguis Monarchia: Crimson Assault]!¡±

    Whoosh!

    Just as the crimson spear formations were about to collide with the respective lightning bolt formations they were up against, Herellia hastily imbued both of these formations with arge amount of energy, allowing a golden sheen to exude from their tips as they moved back and forth at great speeds, dispelling a single bolt with every pierce the spears made.

    Eventually, the two lightning bolt formations Herellia aimed for were dispelled, prompting the remaining two lightning bolt formations to stop in their tracks as it seemed that they were pondering over their next n of action. As for Herellia, she decided to recall all of the crimson spears she sent out while maintaining the golden sheen surrounding their tips.

    ¡°I wonder what¡¯s going to happen next?¡± Herellia could not help but wonder to herself as she soon saw the remaining bolts split up into multiple smaller groups before positioning themselves in a circr formation with Herellia as the center. Feeling that the current formation of the lightning bolts was a bit peculiar, Herellia decided to wait and see what the lightning bolts were going to do next, only for a bunch of lightning bolts to head towards her way soon after.

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    In retaliation, Herellia sent all of her crimson spears towards the bunch of lightning bolts that came down. Unfortunately, just as it seemed that the crimson spears were about to collide with them, the lightning bolts turned around at thest minute and headed back to their original positions. Soon after, another group of lightning bolts came down to smite Herellia, only for the same thing to happen.

    After that, it continued for quite a while, with Herellia chasing the lightning bolts with her crimson spears, only for it to end up in failure as they headed back to their original positions. At this point, Herellia could not help but feel that the lightning bolts were now toying with her, wanting her to get used to their patterns to give them an opening.

    With that in mind, she decided to use one of the skills she had learned from the evolution. Unfortunately, before she could do so, a familiar voice resounded in her mind.

    ¡°Hey, Herellia. Do you need me to boost your attack speed so you can hit those lightning bolts?¡± This familiar voice came from none other than Argentum, who could not help but feel the same thing Herellia was feeling as he looked at what was currently happening. Surprisingly, rather than ept his offer, Herellia let out a light chuckle before saying, ¡°Thanks, but no thanks. The difficulty of the next rounds would be harder because of that, right?¡±

    She then added, ¡°Fortunately, after the evolution, I now have a few more tricks up my sleeve.¡±

    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!

    After cutting the connection between her and Argentum, she then willed the crimson spears on her robe to head towards various directions outward. A few secondster, these crimson spears then started to rotate around Herellia as they gradually fused together, reducing the number of crimson spears that Herellia had connected to her robe. Surprisingly, the lightning bolts did not make their move as they were curious as to what Herellia was doing.

    Eventually, the crimson spears stopped spinning around her as the number of crimson spears left was only five. Nevertheless, the size of each crimson spear made it look like they were petals instead of spear tips. Seeing the current appearance of the spears, Herellia took in a deep breath before infusing all of the five crimson petals with a great amount of her energy. In less than an instant, the crimson petals started to radiate a golden glow as it gradually intensified.

    Just as the lightning bolts realized what Herellia was doing, Herellia¡¯s preparations were already done as the intensity of the petals¡¯ glow had reached its limit. Soon after, fiverge beams were shot towards the lightning bolts that circled over her, dispelling them in an instant as she shouted¡­

    ¡°[Sanguis Monarchia]¡­¡±

    ¡°[Gilded Crimson Rafflesia]!¡±

    ¡ª¡ª¨C

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 Chapter 299: Lightning Bolt Bombardment

    Chapter 299: Lightning Bolt Bombardment

    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!

    Thanks to therge golden beams formed by Herellia¡¯s [Gilded Crimson Rafflesia], the royal blue lightning bolts, which were previously taunting her and mocking her for not having enough range to deal with them, were now dispelled in an instant thanks to the sheer power hidden beneath the beams. Of course, this was Herellia¡¯s first time in using the skill, so her first shot of the beams towards the bolts were still not that urate. Fortunately though, the number of royal blue lightning bolts she was able to disperse, even with her inurate shot, was still over half, shocking the remaining bolts frozen.

    Taking their current states as a chance for her to dispel all of them in one go, Herellia took in a deep breath as she infused her energy towards the crimson petals once more, gradually intensifying the golden sheen on their surface. Just as the remaining bolts realized what Herellia was doing, another wave of beams was fired towards them, with Herellia making sure that all of the bolts would be hit by the beams.

    And with that, the sixth round of royal blue lightning bolts was dispersed in the most tyrannical manner Herellia has shown so far, eliciting Herellia to let out a light chuckle as she muttered to herself, ¡°Using this tactic ain¡¯t half bad.¡±

    After saying those words, she then nced at the dark clouds, estimating in her mind as to how long it would take for the seventh round of lightning bolts to arrive. While doing so, she allocated most of her attention to the experience she felt while activating and maneuvering [Gilded Crimson Rafflesia] for the first time.

    Although she familiarized herself with the skill multiple times in her mind, a theoretical understanding of the skill did not give her that much of an advantage whenpared to a practical understanding. Closing her sense of vision while her other senses were on high alert for the next round, she went ahead and tried to understand the skill even more, wondering if she could utilize the skill in other ways.

    On the other hand, Argentum and Horell could not help but radiate an aura of awe and delight from the showcase of power Herellia did a while ago. To them, they thought that Herellia had reached the limits of what her evolution had given her. They were ready to go ahead and help Herellia out in the form of buffs, but after Argentum asked Herellia if she needed buffs, hearing her decline made Argentum realize that she was saving quite a few things from the evolution she had undergone.

    ¡°What a huge increase in power,¡± Argentum muttered to himself as hepared the destructiveness of Herellia¡¯s crimson spear to her current crimson petals. If one were to factor in the flexibility and maneuverability of the skill to fit a situation, then it would be a given for the former to be chosen. But if it was pure destruction¡­

    Then thetter would win hands down.

    ¡°It seems that we won¡¯t have to buff Herellia up for a while,¡± Argentum said as his aura turned into that of slight glee, focusing his sense of vision towards Horell, only to see that Horell was radiating a slightly somber aura. Wanting to know the reason why Horell was like that, he went ahead and asked him, ¡°What¡¯s wrong? Did something happen?¡±

    In response, Horell let out a sigh as he shook his head. He then responded, ¡°Nothing bad happened. It¡¯s just that¡­I feel useless.¡±

    ¡°Useless? In what way?¡± Argentum replied to Horell¡¯s statement with a question. Concurrently, he could not help but think that Horell secretly had a weak mindset. Although it looked like he was always calm,posed, and cheery when interacting with others in the alliance, Argentum finally realized right now that it was more or less a facade that shrouded his true personality. Nevertheless, he would not say this to Horell outright, in fear of hurting his feelings.

    Answering Argentum¡¯s question, Horell replied, ¡°Since Herellia has undergone an evolution, that means that her power has increased. Although that means that the number of buffs we cast on her is decreased, which in turn reduces the overall difficulty of the subsequent rounds, I can¡¯t help but feel useless that I haven¡¯t helped her out.¡±

    Listening to Horell¡¯s words, Argentum could not help but scratch his head as he did not know how to respond to such a statement. While doing so, he pondered on what he could say to alleviate Horell¡¯s feeling of uselessness, only for a thought from quite some time ago to surface in his mind. With that in mind, Argentum went closer and patted Horell on the shoulder before saying, ¡°You won¡¯t be useless for long. Well, to be more exact, we won¡¯t be useless for long. Our time to help Herellia out will eventuallye.¡±

    Horell radiated a confused expression as he listened to Argentum¡¯s words, wondering where he pulled such a statement. In response, Argentum let out a light chuckle as he said in a slightly mysterious manner, ¡°You¡¯ll see what I mean eventually.¡±

    After that, the two of them focused their senses of vision back to where Herellia was, who was already finished digesting the experience she had obtained from using [Gilded Crimson Rafflesia] a while ago. Right now, she felt like she could now use the skill in more ways than before, wanting to test out her new ideas on the seventh round of lightning bolts.

    Surprisingly, it seemed that the heavens sensed Herellia¡¯s yearning to test her new ideas out as the seventh round of lightning bolts came crashing down from the dark clouds as 700 Cmity-level bolts were now out to get Herellia. This time, the lightning bolts were split into seven groups of 100, making Herellia let out a light chuckle as she utilized her movement skill to hover in midair, wanting to take the initiative.

    She then leaned forward to tilt the trajectory of the beams towards the lightning bolts as she found out that the petals could only rotate around her and not behind her. After feeling that her angle was suitable enough for the beams to hit the lightning bolts head-on, she then infused her energy into the petals as she simultaneously manipted them to tilt forward or backward, depending on the location of the lightning bolt group she was trying to hit. Naturally, what came after that¡­was pure destruction.

    Bang! Bang! Bang!

    Since the five beams from the crimson petals were now separated to target five different lightning bolt groups, the true power of [Gilded Crimson Rafflesia] was finally revealed, dispelling those five groups just as the beams had collided with them. Seeing that the five lightning bolt groups she had targeted were dispelled with only a single beam aimed towards them, Herellia now had a better idea of how destructive her skill was, redirecting the petals once more to dispel the remaining two lightning bolt groups.

    And just like that, the next few rounds of lightning bolts seemed to be smooth-sailing for Herellia as she became more and more familiar with how she could manipte [Gilded Crimson Rafflesia] to suit her lightning bolt dispelling needs.

    Once the eighth round of lightning bolts came, Herellia decided to experiment with the skill and tried to cast another [Gilded Crimson Rafflesia], only to stop at three out of five petals for the second rafflesia as she wanted to get a better feeling of the burden brought about by a second rafflesia. Other than that, she was able to dispel the 800 lightning bolts brought by the eighth round in one go thanks to the three additional petals.

    Not long after, the ninth round of lightning bolts passed through the dark clouds to smite Herellia down, bringing along 900 Cmity-level bolts eager to be the one to destroy Herellia¡¯s hopes of clearing her Existence Tribtion. As for Herellia, she went ahead and formed the remaining two petals needed for the second rafflesia. Surprisingly, forming the full rafflesia increased the burden she felt on her mind to a great degree, though it was still in the realms of what she could endure.

    Naturally, just like the eighth round, the ninth round of lightning bolts was wiped out without a problem with the addition of two crimson petals. After she was finished dispelling the bolts as they turned into royal blue strands that enhanced the strength of her body, she could not help but look at the two groups of five crimson petals that revolved around her. Manipting the crimson petals to move, she decided tobine the two groups of five into oneyer of ten crimson petals, feeling that it was better to look at, as well as simpler to manipte.

    Eventually, the tenth round of lightning bolts came to strike Herellia down¡­only for them to be instantly dispelled as the number of petals surrounding her was enough to destroy the 1,000 lightning bolts brought by the dark clouds. With such a situation like this happening, Herellia could not help but feel that her current strength was alien to her, muttering to herself, ¡°Would a single evolution really result in a significant change in power?¡±

    What Herellia did not know was that, the evolution she had undergone did not only change her appearance and species, but it had also changed her existence level. In other words, since she had evolved into a Pseudo-Animate lifeform, the amount of damage she was dealing was at least a thousand times greater than before!

    Sadly, she never thought about it as she felt that she had just undergone a usual evolution of species. Nevertheless, she let out a sigh of relief as she had counted in her mind that she had survived ten rounds of lightning bolts. To her, that meant that the dark clouds would remain dormant for a bit to give her some time to rest and recuperate her losses. Since she did not lose that much stuff from the lightning bolts other than her energy, she decided to sit cross-legged on the ground and ponder over the experiences she had obtained from controlling [Gilded Crimson Rafflesia], wondering if it was possible for her to use [Gilden Crimson Rafflesia] and [Crimson Spear Brigade] in tandem.

    On the other hand, Argentum and Horell looked at the current situation of the dark clouds with differing reactions. Seeing that the dark clouds had be dormant, Horell let out a sigh of relief as that meant that Herellia would be able to digest thebat experience she had obtained from the previous rounds and turn into her own strength. Just as he was about to persuade Argentum to rx with him, he noticed that an aura of contemtion was surrounding him, prompting him to ask Argentum, ¡°What are you thinking about, Argentum?¡±

    ¡°It feels off,¡± Argentum said sinctly, to which Horell replied, ¡°What feels off?¡±

    ¡°The dark clouds,¡± Argentum replied before adding, ¡°They¡¯ve gone dormant.¡±

    ¡°Isn¡¯t that a good thing?¡± Horell looked at the clouds for a bit before responding. ¡°That means that Herellia could rest for a bit and enhance her understanding of her abilities.¡±

    ¡°Well, there¡¯s nothing wrong with being optimistic,¡± Argentum went silent for a bit before saying, letting out a soft sigh as he had a hunch that the dormancy of the dark clouds was just a lead-up to something worse. Although the tenth round of lightning bolts was already cleared by Herellia, the system did not notify him that the trial was over, leading him to think that there was still a bit more to this trial than he had thought.

    ¡°Although it would be great if the dormancy is really a time for her to rest,¡± Argentum said after a while, only to add, ¡°But if we always think of the dormancy that way, that would be incredibly bad.¡±

    ¡°So¡­what are you trying to tell me?¡± Although Horell was listening to Argentum¡¯s exnation, he could not wrap his head around the situation, prompting him to ask this question.

    With a slightly grave tone, Argentum responded, ¡°Herellia might need to face another round of lightning bolts.¡±

    Rumble¡­

    As if the heavens were telling Argentum that his hunch was correct, the dark clouds let out a rumble far louder than any of the previous rumbles from before, even jolting Herellia awake from her session of improving herprehension. Hastily standing up to look at the dark clouds, Herellia noticed that whenpared to thest round of lightning bolts, wherein a few spots on the dark clouds would glow brightly, a great number of spots were now glowing brightly this time. This sight could not help but make Herellia mutter, ¡°I have a bad feeling about this.¡±

    Bzzt¡­crash!

    Soon after, the next round of lightning bolts was finally revealed to Herellia, not only leaving her at a loss for words, but Argentum and Horell as well. The two of them hastily went ahead and used all of their investigation skills and spells to count the number of lightning bolts that were about to strike Herellia down, making them feel immense despair not long after as Horell said in a stutter, ¡°Four¡­thousand¡­¡±

    ¡°4,000 Cmity-level bolts,¡± Argentum muttered to himself as he watched the lightning bolts cover the sky in a bluish glow.

    ¡°Man¡­¡±

    ¡°I should really stop jinxing stuff.¡±

    ¡ª¡ª¨C

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    Hope to see you there!

 Chapter 300: The True Power of Buffs

    Chapter 300: The True Power of Buffs

    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!

    In less than an instant, four thousand royal blue lightning bolts came down from the dark clouds, briefly lighting up the dark sky for a few seconds. Not long after, these bolts went ahead and decided to separate into groups, only for them to recall what had happened when they clumped up into groups. Surprisingly, rather than split up into individual bolts to reduce the chances of multiple of them being hit by the beams that dispelled their previous brethren, they decided to continue with the group idea, moving closer to one another.

    And just like that, 40 incredibly dense bolts, each of which was made up of 100 Cmity-level lightning bolts, now gradually made their way to where Herellia was, with the intent of striking her down and letting her fail her Existence Tribtion. At this point, Herellia had finally gotten over the initial shock brought about by the sheer number of bolts that came down from the clouds. Infusing her energy into the ten crimson petals surrounding her, Herellia decided to make the first move, lest she wanted to be swallowed up by the hundreds of bolts out to kill her.

    But just as she was about to start hovering and tilt her body to allow the trajectory of the beams to be aimed at the dense bolts, she had a hunch that the destructive effect the beams would have on the lightning bolts would be diminished due to their current formation. Working her mind in overdrive, she soon decided that she was going to fight fire with fire, circting the energy inside her body before forming another crimson rafflesia.

    Unfortunately for her, even the first petal of this third rafflesia was enough for the burden on her mind to increase exponentially, making it seem like the formation of the third rafflesia was going to fail. Thankfully, Herellia was someone who did not give up every possible method under a situation of life and death, prompting her to endure the painful feeling brought by the formation before continuing to form the third rafflesia.

    12¡­14¡­15¡­

    Eventually, the third rafflesia was formed, with Herellia radiating an aura of exhaustion, which was soon reced with confidence and expectation as she took in a deep breath to get used to the increased burden brought by the newly formed rafflesia. She then went ahead and fused the third rafflesia to theyer of petals below it, bringing the total number of petals in ayer revolving around her to 15.

    Naturally, with the third rafflesia now formed, she went ahead and continued with the thing she was about to do before, utilizing her movement skill to hover off the ground and tilt the petals to face the incredibly dense lightning bolts. At this moment, the dense lightning bolts were only around a dozen meters away, with some only being a few meters away from colliding with the ground.

    Without hesitation, she infused all of her energy towards these crimson petals, bringing forth 15 golden beams, which were shot towards 15 dense lightning bolts.

    Bang!

    Being apanied by the sound of explosions going off from the collision of beams and bolts, the first round of golden beams were able to dispel arge portion of lightning bolts. Unfortunately, unlike before where the beams would be able to dispel a single lightning bolt group without a problem, a few dozen lightning bolts remained from the dense lightning bolts that were hit by the beams. In other words, 40 dense bolts were still heading down to strike Herellia down, but 15 of these were less dense than the others.

    Whoosh!

    Just as Herellia was about to fire a second round of beams to dispel the less dense lightning bolts once and for all, she noticed that the amount of energy in her body was not enough for her to do so. With that in mind, she went ahead and utilized the energy to turn around and run away from the dense lightning bolts instead, recalling that the lightning bolts usually swerved around the trees while chasing up to her. This action done by the lightning bolts gave her time to prepare a stronger attack, allowing her to dispel the lightning bolts without asking for help from Argentum.

    But just as she turned her sense of vision around to look at the current position of the lightning bolts¡­

    Boom!

    The dense lightning bolts had finally collided with the ground, bringing forth a quaking of the ground that was far more intense than before. Since Herellia was hovering, she was not affected by it. The same went for Argentum and Horell as well, utilizing their skills and spells to hover off the ground. But even though that was the case, they were still affected by the collision of the bolts with the ground in another way, with all of them radiating auras of shock and surprise.

    Why is that, you may ask?

    That¡¯s because the dense bolts did not swerve around the trees before colliding with the ground, but instead¡­collided with them directly! With the great amount of force behind the lightning bolts, the trunk of multiple trees cracked, eventually falling down a few secondster. This effect was further amplified by the quake, with some of the trees even falling in front of Herellia.

    Of course, she utilized the crimson petals around her to push these falling trunks away from the path she was heading through, wanting to make sure that the lightning bolts were as far as possible from her so she could unleash a stronger attack.

    Naturally, as the lightning bolts birthed by the heavens to be the obstacles hindering Herellia¡¯s dream from being fulfilled, they were not going to let Herellia have her way around them, hastily removing themselves out of the ground, with some removing themselves out of the trees they collided with. Thetter was even surprised that the trees were not burnt from the collision at all, with a crater the only evidence that they had collided.

    Recalling their mission, they discarded these useless thoughts before congregating with the other dense bolts, moving in the direction where Herellia was running.

    On the other hand, Argentum and Horell were looking at the current state of things from afar, looking at each other for a bit before looking back at Herellia and the dense lightning bolts chasing her through their own means. At this moment, both of them could not help but feel that things were going south for Herellia, wondering as to whether or not they were going to tell her to use her trump cards.

    After a while, Argentum let out a sigh, breaking the silence between the two of them. He then looked at Horell and told him, ¡°I think we¡¯re going to have to make a move this time.¡±

    ¡°Eh?¡± Horell uttered as he had not yet processed the words Argentum said to him. After he had done so, the aura radiating from him had undergone an immense change as it was changed with that of immense excitement as he looked at Argentum and asked, ¡°Do you mean¡­?¡±

    ¡°Yeah,¡± Argentum said as he nodded in response to Horell¡¯s question. He then added, ¡°We¡¯re going to have to cast a few buffs on Herellia.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m d to hear that,¡± Horell replied to Argentum¡¯s words with a light chuckle before asking, ¡°So¡­what buffs are we going to ca¡ª¡±

    But just as he was about to finish his question, he remembered that casting buffs would increase the difficulty of the subsequent rounds, bringing him to a crossroads. On one end, he wanted to cast buffs on Herellia so she would be able to survive this perverse bombardment of lightning bolts while giving him a sense of purpose. On the other end, he suppressed the urge to cast buffs as he recalled that thought.

    Pondering on what was the best course of action to take right now, Horell went silent for a bit, only for the aura surrounding him to be solemn and serious. Contrary to the aura surrounding him, he asked Argentum in a slightly unsure tone, ¡°But Argentum, doesn¡¯t that mean that the difficulty of the subsequent rounds would increase thanks to our actions?¡±

    ¡°Of course, that¡¯s a given,¡± Argentum said as his sense of vision was still focused on Herellia¡¯s current condition. At the moment, she would turn her body around to fire at therge swath of dense lightning bolts out to get her, reducing the total number of dense lightning bolts to around 30 or so. Thanks to the help of his enhanced senses, he was able to sense that Herellia was giving it her all to retaliate while maintaining distance from him, not caring as to whether or not her energy was about to run out.

    With that taken into consideration, he felt that it was the best course of action for them to cast a few buffs on Herellia, even taking the increased difficulty of the next rounds as a factor in the decision. Nevertheless, he decided to ask Herellia¡¯s opinion on this rather than make his own decision, prompting him to look at Horell and tell him, ¡°Just so you would feel at ease, I¡¯ll ask Herellia whether to cast her some buffs or not.¡±

    Whoosh!

    Before Horell could reply to his words, Argentum sent out a strand of energy towards Herellia, instantly forming a connection between the two as Argentum asked in a slightly serious tone, ¡°How¡¯s your current situation?¡±

    ¡°To be honest, better than I expected,¡± Herellia replied as she focused all of her attention on running. After a while, she stopped in her tracks before sending out a wave of beams to fight against the dense bolts, dispelling a great number of them. She then continued to run after that before saying, ¡°Then again, I feel like I¡¯m reaching my limit. Although I could use a trump card to turn the tides, I wouldn¡¯t have enough energy to make use of it, so it would be useless.¡±

    ¡°I see,¡± Argentum said in response before the sounds of hemming and hawing resounded in Herellia¡¯s mind. Fortunately, those sounds did notst long as Argentum asked her, ¡°So, would you like us to cast a buff on you?¡±

    Argentum then followed up with another statement, not letting Herellia respond as he continued, ¡°Before you say no, this buff would increase yourbat power to a great extent. I¡¯ve thought about the consequences brought by casting this buff, and I can say with full certainty that the pros outweigh the cons.¡±

    ¡°If you say that¡­then I have no choice, do I?¡± Herellia said not long after in response to Argentum¡¯s words, letting out a light chuckle before adding, ¡°Cast it as fast as possible, I might be swallowed up by the lightning bolts at any second.¡±

    ¡°On it,¡± Argentum responded to Herellia¡¯s words before cutting off the connection between them. Noticing that Argentum was not preupied anymore, Horell went ahead and asked him, ¡°So what did Herellia say?¡±

    With an aura of slight happiness, Argentum replied, ¡°We¡¯re going to cast some buffs.¡±

    ¡°Alright!¡± Horell said with immense glee before asking, ¡°What buff should I cast?¡±

    In response, Argentum went ahead and started to mutter a long incantation as a ball of blue energy gradually manifested over one of his hands. While he was doing so, he turned his head to look at Horell for a bit and said, ¡°Save your buffs for now.¡±

    ¡°For now, this buff I¡¯m casting will allow Herellia to turn the tides without a problem,¡± Argentum added soon after. A few secondster, he stopped chanting incantations as the ball of blue energy hovering over his hands radiated an aura that made one feel like they were going to be reborn if they were basked in it. Not long after, Argentum went ahead and utilized his enhanced vision to locate where Herellia was before flinging it towards her at lightning speeds.

    ¡°[Supreme Aqua Benefica: Selfless Variant]!¡±

    Whoosh!

    Although Argentum did not know if it was due to the spell being a Blessed Water spell or not, the ball of blue energy headed to where Herellia was within a few seconds, with Herellia¡¯s body absorbing the ball of blue energy not long after.

    Swoosh!

    In an instant, the effects of the blue energy ball had shown itself, increasing the gap between Herellia and dense lightning bolts chasing her in an instant as she felt that all of the cells making up her body were in an energized state. Not only that, but she also felt that the amount of energy she could hold at once was greatly increased, which meant that she could fire out more attacks at once before running out.

    Seeing the effects brought about by the ball of blue energy she had absorbed, Herellia instantly thought that this was one of Argentum¡¯s buffs, thinking to herself, ¡®I wonder what hardships Argentum had to go through to obtain such a buff like this?¡¯

    Soon after, she ced the thought at the back of her head as she continued to increase the gap between her and the dense lightning bolts, allowing her energy to recover. Eventually, she stopped running away from the lightning bolts as she felt that the energy in her body was more than enough for her to fire a salvo of golden beams, hovering off the ground to position the petals to face the lightning bolts.

    Swish!

    Not even a secondter, a wave of golden beams was soon fired towards the lightning bolts, thinking that only a few dense lightning bolts would be dispelled from the wave she fired. Contrary to what she had expected, the golden beams instead wiped out a greater amount of dense lightning bolts at once, making Herellia soon realize that this was all due to the buff Argentum cast on her.

    Nevertheless, seeing as a great number of dense lightning bolts were being dispelled with a single round of her golden beams, she gained more confidence in her power as she allowed her aura to be released to its fullest extent. She then fired another salvo of golden beams once she met the energy requirements.

    Swish!

    And just like that, the remaining dense lightning bolts, which had gued Herellia with the feeling of dread and despair a while ago, were dispelled as a great swath of royal blue strands made their way to where Herellia was. After those strands were absorbed by her body, she felt that the power improvement brought by the strands this time around was at least ten times higher than the power improvement brought by thest ten roundsbined.

    While allowing her body to get used to the increase in power, she could not help but recall the feeling brought by the ball of blue energy after it was absorbed by her body. Although it was still activated, it was only at that time did she feel like she had ascended to a higher level of existence, as if the dense lightning bolts chasing her were nothing to her.

    With that in mind, she could not help but ask herself, ¡°Is this the true power of buffs?¡±

    ¡ª¡ª¨C

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 Chapter 301: Blitzkrieg of the Century Abyss

    Chapter 301: Blitzkrieg of the Century Abyss

    With the same question in her mind, she could not help but follow it up with another question, saying, ¡°Where did Argentum get this type of ability?¡±

    While pondering over this question, she wondered if Aurus asked Argentum to obtain this type of skill before he underwent his evolution process. Thinking about it, she could not help but imagine Aurus telling Argentum to obtain it just in case he was the one chosen to help Herellia out in her Existence Tribtion instead of Aurus. Before she went too deep into the rabbit hole of this question, she felt that there was no point in thinking about it any further. She also felt that there was no point asking Argentum about it since he would definitely not tell her, so she let it be.

    Concurrently, just as she was finished thinking over it, her body had now fully limated to the swath of royal blue strands that were absorbed by her body, making her feel that her strength has greatly improved once more. After that, she focused her sense of vision towards the dark clouds, making sure that another round of clouds was not going to head her way any time soon.

    Seeing that the dark clouds had gone to a lull, Herellia let out a sigh of relief as she slowly made her way back to her original position, allowing her health and energy to recover as she allowed herself to get more used to the feeling of the burden that three rafflesias brought. Letting out a long breath at the very moment she arrived at her original position, she took another nce at the dark clouds once more, making sure to be vignt at all times.

    Surprisingly, even though her sense of vision was fixated on the dark clouds for a few minutes, nothing special happened within the clouds whatsoever, making Herellia wonder if the clouds were giving her a chance to recuperate. Looking at the dark clouds for a few more seconds, Herellia eventually let out a sigh as she radiated an aura of nonchnce before closing her sense of vision, deciding to use this time to be more familiar with the skills she had in her arsenal.

    On the other hand, Argentum and Horell were looking at Herellia with auras that could be summed up as general surprise. Horell could not take away his sense of vision from Herellia, noticing that the aura radiating from her, which came from herbat power, was multiple levels above the aura she radiated before. Right now, he felt that if he and the current Herellia were to fight against each other, then she would win ten times out of ten.

    As for Argentum, he looked at Herellia with slight surprise, surprised that the effect of the spell he cast a while ago was more or less simr to the spell it was based on. Of course, its efficacy was slightly lower due to it being created after [Sage¡¯s Water Magic] was evolved to the level of A-grade Mortal, but it was still a strong spell nheless.

    He then took a nce at the dark clouds, wondering if another round of lightning bolts woulde crashing down as he had not obtained a notification from the system yet. With the royal blue lightning bolts remaining dormant inside the dark clouds, Argentum thought that the heavens were just giving Herellia some time to rest and reflect upon thebat experiences she had rued. With that in mind, he decided that it was alright for them to rx their alertness for a bit as nothing wrong would happen any time soon.

    After that, he went ahead and sat down on the ground, stretching his body as he made himselffortable in the cross-legged position. Horell, on the other hand, noticed what Argentum was doing, sensing the change in his aura. He then went ahead and asked him, ¡°Why are you rxing? The tribtion isn¡¯t over, right?¡±

    ¡°Of course, it isn¡¯t,¡± Argentum nonchntly replied as he decided to change some of the True Water spells he made a while ago into other support spells that had a more specific purpose. While opening up the spell creation feature in his mind, he continued, ¡°But the dark clouds became silent, thus it means that the heavens are giving Herellia some time to rest.¡±

    ¡°In other words, the heavens are also giving us time to rest,¡± Argentum added as he looked through the 9 True Water spells he had made, discarding around half of them without hesitation. In response to Argentum¡¯s words, Horell could not help but berate him for not being vignt at all times, only to stop before he could say it as he thought that Argentum was probably the most vignt out of the three.

    Letting out a sigh as he thought that he should be more like Argentum, Horell scratched his head as he sat beside Argentum in silence. At first, the two of them went ahead and did their own things, with Argentum modifying the True Water spells he had in his arsenal, while Horell was attuning himself to the mana in the surroundings. But after a few minutes or so, Horell became sick of attuning his body to the mana, prompting him to focus his sense of vision towards Argentum.

    As he looked at him, he could not help but remember the change he noticed in Herellia¡¯s aura a while ago. It was only at this moment did he realize that such an abrupt change inbat power would only be the result of the buff Argentum sent to her, prompting him to wonder as to what kind of buff it was. Wanting to know what it was, Horell unhesitatingly tapped Argentum on the shoulder and asked him, ¡°Hey, Argentum. What kind of buff did you cast on Herellia?¡±

    Being interrupted by someone while he was preupied with modifying the spells in his arsenal, Argentum could not help but radiate an aura of slight infuriation as he looked at Horell. Although he wanted to somewhat berate Horell for interrupting him while he was busy, he decided not to as he took in a few deep breaths to calm himself down before recalling the words Horell told him while he was preupied.

    He then scratched his head for a bit as he pondered over the words he should use to describe the buff he cast on Herellia. After finding the right string of words, Argentum eventually responded to Horell, saying, ¡°Well, it¡¯s a buff that improves almost every aspect of a being.¡±

    Hearing Argentum¡¯s response, Horell could not help but think that he was joking around with him, prompting him to question Argentum, ¡°You¡¯re kidding, right?¡±

    To which Argentum responded with a shake of his head, ¡°Nope.¡±

    ¡°No?¡± Sensing the serious aura radiating from Argentum at this moment, he turned his vision to where Herellia was, taking a closer look at her current aura. It was then that Horell epted the fact that Herellia¡¯s current aura was due to Argentum¡¯s buff, only to wonder as to why Argentum was still fine right now.

    He knew that in order for a buff of that caliber to be cast, then the one casting the spell should have to sacrifice a great number of resources, may it be energy or catalysts, in order for it to be sessfully cast. But while he was looking at Argentum, there was no change to him whatsoever. The color of the energy making up his body did not change, the aura radiating from him did not change, it was as if the buff Argentum cast was nothing to him at all.

    And so, with that in mind, Horell could not help but ask Argentum, ¡°Uh¡­Argentum. I was just wondering¡­¡±

    ¡°Why didn¡¯t you cast that buff on Herellia at the start of the tribtion?¡±

    In response, Argentum pondered over it for a bit before responding with a calm tone, ¡°If I were to cast it at the start of her tribtion, then the current difficulty of her trials would be way higher than what it is now.¡±

    Following up on Argentum¡¯s response, Horell then asked, ¡°So¡­is that the strongest buff you can cast?¡±

    Although he could not help but wonder why Horell was asking him such a thing, Argentum decided to pay it no heed as he pondered over his choice of words before responding, ¡°In terms of buffs that I can give to others, yes. If I were to talk about every buff I can cast, then the buff I cast a while ago isn¡¯t the strongest.¡±

    ¡°Heh¡­¡± Horell uttered as a response to Argentum¡¯s words, although he was incredibly shocked within, wondering what Aurus had undergone to obtain a clone like this.

    As for Argentum, after finishing his conversation with Horell about buffs, he could not help but be curious as to whether or not the buffs he cast before [Supreme Aqua Benefica: Selfless Variant] were still active on her body. With that, he utilized his enhanced senses to its maximum potential to check if they were still there, only to be left dumbfounded as he found out that only thetest buff he cast was active.

    This gave Argentum immense shock as he pondered as to when the buffs he cast at the start of the tribtion had dissipated. After about three minutes of contemtion, he felt that the evolution Herellia underwent wiped all of the buffs on her body clean, which meant that she more or less tanked the ¡®Myriad Cmity Shower¡¯ without any help from him or Horell at all.

    ¡°To think that her current evolution is incredibly strong,¡± Argentum could not help but mutter inwardly before adding, ¡°And this is just the first transitional evolution that would lead to her final evolution. Her currentbat power is already above Horell¡¯s, even without the buff I cast.¡±

    Predicting the turn of events after this one, Argentum had a hunch that Herellia would have no problem clearing the Existence Tribtion, taking the possible improvements in power her next transitional evolutions would give her. But then, just as he felt that the current situation was quite positive, a notification sound resounded in his mind, reminding him that trials like these were not consistent. Without dy, he went ahead and opened up the notification screen in his mind as the aura surrounding him had turned into that of slight dread.

    Ding!

    ¡®The trial taker has sessfully passed through the second trial given by the heavens with flying colors. In response to this amazing achievement, the heavens have decided to give the trial taker a chance to improve the transitional evolution they would undergo¡­through a trial!¡¯

    ¡®Adjusting the difficulty of the trial to the trial taker¡¯s strength, as well as the interferences made along the way¡­¡¯

    ¡®The heavens have decided that the bonus trial the trial taker is going to undergo shall be¡­¡¯

    ¡®The Blitzkrieg of the Century Abyss!¡¯

    ¡°Ah, shit,¡± Argentum could not help but curse inwardly as he read thest line of notifications he had received, wondering if the heavens were mocking him for what he was thinking a while ago. Seeing that the purpose of the trial was to improve the transitional evolution Herellia was going to obtain, then it meant that he and Horell had to do what they could to make sure that she would clear this trial.

    ¡°Abyss-level lightning¡­¡± Although it was within Argentum¡¯s expectations that Herellia was going to sh against Abyss-level lightning, he did not expect these lightning bolts toe so soon. He recalled that their destructive power was multiple levels above the Cmity-level bolts Herellia was facing a while ago. To give a roughparison, if a single Cmity-level bolt and a single Abyss-level bolt were to hit a tree, the former would crack the trunk of the tree, while thetter¡­would turn it into ashes.

    Ding!

    Just as Argentum thought that the system was finished notifying him about the next move the heavens were going to do to Herellia, another notification sound resounded in his mind. This prompted him to think that there was more to it than he initially thought. Like before, he unhesitatingly opened the notification screen inside his mind, radiating a brief aura of excitement as he read the first few notifications he had received.

    ¡®As this trial is not a trial meant for the trial taker¡¯s tribtion, the heavens have decided to give the trial taker a tip to surviving this next trial.¡¯

    ¡®Unfortunately, the trial taker is preupied with another task, thus the heavens have decided to send the tip to the user instead.¡¯

    ¡®The heavens say: ¡°Focus on the defensive in this trial. Although the trial taker would not die when they are touched by the lightning bolt in this trial, their chance to obtain an improved transitional evolution would be gone forever. In other words, it would be harder for the trial taker to survive the next trial meant for their Existence Tribtion.¡±¡®

    ¡°To think that the heavens decided to give Herellia a heads-up on what she should do for the next trial,¡± Argentum muttered to himself in a slightly gleeful tone, wanting to tell Herellia about the next trial as soon as possible. But then, another notification soon appeared on his screen, making him wonder whether or not the heavens had a grudge on him or something.

    ¡®The heavens have noticed that the user has some powers that are akin to the powers of heaven.¡¯

    ¡®The heavens have decided that the difficulty increase to the trial taker¡¯s subsequent rounds would be far greater if the user directly interfered. The heavens are warning the user to not directly interfere with the trial taker¡¯s tribtions, lest the user wants to see the trial taker disappear from the face of the world.¡¯

    After reading thest few notifications he had received, he then went ahead and closed the notification screen in his mind before taking in a few deep breaths. He then stood up and looked at the dark clouds, noticing that the lightning bolts within the dark clouds were now starting to make a move.

    With a grim tone, he muttered to himself, ¡°So¡­the heavens are threatening me, eh?¡±

    He then let out a chuckle filled with malicious intent as he continued, ¡°Very well, then.¡±

    ¡°If that¡¯s what the heavens tell me to do¡­¡±

    ¡°Then I¡­¡±

    ¡°¡­shall not make a move. Not worth the risk.¡±

    ¡ª¡ª¨C

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 Chapter 302: How to Tank Lightning Bolts

    Chapter 302: How to Tank Lightning Bolts

    ¡°Then again, what do the notifications mean by the heavens sensing that there¡¯s a simr power inside my body?¡± he could not help but mutter to himself not long after in a questioning tone, reading through the notifications he had obtained one more time. He then tried to read between the lines, pondering over each notification he had received before finallying to a usible conclusion a couple of minutester.

    ¡°By simr power, do the heavens mean the system?¡± Coming to this conclusion, he felt that it was the most likely answer, given by the fact that his currentbat power was something that an average Normal-grade Pseudo-Animate wouldn¡¯t be able to reach. He then tried to estimate his currentbat power ording to what he knew about Pseudo-Animates, feeling that he would be able to fight against Pseudo-Animates of the fourth or fifth grade to a standstill.

    After that, he could not help but focus his attention on the line that said that a greater consequence would arise if he directly interfered. With that in mind, he muttered to himself, ¡°What are the chances of me interfering with Herellia¡¯s trial?¡±

    It did not take long for him to obtain an answer, which was more or less unlikely. Even without any buffs applied on her, Herellia was able to unleash a level ofbat power simr to his. Considering the improvement brought about by the first transitional evolution, then the next transitional evolution after this next trial would surely give Herellia a huge boost in power once more, he thought.

    Just as he was about to inform Herellia about what the heavens told him regarding the next trial, Horell went ahead and attracted his attention, noticing that he was now unupied. Although there was a hint of slight fury in the aura surrounding Argentum, Horell ignored it and asked him, ¡°What are you thinking about, Argentum?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m thinking about the next round of lightning, of course,¡± Argentum said in a rather perfunctory manner as he swiftly nced at the dark clouds. He barely noticed that the energy emanating from the royal blue lightning bolts darting throughout the clouds were gradually intensifying. With that observation, he then continued, ¡°And it seems that the next round ising very soon.¡±

    In response, Horell asked Argentum, ¡°Can I help out in anything?¡±

    ¡°So far, it has mostly been you that¡¯s helping Herellia out, and I feel really guilty. I¡¯m also herpanion, so I should help her out as well,¡± he added. While he was listening to this, Argentum could not help but think that there was a stark contrast to the current Horell and the Horell everyone knew in the alliance. Then again, he felt that Horell¡¯s current personality was more lifelike while the one he showed in the alliance was quite stiff.

    Pondering over what Horell could do for a bit, he then remembered the notification he had obtained a while ago regarding consequences when it came to direct interference. As he pondered over it a bit more, he then looked at Horell and responded, ¡°For now, the only thing we can do is wait. That alone is enough for her to understand that we¡¯re helping her out.¡±

    After saying those words, his voice then took on a grave tone as he continued, ¡°But once the next roundes crashing down to smite Herellia, there¡¯s a chance that Herellia might not be able to withstand it. By then, I hope you can respond to that as soon as possible.¡±

    ¡°Got it.¡± Now that he was given something to do, Horell¡¯s aura slightly turned serious as he used all of his senses to their fullest extent. He wanted to make sure that he did not miss even the smallest detail when it came to the next round. On the other hand, Argentum focused his vision onto the dark clouds, waiting for a change to happen to the royal blue lightning bolts after he was alerted.

    Eventually, after around 10 minutes or so, a change did happen. Apanied by a loud explosion sound, the energy emanating from the royal blue lightning bolts intensified to a great degree as they started to fuse into a type of lightning far more destructive than before. At first, these new type of lightning bolts glowed an intense white, but after a while, the glow gradually disappeared, revealing the true appearance of the new lightning bolt.

    From a single nce, one could easily notice that the color that the new lightning bolt took on was quite simr to the royal blue lightning bolt, albeit closer to ck than the previous color. Other than that, everything else was different. The intent of destruction was different, the destructive power was different, and even the feeling it gave off was different.

    Seeing that the next level of lightning bolts was now being made, Argentum could not help but mutter, ¡°The Abyss-level bolts are finally being made. I wonder if Herellia would be able to withstand the bombardment of 100 bolts at this level?¡±

    As he thought about Herellia, he could not help but nce at Herellia¡¯s direction, only to notice that Herellia was currently standing with her sense of vision fully focused at the clouds. After a few seconds, an aura of terror faintly radiated from her, which was soon reced with an aura of determination and tenacity as she knew she had alreadye this far in her tribtion. With that in mind, she then took a look at Horell and Argentum, only to notice that Argentum was looking at her.

    Without hesitation, she sent a strand of energy towards Argentum to connect the two of them up before telling him, ¡°This next round is incredibly dangerous.¡±

    ¡°I know,¡± Argentum said in response to her words before letting out a chuckle. Feeling that the chuckle had a hint of confidence added to it, Herellia could not help but briefly radiate an aura of confusion before asking, ¡°What are youughing about?¡±

    ¡°Well, let¡¯s just say that the heavens gave me a few tips regarding the next round of lightning that¡¯s about to hit you,¡± Argentum responded to her words, to which she replied with a tone of slight tion, ¡°Really?¡±

    ¡°Why would I lie?¡± Argentum said in a slightly cheerful tone before starting to tell her what the notification told him to tell her. After that, he then added, ¡°Just so you know, the next round of lightning consists of 100 dark blue lightning bolts. A single dark blue lightning bolt has the equivalent power of over a hundred royal blue lightning bolts, so you know what would happen if it touched you.¡±

    ¡°But you told me that if I get hit by it, I wouldn¡¯t die, right?¡± Herellia replied with Argentum¡¯s earlier words, to which Argentum responded, ¡°That is indeed the case for this next round, but what about the round after that? The heavens won¡¯t always give me a hint like this, you know.¡±

    ¡°Anyways, are you confident that you would be able to handle the next round of lightning bolts without a problem?¡± he asked soon after, prompting Herellia to remain silent for a bit. After a while, she then radiated an aura of confidence before responding, ¡°Around 80% confident. Although I¡¯ve familiarized myself with the defensive skill I¡¯ve obtained from the evolution, theoretical experience doesn¡¯t beat practical experience. In other words, more or less prepared.¡±

    Listening to Herellia¡¯s response, Argentum then suggested, ¡°Do you want me to cast a buff on you that enhances your defense? In the off-chance you lose focus, a buff like this would definitely help you.¡±

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡± Herellia scratched her head quite a bit as she thought about Argentum¡¯s suggestion. While that was happening, Horell could not help but look at Argentum, only to notice that he was preupied. He then looked at the direction Argentum was looking at, seeing that he was currently looking at Herellia. It did not take long for him to put two and two together, and decided to return to his vignt state.

    And just as Horell returned to his vignt state, Herellia finally came to a conclusion as she nodded while saying, ¡°Alright, then. Cast it on me. I¡¯ll take it as assurance.¡±

    ¡°Okay,¡± Argentum responded as he nodded before muttering the incantation of a True Water spell he had prepared for this tribtion. With his palms extended, a cyan magic circle soon appeared in front of it as he aimed the magic circle towards Herellia. After double-checking that the magic circle would hit Herellia, he then shot it as he muttered, ¡°[Azure Enhancement Verse: Praesidis Vis].¡±

    Whoosh!

    In less than an instant, the cyan magic circle soon arrived at where Herellia was before being absorbed by her body. In a matter of seconds, Herellia felt that the surface of her body was covered in an intangibleyer of energy that seemed to be imprable. As for Argentum, after seeing that the defense enhancing spell he had cast was sessfully applied on Herellia, he then used his enhanced senses to check if [Supreme Aqua Benefica: Selfless Variant] was still active. After making sure that it was still active, he let out a sigh of relief before redirecting his attention to the dark clouds.

    Rumble¡­

    At this moment, a loud rumble resounded throughout the surroundings as more and more royal blue lightning bolts were being fused to turn into dark blue lightning bolts. Unlike before, where the loud rumbling seemed toe from an increase of the lightning bolts¡¯ power, the rumble that had resounded seemed to have an intent to it. Using his enhanced senses to sense the hidden intent behind the loud rumble, Argentum let out an awkward chuckle as he muttered to himself, ¡°The dark blue lightning bolts wanted to obtain our attention? Can these things still be considered lightning bolts?¡±

    cing this thought at the back of his head, he then continued to look at the progress of the transformation of the lightning bolts. By the time around an hour has passed, all of the lightning bolts darting throughout the dark clouds were now dark blue in hue. Coincidentally, it was also at this time that a loud rumble resounded throughout the surroundings once more, but this time, the intent was different.

    Sensing the intent from the rumble, Argentum hastily sent a strand of energy to Herellia to connect the two of them before shouting, ¡°Prepare your defensive skill! The next round of lightning ising!¡±

    Whoosh!

    Without dy, Herellia went ahead and circted all of the energy coursing throughout her body as she went ahead and channeled this energy towards her robe. Soon after, hundreds of crimson red tendrils were soon conjured from the robe before making their way towards the 15 crimson petals that surrounded Herellia.

    Swish! Swish! Swish!

    Apanied by the faint sounds of wind, the crimson red tendrils covered the crimson petals, increasing the thickness of each petal within a matter of seconds. While this was happening, Herellia decided to spare a nce at the dark clouds, noticing that around 10 spots on the dark clouds were glowing a bit more intensely than the other spots. With that in mind, she proceeded to hasten the thickening process of the crimson petals. It was only after around 30 seconds did the thickening process finish, with Herellia now being surrounded with 15 petal-shaped objects that looked more like rocks instead of petals due to their thickness.

    Bzzt¡­crash!

    Just as she was about to activate her defensive skill, the next trial had finally begun, bringing down 100 dark blue lightning bolts that made their way towards Herellia. At first, she thought that she had the time to move towards one of the small lightning bolt groups in order to reduce the burden she would have to face at once. But just as she was about to do so, the ten small lightning bolt groups instantly fused as one, transforming into a dark blue pir made out of lightning bolts that spiraled around one another. With such a sight covering her field of vision, Herellia let out a mocking chuckle as she muttered, ¡°Well¡­this is quite a predicament.¡±

    On the other hand, Argentum could not help but radiate an aura of understanding after seeing the lightning bolt groups bunch up. He then said, ¡°So that¡¯s why there¡¯s the word blitzkrieg.¡±

    After feeling satisfied that the current mechanic of the trial followed the name of the trial to a T, the aura surrounding him was then reced with an aura of slight worry, which was overshadowed by the intense confidence he felt as he looked at what Herellia was currently doing.

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    Not waiting for the dark blue pir toe crashing at her, she then manipted 15 thick petals to rotate above her head as they separated into threeyers made up of 5 petals each. Theyer closest to the dark blue pir was made out of petals that were less thick than theyer below it, while theyer closest to Herellia was made out of the thickest petals. With the threeyers firmly ced above her head, she then sent a great portion of her energy towards the threeyers, allowing them to radiate a golden sheen as she shouted, ¡°[Sanguis Monarchia Variant]¡­¡±

    ¡°[Crimson Gold Pagoda: Trois Fleurs Bouclier]!¡±

    Bang!

    As the threeyers of thick petals radiated an intense golden sheen, the dark blue pir had finally collided with them, pushing the firstyer of thick petals down to collide with the secondyer. Not long after that, the twoyers were then pushed down to collide with the thirdyer, making it look like the threeyers of thick petals was a fancy cake of some sort. While this urred, Herellia could not help but radiate a faint aura of shock as she shouted, ¡°Strong!¡±

    Fortunately, just as it seemed that the finalyer was going to be pushed down to collide with Herellia¡¯s head, the thirdyer maintained its position as it tenaciously withstood the strong force stemming from 100 Abyss-level lightning bolts. Even Herellia was surprised that the thirdyer was holding on while facing against this force. Nevertheless, the current situation was in her favor, prompting her to infuse a bit more of her energy towards the three petalyers. This intensified the golden sheen radiating from the threeyers, and surprisingly, it pushed the dark blue pir quite a bit in the process.

    Wondering if the dark blue pir could be pushed back all the way, she then manipted the three petalyers to gradually move upward. To her shock, her hypothesis was, in fact, correct as the dark blue pir was gradually being pushed back towards the dark clouds. While this was happening, one of the lightning bolts making up the pir would separate from it once in a while before returning to the dark clouds on its own. This phenomenon gradually reduced the burden she faced while she was pushing the pir back to the dark clouds.

    ¡°This is it?¡± Looking at what Herellia was doing, Argentum could not help but radiate an aura of confusion as he felt that this trial was a bit too easy. Not wanting to jinx the next trial, he kept this thought to himself as he pondered over how the current scenario came to be. In the end, his question was left unanswered as the dark blue pir was pushed all the way back to the dark clouds, thus ending the Blitzkrieg of the Century Abyss.

    ¡ª¡ª¨C

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 Chapter 303: The Second Evolution

    Chapter 303: The Second Evolution

    Ding!

    Since the trial was over, then naturally, what came next was a notification resounding within Argentum¡¯s mind. Without hesitation, Argentum opened up the notification screen in his mind, reading through the notifications he had just received while radiating an aura of slight interest. While reading through these notifications, his sense of vision was soon fixated onto a certain string of words, prompting the aura surrounding him to transform to that of curiosity as he muttered to himself, ¡°An enhancement of two grades, huh.¡±

    ¡®The trial taker has sessfully cleared the bonus trial with flying colors!¡¯

    ¡®As the heavens are an entity that does not go back on its word, the heavens have decided to enhance the transitional evolution the trial taker is going to undergo by two grades.¡¯

    ¡®Though the heavens have decided to give the trial taker such a reward, the heavens do not know exactly which path of evolution the trial taker wants to proceed with.¡¯

    ¡®The heavens have decided to ask the trial taker as to what path they would like to embark in evolution.¡¯

    ¡®Obtaining the trial taker¡¯s response¡­¡¯

    ¡®The trial taker¡¯s response has been secured. The heavens are now adjusting the next evolution to the trial taker¡¯s response.¡¯

    After reading through these notifications, Argentum continued to wait for a bit, seeing that thest notification he had received did not feel like it would end there. Unfortunately for him, he had not received a new notification from the system even after a few minutes of waiting, making him inwardly let out a soft sigh as he closed his notification screen.

    He then focused his vision towards Herellia, who was currently reverting the thick petals surrounding her into the crimson petals from before. While this was happening, Horell, who remained vignt all this time, could not help but radiate an aura of despondence as he made his way to where Argentum was. Letting out a slightly loud sigh, which attracted Argentum¡¯s attention, Horell then asked him, ¡°Argentum, didn¡¯t you tell me that Herellia could be in possible danger in the round that just passed?¡±

    In response, Argentum focused his sense of vision onto Horell and replied, ¡°Emphasis on the word ¡®could¡¯. It just so happened that Herellia was able to survive the round that just passed without a problem. Isn¡¯t that a good thing?¡±

    ¡°Well, it is, but¡­¡± As Horell listened to Argentum¡¯s words, he could not help but let out another sigh as he continued, ¡°I feel like I¡¯ve done nothing significant so far to help out Herellia.¡±

    ¡°Whenever you feel that way, remember that you were the one who saved Herellia from death,¡± Argentum told Horell as he noticed that the aura around him had slightly intensified. It was at this moment that he felt that if Horell¡¯s feelings were left ignored, then the help he could offer to Herellia would be less flexible as the coverage of his skills were limited. He then continued, ¡°If it wasn¡¯t for your quick wits back then, then Herellia wouldn¡¯t be standing out there undergoing her second evolution right now.¡±

    At first, Horell could not help but feel warmed that Argentum made him remember what he had done to help Herellia, but then, after hearing thetter portion of his statement, the aura radiating from him was soon reced with shock as he asked Argentum in a shouting manner, ¡°What? She¡¯s evolving again?¡±

    ¡°Yeah.¡± Argentum nodded before saying, ¡°The round that she cleared without a problem just now was pretty much the final trial she had to face before she could evolve a second time.¡±

    ¡°And where did you get this information from?¡± Horell could not help but ask, feeling that it was slightly suspicious that Argentum seemed to always know what to do next. In contrast, he could only wallow in fear as he hoped that hispanion would survive the rounds that came her way.

    Listening to Horell¡¯s question, Argentum knew that it would be stupid for him to say that he got the information from his system, knowing very well that only he and Herellia were the only ones he knew who had a system. Pondering over his answer for a bit, he took a brief nce at Herellia, who was sitting cross-legged as the crimson petals surrounding her slowly circled her body.

    It was this quick look that gave Argentum an idea on what he should say, letting him give off an aura of slight confidence as he replied, ¡°Herellia. Whenever a round of lightning is about toe striking down, she alerts me through energy strands.¡±

    ¡°Well¡­that¡¯s unfair,¡± Horell could not help but say, only to be silent and mull over the reasons why Herellia was contacting Argentum instead of him regarding the next rounds of lightning. It did not take long for him to obtain the answer, prompting him to let out an inward sigh as he asked Argentum, ¡°Is it possible if you could ry the information you get from Herellia to me as well?¡±

    Although Argentum was slightly shocked to hear such a request from Horell, he did not feel that it was an out of topic request under the current circumstances. With a nod, he replied, ¡°Sure. For now though, we won¡¯t obtain any news from her for quite a while. As I¡¯ve said a while ago, she¡¯s about to undergo her second evolution.¡±

    Rumble¡­rumble¡­

    Just as the two had finished their conversation, a loud rumble resounded throughout the clouds. This time though, there was no intent to it, unlike before. Sensing that there was no intent in the rumble, Argentum proceeded to focus his sense of vision towards the dark clouds. He soon noticed that a type of lightning, which formed before, was being formed once more.

    Of course, this type of lightning was none other than the iridescent lightning that struck Herellia quite some time ago, allowing her to undergo what seemed to be an instant evolution. While looking at the iridescent lightning, Argentum could not help but feel that the intent of life and nourishment that surrounded the lightning bolts was amplified by multiple degrees. With this in mind, he wondered if the intent surrounding these iridescent lightning bolts had something to do with the lightning bolts surrounding them.

    On the other hand, Horell was left in a state of awe as he clearly sensed that the intent radiated by the iridescent bolts had intensified to a higher level, making him feel like if he were the one struck by these bolts, then the improvement in power he would get would not be meager. Nevertheless, he knew that he had already undergone an Existence Tribtion. Plus, he was more eager to see how much of an improvement the recipient of the bolts would get.

    Naturally, the recipient of these iridescent bolts would be Herellia, who opened her sense of vision after feeling a familiar intent emanating from the clouds. Once she noticed that the iridescent lightning bolts were being formed in the middle of the dark clouds once more, she went ahead and dispelled all of the crimson petals surrounding her as she stood up. Letting out an aura of slight expectation and tion, she focused her sense of vision directly onto the iridescent lightning bolts before saying, ¡°So this is why I was asked by the heavens sometime ago. It¡¯s because I¡¯m going to undergo another evolution.¡±

    With this in mind, she could not help but redirect her vision for a bit towards Argentum, who was currently looking at the iridescent lightning bolts just like she was a while ago. Sensing the aura of calmness andposure surrounding Argentum, which also had hints of expectation and tion surrounding it, she then questioned herself, ¡°Did Argentum know that I was going to undergo another evolution?¡±

    She then pondered over the question for a bit, eventually concluding that it was highly likely for it to be the case. Not only that, but she also felt that Argentum knew about the trials she was going to undergo, thus allowing him to give the right level of help necessary for her to clear the trials. It was at this moment that Herellia felt that something had changed in the way she looked at Argentum. She did not know in what way her perspective of Argentum had changed, but she did feel that it had indeed changed.

    Bzzt¡­crash!

    Just as she was about to talk with Argentum, the iridescent lightning bolts had finallye crashing down. Knowing what these bolts entailed, Herellia did not resist these iridescent lightning bolts as she allowed these bolts to be absorbed by her body. Coincidentally, a notification appeared in front of her field of vision, something she had never received from the previous swath of iridescent lightning bolts that surrounded her.

    Feeling that there was a reason for such a notification to appear, Herellia unhesitatingly went ahead and read the notification she had received, eventually radiating an aura of understanding as she said, ¡°So that¡¯s how it is.¡±

    With a light chuckle, she then continued, ¡°I guess I should have been more specific, but eh. Toote for regrets.¡±

    Ding!

    ¡®The user is currently undergoing an assisted evolution.¡¯

    ¡®Thanks to the power inherent in the tools helping you out, the species that you shall evolve into has been enhanced.¡¯

    ¡®The species you shall evolve into shall be¡­¡¯

    Ding!

    While this was happening, Argentum had received a notification from the system as well, informing him that Herellia was now undergoing the evolution process. After reading through the notifications he had received, he then took a look at Herellia, noticing that the process of evolution was quite slow whenpared to the first transitional evolution she had received. With that in mind, he slightly pondered over the reasons why it was slower, easily finding the answer as he remembered that the heavens gave Herellia a chance to enhance her evolution.

    ¡°I guess the heavens wanted her to slowly adjust to her improvements in power while she¡¯s undergoing evolution,¡± Argentum muttered to himself with a tone of slight uncertainty before looking at the dark clouds once more. After looking at the clouds, he then focused his sense of vision towards a slightly far-away location before going ahead and casting all of the movement speed boosting buffs he had in his arsenal at himself.

    Noticing that the aura surrounding Argentum had intensified, Horell could not help but look at Argentum and ask, ¡°What are you doing?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m just going to check how much time has passed since Herellia¡¯s tribtion started,¡± Argentum briefly responded to Horell¡¯s question before dashing out to an area that was not covered by the dark clouds. Due to thepounding effects of the movement speed boosting buffs he cast on himself, it only took a few minutes for him to arrive at the area he looked at a while ago. Without dy, he focused his sense of vision onto the clear sky, seeing not long after that the sun had now passed the peak position.

    ¡°I wonder if the speed at which Herellia is clearing her tribtion could be considered as fast,¡± Argentum muttered to himself as he made his way back to where Horell was. Along the way, he went ahead and utilized his enhanced senses to check the changes that were happening to Herellia¡¯s body, only to retract it soon after. The reason why he retracted it was that he did not see any significant changes to her appearance or power at all while heading back to where Horell was.

    This was also the reason why when he came back to where Horell was, he went ahead and sat cross-legged before closing his sense of vision. He presumed that it was going to take a long while for Herellia to finish her evolution.

    And a long time did it take indeed.

    Bang!

    After about an hour or so since Herellia was first struck by the iridescent lightning bolts, the cocoon, which was made out of the iridescent bolts that struck Herellia, burst into multiple pieces as a loud explosion sound resounded throughout the area. This loud explosion alerted Argentum, who was fiddling with the True Water spells in his arsenal. Of course, Horell was alerted as well, who was immersed in attuning himself to the mana around him.

    Without hesitation, the two of them stood up before focusing their senses of vision onto where Herellia was, only to radiate auras of intense shock soon after as the current Herellia in front of their fields of vision was unlike the Herellia from before the evolution.

    Although the general appearance of the two was the same, the current Herellia could be likened to that of polished jade, while the previous Herellia could be likened to that of a diamond about to undergo polishing. The color of her surface now took on a fleshy hue, while a hint of red could be faintly seen as well. Not only that, but the proportions of her body were now more well-defined while the shape of her limbs had be more detailed. It was as if she was not made out of wood anymore, though her eyes said otherwise.

    Although they looked like the eyes of a normal Animate, there was no life to them. It gave off the feeling that one was looking at a lifelike statue instead of a real person. Nevertheless, the aura of power radiating from her was multiple levels higher than before, even giving Argentum the feeling that her currentbat power was equivalent to his in his base form.

    The robe that draped over her upper torso now had the appearance of red silk, with a few exquisite designs on the edges of the robe being visible. As for the hair on top of her head, which was previously made of crimson red strands, it now looked more lifelike, which greatlyplemented Herellia¡¯s already beautiful face.

    Ding!

    While the two of them were still in a state of shock, Argentum was brought back to reality as a notification sound resounded in his mind, prompting him to focus his attention on the notification screen as he took onest nce at Herellia. While reading through the notifications he had received, he could not help but mutter, ¡°Although the system says that her existence level is still that of a Pseudo-Animate, the aura surrounding her is not something a typical Pseudo-Animate would radiate.¡±

    ¡°It feels like something an Animate would radiate instead.¡±

    ¡°Oh. So that¡¯s why.¡±

    ¡°I wonder how strong she is right now.¡±

    ¡®The trial taker¡¯s second transitional evolution is nowplete.¡¯

    ¡®The trial taker¡¯s existence level is maintained at the Pseudo-Animate level, though the heavens have decided to bestow her power close to that of an Animate.¡¯

    ¡®Due to the bonus trial being sessfully cleared by the trial taker, the trial taker¡¯s current species has been enhanced and adjusted to the power given by the heavens.¡¯

    ¡®Taking the trial taker¡¯s responses into consideration, the trial taker¡¯s new species is¡­¡¯

    ¡®Sanguis Imperatris Primio ¡ª Lucus Minor (Legendary+).¡¯

    ¡ª¡ª¨C

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 Chapter 304: A Glimpse of Hell

    Chapter 304: A Glimpse of Hell

    While Argentum and Horell were inside their own little worlds, Herellia closed her sense of vision for a bit, limating herself to the power currently coursing throughout her body. A minuteter, she opened her sense of vision before focusing it on the puddle of blood below her, only to radiate an aura of disappointment as the puddle below her was mostly gone. Nevertheless, she was able to get a rough idea of her current appearance by looking at her arms and the robe covering her body, eventuallying to the conclusion that she most likely looked more like a human than before.

    After that, she focused her vision onto the sky, silently staring at the iridescent bolts of lightning being swallowed up by the dark blue bolts of lightning surrounding it. Naturally, as the dark blue lightning bolts engulfed the iridescent bolts, the intent of destruction radiating from them underwent a change. Unlike before, the intent of destruction surrounding these bolts felt suppressed, yet at the same time, enhanced to a certain extent. If one were to describe it, then the previous intent would be akin to a de covered in blood, while the current intent would be akin to a sheathed greatsword slung behind one¡¯s back.

    Other than that, no other change happened to the dark clouds. No new type of lightning was being formed, nor did a rumble resound from the dark clouds as an act of arrogance. Only pure silence prevailed at the moment. This thought made Herellia stop looking at the dark clouds as shemanded the system to list the changes that had happened to her body. It did not take long for the multiple notification screens that appeared in her mind to overwhelm her, causing her to sit cross-legged as she soon closed her vision.

    It was only after ten minutes or so was she able to process and organize the information she had received from the system, radiating an aura of wonder as she said, ¡°To think that my body has undergone this much change. Is this because of the response I gave?¡±

    ¡°Wait a second¡­was that me talking just now?¡± As she was talking to herself about the improvements brought about by the evolution she had undergone, her sense of hearing could not help but pick up her voice, causing her to be shocked for a bit. She then went ahead and made a few random sounds, making her let out a sigh of awe at the end of her experimentation as she soon muttered to herself, ¡°If I were a man, I might have fallen for my voice just now.¡±

    ¡°Anyways, I should really familiarize myself with these new skills I¡¯ve obtained,¡± she said not long after, letting out a sigh of dismay as she continued, ¡°This evolution removed all of my skills from the past evolution, as well as my skills from before the past evolution.¡±

    ¡°Then again, from what I¡¯m seeing through the system, these skills are far more potent and flexible than the other ones,¡± she added, letting out a chuckle as the aura around her changed to that of expectation and curiosity. She then went ahead and closed all of the notification screens in her mind before recing it with a screen listing all of the skills she had at the moment. After that, shemanded the system to remove all of the passive skills on the skill list, leaving only the active skills on it.

    Just as she was about to go ahead and immerse herself in the familiarization of her new skills, a thought surfaced on her mind, prompting her to redirect her vision towards Argentum and Horell before sending a strand of energy towards them.

    Whoosh!

    In less than an instant, this strand of energy had arrived in front of its recipient, which was Argentum. Hearing a familiar voice resound in his mind, Argentum moved the thing he was doing aside before focusing his attention on the voice.

    ¡°Hey, Argentum,¡± Herellia said to Argentum, to which he replied, ¡°What¡¯s up?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m going to familiarize myself with the skills I¡¯ve obtained from the evolution, so that means I¡¯m tasking you to keep an eye out if there¡¯s any change to the dark clouds,¡± she responded to his question soon after. She then continued, ¡°Is there any problem with you doing that?¡±

    ¡°Well, wasn¡¯t I doing that in the first ce?¡± Argentum replied to her question, letting out a chuckle as he added, ¡°Don¡¯t worry. I¡¯ll keep an eye out on the clouds while you go ahead and familiarize yourself.¡±

    After that, he looked at the dark clouds and noticed that the dark blue lightning bolts seemed to move in a sluggish manner rtive to their previous speed, prompting him to wonder what kind of hardship Herellia would have to go through next. With that in mind, he decided to tell her, ¡°If possible, familiarize yourself with your new skills as fast as possible. I have a feeling that the next trial would be incredibly deadly.¡±

    ¡°Then again, the next trial is your final trial. If you survive it, then you would have sessfully cleared the Existence Tribtion,¡± he continued. In response, Herellia radiated an aura of determination as she replied, ¡°That¡¯s good to hear. Alright, I¡¯ll try my hardest.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll be going now,¡± Herellia said soon after, to which Argentum replied, ¡°Good luck.¡±

    Whoosh!

    After that, the connection between the two was severed, leaving the two to their own devices. Taking in a deep breath, Argentum then went ahead and started with what he was told to do, which was to keep an eye on the dark clouds while Herellia was familiarizing herself with her skills. At first, Argentum was determined to focus most of his attention on the dark clouds, keeping track of the movements of the lightning bolts¡­only to get bored of it around ten minutester.

    ¡°Well, since nothing significant has happened inside the dark clouds, then that means that the next trial wouldn¡¯te for quite some time,¡± Argentum muttered to himself, only for him to radiate an aura of slight fear as he felt that he had jinxed the next trial. He then waited for a few minutes after saying those words, wondering if his words were about to bite him in the back. Fortunately, even after waiting for quite some time, nothing changed in the dark clouds, allowing him to let out a sigh of relief.

    As he felt that he should be doing something while waiting for the next trial to arrive, Argentum went ahead and closed his sense of vision before tinkering around with the spell creation feature of [Sage¡¯s Water Magic]. It did not take long for him to stop tinkering with it as he felt that the current arsenal of True Water spells he made was quite a perfect fit for the Existence Tribtion.

    Unsurprisingly, this made him let out a sigh of boredom as he wondered what he could do while waiting for the next trial toe down. Although he felt like he had a level of patience that far exceeded normal beings, it was at this moment that he felt like his patience was finally wearing thin after his senses were extended to the fullest throughout most of the trials so far.

    Nevertheless, he was someone who did not want his emotions to affect the grand scheme of things, separating the frustration he felt from what he had done in order to help Herellia out in her trials. Without dy, he went in and took a deep breath to regainposure as a random thought surfaced in his mind.

    ¡°I wonder if the buffs I cast on her before the evolution are still there,¡± he muttered to himself as he felt that this was something he could do while waiting for the next trial toe down. And just like that, he extended his enhanced senses towards the cross-legged Herellia, wanting to know if the buffs he had cast were still on her.

    Surprisingly, just like the hunch he had before from Herellia¡¯s past evolution, the buffs he had cast on Herellia¡¯s body had disappeared without a trace. At this moment, he could not help but radiate an aura of immense shock as he now knew that Herellia had tanked through most of the previous trials without any help from either of them.

    With that in mind, Argentum¡¯s hunch that Herellia would be able to tank through most of the lightning bolts in the next trial had be more certain. On the other hand, that also gave Argentum greater hope that she would be able to clear her Existence Tribtion without a problem.

    ¡°Should I cast that strong buff on Herellia again before the next trial starts?¡± Argentum muttered to himself in a questioning tone, weighing the pros and cons of the decision. Of course, the strong buff Argentum was talking about was none other than [Supreme Aqua Benefica: Selfless Variant], a Blessed Water spell he had created in order to cast a buff with around the same effects as [Aqua Imperium Universalis] on other people.

    In the end, he decided to not cast the buff on Herellia as he felt that the trial would be able to hastily adjust to her heightened power, thus increasing the difficulty of the next trial to a higher level. Taking a quick nce at the dark blue lightning bolts covering most of the dark clouds¡¯ insides, he could not help but inwardly shiver at the possibility that the next type of lightning bolt would form with his buff.

    Other than that, he also thought about the decision from Herellia¡¯s perspective, thinking that she would have preferred to get used to her newfound power first before going ahead and asking buffs from the two of them.

    ¡°Then again, I have a feeling that she doesn¡¯t know that the buffs on her body have already disappeared,¡± he said to himself not long after, letting out a slightly yful giggle.

    ¡°Hey, Argentum. You there?¡± Just as he was about to bring Horell back to reality, Horell had alreadye back from his daze. In response, Argentum replied, ¡°Yeah. What¡¯s up?¡±

    ¡°Can you sense the power that Herellia¡¯s radiating?¡± Horell soon asked Argentum as his sense of vision was focused on Herellia, to which he replied with a nod, ¡°Of course. Her currentbat power is already beyond our currentbat powers without buffs. She would definitely be able to defeat us in one move as long as we don¡¯t use our buffs.¡±

    While listening to Argentum¡¯s response, Horell could not help but mull over something before soon asking Argentum, ¡°Don¡¯t you think that with her power increasing, the difficulty of the next trial would increase to a far higher level?¡±

    ¡°Well, of course I do,¡± Argentum replied as he looked at the sky, noticing that the dark blue lightning bolts were finally moving at the original speed. Not long after, he noticed that they were moving faster than before, faintly emanating an intent of destruction far stronger than ever before.

    ¡°Is there anything I can do to help on the next trial?¡± Horell focused his sense of vision onto Argentum and asked soon after. In response, Argentum looked back at him and replied, ¡°For now, be incredibly vignt. This time, I seriously mean it. I have a feeling that this next trial would be¡ª¡±

    Ding!

    Before he was able to finish his response to Horell¡¯s question, a notification sound resounded in his mind, prompting him to abruptly go silent as hemanded the system to show the notifications he had received in his mind. As for Horell, after seeing Argentum abruptly go silent, he could not help but radiate an aura of worry as he called out for Argentum, only to get no response.

    In actuality, Argentum could hear Horell¡¯s words of concern quite well, but due to the notifications he had received from the system, he opted to ignore it and focus all of his attention on thetter. It did not take long for Argentum to read through all of the notifications, radiating an aura of graveness as he closed the notification screen in his mind.

    Noticing the change in Argentum¡¯s aura, Horell stopped speaking words of concern at him. Instead, he asked him, ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡±

    ¡°Horell,¡± Argentum said in a grave tone. ¡°Change of ns. This next trial is going to be a hellish one.¡±

    ¡°Go to where Herellia is and directly help her out in the next trial,¡± he continued, leaving Horell at a loss for words. After a few seconds, Horell imitated the sound of one loudly coughing as he asked, ¡°Argentum, are¡­are you serious?¡±

    ¡°As serious as I could be,¡± Argentum sinctly replied to his question, the serious aura surrounding him slightly intensifying. In response, Horell could not help but go silent for a bit as he weighed over the pros and cons of him following Argentum¡¯s decision. In the end, he could not make a choice and asked him, ¡°Just to be sure, once I directly interfere with Herellia¡¯s trial, that means that the next trial would undergo a spike in difficulty, right?¡±

    ¡°Yeah,¡± Argentum replied before continuing, ¡°But would you rather help her out and reap the consequences afterward or just let her die right now?¡±

    Hearing Argentum¡¯s words, Horell now took it seriously as he asked, ¡°Is the next trial that serious?¡±

    In response, Argentum slowly nodded as he said in a slightly whispering manner, ¡°I¡¯ll fill you on what the next trial ister. For now, head to where Herellia is.¡±

    ¡°Alright,¡± Horell said in response to Argentum¡¯s order before hastily making his way to where Herellia was.

    On the other hand, Argentum looked up at the dark clouds and saw that the dark blue lightning bolts, which were darting around at greater speeds a while ago, were now bunching up towards certain areas on the dark clouds. Letting out a sigh that had hints of terror in it, he then muttered to himself, ¡°This next trial¡­the heavens are really going ham on this one.¡±

    ¡°If this trial doesn¡¯t offer us three a glimpse of hell, then I don¡¯t know what hell truly looks like.¡±

    ¡®Thanks to the massive increase in power brought about by the trial taker¡¯s enhanced transitional evolution, the difficulty of the next trial shall be adjusted ordingly, taking into consideration the interferences made by external parties beforehand.¡¯

    ¡®The heavens have finally decided on the next trial given to the trial taker.¡¯

    ¡®The name of the next trial shall be¡­¡¯

    ¡®Force of a Hundred Thousand Abysses!¡¯

    ¡ª¡ª¨C

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 Chapter 305: Force of a Hundred Thousand Abysses

    Chapter 305: Force of a Hundred Thousand Abysses

    Rumble¡­rumble¡­

    Just as Horell had arrived at the ce where Herellia was, a loud rumble resounded from therge swath of dark clouds, radiating an intent that did not go unignored by Argentum¡¯s senses. Then again, Argentum could not afford to ignore the rumble that resounded due to the notifications he had received from the system. Putting the notification screen in his mind aside, he went ahead and utilized his enhanced senses to their fullest extent once more, allowing him to obtain the message hidden in the intent.

    It did not take long for him to obtain the intent¡¯s hidden message, letting out yet another sigh as he muttered to himself, ¡°This time, the lightning bolts are not gonna stop at anything to make sure that Herellia fails this final trial. Is this the true feelings of the heavens when ites to Herellia¡¯s plea to be an Animate? Or is it just the feelings of the lightning bolts that have been made to smite Herellia down?¡±

    ¡°Either way, the intent hidden behind the rumble this time around is quite intense,¡± he continued to mutter to himself as he looked at Horell and Herellia from afar. In less than an instant, his sense of vision noticed that Horell was looking at the dark clouds with an aura of terror surrounding him, presumably from the loud rumble that resounded just now. On the other hand, Herellia continued to be in a nonchnt state when it came to the surroundings around her. Of course, Argentum knew that she was deeply engrossed in familiarizing herself with the skills she had obtained from the evolution she had undergone.

    If Argentum knew that all of her skills from the past evolution, as well as the skills even before the first transitional evolution, had been reced with the skills that came from the current evolution, he would definitely tell Herellia to familiarize herself even more with the skills she had obtained. s, he was oblivious to this idea.

    ¡°Argentum¡­¡± Getting a bad feeling from the loud rumble that resounded just now, Horell hastily went ahead and sent a strand of energy towards Argentum before saying, ¡°Are you really sure that I could be of service in this next trial? I feel like you just made mee here to die.¡±

    ¡°Well, Existence Tribtions are basically trials that go against the heavens, so you¡¯re not wrong in the death aspect,¡± Argentum replied with a joke to make the conversation light-hearted, but this only resulted in the opposite effect on Horell. With his sense of vision focused on Horell, he then continued to talk, saying, ¡°But what if I tell you that you¡¯ll be able to offer more help than me when ites to direct interference?¡±

    ¡°Eh?¡± While listening to Argentum¡¯s words, Horell could not help but utter that sound as an aura of confusion emanated from him. Seeing that he was listening attentively to his words, Argentum continued, ¡°You might not have noticed just now, but after the loud rumble resounded from the dark clouds, Herellia sent me a message about the next trial. After hearing it, my decision to let you head to where Herellia was seems to be the best decision I¡¯ve ever made.¡±

    ¡°What kind of trial am I and Herellia up against?¡± Since their conversation was now on the topic of the next trial, Horell went ahead and assumed his calm andposed state as he asked this question. In response, Argentum took in a deep breath before responding, ¡°The next trial consists of dark blue lightning bolts, just like what Herellia had gone through.¡±

    In that instant, the calm andposed aura surrounding Horell had been instantly reced with fear as he felt the destructive power of those bolts even from where Argentum was. He knew that, even in his current Pseudo-Animate form, he would be turned into ashes once he was hit by one of those dark blue lightning bolts. Nevertheless, he took a look at Herellia beside her, prompting him to take in a few deep breaths as he steeled himself for the trial that was about toe.

    Letting out a sigh that had a hint of defeat, Horell continued to inquire about the specifics of the next trial, asking Argentum, ¡°How many dark blue lightning bolts are we up against?¡±

    ¡°Err¡­¡± Argentum hemmed and hawed for a bit, making it look like he was conversing with Herellia through energy strands to obtain this information. After a few seconds, he then sent an energy strand towards Horell before saying, ¡°A hundred thousand.¡±

    Whoosh!

    If the aura of fear surrounding Horell before covered the area of a small house, then the fear that he was currently feeling could easily cover the size of a football field¡­around ten of them possibly. Not wanting to make it seem that he was fearing for his life, Horell went ahead and asked Argentum one more question, though the trembling fear hidden beneath his words was still apparent.

    ¡°W-what should I do to help her out?¡± Horell asked, eliciting Argentum to ponder over their next moves for a bit as he thought about the ideal course of action when facing against a hundred thousand lightning bolts. It did not take long for him to conclude that the first thing he should do was to guarantee Horell¡¯s safety when it came to helping Herellia defend from the incessant barrage of lightning bolts.

    ¡°First off, activate all of the buffs you have in your arsenal,¡± Argentum responded around twenty or so secondster, to which Horell replied by activating all of his buffs without dy. After doing so, he continued to ask Argentum, saying, ¡°What next?¡±

    ¡°Next, I¡¯ll cast most of the buffs I have in my arsenal on you,¡± Argentum replied, to which Horell could not help but radiate an aura of confusion as he looked at Herellia. Looking at Herellia and Argentum back and forth for a bit, the fear he was feeling slightly subsided as he asked, ¡°Shouldn¡¯t all of your buffs be cast on Herellia first before me?¡±

    ¡°Horell, trust me when I say that¡­even if I cast most of my buffs on you, Herellia would still exert a level ofbat power that isn¡¯t inferior to it,¡± Argentum said in a slightly grave tone before continuing, ¡°Although I don¡¯t know how powerful Herellia truly is, from what she told me while giving me the information about the next trial, I can say with certainty that she would be able to clear the previous trials with ease with her current power.¡±

    Of course, Argentum was basing his words on what he obtained from the system notifications. Noticing that Herellia¡¯s current species had the rarity of Legendary+ once he read through it, he already knew that her power was now far beyond what he and Horell could muster in their base form. Thus, Argentum felt that the statement that her power would still be equivalent to a boosted Horell was not a lie in some aspects.

    Then again, he also thought that she would be somewhat infuriated if the first usage of her skills from the get-go were boosted, even if it meant that her chances of seeding in the next trial would be lower if she refused.

    Listening to Argentum¡¯s statement, Horell could not help but refute that statement, only to go silent as he sensed the serious aura Argentum was emanating. It was then another loud rumble resounded out from the dark clouds once more, transforming the aura around Horell to fear once more as he said, ¡°Alright, alright! Cast your buffs on me! Hurry!¡±

    ¡°Well that was a quick change of attitude,¡± Argentum muttered to himself as he inwardly let out a light chuckle. Soon after, he then went ahead and cast all of the spells he had from the Wind and Fire element that boosted a certain stat. Naturally, the True Water spells he prepared for this Existence Tribtion was also cast on Horell, which meant that he was the first recipient of his newly made spells instead of Herellia.

    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!

    In a matter of few seconds, a great number of energy balls in the colors of either red, blue, or green hastily made their way to where Horell was, only to be absorbed by his body not long after as the aura surrounding him had intensified to a greater level in less than an instant. Sensing that hisbat power had undergone an incredible amount of change in what seemed to be a sh, Horell could not help but be stuck in a daze for a bit as he felt like he was dreaming.

    Fortunately, it did not take long for him toe back to reality as his sense of vision was focused on Argentum before asking him, ¡°Have you cast all of the spells you cast on me onto Herellia yet?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ve cast most of it on Herellia, but not all of it,¡± Argentum replied sinctly after choosing his words carefully. Surprisingly, Horell continued to ask, ¡°Question, how long does it take you to cast all of these spells after their effects have worn out?¡±

    ¡°At the very instant they¡¯re dispelled, why?¡± Argentum said, taking into consideration the amount of mana he had, as well as his MP regeneration rate. In response, Horell imitated the sound of one sucking air between their teeth as he replied, ¡°What kind of journey did you go to obtain such fraudulent power, Argentum?¡±

    ¡°Well, even if you trekked the same paths as me, I¡¯m pretty sure you wouldn¡¯t be able to obtain most of what I¡¯ve obtained,¡¯ Argentum answered his question with a light chuckle, only for their conversation to be stopped as another loud rumble resounded from the dark clouds.

    At that instant, both Horell and Argentum focused their senses of vision on the movements of the dark blue lightning bolts, noticing that these lightning bolts were already bunching up in certain areas. Not long after, the dark clouds started to emanate dark blue light from multiple areas, giving the two an idea that it would not take long for the 100,000 lightning bolts to finallye crashing down.

    ¡°Horell, cast your strongest barrier on Herellia. It might take a while for her to finish adjusting to her current power,¡± Not wanting to be on the passive for this trial, Argentum hastily sent amand to Horell, to which Horell acted upon as the earliest moment possible.

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    Without dy, Horell went ahead and conjured a cyan magic circle at the front of his extended palms as he aimed this magic circle towards Herellia. Not long after, this magic circle was shot at Herellia, soon forming a barrier of energy that exquisite carvings on its surface.

    ¡°[Mana Barrier: Titan Shield],¡± Horell muttered after casting the spell before focusing his vision back onto Argentum. Unfortunately for him, just as he was about to ask Argentum what he should do next¡­

    The trial had finally begun.

    Bzzt¡­crash!

    Swish! Swish!

    Bang!

    Apanied by a cacophony of loud sounds that leaned more towards the explosion type, a hundred thousand Abyss-level lightning bolts simultaneously came down from the dark clouds in order to hinder Herellia from proceeding with her Existence Tribtion. At first, these lightning bolts came down from the skies in a manner that leaned more towards chaotic rather than ordered. But not long after, these bolts stopped in their tracks and, as if they had a mind of their own, decided to bunch up and transform intorge lightning pirs. How many?

    A thousand of them.

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    And so, rather than 100,000 individual Abyss-level lightning bolts, Herellia and Horell were instead up against a thousand lightning pirs, made up of 100 Abyss-level lightning bolts each. At that moment, Horell felt like he could not move his body from the immense fear he was feeling. It was as if that the only choice he had right now was to submit to the overbearing power of the lightning bolt pirs and be swallowed up by them.

    Of course, that thought did not truly happen as a voice boomed inside his mind, prompting him to remove the fear that he was feeling as he knew that his and Herellia¡¯s lives were at stake here.

    ¡°Horell! Use your strongest offensive skill to st away the lightning pirs nearest to the two of you!¡± Argentum shouted in Horell¡¯s mind through an energy strand, to which Horell responded with, ¡°Here goes nothing!¡±

    Whoosh!

    Without dy, Horell went ahead and extended both of his arms towards the lightning pirs that were getting closer and closer to where they were. Although he was seriously fearing for his life right now, he knew that he could not shirk away at this very moment, steeling himself as an aura of determination soon suffused from the aura of fear he was radiating all this time.

    Swoosh!

    In less than an instant, a magic circle multiple timesrger than the one he cast on Herellia a while ago soon appeared in front of his extended arms as a gate made out of energy was soon created from the magic circle. Soon after, Horell went ahead and infused a great portion of his energy as he shouted, ¡°[Gate of Myriad Armaments]¡­¡±

    ¡°[Part Two]!¡±

    Swish! Whoosh! Fwoosh!

    And just like that, a near incessant amount of weapons made out of Horell¡¯s energy soon flung out of the gate as its doors opened, targeting all of the lightning pirs that were near them. Unsurprisingly, thanks to therge number of buffs that was cast on him by Argentum, the firepower of a single weapon was enough to slightly weaken one of the lightning bolt pirs. With that in mind, it went without saying that once arge swath of weapons went ahead and collided with the lightning bolt pirs, then these lightning bolt pirs disappeared without a trace. These then transformed into dark blue strands that headed to where Herellia was, making Horell slightly disappointed that these strands did not head to where he was.

    Nevertheless, he continued to fight against the lightning bolt pirs with the skill.

    3¡­7¡­11¡­15¡­

    As time passed, more and more lightning bolt pirs were dispelled thanks to Horell¡¯s ultimate skill, which allowed him to form arge array of weapons that he could control like an extension of his limb. Unfortunately, with every pir he dispelled, a decently sized portion of the weapons he created would be destroyed in the process. At first, he would be able to replenish it thanks to the energy he had left over in his body, but as time passed, it became more and more impossible.

    By the time the 37th or so lightning bolt pir was near where they were, all of the weapons that were formed from the spell Horell used had now been destroyed, dispelling therge gate that acted as a controller of the weapons in the process.

    Although he knew that it was inevitable for him to be beaten back by the lightning pirs, he could not help but let out a sigh as he muttered to himself, ¡°Well, what do you know. All of the fear I had a while ago disappeared. That¡¯s great.¡±

    ¡°Just so you know, Herellia, I tried my best to dispel a lot of lightning pirs before you had to make a move, but it seems that I¡¯ve already reached my limit,¡± Horell continued to mutter as he looked at the lightning pirsing closer and closer at them. Just as he was about to sit on the ground and closed his eyes as he waited for the inevitable toe, a familiar voice resounded behind him, prompting him to turn around and radiate an aura of immense shock.

    ¡°You¡¯ve done well, Horell. Thank you for helping me out.¡±

    ¡°Herellia¡­¡±

    ¡°Save your questions forter. For now¡­¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t you think it¡¯s time for me to do my part?¡±

    ¡ª¡ª¨C

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 Chapter 306: The Blood Empress Rises

    Chapter 306: The Blood Empress Rises

    Without waiting for Horell to answer her questions, Herellia went closer to where he was and stood in front of him. As Horell could not help but radiate an aura of confusion and curiosity as he wondered what Herellia was about to do, Herellia, on the other hand, calmly looked at the lightning pirs that wereing closer and closer to the two of them. While she was doing this, she allowed the energy inside her body to circte as small chunks of her robe detached from the edges, transforming into small crimson petals that lightly floated in midair.

    Of course, this had gone unnoticed under Horell¡¯s sense of vision as it was focused on the lightning pirs rather than what Herellia was doing. Seeing that she was only calmly looking at the gradually closing lightning pirs without making a move, the aura of curiosity that suffused from Horell was gradually reced with fear as he could not help but ask her, ¡°What are you doing, Herellia? Didn¡¯t you say just now that you were going to do your part?¡±

    In response, Herellia let out a sound that was synonymous with the phrase of ¡®be quiet¡¯, prompting Horell to temporarily suppress his fear as she soon uttered, ¡°Be quiet for a second, Horell. I¡¯m waiting for the right time.¡±

    ¡°Right time? Right time for what?¡± Horell replied to her words with a question before mulling over what she was talking about. It did not take long for his sense of vision to redirect itself towards the lightning pirs as he instantly felt a bad premonition in his mind. Without dy, he asked with an aura of lingering hope around him, ¡°Don¡¯t tell me¡­you¡¯re waiting for the lightning pirs toe closer?¡±

    Herellia responded to his question with pure silence, tacitly agreeing that what she was currently doing was indeed the case. Then again, her sense of vision did not shirk away from the lightning pirs in the first case, utilizing it to the fullest extent as she waited for the right moment to attack. Naturally, with his personality, Horell started to dissuade Herellia from what she was doing, saying with a nervous chuckle, ¡°You¡¯re joking, right?¡±

    ¡°Are you seriously waiting for the lightning pirs toe closer before you make your move?¡± Horell soon asked her before continuing, ¡°Do you really want us to be on the fine line between life and death before you make your move?¡±

    ¡°Herellia, this isn¡¯t like y¡ª¡± Unfortunately for him, before Horell could continue berating Herellia for what he thought was a bad decision, Herellia had finally made her move, summoning all of the energy in her body as she manipted all of the small crimson petals she had formed towards the lightning pirs nearest to them.

    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!

    In less than an instant, a great number of crimson petals emerged out of nowhere from Horell¡¯s perspective, bringing Horell an immense amount of shock as he did not know when Herellia started forming these petals. Nevertheless, it was at this moment that he realized that he was the one at fault, muttering to himself, ¡°I should apologize to Herelliater.¡±

    ¡°For now, I¡¯ll put a bit of distance from her so I don¡¯t distract her from what she¡¯s doing,¡± he said to himself not long after. But just as he was about to move farther away from where Herellia was, a great number of crimson petals soon surrounded him, prompting him to look at Herellia. Surprisingly, Herellia was looking at him with an aura of nonchnce surrounding her, only for it to turn into a light chuckle as she asked him, ¡°Surprised?¡±

    ¡°Of course,¡± Horell said in a tone of slight concern. ¡°You should¡¯ve told me earlier that you were nning something like this, then I wouldn¡¯t be saying all of those words to you!¡±

    Rather than replying to his words seriously, Herellia instead responded with another chuckle as she said, ¡°My bad, my bad.¡±

    Just as she was about to continue their conversation, she noticed that the lightning pirs had finally gotten close enough through the crimson petals, prompting her to radiate an aura of bloodlust as she hastily told Horell, ¡°Give me a second.¡±

    Swish!

    And just like that, Herellia¡¯s attention was now fully focused on the swath of crimson petals she had created while waiting for the lightning pirs toe close once more. Without dy, she summoned all of the energy inside her body before infusing it towards the crimson petals as these petals soon arranged themselves in a mysterious formation. Not long after, this mysterious formation radiated a slightly intense crimson glow as the lines that made up a normal magic circle could be seen in between the petals.

    Pushing outward with one of her palms, Herellia sent the crimson magic circle towards the nearing lightning pirs as she muttered, ¡°[Blood Empress Decree: Verse One].¡±

    Whoosh!

    ¡°[Submission].¡±

    Swoosh! Fwoosh! Whish!

    In an instant, the size of the magic circle had increased multiple times as it collided with the 10 nearest lightning pirs that were about to hit them. At first, Horell thought that the magic circle wouldn¡¯t be able to do anything to the lightning pirs as it had not manifested anything, prompting him to close his sense of vision for a bit. But then, after noticing that nothing had happened to them for some time now, he decided to gradually open his eyes, only to be left at a loss for words as shock covered his whole body.

    In his field of vision, he saw that 10 lightning pirs, which were the nearest to them, could not move any further beyond therge magic circle Herellia formed. And just as he thought that this was the limit of the magic circle, it then did something unbelievable to Horell, redirecting the energy of the lightning pirs towards the center of the magic circle, forcing them to sh against each other.

    Bang!

    As a result of the collision of a thousand Abyss-level lightning bolts, a loud explosion sound resounded from the collision as a shockwave covered a great portion of the surroundings as well. Due to the shockwave, Horell had no choice but to brace himself for the aftershocks as he hovered slightly above the ground, only for the shock that covered his body to intensify one step further.

    ¡°Who knew this skill was actually this overbearing,¡± Herellia muttered to herself in slight surprise as she looked at the magic circle she had conjured. Thanks to the great improvement in power she had undergone, it was no problem for her to ignore the shockwave that came from the collision of the lightning bolts, as well as the aftershocks that came with it. But just as she was about to focus her attention on the skill she had cast once more, she noticed that Horell was slightly struggling to endure the aftershocks.

    Without hesitation, Herellia channeled all of her power towards one of her feet before stomping on the ground with full force, negating the aftershocks in one move. Although she knew that Horell was now looking at her as if she was a monster, she ced this thought at the back of her head as she focused her attention on the magic circle. At that moment, she noticed that a great mass of dark blue strands was formed from the collision, prompting her to use some of her energy tomand the magic circle to make a small entrance for the dark blue strands to enter.

    Naturally, after these dark blue strands found a small hole to pass through, they went to where Herellia was, being absorbed by her body in less than an instant. It only took a while for her to limate to the improvement brought about by 1,000 Abyss-level lightning bolts, allowing her to let out a sigh of contentment as she allowed the magic circle to continue defending the two of them from the lightning pirs.

    ¡°So¡­where were we?¡± These were the first words Herellia said to Horell after allowing him to see her currentbat power. In response, Horell could only muster out one word from the shock he was feeling, looking at Herellia with an aura filled with awe and fear as he said, ¡°Monster!¡±

    At first, Herellia was stupefied to hear such a word from one of her lifelongpanions, only for her to let out a boisterous and yful giggle soon after as she responded with, ¡°Alright, alright. Call me whatever you want if that makes you happy.¡±

    ¡°Anyways, could you cast some regeneration buffs on me? I want to try something out,¡± Herellia said to him not long after, to which Horell replied with a tone of curiosity, ¡°What do you want to do?¡±

    ¡°Well, I want to try one of the skills I¡¯ve obtained from my new evolution. Plus, I have a great feeling that this would help me and you get out of this trial faster,¡± Herellia replied to his question with an aura of confidence and determination surrounding her, leaving Horell no choice but to let out a sigh as he followed her wishes.

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    In a matter of a few seconds, quite a few balls of energy that varied in size were soon absorbed by Herellia¡¯s body, enhancing the vitality and the vigorousness of the cells making up her body, as well as the energy flowing inside her body. Lightly nodding towards Horell as a gesture of gratitude to what he had done, she then told him, ¡°Okay. The first thing we¡¯re going to do is¡­¡±

    ¡°Split up.¡±

    ¡°Eh?¡± Listening to Herellia¡¯s words, Horell thought that he had heard wrongly, asking Herellia to repeat her words one more time. After confirming that he had indeed not heard wrongly, Horell looked at Herellia with an aura of slight indignation as he asked her, ¡°Then why didn¡¯t you let me leave earlier? I was nning to distance myself while you were casting your skill so I don¡¯t disturb you.¡±

    ¡°About that¡­¡± In response, Herellia let out a light and awkward chuckle as she asked Horell, ¡°Could you give me around half of the energy inside your body?¡±

    ¡°Isn¡¯t that just equivalent to telling me that I should go die?¡± Horell said in response, to which Herellia hastily replied, ¡°No, no, no, no. I can assure you that you¡¯ll definitely be safe. You¡¯ll be under this magic circle anyway.¡±

    Feeling that something was off, Horell soon pondered over Herellia¡¯s words, trying to read between the lines. Fortunately, it did not take long for him to put two and two together as he looked at her with slight worry and asked, ¡°You¡¯re telling me¡­you¡¯re leaving the protection of the magic circle you cast?¡±

    ¡°Yeah. Temporarily,¡± Herellia said as an aura of tion and expectation soon emanated from her as she said, ¡°I just want to test a skill out.¡±

    Listening to Herellia¡¯sst words, Horell went silent for quite some time, allowing more and more lightning pirs to strike the magic circle protecting the two of them. At this moment, a total of 80 or so lightning pirs had now been dispelled by both Herellia and Horell.

    In the end, Horell let out a sigh as he said, ¡°Fine, fine. Here, take it.¡±

    Whoosh!

    Without dy, Horell summoned around half of the energy making up his body before sending it towards Herellia. As a result, the energy that made up his body started to flicker while the aura emanating Herellia had undergone a great change thanks to the energy infused into her. Letting out a sigh of contentment as she allowed the energy sent to her to fuse with her own energy, she then looked at Horell and warned him, ¡°As long as you don¡¯t go outside the boundary of this magic circle, you¡¯re guaranteed to be safe.¡±

    ¡°Alright. I won¡¯t go beyond this magic circle,¡± Horell said in a solemn tone as he hoped in his mind that Herellia would be safe in whatever she was about to do next. Lightly nodding as a response to Horell¡¯s words, Herellia then went ahead and moved outside the protection of her magic circle as she hastily sent a strand of energy towards Argentum, who was looking at the two of them from afar.

    ¡°You finally contacted me,¡± Argentum said at the very instant the two of them were connected, letting out a light chuckle in the process. After that, he asked her, ¡°I presume that the magic circle protecting Horell right now is one of the new skills you obtained, right?¡±

    ¡°Cool, right?¡± Herellia said in response to his words with a giggle, proud that she was able to unleash a skill with that level of power. Argentum replied to her question with what he truly felt, telling her, ¡°Yeah, it¡¯s pretty cool. Anyways, why did you contact me?¡±

    ¡°I want you to cast all of the movement speed boosting buffs you have in your arsenal,¡± Herellia replied, to which Argentum followed without hesitation. While casting the spells that boosted movement speed, he could not help but wonder as to why Herellia, who surely knew that buffing herself up would lead to the difficulty of the trial increasing, willingly asked him to cast buffs on her all of a sudden.

    ¡°Well, I¡¯ll find out sooner orter,¡± Argentum muttered to himself as he soon sent balls of energy towards Herellia, somewhat enhancing the aura of power around Herellia as soon as the balls were absorbed by her body. Herellia then went ahead and closed her sense of vision for a bit as she allowed her body to limate to the buffs she had obtained. While doing so, a lightning pir seemed to have noticed that Herellia was outside of the magic circle¡¯s protection, proceeding to head towards her without hesitation to smite her down.

    Unfortunately for the lightning pir, Herellia was one step faster.

    Whoosh!

    Just as the lightning pir was about to hit Herellia, Herellia opened her vision before zooming towards another area at full speed, using the buffs she had obtained to their fullest extent as multiple crimson petals were soon created from the edges of her robe.

    It did not take long for arge swath of crimson petals to cover most of Herellia¡¯s upper torso, prompting her to stop as she then willed these petals to move in ordance with what she was thinking.

    Swish! Swish!

    Gradually, the crimson petals started to converge in front of Herellia as a rough object started to form. In the midst of the forming process, Herellia went ahead and summoned out a great portion of the energy inside her body before infusing it towards the mass of crimson petals in front of her. Surprisingly, as if the mass in front of her was a human that finally found water, the energy she infused into the mass of crimson petals was hastily gobbled up as she moved her mind at the highest speed it could go.

    Whirr¡­whirr¡­

    Not long after, the rough mass of crimson petals had finally transformed into a tangible object that Animates recognized, turning into a crimson halberd that floated in midair. Without hesitation, Herellia gripped tightly on the halberd¡¯s shaft before getting a feel for it. After feeling that the weight of the halberd was just right, she then focused her sense of vision towards the remaining lightning pirs on the sky, noticing that a great portion was heading towards her way.

    In response, Herellia inwardly let out a loud chuckle as she pointed the halberd towards the gradually nearing lightning pirs before shing down horizontally.

    Whish!

    Surprisingly, as if Herellia had parted the clouds with a single wave of a sword, the lightning pirs that were getting closer and closer to her had been bisected, transforming into dark blue strands that hastily made their way to where she was before being absorbed by her body.

    She then closed her sense of vision for a bit as shemitted the sensation she felt just now into her memory as she muttered, ¡°70 lightning pirs were dispelled in just one move. If I lured more lightning pirs toe closer, would it be possible to cut more at once?¡±

    With that in mind, she opened her sense of vision once more before taunting the lightning pirs toe get a piece of her. And just like that, a great number of lightning pirs, which were afraid ofing closer a while ago, decided to head towards Herellia and stop her before she could use that move again.

    Of course, she did not let that happen as she gripped on the crimson halberd far tighter than before. After that, she swung it once more, radiating an aura of excitement as she shouted, ¡°[Blood Empress Decree: Verse Five].¡±

    ¡°[Domination]!¡±

    ¡ª¡ª¨C

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 Chapter 307: Making a Move

    Chapter 307: Making a Move

    Whish!

    In an instant, a great portion of the lightning pirs that were heading towards Herellia after being taunted by her had been cut into two, transforming them into a swath of dark blue strands that headed towards her body. Although that was the case, a dissatisfied aura radiated from her as she imitated the sound of one clicking their tongue as she muttered to herself, ¡°A hundred lightning pirs. Is that the limit of my skill?¡±

    At this moment, she was gauging the limits of the skill she had just used, which was none other than [Blood Empress Decree: Verse Five, Domination]. Thanks to the taunting she had just done to lure the lightning pirs towards her, with the help of her enhanced vision from the evolution, she was able to see that around 150 lightning pirs went towards her to smite her down, but only two-thirds of those lightning pirs were cut down from the skill she had used. Of course, that did not mean that she was truly dissatisfied with the skill¡¯s powers, but in her current situation, she felt like it wascking.

    ¡°I think I haven¡¯t tried my hardest in that activation of the skill,¡± she said to herself, feeling that this was the reason why she was only able to cut down 100 pirs instead of the whole 150 she had lured. Nevertheless, since the remaining 50 lightning pirs were heading her way, she did not let them have their way, gripping tightly on the crimson halberd she wielded before charging towards them like a berserker covered in blood.

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    If an Animate were to look at the current Herellia from afar, they would undoubtedly say that she was currently clearing the tribtion that befall her in the most domineering way possible, facing against the lightning bolts that wanted to hit her head-on. At first, one would think that she would certainly die from one sh with therge lightning pirs she was facing against, but that wasn¡¯t the case as of this moment. In fact, it was the exact opposite.

    Whoosh! Swoosh!

    With every swing of the halberd she wielded, Herellia would cut down a lightning pir to the point of being dispelled, transforming into dark blue strands that were absorbed by her body before strengthening it. It was in this tyrannical manner of dispelling the lightning pirs was Herellia able to decimate the 50 lightning pirs that wanted to smite her down.

    ¡°Haah¡­haah¡­¡± After destroying those 50 lightning pirs, Herellia felt a new sensation washing over her body, making her feel like it was slightly hard for her to move her body. Although it was possible for her to do so if she forced herself, she felt like it would only make it harder for her to move her body in the long run. Then again, she felt that this sensation would disappear when she gave it enough time to pass, deciding to sit on the ground for a bit and rest as she counted the remaining lightning bolts she and Horell had to face.

    On the other hand, a being under arge crimson magic circle could not help but look at Herellia with an aura of immense shock surrounding him. Naturally, this being was Horell, who only felt immense awe, shock, and even a hint of fear from the showcase of power Herellia had just done slightly far away from him.

    ¡°And here I was hoping that the heavens showed mercy on Herellia by allowing her to survive,¡± Horell muttered to himself as he let out a mocking chuckle soon after. He then continued to mutter, saying, ¡°But in actuality, she now has more than enough power to destroy one of the lightning pirs in one hit! Now that I think about it¡­should I be thanking the heavens for giving Herellia this level of power?¡±

    ¡°Quite confusing,¡± he said after pondering over the question he had asked himself for a bit. Although that was the case, an aura of pride and confidence radiated from him as he looked at Herellia and said, ¡°As long as Herellia shows at least a power at this level after she sessfully clears the tribtion, then who could say that the Verdant Blossom Branch Alliance isn¡¯t the best alliance in Tempest Cliff?¡±

    ¡°Though we are the only alliance in Tempest Cliff, heh.¡±

    As for Argentum, he also felt incredulous shock after seeing the showcase of power Herellia had done, prompting him to let out a chuckle as he said to himself, ¡°Well, it seems that Herellia is officially the strongest being in the alliance¡­¡±

    ¡°When only considering one¡¯s base form, that is,¡± he muttered soon after as he was quite curious as to what level of power Herellia could reach if he cast all of his buffs on her. With that in mind, he could not help but recall his full power and his original body¡¯s full power, prompting him to continue muttering, ¡°If we¡¯re talking about one¡¯sbat power once one activates all of their buffs, then I¡¯m pretty sure Aurus would win hands down. And I guess I would be second?¡±

    ¡°Either way, as long as nothing goes wrong during this trial, then Herellia would have no problems clearing this one,¡± he said to himself before an aura of expectation and tion surrounded him as he continued, ¡°And with that, she would have sessfully cleared the trial!¡±

    Recalling what the heavens said to him through the system, Herellia¡¯s Existence Tribtion consisted of 3 trials. Ignoring the fact that one of the trials was a bonus trial that allowed Herellia to obtain an enhancement to her transitional evolution, then it meant that the current trial Herellia was facing was pretty much thest trial she had to endure. This thought was the answer to his question from before, which was the question of why Herellia had asked him to cast a buff on her, even though she knew the repercussions of such a move. Although he had such a thought in mind, he could not help but wonder how Herellia came to know that all of the buffs on her body had been dispelled.

    ¡°Or perhaps, she thinks I have more buffs?¡± Pondering over this statement, Argentum felt that it was quite feasible as well, though he would not say that the first thought he had was impossible to happen.

    After clearing all of the unneeded thoughts inside his mind, he then continued to look at Herellia from afar, noticing that she was currently sitting down on the ground as her sense of vision was focused on the lightning pirs. Utilizing his enhanced senses, he soon found out that Herellia¡¯s vitality was slightly weaker than before, although it was recovering at a decently fast rate. At first, he did not know the reason why this was happening, but after rummaging through Aurus¡¯s memories for a while, as well as pondering over it, he soon came to know that Herellia was experiencing exhaustion.

    ¡°Well, it¡¯s not weird for her to experience something like that, given the fact that she¡¯s incredibly close to bing an Animate,¡± Argentum muttered to himself, wondering if the other functions of an Animate were also visible on the current Herellia.

    While Argentum was looking at her with great intent, Herellia finally stood up from the ground after noticing that the sensation she felt had disappeared, gripping tightly onto her crimson halberd once more as she recalled the number of lightning pirs that remained after her attacks.

    ¡°Adding in the lightning pirs that had been dispelled by the magic circle I made to protect Horell, then there are around 650 or so lightning pirs for me and Horell to destroy,¡± Herellia muttered to herself as she redirected her sense of vision towards Horell. To be more exact, her sense of vision was directed the crimson magic circle over Horell¡¯s head. Without hesitation, she sent a strand of energy towards the magic circle, wanting to know the remaining time it had before it dispelled.

    Indeed, the magic circle had a fixed amount of time before it would disappear. Although the length of time that the magic circle would exist relied on the amount of energy that was infused in it, even with the amount of energy Herellia infused, she was only able to extend the magic circle¡¯s duration to 10 minutes.

    After swinging her crimson halberd twice, as well as removing the exhaustion she felt, only a couple of minutes remained before the magic circle would dispel. With that in mind, Herellia went ahead and taunted as many of the lightning pirs as possible, utilizing the movement speed boosting buff that was cast on her by Argentum to its fullest extent.

    Fortunately, it did not take long for a great portion of the remaining lightning pirs to chase Herellia down after being taunted, redirecting quite a decent number of the lightning pirs that were about to hit the magic circle towards her instead. At this point, Horell could not help but wonder what Herellia was doing, only to conclude that she was going to use that overbearing skill once more.

    And indeed she was. After focusing her sense of vision on the lightning pirs and feeling that she had umted enough of them, she stopped running away from them before turning around to face them with her halberd in hand. This time, she summoned all of the energy she could muster from her body before redirecting all of it towards the halberd she wielded. Of course, that did not stop there. Surprisingly, she even went ahead and summoned even more energy from who-knows-where, redirecting it towards the halberd without hesitation.

    Even though she felt the sensation from before creeping up once more, she knew that she had to amass a great amount of energy if she wanted to reduce the burden Horell would have to endure. After feeling that she had redirected almost of the energy inside her body into the halberd, she went ahead and shed horizontally with her halberd once more as she shouted, ¡°[Blood Empress Decree: Verse Five, Domination]!¡±

    Whish!

    Fwoosh!

    At the very instant she released her attack, a decent portion of the lightning pirs she had taunted were bisected, transforming into dark blue strands that enhanced herbat power and slightly recovered her energy. Nevertheless, she felt like the attack that she released, even though it was far stronger than before, was stillcking.

    ¡°150 lightning pirs in one go¡­¡± Herellia muttered to herself in slight contemtion before eventually shouting, ¡°Not enough!¡±

    Whoosh!

    Without hesitation, she pointed her crimson halberd towards the remaining lightning pirs once more before going ahead and redirecting all of the energy inside her body towards the halberd¡­only for something else to happen.

    Bang!

    Out of nowhere, a loud explosion sound resounded inside Herellia¡¯s mind as she felt that it was incredibly hard for her to move her body. It was as if the body she had was not her own anymore. At this very moment, she could not help but wonder why this was happening to her, only for her to remember the sensation she felt while she was charging up her previous attack.

    Letting out a sigh of slight disappointment, she went ahead and allowed her body to lie down on the ground as she looked at the lightning pirs that were about toe and gobble her up. It was only at this moment did she count the number of lightning pirs she had taunted, causing her to let out a wry chuckle as she said, ¡°I¡¯ve actually taunted 400 lightning pirs. How great would it be if my attack just now was able to dispel all of them?¡±

    After saying those words, she then closed her sense of vision, waiting for the inevitable toe. Although she was still gripping tightly onto her halberd, she could not summon any strength out of her body anymore. She had overexerted her body in her previous attack, using up all of the energy that was stored inside her body in that single attack. Even though she knew she could recover some energy to dodge these lightning pirs, she knew that it would still take a while for that to happen. Would the lightning pirs wait for her to recover her energy before striking down?

    Of course not.

    And so, she epted her current fate.

    Though¡­another being was not going to let that happen.

    Whoosh!

    While her sense of vision was closed, she gradually heard the sound of wind be louder as she felt that a being was standing in front of where she was lying down. Soon after that, she felt a familiar energy covering a certain radius around her and the being, which she instantly thought was protecting her and the being from the onught of the lightning pirs.

    Naturally, she wondered as to who this being was, only for her to inwardly let out a light chuckle as she instantly knew who it was. At first, she thought that it was Argentum, but even at his full speed, he would still be toote to grab her body and help her dodge the attack. With that in mind, she said, ¡°I thought you were the type of guy to avoid things that were harmful to you, Horell.¡±

    Whoosh!

    As she said those words, she opened her sense of vision, allowing her field to be covered by the sight of Horell¡¯s back as she sat upright. In response, a light chuckle radiated from Horell as he replied in a stuttering voice, ¡°To be honest, I¡¯m seriously regretting my impulsive choice right now.¡±

    ¡°But I can¡¯t really shirk away from things like these if one of my closestpanions¡¯ lives are on the line now, can I?¡± Horell said not long after as he turned his head to look at Herellia.

    After saying that, he went ahead and extended both of his arms towards the nearing lightning pirs as he started to summon all of the energy he had recuperated towards his palms. Soon after, a cyan magic circle a few timesrger than the one before appeared in front of his extended palms as he silently muttered a few incantations along the way while being vignt of the distance between him and the lightning pirs that were out to get them.

    Fortunately, before the lightning pirs were even able to close the distance between them, Horell muttered to Herellia, who was behind him, ¡°Although I feel like this isn¡¯t the right thing to say since it¡¯s your tribtion¡­¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s time for me to do my part one more time.¡±

    Whoosh!

    ¡°[Gate of Myriad Armaments: Part Three]¡­¡±

    ¡°[World of Armis]!¡±

    ¡ª¡ª¨C

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 Chapter 308: Fusion Verse: True Submission

    Chapter 308: Fusion Verse: True Submission

    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!

    Unlike before where the magic circle Horell conjured would manifest a gate that created arge number of weapons, this time, the magic circle that was in front of Horell¡¯s extended palms now manifested a small sphere with a terrifying aura surrounding it. Not long after, this small sphere then expanded in volume by multiple degrees in an instant, stopping a decent number of lightning pirs at the front from moving.

    Soon after, this sphere then split itself into multiple chunks as these chunks gradually transformed into weapons of various shapes and sizes. Of course, as the sphere was gradually transforming into multiple weapons, that meant that the lightning pirs could now pass through the gaps between the weapons and strike Herellia and Horell down. But who said Horell didn¡¯t take that into consideration?

    ¡°Shatter!¡± Without hesitation, Horell let out a loud shout as he infused a great amount of energy towards the weapons made from therge sphere. He then utilized his mind to the fullest, controlling the weapons like they were an extension of his limbs through the energy connection he had established. It did not take long for some of the lightning pirs, which had used the gaps to their advantage, to be dispelled thanks to the cooperation of the weapons.

    Naturally, once the sneaky lightning pirs were dispelled, Horell then redirected his attention towards therge swath of lightning pirs wanting to gobble the two of them up. Without dy, hemanded the weapons to arrange themselves neatly in front of them as he willed these weapons to attack the lightning pirs, focusing on cooperation instead of individual power.

    Back then, when Herellia was still in the state of familiarizing herself with her skills, Horell had used the weaker version of the skill he had cast to fight against the pirs, sacrificing his weapons one by one until the pirs dispelled. Although it allowed him to dispel quite a decent number of pirs in the process, the amount of energy he lost from the shattering of the weapons was far greater than the amount of energy he could recover, even with the buffs he had cast on himself.

    With that in mind, he knew that he should fight against these pirs with a different approach, utilizing a small group of weapons to share the burden of dispelling a lightning pir, which in turn would reduce the rate of energy loss that he had to endure. Thanks to this strategy, Horell was able to dispel a pir at a speed far faster than before while he was able to recover enough energy in the process to repair the weapons he sent out that were damaged.

    While Horell was focused on dispelling the lightning pirs to give enough time for Herellia to recuperate, Herellia, on the other hand, could not help but look at Horell in awe. The reason as to why she was in awe was because Horell was exhibiting a level ofbat power far greater than what he had shown her before. To her, it was as if the Horell in front of her had undergone an evolution.

    In fact, this was the thought she had in mind, prompting her to ask him, ¡°Horell, out of curiosity, did you undergo an evolution or something while I was evolving?¡±

    In response, Horell radiated an aura of immense confusion as his concentration was briefly broken, allowing some of the lightning pirs to pass through the array of weapons he had arranged. Fortunately, Horell was able to notice this in time, increasing the control he had on the weapons for some time before returning it to normal. After that, he took a few deep breaths to regain hisposure before turning around and responding, ¡°Herellia, I¡¯ve already undergone an Existence Tribtion. I can¡¯t evolve as fast as you just did.¡±

    ¡°Then how did you gain this much power in such a short time?¡± Herellia asked in response to his words before continuing, ¡°Were you hiding some of your skills from me to wow me or¡­¡±

    Just as she was about to continue interrogating Horell about his secrets to bing stronger, she then recalled that they had apanion that was capable of enhancing one¡¯sbat power to a great degree in a short amount of time. With that in mind, she then looked at Horell with an aura that felt like she finally knew the answer as she asked, ¡°Did you be this strong because of Argentum?¡±

    ¡°Pretty much,¡± Horell did not deny the fact that he was this strong because of Argentum. It was then that Herellia understood why Horell was this strong, even though he wasn¡¯t this strong in the first ce. Taking a few deep breaths to increase the rate at which the sensation she felt disappear, she then asked Horell, ¡°At your current state, how long do you think you canst?¡±

    ¡°Taking into consideration the amount of time I¡¯ve been defending you against the pirs, around thirty more minutes, give or take,¡± Horell replied, basing his answer on the amount of time hested while he was protecting Herellia when she was still familiarizing herself with her skills. Hearing Horell¡¯s answer, she then lightly nodded before standing up, lightly stretching her body as she let out a light sigh.

    ¡°It takes me five minutes to recover from a state of uselessness to a state where I could barely defend myself,¡± Herellia muttered to himself, thinking that it would take quite a bit more time for her to return to her peak condition. Nevertheless, she did not waste the time that Horell bought for her, deciding to head towards the crimson magic circle she had conjured to increase the amount of time Horell could buy for him.

    Although there was a limited duration for the magic circle to exist, that did not mean that this duration could be extended. What Herellia had in mind was to infuse more of her energy towards the magic circle, as well as ask Horell to transfer some of his energy to her to extend the duration of the magic circle even further. Of course, before she headed to where the crimson magic circle was, she looked at Horell and said, ¡°Horell, follow me.¡±

    ¡°Eh? Where are we going?¡± Horell asked in response, to which Herellia replied, ¡°The crimson magic circle I conjured. I¡¯m nning to infuse more energy into it so you could stall for longer. I need you to protect me while we¡¯re heading there.¡±

    ¡°Alright,¡± Horell nodded as he responded to her words, redirecting some of his concentration to where Herellia was while most of it was still focused on controlling the weapons. Due to Herellia running around, luring a great number of the lightning pirs before attacking back then, the distance between her and the magic circle she had conjured could be considered to be too far in her current state. She felt that she could head there as fast as possible, but it would result in her bing incredibly exhausted, which was something she did not want to feel again.

    And so, without hesitation, she went ahead and walked to where the magic circle was, but at a faster pace. Although the sensation she felt was not disappearing, it was not intensifying either, allowing her to let out a sigh of relief as she focused her sense of vision towards the magic circle, sending some of her energy strands from time to time to find out how much time was left before it disappeared.

    Surprisingly, the cursory examination of the magic circle she did was actually wrong. The magic circle did not have a couple of minutes left before it dispelled, but rather, it had over ten minutes remaining before it dispelled. With that in mind, she realized that she had ced enough energy for it tost around twenty minutes or so instead of the ten minutes she first thought.

    ¡°There¡¯s still a few minutes left before the magic circle fully dispels,¡± Herellia muttered to herself as she looked at Horell from time to time. At this moment, Herellia felt that the power surrounding Horell was starting to flicker, with some of the strikes he did on the lightning pirs not having the power it used to. It was also at this moment that she noticed that the lightning pirs close to the magic circle, which were at a state of inaction before, were now making their way to where the two of them were.

    It did not take long for her to obtain the reason as to why this was happening, inwardly sighing as she muttered, ¡°It seems they¡¯ve sensed that the two of us have weakened, hence the reason why they¡¯re now making their move.¡±

    ¡°For now, I should ask Argentum to replenish the buffs on Horell,¡± she continued to mutter, thinking about the best course of action that would reduce the burden Horell was currently feeling. Without dy, she sent a strand of energy towards Argentum, not waiting for Argentum to respond before saying, ¡°Argentum, replenish the buffs on Horell as soon as possible. I feel like it¡¯s about to disappear.¡±

    ¡°Hm?¡± Argentum let out a sound in response as he extended his enhanced senses towards Horell. In a short amount of time, he was able to discern that Herellia¡¯s statement was indeed correct, prompting him to send arge number of energy balls towards Horell, allowing the aura surrounding him to return to its previous state once more.

    ¡°Alright, I¡¯ve replenished his buffs,¡± Argentum said after he was finished before adding, ¡°Anything else?¡±

    ¡°For now, nothing. Thanks,¡± Herellia said before cutting off the connection between the two of them as her sense of vision was focused on the magic circle. At this moment, the two of them were only tens of meters away from the magic circle. With an aura of relief and tion surrounding her, Herellia felt that they were going to survive this onught of lightning pirs without a problem. But just as the distance between her and the magic circle had finally reached a distance where she could directly infuse her energy¡­

    Whoosh!

    The magic circle naturally dispelled as the energy in the crimson petals forming it had finally run out. In an instant, the protection that Herellia was hoping to rely on, had vanished just like that. The emotions she felt at that moment made her slump to the ground as she let out a long sigh of defeat.

    Even though she felt like the hope of them surviving had now be bleaker, she still grasped onto this hope as tightly as possible as she told Horell, ¡°Well, it seems that the magic circle has dispelled. Should I go make another one of those magic circle things?¡±

    In response, Horell replied while still facing up against the lightning pirs, ¡°Do you have enough energy to make another one?¡±

    Herellia went silent after hearing Horell ask that question. She then went ahead and examined the insides of her body, checking the amount of energy inside her body. Not long after, she let out a sigh of slight disappointment as she shook her head and said, ¡°No.¡±

    ¡°Then, focus on recovering your energy,¡± Horell said in response to her brief statement before adding, ¡°I¡¯ve finally found a rhythm to fighting against these lightning pirs, so don¡¯t think about the time we took to head here. You still have 30 more minutes to recuperate.¡±

    ¡°Thanks, Horell,¡± Herellia said with a sigh. She then let out a light chuckle as she replied, ¡°To think that you¡¯re actually this dependable in a life and death situation.¡±

    ¡°Well, what can I say, I¡¯m forced to help you out,¡± Horell let out a nervous chuckle as he replied before continuing, ¡°I still feel like something bad to happen, even up to now.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll try to find a way out of this,¡± Herellia said to reduce Horell¡¯s worries. She then added, ¡°For now, focus on stalling for more time.¡±

    In response, Horell nodded before focusing all of his attention on controlling the weapons he had conjured through the skill he cast. As for Herellia, she decided to sit on the ground before closing her vision to ponder on what the best course of action from now on would be.

    ¡®Naturally, the best course of action for this would be to conjure a magic circle once I recover enough energy,¡¯ she thought to himself. ¡®But the amount of energy needed for me to cast one would go beyond the time Horell gave me for recuperation, so that¡¯s a pass for now.¡¯

    ¡®As for the next best course of action, it would be to fight back against the lightning pirs using the skill with that weapon I made.¡¯ As she thought up to here, she felt like the chances of them sessfully clearing all of the remaining pirs were bleak. Indeed, she was thinking of clearing all of the remaining pirs in one fell swoop instead of defending against them. Although they could stall for far longer and slowly whittle away the lightning pirs that attacked them, the current situation did not seem to be in their favor.

    ¡®All of the lightning pirs are in front of Horell, but due to how Horell is attacking them, he¡¯s only fighting against a small number of them at a time,¡¯ she thought to herself. ¡®I can recover to my peak condition before the time Horell gave me is up, but the amount of energy I would recover at that time would only be enough for two activations of those skills. In short, I can only remove 200 lightning pirs before going into that helpless state again.¡¯

    Just as her thoughts came up to this point, another thought that resonated with the other thoughts surfaced in her mind, prompting her to look at what it was. After pondering over it, this thought soon integrated itself into the n Herellia had as she felt that this would not just be the best course of action, but the ideal course of action.

    But just as she was about to start with her n, she continued to ponder a what-if scenario, asking herself, ¡°Now that I think about it, what if even if I did that, there would still be some lightning pirs remaining?¡±

    ¡°I can¡¯t afford any deviations for this type of situation,¡± Herellia muttered to himself, only to recall that there was a set of skills far stronger than the ones she used before. Unfortunately, she was not able to familiarize herself with it, although she knew that even the weakest skill in that set had a power output many times greater than the strongest skill she had used.

    ¡°It seems I have no choice but to try familiarizing myself with that skill within the time limit Horell gave me.¡± Herellia let out a sigh of defeat in response to this statement. Nevertheless, she knew that this would allow them to dispel all of the lightning pirs at once, prompting her to focus all of her attention on it as she muttered, ¡°[Blood Empress Decree: Fusion Verse, True Submission]. A skill birthed from the fusion of Submission and Domination. For one toprehend it, one must follow the saying, ¡®Once one is forced to submit, one can eventually dominate. Once one dominates, one forces others to submit.''¡±

    ¡°What does this saying mean?¡± Herellia asked herself, mulling over the saying for quite some time. Surprisingly, after a few minutes, her thoughts shifted towards the situation she was in a while ago. Just as she was wondering why her thoughts had shifted to it, it was then that she finally understood the meaning of the saying.

    ¡°Once one is forced to submit, one can eventually dominate. Once one dominates, one forces others to submit. I see! I finally understand what it means!¡± Herellia said in an excited tone as she hastily opened her sense of vision before standing up. She then hastily sent a strand of energy towards Argentum before saying, ¡°Cast all of your offense boosting spells on me! It¡¯s time to end this round!¡±

    Although he did not know why Herellia was so confident and excited, Argentum did what he was told, casting all of the offense boosting spells he had in his arsenal to increase Herellia¡¯s offensive power.

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    In an instant, the aura of power radiating from Herellia had increased to an incredible degree, prompting the lightning pirs that were attacking Horell to stop for a bit and examine what Herellia was going to do next. As for Horell, after sensing the aura Herellia was emanating, he asked her, ¡°Are you going to make a move?¡±

    ¡°Yeah.¡± Herellia nodded. ¡°Of course, continue to attack the lightning pirs while I¡¯m attacking. I¡¯m not super sure if I can dispel all of them.¡±

    ¡°Alright,¡± Horell said in response as he nodded. Then again, although he agreed to Herellia¡¯s order, he was still curious as to what Herellia was going to do, prompting her to focus most of her attention onto Herellia instead of the lightning pirs.

    As for Herellia, she looked at therge swath of lightning pirs near the two of them before gripping on the crimson halberd she held onto all this time. She then pointed it towards the sky before summoning all of the energy inside her body to head towards the tip of the halberd.

    Whoosh!

    In an instant, the de of the halberd was covered in a golden sheen, contrasting the crimson color of the de. Nevertheless, an aura of tyranny radiated from it, shocking even Horell from the sheer intensity of it. Of course, this aura was left ignored by Herellia as she focused her sense of vision towards the lightning pirs and muttered, ¡°Once one is forced to submit, one can eventually dominate. Once one dominates, one forces others to submit.¡±

    Whish! Whish!

    After saying those words, she then shed with the halberd in a cross pattern, sending arge golden X towards the lightning pirs as she shouted, ¡°[Blood Empress Decree: Fusion Verse].¡±

    ¡°[True Submission]!¡±

    ¡ª¡ª¨C

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 Chapter 309: The Final Trial

    Chapter 309: The Final Trial

    Whoosh!

    Bang! Bang! Bang!

    As therge golden X collided with the lightning pirs near them, it was as if the incarnation of death himself had passed a verdict onto these lightning pirs before they could even realize their inevitable fate. Even the slightest touch of therge golden X to one lightning pir was enough for the lightning pir to disperse, transforming into arge mass of dark blue strands that went towards Herellia¡¯s body to be absorbed.

    Noticing this, Horell was left at a loss for words as an aura of immense awe and terror surrounded him at this very instant, his attention fully focused on therge golden X that seemed to be dispersing the lightning pirs like it was cutting grass. With his attention on therge golden X instead of the skill he had cast, the skill naturally dispelled itself, but thanks to the overbearing power shown by Herellia¡¯s skill, even if he did not recast the skill, then they would still be able to wipe out the remaining lightning pirs in one go.

    Herellia¡¯s skill,bined with Argentum¡¯s offense boosting buffs, was just that overbearing.

    While looking at therge golden X dispel all of the lightning pirs like it was nothing, Herellia could not help but let out an inward sigh of relief as she muttered to herself, ¡°If those lightning pirs knew that they were the reason why I couldprehend [True Submission], then I¡¯m pretty sure that they wouldn¡¯t be able to rest in peace wherever they end up in.¡±

    What Herellia meant by the lightning pirs helping her out was due to the recent memories she had while fighting against the lightning pirs. The first sentence sheprehended was ¡®Once one dominates, one forces others to submit¡¯ as she savored the feeling of dominating over the lightning pirs with the [Domination] skill, dispelling arge amount of them at once. As for the other sentence, ¡®Once one is forced to submit, one can eventually dominate¡¯, she was only able toprehend that due to the situation where she was at her wit¡¯s end.

    Indeed, the situation where she was almost close to death under the power of the lightning pirs was the reason why she was able toprehend [True Submission] in its entirety, allowing her to cast the skill at that moment. Radiating a brief aura of fear while recalling that memory, she could not help but mutter herself, ¡°I seriously don¡¯t want others to dictate whether I live or die. It¡¯s a really bad feeling.¡±

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    As the two of them continued to focus their senses of vision towards therge golden X, therge golden X continued to hack its way through the lightning pirs multiple at a time, eventually dispelling all of the pirs that made up the trial sometimeter.

    Surprisingly, even though all of the lightning pirs were dispersed, the energy stored within therge golden X was still plentiful, allowing it to move further away from the two to who-knows-where. Then again, the two of them did not bother to think as to where it would end up as they knew that they wouldn¡¯t be able to affect any other beings as the area they chose was quite barren.

    After seeing the dark blue strands that remained from those lightning pirs head towards Herellia¡¯s body, only then did the two let out a sigh of relief as they lied down on the ground, with Herellia¡¯s reason being immense exhaustion, while Horell¡¯s reason was for the sake of not being left out. Taking in a few deep breaths to increase the rate at which she recuperated energy, she could not help but say, ¡°I seriously hope that was thest trial I have to undergo before sessfully clearing my Existence Tribtion. I feel like if I were to undergo one more trial, then I would inevitably die.¡±

    ¡°You took the words right out of my mouth,¡± Horell said before letting out a slightly boisterousugh. In response, Herellia let out a boisterousugh as well, continuing for quite some time before the two let out a sigh of contentment as they focused their vision on the dark clouds. After looking at it for a while, Herellia then focused her vision towards Horell, ¡°Even if there¡¯s one more trial, the heavens wouldn¡¯t be so cruel as to not give us any rest. So far, the lightning bolts in the clouds aren¡¯t doing anything, so that means that we can recuperate the energy we¡¯ve used in the trial.¡±

    ¡°Well, that¡¯s how it was even before this trial,¡± Horell responded as he turned his head to look at Herellia. ¡°Only now did we realize the importance of the breaks between the trials. We should really cherish it more.¡±

    ¡°Mm,¡± Herellia uttered in response to Horell¡¯s words before closing her sense of vision to focus on recuperating all of the energy she had expended. As for Horell, he closed his sense of vision as well after seeing Herellia close hers. After that, he went ahead and attuned himself to the mana in the surroundings as that was the main way he could recuperate his energy.

    While the two of them were recuperating their expended energies, Argentum looked at the two of them from afar with an aura of immense tion and relief as he let out a loudugh. Without hesitation, he shouted, ¡°Herellia¡¯s Existence Tribtion is finally over!¡±

    Although it seemed like he did the least out of the three for this trial, he was the most vignt out of the three, making sure to adapt to any situation when needed as he did not want Herellia to die¡­or at the very least, he did not want to see Aurus in a depressed state when he would awaken to the fact that Herellia died. Either way, he considered Herellia as a greatpanion, and that alone was enough for him to apany her in her Existence Tribtion.

    After realizing that her tribtion was now over, he could not help but wonder as to what species Herellia would end up as, even though he knew that she was going to be an Animate. From her current looks, Argentum spected that she was going to turn into a human, but it was not impossible for her to turn into a human with innate abilities thanks to the enhanced transitional evolution she was given. He eventually recalled the term for these types of humans thanks to Aurus¡¯s memories, knowing that they were called the Awakened.

    Other than that, he also pondered on what he should do next after the tribtion, with the first thing that came to his mind being to enhance hisprehension of the other elements to the True Element level. Once he did that, then he would fuse the four elements into the Lesser Origin element, undertake the Origin Trials, and evolve to the next grade.

    But unfortunately for him, just as he was about to share his excitement with the resting two, a sound he now slightly dreaded to hear resounded in his mind as a notification screen appeared soon after.

    Ding!

    ¡®The trial taker has sessfully passed the final trial of the heavens with flying colors! Due to the exemry prowess of power the trial taker has shown in the trial, the heavens have decided to bestow the trial taker a choice.¡¯

    ¡®The trial taker can opt to enhance their final evolution by undertaking one more trial, or they can choose not to and obtain a final evolution that would still be slightly stronger than a normal one thanks to the bonus trial they had undergone.¡¯

    ¡®Do note that because this trial is ultimately a choice of the trial taker, the repercussions of external forces directly interfering in this trial shall be nullified, allowing the trial taker to rely on others to enhance their final evolution.¡¯

    ¡®The heavens are now asking the trial taker about their choice.¡¯

    Reading through the notifications he had received on the notification screen, an aura of slight curiosity and dread radiated from him as he let out a sigh while muttering, ¡°I should¡¯ve expected the heavens to throw one more trial towards Herellia¡¯s way. How am I not surprised.¡±

    ¡°Nevertheless, if she agrees to undergo this trial, then her final evolution would most likely be that of an Awakened human. And if she doesn¡¯t, I guess she would be a human with slightly higher stats,¡± Argentum muttered to himself as he felt that the long term benefits of the former would be far greater than thetter. Then again, he still had to consider Herellia¡¯s current condition, which might lead her to declining the option to enhance her evolution.

    ¡°I wonder what she¡¯ll choose?¡± Argentum asked himself soon after, only to be left at a loss for words as he heard a familiar voice resound in his mind.

    ¡°Hey, Argentum. You there?¡± Of course, this voice came from none other than Herellia, asking him a question. Without dy, he responded, ¡°Yeah? What¡¯s up?¡±

    ¡°Did you obtain any message from the system regarding this choice thing that dictates my future?¡± Herellia asked soon after, to which Argentum replied, ¡°Yeah. Did the heavens exin what your choices were?¡±

    ¡°The heavens told me that I had the choice between undergoing another trial and declining to finally undergo my final evolution,¡± Herellia answered his question before adding, ¡°They also told me that if I underwent another trial, then my final evolution would be enhanced, just like my current evolution.¡±

    ¡°What do you think I should choose?¡± she asked once more, prompting Argentum to ponder over it. Fortunately, it did not take long for him toe up with an answer as he replied, ¡°Well, to be honest, the choice is up to you. Whatever you choose between the two, I and Horell would support you no matter what to the bitter end.¡±

    In response to those words, Herellia went silent for a bit before finally responding, ¡°Alright. I¡¯ve made my choice.¡±

    Whoosh!

    After that, the connection between them was cut off while Argentum was left to wait for the notification from the system as he knew that the notifications were not over yet. Thankfully, he did not have to wait for a long time as a notification sound resounded in his mind around half a minuteter after the connection between him and Herellia was cut off.

    Without dy, hemanded the system to open up the notification screen in his mind before reading through it. Surprisingly, the solemn aura that was radiating from Argentum after his conversation with Herellia¡­had instantly transformed into that remorse and regret as he said to himself, ¡°Are the heavens ying a prank on us? Now I incredibly regret saying those words.¡±

    Ding!

    ¡®The heavens have now obtained the response of the trial taker. The trial taker has opted to undergo another trial in order to enhance their final evolution!¡¯

    ¡®Since not a lot of time has passed since the trial taker¡¯s previous trial, the heavens have decided to allow the trial taker to rest for longer in order to survive the final trial!¡¯

    ¡®The heavens are now deciding on the final trial of the trial taker.¡¯

    ¡®Taking into consideration the trial taker¡¯s currentbat power, as well as the indirect and direct interferences that have been made by external forces¡­¡¯

    ¡®The heavens have finally decided on the trial taker¡¯s final trial!¡¯

    ¡®The name of the trial is¡­¡¯

    ¡®Dual Millennium Genesis Strike!¡¯

    ¡°You¡¯ve seriously got to be kidding me,¡± Argentum said to himself as the aura of remorse and regret around him intensified. ¡°Genesis-level lightning bolts? That should only start appearing once one undergoes Primordial Awakening!¡±

    Rummaging through Aurus¡¯s memories, he found out that Abyss-level lightning bolts were the strongest lightning bolts that could appear on a being¡¯s Existence Tribtion. As for Genesis-level lightning bolts, which were one level above Abyss-level bolts, those bolts would only start to appear once one underwent Primordial Awakening, or the tribtion that an Animate would have to go to ascend to a Rank 6 ss from a Rank 5 ss.

    At this point, he did not want to specte what type of trial they were about to undertake. No, it would be better for him to say that he did not dare specte what kind of trial they were about to undertake as he knew that, if the three weren¡¯t fully prepared, then they would undoubtedly die from a single Genesis-level bolt.

    Ding!

    Just as he was about to make his way to where Herellia and Horell were, another notification sound resounded in his mind, prompting him to look at his notification screen once more. As he wondered if the new notifications contained bad news, the aura of remorse and regret surrounding him was finally reced with slight relief as the new notifications offered them a bit of hope.

    ¡®As this trial is a bonus trial that exceeds the power of a normal Existence Tribtion, the heavens have decided that, if the trial taker were to fail this trial, then the only penalty the trial taker would suffer would be a diminished final evolution. Although the effects of the enhanced transitional evolution would not be as prominent, it would still be slightly better than a normal final evolution.¡¯

    ¡®The heavens have decided to give the trial taker a tip.¡¯

    ¡®Survive.¡¯

    Whoosh!

    As he closed the notification screen, he then looked at the dark clouds and muttered to himself, ¡°Er¡­can you really call that a tip?¡±

    Nevertheless, he took the tip given to him seriously as he had a hunch that Herellia would obtain an incredibly strong final evolution after surviving the trial.

    And with that, he went ahead and cast all of the movement speed boosting buffs in his arsenal on himself before heading to where Herellia and Horell were, both of them nonchnt to the true nightmarish properties of the trial that was about to strike them.

    ¡ª¡ª¨C

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 Chapter 310: Going All Out

    Chapter 310: Going All Out

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    Thanks to the effects of the movement speed boosting spells Argentum had cast on himself stacking on top of one another, it did not take long for him to arrive at where Herellia and Horell were lying down, surprising the two at the instant he had arrived.

    ¡°Argentum? What are you doing here?¡± Noticing that Argentum was now in front of them, Horell immediately sat upright before focusing his sense of vision onto Argentum as he asked his question. In response, Argentum focused his sense of vision towards Herellia for a bit before responding, ¡°Herellia told me toe here. She wanted me toe here to talk about the next round of lightning boltsing our way.¡±

    Hearing her name being mentioned, Herellia instantly sat upright before looking at Argentum, pointing at herself, and asking, ¡°I did?¡±

    Just as a brief aura of confusion radiated from her due to the statement Argentum let out, she noticed that there was something different to the aura surrounding Argentum. It was as if he was trying to say something to her, prompting her to read between the lines of Argentum¡¯s previous statement. Fortunately, it did not take long for her to catch on as she said with an aura of understanding, ¡°Ah, that¡¯s right. I did.¡±

    Soon after that, Herellia went ahead and established a connection with Argentum, leaving Horell, who wanted to ask the two of them questions about the next round of lightning bolts, in a state of suspense.

    ¡°What was that all about?¡± This was the first thing Herellia asked Argentum at the very moment the connection between the two of them was established. In response, Argentum let out a light sigh as he responded, ¡°Some time ago, Horell wanted to be of more use to you, so he told me to tell him about the mechanics of the next trial. Of course, I can¡¯t tell him that the mechanics of the next trial came from me, right?¡±

    ¡°So you told him that it came from me instead?¡± Herellia said, only to ponder over it for a bit before saying, ¡°Well, yeah. That makes tons of sense.¡±

    After removing the confusion she had regarding the situation that popped up just as Argentum had arrived, Herellia then moved onto the main agenda as she asked him, ¡°With that out of the way, what¡¯s the real reason why you came to where we were?¡±

    ¡°What else could it be other than the next trial you agreed to undergo?¡± Argentum answered Herellia¡¯s question with a question of his own, taking on a slightly snarky tone. He then let out a long sigh before saying, ¡°I seriously regret telling you that you can choose whatever you want. If I knew that the next trial would be this scary, then I would have told you to reject it outright.¡±

    ¡°Wh-what do you mean by that?¡± Feeling the aura of remorse surrounding Argentum as he said that statement, Herellia could not help but feel slightly fearful for the next trial that was about to hit the three of them. In response to her question, Argentum said, ¡°The next trial isposed of lightning bolts one level higher than the dark blue ones you just fought against.¡±

    ¡°Are these new bolts dangerous?¡± Herellia went ahead and asked, to which Argentum replied in a grave tone, ¡°Well, a single bolt of that level would decimate all three of us at once. Is that dangerous enough for you?¡±

    ¡°That dangerous?¡± Listening to Argentum¡¯s words, an aura of great dread radiated from her in an instant, which she had hastily suppressed, knowing that Horell was adamantly looking at the two of them, waiting for them to start speaking up to him. After suppressing her aura of dread, she continued to focus her sense of vision onto Argentum and asked, ¡°Do you know how many of those bolts are we going to face in the next round?¡±

    ¡°No clue at all,¡± Argentum replied, only to add, ¡°Well¡­whates to your mind when you hear the words ¡®Dual Millennium¡¯?¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t know. What do those words mean?¡± Herellia said without dy, to which Argentum responded by radiating an aura of brief confusion. Not long after, he presumed that Herellia did not know what numbers were¡­well, to be more exact, other words for numbers like dual and millennium.

    ¡°Either way, we¡¯re up against quite a lot of these new bolts, with the heavens even giving me a tip. Wanna hear what the tip they gave was?¡± Argentum continued to talk, with Herellia replying, ¡°Sure.¡±

    ¡°Survive. That¡¯s the only tip they gave me,¡± Argentum said in response to Herellia¡¯s words, prompting her to say, ¡°Seriously? That¡¯s all they gave you?¡±

    ¡°Yeah. We could assume that the heavens mean that we should be prepared as much as possible for the bolts that are about to arrive,¡± Argentum responded to Herellia¡¯s question with this statement before telling her that it was now a good time for them to talk about the next trial with Horell.

    Noticing that both Herellia and Argentum were not preupied anymore, the aura of being in constant suspense had finally been reced with that of relief and concern as he asked the two of them, ¡°So¡­what¡¯s the next trial about?¡±

    ¡°We¡¯re up against lightning bolts one level higher than the ones we¡¯ve faced some time ago,¡± Herellia was the one who responded to his question. After bing silent for a bit, he then continued to ask the two of them, saying, ¡°How many of these bolts are we up against?¡±

    ¡°It could either be 2,000 of them¡­or a million.¡± This time, Argentum was the one who responded to his question, making Horell radiate an aura of immense fear and terror as he looked at Argentum and said, ¡°You¡¯re joking, right? A million of them?¡±

    Even Herellia could not believe what she was hearing, wondering where such a big number came from. In response, Argentum let out a light chuckle as he said, ¡°Well, there¡¯s a possibility for the next round to have one million boltsing down to strike us.¡±

    ¡°Can I¡­can I not participate in this trial?¡± Horell said at the very instant Argentum was finished talking, making thetter radiate a solemn aura as he replied, ¡°Unfortunately, you can¡¯t. If you don¡¯t help Herellia out with me in this trial, then Herellia will undoubtedly die.¡±

    ¡°Are you serious, Argentum?¡± Horell said with a shocked tone, only for him to recall the second sentence Argentum said to him, turning the aura of fear surrounding him into that of slight tion. ¡°You¡¯re joining us?¡±

    ¡°Yeah.¡± Argentum nodded before saying, ¡°It¡¯s more or less the reason why I¡¯m here with you guys.¡±

    Rumble¡­

    Just as Argentum was finished talking, a loud rumble resounded from the dark clouds, giving off the intent that the lightning bolts inside the dark clouds were charging up their final blow that would smite Herellia once and for all. Although that message was left ignored by the three of them, what was left unignored was the fact that the dark blue lightning bolts were congregating in certain areas of the dark clouds before fusing as one, forming a lightning bolt that radiated a level of destructive intent and power far greater than any normal being who underwent an Existence Tribtion would witness.

    Amidst the dark clouds, this new lightning bolt gave off an intense white glow that set it apart from the dark blue lightning bolts surrounding it. Then again, the lightning bolt seemed to be made out of pure white energy, as if the energy contained within it was incredibly pure. Nevertheless, this seemingly pure energy was made with the intent to hinder Herellia from seeding in this trial.

    Naturally, more and more of these lightning bolts were being formed as time passed. But as the trio continued to look at the dark clouds, they noticed that the number of dark blue lightning bolts were not diminishing at all, but rather, increasing alongside the white lightning bolts. Although they were curious as to why that was the case, they knew that they could not afford to get distracted by the lightning bolts at this moment, prompting both Horell and Herellia to stand up before looking at Argentum.

    ¡°What¡¯s the n this time around?¡± Herellia asked Argentum. As for Horell, he silently looked at Argentum with an aura of expectation surrounding him, waiting for his orders.

    In response, Argentum went silent for quite some time as he looked at the white lightning bolts that were forming in the dark clouds before looking at the two in front of him. After doing this a few times, he focused his sense of vision onto the two of them before saying, ¡°First off, we¡¯re going to go all out on our attacks against these white lightning bolts. I have a feeling that these things are more intelligent than the dark blue ones you guys faced before.¡±

    ¡°Second, before the trial starts, I¡¯m going to cast all of the buffs I have in my arsenal on the three of us in order to make sure that we take out a lot of these white bolts with one attack,¡± he continued to exin the n he had in mind.

    ¡°Third, before we start attacking these white bolts, the two of you go ahead and cast your strongest defensive skills over the three of us,¡± Argentum said before taking in a deep breath and asking them, ¡°Is that clear?¡±

    ¡°Regarding the third step, aren¡¯t you going to cast a defensive skill as well?¡± Horell asked, feeling that something about the third step was off. But rather than obtaining a straightforward response from Argentum, he instead let out a light chuckle as he replied, ¡°You¡¯ll see when the timees.¡±

    ¡­

    And so, as the three waited for the final round of lightning bolts toe crashing down from the skies, they made sure that they were in their peak condition, both physically and mentally. Horell attuned himself with the energy in his surroundings, Herellia familiarized herself with the newlyprehended [True Submission] skill even more, while Argentum focused his vision on the dark clouds, making sure to alert the two at the very instant the lightning bolts starteding down.

    Rumble¡­

    Just as the three of them thought that it would take longer for the next round to start, a loud rumble resounded from the dark clouds once more as multiple areas on the dark clouds started to glow an intense white. At that instant, Herellia and Horell stopped what they were doing and focused their vision on the dark clouds while being attentive to Argentum¡¯s every order.

    ¡°Horell, cast all of your buffs on all of us,¡± Argentum said to Horell as he continued to look at the dark clouds, focusing his vision on one of the glowing spots. In response to Argentum¡¯s order, Horell lightly nodded before conjuring multiple balls of cyan energy, which were absorbed by the three of them not long after. Although most of Horell¡¯s buffs were on the auxiliary side of buffs, it would allow the three of them tost longer in their offensive.

    After noticing that Horell was done casting his spells, Argentum went ahead and cast all of the spells in his arsenal, only for him to stop for a bit as he mulled over something. Fortunately, it did not take long for him to finish mulling as he went and started to mutter an incantation. Soon after, he smashed both of his hands to the ground, sending arge wave of energy as thendscape within a certain radius around him started to change.

    ¡°[Niflheim Horizon]!¡±

    Whoosh!

    In an instant, a great area surrounding him had been turned into ice, shocking the two of them. But just as they thought that they would feel an immense chill from the area, they did not feel anything at all, prompting the two of them to look at Argentum with curious auras surrounding them. In response to their gazes, Argentum let out a light chuckle as he replied, ¡°You¡¯ll see once I start casting all of my buffs.¡±

    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!

    After saying those words, Argentum then went ahead and cast all of his buffs to all of them, starting with the Wind-based enhancement spells, then the Fire-based enhancement spells, andstly¡­the Water-based enhancement spells.

    ¡°Hm?¡± After allowing one of the blue energy balls to be absorbed by her body, Herellia could not help but be surprised as she felt a familiar feeling from before, but it was amplified onefold. Even Horell, who was familiar with Argentum¡¯s buffs after absorbing all of them some time ago, was left at a loss for words as he felt that a great portion of his buffs had be twice as powerful.

    Before the two of them could ask the reason as to why this happened, Argentum noticed that a change had urred to the glowing spots on the dark clouds, prompting him to shout at the two of them, ¡°Get ready to attack!¡±

    Bzzt¡­crash!

    Coincidentally, at the very instant Argentum was finished talking, the glowing spots had finally burst, sending out arge number of white lightning bolts towards the three of them. To be more exact, these white lightning bolts took on the form of raindrops, which unsurprisingly confused the three of them at the very first instance they noticed this. Nevertheless, they knew that each of these ¡®lightning drops¡¯ contained an immense amount of power, prompting the three of them to be vignt at all times.

    ¡°Cast your barriers!¡± As Argentum looked at the white lightning drops get closer to where they were, he shouted this order at both Herellia and Horell, with both of them instantly making a move as a barrier made out of cyan energy appeared around them in less than an instant. Soon after, a crimson magic circle appeared on top of the cyan barrier,surprisingly melding with the cyan barrier slightly and enhancing its defensive properties.

    Bang! Bang! Bang!

    Of course, due to the inherent force contained in each lightning drop, the defensive skills were only able to dy the white lightning drops for a short time. Unsurprisingly, every lightning drop passed through the barriers like butter before colliding with the ground like a normal raindrop¡­if you excluded the shockwave that came from each collision, of course.

    Naturally, with the three of them having the ability to hover off the ground thanks to their powers, the three of them ignored these shockwaves as their senses were focused on the remaining lightning drops that had not collided with the ground yet. Without hesitation, Argentum ordered one more time as he shouted, ¡°Attack the lightning drops with all you got!¡±

    Whish! Whish!

    ¡°[Blood Empress Decree: Fusion Verse, True Submission]!¡±

    Fwoosh!

    ¡°[Gate of Myriad Armaments, Part Three: World of Armis]!¡±

    Swish! Swish! Swish!

    ¡°[Blessed Water Magic]¡­¡±

    ¡°[Eighty-One Meteors of Frozen Grandeur]!¡±

    ¡ª¡ª¨C

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 Chapter 311: The Heavens and Its Jokes

    Chapter 311: The Heavens and Its Jokes

    Propelled by the great amounts of energy that were infused in the attacks, the three attacks sent out by the trio towards the white lightning drops had arrived at their respective areas, wreaking havoc to a great number of the white lightning drops as the two collided.

    Bang!

    The first one to collide with the white lightning drops was Herellia¡¯s [True Submission] skill in the form of arge golden X. Thanks to the increase inbat power brought about by Argentum¡¯s enhanced buffs, the power inherent in therge golden X was enough for arge number of white lightning drops to be dispelled, though after being dispelled, no white strands were formed. At first, Herellia could not help but radiate an aura of confusion after seeing thismon phenomenon not appear on the white lightning drops, but after she remembered that this trial was a trial that allowed her to obtain an enhanced final evolution, she finally understood why this was happening.

    Nevertheless, she still could not help but ask herself, ¡°If this trial did not form any strands that boosted my power, then why did that other trial form strands?¡±

    The other trial that Herellia was talking about was none other than the bonus trial she underwent after she was finished with the second trial. The reward of that bonus trial was the same as the current trial the trio were undertaking, giving her an enhancement to her evolution. But even though the reward was the same, only the earlier bonus trial gave her strands that increased her power. Just as she was about to mull over the question even more, she hastily realized that there was no point in finding the answer to it, feeling that she would enter a deep hole if she forced herself to do so.

    The next one to collide was Horell¡¯srge swath of weapons. The reason why there was a dy between Herellia¡¯s skill and his was that he still had to manually control the weapons that were made from therge sphere that he had conjured. Nevertheless, the number of white lightning drops that were dispelled by his attack was actually far greater in number whenpared to Herellia. This was because he was manually controlling every weapon that came from therge sphere, hence he controlled these weapons to cover arge area.

    Nevertheless, the number of white lightning drops Horell had dispelled paled inparison to the number of lightning drops Argentum had dispelled with his attack. From the name of the spell Argentum had used, 81 meteors were conjured out of nowhere, shing with the lightning drops that were in their way before exploding into arge mass of frosty shrapnel, which also dispelled more lightning drops in the process.

    Seeing this attack dispel arge number of white lightning drops in one move, Horell and Herellia, whose attacksnded on the lightning drops first, could not help but look at Argentum, who was intently looking at the collision of the meteors and mutter to themselves, ¡°Monster!¡±

    Unsurprisingly, with the help of his enhanced senses, Argentum was able to hear this word being muttered by the two of them, prompting him to let out an awkward chuckle as he said in response, ¡°Just so you know, Herellia¡¯s going to be the bigger monster after this trial is done.¡±

    After saying those words, Argentum returned his focus to the meteors, allowing the meteors to collide with the lightning drops one by one. Eventually, all 81 meteors had done their job, clearing out arge number of lightning drops to the point that only a quarter of the original amount was left hovering in midair.

    Seeing this, the trio could not help but exude auras of excitement, only for it to turn into shock as they noticed that more lightning drops started to drop from the dark clouds, recing the lightning drops that had been dispelled by their attacks. Although Argentum felt that something was off, he looked at Herellia and Horell before looking back at the lightning drops and shouting once more, ¡°Attack!¡±

    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!

    And just like that, the three of them used their ultimate attacks one more time, dispelling arge portion of the white lightning drops that were in their surroundings. Unfortunately for them, just as they thought that the number of lightning drops would stay fixed at that time, more white lightning drops fell from the dark clouds, recing the lightning drops that were dispelled once more. While this was happening, the other lightning drops continued to drop from the sky and collide with the ground, formingrge shockwaves. Of course, these shockwaves did not affect the three as they hovered off the ground.

    Nevertheless, a confused aura was evidently exuding out of the trio, wondering why the lightning drops that they dispelled were being reced by more lightning drops. This thought circted inside Herellia and Horell¡¯s minds as they did not know the true name of the trial. As for Argentum though, after seeing the lightning drops being reced every time they made an attack, he had a hunch that the meaning he obtained from the name of the trial was actually quite different from the real thing.

    ¡®How many lightning drops are currently in the surroundings right now?¡± Argentum asked himself, feeling that he would obtain the answer he was looking for as long as he knew the number of lightning drops at the moment. Without hesitation, he utilized his enhanced senses to the fullest extent before hastily counting all of the lightning drops that did not collide with the ground yet. It did not take long for him to find out that the number of lightning drops in midair had exceeded 2,000, which made him instantly conclude that his first hypothesis of the trial was, in fact, wrong.

    In hindsight, this hypothesis was something he mentioned to Horell as an answer to the number of lightning bolts that were going to hit him. Realizing this, Argentum could not help but inwardly let out a mockingugh as he muttered to himself, ¡°To think that I¡¯ve actually jinxed this trial without me knowing. Then again, I can¡¯t really jinx something that has already been destined to happen.¡±

    ¡°Doesn¡¯t change the fact that we¡¯re facing against a million of these white lightning drops,¡± Argentum continued to mutter to himself as he looked at the two in front of him. At the moment, the two of them were radiating auras of determination as they were prepared to send out another wave of attack. Unfortunately for them, they wouldn¡¯t be able to unleash one more attack as Argentum shouted, ¡°Herellia, Horell, change of ns. Stop attacking.¡±

    ¡°Wait¡­what?¡± At first, the two of them could not help but wonder if they had heard Argentum¡¯s words wrongly. With that in mind, Herellia was the first one to ask, saying, ¡°Did you just tell us to stop attacking, Argentum?¡±

    ¡°Yeah.¡± Argentum nodded, prompting the two to look at each other before looking back at Argentum. Soon after, Horell focused his sense of vision on him before asking, ¡°Why¡¯s that?¡±

    ¡°I just found out that we¡¯re up against a million of those lightning drops,¡± Argentum said in response to Horell¡¯s question, eliciting an aura of fear and shock to radiate from both Herellia and Horell, which they hastily suppressed soon after. He then continued, ¡°Although we can continue to attack these guys as long as we have enough energy, we have to remember that there are limits to our regeneration rates. Once we exhaust all of our energy, all of us are more or less susceptible to being hit by the white lightning drops.¡±

    ¡°In other words, we die,¡± Argentum emphasized this point, although he knew that they wouldn¡¯t actually die after being hit by the white lightning drops. He only said this in order for them to listen to his words. And well, to say the least, it unsurprisingly worked, with Herellia dispelling the crimson halberd she was wielding all this time while Horell retracted the energy he had released.

    At this moment, the two of them were waiting for Argentum¡¯s next words as they knew that they wouldn¡¯t have reached this point if it wasn¡¯t for Argentum. Although Herellia knew how an Existence Tribtion worked, she knew that she wouldn¡¯t be able to react to the abrupt changes of the trials in time. As for Horell, he only had an inkling of knowledge regarding Existence Tribtions, so he knew that he had no say over them.

    Seeing that the two of them were waiting for his next words, Argentum looked at the barriers that covered them and said, ¡°For now, fortify the barriers surrounding us. After that, we¡¯ll think up of a method to survive this ordeal.¡±

    With the two of them nodding, Herellia and Horell went ahead and started to infuse their energies into their respective defensive skills, repairing them to a state where it seemed that they had not been hit by the white lightning drops. Sadly, even though they repaired their barriers, the white lightning drops continued to pierce through skills like a hot knife cutting through butter, colliding with the ground below them without a problem.

    Noticing this, Argentum went ahead and used one of the innate spells he had obtained after evolving [Sage¡¯s Water Magic] to a higher grade. Although this was the first time he was going to use it, he already knew its effects and had a hunch that it would shine under the influence of [Niflheim Horizon].

    Without dy, he started to mutter the incantations for this innate spell before mming his palms onto the ground once more as he shouted, ¡°[Niflheim Aegis Dominion]!¡±

    Whoosh!

    In an instant, an energy far stronger than the energy that made up the ice covering their surroundings spread throughout the area before arriving at the edges of the defensive skills Herellia and Horell had created. Just as they wondered what the energy was going to do, the energy went ahead and covered the two defensive skills before forming a thickyer of frost that seemed to radiate the intent of being imprable.

    Seeing that his skill was sessfully cast, Argentum could not help but let out an aura of tion, only for this aura to disappear as he saw the white lightning drops pass through the thickyer of frost without a problem, colliding with the ground once more. At this point, an aura of slight fury radiated from him, wondering why the defensive skills they threw at the white lightning drops wouldn¡¯t work at all.

    Fortunately, it was at this moment that he noticed that the white lightning drops were following a certain pattern while looking at the holes made by the lightning drops on the thick frostyer he conjured. Wondering if his hypothesis was correct, he went ahead and dispelled the thickyer of frost covering them, causing Horell to radiate an aura of fear as he asked Argentum, ¡°What are you doing, Argentu¡ª¡±

    ¡°Shut up for a second.¡± Before Horell could finish his question, Argentum interrupted him, telling him to be quiet. After making sure that Horell was quiet, he then looked at the white lightning drops that were slightly farther away from the three of them, making sure to use his enhanced senses to the fullest to make sure that his hypothesis was correct.

    After about five minutes or so of careful examination, Argentum let out a long sigh as he blurted out, ¡°You¡¯ve got to be kidding me. Do the heavens think that the trials a trial taker needs to undertake are a big joke?¡±

    Hearing Argentum¡¯s words, Herellia and Horell were left at a loss for words before the two of them looked at each other, wondering what Argentum was talking about. Thankfully, after he said those words, Argentum started to exin the reason why he said those words, with his vision focused on the two before saying, ¡°This trial is actually incredibly easy.¡±

    ¡°By easy, do you mean easy to sumb to death?¡± Horell asked, to which Argentum replied by radiating his aura of power towards Horell, forcing him to be silent. Seeing that Argentum was not joking around, Herellia went ahead and asked him, ¡°What do you mean by that, Argentum?¡±

    ¡°All of the lightning drops fall straight down to the ground,¡± Argentum said in response to her question. He then continued, ¡°As long as one doesn¡¯t disturb a lightning drop through an attack or any other means, then it would unconditionally fall and collide with the ground.¡±

    ¡°By that, you mean¡­¡± At this moment, Herellia felt like she now understood what Argentum was trying to say, an aura of slight expectation radiating from her. In response to her words, Argentum replied, ¡°That¡¯s right. Dispel the barriers. We¡¯re going to dodge the lightning drops until all of them collide with the ground.¡±

    Whoosh!

    Without hesitation, Herellia went ahead and recalled the energy she infused into the crimson magic circle above their heads, dispelling the magic circle in an instant. After that, she went silent for a bit before sending a punch towards the cyan barrier Horell cast around them, shattering it in one hit thanks to the buffs they had. In response to his barrier being shattered, Horell could not help but look at the two in front of him and ask them, ¡°Have you two¡­perhaps¡­lost your minds?¡±

    ¡°Horell, do you¡ª¡± Just as Herellia was about to persuade her way to make Horell believe what they were saying a while ago, Argentum interrupted her from continuing before looking at Horell and saying, ¡°It¡¯s up to you if you believe us or not. You can cast another barrier around you and wait for it to look like Swiss cheese, ore and join us in avoiding the white lightning drops.¡±

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    After saying those words, Argentum then utilized the entirety of the strength inside his body before dashing out towards a certain area, making sure to dodge the white lightning drops that were about to fall to the ground along the way. As for Herellia, she looked at Horell for a bit before deciding to dash towards another area as well, doing the same thing as Argentum while she made her way towards the location she had in mind.

    Seeing that the two actually distanced themselves from him, Horell could not help but mutter to himself, ¡°I may be cowardly, but I¡¯m not stupid. If it was that easy in the first ce, then the trial would¡¯ve been over already.¡±

    After saying those words, Horell then focused his vision to a point directly above him, only to see that a white lightning drop was only a couple of meters away from him. At first, he thought that he would cast a defensive barrier before moving away from it, but then, after remembering Argentum¡¯s words, he could not help but have second thoughts over his decision.

    ¡°Ah, fine. Fine. I¡¯ll do as what you say, Argentum,¡± Horell muttered to himself in a defeated tone before continuing, ¡°But you better tell me what Swiss cheese is after this.¡±

    Whoosh!

    Without hesitation, Horell took a step backward, easily dodging the white lightning drop that was about to hit him. Unsurprisingly, that alone was enough for him to retract his previous statements and say, ¡°Well then.¡±

    ¡°I guess I¡¯m stupid.¡±

    And with that, the three of them dodged the white lightning drops that were about to fall on them with great ease thanks to the buffs that the three had on their bodies. Eventually, after what seemed to be a long time, no more new lightning drops fell from the dark clouds, signaling that the trial was now over.

    ¡ª¡ª¨C

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 Chapter 312: Animate of the Tempest Cliff

    Chapter 312: Animate of the Tempest Cliff

    ¡°Haah¡­haah¡­¡± After the trio was done dodging all of the lightning drops that fell from the dark clouds, the first thing they did was to congregate in the middle of their respective locations and look at each other with auras of tion and relief. They then went ahead and looked at the dark clouds for a short bit, briefly radiating an aura of fear as they wondered if more lightning bolts woulde striking down after what they had gone through. Fortunately, after looking at the dark clouds for a while, no glowing spots could be seen on it, hence that meant that Herellia¡¯s Existence Tribtion was finally over.

    ¡°It¡¯s finally over,¡± Argentum was the first one to talk among the three, focusing his sense of vision towards Herellia before saying, ¡°Congrattions, Herellia. From now on, you¡¯re going to be a fully-fledged Animate.¡±

    In response, Herellia let out a light chuckle as she focused her vision onto Argentum before replying, ¡°Hehe. In that case, I¡¯ll be thanking you in advance. You¡¯re pretty much the reason why I was able to sessfully clear my Existence Tribtion. On top of that, with your help, you even allowed me to enhance my evolutions! Twice!¡±

    As for Horell, although he was excited that the trial was already over and that Herellia was now going to evolve, an aura of slight surprise emanated from him as he was still in disbelief that there were no more trials after what seemed to be such a gruesome trial¡­which did be easy at the end. With that in mind, he looked at Argentum and asked in an uncertain tone, ¡°Argentum, is Herellia¡¯s Existence Tribtion really over? From how we cleared the trial without much of a problem, surely there would be another trial after that, right?¡±

    ¡°Hoh?¡± Listening to Horell¡¯s words, Argentum could not help but tease Horell as he replied with a light chuckle, ¡°Do you really want to undergo one more trial? Well, I¡¯ll satisfy your wishes right here and now!¡±

    It was at this moment that Argentum was not joking with his earlier words at all, prompting Horell to radiate an aura of fear as he imagined what Argentum would do to him to fulfill his previous words. Without hesitation, he moved a few steps back as he replied, ¡°I was just joking! Just joking! I don¡¯t want to undergo such a hellish trial like that anymore!¡±

    Hearing Horell¡¯s pleas, Argentum and Herellia could not help but look at each other in silence before looking back at Horell and letting out boisterousughter simultaneously. At this time, Horell radiated an embarrassed aura, which was soon reced with another aura as he let out augh of his own, recalling what had happened in the Existence Tribtion.

    After some time, the three of them were finally finishedughing, with Argentum looking at Herellia and asking, ¡°So¡­do you have any clue as to what type of human you¡¯re going to evolve into?¡±

    ¡°There are types between humans?¡± Herellia instantly let out an aura of slight shock after listening to Argentum¡¯s question. In her mind, she only knew that any Inanimate that evolved into an Animate would be the same in terms ofbat power. But ording to Argentum¡¯s words, there seemed to be other types of humans than the one she knew?

    Noticing the aura surrounding Herellia¡¯s body, Argentum quickly responded to Herellia¡¯s question, exining, ¡°In general, there are two broad types of humans in this world. There¡¯s the normal humans, and there¡¯s¡­¡±

    ¡°The Awakened,¡± Argentum emphasized his voice on these two words. With him emphasizing those words, Herellia knew that she had to know more about thetter two as she already had a few ideas regarding the first type. Without hesitation, she asked him, ¡°What are the Awakened?¡±

    Recalling all of the information Aurus knew about the Awakened through his memories, Argentum went silent for a bit before responding, ¡°In short, the Awakened are humans that are born with an innate ability. Innate abilities are more or less the skills we use every so often. If we were to get more specific, there are multiple branches and types of Awakened humans. The only thing you have to remember is that an Awakened is significantly stronger than a normal human at Rank 0.¡±

    Hastily processing and organizing the information she had obtained from Argentum, Herellia nodded her head, only for another question to pop into her mind as she looked at Argentum and asked, ¡°How do you know all of these?¡±

    Naturally, Argentum could not say that he knew all of these thanks to Aurus¡¯s memories. And so, utilizing his quick wits as a Pseudo-Animate, he radiated an aura of slight confidence as he replied, ¡°I obtained some information regarding Animates here and there from my journey. Even Aurus doesn¡¯t know anything about this?¡±

    ¡°Even Aurus?¡± Herellia let out an aura of surprise as she first felt that Aurus, as a clone of Argentum, would be more knowledgeable about these sorts of thingspared to his clone. Of course, she was indeed correct in that thinking, but thanks to Argentum¡¯s persuasive words, her thoughts had been shifted to another ce, prompting her to respond, ¡°I see.¡±

    Rumble¡­

    After a moment of silence ensued between the three of them, the dark clouds started to rumble after what seemed to be a long time. Without dy, the three of them looked at the dark clouds and noticed that the dark blue lightning bolts and the white lightning bolts were now mingling with each other. While this was happening, Argentum noticed that the lightning bolts were exuding a peculiar intent. Without hesitation, he used his enhanced senses to glean information regarding the intent, only to be left at a loss for words as he muttered, ¡°The lightning bolts¡­are actually joyous that Herellia passed through the trials?¡±

    Although he felt that it was weird, he ced this thought at the back of his head as the current event was indeed a thing meant to be celebrated. Not long after, the two bolts started to fuse as one, forming into a lightning bolt that the trio was familiar with, a lightning bolt that only popped up whenever Herellia was going to evolve.

    ¡°The rainbow lightning bolts areing,¡± Herellia said to herself before looking at Horell and Argentum in front of him. With an aura of excitement and teasing surrounding her, Herellia told them, ¡°I¡¯ll be separating from you to for a while. For now, stay here. Whatever happens to me, don¡¯t move.¡±

    Instantly thinking what was going on in her mind, Argentum let out a giggle before replying, ¡°Alright, we¡¯ll stay here.¡± As for Horell, he lightly nodded before radiating an aura of happiness, saying, ¡°I¡¯m quite eager to see what you evolve into, Herellia.¡±

    Whoosh!

    And with that, Herellia had departed from the vicinity of the two, heading towards another part of the surroundings they were in. Unsurprisingly, Argentum went ahead and used his enhanced senses to find out where Herellia stopped, eventually seeing that Herellia stopped near some of the trees in order to shroud her evolution even more. With a lighthearted sigh, Argentum looked at the dark clouds before sitting on the ground, waiting for Herellia¡¯s evolution toe.

    Rumble¡­rumble¡­

    After a few more minutes of waiting, another rumble resounded from the dark clouds, carrying intent within it. Without dy, Argentum used his enhanced senses to find out what the intent contained, only to look at Horell, who was sitting beside him, and say, ¡°Herellia¡¯s about to evolve.¡±

    Hearing those wordse from Argentum, Horell could not help but radiate an aura of excitement and expectation, incredibly eager to see Herellia¡¯s final form after the Existence Tribtion. As for Argentum, after saying those words, he focused his vision onto the glowing spot in the middle of the dark clouds, which radiated an incredibly intense glow consisting of various colors.

    Not only that, but the intent of life and nurturing contained with the iridescent spot was almost a thousand times more intense than the previous batch of iridescent lightning bolts. It was at this moment that Argentum confirmed that the intent of life and nurturing contained within the iridescent lightning bolts was due to the type of lightning bolts being used to make them. Naturally, with both Abyss-level and Genesis-level lightning bolts being used to form this batch of iridescent lightning bolts, it came without saying that the species Herellia would evolve into would be nothing short of amazing.

    Bzzt¡­crash!

    And so, after another minute, the glowing spot in the middle had finally broken, sending forth arge number of iridescent lightning bolts towards a certain spot on the ground. Of course, this spot was none other than the spot Herellia stopped at in order to greet the iridescent lightning bolts. It also came without saying that thanks to the strong intent behind the iridescent lightning bolts, the trees that surrounded Herellia at that moment had been felled without a problem, allowing both Horell and Argentum to barely see what was currently happening to Herellia.

    Then again, the only thing they could see from where they were was the cocoon of iridescent light that covered Herellia while she was in the process of evolution. Nevertheless, this sight was enough for the two to be at ease as they waited for Herellia to finish with her evolution. Unfortunately for them, the ease they felt did not long as they soon heard a loud screame from a familiar voice to the two of them.

    ¡°Nngggraaahhhh¡­!¡±

    A scream filled with immense pain and agony soon resounded throughout the area, hastily being picked up by the senses of hearing of the two. In an instant, the two of them deduced that this scream came from none other than Herellia, prompting the two to look at each other as a tacit agreement was formed between the two of them from their aura.

    Without hesitation, the two of them stood up and summoned forth all of the strength inside their bodies as they dashed to where Herellia was at the fastest speed they could muster. Along the way, they could not help but radiate auras of worry and concern as the two of them did not want anything bad to happen to Herellia.

    Fortunately, nothing bad did happen to Herellia since by that they had arrived, the cocoon of light covering Herellia had been dispelled. At the moment that the two of them had arrived at where Herellia was, both of them were left at a loss for words as they could not believe what they were looking at. Silently, they looked at each other for a bit before looking at the seemingly perfect figure slightly far away from them. Although the two of them could only see the figure¡¯s back, that alone was enough to tell the two that the being in front of him was someone who was incredibly powerful.

    They continued to look back and forth, only to simultaneously say to each other, ¡°Is that really, Herellia?¡±

    ¡°What? Who else could it be other than me?¡± In response, a voice that seemed to give anyone who listened to it a sense of motivation soon came out of that figure¡¯s mouth before turning her head around to look at the two behind her. A light smile filled with a hint of arrogance could be seen on her lips,plementing everything from her face to her current wardrobe.

    A red robe covering her upper and lower torso could be seen draping over her body, held in ce by a ck strap that went around her stomach. If one looked closely at the robe she wore, the exquisite design of golden flowers with a pinkish hue at the tips could be seen on the fringes of her robe, which was almost the same type of flower that was ced above her right ear, though it was more of a golden hibiscus than the flowers on the robe.

    In addition to her robe, she currently wore ck stockings and wooden sandals that came from who knows where, as well as a strap of red and ck fabric that went around her right thigh. At this moment, both Horell and Argentum could not help but notice that a puddle of red fluid had appeared under the figure¡¯s sandals, wondering if that puddle was due to the evolution she had gone through.

    But what stood out to them the most was the fact that the figure¡¯s eyes were now lively, unlike from her previous evolution which wasckluster, to say the least. Her irises glistened a beautiful gold,plementing the golden hibiscus above her ear, as well as the crimson red hair that covered her head, flowing naturally with the movement of the wind. Add on the fact that she had earrings on both of her ears, which also came from who knows where, a perfect figure to both Animate and Pseudo-Animate was standing in front of the two, radiating a faint red aura that entuated the look that Herellia had for her.

    Indeed, the figure standing in front of them was, in fact, Herellia in her Animate form (check paragraphments for illustration!).

    Just as Herellia was about to turn around and look at the two behind her with a proud expression, a soft rumble started to resound in the surroundings of the two, only for her to clutch her hands around her stomach as she kneeled to the ground. In that instant, both Argentum and Horell radiated auras of surprise, with Argentum¡¯s aura of surprise being more subdued as he already had an idea as to what was going on.

    And just as he was thinking about what he was going to do next, Herellia unhesitatingly looked at Argentum and parted her mouth to ask him, ¡°Argentum, do you know why this part of my body is hurting all of a sudden? It¡¯s as if it feels empty.¡±

    Growl¡­.

    ¡ª¡ª¨C

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 Chapter 313: Downsides of Being Human

    Chapter 313: Downsides of Being Human

    ¡°It seems it has begun,¡± Argentum could not help but mutter as he looked at Herellia¡¯s current plight. For someone like him who had ess to Aurus¡¯s memories, the condition in which an Animate would clutch their hands around their stomach as a soft growl could be heard was all too familiar to him. On the other hand, listening to his words, Horell could not help but ask him in a panic, saying, ¡°What do you mean it has begun? Shouldn¡¯t you help Herellia out?!¡±

    ¡°Calm yourself, Horell. There¡¯s no point panicking over something that could be solved easily,¡± Argentum looked at Horell as he responded, allowing the calm aura that he was exuding to extend towards Horell. Surprisingly, the aura he had exuded had helped Horell calm down, prompting him to take in a few deep breaths as he apologized not long after.

    ¡°So, what should we do?¡± Horell asked Argentum once again, this time, in a calm manner. At this moment, a light chuckle resounded from thetter as he replied, ¡°Well, if you mean ¡®me¡¯ by saying ¡®we,¡¯ then I¡¯m going to have to do two things.¡±

    ¡°First off, let me conjure something,¡± he added not long after as he soon fiddled with the spell creation feature of [Sage¡¯s Water Magic]. Inwardly chuckling at what he was doing due to its hrity, he could not help but think to himself, ¡®To think I¡¯m going to have to discard one of my True Water spells for one that allows me to conjure a water ball. It¡¯s like giving a stick to a soldier.¡¯

    Nevertheless, that feeling onlysted for a fleeting moment as he soon created the spell he needed to help Herellia out. Not long after, he started to mutter the incantations needed for the spell to be activated as a cyan magic circle manifested in front of him. Gradually, droplets of water started to appear from the magic circle, eventually transforming into arge ball of water that hovered around half a meter off the ground.

    Swoosh¡­

    Utilizing his control over the water ball, Argentum removed a small part of the water from the ball before moving it towards Herellia. While doing so, he replenished the lost water from the ball through the conjured magic circle, converting his energy into more droplets of water.

    ¡°Hey, Herellia,¡± Argentum said to Herellia to catch her attention. In response, Herellia looked at Argentum with a slightly pained expression as she instantly noticed the blob of water hovering in front of her face. She then asked her, ¡°Why is there water in front of me?¡±

    ¡°Drink it,¡± Argentum sinctly responded while Herellia tilted her head in confusion, wondering what Argentum meant by ¡®drinking.¡¯ As a newly evolved Animate, she was still unfamiliar with most of the functions and features that came with ascending to the Animate level, which Argentum fortunately noticed after seeing Herellia tilt her head in confusion.

    Coming closer to her, he slowly moved the blob of water towards her mouth as he instructed her, ¡°Open your mouth.¡±

    Knowing that Argentum didn¡¯t want to harm her in any way, Herellia did what she was told, opening her mouth as Argentum manipted the blob of water to enter her mouth. In an instant, a refreshing sensation covered the entirety of her mouth¡¯s insides. However, she still had her mouth open all this time.

    ¡°Now close your mouth,¡± Argentum said after that, not minding the fact that he was teaching Herellia how to drink water step-by-step. Although ISE did not go too in-depth into this dilemma ording to Aurus¡¯ memories, Argentum knew that tons of books were written about this problem in the various libraries Aurus had gone to in the past.

    Seeing Herellia obediently close her mouth, Argentum subconsciously nodded as he then said, ¡°Now, swallow the water.¡±

    At this moment, Herellia was about to ask how she would do that, but soon remembered that her mouth was filled with water, which was the ce where her voice originated. The pain she felt from her stomach had slightly subsided as she focused on trying to swallow the water. After a minute or continuous rummaging through her memories and sheer trial, a vocal gulping sound could be hearding from Herellia as the water in her mouth had gone through her esophagus,nding in her stomach.

    With that, the pain inside her stomach had been totally removed, which made Herellia look at Argentum as if he was some sort of savior. Noticing the way Herellia was looking at him, Argentum scratched his head as he told her, ¡°Just so you know, what you just did is a temporary fix for your problem. I¡¯ll still have to do one more thing to make sure that it would take quite some for the problem to arise.¡±

    ¡°Horell.¡± After telling Herellia what he had to say, he then shifted his focus towards Horell as he said, ¡°Take control of the water ball I conjured. If Herellia does that again, just remove a decent portion of water from the water ball and give it to her, okay?¡±

    ¡°Alright,¡± Horell replied as he nodded. He then conjured multiple mana tendrils, sending it towards the water ball to take control over it and make sure that it was still hovering off the air. Seeing that Horell¡¯s control over the water ball he had conjured was now more or less stable, Argentum went ahead and bid farewell to the two of them as he activated all of his movement speed boosting spells before heading in the direction directly opposite the path that led to the Verdant Blossom Breeze Alliance.

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    As he started to run, hemanded the system to bring up a map of Tempest Cliff and the area surrounding it, pondering over the location he would stop at. Eventually, he made up his mind, setting a marker on a location a couple of kilometers away from the Tempest Cliff¡¯s borders.

    ¡­

    With his understanding of the Wind element at the Animate level, it only took a few minutes for Argentum to arrive at the ce he had marked, taking in a deep breath as he made sure that he was in his peak condition. He then utilized his enhanced senses to search for a particr thing in the area.

    ¡°Hmm¡­what¡¯s a good first animal to kill and cook?¡± Argentum muttered as he hummed a small tune, moving here and there every once in a while to get a better view of the surroundings. At this point, it was quite obvious as to what Argentum was doing. Herellia was experiencing hunger, so Argentum was going to catch an animal and cook it to satiate her hunger.

    ¡°Ah, found a decent one.¡± After trekking the surroundings for a while, he eventually found an animal that seemed to suit the criteria he made in his mind. Without hesitation, he activated all of the skills that boosted his offense as he reced one of the True Water spells in his arsenal with a spell that allowed him to conjure a thin yet sharp needle made out of water.

    Swoosh¡­

    Conjuring the magic circle that allowed him to create a water needle, he then made sure to aim the needle on the head of the wolf he had seen from afar. After feeling that the time was right, he then shot the water needle at the wolf with full force as he muttered, ¡°Go! [Aqueous Pierce]!¡±

    Fwoosh!

    Due to the force contained inside the water needle after being boosted by multiple buffs, the needle seemed to have arrived at its destination in a sh, piercing through the wolf¡¯s skull without making a sound. Not only that, but it even pierced through to the other side with tons of energy to spare, which eventually caused multiple trees from afar to have a needle-sized hole on their trunks. However, Argentum did not care about that.

    Looking at the wolf from afar for a while, he waited to see if there was an adverse reaction from the wolf due to what he had done. Fortunately, there was none, with the wolf eventuallynding on the ground on its side with a dull thud.

    Seeing this, Argentum could not help but radiate a relieved aura as he made his way to where the wolf was before using his control over fire through magic to cauterize the small wound he had made. He had done this so that blood wouldn¡¯t trickle out of the wolf¡¯s body while he was carrying it. If he did not do that, then it basically told others to follow him through the trail of blood he made.

    Making sure that there were no other spots on the wolf¡¯s body that would allow blood to trickle out, he then lifted the wolf¡¯s body, cing its abdomen over his left shoulder as he cast buffs on himself once more. Unsurprisingly, the buffs this time all had something to do with increasing strength. After that, he started to dash back to where Herellia and Horell was.

    ¡­

    While making his way back to where the two of them were, he started to think about Herellia¡¯s next steps. Although he had a hunch that Herellia would head back to the alliance once this problem was temporarily solved, he knew that this would hamper her in the long run, stunting her speed of improvement.

    Recalling all of the memories Aurus had from ISE in the past, he knew that Animates who stayed in areas made for Inanimates would have a slower speed of improvement than those who stayed in areas made for Pseudo-Animates or even Animates. Of course, that was all because Inanimates would offer lower experience than the other two types of existences.

    With that in mind, he pondered on what he could do to help Herellia speed up her growth while making sure that the alliance was well-maintained. Unsurprisingly, the gears in his mind had started to turn, eventually formting a n that would not only benefit Herellia, but him as well.

    Wanting to prepare for the n, Argentum then channeled some of the energy inside his body towards a specific area inside it, allowing him to connect with one of the two people he had made a contract with. A few secondster, a connection was made, with the familiar voice of a woman being heard soon after as she asked, ¡°Argentum! It¡¯s been a while since youst contacted me. What¡¯s up?¡±

    ¡°It has indeed been a long while, Eleanor,¡± Argentum said with a light chuckle as he continued to traverse through the forested part of the Tempest Cliff. He then got to the main reason why he called Eleanor as he told her, ¡°I have a favor to ask you.¡±

    ¡°As long as it doesn¡¯t involve money, then I¡¯ll try to help,¡± Eleanor responded, prompting Argentum to exin the circumstances that surrounded him and Herellia. After a few minutes, Argentum was finished exining his side, allowing Eleanor to ask her own questions.

    ¡°So, if I¡¯m getting it correctly, one of your Inanimate friends had just evolved to the Animate level, and you want me to help her out in getting used to the life of an Animate?¡± she asked, to which Argentum subconsciously nodded as he replied, ¡°That¡¯s pretty much the gist of it, yeah.¡±

    ¡°Hmm¡­what do I get in exchange?¡± Eleanor questioned Argentum, making thetter stop in his tracks for a bit as he realized that he was now asking for too much from her. In less than an instant, he had made up his mind that he would share his secrets regarding how one could achieve an Animate level of understanding in the Fire element. Unexpectedly, just as he was about to say that, a light chuckle could be heard from the other side as Eleanor said, ¡°I¡¯m just kidding. It¡¯s fine, it¡¯s fine. Just send her here, and I¡¯ll handle the rest. I have been feeling that the inheritance has been lonelytely, though that has been mitigated with Blob around.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯d still rather talk with girls, though, so sending her here is just right up my alley,¡± she added, only to ask him soon after, ¡°Speaking of which, do you want me to help train her?¡±

    ¡°Well¡­is it a nuisance to you?¡± Argentum asked, to which Eleanor replied, ¡°Not at all. In fact, I¡¯d be d to teach her a thing or two regarding Animates!¡±

    ¡°I see,¡± Argentum said as he let out a sigh of relief. After that, he told her, ¡°I¡¯ll let you know when we¡¯re there.¡±

    ¡°Got it,¡± Eleanor replied as the connection between the two of them was now cut off. Feeling that he had given Herellia a better future, he continued to speed off to where they were, eventually arriving after around ten minutes or so.

 Chapter 314: The Next Step

    Chapter 314: The Next Step

    XXXX Continent, Telmerann Province, inside the Arcenon family household.

    ¡°Always make sure that your allies don¡¯t die under his schemes, okay?¡± An expression of genuine concern could be seen on Iridescia¡¯s face as he did not want his son to suffer the same fate as the princes did. While listening to his mother¡¯s words, Vanadir could not help but feel his heart being warmed up as he assured her, saying, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, mom. Unlike the others, I know what I¡¯m doing.¡±

    ¡°Also, I¡¯d suggest you don¡¯t call Arshe my brother, mom,¡± he continued as a slightly infuriated expression could be seen on his face. ¡°At most, I would consider him as my half-brother, and that would be pushing it. After everything he has done so far before the war of the throne even officially starts, how could I consider him as someone rted to me?¡±

    Listening to the words her son uttered, Iridescia could not help but let out a light sigh as she replied, ¡°I know how tyrannical your third eldest brother has been acting these past few weeks, but the blood of your father is still flowing inside him. Even if you don¡¯t consider him as your brother, always make sure to be incredibly vignt whenever you¡¯re around him.¡±

    ¡°Why would I not be vignt?¡± The Ninth Prince let out a grimugh, only to notice the slightly sad expression on his mother¡¯s face, prompting him to let out a long sigh. Scratching his head, he then told her, ¡°Seriously, mom. You don¡¯t have to worry about me. With the strength father¡¯s blood imbued in me and the brains you gave me, how would I not be prepared for those kinds of nefarious acts?¡±

    ¡°Plus, the teamposition I have in mind would allow them to leave any incident involving him unscathed,¡± he continued to speak before pretending to be sad as he said, ¡°But I guess my mother doesn¡¯t believe in me that much. I guess I¡¯ll just¡­¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t you pull off that stuff in front of me, you twerp!¡± Iridescia could not help butugh at Vanadir¡¯s expression as she lovingly rubbed her son¡¯s head. Embracing her son once more, she then told her, ¡°Of course, I believe in you, my son. Where would my pride as a mother go if I didn¡¯t believe in you?¡±

    Although Vanadir wanted his mom to stop hugging her, he had to admit inwardly that the feeling of being loved was not bad. Eventually, the two of them stopped hugging after a few minutes, allowing him to tell his mom, ¡°I¡¯ll make sure to visit you every once in a while, mom. For now, I still have other stuff to do, so I¡¯ll have to leave for now.¡±

    In response, Iridescia nodded as she replied, ¡°Alright, son. May the heavens help you out in your preparations before the war for the throne.¡±

    Vanadir nodded at his mother¡¯s words with a light smile before making his way to the door to leave the room, leaving her alone. After hearing the mor that urred outside after Vanadir¡¯s absence gradually disappear that, Iridescia sat back down on her chair before turning it around to look at the scenery she could see from her room.

    Chuckling as she reminisced some old memories, she then muttered to herself, ¡°Zeldrion, it seems that we¡¯ve truly given birth to a great child. I¡¯m sure you have high hopes for him as well, but due to your status as king, you can¡¯t show favoritism.¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t you worry about a thing, dear.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m sure he¡¯ll take up your mantle.¡±

    ¡­

    While Vanadir¡¯s mother was left to her own devices, Vanadir, on the other hand, headed to where Dane and Valentia were waiting for him, noticing that the two of them were getting along quite well. With a light smile stered on his face, he looked at the two and said, ¡°I see the two of you have been getting along.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m just as surprised as you, Vanadir,¡± Valentia said in response to his words as she looked at Dane with an expression of slight surprise. ¡°Who knew that us two would have a lot inmon?¡±

    ¡°The same could be said for me as well, Miss Valentia,¡± Dane let out a light chuckle as he responded to her question. ¡°I was surprised to know that most of her interests ovep with mine. I feel like our team is going to be a splendid one with her around, Your Highness.¡±

    ¡°Is that so?¡± Vanadirughed in response to Dane¡¯s words as he said, ¡°That¡¯s good.¡±

    ¡°In any case, let¡¯s head back to the capital,¡± he continued as he looked at the two of them. With the two of them nodding in response to his words, he then focused his vision onto Dane as he said, ¡°You know what to do, Dane.¡±

    ¡°I got it, Your Highness,¡± Dane chuckled as he replied before conjuring a magic circle that easily enveloped the three of them. Not long after, the three of them had disappeared from the corridors found inside the Arcenon family household, slowly making their way back to the capital.

    Whoosh!

    ¡­

    XXXX Continent, Seraph Kingdom.

    ¡°Haah¡­haah¡­¡± At the very instant the three of them had arrived outside the gates of the royal pce, Dane could not help but gasp for air as he mustered all of the energy inside his body to conjure a rift, allowing a few mana stones to drop onto his hands as he absorbed the mana from them. On the other hand, Valentia looked at Dane with a slightly concerned expression before asking Vanadir, ¡°Will he be alright?¡±

    ¡°He¡¯s used to it, though I¡¯d rather have him take rests every time we teleport,¡± Vanadir said in response to Valentia¡¯s question. He then looked at Dane and asked, ¡°How long will it take you to get back to your peak condition, Dane?¡±

    ¡°Around¡­five minutes¡­Your Highness,¡± Dane said amidst the panting, focusing all of his attention on siphoning the mana contained inside the mana stones he held. Feeling that there was a reason why the Ninth Prince asked him that question, he went ahead and asked him, ¡°Is there a reason¡­as to why you asked that, Your Highness?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll answer your questionter, Dane.¡± Surprisingly, Vanadir did not answer Dane¡¯s question as he made his way to the pce gates, exuding the aura that was bestowed unto him before he left the pce as he told the guards, ¡°I¡¯ll be taking Valentia Corinne Arcenon, a noble under the Arcenon family, under my care.¡±

    Although the guards couldn¡¯t care less as to what Vanadir did since they were more supportive of the Third Prince, they still opened the gates for him as they knew they still had to do their job. With the gates leading to the insides of the pce now open, Vanadir gestured Valentia and Dane toe closer to him as they made their way into the pce, heading to the pavilion where the Ninth Prince usually stayed.

    ¡­

    ¡°Why didn¡¯t you tell me you have a gorgeous looking house under your name, Vanadir?¡± Valentia could not help but click her tongue and ask as the three of them stood in front of Vanadir¡¯s pavilion. With a light smile, Vanadir replied, ¡°You never bothered to ask.¡±

    After that, the three of them headed into the pavilion, with Valentia and Dane sitting down on the chairs in the guest room. At this moment, Dane was still focused on absorbing energy from the mana stones he was holding, leaving Valentia in a slightly bored state. Fortunately, Vanadir was there, which allowed her to ask him, ¡°So, where¡¯s the other cute girl in your team?¡±

    ¡°In the Arcana Tower, practicing her magic,¡± Vanadir hastily replied as he rummaged through a few shelves to obtain a few cups. Not long after, he looked back at Valentia and asked, ¡°What would you like to drink?¡±

    ¡°Do you have some strawberry juice?¡± Valentia asked in response to Vanadir¡¯s question, to which thetter nodded as he replied, ¡°Should I add some sugar into it?¡±

    ¡°Nah. Natural¡¯s fine with me,¡± Valentia hastily replied, prompting the Ninth Prince to subconsciously nod as he poured her a ss of strawberry juice. On the other hand, he poured himself a ss of water, cing in a few ice cubes to keep it cool.

    Making his way to where the two of them were, Vanadir then gave the ss of strawberry juice to Valentia as he took a few sips from his ss of cold water. As they allowed their bodies to rx, Vanadir looked at the somewhat rxed Valentia and said, ¡°Since you¡¯ll be staying with me for now, there are a few guest rooms up on the second floor. Feel free to choose.¡±

    ¡°Got it.¡± Valentia nodded as she took another sip from her ss. At this moment, Dane was now finished absorbing energy from mana stones, which meant that he was now back to his peak condition. Noticing that the Ninth Prince offered his ss of water to him, Dane thanked him before taking a few gulps of the cool water.

    Letting out a sigh of relief after taking those gulps, he looked at Vanadir and asked, ¡°So, Your Highness. Is there a reason as to why you asked that question a while ago?¡±

    Of course, the question that lingered in Dane¡¯s mind was none other than the question regarding his recovery rate for energy. With a nod, Vanadir replied, ¡°Although I¡¯m not sure as to whether Valentia would want to head to the Arcana Tower right now, would it be fine if you teleport her there?¡±

    Hearing Vanadir¡¯s words, Valentia could not help but be ecstatic as she asked, ¡°Really? I can go and see her right now?¡±

    ¡°Of course.¡± Vanadir lightly smiled as he tossed a badge-like object to her. Receiving it with both hands, Valentia took a look at the object and noticed that the words ¡®Seraph Royal Pce¡¯ was engraved on it. Knowing what it meant, Valentia thanked Vanadir, saying, ¡°Thanks for giving me a royal emblem.¡±

    Soon after Vanadir gave Valentia a royal emblem, Dane stood up from his seat and made his way to where Valentia was. He then ced his right palm on her forehead, making Valentia flustered for a bit, only to feel that an engraving was made on her head, which soon disappeared.

    Taking his hands off her forehead, he looked at her with a light smile and said, ¡°With the mark I engraved you, you now have ess up to the 40th floor of the Arcana Tower, which is equivalent to my authority inside the tower. That¡¯s more than enough for you to meet my student.¡±

    At this moment, Valentia could not help but feel her heart warming up as she said thanks to Dane. Soon after, a light blush appeared on her cheeks as the expression on her face was that of hesitation. Eventually, the hesitation on her face disappeared as she looked at Dane and asked him, ¡°Is it fine if you take me to your student right now?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯d be d to,¡± Dane nodded as he replied before looking at the Ninth Prince, who was looking at the two with a smile on his face. He then told him, ¡°I¡¯ll only take a short while, Your Highness,¡± to which Vanadir responded, ¡°Take your time.¡±

    Whoosh!

    With a magic circle enveloping both Valentia and Dane, the two of them soon disappeared from Vanadir¡¯s sight. While the two of them were gone, Vanadir took sips from his ss of water from time to time as he thought about the things he still had to do in preparation for the war for the throne.

    By the time Dane was back from shuttling Valentia to the Arcana Tower, the ss of water Vanadir was drinking from was now empty. Holding an empty ss, Vanadir looked at the newly arrived Dane and asked, ¡°How did it go?¡±

    ¡°Erea was ecstatic to hear that Valentia joined your team, Your Highness,¡± Dane hastily replied to his words before asking, ¡°So, what¡¯s next on the agenda, Your Highness?¡±

    ¡°Since we were sessful in pulling my cousin from the Arcenon family into my team, I feel like we have some good luck on us,¡± Vanadir responded in a roundabout manner, prompting Dane to ask, ¡°What do you mean by that, Your Highness?¡±

    ¡°What I¡¯m saying is that¡­¡± Vanadir grinned as he ced the empty ss he was holding on the table in front of him. He then stood up and ced his hand on Dane¡¯s shoulder before saying.

    ¡°Let¡¯s try our luck and pull in that guy from the Astelia family.¡±

    ¡°¡­do you mean like¡­right now, Your Highness?¡±

    ¡°Yup.¡±

 Chapter 315: Roping In From the Shadows

    Chapter 315: Roping In From the Shadows

    Scratching his head from the seemingly absurd request Vanadir gave to him, Dane looked through one of therge windows covering the pavilion, taking note of the current position of the sun. He then went silent for a bit, pondering over something before finally looking back at Vanadir and saying with a light sigh, ¡°It¡¯s already a bitte in the afternoon, Your Highness. It¡¯d be possible for us to arrive in front of the Astelia family household and get back to the capital before the sun sets if its proximity to the capital is somewhat close.¡±

    ¡°But if it¡¯s as far away as the Arcenon family household, then it would be impossible for us to get back to the capital before sunset, Your Highness,¡± he added. Surprisingly, the Ninth Prince listened to all of that without a frown on his face, as if he was expecting Dane to be against it in the first ce. With a light smile stered on his face, he said to Dane, ¡°Now, what if I tell you that heading to the Astelia family household closer at night would be beneficial to our cause?¡±

    ¡°Is it?¡± Dane lightly shook his head, disbelieving of the prince¡¯s words. Nevertheless, he had toply with Vanadir¡¯s wishes as he was, after all, his royal advisor. Asking the Ninth Prince to bring out the map he unfurled before they headed to the Arcenon family household, Dane went ahead and asked him, ¡°So, where is the Astelia family household situated in this map, Your Highness?¡±

    ¡°Right here, the Duvir province,¡± Vanadir hastily pointed at the rough location of the Astelia family household on the map, pointing towards one of the provinces that was closer to the capital. Inwardly letting out a sigh of relief, Dane lightly nodded as he said, ¡°I see. I think we can get back to the capital before sunset if it¡¯s that close, Your Highness. Speaking of which, do you need to ask for permission from the king again since you¡¯re leaving once more?¡±

    ¡°I asked permission from the king if I could have the freedom to leave the pce the whole day, so it¡¯ll be fine,¡± the Ninth Prince assured his royal advisor with a light smile on his face, only to recall a certain thing regarding the Astelia family not long after that. At that instant, he ced both of his hands on Dane¡¯s shoulders, making thetter wonder as to what was going on. With no choice but to look at Vanadir¡¯s face, he then asked, ¡°What¡¯s wrong, Your Highness?¡±

    ¡°Let me ask you something, Dane,¡± Vanadir responded in a slightly solemn tone. ¡°Would you be willing to follow my every order, as long as it doesn¡¯t harm you in any way?¡±

    ¡°Why are you asking that same question agai¡ª¡± Dane could not help but ask, only to stop at the veryst moment as he wondered if the prince was intentionally choosing people with entric personalities. Although he had not met the person the Ninth Prince wanted to poach from the Astelia family before, after seeing Valentia and helping out satisfy her desires, he could not help but feel that the one from the Astelia family would turn out to be the same as her.

    Making sure that his hunch was not wrong, he then asked, ¡°Are you telling me that there¡¯s a possibility where there would be a surprise for me?¡±

    ¡°In a way, yes,¡± Vanadir lightly nodded as he replied. ¡°So, are you willing?¡±

    ¡°Well, my answer will have to wait for now, Your Highness. In any case, let us be on our way to the Astelia family household,¡± Dane did not ept nor deny Vanadir¡¯s proposition, prompting the Ninth Prince to focus on what was most important, which was to get there.

    With a light nod, Vanadir then walked closer to Dane, allowing thetter to conjure a magic circle that would envelop the two of them as they soon disappeared from the area not even a few secondster.

    ¡­

    XXXX Continent, Duvir Province, near the Astelia family household.

    Whoosh!

    Just like before with Valentia, the two of them appeared in a small forest not far away from the household where the Astelia family resided. Although Dane could teleport the two of them directly in front of the household, it would be unsightly in Dane¡¯s opinion for the royal advisor to be out of breath while apanying the Ninth Prince. As for Vanadir, he couldn¡¯t care less as to whether Dane was tired or not, but he did appreciate what Dane was doing, knowing his intentions to help him look better in front of other people.

    Taking a peek through the leaves that gave them shade against the scorching rays of the sun, Vanadir took a look at the current position of the sun, estimating that they had around half an hour to an hour of sunlight at most. As to why that was the case, Vanadir told Dane to take rests in between teleports, which Dane fortunately listened to this time around. Thanks to that small change, Dane only had to absorb energy from a few mana stones before returning to his peak condition.

    After making sure that Dane had returned to his peak condition, Vanadir then asked Dane to cast a movement speed boosting spell on the two of them before heading to where the Astelia family household was at full speed. Around ten minutester, the two of them had arrived at the entrance of the household, leaving those from the Astelia family household at a loss for words as they did not know these two people to arrive when it was close to nighttime.

    Nevertheless, the word that the two of them were at the entrance of the Astelia family household still spread throughout the manor like a wildfire, causing some of the highly esteemed servants of the family to serve the two of them as one of them bowed in front of the two before asking, ¡°May I ask what the two esteemed sirs are here for?¡±

    As if their response to the question was nned from the start, Vanadir took a step forward before introducing themselves to the servants, saying, ¡°I¡¯m Vanadir Seraph, the Ninth Prince of the Seraph Kingdom. Behind me is my royal advisor, Dane Grossezauber. We are here in the Astelia family household to ask if the ¡®Great Fortress,¡¯ Griselle Astelia is inside the household as we want to talk with her.¡±

    ¡°Ah.¡± Listening to their intentions, the servant that asked them lightly nodded as he politely replied, ¡°I understand. I will try to get Lady Griselle toe to you as soon as possible.¡±

    Fortunately for them, just as the servant was about to turn around and head into the household to call for the Griselle Astelia that Vanadir spoke of, the slim figure of a young woman came into view of the servants, as well as Vanadir and Dane at the very instant the servant was finished speaking.

    Wearing a long-sleeved t-shirt made out of cotton that was light red, which wasplemented by ck pants that entuated her beautiful legs, as well as ck shoes that made sure to cover her feet, this woman with her silver hair tied into a ponytail looked at Vanadir and Dane with a solemn gaze before saying, ¡°I already know of your intentions, Ninth Prince. In that case, I¡¯m not willing to ept.¡±

    After saying those words, she then turned around and headed back into the insides of the Astelia family household, leaving the servants and the other people there at a loss for words as they knew that if she said those words to those people, then what she wanted to happen was for them to be escorted away. Usually, it would be easy for them to do so, but now that the two people she wanted to shoo away were the Ninth Prince and his royal advisor, then things became quite difficult for them.

    Taking the initiative amidst the silent atmosphere in the surroundings, one of the servants stepped forward and looked at the two as she politely said, ¡°Esteemed sirs, I would like to sincerely apologize on behalf of the Astelia family, but since our Lady Griselle told the two of you to leave the premises, then we¡­¡±

    ¡°Ah, we understand. We¡¯ll leave shortly,¡± Vanadir responded to the servant¡¯s words with a light smile, knowing that she was just doing her job. While a dumbfounded expression was still stered on Dane¡¯s face, Vanadir went ahead and grabbed him by the arm as they walked further and further away from the Astelia household, stopping at the small forest where they rested quite some time ago.

    ¡°So, what do you think of her?¡± At the very instant the two of them had arrived at the small forest, Vanadir released his grip on Dane¡¯s arm and asked him with a light smile. In response, Dane looked at Vanadir with a weird expression, wondering why he was still smiling. Nheless, Dane responded with an honest answer as he said, ¡°From the aura she was emitting a while ago, I could tell that she excels in the field of protection.¡±

    ¡°Though I kind of dislike the fact that she rejected you in front of so many people,¡± he added, prompting Vanadir tough out loud as he told him, ¡°I told you I was just trying my luck.¡±

    ¡°In any case, you should¡¯ve told me that the guy from the Astelia family you were talking about was actually a she, Your Highness,¡± Dane said with a light frown, to which the Ninth Prince let out a light chuckle as he replied, ¡°Can¡¯t reveal everything from the get-go, you know?¡±

    ¡°Anyways, what if I told you that there was a way for her to agree to my offer of joining my team?¡± he said not long after, eliciting a slightly curious expression to arise on Dane¡¯s face. Noticing this, Vanadir grinned as he moved closer to Dane as he said, ¡°Alright. Here¡¯s the n I have in mind. Although I¡¯m not entirely sure that it would work, I¡¯m at least sure that we would get out of this unscathed.¡±

    He then started to whisper the n he had in mind into Dane¡¯s ear after that. At first, Dane¡¯s eyes widened at the sheer absurdity of the n. But as time passed, that surprised expression was reced with that of doubt as he felt that there was no way such a n would work. Even after Vanadir was finished exining the n, an expression of doubt could be seen on Dane¡¯s face, wondering if the prince he was following now had a few screws loose.

    ¡°Oi, oi, oi. What¡¯s with the doubtful expression? You did tell me to inform you of things like these beforehand, right?¡± the Ninth Prince said not long after, dispelling the doubtful expression on Dane¡¯s face as he let out a sigh. Scratching his head as he tried to wrap his head around the n, Dane looked at him and asked, ¡°Is that why you asked me before we left if I would be willing to follow every order you make, as long as it doesn¡¯t harm me, Your Highness?¡±

    ¡°Uh-huh,¡± Vanadir nodded as he replied. Seeing the adamant expression on his face, Dane went silent for a bit as he pondered over their chances of sessfully roping someone like Griselle Astelia through that method. In the end, Dane let out a long sigh of annoyance as he said, ¡°Ahhh¡­to hell with it!¡±

    ¡°Now that¡¯s the Dane I know,¡± Vanadirughed as the two of them went ahead and bided their time inside the forest, waiting for night to fall.

    ¡­

    A few hours have passed since the two of them had arrived near the Astelia family household. Taking a gander at the moon that illuminated the night sky, Vanadir lightly nodded to himself as he felt that now was the right time to make a move. Tapping on Dane¡¯s shoulder, who was circting the mana inside his body all this time, he then looked at him and said, ¡°We¡¯re going to make our move.¡±

    With a nod, Dane stood up and dusted off his backside before going ahead and casting movement speed boosting spells to the two of them, as well as spells that removed their presence from onlookers. Ensuring that all of the spells had been sessfully cast on them, the two then dashed towards the Astelia family household once more, this time with an entric n in mind.

    There was no surprise to the amount of time it took them to arrive at the household since they were using the same movement speed boosting spells. What was instead surprising was that they were still able to unleash such a level of speed even after not eating for so long. Then again, as long as one had reached a high enough ss, one could forgo eating or drinking for longer durations, with those at the peak even being able to forgo eating and drinking altogether.

    Just before they arrive at the entrance of the Astelia family household, the two of them hastily made a sharp turn as Vanadir asked Dane to utilize a detection spell, telling him to keep his senses peeled at the very instant he sensed Griselle¡¯s presence. After circling the perimeter of the household a few times, Dane¡¯s spell finally picked up the signs of Griselle¡¯s presence, prompting them to stop under a window that led to a room that was more or less lit.

    The two of them looked at each other as they prepared themselves for what was about toe. With a nod, they then leaped into the window, entering the room uninvited as their sights were greeted by a silver-haired woman wearingfortable nightwear.

    ¡°Eh? Aren¡¯t you two the two people I rejected earlie¡ª!¡± Unfortunately for the silver-haired woman, just before she could finish her question, Dane hastily moved closer to her and gripped her by the neck before pushing her onto one of the walls. As for Vanadir, who watched all of this unfold from behind, he looked at the silver-haired woman and asked, ¡°So, Lady Griselle. Let me ask you one more time. Are you willing to join my team?¡±

    ¡°Your Highness, there¡¯s no way this has got to work, right?¡± Before Griselle could even answer, Dane looked back at the Ninth Prince and asked, prompting thetter to let out a light chortle as he pointed at Griselle and said, ¡°Take a look at her current expression and tell me if that¡¯s the case.¡±

    ¡°What do you mean by¡ª¡± Just before Dane could even finish his query, the current expression Griselle had on her face was a stark contrast to the Griselle that they had seen just a while ago. At this moment, her face was as red as a tomato, though it was not due to the grip Dane had over her neck. In fact, Dane did not even grip on her neck that hard at all. Nevertheless, ragged breathing filled with a hint of lust could be hearding out of Griselle¡¯s mouth as she looked at Dane with a gaze filled with desire.

    Amidst her breathing, she maintained her calm as she looked at Vanadir and asked, ¡°If I ept¡­can I¡­have my way¡­with this¡­fine man¡­?¡±

    ¡°Oh no,¡± Dane instantly felt that something was amiss after listening to Griselle¡¯s words. Sadly for him, just before he could ask Vanadir to help him out, a grin could be seen on the Ninth Prince¡¯s face as he jumped through the window they entered from while replying, ¡°Take as much as time you want.¡±

    Whoosh!

    Since Dane and Griselle were the two ones left inside the room, and Vanadir seemed to have no intention of helping him out, Dane let out a light sigh in the end as he released his grip on her neck as he muttered to himself, ¡°I don¡¯t know if I should hate you or love you, Your Highness.¡±

    ¡°In any case, it¡¯s time to prepare for the battle in front of me.¡±

    ¡°3rd Circle!¡±

    ¡°[Extreme Hardening]!¡±

    ¡°My vitality is seriously going to get siphoned at this rate¡­¡±

 Chapter 316: Passing the Baton

    Chapter 316: Passing the Baton

    Rustle¡­rustle¡­

    Hearing the sounds of leaves being shaken vigorously, Herellia and Horell, who had been waiting for Argentum toe back all this time, could not help but be vignt. At this moment, Herellia was already standing after drinking a bit more water from the ball of water Argentum had conjured for her. Because of that, the size of the ball of water was now around 30% smaller than it originally was. Nevertheless, the pain she felt from her stomach was now more tolerable than ever before, possibly due to her getting used to it.

    Taking on a battle stance, the two of them focused their vision in the direction where they heard the rustling originate from, only to radiate auras of joy as they soon found that the one making the rustling noise was just Argentum moving through the various shrubs and trees.

    Noticing that Argentum was carrying a wolf, Horell and Herellia could not help but look at Argentum with shock, recalling the bout they had with Chonk quite some time ago. As for Argentum, he ced the wolf carcass he had just obtained on the ground with a thud, taking in a breath of fresh air soon after as the carcass was still heavy even after all of the strength buffs he had cast on himself.

    ¡°Hm?¡± It was only at this moment that he noticed the shocked expressions on the faces of the two, making him wonder why they were looking at him that way. Fortunately, it did not take long for him to put two and two together as he looked at the wolf carcass he had brought, and then back at Herellia and Horell as he recalled some of Aurus¡¯s memories from the past.

    With an aura that seemed to exude that he now understood what was going on, he let out a light chuckle as he said, ¡°Just so you know, this is just a normal wolf. Even you and Horell would be able to kill something like this alone.¡±

    Hearing those words, the shocked expressions on the two subsided. However, a curious expression soon reced it as they now wondered why Argentum had brought the corpse of a wolf to them. It was then they recalled the second thing that Argentum had to do to help Herellia with her current plight. At this moment, Herellia and Horell looked at Argentum, then at each other as they simultaneously thought, ¡®Killing a wolf will help Herellia¡¯s problem?¡¯

    ¡°Horell, could you pluck a decent amount of branches from the fallen trees?¡± Ignorant of what they were thinking, Argentum looked at Horell and asked as he soon hung the wolf off of a sturdy tree using a ton of vines he had scavenged while making his way to this ce. With a nod, Horell then went off and cast buffs on himself in order to make the process of grabbing branches faster.

    With that, Argentum and Herellia were soon left alone, a silent atmosphere shrouding the two of them. After a while, one of the two finally felt that the silence was too unbearable, prompting them to take the initiative as that being asked the other one, ¡°So, what problem do I have?¡±

    Surprisingly, the first one to feel the silence getting to them was Herellia, deciding to start a conversation with Argentum with the topic of her current plight in mind. While Argentum was wondering as to how he was going to remove the fur from the carcass of the wolf, he heard the question that was directed at him, prompting him to answer, ¡°You¡¯re experiencing something called hunger.¡±

    ¡°Hunger? What¡¯s that?¡± Herellia could not help but ask as her interest was piqued. Fortunately, Argentum was there to entertain her as they waited for Horell toe back, only to recall that since Horell had left, the water ball had no one controlling it anymore. With a slightly panicking aura surrounding him, he looked at the ce where he had conjured the water ball, only to notice that a hand made out of condensed mana was keeping the water ball secure.

    Seeing this, Argentum could not help but think that Horell had thought of it in advance, inwardly giving him a thumbs up from afar. Soon after, he answered Herellia¡¯s query as he replied, ¡°You can consider one of the features an Animate would have. In easier to understand terms, it¡¯s a time when your body needs energy for it to operate at full power.¡±

    ¡°Is hunger a bad thing?¡± Herellia asked, slightly regretting the fact that she had evolved into the Animate level. In response, Argentum subconsciously shook his head as he responded, ¡°At times, it¡¯s a bad thing, but for the most part, it¡¯s pretty great. Think about it this way. If your hunger is removed, you can expect yourself to be exerting 120%, 200%, or even 300% of your maximum power.¡±

    ¡°Of course, that¡¯s only if you push yourself to the limit,¡± he added, but he kept this part to himself. Nevertheless, that was enough to make Herellia think that hunger was a good thing. Coincidentally, Argentum had found a decent way to remove the fur from the wolf carcass, utilizing the Wind element to conjure a sharp de. After making sure that the de was stable and sharp, he then grabbed ahold of it before using it to hack off the fur from the wolf carcass, making sure to remove the least meat while doing so.

    The gray fur covering the wolf was gradually removed, revealing a body made out of reddish meat in front of Herellia. Unbeknownst to Herellia, her stomach started to grumble as she continued to look at the fur on the wolf carcass being removed, making her wonder as to why her body was acting like that even though she thought nothing of it. On the other hand, Argentum could not help but chuckle after hearing Herellia¡¯s stomach grumble, prompting him to turn around to look at Herellia and say, ¡°Wait for Horell toe back with branches. Once he¡¯s back, your problem will definitely be gone.¡±

    After that, he continued to use the wind de he had conjured on the red meat of the wolf, cutting it into sizable portions before finding a long stick to skewer them on. Of course, he made sure that the stick he had picked up was not an Inanimate, or at the very least, an Inanimate that did not have a strong soul yet. He then hung the skewer filled with wolf meat on the tree he hung the wolf from as the two of them continued to wait for Horell toe back.

    Fortunately, it did not take long, with Horelling back around a couple of minutester after Argentum was finished skewering the meat. Tossing the pile of branches on the ground slightly far away from the water ball, he then looked at Argentum and asked, ¡°What should I do next?¡±

    ¡°That¡¯ll be all for now, thanks,¡± Argentum said in response to Horell¡¯s question as he thanked him. He then walked to where the branches were before utilizing [Higher Ignis Magic] to start a fire with the branches. He then waited for the fire to get hot as he found two branches that were long enough before shoving them into the ground on opposite sides of the fire, nning to use them as a ce where he could ce the skewer over the fire.

    All the while Argentum was doing those things, Herellia and Horell looked at Argentum with an expression of curiosity and interest. Feeling that Argentum was doing something ritual-like in nature, Horell looked at Herellia and asked, ¡°Do you know what kind of ritual Argentum is doing?¡±

    But just before Herellia could respond to his question, Argentum interrupted her from replying, deciding to reply instead as he said, ¡°This isn¡¯t a ritual, Horell. In fact, it¡¯s something Animates usually do to remove the hunger they¡¯re feeling. It¡¯s called cooking.¡±

    ¡°Cooking¡­¡± Herellia and Horell muttered as theymitted the word to memory. From the looks of it, cooking was something that needed tons of effort to do, but by how Argentum was moving about through all of this with an air of nonchnce, they decided to wait untilter to make their opinions.

    At this moment, Argentum felt that the fire was hot enough, prompting him to grab the skewer he had hung from the tree and ce it over the open fire through the branches he had affixed to the ground. He then allowed the part of the meat on the skewer over the fire to start browning as a fragrant aroma gradually suffused throughout the area after a few minutes or so.

    Since Herellia was an Animate, after smelling this fragrant aroma, the grumbling of her stomach had intensified, as if her body was screaming out to her that she had to obtain that skewer of meat right now. But since Argentum was still handling it, she knew that it was better for her to wait as she endured the slightly intensified pangs of hunger. As for Horell, although the fragrant aroma was foreign to him, due to him being a Pseudo-Animate, he could not help but take pleasure in it as he asked Argentum, ¡°Is cooking a process where you create nice smelling aromas? Because if it is, I might try and do it myself?¡±

    ¡°The fragrant aroma that arises from cooking is only a small part of it,¡± Argentum giggled as he turned the skewer over to allow the uncooked side of the skewered meat to be cooked over the fire. He then looked at Herellia and said, ¡°Let me apologize in advance for not having any spices on me. I tried to forage some along the way, but none of them would fit wolf meat.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s fine, although I don¡¯t know what spices are,¡± Herellia said with a tone of understanding. Eventually, the skewered meat on the stick was brown all over, with some parts even slightly charred. Nevertheless, Argentum knew that those parts would be the parts that would taste the best, removing the skewer from the open me as he used a bit of his energy to separate a bit of water from the water ball he had conjured. He then used the water he had separated to put out the fire, knowing that it would be a hazard for Herellia if she openly got into contact with it.

    He then gave the skewer to Herellia and said, ¡°Here you go. What you have to do is more or less simr to drinking. The only difference is that you have to use your mouth to grip the meat on the skewer before cing it into your mouth and using your teeth to grind it down. Once you feel that you have ground it for long enough, you then swallow it.¡±

    ¡°Do I have to exin it one more time?¡± Argentum asked just in case, but Herellia shook her head in response as she replied, ¡°Nope. I understand what I have to do.¡±

    After that, she did what she was told to do, using the teeth to grip on a piece of the skewered meat before dragging it away to ce it in her mouth. At the very instant the piece of meat she gripped on had entered her mouth, her senses of taste had allowed her body to enter a state of ephemeral euphoria, making her think that the piece of meat inside her mouth was the most delicious thing she had ever eaten, though she did not know what delicious meant.

    In any case, she felt that her body was yearning for the piece of meat, so she continued to recall what Argentum had told her, grinding the piece of meat down with her teeth through chewing. Surprisingly, the depth of vor from the piece of meat she was eating had intensified to a great degree as juices oozed out of the piece of meat. At this point, not only was her body yearning for the piece of meat, even her mind was screaming that she had to swallow it.

    Eventually, she felt that she had ground the piece of meat for long enough and swallowed it, instantly removing the pain she felt radiating from her stomach. Noticing this, she looked at Argentum with shock and asked, ¡°Is this the true method for removing hunger?¡±

    ¡°Indeed, it is.¡± Argentum nodded as he continued, ¡°What you¡¯re doing is called eating. With drinking, you would be able to unleash a great amount of power once you feel that your body has reached its limit.¡±

    ¡°I see,¡± Herellia said as she subconsciously nodded before grabbing a piece of meat from the skewer yet again to indulge herself in the pleasure of food. Gradually, her appetite turned more ravenous as she wolfed down the pieces of meat on her skewer to the point that she even choked on it at some point. Fortunately, Argentum was there to monitor her, sending her a blob of water to drink at the very instant he noticed her choking. After a few more minutes or so, the pieces of meat on the skewer had disappeared, with all of it ending up inside Herellia¡¯s stomach as a satisfied expression could be seen on her face.

    ¡°That was¡­delicious,¡± Herellia could not help but say, to which Argentum replied with a light chuckle, ¡°I¡¯m d you enjoyed it, then.¡±

    ¡°Speaking of which, I asked one of the friends I made during the journey I had to help you out in adjusting in your new existence level,¡± he said not long after, prompting Herellia to put on a curious expression as she asked, ¡°When are we heading there?¡±

    ¡°Well, whenever¡¯s fine,¡± Argentum said as he shrugged his shoulders, making Herellia ponder for a bit in silence. After some time, she wiped off the mess on her face after eating for the first time, using the ball of water as a mirror. Going silent for a bit more, she then looked at Argentum and said, ¡°Let¡¯s head there now.¡±

    ¡°Alright, then,¡± Argentum nodded as he asked, ¡°How about the alliance, though?¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s what I was thinking about while I was pondering,¡± Herellia said in response to Argentum¡¯s words before looking at Horell. ¡°And I¡¯ve made my decision.¡±

    ¡°Horell, I now proim you to be the new leader of the Verdant Blossom Breeze Alliance,¡± she said in a solemn tone, eliciting an aura of confusion to radiate from Horell at first¡­which instantly turned into surprise not long after.

    ¡°¡­eh?¡±

    ¡°¡­¡±

    ¡°¡­EH?!¡±

 Chapter 317: The Destined Meeting

    Chapter 317: The Destined Meeting

    ¡°You¡¯ve got to be kidding me, right?¡± Horell could not help but look at Herellia with a panicked aura surrounding him as he asked. Although he was expecting a change to how the alliance was going to be moderated since Herellia was going to leave for quite a substantial amount of time, he wasn¡¯t expecting that the change would be him turning into the official leader of the Verdant Blossom Breeze Alliance.

    While maintaining his panicked aura, he then shifted his vision to Argentum, who was beside him, and asked her, ¡°Wouldn¡¯t Argentum be a better fit for that position?¡±

    In response, Argentum could not help but let out a light sigh as he responded to Horell¡¯s question with a question of his own. Looking at him, he asked him, ¡°Are you sure about that, Horell? I¡¯m pretty sure Herellia doesn¡¯t think the same way as you, though.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re definitely a better fit for this position that I am, Argentum,¡± Horell replied with an insisting tone, adamant that Argentum was a better fit. Normally, one would ept such a position without hesitation since that meant an increase in authority and power. But for someone like Horell, who was afraid of messing things up, more authority meant more things he had to bnce, which could eventually lead to a scenario where he would mess everything up.

    Of course, such a situation only existed inside his mind, unless he did nothing to change it in reality.

    With that in mind, he continued to give out reasons as to why Argentum would be a better leader than him, exining, ¡°First off, Argentum is far stronger than me. With such a being taking the helm of the alliance, all of the members would rest assured that we wouldn¡¯t be beaten by any external entities that easily.¡±

    ¡°Second, he doesn¡¯t take anything at face value,¡± he continued. ¡°He always makes sure to get every perspective on a certain problem before giving out a solution for it, only settling for the oue that would result in the best effect. That¡¯s a big plus for managing the alliance, especially with a few internal problems popping up here and there.¡±

    ¡°Andstly, I have great confidence that he knows a lot of methods to nurture and improve the average strength of the alliance,¡± he added after taking a deep breath. ¡°With all of these reasons I¡¯ve just said, how could Argentum not be a good fit for the leader position of the alliance?¡±

    ¡°Well, Horell¡­¡± After Horell was finished exining his side, Argentum patted him on the shoulder as he said, ¡°You¡¯re missing something. I¡¯m sure Herellia has thought about making me the leader of the alliance while she waspondering a while ago, but I have something that youck.¡±

    ¡°Exactly what Argentum said,¡± Herellia nodded in response to Argentum¡¯s words as she looked at Horell before saying, ¡°There¡¯s something Argentumcks that only you have. I consider it the most important element when appointing someone as the new leader of the alliance.¡±

    ¡°What do you mean, Herellia?¡± Horell asked, his aura now taking hints of calmness. He then went through the various reasons he made to stabilize Argentum¡¯s position as a better leader of the alliance in his mind and thought that there were no problems with it. With that in mind, he continued, ¡°He¡¯s more or less a perfect fit in every way. What part is hecking in?¡±

    ¡°The thing that¡¯s hecking in¡­¡± Herellia responded.

    ¡°¡­is sociability.¡±

    ¡°Sociability?¡± Horell could not help but tilt his head in response, pondering in his head as to why that was a reason why he was chosen to be the next leader of the alliance and not Argentum. Fortunately, at this point, he had finallye to his senses, understanding what Herellia meant by sociability. Sensing the slight change in Horell¡¯s aura, Herellia lightly nodded as she asked him, ¡°Do you finally get what I¡¯m saying?¡±

    ¡°Is it because I know more about the various members of the alliance than Argentum does?¡± Horell asked, to which both Argentum and Herellia responded with a nod. Argentum then said to Horell, ¡°That¡¯s one of the most important reasons why you¡¯ve been chosen as a leader instead of me. The fact that you know more about the members means that there¡¯s a higher chance of having the internal conflicts be solved peacefully at a faster rate.¡±

    ¡°Also, if you think about it, only you two know that I¡¯m a part of the alliance. In any case, Aurus would be a better contender for the leader position than I am. At least he¡¯s recognized by the other members,¡± he continued, letting out a light chuckle at the end. Seeing that Argentum was taking all of it nonchntly, Herellia did not mind it and looked at Horell before asking, ¡°So, are you sure that you don¡¯t want to be the temporary leader of the alliance? At most, I¡¯m just asking you to make sure that things run smoothly. You don¡¯t really have to do anything drastically different while I¡¯m gone.¡±

    Since it seemed like there was no way for him to talk his way out of the position, in the end, Horell let out a long sigh before saying, ¡°Fine, fine, fine. I¡¯ll be the leader of the alliance while you¡¯re gone.¡±

    ¡°d to hear,¡± Herellia lightly smiled as she responded before closing her eyes not long after. A few secondster, a faint energy surrounded her body, which soon moved towards Horell¡¯s body before being absorbed by him. In less than an instant, the aura of power surrounding him had undergone a slight modification, increasing the feeling of magnanimity one felt when looking at Horell.

    Sensing that the transfer of authority was sessful, Herellia opened her eyes and lightly chuckled as she said, ¡°Congrattions, Horell. You¡¯re now the new temporary leader of the Verdant Blossom Breeze Alliance. Make sure to keep everything running smoothly while I¡¯m gone, okay?¡±

    ¡°Well, I can¡¯t say no to that now, can I?¡± Horell replied, letting out a meekugh soon after. He then looked at Argentum and asked, ¡°You¡¯ll help me out on the other problems of the alliance, right?¡±

    ¡°Unfortunately, I cannot do that, Horell,¡± Argentum said in response to Horell¡¯s question before adding, ¡°Once Herellia arrives safely at the ce where my friend lives, I¡¯ll be gone for quite some time as well. The earliest time I¡¯ll be back would be when Aurus wakes up.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯ve got to be me kidding me, right?!¡± At this point, Horell felt that all hope was lost, kneeling on the ground with a thud as he let out a loud sigh of disappointment. In response, Herellia and Argentum looked at him before looking at each other whileughing.

    After that, the three of them made up in their own ways, which led to Herellia and Argentum leaving Horell as they headed to the me Spirit Inheritance. As for Horell, he looked at the fleeting silhouettes of the two for a bit, only turning around to head back once he could just barely make out their silhouettes.

    ¡°I wonder how long it¡¯ll take for you two toe back,¡± Horell muttered to himself as he made his way back to the Verdant Blossom Breeze Alliance, lightly chuckling as he thought about the things he had to do while the two of them were gone.

    ¡­

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    While Horell was at the alliance, informing everyone about the change that had happened to the way the alliance was run, both Argentum and Herellia were heading to where the me Spirit Inheritance was at great speeds. Thanks to the movement speed boosting spells Argentum had in his arsenal, it did not take long for the two of them to arrive at the border that separated the wilderness and the Inferno ins, the ce where the me Spirit Inheritance.

    Experiencing firsthand on how hot it was, Argentum looked at Herellia and asked her, ¡°Do you have any skill that increases your resistance to the Fire element?¡±

    ¡°Hmm¡­let me check,¡± Herellia said before checking through her skills in the system she had. Not long after, she shook her head as she replied, ¡°Unfortunately, I do not. Evolving to the Animate existence level removed all of the skills I had ced a ton of effort on raising.¡±

    ¡°Well, that¡¯s natural,¡± Argentum replied, not surprised that Herellia¡¯s skills were wiped clean. Nevertheless, they still had to cross through the Inferno ins in order to arrive at the ce where Eleanor was, so they had to find a way to make sure that Herellia would be able to cross through the ins without feeling too much heat, or no heat at all.

    Fortunately, Argentum had ess to Aurus¡¯ memories, allowing him to skim through the various methods Animate yers had to withstand the harsh elements without having a skill that increases their resistance to it.

    ¡°Could you manipte your mana?¡± Argentum asked her, to which Herellia closed her eyes for a bit as she tried to get a feel for the energy circting inside her body. Due to her evolving to the Animate existence level, the usual energy she manipted, which used to be Stick Points, had been condensed and purified, with a single point containing tons more energy than a single Stick Point. This new form of energy wasmonly called mana by the Animates, though it was unknown where the word mana came from.

    After a while, a strand of light red energy was released through one of her fingers, prompting Herellia to open her eyes as she replied, ¡°I can manipte it¡­though it¡¯s a bit hard.¡±

    ¡°You just have to make sure that the energy you¡¯re manipting covers every inch of your body,¡± Argentum said to Herellia, inwardly letting out a sigh of relief that Herellia was able to manipte her energy. Of course, if she could not do so, he would not hesitate to use his energy to cover her body. The reason why he was doing this was because he wanted to help her obtain better control over her energy, which could be done while they were heading to the me Spirit Inheritance.

    Lightly nodding in response to Argentum¡¯s words, Herellia continued to manipte the energy inside her body, releasing it through her pores as she spread the energy she released throughout her body. Due to her inexperience with mana, it took around ten minutes for her to create a somewhat stable barrier over her skin, giving her a faint red hue.

    Making sure that there were no holes in her barrier, Argentum then told Herellia to follow him, to which she did. At the very instant they passed the boundary that led into the Inferno ins, Herellia instantly felt a wave of heat permeating throughout her body, which was fortunately mitigated by the energy barrier over her body. Although it offered her a bit of difort, it was not to the point where it was unbearable.

    Of course, Argentum noticed the difort Herellia was feeling, so he told Herellia that they were going to pick up the pace. Thanks to this, they had arrived at the boundary separating the inner area of the Inferno ins from the outer area in around fifteen minutes thanks to Argentum¡¯s buffs.

    At this point, he was not going to take any chances, using a decent portion of his energy to cover Herellia in a thickyer of energy, knowing how hot it was in the inner area. Making sure that every inch of Herellia¡¯s body was covered in a thick energy barrier once more, they then set forth into the inner area, with Herellia feeling a bit more difort at the very instant they set forth into it.

    Fortunately, the heightened feeling of difort did notst long as the two of them had arrived in front of an abandoned building that was charred to ruin around five minutester. At first, Herellia was curious as to why she came to this ce with Argentum, but after being transported into another space a few secondster, she now understood what was going on.

    Whoosh!

    In less than an instant, both Argentum and Herellia appeared in arge room decorated with various trinkets that were of various shades of red. Looking around, one could see sofas and chairs that were also a shade of red, though it contrasted very well with the walls of the room, being a lighter shade of redpared to the chairs.

    ¡°Are we where I think we are?¡± Herellia could not help but look at Argentum beside her and ask. In response, Argentum lightly nodded as an aura of slight glee radiated from him as he replied, ¡°It¡¯s exactly what you¡¯re thinking, Herellia.¡±

    ¡°We¡¯re inside an inheritance. Namely, the me Spirit Inheritance where one of my friends reside,¡± he continued, only to stop talking as he noticed a presence enter the room they were in. Focusing his vision on the presence that entered the room, he was left at a loss for words for a bit, which soon transformed into a light chuckle as he then said to Herellia, ¡°This is one of the friends I made on my journey. Herellia¡­¡±

    ¡°¡­meet Eleanor.¡±

 Chapter 318: Going Against Recommendations

    Chapter 318: Going Against Rmendations

    As Argentum introduced Herellia to Eleanor, Herellia was left at a loss for words as she did not expect to see such a beauty in what seemed to be a deste ce for Animates. In front of her was what one would normally consider a beauty that could make nations fall for them.

    Just like her Pseudo-Animate form, her figure had the curves on all the right ces, exuding a motherly aura in the process. Combined with her auburn hair that had red highlights at the very tips, as well as brown irises and a face that was pleasing to look at, Eleanor currently looked like a fairy on mortal soil.

    Argentum, on the other hand, thought differently about Eleanor, though he had to admit that her current form was quite beautiful. Nevertheless, he had an inkling of an idea as to why Eleanor was doing this, prompting him to use the connection they had with one another through the contract as he sent his energy towards it. Not long after, the two of them were connected in mind, allowing him to ask her, ¡°So¡­what made you do something like this, Eleanor?¡±

    ¡°What? Wouldn¡¯t it be weird for a body made out of mes to be greeting a human?¡± Eleanor hastily responded in a slightly sad tone, though on the outside, she was still looking at Herellia with a smile. She then got closer to her and extended her hand out for Herellia to shake. With a gentle tone, she then said to her, ¡°My name¡¯s Eleanor. I¡¯ve be acquainted with Argentum in his journey. It¡¯s nice to meet you.¡±

    Surprisingly, Herellia lightly blushed as she looked at Eleanor¡¯s light smile in a slight daze. Fortunately, she came back to her senses not long after as she grasped Eleanor¡¯s extended hand and shook it as she replied, ¡°It¡¯s nice to meet you as well, Eleanor. My name¡¯s Herellia. Please take good care of me.¡±

    ¡°Herellia¡­quite a good name,¡± Eleanor could not help but say with a light chuckle as she soon added, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Herellia. I¡¯ll make sure to take good care of you.¡±

    In response, Herellia could not help but lightly smile as a response to Eleanor¡¯s words, which inadvertently made Eleanor scream her heart out through the connection she had with Argentum, ¡°Ahhhhh! She¡¯s definitely my type!¡±

    ¡°d to hear that,¡± Argentum lightly chuckled in response to Eleanor¡¯s words, incredibly d that Eleanor had taken a liking to Herellia. At this moment, he went ahead and patted Herellia on the shoulder before looking at Eleanor and saying, ¡°Eleanor, I hope you teach Herellia everything she has to know as an Animate, okay?¡±

    ¡°I definitely won¡¯t hold back,¡± Eleanor lightly nodded with a giggle as she focused her vision towards Herellia and said, ¡°Herellia, dear, could you head to one of the rooms in this ce for a while? Argentum and I have to talk about something for a bit.¡±

    ¡°Ah, I see.¡± Herellia looked at Eleanor, then at Argentum for a bit, thinking that she had figured out what they were going to talk about as she nodded. Ignorant to what was going on in her mind, Eleanor snapped her fingers soon after, opening up a corridor on one of the walls, which led to a room that was decorated with the necessary amenities an Animate would need throughout their life.

    At first, Herellia lightly shuddered at the fact that Eleanor had the ability to do something like this. But after she thought about it for a while, it soon made sense in her mind, thinking that Eleanor was a strong Animate. As Herellia headed to the other room through the corridor, Eleanor and Argentum looked at each other for a bit in silence as the connection between them was cut off.

    ¡°How did you get to know her, Argentum?¡± Eleanor asked Argentum as she reverted to her original Pseudo-Animate form. In response, Argentum went silent for a bit as he recalled how Aurus hade to know Herellia. Of course, he wasn¡¯t going to tell Eleanor that he was the second body of another entity, since that fact was better off known by only a select few.

    And so, Argentum went ahead and narrated a shortened version of Aurus¡¯ meeting with Herellia. While narrating, he omitted the parts regarding the two of them having a system, as well as the inheritances he had a im on. After listening to Argentum¡¯s narration, Eleanor lightly nodded as she said, ¡°Quite an interesting story, to say the least¡­though there¡¯s something that¡¯s been bugging me.¡±

    She then squinted her eyes in suspicion as she asked him, ¡°At first, I wasn¡¯t sure, but after sensing her aura for a while, I think there¡¯s something special about her. Perchance¡­¡±

    ¡°Is she an Awakened?¡±

    ¡°To be honest, I¡¯m as clueless as you are,¡± Argentum replied with a light sigh. Although he slightly regretted the fact that he did not check her status through the system at the very instant she was finished evolving, he had a decent level of confidence that Herellia was an Awakened, considering the fact that her Existence Tribtion allowed her transitional evolutions to be enhanced twice.

    But since he had not made it certain through the system yet, it was better for him to not say it, which led to the current situation. Feeling that nothing was off, Eleanor did not pursue the matter any further as she said to him, ¡°If you want to, I could check if she¡¯s an Awakened or not.¡±

    ¡°Eh, it doesn¡¯t really matter that much to me,¡± Argentum replied as a thought surfaced in his mind rted to the me Spirit Inheritance. With this thought in mind, he then told her, ¡°Speaking of which, you still haven¡¯t given me the additional share on the inheritance after I gave you the recipe for the Heaven¡¯s me Potion.¡±

    Surprisingly, Eleanor radiated an aura of slight annoyance as she responded, ¡°Do you really want that additional share? Can¡¯t you just write it off as payment for me taking care of Herellia and helping her adjust to her new existence level? At most, it would only boost your power by a small degree, right?¡±

    Unexpectedly, Argentum thought that her words had sense to them, recalling how Eleanor told him that he did not need to give anything in exchange for taking care of Eleanor. Hearing that the small share of the inheritance was his payment for Eleanor taking care of Herellia, he shrugged his shoulders as he said, ¡°If you put it that way, then I won¡¯t pursue the matter any further. Just think of it as payment.¡±

    ¡°¡­eh? You serious?¡± Rather than lightly nod in agreement to Argentum¡¯s words, an aura of surprise instead surrounded Eleanor, as if she was looking at a different being. She then murmured to herself, ¡°I just said that as a joke, but who knew you¡¯d actually ept it¡­¡±

    Of course, Argentum, who had highly keen senses, heard her murmur, prompting him to let out a sigh as he scratched his head. Not waiting for Eleanor to ask him if he still wanted his share, he went ahead and told her, ¡°I¡¯m a man of my word. Just let it be.¡±

    ¡°On the other hand, I¡¯m still going to pursue something else,¡± he added, prompting an aura of curiosity to radiate from Eleanor as she asked, ¡°And what would that be?¡±

    ¡°Heaven¡¯s me Potions,¡± Argentum replied in a solemn tone before asking, ¡°Have you made some?¡±

    In response, Eleanor nodded as she released a strand of her energy, which headed towards a corridor that she had just opened. Not long after, the strand of energy hade back to where the two of them were, but it brought along over a dozen sks, surprising Argentum.

    ¡°Since you supplied me the recipe for the Heaven¡¯s me Potion, it makes sense for you to ask for some potions from me,¡± Eleanor said as she manipted the energy to ce the sks she brought in front of Argentum. Every sk in Argentum was filled to the brim with red viscous fluid, which faintly emanated the aura of the Fire element.

    ¡°Would 20 sks be sufficient for you?¡± she then asked him, to which Argentum nodded as he soonmanded the system to store all of these sks in front of him inside its inventory. Soon after, the sks disappeared in front of the two without a trace, making Eleanor take a few steps back in surprise as she was not expecting the sks to disappear like that all of a sudden. Although she was curious as to how Argentum was able to do that, she knew that it was better to not ask secrets, moving onto another topic.

    ¡°So, what are you going to do now that Herellia¡¯s here?¡± she asked, to which Argentum sinctly answered, ¡°I¡¯m going to head to an Earth-based inheritance.¡±

    ¡°Ah, right. How¡¯s Blob doing?¡± Just as he was about to talk about the ce he had in mind, he remembered that hispanion was in the me Spirit Inheritance, prompting him to ask Eleanor if he was well. In response, Eleanor lightly smiled as she replied, ¡°He¡¯s doing great, though he¡¯s currently undergoing secluded training. Who knew he would also have the ability to learn things within minutes?¡±

    ¡®Well, I guess I have to thank Aurus for that,¡¯ Argentum thought to himself as he lightly chuckled at Eleanor¡¯s words. Fortunately, she did not dawdle on the topic regarding Blob for long, returning to Argentum¡¯s previous statement as she asked, ¡°So, which Earth-based inheritance are you heading to?¡±

    ¡°The best one out of them, of course,¡± Argentum replied with a tone of confidence as he added, ¡°Of course, that inheritance is none other than the Desecrated Inheritance.¡±

    Unexpectedly, rather than be happy for Argentum that he was choosing an inheritance that sounded like it would offer him the highest benefits, Eleanor could not help but radiate an aura of slight disappointment as she asked him, ¡°Oh,e on. Did you really have to choose that inheritance?¡±

    ¡°Hm? What¡¯s wrong with it?¡± Argentum asked soon after, not expecting her to be against his choice of inheritance. Without dy, Eleanor responded, ¡°Well, the Desecrated Inheritance as a whole isn¡¯t really my problem. It¡¯s got great rewards and a great environment when ites to practicing the Earth element.¡±

    ¡°What I don¡¯t like about it is the being that owns it,¡± she soon added, prompting Argentum to ask her, ¡°Is there a reason why you don¡¯t like the being?¡±

    ¡°The guy¡¯s very fickle-minded, incrediblypetitive for no apparent reason, extremely arrogant, and¡­¡± she hastily replied to his question, only to notice that she was engrossed in her own thoughts. In the end, she lightly coughed as she said, ¡°In short, the owner of the Desecrated Inheritance is pretty bad. Even Felix has bad rtions with him.¡±

    ¡°Really?¡± Although Argentum was in disbelief that Felix had a bad rtionship with the owner of the Desecrated Inheritance, the solemn aura surrounding Eleanor at this moment meant that she was not kidding when she said it. With a light sigh to regain hisposure, he then asked her, ¡°Let¡¯s say I don¡¯t choose the Desecrated Inheritance. What other Earth-based inheritance would you rmend me?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯d highly rmend the Supreme Terra Firma Inheritance in that case,¡± Eleanor replied to Argentum¡¯s question with eagerness, which was weird at first, but soon became understandable as Argentum knew that she was actively trying to remove the idea of heading to the Desecrated Inheritance in his mind.

    ¡°Not only does it offer rewards that are better than that ursed inheritance, the environment it has when ites to training the Earth element is also incredibly great. Plus, the being that owns the inheritance is considered my life-and-deathpanion,¡± she continued to persuade Argentum. ¡°If you want, I could tell her to reduce the difficulty of the trials you¡¯d undergo.¡±

    ¡°Let me think about it for a bit,¡± Argentum said in response to Eleanor¡¯s words as he went silent. To Eleanor, it looked like he was thinking about her offer. But to Argentum, it was just a way to make it seem like he was contemting over her words. In actuality, he was set on heading to the Desecrated Inheritance, though he did think about heading to the Supreme Terra Firma Inheritance Eleanor mentioned at first.

    In the end, the reason why he chose the former over thetter was due to his proximity to the inheritance, taking Aurus¡¯ time of awakening in consideration. The Desecrated Inheritance was situated in a location slightly farther away than the Azure Shores, though it was still possibly to head to it and back to Tempest Cliff at his current level within a couple of days.

    On the other hand, the Supreme Terra Firma Inheritance was situated at the south of the continent, which meant that it would take a long time for him to get back to Tempest Cliff, although the rewards they offer areparably the same.

    Taking in a deep breath before letting out a sigh, he went ahead and looked at Eleanor. Thinking that this was a sign that Argentum had made up his mind, Eleanor eagerly asked her, ¡°So¡­have you made your decision?¡±

    ¡°Yeah,¡± Argentum replied as he nodded. Before Eleanor could ask what inheritance he had chosen in his mind, Argentum interrupted her from doing so as he told her, ¡°The inheritance I¡¯ve chosen will definitely not disappoint you.¡±

    Hearing this, Eleanor was about to say something at first, but then decided not to. Instead, she told him with a nod, ¡°I see. Well, good luck.¡±

    ¡°Thanks,¡± Argentum said as he radiated a faint aura of glee. Before he disappeared in front of Eleanor¡¯s field of vision, he went ahead and told her, ¡°Take good care of Herellia for me, okay?¡±

    Whoosh!

    And just like that, Argentum disappeared from her field of vision, leaving Eleanor to herself as an aura of glee surrounded her. Not long after, an aura of curiosity and suspicion surrounded her as she muttered to herself, ¡°I got to ask Felix to spy on Argentum.¡±

    ¡°I have a feeling he¡¯ll definitely go to that ce.¡±

 Chapter 319: Heading to the Northwest

    Chapter 319: Heading to the Northwest

    Whoosh!

    Appearing outside the abandoned building that served as the entrance to the me Spirit Inheritance, Argentum took in a deep breath as he adjusted to his surroundings. Soon after, hemanded the system in his mind to bring up a map of the surrounding areas. Naturally, a notification sound apanied his requests, revealing a decently sized holographic screen in front of his field of vision soon after. In it contained a great portion of the territory that made up the Inferno ins.

    Of course, hemanded the system to zoom out on the map, revealing some of the areas that surrounded the Inferno ins. In fact, at the very top edge of the screen, he could even see a bit of the Azure Shores where Felix¡¯s inheritance was. Surprisingly, that amount of magnification wasn¡¯t enough to Argentum,manding the system to zoom out once more, specifically asking it to zoom out at a magnification that would allow him to view around 30% of the continent he was in.

    Whoosh!

    Apanied by the faint sound of wind in order to immerse Argentum into the map, the system acquiesced to his request, allowing him to view a decent portion of the continent he was in, though it was mostly the upper region of the continent. Scratching his head for a bit as he pondered as to where the Desecrated Inheritance was located, he then told the system to bring up the names of areas on the map. Unsurprisingly, with the area names now on therge map, he would now be able to navigate through the areas even better.

    ¡°As expected, Tempest Cliff is situated near the west of the continent,¡± he muttered to himself as he also used this time setting a marker to where the Desecrated Inheritance was to get a better sense of where he was at the moment. The Inferno ins was situated at the northwest region of the Tempest Cliff, separated by a couple of areas. On the other hand, the Azure Shores was situated at the north-northeast region of the Inferno ins, though the distance between the two was at least three timesrger than the distance between the first two.

    Eventually, his sense of visionnded on the area where the Desecrated Inheritance was, a ce that had a name which perfectly fit the inheritance it housed: The Desecrated Terran Ruins. From its name, one could get a basic idea of what it contained, giving anyone the idea that it was an area that housed multiple ruins that eroded with time.

    Well¡­let¡¯s just say that the eroded ruins are considered the tip of the iceberg in this area.

    While looking at where the Desecrated Terran Ruins was located, Argentum could not help but let out a light chuckle as he murmured to himself, ¡°From this angle, it¡¯s like I¡¯m looking at the tip of a bean.¡±

    ¡°In any case, I should really head to the ruins as soon as possible,¡± he soon added, looking at the position of the sun for a bit before setting a marker on the map. After confirming that the marker was set to the Desecrated Terran Ruins, he then closed the screen in front of him before activating all of the movement speed boosting spells he had in his arsenal.

    ¡°At my current speed, I might be able to arrive at the ce at around dawn,¡± he muttered as he calcted his estimated time of arrival, taking into consideration that it was now currentlyte afternoon. Without hesitation, he then directed all of the strength in his body towards his feet before zooming off in the direction of the Desecrated Terran Ruins.

    ¡­

    Of course, Argentum wasn¡¯t someone who liked to waste time while heading towards a certain ce after knowing it would take him quite some time to arrive there. With that kind of mindset, it wasn¡¯t surprising for him to grind his skills while his feet were still moving. During this journey, he decided to focus on the passive skills he had that enhanced his senses, thinking that it was a great advantage to be able to obtain more information through one¡¯s senses.

    This monotonous process continued on for around seven hours, with the moon even recing the sun¡¯s ce by the time Argentum took a break. Sitting down on the ground while lying on arge boulder to rest his feet, he took in a few deep breaths as he summed up the progress he had made while grinding his passive skills.

    ¡°Since I¡¯ve only been grinding these things for less than half a day, they¡¯ve only reached the Adept level, though they¡¯re not that far from reaching the Expert level,¡± Argentum muttered to himself as he allowed his senses to work at its full extent, getting a better feel of his current surroundings.

    He subconsciously nodded afterward, radiating an aura of satisfaction as he continued to talk to himself, saying, ¡°If I keep this pace up, I might be able to reach the Artisan level for all of these skills, or perhaps, even Master level.¡±

    Rustle¡­rustle¡­

    Just as he was about to get back to traveling to the Desecrated Terran Ruins, his newly amplified sense of hearing could not help but hear faint rustling sounds from a small forest that was not too far away from him. At first, he thought that these sounds came from grazing beasts so he paid it no heed. But then, the rustling sounds gradually became louder, as if it was heading towards his direction. At that point, Argentum decided to use all of his senses to their fullest extent, focusing it in the direction of the rustling sounds.

    And when he did just that, he could not help but radiate an aura of confusion, as well as slight surprise. Wondering if he had seen wrongly, his sense of vision focused on the sight of a hazy blue silhouette that seemed to look like a blur even when he tried his hardest to make out what it was. Fortunately, after a few passes of the blue silhouette darting through the forest, he finally had an idea as to who the blue silhouette was, prompting him to ask, ¡°Felix¡­are you following me?¡±

    ¡°Urk.¡± Hearing that question, the blue silhouette let out a sound as it stopped darting around. Letting out a sigh, it then got out of the trees and shrubs, showing his blue body that blended into the background in front of Argentum. Scratching his head in slight confusion, he looked at Argentum in front of him and said, ¡°I¡¯m surprised you were able to see me even when I was moving too fast.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s more like you wanted me to notice you, and that¡¯s why you moved too fast,¡± Argentum said in response to Felix¡¯s words, prompting Felix to move as if he took a punch in the gut before letting out a short cackle. Soon after, he took in a deep breath as he asked, ¡°Was it that obvious?¡±

    ¡°What do you think should be my answer to that question?¡± Argentum replied to Felix¡¯s question with a question of his own as he pondered over Felix¡¯s appearance at this moment. Although he didn¡¯t have a clue as to why Felix appeared in front of him at first, it did not take long for him to connect the dots as he radiated a solemn expression towards Felix before asking, ¡°Did Eleanor send you?¡±

    ¡°Bingo,¡± Felix responded with an aura of glee radiating from him, which turned into slight disappointment as he let out a sigh. Unexpectedly, after hearing Felix sigh, Argentum let out a sigh as well as he murmured, ¡°Why do I feel like this was bound to happen as long as Eleanor got involved?¡±

    ¡°She just cares about you, that¡¯s all,¡± Felix replied, only to add a few more words with a slightly tired tone to it as he continued, ¡°Though I¡¯d rather have her not butt into other people¡¯s lives every so often.¡±

    ¡°Do you hate the owner of the Desecrated Inheritance as well, Felix?¡± Argentum could not help but ask, recalling how Eleanor told him that Felix disliked the guy as well. In response, Felix scratched his head as he recalled his memories with the Desecrated Inheritance¡¯s owner as he slowly replied, ¡°Well¡­it¡¯s not really to the point of hating him. At most I just dislike him for what he did. That¡¯s all there is to it. Other than that, he¡¯s a good guy in my books.¡±

    ¡°What he did?¡± Argentum focused on this certain portion of Felix¡¯s statement as he continued to question him, ¡°What did he do?¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t know what the motive behind it was, but after meeting with Eleanor, he decided to get cocky around her, assert dominance, brag about stuff that isn¡¯t normally talked about, and so on,¡± Felix replied, taking a small breath before continuing, ¡°Surprisingly, that guy doesn¡¯t act that way around me. At most, only a small sense of pride could be felt from him. Then again, he¡¯s stronger than both me and Eleanor, so I know why there¡¯s that air to him.¡±

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡± Argentum hemmed and hawed over Felix¡¯s words for a bit, feeling that there was something unusual about the owner of the Desecrated Inheritance. Unfortunately, he could not put his foot as to what was wrong with the guy, so he chalked it off as the guy probably having a neurotic episode, cing the thought at the back of his head after that.

    Not long after, he stood up and took a look at the sky, noticing that it was getting deep into the night. Knowing that he still had to trek a great distance in order to arrive at the Desecrated Terran Ruins, Argentum looked at Felix as he activated his movement speed boosting spells and asked, ¡°So, what are you gonna do now that I found out you were spying on me?¡±

    Unsurprisingly, Felix shrugged his shoulders as he replied with an air of indifference, ¡°Eh. I could head back, or I coulde with you to the Desecrated Terran Ruins. Either way, I¡¯ll still tell Eleanor the opposite of what she wants to hear from me. If she hears from me that you went to the Desecrated Inheritance, she definitely won¡¯t hesitate to go all out on the owner of the Desecrated Inheritance.¡±

    ¡°Seriously? Does she want the guy off the face of this world or something?¡± Argentum seriously felt that something weird was going on with Eleanor, though he still could not put a finger on what was wrong. Nevertheless, he and Felix couldn¡¯t care less about the reason why she was like that, knowing that her rtionship with that being wouldn¡¯t affect the two of them at all.

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡± As he redirected all of the strength in his body towards his feet, Argentum pondered as to whether he would have Felix join him on his journey to the Desecrated Terran Ruins or not. In the end, he deactivated all of the movement speed boosting spells on his body as he looked at Felix and asked, ¡°Would you mind if you helped me travel to the Desecrated Terran Ruins?¡±

    In response, Felix let out a faint aura of glee as he replied, ¡°That¡¯s not a problem to me at all.¡±

    Soon after, Felix released a great amount of energy through his fingers, enveloping the two of them as he then used this energy to propel both of them in the direction of the Desecrated Terran Ruins. It was no surprise that the speed at which they traversed the distance between where they were and where they wanted to go was miles apart from the speed at which Argentum was traveling.

    And so, by the time the moon had reached the peak of the sky, both Argentum and Felix were near the Desecrated Terran Ruins, continuing to zoom across thendscape in the air as the two of them chatted about things that ranged from they were going to do after this journey was done, to what they could improve upon in terms ofbat power and whatnot, though they did not go too in-depth into thetter.

    A few minutester, the two of them were finally hovering near the boundary that separated the wilderness and the area that is the Desecrated Terran Ruins. Reducing the amount of energy surrounding the two of them to gradually descend to the ground, Felix looked at Argentum and said, ¡°Although I know you won¡¯t die in that ce, remember to still be careful.¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Felix. I know what I¡¯m doing,¡± Argentum replied, letting out a light chuckle soon after. ¡°If I wasn¡¯t, then I wouldn¡¯t havee here in the first ce.¡±

    ¡°Well, I hope you get what you need from the inheritance and I definitely hope it helps you out in the Origin Trials,¡± Felix said in response as he let out a light chuckle as well. After that, he turned around and summoned all of the energy in his body, releasing it in onerge burst as he headed in the direction of the Inferno ins at a speed far greater than what the two of them were traveling on.

    ¡°Guess he was holding back in consideration of me,¡± Argentum lightlyughed as he muttered before turning his head to look at the direction of the Desecrated Terran Ruins. Though he could not see the insides of the area as tons of dust was flying in the air, he knew that all of it would change once he stepped foot into the Desecrated Terran Ruins.

    ¡°Well then.¡±

    ¡°I should go and do what I came for.¡±

 Chapter 320: Venturing Through Dust

    Chapter 320: Venturing Through Dust

    Swish! Swish! Swish!

    At the very instant Argentum took a few steps inside the Desecrated Terran Ruins, the first feeling that washed over his body was the feeling of being pushed down on all sides. No matter whether he leaned, squatted down, or did any other movement, there would be the feeling of a somewhat heavy weight over his body. Of course, since he was a Pseudo-Animate, that was the only downside he got from the area. If he was an Animate, then he would have brought some goggles as the dust inside the area was notorious for blinding people, both temporarily and permanently.

    Trying to ignore the feeling of being weighed down with every step he took, he went ahead and used all of his movement speed boosting spells in order to speed up his journey to the Desecrated Inheritance. Surprisingly, once he did this, the feeling of being weighed down had intensified by a few degrees, making it feel like he was stepping on quicksand. Then again, the distance he traversed under this feeling was still around the same, though it was still distracting and ufortable.

    Deciding to put an end to this, Argentum deactivated all of the spells on his body after he moved about a hundred meters into the area. After that, he sat down on the ground andmanded the system to bring up a map of the area he was in. It did not take long for him to set a marker at the center of the Desecrated Terran Ruins, as that ce was where the Desecrated Inheritance was located.

    After double checking that the marker was set in ce, he then closed the screen in front of his field of vision before pulling up his skill list, focusing his attention towards one of the skills he had learned while he was inside the Verdant Blossom Breeze Alliance.

    While recalling about the skill, he could not help but recall the 6panions Aurus had beside him, prompting him to mutter to himself, ¡°I totally forgot about telling them that I was going to go on a journey. I should always remember to do that.¡±

    He then ced this thought at the back of his head as he returned his focus on one of the passive skills he had on list, namely the [Earth Affinity] skill which he had obtained after consuming the Heaven¡¯s Earth Potion. Although it would¡¯ve allowed him to reach the Animate level of understanding if he were to use the potion here, he still thought that his current progress regarding Earth element was okay. Of course, that was taking into consideration that he had inherited Aurus¡¯ insanely highprehension speed.

    Taking in a deep breath as he attuned his body to the surroundings, he soon went ahead and allocated all of his time to raising the level of [Earth Affinity]. Since it was around midnight, to him, it was the perfect time to be focusing on grinding up skills as there was more or less no distractions at this time, especially in a ce like this.

    And so, as minutes and hours passed by, his understanding of the Earth element gradually became deeper and deeper as he felt more and more connected with the Earth energy particles in the area. In fact, while enhancing the skill, he could not help but ponder to himself why there was an overabundance of Earth energy particles in the area. Though it was beneficial for him since it meant that the effects of the Heaven¡¯s Earth Potion would be boosted once he consumed it, he still felt that it was a bit odd.

    By the time he stopped grinding [Earth Affinity], it was alreadyte in the morning. Opening up his sense of vision as he stood up to lightly stretch his body, he felt that the weight pushing down on his body had now be multiple times lighter, to the point where he could even ignore it if he wanted to.

    Naturally, that was due to the fact that his [Earth Affinity] had now reached the S-grade Mortal level. If he put in a bit more time into it, it wouldn¡¯t be impossible for him to reach the X-grade Mortal level for the skill. But since he found out that achieving the True Element level of affinity for an element would reset his progress back to zero, this was more than enough for him right now.

    Astonishingly, rather than head deeper into the Desecrated Terran Ruins after raising [Earth Affinity] to S-grade Mortal level, he instead sat down on the ground once more as he made himselffortable. After that, he opened up his upper torso, revealing the Tome of the Four Elements, something he hadn¡¯t used for a while.

    Rather than cing it on the ground and opening it as usual, Argentum went ahead and conjured tendrils on his upper torso, using four to hold the book up as he conjured another two to flip through the pages of the book. It did not take long for him to arrive at the portion where the book focused on the Earth element, using his tendrils to absorb all of the information written regarding certain skills he wanted to learn that leaned towards it.

    After making sure that the information he had obtained from the tome was imprinted in his mind, he then opened up his upper torso and ced the tome back as he dispersed the tendrils he had conjured. Sealing his upper torso shut to make sure that the tome doesn¡¯t fall, he then closed his sense of vision as he now used his heightened affinity towards the Earth element to make the learning process of the two Earth-based skills he had in mind easier.

    Unsurprisingly, the two Earth-based skills he chose were [Earth Resistance] and [Lesser Earth Magic]. Adding on [Earth Affinity], it made up the basicbo an elemental mage would have in terms of skills. Since he had a feeling that he would obtain more Earth-based skills from the Desecrated Inheritance, he decided that learning these two would be enough for him to be prepared for the trials that came along with the inheritance.

    And with that, he had sessfully learned both [Earth Resistance] and [Lesser Earth Magic] as it had just be afternoon. Opening his sense of vision after obtaining notifications that he had learned both skills, he then stood up and lightly stretched his body once more, subconsciously radiating an aura of slight glee as he noticed that the heavy feeling pushing down on his body had disappeared after he learned [Earth Resistance].

    ¡°Although I could invest more time into enhancing these two skills, having low-leveled skills would definitely offer me a greater selection of trials to choose from,¡± Argentum muttered to himself as he recalled the trials Aurus had undergone through the Desecrated Inheritance in the past, the difficulty of those trials being corrted to the level of Earth-based skills he had.

    With nothing holding him down, he went ahead and activated his movement speed boosting spells once more, this time feeling a sense of satisfaction from feeling as light as a feather. Not even a few secondster, he was far away from where he was grinding his skills, dashing towards the center of the Desecrated Terran Ruins without hesitation.

    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!

    While making his way to the Desecrated Inheritance, whenever he found a skeleton lying near some ruined walls or pirs, he would go ahead and snatch their femur bones before cing them into the system¡¯s inventory. Naturally, Argentum felt that it was weird at first, but after looking through Aurus¡¯ memories regarding the inheritance, he knew that these femur bones he collected would serve a purposeter on.

    Not only that, but collecting the femur bones also made Argentum realize what kind of ce the Desecrated Terran Ruins was. Although he already had an idea as to what it was like thanks to Aurus¡¯ memories of it, experiencing it firsthand was still better than obtaining information of it from another person.

    From the name itself, the Desecrated Terran Ruins was littered to the brim with ruins. These ruins ranged from incredibly dpidated buildings, to pirs where only the base could be seen, to even houses that seemed to have been hit by a meteor. Of course, that wasn¡¯t all.

    Since it had the word ¡®Desecrated¡¯ on its name, that meant that the area was actually arge graveyard, with the buildings, pirs, and all that making up a great portion of the mausoleums. Only a scant few of those housed living people in the past, where all of the people who tended to the graveyards lived in. Naturally, these mausoleums were ransacked by grave robbers in the past, giving it the name it currently had. If not for that, then it might have been called the Ruined Terran Graveyard, or the Terran Graveyard Ruins.

    ¡­

    By the time Argentum had reached the central area of the Desecrated Terran Ruins, the sun was already around half an hour to setting down. Nevertheless, since there was still light, Argentum could not help but feel proud as he looked at therge building in front of him. To be honest, it would be more urate to call this ce arge and empty mausoleum as it was devoid of furniture. On top of that, it was the only building in the area to remain standing, even after everything that happened, which caused the other mausoleum to turn into ruins.

    Of course, Argentum didn¡¯t mind that as hemanded the system to bring out all of the femur bones he had collected from the skeletons he came across. Unsurprisingly, a cacophony of sounds where bone hit bone resounded throughout the area, only stopping when the pile of bones in front of him had reached a height where it could reach his kneecaps¡­if he had them anyway.

    ¡°141 femur bones¡­¡± Argentum muttered to himself, recalling the odd one out that only had one femur bone instead of two. Soon after, he went ahead and got to work as he grabbed a small portion of the femur bones he collected before dropping it inside the mausoleum. He then rearranged the bones into a small circle while 5 femur bones were arranged into an asterisk at the very center. While doing so, he tried to recall how the bones were arranged in Aurus¡¯ memories as he continued to grab more femur bones from the pile outside, forming more concentric circles around the original circle he made.

    Once the bones he had obtained ran out, 5 concentric circles of varying sizes surrounded an asterisk made of femur bones, allowing an aura of satisfaction and seriousness to radiate out of Argentum¡¯s body as he then tried to recall what he had to do next in order to officially enter the inheritance.

    The truth was, the arrangement of femur bones he just did could be consider as the first key to entering the inheritance. There was a total of 3 keys one needed in order to enter the Desecrated Inheritance, and he had already fulfilled two of them, with the second key being Earth-based skills. As for the final key, it was an incantation that could only be obtained by the fated.

    But since Argentum had ess to Aurus¡¯ memories, he had ess to this incantation as he muttered to himself in slight embarrassment, ¡°Do I really have to say this?¡±

    Letting out a loud sigh to remove all of the embarrassment he was feeling, he then took in a deep breath as he tried to maintain a solemn aura around him. Making sure that he was asposed as he could ever be, he then extended his hands towards the asterisk at the center as he stood outside the concentric circles. Soon after, a faint brown glow could be seen emitting from his palms as he then said in the most solemn tone he could ever muster.

    ¡°Oh, supreme being blessed and cursed by both heaven and hell, heed my words as my offering of femur bones shall be the connection guiding me to the truth.¡±

    ¡°Let me bask in your corrupted light, learning of both desecration and ruination as mountains and rivers move with the passing of time.¡±

    ¡°I beseech Lord Calcifas of the Evernorth Desert to please ept my pleas and let me into your heavenly eden.¡±

    ¡°In your name, I solemnly pray¡­¡±

    ¡°Calcifas the Great, may your bones be unbreakable!¡±

    Whoosh!

    After he was finished with his incantation, the femur bones he ced on the inside of mausoleum started to glow a faint purple, which would then change into a faint brown light from time to time. At first, the change between the two colors took some time, but as time went on, the frequency at which they changed became more and more frequent, to the point that the two colors started flickering on the bones at the same time.

    Bang!

    Eventually, the flickering had reached its limit as all of the femur bones shone of brown and purple light simultaneously, heading towards Argentum¡¯s palms, which currently shone with brown light. Using that as the medium, the brown and purple lights soon covered his body as he felt space distorting around his body.

    Sensing this, he couldn¡¯t help but radiate an aura of astonishment as he muttered to himself, ¡°It¡­worked?¡±

    ¡°Haha¡­it worked! It actually worke¡ª!¡±

    Unfortunately for him, he couldn¡¯t finish hisst statement as he was then sent to another space.

 Chapter 321: Welcome to the Evernorth Desert

    Chapter 321: Wee to the Evernorth Desert

    While Argentum was being transported into another ce as his final statement was left interrupted, a different thing was taking ce inside the Inferno ins. Namely, inside the me Spirit Inheritance.

    Whoosh!

    ¡°Well that was a nice detour,¡± a blue silhouette could not help but mutter to himself with slight glee as he looked at the dpidated building in front of him, prompting him to let out a sigh soon after. Although he knew what kind of person Eleanor was after spending a ton of time with her after all these millennia, he still could not help but shudder with fear whenever he remembered Eleanor¡¯s aggressive side.

    ¡°I hope the rxing detour I took gives me enough strength to not slip up while saying what I have to say,¡± Felix added not long after, taking in a deep breath before circting all of the energy inside his body to enter the me Spirit Inheritance.

    Swish!

    It did not take long for Felix to appear in the room where Eleanor usually stayed, radiating an aura of calmness as he looked around his surroundings. His sense of vision stopped at the fiery silhouette of a woman, who radiated an aura of seriousness as she looked at Felix and asked, ¡°So, where did Argentum go?¡±

    ¡°Fortunately, he listened to your rmendations,¡± Felix said with an aura of light glee, recalling the conversation he had with Argentum regarding this topic. If Argentum did not say anything about this while they were heading to the Desecrated Terran Ruins, then the chances of him slipping up might have increased. With a light chuckle, he continued, ¡°Rest assured, Eleanor. He went to the Supreme Terra Firma Inheritance, just like you said.¡±

    ¡°Hoh? Is that really the case?¡± Eleanor, who listened to Felix¡¯s response, could not help but be inwardly suspicious, though on the outside, she remained indifferent. After going silent for a bit, she then lets out a light sigh as she looked at him and said, ¡°In any case, I apologize for asking you to do this. I know you¡¯re a busy guy and all that, concocting tons of Heaven¡¯s Water Potions everyday.¡±

    ¡°Well, I could say the same for you,¡± Felix replied, letting out a light chuckle as he asked her, ¡°I presume you¡¯re going to sell it through your connections?¡±

    ¡°Of course, but the potency of the potions will be reduced to about 10% of the original,¡± Eleanor responded to his question with a light sigh, her sense of vision focusing on one of the corridors as she added, ¡°That way, I¡¯d be able to at least have a decent flow of money in order to help out Argentum¡¯s Animate friend.¡±

    ¡°Oh? His friend is here?¡± Felix¡¯s interest was instantly piqued, looking around the various corridors that were connected to the room they were in, only to decide in the end that there was no point snooping around as he felt that Argentum would introduce his friend to him in the future anyway. Shrugging his shoulders, he then turned around as he asked, ¡°Is there anything else you want me to do before I leave?¡±

    ¡°Nah, that¡¯s pretty much it,¡± Eleanor waved her hands as she replied. ¡°Thanks for the help as always, Felix.¡±

    ¡°No problem,¡± Felix responded in a nonchnt tone as he circted all of the energy inside his body once more, allowing him to leave the inside of the me Spirit Inheritance in less than an instant. At the very instant his presence was not felt around the area anymore, Eleanor¡¯s aura, which took on a bit of indifference and nonchnce, hastily changed into that of extreme suspicion as she muttered, ¡°Felix¡¯s response is smooth¡­too smooth in fact.¡±

    As she said that, she could not help but let out a light sigh as she released a bit of her energy, transforming it into a clone of her that would allow her to stillmunicate with Herellia while she was away. Making sure that the clone had enough energy inside that would allow it tost for days, Eleanor then muttered to herself, ¡°In the end, I¡¯ll only be satisfied once I obtain information from Argentum firsthand.¡±

    Naturally, she knew that she could contact him through the connection they had, but since she had a feeling that he was already attempting the trials of the inheritance he chose, she opted toe to where the inheritance was instead. Circting all of the energy inside her body, she went outside of the me Spirit Inheritance just like Felix, taking a quick look at the sun that was already near the peak of the sky.

    Releasing a great amount of energy to propel herself at breakneck speeds, Eleanor went ahead and headed towards a certain direction as she said, ¡°For now, I¡¯ll head to the Supreme Terra Firma Inheritance and ask if Argentum¡¯s there.¡±

    ¡°If not¡­¡±

    ¡°Then, be prepared to meet your maker, Argentum.¡±

    ¡­

    Whoosh!

    After a few seconds or so, the feeling of having space distort around his body had stopped, allowing Argentum to gaze at the wondrous sight in front of him¡­or at least, what was once a wondrous sight. Scratching his head as he tried to recall whether or not the ce he ended up in was the right ce, he went ahead and assessed his surroundings through his enhanced senses, giving him a better idea as to where he was.

    Unsurprisingly, it did not take long for him toe to a conclusion, radiating an aura of slight glee as he muttered to himself, ¡°Fortunately, the incantation I used was the right one. If Aurus¡¯ memories are correct, then I¡¯m currently in the qualification trial of the Desecrated Inheritance, the Evernorth Desert.¡±

    Although it was unknown as to how a whole desert was ced inside an inheritance like the Desecrated Inheritance, ording to Aurus¡¯ memories, the Evernorth Desert used to house threerge desert kingdoms, which all had around three hundred thousand peoplebined, working harmoniously with one another. Unfortunately, this era of peace was ended by someone named Calcifas, who was the person he mentioned while trying to get ess into the inheritance.

    Pondering as to what he was going to do now that he was in the Evernorth Desert, a disembodied voice resounded throughout the area all of a sudden, giving off an imposing vibe as it muttered, ¡°Wee, inheritor candidate, to the Desecrated Inheritance. I shall be your guide in this inheritance, and I hope you pass through all of the trials Lord Calcifas shall give you.¡±

    ¡°Currently, you¡¯re inside the Evernorth Desert, the desert where the first feats of the great Lord Calcifas have ben witnessed,¡± the disembodied voice continued to talk, its tone that of awe and reverence. ¡°To pay pilgrimage to the great Lord Calcifas, you must trek the Evernorth Desert in search of its exit. Once you find the exit, you shall be eligible to enter the true Desecrated Inheritance, and obtain boundless amounts of power.¡±

    ¡°As a hint to reach the exit, heed my words,¡± it added after it exined what Argentum had to do to start the Desecrated Inheritance. ¡°The earth shall be your guide, let its embrace envelop you as it shall lead you to the end.¡±

    ¡°May you be sessful in reaching the end, inheritor candidate,¡± the disembodied voice said its final words before disappearing, allowing Argentum to start trekking through the Evernorth Desert. Of course, before going ahead and starting his journey through the desert, the first thing he did was process and organize the information he had obtained from the disembodied voice, where most of it was rted to the great Lord Calcifas, who Argentum thought was the owner of the Desecrated Inheritance.

    ¡°I wonder how long this Calcifas guy has been alive?¡± Argentum could not help but think to himself, recalling how old Felix and Eleanor were. Nevertheless, this thought was ced at the back of his head as he recalled that he was here to obtain Earth-based skills from the inheritance, and not to find out the rtionship between the three¡­though it was not a lie to say that he was interested.

    After processing all of the information he had obtained from the disembodied voice, he then recalled Aurus¡¯ memories regarding the Evernorth Desert, wondering if the words spoken by the voice inside his memory were more or less the same with what the disembodied voice said to him. Fortunately, that was indeed the case, with the voice inside Aurus¡¯ memory saying something along the lines of letting the earth guide him towards the end.

    With that being confirmed, Argentum already knew what he had to do in order to find the exit in the Evernorth Desert and officially arrive at the Desecrated Inheritance. Closing his sense of vision without hesitation, he then allowed one of his passive skills to rece his sight as it offered him a new perspective on what the Evernorth Desert was like.

    The passive skill that reced his sight¡­was [Earth Affinity]. From the hint given by the disembodied voice itself, it told Argentum to let the earth guide him towards the exit. Naturally, the best way to let the earth guide someone like him towards the exit was to be one with the earth, and thus, [Earth Affinity] was activated.

    At the very instant the skill reced his sense of vision, he was able to find out that a great amount of Earth energy particles could be seen in the surroundings, though most of it congregated towards the sand he was stepping on, transforming into strands of pale brown light. These strands then connected with one another, transforming into thick brown lines that served as pathways amidst the mostly darkndscape offered by [Earth Affinity].

    Surprisingly, these thick brown lines were arranged in a maze-like pattern that covered the entirety of the Evernorth Desert, though Argentum wasn¡¯t sure about thest part since his [Earth Affinity] was only at the S-grade Mortal level. It did offer him greater range as to how many thick brown lines on the sand he could see, but he did not have the ability to view all of the lines making up the hidden maze of the Evernorth Desert, thinking that it was only possible if he had achieved [True Earth Affinity].

    ¡°Well, let¡¯s get started,¡± Argentum said to psych himself up as he knew that this journey was going tost for quite some time. Since it was a maze, then he already had a strategy up his sleeve that would allow him to reach the end, though not at the fastest time. Making sure to focus his skill towards the right side of every thick brown linehe was walking on, he went ahead and activated about half of his movement speed boosting spells, giving himself some leeway when it came to sensing where he was going to go.

    Naturally, the strategy that he used when traversing the maze was a ssic, which was to ce one¡¯s hand on the right side of the wall and use that as a way to find the exit. Of course, this strategy would not apply to all mazes as some mazes had the ability to change shape, depending on who made it. Thankfully, the owner of the Desecrated Inheritance did not bother to make it change shape, giving beings like Argentum, who knew what to do inside the Evernorth Desert, assurance in getting to the official portion of the Desecrated Inheritance.

    And so, Argentum went on and traversed through the Evernorth Desert, allowing his [Earth Affinity] to act as his eyes as he followed the paths of the thick brown lines. From a bystander, it would seem that Argentum was walking around in circles for some time, then walk straight for others, then walk in a random direction after that. Even though it was a bit hrious to think about, Argentum continued to make progress through the maze, feeling that he had reached the halfway point of the Evernorth Desert¡¯s maze by around three hours or so.

    By the time he had sensed the exit, it was already five hours since he started walking through the maze. At the very instant he was able to sense it, he activated one more movement speed boosting spell, significantly increasing the speed at which he traversed the thick brown lines making up the maze before finally arriving at the exit.

    Whoosh!

    At the very instant he touched the exit of the maze, which was arge circle made out of lighter brown lines, the disembodied voice that gave him advice at the start resounded throughout the area once more. It said with a tone of praise, ¡°Congrattions, inheritor candidate, for arriving at the end of the Evernorth Desert in a time of 5 hours, and 12 minutes.¡±

    ¡°Since you have arrived at the end of the Evernorth Desert at a time four times faster than the general average, the Desecrated Inheritance has decided to give you a chance to select one skills from the inheritance¡¯s skill list. To ess it, just step beyond the exit you¡¯re stepping on and everything else will naturally take ce,¡± it continued.

    Since Argentum was now done traversing through the hidden maze of the Evernorth Desert, he opened his sense of vision once more, revealing a doorway that shone quite intensely with brown light. Without hesitation, he took a few steps into the doorway, being transported to another ce as the disembodied voice that guided him resounded throughout the area.

    ¡°The inheritor candidate has officially entered the Desecrated Inheritance.¡±

    ¡°Adjusting trial difficulty ording to the inheritor candidate¡¯s results¡­¡±

    ¡°Trial difficulty has been sessfully adjusted.¡±

    ¡°Difficulty has been set to Prodigy grade.¡±

 Chapter 322: A Bout with a Serpent

    Chapter 322: A Bout with a Serpent

    Swoosh!

    As Argentum continued to walk while allowing the brown light around him to engulf his sense of vision, he could not help but ponder as to how far he still had to walk before reaching the proper portion of the Desecrated Inheritance. Fortunately, after about twenty steps or so, the brown light surrounding him was gradually changed to reveal what seemed to be the interior of what was a cozy home. Well, to be honest, it was more urate to call it the interior of a luxury home focused on making sure that the person inside it was as rxed as possible.

    Taking a look at his new surroundings, Argentum was greeted with the sight of a few sofas circling around a stunningly crafted table made out of chiseled marble. These sofas were made with what seemed to be soft red fabric, whichplemented the hardwood floor of the area he was in. If one also took into consideration the cream white walls of the area, as well as the candlelit chandelier above the marble table, which gave off a dim yet soothing light, then one could definitely consider this as the ce where one would attend to guests.

    ¡°Definitely a weird hall whenpared to other inheritances,¡± Argentum muttered to himself as he made his way to one of the sofas, sitting down before letting out a sigh of relief. While doing so, he went through Aurus¡¯ memories regarding the trials of the Desecrated Inheritance, wanting to make sure that he was prepared for the trials. Of course, he still gave himself some leeway in case the trials changed. Although this world was based on ISE, he knew that not all would be based on it since this was a living, breathing world.

    After being certain that he had remembered all of the trials Aurus had gone through in the Desecrated Inheritance back then, he then took another look at his surroundings, noticing that a small doorway that shone with white light had appeared on one of the cream white walls. It was no surprise that this wall led to the start of the Desecrated Inheritance, given by the fact that the doorway seemed to radiate an aura that was beckoning Argentum to enter it.

    Although he wouldn¡¯t mind heading through it at this instant since he didn¡¯t need to prepare for anything, he still recalled the words mentioned by the disembodied voice before he left the Evernorth Desert. This thought soon made him ask himself, ¡°If I remember correctly, the voice said that I¡¯ve obtained a chance to select skills from the inheritance. Do I have to do something to allow me to use that chance?¡±

    Swish!

    Surprisingly, just as he was thinking about how he was going to use the chance he had earned, a small screen made out of Earth energy particles had appeared in front of his field of vision, slightly surprising Argentum in the process. Taking a look at the content written on the screen made of earth, he could not help but mutter with a hint of awe, ¡°For someone like Lord Calcifas to have the ability to make something like this, I presume he¡¯s pretty strong.¡±

    As he said, he wondered if the screen in front of him was driven by thoughts, prompting him to think about selecting a skill. It turned out that his hypothesis was indeed correct, with the content of the screen being hastily reced with multiple rectangles not long after. A few secondster, the insides of these rectangles were filled with texts, with the top portion of the rectangles havingrger texts.

    Just as he was about to choose a skill, Argentum noticed that there were a few lines of text at the top of the screen, prompting him to read it out as he murmured, ¡°Due to the inheritor achieving Prodigy grade, the inheritor has obtained ess to Prodigy grade skills.¡±

    ¡°What¡¯s the Prodigy grade?¡± he soon asked himself, hastily rummaging through Aurus¡¯ memories after that to find out what it was. Unfortunately for him, Aurus¡¯ memories did not have anything that tackled the Prodigy grade whatsoever, though it was not impossible for him to have his own thoughts on the matter, thinking that the Prodigy grade was a type of reward grade.

    ¡°If it is a reward grade, then I hope it¡¯s high up there,¡± he said with a light chuckle before sending out a thought to the screen that he only wanted to see Prodigy grade skills. It did not take long for the screen in front toply to his wishes, with the number of rectangles on the screen now being countable on two hands. With only a few skills to choose from, Argentum went ahead and read through the title and description of each and every skill, taking into consideration what he would possibly need for the future trials.

    ¡°No¡­not that¡­this one ain¡¯t it either¡­ah. Found the one that suits me for now.¡± With only less than 10 skills to choose from, it was no surprise that it only took a few minutes for Argentum to choose a skill from the list that felt like he needed. Without hesitation, he sent out a thought that he would like to learn the skill he had chosen from the list, to which the screenplied as it sent out an array of Earth energy particles towards his forehead. These particles were then absorbed by his body as a notification sound resounded in his mind not even an instant after.

    Ding!

    ¡®You have learned the active skill [Mountain Reformation Scripture]!¡¯

    ¡°Identify the skill I¡¯ve just obtained,¡± Argentum said not long after obtaining the notification, prompting a holographic screen to appear in front of the screen made of earth. Although he had already confirmed that he had obtained the skill he chose from the name alone, he wanted to make sure that its effects were as described, skimming through the skill¡¯s description.

    ________

    [Mountain Reformation Scripture]

    Grade: Mortal (C)

    An ultimate art that condenses the specialties of the Earth element into a single skill, it is an art that allows the user to bend the Earth element to their will, allowing them to use as a means of defense, or as a means of offense. When the user enlightens themselves through this skill, it wouldn¡¯t be far-fetched to say that they could wreak havoc through the Earth element alone.

    ________

    Nodding in satisfaction, Argentum then closed the screen he summoned as he sent a thought to the screen made of earth that he was now done looking through the screen. Interestingly, after that thought was sent out, the screen made out of earth transformed into dust that was dispersed all over the surroundings, only to dissipate into thin air soon after. Seeing this, Argentum could not help but mutter, ¡°Quite shy.¡±

    After that, he stood up from the sofa and made his way towards the bright doorway, recalling the information he hadmitted to memory as he took in a deep breath. Gazing into the doorway, as if he was seeing something else inside it, Argentum muttered, ¡°If Aurus¡¯ memories serve as a good guide, then the first trial given to me will be an endurance trial, prompting me to clear as many waves as possible.¡±

    ¡°Now that I think about it, I should have obtained some passive skills that increased my rate of mana recovery,¡± he could not help but say, only to shrug his shoulders soon after as he added, ¡°Oh, well. I still have arge pool of mana.¡±

    Whoosh!

    And with that, Argentum went ahead and stepped through the bright white doorway, his surroundings instantly being covered in white light. Just like before with the previous doorway, it took Argentum around twenty steps or so to arrive at a new area, with the white light surrounding him being gradually reced with the new area he was arriving in. Around half a minuteter, the white light surrounding him was now gone, being greeted by the sight of a wide yet empty hall.

    ¡°Seems like a good ce where an endurance trial could be held,¡± Argentum said as he assessed his surroundings, lightly nodding as he shifted his vision from time to time. After a minuteter, a disembodied voice resounded throughout the hall, its voice filled with solemnity. Nevertheless, from listening to the voice, Argentum knew that it was the same voice that spoke out to him back in the Evernorth Desert.

    ¡°Wee to your first trial, inheritor,¡± the disembodied voice said to Argentum. ¡°This first trial will test out one of the key characteristics Lord Calcifas checks on when taking in an inheritor. That is one¡¯s strength.¡±

    ¡°In this trial, you must fight against one of the beasts reared by Lord Calcifas himself. Once you defeat the beast you¡¯re up against, then it is considered that you have cleared the first trial, allowing you to head back to the previous room you were in,¡± it added.

    ¡°Wait a second¡­a beast?¡± Argentum could not help but ask, recalling how the first trial in Aurus¡¯ memories was that of endurance. Just as he was about to ask the disembodied voice why his first trial was rted to strength rather than endurance, he instead thought that the current scheme of things might be more beneficial to him in the long run, prompting him to change in mind.

    Going silent for a bit, he then asked the disembodied voice, ¡°Might I ask the strength of the beast I¡¯m fighting up against?¡±

    ¡°Due to your current strength, the inheritance has adjusted the strength of the beast to the Rank 3 Animate level,¡± the disembodied voice hastily replied before adding, ¡°Of course, since the inheritor has achieved Prodigy grade, it¡¯s highly likely that you¡¯d defeat it without a problem.¡±

    ¡°Rank 3 Animate¡­¡± Hearing the beast¡¯s strength, he could not help but suck in a bit of cold air. It was no problem for him to fight against Rank 1 and Rank 2 Animates since he had the ability to enhance his stats to outrageously high levels. Of course, it went without saying that he could fight against Rank 3 Animates as well, though at most, he felt like he could only fight them to a standstill.

    Nevertheless, he still had the confidence that he would be able to escape from the fight if push came to shove. With that in mind, he redirected his thoughts towards the second statement of the disembodied voice, which had something to do with the term ¡®Prodigy grade¡¯. At first, he thought that Prodigy grade referred to a grade of rewards he could obtain. But from what the disembodied voice was saying, it seemed that it did not only affect rewards, but the difficulty of the trials as well.

    With the thought lingering in his mind, he then asked the disembodied voice another question, saying, ¡°How many difficulty grades are there in the Desecrated Inheritance?¡±

    Surprisingly, the disembodied voice replied, saying, ¡°There are a total of 9 difficulty grades in the Desecrated Inheritance. The Prodigy grade is considered as the 6th difficulty grade, with 5 grades being lower than it. From lowest to highest, these 5 lower grades are Commoner, Adept, Elite, Expert, and Genius.¡±

    ¡°Unfortunately, I cannot tell you what thest three grades are, but for someone like you with high potential, it¡¯s not impossible for the difficulty grade of your trials to increase,¡± the disembodied voice soon added, making Argentum inwardly let out a long sigh as he felt that these difficulty grades he had just learned of would be troublesome in the long run.

    Nevertheless, since difficulty and rewards go hand-in-hand, he knew that he had to do his best in order for the difficulty grade of his trials to increase. Astonishingly, this thought was enough for him to be eager to start the first trial. Without dy, he said to the disembodied voice, ¡°I would like to start the first trial.¡±

    ¡°Alright, then,¡± the disembodied voice replied. In less than an instant, the atmosphere inside the hall Argentum was in had changed, giving off the feeling that a tyrant ruled over it. As the feeling became more and more intense, the disembodied voice said to him, ¡°The first trial is now starting.¡±

    Hisssssssss!!!

    Coincidentally, at the very moment the disembodied voice was finished speaking, a loud hissing sound resounded throughout the hall, sending wave after wave of pressure towards Argentum. At this point, Argentum knew that he had to get serious, utilizing his enhanced senses to the maximum to gauge the power of the opponent he was up against. While doing so, he cast all of the buffs he had in his arsenal, gradually increasing his stats to the same level as his opponent¡¯s.

    Taking on a battle stance, Argentum looked at the opposite side of the hall, wanting to know who he was up against since the hissing sound originated from there. Fortunately, it did not take long for his opponent to reveal itself, showing a gigantic snake covered in scales that seemed to be made from hardened rocks. On top of that, if one looked at its head, one could see a makeshift crown made out of the same scales, making the snake give off the feeling that it was some sort of king.

    From what he was feeling from the gigantic snake alone, he knew that it was going to be a close fight. Without hesitation, he taunted the snake toe at him as he shouted, ¡°Come at me, you flimsy earth noodle!¡±

    ¡°Hiss!¡± Although therge snake was not capable ofprehending or using human speech, from the tone Argentum took, it knew that he was taunting him, prompting it to slither towards Argentum at high speeds as a massive amount of Earth energy particles started coalescing around its body.

    ¡°The first trial has officially begun.¡± While the two were about to make their first moves on each other, the disembodied voice resounded throughout the area.

    ¡°The inheritor¡¯s opponent in this trial is¡­¡±

    ¡°The Rank 3 Mountain Serpent King.¡±

 Chapter 323: New Type of Attack

    Chapter 323: New Type of Attack

    While the disembodied voice had announced the official start of Argentum¡¯s first trial, Argentum, on the other hand, was waiting for the snake to make its move, circting all of the energy inside his body in preparation for his counterattack. Fortunately, with the taunting he had done earlier, it seemed that the Mountain Serpent King was adamant on showing Argentum who¡¯s boss.

    Hiss!

    As if therge snake had legs beneath its underbelly, it madly slithered towards Argentum with arge amount of Earth energy particles surrounding it. It did not take long for the snake to arrive where it wanted to go, stopping at the exact moment there was only a few meters of space between the two. While in the process of stopping, it manipted all of the Earth energy particles to absorb the momentum it had umted and used that to shoot arge barrage of condensed Earth towards Argentum.

    Fwoosh! Swoosh! Psh!

    Seeing this, Argentum could not help but snicker a bit as his enhanced senses could feel the trajectory of each condensed piece of Earth that was heading towards his way. Stimting all of the strength inside his body in tandem with the buffs he had applied, he dodged all of the attacks in a swift yet graceful manner, with the wall behind him bing the victim of the attacks instead.

    After dodging all of the condensed Earth therge snake threw at him, he then went back to his original position before deciding to taunt the snake once more as he shouted with a hint of arrogance, ¡°For a beast named the Mountain Serpent King, don¡¯t you think it¡¯s shameful that someone weaker than you has dodged all of your attacks?¡±

    ¡°Hiss!¡± In response, therge snake became more infuriated as a massive amount of Earth energy particles coalesced around its body one more time. This time around, it manipted all of these particles to mold itself into sharp spikesrge enough for a sizable hole to be opened on Argentum¡¯s body if at least one hit. At this moment, Argentum finally felt that the snake was bing serious,ing to the conclusion that there was no point in taunting it further.

    While the snake was charging up its next attack, Argentum focused his attention towards the disembodied voice that announced the start of their fight and asked, ¡°Since the Desecrated Inheritance is an Earth-based inheritance, I¡¯m only limited to using attacks of the Earth element, right?¡±

    Surprisingly, the disembodied voice replied to his question not even an instant after he had finished, disagreeing with his words as it said, ¡°You are not limited to the Earth element at all. As mentioned earlier, the thing that the first trial tests from the inheritor is strength. Naturally, being proficient in other elements is also considered your own strength. If you were limited to only the Earth element, then all of the elemental buffs on your body would have been forcefully dispelled at the very instant you tried casting them.¡±

    ¡°Is that so?¡± Argentum said, thinking that the disembodied voice¡¯s words did make a lot of sense. With the disembodied voice¡¯s words lingering in his mind, he could not help but let out a light chuckle as he pondered on what element would be the best attack against something like the Mountain Serpent King. Of course, thetter wasn¡¯t going to give him time to think, proceeding with its attack as it slithered closer to Argentum with multiple spikes in tow.

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    In less than an instant, therge snake had arrived to where Argentum was, using its body to keep him in ce as spikes started to circle around him in a slightly terrifying formation. Seeing this, Argentum decided to allocate arge portion of his attention towards the spikes while the remaining portion would continue thinking up of a counterattack. Without waiting for the spikes toe firing at him, he stimted all of the buffs applied on his body before dashing farther away from therge snake.

    It came without saying that the Mountain Serpent King wouldn¡¯t let Argentum have his way, firing one spike after the other at him as more and more spikes were made on the spot. Fortunately, thanks to all of the buffs on his body, Argentum was slightly ahead of the spikes in terms of speed, with his position always being a couple meters away from where the spikes wouldnd, giving him a bit of leeway in terms of maneuverability.

    Eventually, after running away from the spikes for a while, Argentum abruptly made a sharp turn towards the snake, making thetter joyous as it then focused its spikes in front of him. Unfortunately for the enraged snake, it seemed that its prey would know when the spike wouldnd, always jumping at the veryst moment it could. This, in turn, just made the Mountain Serpent King more enraged than ever before.

    When did someone like the Mountain Serpent King be unable to defeat such a weakling, it thought to itself. With that in mind, it became more aggressive in its attacks without thinking about defenses, sending two spikes instead of one after some time. Not long after, this turned into three¡­then four¡­then five¡­until after some more time passed, arge array of spikes were heading towards Argentum.

    Of course, Argentum wasn¡¯t going to let the snake¡¯s attacksnd on him. Thinking that it was going to be difficult to escape therge array of earth spikes, he unhesitatingly raised his left hand before channeling a lot of energy towards it as a light green haze enveloped his raised hand. Soon after, this light green haze transformed into a monstrous gust of wind that headed towards the spikes as he shouted, ¡°[Higher Zephyr Magic]!¡±

    ¡°[Tempest Pulse]!¡±

    Fwoosh!

    In an instant, almost all of the spikes that therge snake fired in order to impale Argentum had instead turned the hall¡¯s ceiling into swiss cheese, with the remaining few that weren¡¯t blown away by Argentum¡¯s skill impaling the ground instead. Unsurprisingly, seeing that the entity it considered as a weakling that overestimated itself do something like that, the Mountain Serpent King was left at an impasse, not knowing what to do next.

    Unfortunately for the Mountain Serpent King, it was at this moment that Argentum thought that it was the right time to attack, recasting all of the buffs he had applied on his body in order for a greater boost in speed as he arrived in front of therge snake in a sh. Then again, as a Rank 3 Animate, the Mountain Serpent King had incredibly powerful instincts, regaining its senses as it noticed a change in its field of vision.

    Noticing that the weakling it considered as prey was already in front of it, it went ahead and summoned arge mass of Earth energy particles as it hastily slithered backwards, forming a wall between the two after it realized the power behind Argentum¡¯s skill. In response, Argentum lightly chuckled as he extended both of his hands towards the wall as he channeled a great portion of his energy towards both of it as a darker green haze appeared on its surface.

    Unexpectedly, with Argentum¡¯sst second move, the wall that was supposed to separate the snake from Argentum had instead allowed his arms to pass through, forming around it. This, in turn, allowed Argentum to continue with the preparation of his attack as he used a bit of the energy coalescing around his hands to destroy the wall in front of his field of vision.

    Crack!

    Although the Wind element was not the true counter for the Earth element, it was still an element that was renowned for wreaking havoc alongside the Fire element. It did not take long for the wall hastily made by the Mountain Serpent King to crumble from that small bit of energy while Argentum¡¯s actual attack was finally ready. Taking a look at the Mountain Serpent King, who had made a few thick shields of earth around its front to protect from his attack, Argentum could not help but let out a malevolent chuckle as he muttered to himself, ¡°I should really read the Tome of the Four Elements some more. To think that there was a solution to the problem I had with the Wind element beingcking in terms of destruction.¡±

    Fwoosh!

    At the very instant he was finished saying those words, the dark green energy surrounding both of his hands were then shot towards the Mountain Serpent King, hastily transforming into two dragons that circled around each other as the power behind each of the dragons increased. Now knowing how much power Argentum actually had, therge snake knew that the attack he sent had a lot of force, prompting it to conjure more earth shields around it.

    ¡°Unfortunately, conjuring more shields wouldn¡¯t be enough for this attack,¡± Argentum muttered as he looked at the Mountain Serpent King¡¯s hasty move as two balls of fiery red energy were soon conjured on both of his hands before throwing it towards the dragons made out of wind at high speeds.

    Swoosh!

    Just before the wind dragons could collide with the earth shields, the two fiery red balls had arrived where the two dragons were, with the wind dragons seemingly engulfing both of them at the same time. Not long after, a massive change had undergone to these two dragons, with the Wind element making up the dragons¡¯ bodies now being reced by the Fire element. Soon after, the Fire element was then reced by the Wind element, with the cycle continuing as the dragons gradually swelled in size.

    Bang!

    Eventually, the constant exchanging of both elements had stopped, with the dragons swelling up to a size around three times the original. Unexpectedly, one of the two dragons had taken on the Fire element, while the other dragon had taken on the Wind element.

    Fwoosh!

    At the very moment the two dragons had collided with the firstyer of earth shields, all of them were blown away from the sheer amount of force contained inside the two dragons as a great portion of the hall had now transformed into a fiery wastnd. With such an oue, it wasn¡¯t surprising for the remaining earth shields to be destroyed. Of course, with the earth shields destroyed, then it went without saying that the Mountain Serpent King had been affected by the attack as well.

    Thud!

    Not long after the two dragons had transformed into a fiery inferno, a loud thud could be heard from the side of the snake as the hall shook quite violently for a bit. Seeing the effects of his new attack firsthand, Argentum could not help but shudder as he muttered, ¡°Wind and Fire devouring one another in a cyclical manner. If these two elements alone already have such an effect on what would normally be a somewhat weak attack, what if I add the Water element to it? What if I add the Earth element on top of that? What if I unlock Lesser Origin?¡±

    As he got to this point, he was instantly motivated to increase his understanding of the Wind and Fire element to the True Element level as well.

    ¡°Ah, right. Almost forgot to mention.¡±

    ¡°[Zephyr Ignis Ouroboros Magic]!¡±

    ¡°[Draconic Tempest Inferno]!¡±

    Fwoosh!

    The fiery inferno brought about by the two dragons hadsted for quite some time, with the mes only starting to dissipate after about half a minute or so. At that point, Argentum now had a decent view of the other side of the hall, speechless as his sense of vision fixated towards a certain region of the hall.

    On one of the walls, arge hole in the shape of the serpent could be seen. Not only that, but this hole was at the very least a few decimeters deep, bing the living proof of how powerful Argentum¡¯s new attack was. Just as Argentum was wondering where the snake he was fighting had gone, a faint hiss could be heard from the deep hole as the silhouette of the Mountain Serpent King gradually appeared.

    From the looks of it, the Mountain Serpent King seemed to have been grievously wounded by the attack, even with all of the earth shields protecting him. Noticing this, Argentum did not hesitate to prepare another round of the attack wanting to settle it once and for all. Unfortunately, the Mountain Serpent King was one step ahead of him, letting out a loud hiss, which gradually turned into a roar as a mass of Earth energy particles far beyond what it had summoned at first, was now coalescing around its body, healing up all of the injuries the Mountain Serpent King had rued.

    But it did not stop there.

    After the injuries were healed, the scales on its body were then reshaped by the excess Earth energy particles to make its body more streamlined while the crown on its head had be more pointy than ever before, even exuding the intent normally found in a weapon. Soon after, a faint red energy not normally found in Earth energy particles soon surrounded the Mountain Serpent King, even making Argentum feel like it had gotten a bit hot inside the hall.

    Naturally, Argentum thought that the Mountain Serpent King was just using one of its skills as ast ditch effort tond a hit on him, even though it was actually severely injured inside. With that in mind, he continued to prepare the previous attack he had used, only to stop as therge snake had disappeared from his field of vision.

    In an instant, he hastily shifted his sense of vision in various ces to find out where therge snake had gone. Fortunately, his sense of hearing was able to hear the sound of a faint hiss behind him, prompting him to recast all of his buffs as he dashed forward.

    Bang!

    As for where he was previously standing, a loud explosion sound had resounded, revealing a beast that did not look like the Mountain Serpent King. At this moment, its body was covered in dark scales while viscous red fluid flowed through the seams between the scales. Looking at this, Argentum finally came to his senses, knowing that the snake wasn¡¯t making ast ditch effort at all, but rather, it was now bing more serious than ever before.

    As if the inheritance was reading his mind, the disembodied voice soon resounded throughout the hall, informing Argentum of what was happening.

    ¡°The Mountain Serpent King has now evolved into the Rank 4 Volcanic Serpent Monarch.¡±

    ¡°At this moment, it has entered its berserk mode.¡±

    In response, Argentum could only say¡­

    ¡°¡­¡±

    ¡°¡­¡±

    ¡°It fucking evolved from my attack?¡±

 Chapter 324: An Unsatisfying Victory

    Chapter 324: An Unsatisfying Victory

    ¡°Now how the heck did that happe¡ª?!¡± Just before Argentum could finish his question while he was still in awe as to what was happening, the now Volcanic Serpent Monarch hastily slithered to where he was, changing its mode of attack from throwing stuff made out of earth¡­to shooting beams of energy from the pointy tip on its head.

    Whoosh!

    Without any hint that it was going to attack whatsoever, a beam of red and brown light that intertwined around one another was shot towards Argentum, who was currently running farther away from the snake as of this moment. Thanks to his enhanced senses, he was able to notice that therge snake was attacking in the same style as before, though it was now more effective due to it evolving to the next grade. Since the buffs he had cast on his body were all of the buffs he had in his arsenal, he went ahead and hastily redirected part of his attention towards a certain portion of his upper torso, the gap where the Tome of the Four Elements lied.

    Not long after, he conjured tendrils inside this gap and used it to skim through the pages of the tome to the part where it talked about the fusion of the Wind and Fire element. Fortunately, the tome tackled the part that he crucially needed to get more leeway, hastilymanding his tendrils to absorb all of the information inside that part as he tried to make sure that he wasn¡¯t letting panic consume him.

    Although it only took around 10 seconds or so for the information to be absorbed and processed in his mind, these 10 seconds felt like minutes since the snake continued to shoot the beam at Argentum. It was unlike before where there was a moment of respite between each throw of a spike. Trusting in his abilities in manipting energy, he went ahead and moved all of the buffs on his body that were of the Wind and Fire element towards his head. Not long after, he infused more energy towards these buffs to allow them to form bridges that connected each other, letting one buff boost the other, while the same happened in reverse.

    At first, the bridge he created took a second, but it did not take long for him to be more proficient at it, forming hundreds bridges that connected the buffs together within the two seconds that spanned after that. Two more seconds pass by, and there were now thousands of bridges that connected the buffs together, allowing the exchanging of energy between the buffs to happen more frequently.

    Fwoosh!

    Coincidentally, it was at this moment that the beam following behind Argentum was now only a few decimeters away from hitting him. Of course, seeing this had made the snake happy since it was now getting to see the downfall of the being it once considered a weakling. Unexpectedly, before that could happen, it seemed that the being it oh so wanted to kill at this moment had gained wings, increasing the gap between the beam and itself to the point where the beam now had a hard time catching up.

    ¡°[Zephyr Ignis Ouroboros Magic: Symbiotic Resonance]!¡±

    And just like that, the problem of Argentum beingcking in the area of stats had been alleviated to a certain extent, allowing more of his logical and rational side to gain control while his panic slowly died down. Nevertheless, he knew that only his strength and speed had boosted to around the same level as the Volcanic Serpent Monarch. If he allowed one of the snake¡¯s attacks to hit him, then he would surely be out ofmission.

    Then again, with him being able to dodge therge snake¡¯s attacks without a problem once more, he was now able to ask the disembodied voice yet again as he asked it, ¡°How the heck did my opponent evolve to the next rank all of a sudden?¡±

    ¡°Although it seemed to be due to sheer luck, in fact, the Mountain Serpent King was already on the verge of evolving in the first ce,¡± the disembodied voice hastily replied as Argentum continued to run from the beam from time to time. Not only that, but the Volcanic Serpent Monarch decided to shoot more beams of energy towards Argentum, making it harder for Argentum to dodge. Of course, in reality, Argentum just thought of the additional beams as a slightly bigger nuisance.

    ¡°This Mountain Serpent King had been the ruler of a territory filled with snakes in the inheritance¡¯s makeshift wilderness, which meant that it had already reached the peak of power for quite a long time. Who knew that the catalyst it needed to evolve to the next rank was your attack?¡± the disembodied voice continued, prompting Argentum to ask, ¡°Will the inheritance repay me for this blunder?¡±

    ¡°Of course, it will,¡± the disembodied voice replied as Argentum went ahead and sent out an attack imbued with the Wind and Fire element to distract the snake for a bit. ¡°Even if you lose against your opponent in its current form, the inheritance will still consider you to have passed the first trial.¡±

    ¡°Lose?¡± Argentum could not help but repeat the word, instantly thinking why the disembodied voice would think that way. From its perspective, it seemed like he was at his wits¡¯ end, with therge boost in speed only being due to a suddenprehension of some sort. In reality, he felt like he just needed a bit more time to find a way to defeat the Volcanic Serpent Monarch, knowing that the Tome of the Four Elements he had would definitely have a technique or two for something like this.

    But just as he was about to skim through the tome once again, his thoughts shifted towards the name of the beast he was up against.

    ¡°Volcanic Serpent Monarch¡­¡± Argentum muttered to himself, not taking long for him to find a way to defeat thesnake that was seemingly revived after being beaten close to death. With a deep breath, he stopped in his tracks, allowing the Volcanic Serpent Monarch to drop its defenses as it became joyous that it would now be able to kill him once and for all.

    Naturally, that meant that the beams it fired towards Argentum were now converging towards where he was, the power in a single beam enough to vaporize him out of existence. In contrast, he let out a light sigh as a cyan haze appeared on both of his hands as he said, ¡°Now that I think about it, this skill is definitely fraudulent. In any case, it¡¯s definitely better than losing.¡±

    While waiting for the cyan haze around his hands to thicken, he kept his eyes on the beams that were heading towards his way, as well as the position and possible emotion of the snake he was up against. By the time the beams were only about a meter away from him, he utilized the entirety of his buffs to speed up his descent to the ground as he mmed both of his hands on the ground as he shouted, ¡°[Niflheim Horizon]!¡±

    Swoosh!

    As if it was a deadly virus, ayer of cyan-colored ice had appeared around Argentum before spreading towards the Volcanic Serpent Monarch at breakneck speeds, catching therge snake off guard. Before therge snake could put up its defenses, the cyan-colored ice had already covered its surroundings, reducing the snake¡¯s defenses to an incredibly low level as a faintyer of ice covered its body. In fact, if one looked at the snake closely, the viscous red fluid flowing between the seams of its scales had now solidified into a maroon-colored rock.

    At this moment, the Volcanic Serpent Monarch could not move its body anymore, though it could still move its eyes to look at what its prey was about to do to it. Surprisingly, as it watched the opponent it was up against gradually getting closer to it, it felt like its opponent did not want to do something like this, but had to since it was up against someone as strong like the Volcanic Serpent Monarch.

    After evolving to the next rank, the Volcanic Serpent Monarch could now sense more than ever before, finally getting an idea of what was about to happen to it. Although it could escape, it felt like its end would still be inevitable, so instead of bing angry at the one it thought as a weakling, it had epted its fate as it now considered the weakling as someone superior than it¡­

    Though in reality, it still continued to squirm around in its encasing, wanting to achieve greater power in the future. Of course, Argentum wouldn¡¯t let that happen as he looked at therge snake and sighed. He then raised his hand as multiple motes of cyan light appeared near the ceiling of the hall. If one counted the number of motes, then it woulde to a total of 81.

    ¡°Well, I guess you can consider it your luck that you¡¯re going to die under this move,¡± Argentum said before letting out a disappointed sigh. ¡°But to be honest, I really don¡¯t want to do this. This victory feels so unsatisfying. Anyways¡­¡±

    Whoosh!

    ¡°[Eighty-One Meteors of Frozen Grandeur]!¡±

    Bang! Bang! Bang!

    In less than an instant, the 81 motes of cyan light had expanded intorge meteors of ice, crashing against the snake¡¯s body encased in ice as loud explosion sounds reverberated throughout the hall one after the other. Eventually, the explosions stopped, revealing the aftermath of the skill Argentum had cast.

    It went without saying that the snake¡¯s existence was nowhere to be seen at this point. Well, if one looked closely, then tiny ice shards that contained the bits and pieces making up the Volcanic Serpent Monarch could be seen scattered throughout the hall amidstrger ice shards. Other than that, the current sight was akin to an icy wastnd, the exact opposite of what the hall looked like before.

    With a long sigh, Argentum deactivated [Niflheim Horizon], removing theyer of cyan-colored ice on the ground as he could not help but say, ¡°If I were up against a Rank 5 Animate, then I might have thought that using something like that would have been satisfying. Nevertheless, the true power of [Sage¡¯s Water Magic] is incredibly terrifying.¡±

    ¡°No, wait. It¡¯s better to say that achieving the True Element level of affinity on an element is the terrifying one,¡± Argentum continued, his previously rekindled me to achieve the True Element level of affinity for the other elements now rekindled once more. Although he wanted to do just that, he knew that he was not in the right ce at the moment, cing the thought at the back of his head as he waited for the disembodied voice to announce the end of the first trial.

    Fortunately, it did not take long for the disembodied voice to do so. In fact, a hint of disbelief could be heard from its voice as its voice reverberated throughout the hall, ¡°T-the inheritor has defeated the Rank 4 Volcanic Serpent Monarch¡­signaling the sessful end of the first trial¡­¡±

    ¡°Due to unforeseen circumstances, the inheritance has decided to bestow the inheritor a chance to obtain skills or items within the inheritance on or under the Prodigy grade,¡± it continued, only to say soon after, ¡°No, wait. Scratch that. The inheritance has decided to increase the inheritor¡¯s grade to Chaos Prodigy grade, the grade after Prodigy. With that, the inheritance has decided to bestow the inheritor a chance to obtain skills or items within the inheritance on or under the Chaos Prodigy grade.¡±

    ¡°Chaos Prodigy grade, huh,¡± Argentum muttered to himself, excited to see what he could obtain with a heightened grade. Then again, he was also nervous of what would happen in the subsequent trials now that his grade had been upgraded to another level. Nevertheless, he knew that there was no point thinking about the future right now, prompting him to head towards the doorway that had just opened, allowing him to head back to the seeminglyvish room he was in before.

    On the other hand, the disembodied voice was left on its own in the hall, resounded throughout the hall for a bit as it muttered, ¡°A being that¡¯s well-versed in the four elements, has a superb level ofprehension skills, and is a Pseudo-Animate on top of that? Only one being fits that criteria.¡±

    Soon after, it let out a light yet mischievous giggle as it continued, ¡°Hehehe¡­to think that he would enter my inheritance.¡±

    ¡°Eleanor¡­¡±

    ¡°It seems we¡¯re truly fated to meet.¡±

    ¡°I wonder what kind of expression you¡¯d have when you see me again?¡±

 Chapter 325: The Fifth Member

    Chapter 325: The Fifth Member

    XXXX Continent, Duvir Province, within the Astelia family household.

    After the Ninth Prince left Dane and Griselle off to themselves, allowing the two of them to do whatever they needed alone, he went ahead and headed to the entrance of the household, lightly knocking on the door as he knew that it was already nighttime. Nevertheless, even though it was alreadyte at night, one of the household¡¯s servants opened the door, only to be given the shock of his life after she came face-to-face with the Ninth Prince.

    Apologizing that he was requesting something after it was alreadyte at night, he then went ahead and told the servant that opened the door if it was possible for him to rest in one of their guest rooms for the night. Of course, the servant responded to that request by asking as to where Dane went. Surprisingly, she was one of the people who saw how their Lady Griselle banished the two of them away from the household.

    In response, Vanadir lightly giggled as he told the servant that it was a secret. Although the servant wondered as to why the Ninth Prince wanted to keep something like that a secret, she still went ahead and asked the others if it was possible for the Ninth Prince to sleep in their household for the night, to which the others hastily responded by leading him to the mostvish guest room they had in their household.

    Naturally, it was a shock to everyone in the household that the Ninth Prince, who they thought had already gone back to the pce a few hours ago, had requested to sleep inside one of their guest rooms. Of course, it was an absurd request, but the fact that one of the royal princes of the Seraph Kingdom opted to sleep inside their household rather than head somewhere else was a great honor to them.

    Nevertheless, it was a given that Vanadir wouldn¡¯t be interested in any that, only letting out a chuckle as he requested a cup of tea from one of the servants the household allocated to him while he was staying in the household for the night. After taking a sip from the cup of tea he had received, he then looked out of the window to gaze at the night sky as he could hear faint grunts and moansing from some ce. Hearing this, he could not help but let out yet another chuckle as he wondered to himself, ¡°I wonder how long their tussle wouldst?¡±

    With that in mind, he went to sleep, only waking up once the sun was already at the peak of the sky. Letting out a yawn after taking one of the better sleeps he had these past few days, he got out of his bed and did some light stretching before asking one of the servants that attended to him if it was possible for him to get something to eat. Naturally, the servants of the household went above and beyond since it was a request from one of the royal princes. It did not take long for Vanadir¡¯s request to be aplished, though instead of a basic meal, he was instead given a fancy five meal course that was definitely fit for a king.

    Letting out a light sigh in response to what was given to him, he ate all of the meals given to him since to him, it was a waste if he left food. Deciding to do a bit of strenuous exercise before checking on the two, he then gave the empty tes to the servants before doing some basic swordsmanship moves. After feeling that he had burned off most of the calories he ate, he then headed to where Dane and Griselle were, this time through the corridors inside the household.

    Knock. Knock. Knock.

    Knocking on the door leading to Griselle¡¯s room, Vanadir waited for either one of the two to respond, only to hear a muffled cacophonying from the other side. After some time, this noise quieted down as the voice of a woman resounded from the room, asking him in a slightly panicked tone, ¡°Who is it?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s me, Vanadir,¡± Vanadir replied with a light smile on his face as a light sigh could be heard from the other side. A few secondster, he then heard the woman¡¯s voice telling him toe in, prompting him to subconsciously nod as he opened the door. Of course, he closed the door behind him soon after, knowing what had happened during the previous night.

    ¡°I knew something would happen between the two of you, but I wasn¡¯t expecting the two of you to go this far,¡± Vanadir could not help but mutter as he looked at the current state of Griselle¡¯s room. At the moment, multiple scratches and stains could be seen scattered throughout the four walls confining the room, while at the center, two peopleid on the bed with a stained nket on top of their bodies.

    The first person was naturally Griselle, who had responded to Vanadir¡¯s knocking a while ago since this was her room. Right now, her face was slightly red as she listened to Vanadir¡¯s words. With an awkward chuckle, she replied, ¡°It was the heat of the moment¡­yeah¡­that¡¯s it¡­definitely the heat of the moment¡­¡±

    ¡°Well, I¡¯m not ming you for having your way with him since I did tell you to do whatever you wanted, but you could¡¯ve at least given him some breathing room, no?¡± Vanadir could not help but say as he looked at the second person beside Griselle¡­or at least, what seemed to be a person. If it were not for the fact Vanadir knew who the second person was, he would instantly think that this person was siphoned to near death, with only the faint movement of his chest being the sign that he was still alive. Although incredibly emaciated at this moment, the second person was, in fact, Dane.

    ¡°Urghhh¡­¡± Dane tried to say something to Vanadir, but only faint moans came out of his mouth, prompting him to hastily move one of his hands to conjure a rift. Naturally, this rift was open to drop down a mana stone on one of his hands, which he hastily absorbed from like a man that had gone without water for days. After a few seconds, he regained a bit of hisplexion, as well as his energy as he looked at the Ninth Prince and slowly said, ¡°Your Highness¡­at the very least¡­you should tell me¡­you were nning to do¡­something¡­like this¡­¡±

    ¡°I won¡¯t hide anything from you if it involves your life. Of course, I thought Griselle here would stop after some time,¡± Vanadir responded to Dane¡¯s words before looking at Griselle, prompting the red on her face to intensify. He then continued with a chuckle, ¡°But it seems I¡¯ve highly miscalcted. Who knew the Great Fortress would have such a ravenous appetite?¡±

    ¡°In any case, now that I¡¯ve held up my part of the deal, it¡¯s time for you to fulfill yours,¡± he said not long after, to which Griselle timidly replied, ¡°Well, yeah¡­but¡­¡±

    ¡°Could you at least let me wear clothes first?¡± she hastily added soon after, to which Vanadir replied with a chortle as he used his mana to bring the gradually recovering Dane away with him. Of course, he made sure to cover Dane¡¯s naked body with a robe made out of his energy.

    By the time the two of them got out of her room, Dane had already recovered enough energy to move on his own, creating a rift that enveloped his whole body. At the exact moment he was put down on his two feet by Vanadir, he was already wearing his usual attire, robe and all that. For a while, silence ensued between the two of them, but this was soon broken by Vanadir as he felt a little bit guilty for having Dane do something like that.

    With a light sigh, he looked at Dane beside him and said, ¡°Alright, I apologize for letting you go through something like that¡­again? Wait a second, did you also do it with Valentia?¡±

    ¡°Yes, Your Highness,¡± Dane lightly nodded as a faint blush suffused from his face, recalling what had happened to him with Valentia. Hearing that, Vanadir said, ¡°From now on, I¡¯ll tell you if you have to do something like that.¡±

    Soon after, a grin appeared on his face as he nudged him by the shoulder, telling him, ¡°But tell me the truth. Don¡¯t you enjoy doing that?¡±

    ¡°Well, indeed, I do, but¡­¡± Dane said in response as the blush on his face slightly intensified, only to disappear soon after as a light sigh came out of his mouth as he continued, ¡°To be honest, I¡¯d rather not have this skill at all.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re telling me you weren¡¯t well-versed in this area in the first ce?¡± Vanadir asked before adding, ¡°Although that skill of yours isn¡¯t the reason why I chose you as my royal advisor, it still gave me an edge when it came to recruiting well¡­you know¡­women.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll put the me on my master for that, Your Highness,¡± Dane replied as he let out another sigh. He then continued, ¡°I studied under him because he was a prodigy in almost all fields that involved the arcane, but who knew he¡¯d ce his unfulfilled desires on me?¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s harsh,¡± Vanadir could not help but say as he recalled Dane talking about his master in the past. cing his hand on one of Dane¡¯s shoulders, he then asked him, ¡°If I remember correctly, his name is Dalton, right?¡±

    ¡°Yes, Your Highness.¡± Dane nodded as he continued, ¡°It¡¯s kind of weird that he doesn¡¯t want others to know about hisst name¡­given the fact that he had built an institute for magic under his name.¡±

    ¡°Think of it as him being quirky,¡± Vanadir let out a chuckle as he soon asked him, ¡°Anyways, do you think if you could ask him if I could grab some of his students from the magic institute? In exchange, I¡¯ll definitely repay him once I win the war for the throne.¡±

    ¡°Well, I¡¯ll try my best to persuade him, Your Highness,¡± Dane replied sinctly as the door to Griselle¡¯s room was opened, revealing a well-dressed Griselle, a stark contrast to what she looked like quite some time ago. Lightly coughing, she went ahead and looked at Vanadir and asked, ¡°So, my part of the deal is for me to join your team, right?¡±

    ¡°Indeed, Lady Griselle,¡± Vanadir lightly smiled, taking on a polite tone. In response, Griselle lightly nodded before shifting her vision towards Dane beside him. Not long after, a light blush suffused from her face as she sent a strand of energy to Vanadir, initiating a private connection between the two of them.

    ¡°You do know I would have epted your request even if you didn¡¯t do something like this, right?¡± she said through their connection before adding, ¡°Back then in our younger years, you helped me out on multiple things, so it makes sense for me that I should repay for it.¡±

    ¡°Is that so? If that was the case, then why did you shoo the two of us away?¡± Vanadir could not help but ask after listening to Griselle¡¯s words. In response, Griselle let out an awkward chuckle as she replied, ¡°I wasn¡¯t expecting the two of you toe at that time, plus it would be better if we did something like that in the morning, so I shooed you two away.¡±

    ¡°Also¡­¡± At this point, the blush on her face became redder as she continued, ¡°I¡¯m on that time of the month, so apologies foring off as a bit rude yesterday.¡±

    ¡°But did you really have to show my true colors to your royal advisor?¡± As Griselle said this, she could not help but recall what had happenedst night which sparked the whole tussling between Dane and her. In response, Vanadir lightly chuckled as he replied, ¡°Well, sooner orter, he¡¯ll still find out since you two will be on the same team.¡±

    ¡°Man, sometimes I don¡¯t know if I should hate you or thank you,¡± Griselle said, elicting a light giggle from Vanadir as the connection between the two of them were cut. Noticing this, Dane went ahead and asked the Ninth Prince, ¡°So, what did Your Highness and Lady Griselle talk about?¡±

    ¡°We talked about some conditions for her to join the team,¡± Vanadir said in response, taking note of the react Griselle had when she had just opened the door a while ago. Scratching her head as she let out a light sigh, she went along with Vanadir¡¯s words as she silently thanked him. Soon after, she then said in the most solemn tone she could muster, ¡°Indeed. I will only join the team on the condition that I can have some¡­free time¡­with this¡­fine gentleman¡­right here¡­¡±

    At first, her words were indeed solemn, but as time went on, it then turned timid, and eventually, hard to listen. Fortunately, all of them were at a decently high ss at their age, allowing him to hear her final words. Dane could not help but lightly blush in response to her words, wondering if it was the right thing for him to do. As for Vanadir, he lightly chuckled as he looked at Dane and asked, ¡°Are you willing to help Lady Griselle fulfill her conditions?¡±

    Feeling that he had no choice in the long run, Dane let out a long sigh of defeat as he lightly nodded. Seeing him nod, Griselle could not help but feel ecstatic inside as she knew that she would now have the time of her life every once in a while. Vanadir, on the other hand, was d that Griselle had joined their team as he said, ¡°With the Great Fortress now a part of our team, we now have a solid core.¡±

    ¡°For now, let us head back to my pavilion.¡±

 Chapter 326: Testing Ones Wits

    Chapter 326: Testing One¡¯s Wits

    Swoosh!

    Walking through the doorway that had appeared after the end of the first trial, Argentum was finally back to the hall he was previously in, sitting on one of the sofas once more as he soon hastily called for the disembodied voice, ¡°Are you there, guide?¡±

    ¡°What is it, inheritor?¡± Surprisingly, the disembodied voice did not take long to respond to his question. Hearing the disembodied voice respond to him, Argentum went ahead and rified what he had heard from a while ago, asking, ¡°If I remember correctly, you told me that I could obtain any skill or item from the inheritance, as long as it¡¯s on or under the Prodigy grade, right?¡±

    ¡°Well, due to the feat you¡¯ve done in the first trial, I¡¯ve increased your grade to Chaos Prodigy, if you could recall. Other than that, the inheritor is correct. The inheritor has a chance to obtain any skill or item from the inheritance, as long as it¡¯s on or under your current grade,¡± the disembodied voice replied.

    Now that he had rified his doubts, Argentum went ahead and used his thoughts to summon the screen made of earth from before, allowing him to look at the list of skills the inheritance had once more. Of course, this time, he added the message that he only wanted to look at skills at the Chaos Prodigy grade, which the screen hastily processed.

    Whoosh!

    It did not take long for the screen made of earth to show the oue of Argentum¡¯s thoughts, only showing about three or so rectangles on the screen, unlike before where the number of rectangles could be counted on two hands. Since he recalled that the disembodied voice said that the Chaos Prodigy grade was one grade higher than the Prodigy grade, he was somewhat eager to see the effects of the skills he could obtain at his new grade. Unfortunately for him,pared to the skill he had obtained from the inheritance before engaging in the first trial, the current selection of skills in front of him were only around 10% better at most.

    Of course, to others, they would not pass up the chance of obtaining a better skill even if the improvement is only by a few percent, but to Argentum who had ess to skill fusion, it wasn¡¯t much. With that in mind, he sent out a thought to dispel the screen made of earth as he shifted his focus back to the disembodied voice. Getting the feeling that the disembodied voice was always listening to him, he then asked, ¡°So, what items can I obtain from the inheritance?¡±

    ¡°As stated earlier, the inheritor can obtain any item it wished to from the inheritance, as long as it is inside the inheritance,¡± the disembodied voice said in response, to which Argentum could not help but let out a light chuckle as he asked, ¡°In other words, it¡¯s possible for me to obtain you?¡±

    Surprisingly, the disembodied voice responded to him in a serious manner as it said, ¡°Indeed, you can. Unfortunately, you would need the highest grade to do so.¡±

    Naturally, what Argentum said was a joke, so he was left at a loss for words after hearing the disembodied voice¡¯s reply. Lightly coughing to remove the awkward air surrounding him, he then asked, ¡°What items are in the inheritance?¡±

    ¡°Many things,¡± the disembodied voice answered. ¡°Resources that help speed up the growth of power, weapons, special items, etc, I¡¯m definitely sure we have it inside the inheritance.¡±

    ¡°Is that the case?¡± Argentum said, a thought instantly surfacing on his mind as he listened to the disembodied voice. Although it would be fine if the inheritance didn¡¯t have it, he would feel like he had shaved off quite some time if what he had in mind was avable for him to obtain. With such a thought in mind, he then asked, ¡°Hmm¡­do you have any items that increases one¡¯s affinity to the Earth element?¡±

    Fortunately for Argentum, the disembodied voice replied, ¡°Indeed, we do. As the inheritor is someone at the Chaos Prodigy grade, the rarest item you can obtain from the inheritance that increases one¡¯s affinity with the Earth element is theCanatir Quintessence Crystal. Would you like me to obtain it for you?¡±

    ¡°Canatir Quintessence Crystal?!¡± Argentum could not help but shout in surprise as he skimmed through Aurus¡¯ memories, instantly recalling the purpose and power of what the disembodied voice said. In Aurus¡¯ memories, the Canatir Quintessence Crystal was a crystal that would allow a piece of armor to increase its defense by a few times at the very least while giving one the ability to do some basic maniption of the earth surrounding them.

    Though it wasn¡¯t really that rare in ISE, the Canatir Quintessence Crystal was still an item highly sought after by Rank 4 and 5 Animate yers. As for those who specialized in the Earth element, the Canatir Quintessence Crystal offered arge boost to their elemental affinity. With that in mind, he hastily replied ¡°Yes,¡± not wanting to miss the chance to obtain it.

    Oblivious to what was going inside Argentum¡¯s mind, the disembodied voice went ahead and obtained the Canatir Quintessence Crystal for him, teleporting it in front of his field of vision as arge mass of Earth energy particles started to coalesce in front of him. Soon after, a dark crystal that beautifully glistened under the light of the candlelit chandelier appeared in front of Argentum, to which he grabbed with both of his hands with care.

    At the very instant he touched this dark crystal, he instantly felt like he was more connected with the Earth element than ever before. Not only that, but he felt like he now had a greater understanding of the Earth element and how it worked. Unfortunately, this feeling onlysted for a fleeting moment before disappearing. Nevertheless, Argentum could not help but look at the crystal he held with wonder as he muttered, ¡°Wow.¡±

    ¡°The inheritor has now obtained their reward from the first trial, the Canatir Quintessence Crystal,¡± the disembodied voice said in a solemn tone coincidentally just as Argentum uttered out a sound of awe. Soon after, it then said, ¡°The second trial¡¯s doors are now open, though the inheritor may wish to start the second trial at any time.¡±

    In response, Argentum lightly nodded as he conjured arge amount of tendrils on his hands to connect to the crystal he was holding. Since the disembodied voice told him that he could start the second trial at any time, he was going to follow the disembodied voice¡¯s words and start the second trial once he was finished absorbing the Canatir Quintessence Crystal.

    Swoosh¡­swoosh¡­

    Within a matter of seconds, multiple Earth energy particles started to surround Argentum as some of them were gradually absorbed by his body. With such a monotonous thing being done, it wasn¡¯t surprising for quite a long time to pass. Unexpectedly, by the time about two hours or so had passed, only the dredges of the dark crystal he was previously holding had remained connected to the tendrils he conjured, signaling to Argentum that he was now finished absorbing the Canatir Quintessence Crystal.

    ¡°I¡¯ve definitely progressed a lot,¡± Argentum could not help but say as he retracted the tendrils on his hands. As for the dredges that remained from the dark crystal, he went ahead and used his newfound understanding of the Earth element to make them disappear. Surprisingly, he was able to do so, making him let out a sigh in awe as he thought about the progress he had made with the crystal.

    ¡°I don¡¯t know how much time has passed, but that crystal alone was enough to push my understanding of the Earth element almost halfway to the True Element level,¡± Argentum muttered as he stood up from the sofa, facing the doorway that led to the second trial. Wondering if he could share the recipe of the Heaven¡¯s Earth Potion with the owner of the inheritance after he had gone through all of the trials to obtain a production line, he went through the doorway, being engulfed in white light once more.

    By the time the white light surrounding him had disappeared, he was greeted by a sight he wasn¡¯t expecting to see from an inheritance. Hastily using his enhanced senses to take a look at where he was, it did not take long for him to find out that he was standing on what seemed to be a well-made balcony, with the doorway that led back to the hall still behind him. Although he wondered why the doorway was still open behind him, his sense of vision was instead focused on what he could see from the balcony he was on.

    At the moment, with his enhanced senses and his current position, his sense of vision allowed him to see what seemed to be a giant chessboard. Of course, it wasn¡¯t just a chessboard that was scaled up to an enormous size, the number of tiles avable on this chessboard was at least a hundred times more numerous than a normal chessboard. As for the usual 16 chess pieces that came along with a chessboard, this time, there were at least 200 of them on both sides, the pieces on his side taking on the color of red.

    ¡°Soldier¡­Strategist¡­Spy¡­Reconnaissance¡­¡± As Argentum looked through the red pieces near his balcony, he noticed that although the pieces looked like something one would see from chess, the names of the pieces were instead different. Naturally, with such a setting like this for his second trial, it was impossible for Argentum to not ask the disembodied voice, inquiring with an incredibly curious tone, ¡°What¡¯s the second trial about?¡±

    ¡°The second trial shall test the second characteristic that Lord Calcifas looks for in an inheritor. There¡¯s a saying that goes, ¡®One can make others submit to them through pure strength, but only will the heavens bow to them once this strength is controlled.¡¯ In this trial, the characteristic that shall be tested is intelligence. To be more exact, your ability to formte strategies and adapt on the fly,¡± the disembodied voice replied before asking Argentum to redirect his attention towards therge chessboard.

    ¡°In front of you is the standard field for Zechys, a game normally used by strategists and other beings that want to test themanding and strategizing ability of those they¡¯re testing,¡± the disembodied voice continued. ¡°On the field are pieces that are close equivalents to being one would see in a war. Naturally, there¡¯s a side that attacks and a side that defends in a war. In this game, you¡¯re the attacking side.¡±

    ¡°Wait for a bit, I¡¯m trying to wrap my head around this,¡± Argentum could not help but say, feeling that the disembodied voice would continue exining if he did not say something like this. After a while, he finally had a feeling that he could understand the next words of the disembodied voice, prompting him to say, ¡°Alright, you can continue.¡±

    ¡°Got it,¡± the disembodied voice replied. Not long after, a wave of Earth energy particles appeared in front of Argentum, manifesting into a decently thick book filled with text. On its cover were the words ¡®Guide to Zechys¡¯. Letting out a light sigh as Argentum thought that he shouldn¡¯t have stopped the disembodied voice was actually going to do this, the disembodied voice said, ¡°Since there is a high chance that the inheritor does not know about the rules of Zechys, the inheritance has given the inheritor a guide to how Zechys is yed. Once the inheritor feels like they have understood its rules, only then will the second trial start.¡±

    Scratching his head as he felt like it would take him quite some time to understanding the rules of Zechys, he went ahead and picked up the book that had manifested in front of him before going ahead and flipping through its pages. At first, the information written on the pages were somewhatplex for Argentum, wondering if it would take him at least a day to understand all of it. But as time passed on, he found that his speed of understanding the information contained in these pages gradually sped up as he continued to flip through the pages.

    It did not take long for him toe to the conclusion that it was the heightenedprehension speed he obtained from Aurus taking effect. Silently thanking him while he continued to read, he went ahead and processed all of the information contained in the book as his mind organized the rules of Zechys from the simplest ones like the movements of the pieces, to the mostplex, like exceptions in situations when one side is trying to tackle the home base while the other side is in recuperation.

    Eventually, he had arrived at the final page of the book, closing it with a satisfying snap. cing the book on the ground of the balcony, he then focused his sense of vision towards the giant chessboard in front of him, recalling all of the information he had obtained regarding Zechys. Taking in a deep breath, he then muttered, ¡°I¡¯ve finished digesting all of the information.¡±

    ¡°Really? That fast?¡± Although the disembodied voice responded to his words, it instead responded with a hint of surprise. Nevertheless, since the inheritor said that it had understood all of the rules of the game, the disembodied voice went ahead and announced, ¡°Apologies for my previous blunder. The second trial, a game of Zechys, shall now begin!¡±

    ¡°On the attacking side, is one of the potential inheritors of the Desecrated Inheritance!¡±

    ¡°On the defending side, is a being considered as one of the greatest yers of Zechys in the Desecrated Inheritance!¡±

    ¡°The Lord of Strategies, the Monarch of Zechys Victories, and other titles that could span for hours¡­¡±

    ¡°The so-called God of Zechys¡­¡±

    ¡°udius ¡®Hot-headed Bastard¡¯ Ardvelion!¡±

    ¡°¡­¡±

    ¡°¡­¡±

    ¡°Oi! What do you mean by hot-headed bastard, you damned announcer?!¡±

    ¡°Exactly.¡±

 Chapter 327: Zechys: The First Phase

    Chapter 327: Zechys: The First Phase

    As another voice replied to the disembodied voice¡¯s announcement, the silhouette of a being gradually appeared from the balcony on the other side of the chessboard. Thanks to his enhanced senses, Argentum was able to see who he was up against, but he was slightly surprised that he was actually up against a human. Not only that, but with the aura he could sense emanating from the human, he had a feeling that he was even up against someone who had ascended to a ss.

    The human looked like any kind of guy you¡¯d meet while walking down a street. ck hair, hazelnut irises, a decently handsome face, slightly scrawny muscles, and a slight stubble under the chin. If not for the fact that the man was wearing a set of nice clothes that gave off the feeling of majesty, then Argentum would¡¯ve thought that he was a NPC.

    No, wait. That should be the other way around.

    While the human was still trying to bicker with the disembodied voice, Argentum went ahead and focused his attention on the disembodied voice as he asked, ¡°What rank has that Animate achieved?¡±

    ¡°Rank 2,¡± the disembodied voice perfunctorily replied. Hearing the disembodied voice¡¯s answer, Argentum pondered for a bit in silence before questioning the voice once more, ¡°Is the Animate¡¯s ss rted to Zechys in any way?¡±

    ¡°Indeed,¡± the disembodied voice responded to his question once more, its tone as if it was expecting Argentum to ask him such a question. ¡°Although he may not look like it, he has picked a ss that slightly specializes in situations like Zechys. He¡¯s a Rank 2 Triad Task Specialist. In simpler terms, a strategist.¡±

    ¡°I see.¡± Argentum lightly nodded in response to the disembodied voice¡¯s reply, but udius, on the other side of the area, took the disembodied voice¡¯s words in another way. Unsurprisingly, just like his nickname, the anger on his face had intensified as he yelled, ¡°Oi! What do you mean I don¡¯t look like a strategist, you shitty voice?! Let me tell you that I graduated at the top of my ss at the¡ª¡±

    Unfortunately, neither Argentum nor the disembodied voice were interested in listening to his monologue.

    ¡°Can he see me?¡± While the human was still bbering his mouth off, Argentum decided to ask this question, thinking that he might be sought after if the person on the other side saw him. He knew very well that Pseudo-Animates were considered a raremodity by many Animates. In response, the disembodied voice said in a disagreeing tone, ¡°He cannot. As a potential inheritor of the Desecrated Inheritance, I have decided to protect your privacy for now, casting a one-way barrier around your balcony where you can see him, but not the other way around.¡±

    ¡°d to hear,¡± Argentum said as an aura of relief and slight happiness exuded from him. Soon after, he took in a deep breath before focusing his gaze towards therge chessboard below them. In an instant, his previous aura had transformed into that of solemnity as he mulled over the various rules he read from the guidebook a while ago. Seeing this, the disembodied voice decided to say to udius in secret, making sure to not disturb Argentum, ¡°Could you stop bbering about your achievements for a second, you arrogant prick? I¡¯m trying to test a potential inheritor here, for fuck¡¯s sake. For once, could you do your fucking job properly?¡±

    Unexpectedly, udius stopped bbering after that as he knew the true identity of the disembodied voice. Scratching his head, he let out a light chuckle as he replied, ¡°Hehe. Did I go a bit too far?¡±

    ¡°Anyways, you don¡¯t have to worry about a thing,¡± he continued with a tone of confidence. ¡°Bringing out the Zechys board for a trial means that the potential inheritor isn¡¯t at the highest grade yet, right?¡±

    ¡°He¡¯s already at the Chaos Prodigy grade,¡± the disembodied voice replied, making udius instantly pale as he was not expecting to be up against something who was at a high grade. In an instant, his previousckadaisical yet hot-headed nature was reced with the same seriousness Argentum was exuding. At this moment, the two sides now seemed to be ready to start the game.

    ¡°The attacking side, make your move.¡± With that in mind, the disembodied voice sent a secret message to Argentum, who had now adjusted himself to the atmosphere of the area. Looking at the various pieces he had on his side, it did not take long for him to decide on his move as hemanded, ¡°Move the 2nd Private 8 tiles forward, allowing the adjacent Privates to move 2 tiles forward as well.¡±

    ¡°Wait just a damn second!¡± Just as the disembodied voice was about to do what Argentum said, udius could not help but shout, ¡°Ain¡¯t that an illegal move?!¡±

    In response, Argentum coolly answered, ¡°What illegal move? This is just a move under the Additional Private Move Section in the Zechys guidebook. Isn¡¯t that right, guide?¡±

    ¡°The potential inheritor is correct,¡± the disembodied voice monotonously replied as it sent energy towards the pieces Argentummanded to move. Not long after, the pieces were now moved to the position Argentum wanted as it continued, ¡°ording to the Zechys guidebook, such a move can indeed be used as long as it¡¯s at the start of the game.¡±

    ¡°Tch.¡± udius could not help but click his tongue as his n to make the opponent mess up had failed. Realizing that it would be hard to fight against the opponent psychologically, then he would just fight him at the same battlefield. Not even taking a second to decide on his next move, he focused his attention on a few pieces as he said, ¡°It¡¯s now my turn, right? Since that¡¯s the case, move the 4th Sergeant towards the frontlines, bringing a squad of 3 Corporals, and 7 Privates along with it. I would like you to ce the Corporals and Privates at these positions.¡±

    Whoosh!

    Without any rebuttal from Argentum, the disembodied voice went ahead and sent multiple strands of energy towards the pieces mentioned by udius, moving them at the ces udius had in mind. And just like that, the game of Zechys between Argentum and udius had kicked off.

    As Zechys was a game that was used to test strategy andmanding abilities, it meant that it simted a certain type of situation where strategy andmanding was key. In this case, the thing being simted was, in fact, war between two sides.

    Each side had five bases that could be considered as the most important piece on the board. These five bases were split into one main base and four auxiliary bases. If the opposing side had taken over the main base or the four auxiliary bases, then one could be considered to have lost the game, with the opponent winning. Of course, since Zechys simted war, it also simted trenches, traps, ambushes, and so on, and so forth.

    There was no surprise that a lot of time had passed since the beginning of the game. Zechys was a game that greatly relied on the brain, so making an ideal move took up a lot of time. By the time a winning side could be seen on the battlefield, the moon outside the inheritance was already at its peak.

    ¡­

    ¡°You¡¯ve got to be kidding me! There¡¯s no way a move like that exists in the guidebook!¡± udius could not help but shout as a small battalion he sent to ambush three of Argentum¡¯s battalions were instead single-handedly killed by a high-ranking piece as one of Argentum¡¯s battalions was allowed to move multiple tiles forward.

    Argentum could not help but scoff at udius¡¯ remarks as he said, ¡°You know, it¡¯s kind of irritating to hear you say that my moves aren¡¯t valid while I don¡¯t evenin about your moves. Movement Exception Article 7, Section 3, Move 34. That¡¯s the exact move I used. Could you please shut the fuck up from now on?¡±

    While Argentum was talking to udius, the disembodied voice allowed Argentum¡¯s move to take effect, wiping out a great number of udius¡¯ pieces. At this point, each side had around 20 or so pieces left, though Argentum was at an advantage, having around 7 more pieces than udius. Unfortunately for Argentum, udius found a way to tip the scales to his favor, avenging the small battalion he sent to ambush as one of Argentum¡¯s remaining battalions was decimated to bits.

    Eventually, the advantage Argentum had disappeared after a few moves, with each side only having exactly 10 pieces left. At this point, Argentum scratched his head as he looked at the remaining pieces he had, inwardly clicking his tongue as he noticed that the remaining pieces he had were all low-ranking pieces. Just as Argentum was about to make another move, the disembodied voice interrupted him from doing so as it announced, ¡°As both sides only have 10 pieces left, the game of Zechys shall now move onto the second phase.¡±

    Swoosh!

    Rumble¡­

    Apanied by the sound of the ground shaking with multiple gusts of wind blowing around, the giant chessboard gradually rose to the level of the balcony where Argentum and udius were standing. Alongside that, the ck and white tiles making up the chessboard was soon reced with andscape torn by war. Multiple cracks and fissures on the ground could be seen while the screams of pain andbat could be heard from time to time.

    As for the 10 remaining pieces each side had, they had now transformed into lifelike figures of humans in military uniforms. Unsurprisingly, the pieces were arranged in a way that allowed both sides to see each other¡¯s pieces. With that in mind, udius could not help but let out a loud cackle as he noticed the remaining pieces Argentum had, saying, ¡°Are you actually serious? Those are the remaining pieces you have? Are you really fit to be an inheritor of the Desecrated Inheritance?¡±

    ¡°Just because the ranks of your pieces are higher than mine, doesn¡¯t mean that I wouldn¡¯t go down without a fight,¡± Argentum coldly replied as he sent a secret message to the disembodied voice, asking, ¡°Now that I think about it, why does the Desecrated Inheritance have an Animate?¡±

    ¡°Lord Calcifas is an immensely strong being. It wouldn¡¯t be surprising for one or two Animates totch onto him for protection. Naturally, udius is one of them,¡± the disembodied voice replied, making sure that its answer wasn¡¯t heard by the other side.

    Not long after that, the voice announced, ¡°The second phase has now been prepared. The strategy portion of Zechys is now over. It is now time for the all-out war portion! There are no rules to this portion. The sky is the limit to whatever move you make against the opposing pieces!¡±

    ¡°As the attacking side has taken the first step on the first phase, the defending side shall now make the first move on this second phase,¡± it continued, eliciting a light smile on udius¡¯ face as he focused his sights on the strongest piece he had in his lineup, a Captain. Making a few gestures with his hands, he went ahead and sent multiple strands of white energy towards the Captain as he muttered, ¡°1st Circle. [Morale Boost]!¡±

    Whoosh!

    In less than an instant, the imposing aura surrounding the Captain piece had slightly intensified. Lightly nodding his head in satisfaction, udius continued to buff the Captain piece before stopping at a certain point. After making sure that all of the buffs he had cast were still there, he then eyed the strongest piece on Argentum¡¯s side as he then said, ¡°Captain, kill that Sergeant!¡±

    Swoosh!

    At the very moment udius was finished with hismand, his Captain piece unhesitatingly dashed towards Argentum¡¯s sole Sergeant piece, clenching its right fist as it was aiming tond a powerful right hook on it. In response, Argentum lightly chuckled as he watched the Captain gradually make its way towards the pieces on his side. Hearing this light chuckle, udius could not help but look in Argentum¡¯s direction and ask, ¡°What are youughing about?¡±

    ¡°Oh, nothing,¡± Argentum said in a yful tone. ¡°I would just like to let you know that from the beginning up to now¡­¡±

    ¡°¡­all of my moves have gone the way they should¡¯ve.¡±

    Whoosh!

    ¡°Morale Resonance!¡± At the instant the Captain was only a couple of meters away from his Sergeant piece, Argentum went ahead and shouted two words, instantly making the aura of his Sergeant piece reach the level of the Captain. Naturally, he went ahead and ordered his piece to avoid the attack, to which it had done so without a problem.

    As for udius, his mouth went agape as he was not expecting Argentum to be keeping such a trump card, even though he had been ying Zechys for a very long time already. With a slightly crazed expression, he could not help but ask in a shouting manner, ¡°How the heck did you achieve Morale Resonance?! Only a few piecebinations would allow that to happen! You¡¯re telling me that all of your moves have gone the way they should¡¯ve? You¡¯re bullshitting me! That¡¯s just pure luck!¡±

    ¡°Luck?¡± Argentum repeated udius¡¯st word. With an aura of yfulness around him, he responded, ¡°Well, if you don¡¯t believe me, how about I make my move then?¡±

    ¡°Sergeant, head towards the low-ranking pieces on the enemy side and crush them all,¡± Argentummanded, to which the Sergeant piece hastilyplied as it dashed at a speed notcking whenpared to udius¡¯ Captain piece.

    Listening to Argentum¡¯smand, udius could not help but scoff, thinking that Argentum had gone insane. With a sneer, he then said to him, ¡°You¡¯re telling me that your Sergeant with Morale Resonance would be able to wipe out all of my low-ranking pieces? Dream on!¡±

    In response, Argentum let out a light chuckle as an aura of killing intent hastily surrounded him. Not long after, he replied in a yful tone, ¡°Dream on? How about we make it a reality?¡±

    ¡°The remaining pieces on my side, send your energy towards the Sergeant piece and intensify the effect of Morale Resonance!¡±

    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!

    In less than an instant, multiple strands of gold energy were released from the pieces that stood by, hastily making its way to the running Sergeant as the aura surrounding it had increased. Eventually, it had reached a limit, making it seem like the Sergeant had reached the peak of itsbat power. Noticing this, udius could not help butugh out loud, thinking that he had won the second phase since Argentum had sacrificed his remaining pieces to boost the Sergeant piece¡¯s power. But then¡­

    ¡­he heard a light cracking sound.

    Crack¡­

    ¡°Oh no¡­no, no, no, no, no¡­¡±

    ¡°You¡¯ve gotta be kidding me, right? This isn¡¯t possible! Oi, you damned voice, am I really up against a Chaos Prodigy grade inheritor? This is already Prominence grade, goddammit! You better repay me for this!¡±

    While udius went ahead and vented out all of his feelings towards the disembodied voice, Argentum only muttered two words.

    ¡°Piece¡­¡±

    ¡°¡­Ascension.¡±

 Chapter 328: Zechys: The Second Phase

    Chapter 328: Zechys: The Second Phase

    Bang!

    While Argentum muttered what seemed to be the name of a move rarely used in Zechys, a loud explosion sound resounded throughout the area, originating from the Sergeant piece that Argentummanded to dash towards udius¡¯ side. Before such a thing happened, the surface of his Sergeant piece had multiple hairline cracks on its body already, giving one the idea that the explosion had something to do with it.

    And indeed, it did. At the very instant the explosion urred, the hairline cracks on Argentum¡¯s Sergeant piece proceeded to expand at unbelievable speeds, revealing a glossier surface from within. In less than an instant, a more terrifying aura could be felt from the Sergeant piece. To be more exact, it was now a piece one rank higher. A Sergeant Major piece.

    Whoosh!

    Surprisingly, the Sergeant piece was able to finish its transformation to the next ranking piece before it arrived at udius¡¯ side. Stomping one of its feet on the ground to instantly cut its momentum, it then grabbed a de from who knows where and madly swung it at the pieces neatly lined up just a few meters away from udius. udius, who was watching this scene with shock afar, could not help but shout with anger, ¡°Oh no, you don¡¯t!¡±

    ¡°2nd Circle! [Bind Offense]!¡±

    Swoosh! Swoosh!

    In less than an instant, a milky white ball of energy hastily made its way towards Argentum¡¯s now Sergeant Major piece, reducing the edge that could be felt from the aura radiating around it. Unfortunately for udius, this reduction onlysted for a short bit until the strength of the aura returned to normal, allowing the Sergeant Major piece to attack all of udius¡¯ pieces in one fell swoop.

    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!

    With such a domineering move powered by a force not seen in the same level of pieces, it was no surprise that most of the pieces udius had were severely injured from the attack, if not destroyed to bits. The oue of Argentum¡¯s swift attack was the loss of 4 low-ranking pieces and the severe injuring of all remaining pieces. Of course, the Captain piece udius had, being a higher-ranking piece, only obtained a small fraction of the damage due to the difference in rank.

    Nevertheless, with his capabilities instantly cut down to a little bit over than half, though in reality it would feel like less than half, udius could not help but grit his teeth in anger as he scratched his head in slight fury. After some time, he took in a few deep breaths as the gaze in his eyes had turned clear. At this moment, it was as if the udius Argentum was up against in the first round had returned. A calm yet calcting person.

    Letting out a light breath, he looked at the remaining pieces he had and assessed the damage they¡¯ve rued from the Sergeant Major piece. Naturally, Argentum recalled his remaining piece while udius pondered on what move he was going to make, knowing very well that he would lose if he just let his remaining piece stand there.

    After a minute or so, udius had an expression of determination on his face as he muttered, ¡°Since the remaining pieces are severely injured except for the Captain piece I have, I guess that¡¯s the only I could tip the scales back to a bnce.¡±

    Clenching his fists as he hoped that this move would indeed tips the scales back to a bnce, he thenmanded in a stern tone, ¡°All pieces except for the Captain piece, send all of your energy towards the Captain piece! Make sure to convey all of your emotions of anger and revenge while you¡¯re at it!¡±

    ¡°I see. So that¡¯s what you¡¯re going with,¡± Argentum could not help but mutter as he watched udius¡¯ next movee to life.

    Swish! Swish!

    In less than an instant, a pale gray energy surrounded the five lower-ranked pieces udius had before being tinged with a faint crimson red, melding with the gray energy surrounding them as it gave off the feeling of rage. Though, amidst that feeling of rage, the feeling of might and insanity could be felt as well, making one think that they were betting everything on a single move.

    After all of the energy surrounded the five lower-ranking pieces had taken on a reddish gray energy, these were then redirected towards the Captain piece, gradually fixing up all of the injuries it had on its body as the aura surrounding it gradually grew stronger. At the very moment the transfer of energy was done, the five pieces turned into ashes as the Captain piece was now radiating an aura notcking to the Sergeant Major piece Argentum had.

    Seriously gazing at the Sergeant Major piece that gave off a lofty feeling, udius then muttered the name of the move he had just done, officiating it as he said, ¡°[Pseudo-Morale Resonance].¡±

    ¡°[Binding Rage].¡±

    Roar!

    Surprisingly, just as udius was finished saying the name of the move, a low roar resounded from the Captain piece, seemingly giving off the feeling that the Captain piece was now being fueled by the emotions and energies of the previous pieces that sacrificed their lives for it. Of course, Argentum couldn¡¯t care less to what he thought was something akin to vor text in Zechys. Nevertheless, he could not help but radiate an aura of faint happiness as he said to udius, ¡°Now that your Captain piece is at the same strength as mine, what¡¯re you going to do next?¡±

    ¡°Of course¡­¡± udius lightly smiled with an expression of victory as he ced his hand on the Captain piece, infusing it with his energy as he said.

    ¡°The obvious move is to tip the scales back to my favor.¡±

    ¡°[Defender¡¯s Incarnation]!¡±

    Swoosh!

    In less than an instant, the energy emanating from the Captain piece and from udius himself had melded into a single type of energy, creating a pulsating wave of energy that was not only visible, but tangible as well, giving Argentum a feeling that he was being pushed back. Seeing this, he knew that udius was basically saying that he was giving it his all to not lose, even sacrificing his own energy just to gain an edge.

    In Zechys, it was incredibly rare to achieve Morale Resonance as it needed a certain lineup of pieces to do so, though it used the pieces¡¯ energy to achieve a boost in power to another piece. Pseudo-Morale Resonance also operated on the same concept, though the obtained boost in power wascking whenpared to the real thing, which was not really a downside if both sides couldn¡¯t achieve Morale Resonance.

    A rarer move above Morale Resonance was the one Argentum used, which was Piece Ascension. It¡¯s considered the strongest move one could do if one only thought about the energy from their pieces. But if one thought that they themselves were a part of the game as well, then they could use a move rarely used in actual games, but was a move that could be used in any game.

    yer Incarnation. Although the name would be different in reality depending on the side the yer was on, it meant that the yer was sacrificing their energy to boost their pieces¡¯ power to greater heights, relying on their strength to do so. If the person using this move was at a high rank, then the boost the pieces would obtain would definitely be considerable. But if the person was at a low rank, well¡­

    What¡¯s the point of using it in the first ce?

    Although udius was just a Rank 2 Animate, he had a feeling that he was fighting against someone weaker, relying on the aura radiating off of the opponent he was up against since the inheritance protected the inheritor¡¯s privacy. Feeling that the connection between him and his remaining Captain piece was now solidified, he then let out a slightly malevolent chuckle as he said to Argentum, ¡°This time, I¡¯m not gonna hold back. If you still beat me with thisst resort, then I¡¯ll give you my title of Monarch of Zechys Victories!¡±

    ¡°Although the title sounds like cringe¡­¡± Argentum could not help but say, hurting udius¡¯ pride a bit.

    ¡°I¡¯ll take you up on that offer.¡±

    ¡°[Attacker¡¯s Incarnation].¡±

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    Doing the same thing as udius, it did not take long for his energy to meld with his strengthened Sergeant Major piece. Unexpectedly, just as the connection between him and his piece was solidified, udius finally made his move, bolstering his piece¡¯s strength and speed with his own spells as it arrived in front of Argentum¡¯s Sergeant Major piece in less than a few seconds.

    With his enhanced senses, Argentum went ahead and controlled his Sergeant Major piece with his thoughts as he made it dodge the Captain piece¡¯s attack. While doing so, he was pondering over something, extending one of his palms towards the Sergeant Major piece.

    ¡®Should I use all of my buffs on my piece to finish it in one go? Or do I toy with him for a bit then finish it in one go?¡¯ he thought to himself,ing to a conclusion not long after a soft chuckle could be heard.

    ¡°I¡¯ll just do both.¡±

    ¡°[Higher Zephyr Magic: Zephyr Burst]!¡±

    ¡°[Higher Ignis Magic: Ignis Burst]!¡±

    Swoosh! Swoosh!

    As he and the piece were connected, the spells took instant effect, increasing the Sergeant Major piece¡¯s movement speed and attack power in a sh. With both spells, the piece¡¯s sidestep had turned into horizontal leap as the Captain piece had hit thin air instead of Argentum¡¯s Sergeant Major piece.

    Seeing that his attack hadn¡¯t taken effect, udius could not help but be infuriated once more, only to take in a deep breath as he went ahead and cast more of his status boosting spells on the piece, making sure that the Captain piece had enough speed and force tond a hit on Argentum¡¯s piece.

    Unfortunately for him, Argentum wasn¡¯t going to give him that chance as he made sure to dodge udius¡¯ attacks at the veryst moment, which led to the Captain piece always hitting thin air.

    Thinking that he had toyed with him for some time now, given the fact that udius¡¯ face was now red with anger, Argentum then looked at udius and said, ¡°How about we end this once and for all? Your piece just keeps on hitting thin air while my piece keeps dodging your attacks.¡±

    ¡°If you let me hit your piece, then that¡¯d be great,¡± udius said in a calm tone, to which Argentum replied, ¡°Although that proposition sounds interesting, how about¡­¡±

    ¡°I do the opposite instead?¡±

    ¡°[Zephyr Ignis Ouroboros Magic: Symbiotic Resonance]!¡±

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    In an instant, the two basic buffs Argentum had cast on the Sergeant Major piece went ahead and made multiple connecting links on the piece¡¯s surface, instantly amplifying both buffs to a level udius was not expecting. Not letting the opportunity pass up, Argentum went ahead and willed the piece to grab its de and aim straight for the Captain piece¡¯s neck while udius was still at a stupor.

    Of course, udius wouldn¡¯t let that happen, willing his Captain piece to take a step back at the very instant he could. Unfortunately, his order was just a tad toote.

    Swish!

    Thud!

    With a clean cut, the head of udius¡¯ Captain piece flew in the air for a few seconds beforending on the dusty ground with a solid thud. After a few seconds, a thud slightly far away from Argentum could be heard as well, prompting him to look at it. Surprisingly, this thud came from udius, kneeling on his knees in disbelief as he watched Argentumnd the final blow on his Captain piece. Well, to be more exact, the blow Argentum should¡¯vended in the first ce.

    ¡°You¡­what¡­¡± Still in disbelief and shock at the sudden tipping of the scales, udius could not help but look at Argentum as if he was a monster, though in reality, he was only looking at the aura shrouding him. As for Argentum, he let out a light giggle as he said, ¡°I guess I¡¯m the Monarch of Zechys Victories from now on.¡±

    Oblivious to what udius and Argentum were talking about, the disembodied voice resounded throughout the room after the game had finally reached a conclusion.

    ¡°Landing a clean hit on the opponent¡¯s remaining piece, the attacker side has imed victory in this game of Zechys, making it the first ever recorded game in this inheritance to be a victory not relying on the upation of the opposing side¡¯s bases.¡±

    ¡°Due to this new type of victory, the attacker side, which is the inheritor, has obtained two chances to obtain anything from the inheritance. Since the feat the inheritor has pulled off has never been seen in this inheritance, the inheritor¡¯s grade has been upgraded to the highest grade, the Prominence grade.¡±

    ¡°Prominence grade¡­¡± Argentum muttered, wondering if the grade actually made the trials more difficult or not. Soon after, he heard another thuding from udius¡¯ direction, only to find him to all fours as he muttered, ¡°You¡­you¡­¡±

    ¡°What are you trying to say, man?¡± he could not help but ask, wanting to know what was on his mind. Fortunately, udius finally gave a proper response¡­though it was a response he was not expecting.

    ¡°You¡­you¡­you¡¯re so cool! Making sure that the remaining pieces you had were enough for a Morale Resonance and a Piece Ascension¡­surprising me with that yer Incarnation you used¡­tell me your thought process, oh Monarch of Zechys Victories!¡±

    In response, Argentum only uttered a single sound.

    ¡°¡­huh?¡±

 Chapter 329: Suspicions and Relations

    Chapter 329: Suspicions and Rtions

    While Argentum¡¯s second trial testing his intelligence had just finished in the Desecrated Inheritance, another thing was happening in the southern part of the continent near an inheritance that gave off the same feeling as the Desecrated Inheritance. Of course, whenpared to the Desecrated Inheritance, this inheritance took on the shape of a majestic castle made out of earth, giving off an incredibly pure feeling of the Earth element anywhere went, unlike the Desecrated Inheritance mixture of death and earth.

    At the moment the moon was past its peak, a ming entity arrived in front of this castle, illuminating the surroundings quite a bit. Unfortunately, this form did notst long as this ming entity gradually lost its light, transforming into the figure of an incredibly beautiful woman with crimson hair. Naturally, this was none other than Eleanor, who hade to the Supreme Terra Firma Inheritance to confirm her suspicions of Argentum not being in this ce.

    Although that may seem to be the case, Eleanor finally realized why Argentum decided to choose the Desecrated Inheritance as the Earth-based inheritance he would go to instead of the Supreme Terra Firma Inheritance. Letting out a light sigh, she then muttered to herself, ¡°Even though I moved at like 70% of my full speed to conserve a bit of my energy, it still took slightly over a day for me to arrive at this ce. I know she ced her inheritance here since it was dense in the Earth element, but she could¡¯ve settled for a ce that had around 80% of this ce¡¯s density and be content with it.¡±

    ¡°Ah, well. She¡¯s definitely a stubborn girl, unlike me.¡± Eleanor giggled as she said these words to herself. Soon after, she sent arge ball of her energy into the majestic castle, giving off the message that she was there. Fortunately, it did not take long for a strand of energy familiar to her to connect, prompting her to say in glee, ¡°Rosalia, it¡¯s been so long!¡±

    ¡°Eleanor? Is that actually you?¡± Rosalia, who was the one Eleanor was trying to contact, responding in a slightly sleep deprived tone, though the brewing excitement hidden in her tone could still be perceived. ¡°You finally took the time toe and see your older sister. Come,e,e! Come inside, we have a lot to talk about!¡±

    Just as Rosalia was finished talking, arge mass of brown energy enveloped Eleanor, leaving no trace of her being in front of the castle at the moment it disappeared. It only took a small amount of time for her to appear somewhere else, appearing in front of a woman who was sitting on afy brown sofa while wearing loose dark green pajamas.

    Even though this woman seemed to have just woken up from her sleep, her natural beauty could still be seen. From her brown hair to her brown irises, and even the small dark brown mole under the right side of her lips, she exuded a feeling that she was one with the earth. This woman was none other than Rosalia Terrelle, the woman Eleanor was talking to, as well as the owner of the Supreme Terra Firma Inheritance.

    Seeing Eleanor in front of her, herckadaisical posture from before had turned into that of expectation as she stood up from her seat and leaped towards her to embrace her. Eleanor, who was expecting something like that to happen to her as long as it involved Rosalia, decided to hug her back as she said, ¡°Long time no see, Rosalia. I know we haven¡¯t seen each other for a long time, but I got something to ask you that¡¯s very urgent.¡±

    ¡°Oh?¡± Rosalia uttered in response, the excitement on her face being reced with slight disappointment as it has been a while since she had seen Eleanor. Nevertheless, she knew that with great strength came great responsibility, so it wasn¡¯t unnatural for Eleanor toe see her for things just like these. Then again, she wasn¡¯t satisfied with just seeing her for a few minutes before leaving, so she said to her, ¡°I¡¯ll only answer your question on the condition that you apany me for 3 days.¡±

    ¡°Really?¡± Eleanor could not help but inwardly let out a sigh, wondering how such a stubborn Animate she had met identally would be her older sister in name. Nheless, she eded to her request as she replied in a defeated tone, ¡°Fine, fine, fine. I¡¯ll apany you for 3 days, a week even as long as you answer my question. Though I might have to go out for some time after you answer my question. If you want, you can tag along with me while I head there.¡±

    Hearing Eleanor¡¯s response, Rosalia released Eleanor from her embrace as she jumped for joy, saying, ¡°Yay! I can finally be with my younger sister for a week! Yippee!¡±

    Seeing how Rosalia reacted to her response, Eleanor let out a light chuckle, pondering to herself that this was probably why she decided to be sisters with this girl. Fortunately, Rosalia didn¡¯t celebrate for that long, though the smile on her face could be seen as she asked, ¡°So, what question do you want to ask?¡±

    ¡°I was just wondering if you have or had a Wind-based Pseudo-Animate enter your inheritance these past couple of days,¡± Eleanor asked, to which Rosalia¡¯s expression instantly turned serious as she questioned, ¡°Are you nning to steal my future disciple away from me?¡±

    ¡®He actually went here? He actually listened to what I said?¡¯ was the first thought that entered Eleanor¡¯s mind as she looked at Rosalia¡¯s reaction. Of course, she still had her suspicions as to whether this was true or not. Soon after, she replied, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯m not. Anyways, did a being like that enter your inheritance?¡±

    ¡°Yeah.¡± Rosalia nodded. Not long after, an expression of awe and surprise could be seen on her face as she continued, ¡°To be honest, this being might be the best disciple I could ever have. Although he¡¯s mainly focused on the Wind element, he shows great affinity with the Earth element as well. On top of that, he can learn and ponder over skills at insanely fast rates and even fight against those at a higher level without breaking a sweat!¡±

    ¡®Sounds like the Argentum I know, though why do I feel like there¡¯s a catch?¡¯ Eleanor thought to herself. Deciding that the best way to find out if Argentum was actually inside the inheritance would be to see him firsthand, she then told her, ¡°Is it alright if I meet with this future disciple you¡¯re nning to take? I only want to confirm some suspicions I have.¡±

    Lightly yawning, Rosalia lightly nodded as she replied, ¡°Sure. Follow me.¡±

    ¡­

    Back at the Desecrated Inheritance, udius was looking at Argentum with an expression of awe and reverence, though in reality, he was just looking at the aura shrouding Argentum. In response, Argentum could only utter a single sound.

    ¡°¡­huh?¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t tell me you didn¡¯t calcte all of those moves, just like what you told me back there?¡± udius could not help but say as he stood up. Thinking that Argentum¡¯s huh was a response to his previous statement, he then became slightly disappointed as he asked, ¡°Please tell me you calcted all of those moves¡­right?¡±

    ¡°Er¡­¡± Argentum could not help but scratch his head, even though he knew udius couldn¡¯t see him. It was just that the question was too sudden. In fact, he wasn¡¯t expecting his opponent to even ask him these questions. Thankfully, it only took him a bit of time to regainposure as he said, ¡°I did calcte all of those moves, but¡­¡±

    ¡°What a madman! Tell me your thought process, oh Monarch of Zechys Victories!¡± udius interrupted Argentum from saying what he wanted to say, clenching his fists in excitement. Scratching his head even further, Argentum could not help but focus on the disembodied voice and ask, ¡°Can I leave this ce?¡±

    ¡°The exit has always been open in the first ce,¡± the disembodied voice resounded throughout the room, answering Argentum¡¯s question. ¡°Just turn around and you¡¯ll return to the initial room.¡±

    ¡°Aw,e on! Just answer my questions for a bit, will you?¡± udius could not help but say. ¡°I finally found someone who could fight against me on Zechys at a simr level, and you¡¯re just letting him leave like that? I won¡¯t let that happen!¡±

    ¡°Aren¡¯t you a bit too obsessed with Zechys?¡± Argentum said in response to udius¡¯ words, to which udius decided to take on a serious expression as he solemnly said, ¡°Well, although Zechys is a game, it¡¯s still a decent emtion of war and the various strategies one could use in war. Learning thought processes and strategies for Zechys helps me be a better strategist in the battlefield.¡±

    He then let out a light chuckle as he continued, ¡°Of course, I also love the game itself.¡±

    Although Argentum wanted to leave a while ago since he felt that udius gave off the vibes one would get from an incredibly devout believer of a religion, right now, he felt like a sane man to him. With a light sigh, he decided to ede to his request as he said, ¡°Fine, fine, fine. I¡¯ll exin my thought process to you. Just don¡¯t do that crazed adoration thing ever again. It¡¯s kind of sickening.¡±

    ¡°Yes, oh Monarch of Zechys Victori¡ªI mean¡­sure,¡± udius responded, interrupting himself from continuing with his crazed adoration shtick.

    And so, Argentum went ahead and exined his thought process while undergoing the two phases of Zechys. With each move Argentum exined, the more and more amazed udius became. Sometimes, he even wondered if such a move possible, even though he experienced it firsthand. By the end of it, udius was left with his mouth agape while Argentum said, ¡°Is that all? If so, I¡¯ll take my leave.¡±

    ¡°Ah.¡± Surprisingly, udius was brought back to reality by those words. Soon after, he respectfully bowed in front of Argentum as he said, ¡°Thanks for enlightening this lousy strategist right here. You¡¯ve opened my eyes to a greater horizon. If it¡¯s possible, may I know your name?¡±

    Feeling that there was no problem with his question, Argentum replied, ¡°The name¡¯s Argentum.¡±

    After saying those words, he was about to head back to the room he was previously in, only to think that it would be fine to ask udius a few questions since thetter asked him some. With that in mind, he then asked him, ¡°Speaking of which, why did you decide to side yourself with Lord Calcifas? Was it for protection?¡±

    ¡°Sure, you could say that a part of it was for protection, but I also had another reason why I decide to go under Lord Calcifas¡¯ wing,¡± udius hastily replied, seeing how Argentum was ready to answer his. Of course, he also answered this since he felt like it wouldn¡¯t be bad to build a rtionship with this being in front of him.

    With a shy smile, he then exined, ¡°It¡¯s mostly because of resources. I came from a poor family, so I decided to go under his wing to obtain some resources. Naturally, he would only give me resources as long as I worked hard¡­so I did. Right now, my parents are now better off while my fiance is proud to have me as her future husband thanks to Lord Calcifas.¡±

    ¡°You should be more proud of yourself,¡± Argentum could not help but say. ¡°Without enough talent and hard work, you wouldn¡¯t have been able to put Lord Calcifas¡¯ resources to good use.¡±

    After saying those words, he then turned around to walk back to the room he was previously in, only to stop in his tracks as he told the disembodied voice in secret, ¡°Remove the aura that¡¯s preventing him from seeing me.¡±

    ¡°Alright.¡± In less than an instant, the aura surrounding Argentum had disappeared, allowing udius to see Argentum¡¯s backside. Of course, he was surprised to find out that he was fighting against a Pseudo-Animate, but that instead made him be in awe of Argentum even more. Committing his backside into his memory, udius then said, ¡°If you evere to Zoras City in the future, find me in the Zoras Elite Institute and I¡¯ll make sure to help you out!¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll keep that in mind,¡± Argentum said in response as he walked through the exit, leaving udius alone to himself. Soon after, the disembodied voice resounded throughout the room udius was in, asking him, ¡°How are you so sure that he¡¯lle to your city?¡±

    ¡°Just a hunch,¡± udius lightly chuckled as he said, ¡°I¡¯m sure you decided to have him undergo these trials for the same reason.¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t get too privy,¡± the disembodied voice said with a light chuckle. ¡°Thanks foring here on short notice.¡±

    ¡°No problem,¡± udius let out a light chuckle as well. He then removed the dust off his clothes as he said, ¡°Make sure to give me a reward for this, okay?¡±

    ¡°Melzarin?¡±

    ¡°¡­¡±

    ¡°Oi. You there?¡±

    ¡°¡­¡±

    ¡°Oh, you little piece of shit.¡±

 Chapter 330: Perks of Prominence

    Chapter 330: Perks of Prominence

    Whoosh!

    Arriving at the room he was previously in, Argentum went towards one of the sofas and sat down on it once more, wondering what he could obtain from the inheritance now that his grade has now improved to the highest level, the Prominence grade. Although he was somewhat excited to know what kind of skills and items he could obtain at the highest grade, he could not help but think about the increased difficulty of the trials after obtaining the things he needed.

    Well, he couldn¡¯t feel the increase in difficulty for now though. Nevertheless, he made sure to stay vignt in every trial in the off chance that the trials he would undergo be harder. cing the thought of the difficulty of the subsequent trials at the back of his mind, he then went ahead and sent out a thought, asking for a screen that contains all of the skills that could be redeemed at the Prominence grade.

    Unsurprisingly, a screen made out of earth appeared in front of his field of vision, just like the previous times he called for the system. Taking a quick nce through the various skills he could obtain, he let out a sigh at the very end, thinking that they didn¡¯t offer anything substantial even though they were skills only obtainable at the highest grade.

    ¡°Sure, these skills might be great for other people, but to me, I just don¡¯t see a point in obtaining them,¡± Argentum muttered to himself, only to continue soon after, ¡°Is it because I already experienced the feeling of having an elemental affinity at the True Element level? Is it because I know that putting in effort into these skills will be useless once I achieve True Earth Affinity?¡±

    ¡°Well, I guess that¡¯s definitely the case,¡± he said to himself soon after as he ordered the screen in front of him to disappear. Soon after, he focused his attention towards the disembodied voice and asked, ¡°What items can I obtain now that my grade has increased to the highest level? To be more specific, items that increase one¡¯s affinity to the Earth element?¡±

    ¡°There¡¯s only one item one grade higher than the Canatir Quintessence Crystal in this inheritance that does just that,¡± the disembodied voice replied. ¡°I¡¯m not certain if you¡¯ve heard of it, but the name of the item is the Condensed Terra World Shard.¡±

    ¡°The Condensed Terra World Shard? Seriously? This inheritance actually has that?¡± Argentum¡¯s reaction this time was more subdued since he knew that this inheritance had the Canatir Quintessence Crystal. Nevertheless, he was still surprised that the inheritance could procure an item that was normally sought after by Rank 6 Animates in ISE.

    Suppressing the excitement that he was feeling since he knew that even a single Condensed Terra World Shard would have enough energy in it to let him achieve the True Element level of affinity with the Earth element, he imitated the sound of one clearing their throat as he calmed hisposure. After making sure that he had returned to his usual calm, he then asked the disembodied voice, ¡°Is it possible to use both of my chances to obtain two Condensed Terra World Shards?¡±

    ¡°Normally, that would be the case,¡± the disembodied voice said in response to Argentum¡¯s words, making Argentum be slightly disappointed since it seemed that he wouldn¡¯t be able to obtain a Condensed Terra World Shards. Though, after listening to the voice¡¯s next words, this disappointment was reced with excitement once more as the disembodied voice said.

    ¡°Unfortunately, the inheritance doesn¡¯t have two Condensed Terra World Shards to give you as it has given one away to a previous inheritor. Is it fine if your one chance would be used to obtaining a Condensed Terra World Shards while your other chance would be instead used to obtain 5 Canatir Quintessence Crystals as recement?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯d be d to,¡± Argentum said in response to the disembodied voice¡¯s words. Although he was not sure what he was going to do with the Canatir Quintessence Crystals he would get, he thought that it would be a good backup in the case that the energy contained inside the Condensed Terra World Shard wouldn¡¯t be enough for him to achieve True Element level.

    It did not take long for the disembodied voice toply with his requests as arge mass of Earth energy particles coalesced in front of him. Soon after, these Earth energy particles congregated in six ces, with the first five revealed dark crystals that radiated the pure aura of earth. As for the sixth ce, it revealed a shard that looked like broken ss. Though, if one looked closely, a small world could be seen inside the shard, giving off not only the aura of earth, but the aura of life and death as well.

    Without hesitation, Argentum grabbed the 5 crystals and the shard, instantly feeling a few waves of Earth energy particles course throughout his body as he touched them. He then ced the 5 crystals inside the hole in his upper torso where the Tome of the Four Elements was. After that, he pondered over something for a bit, only to fixate his sense of vision towards the Condensed Terra World Shard he was holding as he said, ¡°If I try to absorb all of them at once, I might explode from the energy.¡±

    ¡°The inheritor has obtained the rewards from the second trial, a Condensed Terra World Shard and 5 Canatir Quintessence Crystals.¡± Just as Argentum was about to start absorbing the energy from the shard to increase his affinity, the disembodied voice resounded throughout the room he was in, making him radiate an aura of slight annoyance, though he knew that the inheritance was just doing its thing. ¡°The third trial¡¯s doors are now open, though the inheritor may opt to start it at any time.¡±

    Giving a perfunctory nod to the disembodied voice¡¯s words, Argentum then closed his sense of vision once more as he attuned himself to the Earth energy particles in the surroundings. While doing so, he connected a lot of energy tendrils to the shard he was holding, allowing the energy contained inside the shard to course through his body. Naturally, the energy from the shard was energy that was inclined to the Earth element, so he redirected this energy towards understanding the Earth element to a deeper crystal.

    And with that, quite a considerable amount of time has passed. Whenpared to the amount of time it took Argentum to absorb the Canatir Quintessence Crystal he obtained from clearing the first trial, it was around three times longer, taking him five hours. Since he entered the inheritancete at night, it was no surprise that the sun was now peeking out of the horizon.

    By the time he had taken a little bit over five hours to absorb the energy from the Condensed Terra World Shard, a wave of energy soon radiated from his body, covering the room with the feeling that it was all made out of earth for a few seconds. Fortunately, this feeling disappeared not long after, returning the room back to its previous state as the Condensed Terra World Shard was nowhere to be seen on the tendrils Argentum made.

    With an aura of immense excitement and joy, Argentum opened his sense of vision as he retracted all of the tendrils that were connected to the Condensed Terra World Shard. Standing up and doing a light stretch as he had been sitting all this time, he then muttered to himself with glee, ¡°I finally achieved the True Element level for the Earth element. Kinda ironic if I think about it.¡±

    Ding!

    As he said this, a notification sound resounded in his mind, which apanied a screen filled to the brim with notifications.

    ¡®[Animate Earth Affinity] has been upgraded to [True Earth Affinity]. Due to the inherent limits brought about by the upgraded skill, [True Earth Affinity] has reced [Animate Earth Affinity] while regressing down to C-grade Mortal level.¡¯

    ¡®Thanks to [True Earth Affinity], [Earth Resistance] has been upgraded to [True Earth Resistance], regressing down to C-grade Mortal level.¡¯

    ¡®Due to the user understanding more of the Earth element thanks to [True Earth Affinity], all active Earth-based skills and spells have been considered as incredibly inferior, prompting the system to fuse the multiple skills as one with the help of [True Earth Affinity].¡¯

    ¡®The active skill [Sage¡¯s Earth Magic] has been created. Due to the properties of the skill, the user is now able to create their own Earth-based skills and spells, using this skill as a basis. Improving the grade and level of the skill would allow the user to craft moreplex and powerful spells.¡¯

    Although he was eager to test out the spells he could use now that he had ess to [Sage¡¯s Earth Magic], he knew that this was not the right ce to test something like that out, unless one of the subsequent trials he hadter on would need him to fight. Even though that was the case, he had a feeling that he could manipte the Earth energy particles forming the room and mold it into anything he wished to.

    Of course, he did not do that since that would incur the wrath of Lord Calcifas and possibly send him out of the inheritance. Although continuing the trials from here on out wouldn¡¯t mean much to him since he had achieved his goal, he could still give the items and skills he obtained from this inheritance to members in the Verdant Blossom Branch Alliance, or perhaps Aurus once he woke up from his evolution process.

    Taking in a deep breath, he then looked at his body, remembering how his appearance changed after he had achieved the True Element level of affinity for the Water element. Unsurprisingly, the middle part of his upper torso, which used to be the boundary between the green and blue portion of his body, had now taken on a light brown, which signified the fact that his affinity with the Earth element had now reached the True Element level. After that, he looked at the door that led to the third trial, which was seemingly in the same ce the door to the second trial was. Wondering if he would be led to another balcony, he then walked through the doorway, only to be blinded by white light for a short while.

    Naturally, the white light gradually disappeared as he continued to walk. But instead of a wide view from a balcony greeting his field of vision, what instead greeted his sight was bookshelf upon bookshelf, filled to the brim with books that had covers in various shades of brown. Scratching his head as to what he would do in this next trial, he went towards one of the bookshelves and grab a random book to read its cover.

    ¡°[Earth Spike]¡­¡± Argentum muttered to himself before grabbing another book, only to find out that the title of the book had something to do with the Earth element. After some time, he came to the conclusion that this room he was in was filled to the brim with bookshelves that contained skill books focused on the Earth element. Just as he was about to ask the disembodied voice if he was finished with all of the trials, the disembodied voice resounded throughout the room as it said.

    ¡°The third trial shall test the third characteristic Lord Calcifas looks for in an inheritor. Sure, strength and intelligence are two important characteristics a being should have to be domineering. But only with enoughprehension would one be able to utilize both strength and intelligence to their fullest, removing all obstacles in front of them.¡±

    ¡°In this trial, the inheritor needs to learn as many Earth-based skills as much as possible in the span of three hours,¡± the disembodied voice continued. ¡°The number of Earth-based skills the inheritor learns within this span of time will dictate the reward the inheritor shall obtain once time is up. Of course, the inheritor can also opt to expound on these skills, improving their original powers. This would also be considered in the reward of the inheritor for this trial.¡±

    ¡°And so, the third trial has now¡­begun!¡±

    Whoosh!

    At the very instant the disembodied voice was finished talking, arge mass of Earth energy particles coalesced near the ceiling of the room Argentum was in, transforming intorge numbers that served as a timer. At this moment, Argentum was confused. He was confused not because of what he had to do, but because of the sheer difficulty of the trial he was undergoing.

    ¡°Is this¡­really a trial someone with the highest difficulty grade would take?¡± Argentum could not help but ask himself as he picked up a couple skill books from the bookshelf in front of him. Just as he was about to learn these skills, he then wondered if these skills would automatically fuse with [Sage¡¯s Earth Magic]. If it did, then that meant that it would be impossible for him to obtain a hefty reward from this trial.

    With that in mind, he went ahead and asked the system this question, to which the system responded that it would only fuse the skills once he decides to do so. Having this doubt gone, he let out a light sigh of relief as he allocated a portion of his attention to learning all of the skills on the various bookshelves while the remaining portion was allocated to the difficulty of the trial he was currently taking.

    ¡°A trial that focuses on the amount of skills I could learn within a certain span of time¡­¡±

    ¡°Although I know that this trial appears in other inheritances as certain skills do need a certain level ofprehension in order to be learned¡­¡±

    ¡°Why do I feel like this trial was intentionally made for me?¡±

 Chapter 331: All Roads Lead to Suspicion

    Chapter 331: All Roads Lead to Suspicion

    While Argentum was just about to begin absorbing the Condensed Terra World Shard he had obtained in order to achieve the True Element level of affinity for the Earth element, in the Supreme Terra Firma Inheritance, both Rosalia and Eleanor had arrived in front of a room that one would not normally find inside an inheritance. In fact, it would be more appropriate to say that this room was something one would normally find inside a home.

    Afy bed, a desk that looked like it was made for studying, minimalistic yet nice-looking lights, and other amenities that seemed to fit the overall vibe of the room. This could all be found inside this room, which was actually the room where Rosalia usually slept. At the moment though, a tall Pseudo-Animate that was made out of pure green energy could be seen sitting on the bed Rosalia slept on, fiddling with its fingers in a nervous manner.

    Looking at the Pseudo-Animate, it only took Eleanor less than an instant to realize that the Pseudo-Animate Rosalia had in her inheritance was not Argentum at all. At most, it was just pure coincidence that a Pseudo-Animate that exhibited the same abilities like Argentum would appear. Nevertheless, she couldn¡¯t tell Rosalia that she had finally cleared all of her suspicions without even knowing the Pseudo-Animate a bit more. So, with an expression of slight surprise, she looked at Rosalia beside her and asked, ¡°Could you introduce me to this future disciple of yours?¡±

    ¡°Well, I did say future disciple a while ago, but in actuality, he¡¯s my disciple already,¡± Rosalia slightly sticked her tongue out as she said this. She then went to where the Pseudo-Animate was and ced her hands on his shoulder as she introduced the being to Eleanor. ¡°As I¡¯ve said before, this Pseudo-Animate has shown amazing talent in learning skills, as well as impablebat ability where he could even fight against those that are of a higher level than him.¡±

    ¡°As for his name, it¡¯s better if he says it instead,¡± Rosalia continued, to which the Pseudo-Animate lightly nodded as he stood up from the bed before bowing in front of Eleanor. ¡°Nice to meet you, Lady Eleanor. My name is Argento, a disciple under Lady Rosalia.¡±

    ¡®Even his name is simr to his, how much of a coincidence can this be?¡¯ Eleanor could not help but think to herself as her mouth twitched from hearing his name. Letting out a light yet seemingly awkward chuckle, she returned the greeting to Argento as she said, ¡°It¡¯s nice to meet you as well. Is it fine for you tell me the reason why you decided to learn under Rosalia here?¡±

    ¡°Ah, I¡¯m aiming to fuse both Earth and Wind together to achieve Tempestuous Terra Firma,¡± Argento replied to her question without any hesitation, giving off the feeling that he was proud to be learning under Rosalia as he talked. In response, Eleanor lightly nodded before sending a strand of energy to Rosalia in order to talk with her in secret. After the connection between them had be stable, she then said to her through the strand, ¡°I¡¯ve confirmed my suspicions. That disciple of yours is not the being I¡¯m not looking for.¡±

    ¡°Oh?¡± Rosalia raised her eyebrows in response to Eleanor¡¯s words. Not expecting that Eleanor¡¯s reason for being in her inheritance was because of a being, she went ahead and asked, ¡°Who are you looking for, then?¡±

    ¡°Coincidentally, his name is not far off from your disciple¡¯s name. His name is Argentum, and he¡¯s also a Wind-based Pseudo-Animate just like Argento,¡± Eleanor responded. ¡°But he¡¯s far more terrifying than that Argento of yours.¡±

    Hearing that her disciple was inferior to this being Eleanor was talking, Rosalia could not help but lightly frown as her pride was somewhat being shattered in the process. Fortunately, Rosalia knew that Eleanor was straightforward when it came to conversations like these, so she brushed any idea of taking it out on the being Eleanor mentioned off. In fact, her curiosity was piqued because of what Eleanor said, prompting her to ask Eleanor, ¡°How¡¯s he more terrifying than Argento?¡±

    ¡°First off, he¡¯s aiming for Lesser Origin,¡± Eleanor said, to which Rosalia became speechless as she was not expecting such a goal from such a being. With her curiosity being piqued even more, she then asked, ¡°Did he seed?¡±

    ¡°He¡¯s already obtained [Fire Affinity] from me and [Water Affinity] from Felix. The only thing left for him to achieve it is to obtain [Earth Affinity],¡± Eleanor replied, only to let out a sigh as she continued, ¡°And that¡¯s why I came to your inheritance, wondering if he decided to heed my words and head here.¡±

    ¡°Who knew he¡¯d be so adamant in going to that damned Desecrated Inheritance?¡± she could not help but feel a bit of anger not because of Argentum, but because of the owner of the inheritance itself. Noticing a hint of rage in Eleanor¡¯s words, Rosalia could not help but ask, ¡°What¡¯s wrong? Melzarin¡¯s inheritance isparable to mine though.¡±

    ¡°Sure, you could say that,¡± Eleanor said in response to her words, adding, ¡°But Melzarin¡¯s the worst guy I¡¯ve ever met.¡±

    ¡°Melzarin¡¯s a nice gu¡ª¡± Rosalia could not help but say in response to Eleanor¡¯s statement, only for her to stop as she noticed that Eleanor was ring at her with daggers in her eyes. Scratching her head, she took in a deep breath and asked, ¡°So, are you nning to head to his inheritance now that you¡¯ve confirmed your suspicions?¡±

    ¡°Pretty much,¡± Eleanor replied in a solemn tone as she suppressed the anger she was feeling. ¡°I¡¯ll be heading at the fastest speed I can muster. If you want toe with me, you can, though I¡¯ll still hold up my part of the deal once I¡¯m done with what I have to do in that ce if you don¡¯t.¡±

    ¡°Well, it¡¯s been a while since I¡¯ve left the inheritance, so why not?¡± Rosalia let out a light giggle as she cut the connection between the two of them before covering her upper and lower torso in arge mass of Earth energy particles. Soon after, these particles disappeared, revealing Rosalia in a long-sleeved dark green t-shirt and ck jeans,plemented by minimalistic running shoes.

    Not minding where her pajamas had gone, Eleanor then turned around and summoned a great portion of her energy as she said, ¡°I¡¯ll be using some of my movement speed buffs to hasten the journey. I¡¯d appreciate it if you use yours as well.¡±

    ¡°Why wouldn¡¯t I?¡± Rosalia let out a chuckle as she continued, ¡°The distance between his inheritance and mine is too far away, so it¡¯s a given that I¡¯d use to speed up the journey.¡±

    After that, she looked at Argento, who was looking at the two of them, and said, ¡°Make sure to take good care of the inheritance while I¡¯m gone, okay?¡±

    ¡°As you wish, Lady Rosa¡ª¡± Argento was about to reply, only to stop as the two of them disappeared in front of his field of vision. Scratching his head in slight confusion, he let out a light sigh as he muttered, ¡°She should really ce her pajamas in a better ce. Did she think hiding it under the bed sheets was a good ce? You¡¯re making me to do more work here.¡±

    ¡­

    While Rosalia and Eleanor were heading to the Desecrated Inheritance at the fastest speed they could muster, a tall silhouette could be seen let out a slightly malicious chuckle from time to time as a screen could be seen in front of his field of vision. On it were tworge dots and a small yellow dot that gradually blinked from time to time. This small yellow dot was making its way to therge dot up north, giving the silhouette the idea that the thing that the dot was representing was graduallying to one of the ces it decided to mark on the screen.

    ¡°She¡¯s finallying¡­¡± the silhouette muttered to itself in a slightly excited tone as the faint cking of bones could be heard throughout the room. ¡°Eleanor¡¯s finallying to the inheritance¡­¡±

    It turns out that the tworge dots on the screen represented the Desecrated Inheritance, which was therge dot up north, and the me Spirit Inheritance, which was therge dot down south. As for the small yellow dot, that represented none other than Eleanor, the owner of the me Spirit Inheritance.

    With that in mind, it was no surprise that this silhouette was none other than the owner of the Desecrated Inheritance. A dark skeleton that was 2 meters tall and had dark brown mes in its eye sockets, this being, who went by the name of Lord Calcifas in order to look imposing in front of the inheritors, was also the disembodied voice Argentum was talking to, as well as Melzarin Vadicarde, the owner of the Desecrated Inheritance.

    After confirming that she was heading to his inheritance, Melzarin could not help but let out a loud cackle as he said, ¡°She¡¯s finallying¡­she¡¯s finallying¡­she¡¯s finallying to see me again!¡±

    ¡°Oh, Eleanor¡­from the first time I met you, I already fell in love with you,¡± he continued to mutter, bringing up a screen that showed what was happening in the room where Argentum was taking a trial. As he watched Argentum move through the bookshelves in ackadaisical manner while lightly grazing his hands over the books, Melzarin could not help but say, ¡°If not for this young Pseudo-Animate right here, I might have never gotten a chance to meet you again for a few thousand more years. Thank you for being rted to Eleanor.¡±

    ¡°Speaking of which, this being is just way too fast atprehending, even finding out that this trial had something to do with his specialties,¡± Melzarin continued, letting out a sigh of relief after remembering that Argentum¡¯s suspicions gradually died down after some time. Nevertheless, he knew that he had made a mistake, thus he was going to make sure that if Eleanor came after the third trial was done, he would create a trial that did not seem to be inclined to his specialties.

    ¡°Well, to be honest, I really only have two trials, so he has already passed my inheritance with flying colors, but¡­¡± he said, focusing his attention on the screen with dots once more.

    ¡°Just hold on for a little bit more, young Pseudo-Animate. I¡¯ll surely repay you once she arrives.¡±

    ¡­

    In another part of the Desecrated Inheritance, one would find a room filled to the brim with bookshelves that contained skill books that were inclined to the Earth element. Inside this room was a Pseudo-Animate that had thecolors green, brown, and blue all at once on his body. Of course, this was none other than Argentum, who had been sitting near the entrance of the room cross-legged for over two and a half hours now.

    During the previous two and a half hours, he waltzed through the various bookshelves of the room, lightly grazing his hands over the books as the system continuously announced to him that he had learned a new skill inclined towards the Earth element. He could afford to do this since hisprehension speed was increased thanks to Aurus consuming an All-Seeing Comprehension Leaf before he underwent an evolution process. If it was any other being, even those with the best talent would take around half a minute to learn a skill.

    At the moment, his sense of vision was closed as hemanded the system to bring up information regarding [Sage¡¯s Earth Magic], namely the innate spell that came along after learning it. As [Sage¡¯s Water Magic] came with [Niflheim Horizon], a domain spell that reduced the defense of his enemies, he was curious if the first spell he would obtain from [Sage¡¯s Earth Magic] was a domain spell.

    Ding!

    ¡°Sure enough, it¡¯s also a domain spell,¡± Argentum inwardly muttered to himself as he read the name that was stered on the screen that appeared in his mind.

    ¡°[Jotunheim Domain]¡­¡± he murmured the name of the spell, pondering over it for a bit as he continued, ¡°If my memory¡­I mean, Aurus¡¯ memory serves me correct, then the Fire and Wind variant of this skill would have something to do with Muspelheim and Alfheim? What does it have something to do with Norse mythology?¡±

    ¡°In any case, I¡¯ll probably find the answer that in the future. For now, identify [Jotunheim Domain],¡± he added, eliciting a notification sound to resound from the system as a screen appeared in his mind.

    ________

    [Jotunheim Domain]

    MP Cost: 20% of the user¡¯s MP gauge, 1% of the user¡¯s MP gauge for each additional second of binding

    Understanding the intrinsic properties of the element of Earth, the sage of earth now has ess to the realm of arth in another ne. This spell allows the user to create a domain that emtes the realm of earth from another ne, binding those the sage deems its enemies in a world of earth, as well as reducing theirbat ability to near zero.

    When the user decides to only use the spell for the first cast, the binding effect would onlyst for 10 seconds. Any second after that, would continuously consume a small percentage of the user¡¯s MP in order to keep the binding effect active.

    > Duration: 10 seconds / dependent on the user¡¯s MP regeneration rate

    Note: All spells from the [Sage¡¯s Earth Magic] skill, may it be crafted or innate, would show twice as much power inside this domain.

    ________

    ¡°From the effects of this new spell, I guess the first spells would also have something to do with giving a debilitating effect to those I deem as enemies?¡± Argentum muttered to say, wondering what kind of effects his attacks would have under the effects of both [Niflheim Horizon] and [Jotunheim Domain].

    ¡°I should probably go and look through the bookshelves one more time. I might¡¯ve missed a few skills here and there,¡± he said soon after, ready to open his eyes and stand up to waltz through the bookshelves another time. But just as he opened his eyes, a familiar fiery silhouette appeared in front of him, making him fall at a loss of words as he muttered.

    ¡°Eleanor?¡±

 Chapter 332: The Vanadir Coalition

    Chapter 332: The Vanadir Coalition

    XXXX Continent, Duvir Province, within the Astelia family household.

    As the trio made their way out of the Astelia family household, the sight of Griselle walking side by side with the Ninth Prince and his royal advisor brought a ton of shock to them as they could not help but remembered theirdy¡¯s denial in joining his team. Who would¡¯ve thought that in the span of one night, this would turn upside down, with theirdy seemingly joining Vanadir¡¯s team?

    Noticing the gazes that were on them, Griselle told the two to stop walking for a bit as she turned around and told the servants to have everyonee at the entrance of the household, to which they hastilyplied as they knew that Griselle was the person who held the most sway in the household other than the family leader. After doing so, she then told Vanadir through a strand of energy, knowing the question that was on his mind, ¡°In order to make sure that the other members of the family don¡¯t end up joining another prince¡¯s team, I have to do this.¡±

    With a slightly guilty smile, Vanadir responded as they continued to walk outside, ¡°Although I wasn¡¯t expecting you to do something like that, I definitely appreciate it. How about I ask Dane to give you some more time to mingle with him?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯d actually love that!¡± Griselle hastily replied with glee, only to notice that response was a bit out of line. She then let out a light cough as her face gradually turned red, even though she and Vanadir were just talking through strands. ¡°I mean, that would be kind of you, Vanadir.¡±

    As Vanadir cut off the connection between the two of them, he could not help but let out a lightugh. As for Dane, who did not know of the conversation between the Ninth Prince and Griselle, he had a feeling that something bad might happen to himter on.

    Eventually, the three of them finally arrived at the entrance of the Astelia family household. Surprisingly, almost all of the people that lived in the household were standing in front of them, gazing at the three with curious and surprised expressions. Knowing what she had to do, Griselle then stepped forward and cleared her throat, attracting the attention of everyone before saying.

    ¡°From this day forth until the end of the war for the throne, I, Griselle Astelia of the Astelia family, shall be a part of the Ninth Prince¡¯s team. Under the rules of the family, once a family member of the Astelia family decides to side with a member of royalty, they would side with them until the end, so I would like everyone to deny all requests of entering another prince¡¯s team.¡±

    After Griselle was finished with what she had to say, all of the people in front of them lightly nodded in response to her words as it was indeed part of their rules. Of course, there were a few that could not help but have unsightly expressions as they were going to use this chance to side themselves with one of the princes and obtain an obscene amount of riches for doing so.

    Taking in a deep breath, she then looked at the person to his right, beckoning him to step forward as she continued, ¡°To officiate this matter, I would like Prince Vanadir Seraph to swear an oath in front of everyone here.¡±

    ¡°What?¡± Being made to swear an oath out of the blue, Vanadir could not help but feel perplexed until Griselle leaned into his ear and whispered, ¡°Just say that you¡¯ll protect the Astelia family from any harm and that you wouldn¡¯t let us lead to downfall or whatever. As long as it has something to do with the family, they¡¯ll definitely ept.¡±

    ¡°Haah¡­if you say so.¡± Letting out a light sigh only he could hear, Vanadir stepped in front of Griselle and mustered the most domineering voice he could force out. Taking in a deep breath, he then shouted, ¡°I, Prince Vanadir Seraph, shall make sure that Griselle Astelia shall be well taken care of during the duration she¡¯s in the kingdom. I will also make sure that her family would be protected from as much external entities as possible, while also giving them ess to the contacts that I have in the economic sector to make their businesses prosper. From this day forth, Griselle Astelia is now officially a part of my, Vanadir Seraph¡¯s team.¡±

    Woooohh!

    After Vanadir was finished with the oath he came up with on the spot, a wave of cheers and apuse came from the people in front of them as they were d that the Ninth Prince would be supporting them until the war for the throne was finished. As for Dane, who listened to the oath, he could not help but scratch his head before sending a strand of energy towards him as he said, ¡°Your Highness, you do know you have to keep your words, right?¡±

    ¡°The sacrifices I have to make being a prince,¡± Vanadir let out a sigh as he replied. He then added, ¡°Once we get back to the pavilion, give Griselle a list of my contacts. Of course, make sure that the list goes through me first, lest we want to her to find some contacts she wouldn¡¯t want to see.¡±

    ¡°As you wish, Your Highness.¡± Dane lightly nodded before cutting off the connection between them. He then went ahead and grabbed tworge mana stones from a rift he opened before clutching them with both hands. After that, he urged the Ninth Prince and Griselle toe closer to him as a magic circle soon appeared on where they were standing. In less than an instant, the three of them had disappeared from the sight of the people from the Astelia family as they made their way to Vanadir¡¯s pavilion.

    ¡­

    XXXX Continent, Seraph Kingdom, at Vanadir¡¯s pavilion.

    ¡°Is it possible for you to apany me when we¡¯re free, Dane? I have a few ces in mind that I want to go to,¡± Griselle said to Dane, who was beside her as they got closer and closer to Vanadir¡¯s pavilion. In response, Dane¡¯s mouth twitched before lightly smiling as he responded, ¡°I¡¯ll tell you when I¡¯m free, Lady Griselle. As you know, I¡¯m an Instructor of the Arcana Tower, so I can¡¯t just go with you on a whim.¡±

    ¡°I see¡­¡± Griselle said in response, slightly pouting her lips out in disappointment. Noticing this, Dane could not help but let out a sigh as he knew that he would have to ede to her requests. As for Vanadir, who was behind them all this time, he inwardly let outughter as the situation in front of him was just too hrious for him. Nevertheless, nothing happened after that, arriving in front of the Ninth Prince¡¯s pavilion a couple of minutester.

    Naturally, the three of them made their way to the guest room since that was the best ce to entertain the members of his new team. But just as they arrived, the three of them could not help but notice a ck-haired woman sipping on a cup of hot chocte as she satzily on one of the sofas. Recalling the other members on Vanadir¡¯s team, this woman was none other than Valentia, the only healer Vanadir had on his team for now.

    ¡°Oh, d to see you two back.¡± Valentia lightly smiled as she ced her cup of hot chocte down on the coffee table. Just as she was about to stand up and bow in front of Vanadir as a way to keep up formalities, she then noticed the silver-haired woman beside them, prompting her to let out an excited shriek as she dashed towards her and said, ¡°Griselle, I wasn¡¯t expecting to see you here!¡±

    ¡°Valentia?!¡± Griselle, who saw Valentia getting closer to her, got excited as well as she opened up her arms in order to prepare for a tight embrace. While the two of them were in a tight embrace, Vanadir could not help but scratch his head, realizing that the two knew each other from how they reacted.

    ¡°Valentia, you should¡¯ve told me that you knew Griselle,¡± Vanadir said with a light sigh. ¡°If you did, then we wouldn¡¯t have stayed there for over a day.¡±

    ¡°Well, you didn¡¯t bother telling me that you were actually going to go rope Griselle into your team,¡± Valentia looked at Vanadir and replied, maintaining a tight embrace with Griselle as the two haven¡¯t met each other in so long. Although it may not look like it, with Vanadir being Valentia¡¯s cousin and Griselle¡¯s childhood friend, it was no surprise that the two knew each other and have even kept in touch.

    Fortunately, after some time, the two of them released each other from their embrace, letting out a light chuckle as they recalled what they used to do back in the past. Seeing that the two seemed to be finished catching up on old times, Vanadir then called the attention of the three as he said, ¡°Since the four of us are here, how about we bring in the fifth member of the team and hold our first official meeting?¡±

    ¡°Dane, is it fine if you teleport Erea here?¡± he then looked at Dane and asked, to which Dane replied with a light smile, ¡°It¡¯ll be my pleasure, Your Highness.¡±

    Whoosh!

    And just like that, Dane disappeared from their sights, leaving Vanadir, Valentia, and Griselle alone. Not knowing who this Erea was, Griselle decided to ask Valentia about it, saying, ¡°Who¡¯s this Erea Vanadir¡¯s talking about?¡±

    With a light giggle, Valentia replied, ¡°She¡¯s a cutie, that¡¯s for sure. Not only that, but she¡¯s also an incredibly talented mage. Will you believe if she¡¯s already a Rank 3 ss wielder at the age of 15?¡±

    ¡°Seriously? Rank 3 at the age of 15? That¡¯s faster than both me and you,¡± Griselle said in response to her words before looking at the man beside them and continuing with a grin, ¡°And definitely tons of times faster than our Ninth Prince right here.¡±

    Vanadir could not help but loudly cough in response as he let out an awkward chuckle. He then said in response to Griselle¡¯s words, ¡°I¡¯m just making sure that my foundation is incredibly solid. Before the war for the throne starts, I¡¯m sure you guys will be surprised to see me at the same rank you two have right now.¡±

    ¡°Yeah, yeah, whatever, Vanadir,¡± Valentia replied to Vanadir¡¯s words before letting out a peal ofughter. Soon after, Griselle let out someughter as well, before being followed up by Vanadir. Seeing that it would take some time for Dane to bring Erea to where they were, they decided to catch up a bit more on their pasts, taking this time to clear up some past problems while reminiscing some of the good memories they made.

    ¡­

    Eventually, after half an hour passed since Dane left the Ninth Prince¡¯s pavilion, the sound of wind blowing throughout the surroundings spread throughout the room as two silhouettes appeared near the entrance of the pavilion. These two were none other than Dane and Erea.

    Noticing that Vanadir and the other two were looking at them, Dane let out an awkward chuckle as he said, ¡°I apologize for taking quite some time, Your Highness. Erea was too engrossed in learning a new spell, so I waited for her to finish before asking her toe with me.¡±

    He then tapped on Erea¡¯s back, which prompted Erea to respectfully bow in front of Vanadir and say, ¡°I sincerely apologize, Your Highness.¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t worry about it, Erea,¡± Vanadir said in response to her apology, lightly grinning. He then pointed to the two girls beside her and said, ¡°Come and introduce yourself to the two new members of the team, Erea. Get to know each other.¡±

    Lightly nodding in response to Vanadir¡¯s words, Erea was about to do what she was asked, only to be smothered in the feeling of softness from the front soon after as Griselle embraced her while saying, ¡°She¡¯s so cute!¡±

    She then looked at Dane and asked, ¡°Where did you find such a cute girl like this?¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t know if that¡¯s the appropriate question to ask, Lady Griselle,¡± Dane said in response, scratching his head. Seeing that it would probably take some time for Erea to introduce herself to Griselle, and since Valentia already knew Erea, Vanadir decided that it was the right time to bring up a certain topic.

    Standing up as he let out a light cough to catch their attention, he then told them, ¡°Since the main members of the team are currently here, it¡¯s time for us talk about something important.¡±

    Sensing the seriousness of Vanadir¡¯s tone, the others went silent as they listened to what he had to say. With all of them focused on his next words, he then took in a deep breath before saying, ¡°We need toe up with a name for our team.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s all?¡± Valentia scratched her head, wondering if Vanadir was ying a joke on them. Surprisingly, Vanadir nodded with sincerity as he replied, ¡°I mean it. Sure, you canugh at me behind my back for bringing this up, but would you guys really want to fight under a team that has a nd name?¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t really mind nd team names, Your Highness,¡± Dane responded before looking at the other three. He then continued, ¡°I may not be sure about the others though.¡±

    ¡°Well, whatever name works with me, as long as it doesn¡¯t sound stupid,¡± Valentia said after Dane was finished talking, to which Griselle continued, ¡°Same here.¡±

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡± As Vanadir lightly nodded at their words, he then pondered over a good team name they could use. Fortunately, it did not take long for him toe up with a good name as he looked at them with a grin and asked, ¡°How about we call our team the Vanadir Coalition?¡±

    ¡°Too self-centered,¡± Valentia hastily replied.

    ¡°Definitely selfish,¡± Griselle followed up.

    ¡°I think it embodies the whole purpose of the team. I think it¡¯s nice.¡± Surprisingly, Erea was not against the name. In fact, she was even fine with that being the name of the team.

    ¡°Ah! If Erea thinks it¡¯s nice then I¡¯m fine with it!¡± Listening to Erea¡¯s response, Valentia hastily changed her opinion, which was followed up by Griselle saying, ¡°Same here!¡±

    At this point, Vanadir could not help but look at Erea with an expression of gratitude, though in actuality, Erea couldn¡¯t care less about the name of the team. With the name finalized, Vanadir then announced, ¡°From now on, the Ninth Prince¡¯s team shall now be called the Vanadir Coalition!¡±

    ¡°¡­¡±

    ¡°¡­okay, now I see why you guys said it sounded selfish.¡±

 Chapter 333: Confrontation

    Chapter 333: Confrontation

    ¡°Eleanor?¡± Argentum looked at the fiery silhouette in front of him and asked, his tone that of surprise. He then continued, ¡°What are you doing here?¡±

    Unfortunately for him, the fiery silhouette did not respond to him, only focusing its sense of vision at him in silence. Noticing this, Argentum decided to be silent as well, knowing why Eleanor was acting like that in front of him. Nevertheless, he could not help but mutter to himself inwardly, ¡°Just because I went to an inheritance that she did not want me to go, doesn¡¯t mean that she¡¯d hate me to the bones, right?¡±

    Fortunately, his mutters were correct as the fiery silhouette in front of him let out a light sigh as the palpable aura of anger surrounding her had gradually disappeared. She then looked at Argentum and said, ¡°Although you did notheed my words and went to the inheritance I told you to not go to, I¡¯m actually not mad at you.¡±

    ¡°In fact, the one I should be mad at is someone else,¡± she continued, trying to hide the fact that she asked Felix to follow Argentum in order to find out which inheritance he was going to. In response to her words, Argentum let out a light yet awkward chuckle, knowing who she was talking about.

    As for the being that was mentioned by Eleanor, he was currently concocting another batch of Heaven¡¯s Water Potions as he needed a lot to reach the same level of understanding as Argentum. Nevertheless, he felt his body be colder all of a sudden, prompting him to ask himself, ¡°I wonder who¡¯s talking about me?¡±

    Pondering as to whether he should apologize or not, Argentum stood up and looked at Eleanor in silence for a bit. After a while, he decided to ask her about the reason why she was here instead, thinking that she was also thinking that he was not at fault in this case. In the first ce, he did not have any ties to the Desecrated Inheritance, unlike Eleanor, who had known the owner of the ce for an incredibly long time.

    ¡°So, what brings you here, Eleanor?¡± Argentum changed the topic without hesitation, removing the awkward yet tense atmosphere surrounding them. Hearing his question, Eleanor lightly thanked him inwardly as she replied with a light chuckle, ¡°Well, there¡¯s no other reason for me toe here other than you, silly.¡±

    Soon after, a hint of mischievous air surrounded her as she continued, ¡°Then again, how many times have I told you to not go to this ce before you left my inheritance? At that point, I should¡¯ve swayed your decisions by quite a considerable amount, no?¡±

    Just as Argentum was about to answer that he had decided to go this inheritance for a certain reason, another being appeared in the room the two were in, prompting Argentum to look at the neer with surprise. On the other hand, the neer looked at Argentum for a bit, a surprised expression on her face before looking at Eleanor and saying, ¡°I had my doubts when you were talking about this guy back in my inheritance¡­but to think that you weren¡¯t lying¡­¡±

    ¡°You think I¡¯d lie to you about something like this?¡± Eleanor could not help but let out a proud cackle as she ced her arm over Argentum¡¯s shoulder. She was then about to say something else to boost her ego, but then remembered all of the times she spent with the neer, prompting her to let out a shy chuckle as she continued, ¡°Well, sure. I lie to you quite often, but this is one of those times that I¡¯m not.¡±

    ¡°Uh¡­Eleanor, may I ask who this being is?¡± Argentum, clueless to what was happening, could not help but look at Eleanor beside him and ask. In response, Eleanor released him from her grasp as she extended one of her arms to point at the neer before introducing her.

    ¡°Argentum, meet Rosalia. She¡¯s the owner of the Supreme Terra Firma Inheritance I was rmending you to go to.¡±

    After saying that, she then looked at the neer before extending her arm towards Argentum as she continued, ¡°Rosalia, meet Argentum. She¡¯s the being I was talking about that¡¯s stronger than your Argento. From the aura he¡¯s emanating, you can already tell how strong he is, right?¡±

    ¡°Definitely,¡± Rosalia said as she lightly nodded. With an examining gaze, she looked at Argentum from head to toe before introducing herself to Argentum with a light smile as she said, ¡°Pleased to make your acquaintance, Argentum. Although I don¡¯t know why you chose the Desecrated Inheritance instead of my inheritance ording to the conversation between you and Eleanor, if you ever doe to the Supreme Terra Firma Inheritance, I¡¯ll make sure to treat you well.¡±

    Since Rosalia was being kind to him, Argentum responded to her in a respectful tone, ¡°Nice to meet you as well, er¡­¡±

    ¡°Rosalia is fine with me,¡± Rosalia hastily responded, seeing how Argentum was pondering as to what to call her.

    Radiating an aura of gratitude and slight glee, Argentum continued with his words as he said, ¡°Ah. Nice to meet you as well, Rosalia. I have my reasons foring to the Desecrated Inheritance, though I must admit that the Supreme Terra Firma Inheritance was one of the choices I had in my head when deciding on an Earth-based inheritance to head towards. Once I¡¯m done with what I have to do here and somewhere else, I¡¯ll definitely make sure to pay a visit to your inheritance.¡±

    Of course, he said this to please Rosalia and Eleanor as he did not even consider heading to the Supreme Terra Firma Inheritance in the first ce. With Aurus¡¯ time of awakeninging closer and closer, he decided that it would be better for him to not go that far. If he heeded Eleanor¡¯s rmendation and went to the Supreme Terra Firma Inheritance instead of this one, by the time he got back to the Verdant Blossom Branch Alliance, Aurus would have been already awake for a few days by then.

    Well, if he asked for either Eleanor or Felix¡¯s help in getting to and heading back from the Supreme Terra Firma Inheritance, then it would take around the same amount of time he took to get to this inheritance¡­but he had his own pride.

    ¡°So¡­is there any other reason why you came to this inheritance other than to look for me, Eleanor?¡± Argentum decided to ask since he had a hunch that Eleanor surely did note for him alone. In response, Eleanor let out a giggle as she replied, ¡°Was it that obvious?¡±

    Whoosh!

    In an instant, the previously palpable aura of anger surrounding her a while ago had nowe back, this time with greater intensity. At this point, it could even be said that the whole room the three were in was now colored in the shade of crimson red from the sheer intensity of the aura surrounding Eleanor. Fortunately, Eleanor had total control over this aura, manipting it to dodge Rosalia and Argentum from its effects, though the two could not help but let out expressions of shock after feeling it.

    ¡°Melzarin, you bettere here in three seconds, or else I won¡¯t hesitate to kill to see you,¡± she said not long after, prompting Argentum to ponder on who this Melzarin guy is. Fortunately, it did not take long for Argentum to obtain his answer as another entity appeared behind the three in the form of a mass of Earth energy particles.

    Swoosh¡­swoosh¡­

    This mass of Earth energy particles gradually coalesced into the figure of a skeleton, with the particles being reced with what seemed to be a dark type of energy. Utilizing his enhanced senses, Argentum knew that this energy came from a life of ughter, referencing the various types of energy Aurus hade across back in ISE.

    Not long after, two dark brown mes appeared in this dark skeleton¡¯s eye sockets as it stood up. It then looked at the three before saying in the most imposing tone it could muster, ¡°You¡¯ve called me¡­¡±

    ¡°Eleanor.¡±

    ¡°Wait a second¡­¡± Listening to the voice that the skeleton used, Argentum could not help but feel that it was a bit familiar. In less than an instant, he finally pieced it together, prompting him to point at the skeleton with surprise and shout, ¡°Ah! You¡¯re the disembodied voice I was talking to while I was undergoing through the trials!¡±

    ¡°Indeed, I am,¡± the skeleton deviated his attention from Eleanor to Argentum before responding with a light nod. He then continued, ¡°You should be grateful that this great being has decided to be your guide in this inheritance. If not for your talent, I would¡¯ve delegated this job to someone else.¡±

    ¡°Eh?¡± Argentum scratched his head as he listened to the skeleton¡¯s words, wondering why its personality had undergone a full 180. He remembered quite well that the disembodied voice he was talking to was not arrogant at all, unlike the skeleton in front of him that exuded arrogance. In fact, he even felt a bit of favoritism from the disembodied voice while he was undergoing the trials. In his mind, he could not help but think to himself, ¡®Is this really the same guy I was talking to a while ago?¡¯

    Just as the skeleton was about to redirect its attention back to Eleanor, Rosalia decided to greet him as she said, ¡°It¡¯s been a while since we met, Melzarin. How have you been?¡±

    In response, Melzarin looked at Rosalia for a bit before looking back at Eleanor as he perfunctorily responded, ¡°Fine.¡±

    ¡°I see.¡± Rosalia lightly nodded with a smile as she allowed Melzarin to do whatever he wanted. As for Argentum, who looked at this by the side, noticed that the skeleton¡¯s arrogance slightly disappeared when it responded to Rosalia, though it came back when he focused back at Eleanor. At this point, he knew that something weird was going on, recalling that he had this feeling ever since Eleanor told him to not go to the Desecrated Inheritance.

    ¡°Why did you call me out here, Eleanor?¡± Melzarin looked at Eleanor and asked in an arrogant tone. ¡°I¡¯m a busy guy, so you better get straight to the point.¡±

    ¡°Oh, I¡¯ll definitely get straight to the point,¡± Eleanor responded in a slightly aggressive tone.

    ¡°You.¡± She pointed at Melzarin.

    ¡°Me.¡± She then pointed at herself.

    ¡°Let¡¯s settle this once and for all with a fight,¡± she continued. Hearing this, Argentum could not help but wonder how Eleanor and the skeleton had gotten to this point, though he had a feeling that he knew this already. Nevertheless, he felt that this knowledge was hidden behind a thin curtain. On the other hand, Melzarin looked at Eleanor and solemnly said after a few seconds of silence, ¡°Very well. If you want to get beaten up by me yet again, then I shall entertain you.¡±

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    At the very instant Melzarin was finished talking, he instantly transformed into a mass of Earth energy particles, disappearing from the room the three were at. Soon after, Eleanor did the same thing, transforming into a mass of Fire energy particles before disappearing from the room as well, leaving Rosalia and Argentum alone.

    ¡°Aren¡¯t you curious to know who the winner will be?¡± Rosalia looked at Argentum slightly far away from her and asked. In response, Argentum shook his head as he replied, ¡°From the aura they¡¯re exuding, I¡¯m certain that the skeleton would just toy around with Eleanor.¡±

    ¡°What I don¡¯t get is the attitude of the skeleton,¡± he continued, prompting Rosalia to let out a light chuckle. Hearing her chuckle, Argentum looked at her and asked, ¡°What¡¯s so funny?¡±

    ¡°You thinking into it,¡± Rosalia replied to his question before saying, ¡°In any case, I have a feeling you already know what¡¯s probably going on between the two, though you¡¯re just not that certain yet. Do you feel like the answer is at the tip of your tongue but you don¡¯t know what it is?¡±

    ¡°Yeah?¡± Argentum nodded, wondering what Rosalia was getting to. Seeing how eager he was to know more about the current situation, Rosalia pondered for a bit before telling him, ¡°What if I told you that the skeleton we just met was the owner of the Desecrated Inheritance? Would that allow you to be certain of your answer?¡±

    Bang.

    As if an explosive had gone off in his mind, the various thoughts he had regarding the situation just now had connected all at once, leading him to a very solid conclusion. Nevertheless, he wanted to make sure that Rosalia¡¯s words were true, prompting him to ask, ¡°Is that skeleton really the owner of the Desecrated Inheritance? Is that skeleton¡­Lord Calcifas?¡±

    ¡°Sure, let¡¯s go with Lord Calcifas,¡± Rosalia said as she nodded. ¡°Of course, Lord Calcifas is his alias. His real name is Melzarin Vadicarde, also known as the Lord of Earth and Ruin. Just like you and Eleanor, he¡¯s also a Pseudo-Animate, but at an incredibly high level.¡±

    ¡°Is that enough for you to not doubt my words?¡± she continued her words with a question, knowing what was going on with Argentum¡¯s mind. Argentum nodded in response to her question as he said, ¡°Although I¡¯ll still have to ask another being toe here to validate my theories, I¡¯m about 90 to 95% sure of what¡¯s going on.¡±

    With that, he could not help but let out a sigh as he looked at Rosalia and asked, ¡°Is Melzarin in love with Eleanor?¡±

    ¡°Yep.¡± Rosalia nodded with a giggle.

    In response, Argentum scratched his head as he muttered, ¡°What a stupid way to make sure that the one you¡¯re in love with would remember you.¡±

    Rosalia heard his words and replied, ¡°Well, if it¡¯s stupid but it works, then it ain¡¯t stupid.¡±

    ¡°Well¡­true.¡±

 Chapter 334: A Somewhat Covert Operation

    Chapter 334: A Somewhat Covert Operation

    ¡°Anyways, shouldn¡¯t we stop them from actually fighting each other?¡± Argentum then asked Rosalia, to which thetter responded with a question of her own. ¡°Why should we? They¡¯re both incredibly strong Pseudo-Animates, and I¡¯m sure Eleanor wants to let out a bit of steam. They¡¯ll be fine.¡±

    ¡°I know that, but like¡­¡± Although he knew very well that Rosalia¡¯s words made sense, he just could not help but want to help Melzarin out in his adventure to win Eleanor¡¯s heart after realizing why he was acting like that. Just as Argentum was about to say that he wanted to help Melzarin out, Rosalia let out a light chuckle as she asked him, ¡°You want to help Melzarin out, huh? Is the reason why you don¡¯t want the fight between them to happen?¡±

    ¡°Well, yes¡­¡± Argentum replied with an awkward chuckle, though he wondered how Rosalia seemed to be reading his mind beforehand. In any case, they were now on the same page, so he was certain that Rosalia would help him out in whatever he wanted to do. Nevertheless, he could not help but wonder how it hade to this point, recalling that he was just doing his trials a while ago. Thinking about it, he could not help but think that he wouldn¡¯t even think of romance in his past life, or to be more exact, Aurus in his past life.

    ¡°Eh, it¡¯s not like it would hurt me in any way,¡± he soon muttered to himself before looking at Rosalia and asking, ¡°Before we help them out, might I ask how Melzarin had turned out like that? From his interaction with you and me a while ago, I could feel that his arrogance was somewhat¡­fake.¡±

    ¡°Oh? This is just the first time you¡¯ve met him, but you¡¯ve already noticed that?¡± Rosalia raised her eyebrows in slight surprise, not expecting Argentum to notice that. Soon after, a light smile could be seen on her face as she continued, ¡°I guess that¡¯s something to be expected from someone who¡¯s aiming to achieve Lesser Origin.¡±

    ¡°In any case, you¡¯re correct. Melzarin wasn¡¯t like that in the first ce. I¡¯m sure you were confused after you noticed the drastic change in his personality while you were talking to him through the mind and while talking to him a while ago,¡± she responded to his question before adding, ¡°Melzarin¡¯s a pretty mild-mannered guy. Although he¡¯s a bit calctive at times, he¡¯s pretty friendly. In fact, before the shift in his personality happened, he and Eleanor were actually good friends.¡±

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡± Argentum uttered in response to Rosalia¡¯s words, lightly nodding in the process. Not long after, he then asked her, ¡°So, what triggered the shift in his personality?¡±

    In response, Rosalia let out a slightly awkward change as she replied, ¡°Ironically, Eleanor.¡±

    ¡°Huh?¡± Not expecting that answer, Argentum was left speechless for a bit as he tried to wrap his head around why Eleanor would be the reason for the shift in his personality. Considering his original personality, Argentum thought that Melzarin would woo her through kindness and perseverance, not through arrogance and pride like what he was currently doing. With that in mind, he then focused his sense of vision towards Rosalia, getting a hunch that she may have something to do it.

    As if she was reading his mind, Rosalia scratched her head and said, ¡°I have a feeling why you¡¯re looking at me like that, and I¡¯ll just say that it might have something to do with me¡­¡±

    ¡°¡­and a being named Felix if you know him,¡± she continued, eliciting Argentum to let out a sigh as he said, ¡°Felix is also at fault here?¡±

    ¡°You know Felix?¡± Rosalia asked, to which Argentum replied with a nod as he said, ¡°Yeah. His inheritance is where I got my affinity with the Water element from.¡±

    ¡°I guess that makes exining things easier from a certain perspective,¡± Rosalia said in response to her words as she shrugged her shoulders with a sigh. She then pressed on her temples for a bit as she recalled the incident where Melzarin¡¯s personality had shifted. Fortunately, it did not take a long time for Rosalia to recall everything as she took in a deep breath.

    She then looked at him and started to narrate what had happened in the past.

    ¡°Well, the start of his change dates to about 10 to 15 thousand years ago. It was a time when the continent we¡¯re in only had one kingdom, and there were many skirmishes regarding territories for inheritances. Of course, me, Melzarin, Eleanor, and Felix were all owners of inheritances, so that meant we were fighting for territories as well. Since we were rtively weakerpared to the other inheritance owners, we decided to band together, considering that we were all at the same level of power. Well, to be more exact, four more people joined us in this party, but only us four had something to do with Melzarin¡¯s change.¡±

    ¡°Long story short, we were able to obtain a certain chunk of the continent¡¯s territory for ourselves, transforming it into the ce where our inheritances would reside. Although mine was situated at the south of the continent, for us at the time, or even now, it wasn¡¯t a problem to traverse the distance within minutes. Oh wait, I¡¯m going off track here.¡±

    Clearing her throat, she continued, ¡°Anyways, now that we had obtain territories for our inheritances, we decided to celebrate, holding a banquet at Eleanor¡¯s territory since it was the closest when considering the locations of our inheritance territories. We all had a fun time during that banquet, eating and drinking to our heart¡¯s delight until¡­¡±

    ¡°While most of us were hammered from the drinks, though not literally since we could control the energy in our bodies to purge away the effects of alcohol, Melzarin decided toe to me and Felix, asking for tips on how he could win Eleanor¡¯s heart.¡±

    At this point, Argentum had a bad feeling regarding the continuation of the story. Nevertheless, he remained silent as he started to circte energy around his body. As for Rosalia, she continued with her story after taking a deep breath. ¡°Although we knew that Melzarin¡¯s feelings for Eleanor were sincere, we decided to mess with him, telling him that the best way to win her heart was to strut his stuff as much as possible. Brag as much as possible, make her feel inferior, and so on, and so forth.¡±

    She then let out a sigh as she added, ¡°Of course, we said it in the most sarcastic manner we could, but who knew he¡¯d listen to us and actually do it? Did he not remove the effects of alcohol in his body before asking us? If so, then that might probably be why he¡¯s still doing it¡­¡±

    ¡°Ah, I¡¯ve gotten off track again,¡± she then said, only to look at Argentum who was looking at her with a slightly disappointed aura surrounding him. With an awkward chuckle, she then told him, ¡°We did say it in the most sarcastic manner possible. It¡¯s not our fault that he heeded our words.¡±

    ¡°As someone who¡¯s hundreds or thousands of times weaker than you four, why do I feel like you¡¯re acting like children?¡± Argentum could not help but say amidst a long sigh. In response, Rosalia shrugged her shoulders as she said, ¡°Gotta let loose every once in a while. The saying ¡®with great poweres great responsibility¡¯ is real for us, and it¡¯s incredibly stressful.¡±

    ¡°Although I want to say more things about you four, let¡¯s focus on what¡¯s important for now,¡± Argentum said in response to Rosalia¡¯s words before continuing, ¡°Would you help me out in this¡­uh¡­whatever it is?¡±

    ¡°Even though I¡¯m somewhat curious as to why you¡¯d help someone you¡¯ve just met for the first time, sure. I¡¯m all ears,¡± Rosalia lightly grinned as she replied to his question. With her approval, Argentum went ahead and channeled all of the energy he was circting inside his body towards a certain point as a connection was instantly formed between him and another being.

    ¡°Oh? Argentum? Why¡¯d you contact me?¡± Since Eleanor was already at the Desecrated Inheritance, then it was a no-brainer that he had contacted Felix, who was currently in his inheritance, concocting a batch of Heaven¡¯s Water Potions.

    Taking in a deep breath, Argentum pondered over what he should say for a bit, responding not long after, ¡°Eleanor¡¯s in the Desecrated Inheritance. She already met up with Melzarin.¡±

    Crash!

    At the very instant Argentum was finished talking, the sound of ss breaking could be heard from Felix¡¯s side, which originated from the ss sk he dropped. Imitating the sound of one clearing their throat, Felix then responded to Argentum¡¯s words in the most serious tone as the connection between them was cut off.

    ¡°I¡¯ll be there in a few seconds.¡±

    Whoosh!

    Not even an instant after the connection between Argentum and Felix was cut off, a blue rift appeared beside Argentum, revealing an entity made out of dark blue energy stepping out of it. Of course, this being was none other than Felix.

    Surprised that Felix had appeared beside him, Argentum was about to ask him how he was able to do that. Fortunately, Felix seemed to be reading his mind as he let out a light chuckle and replied, ¡°I used the contract between us as a location point. I then used my teleportation skill and well¡­I¡¯m here.¡±

    After quelling Argentum¡¯s curiosity, Felix then noticed that another being was with them, prompting him to look at her and let out a loud cackle as he said, ¡°Although it¡¯s been quite some time since we¡¯ve met, I wasn¡¯t expecting us to meet up like this.¡±

    ¡°Neither was I, really,¡± Rosalia let out augh in response as she replied. After letting out a bit ofughter, Felix then took on a serious facade as he asked Rosalia, ¡°How long has it been since Melzarin and Eleanor started fighting?¡±

    ¡°Around ten minutes or so, considering the fact that I¡¯ve narrated the reason why Melzarin is acting like that to Argentum right here,¡± Rosalia said as she pointed at Argentum. In response, Felix lightly nodded as he uttered, ¡°Although I¡¯m sure that the area they¡¯re fighting in is more or less destroyed, there¡¯s still more than enough time for us to stop the fight.¡±

    ¡°I presume you two have decided to help Melzarin out?¡± he then asked, looking at both Argentum and Rosalia. Argentum then nodded as he said, ¡°I have a n to help Melzarin out in winning Eleanor¡¯s heart once and for all, though I¡¯ll need the help of you two to do it.¡±

    ¡°I got some questions to ask you right now, but let¡¯s save that forter,¡± Felix said in response, letting out a yful chuckle as an aura of excitement surrounded him. ¡°In any case, it¡¯s been a while since I¡¯ve done something like this.¡±

    ¡°Rosalia, could you sense where they are?¡± Felix looked at Rosalia and asked, to which thetter responded by closing her eyes for a second before nodding. ¡°I can.¡±

    Soon, she did a few gestures with both of her hands as a great mass of Earth energy particles surrounded the three of them. Not long after, the mass of Earth energy particles disappeared from the room they were in, bringing them along as they soon appeared in a location outside the Desecrated Inheritance.

    Swoosh!

    At a certain location, three silhouettes were being built from the ground up by Earth energy particles, with the Earth energy particles dissipating not long after to reveal Rosalia, Felix, and Argentum. After they had appeared in the area, they then utilized all of their investigative skills to find where Melzarin and Eleanor were fighting.

    Unsurprisingly, it did not even take a minute for them to find their location as the location they appeared in was at the fringe of what seemed to be an insanelyrge crater spanning a couple of kilometers. The surface of this crater was covered in what seemed to be scorched ground and soot, letting the three know that they were in the right ce.

    Without hesitation, Rosalia started to head towards the center of the crater at the fastest speed she could muster. As for Felix, he went ahead and wrapped Argentum in his energy before carrying him along at the fastest speed he could achieve. Inferring from Rosalia and Felix¡¯s words that they were fighting against time, he went ahead and cast all of the movement speed buffs he had on both Rosalia and Felix. He even cast [Symbiotic Resistance] on them to increase their movement speed even further.

    After being applied with the movement speed buffs, the three did not take long to arrive at the center of the crater, though both Felix and Rosalia could not help but look at Argentum as if he was a monster. Rosalia was even more shocked since she did not know anything about Argentum other than the fact that he was powerful for his level ording to Eleanor. This small thing he had done was enough for her opinion of him to rise to a considerable level, though she ced this thought at the back of her head for now.

    Now that the three of them were above the center of the crater, they could now see both Melzarin and Eleanor standing their ground. Melzarin was currently covered in a vast array of shields made out of earth while wearing a suit of armor also made out of earth, while Eleanor currently looked like the matriarch of mes as dark crimson red mes covered her body in a dress-like form. Multiple wisps of dark crimson red mes could be seen hovering around her as well.

    Seeing Eleanor¡¯s current state, Felix could not help but let out a sigh of relief as he said, ¡°Phew. Eleanor hasn¡¯t gone berserk yet. We¡¯ve definitely made it in time.¡±

    ¡°Anyways, Argentum. What should we do?¡± he then looked at Argentum beside him and asked.

    Although he was curious as to what Felix meant by Eleanor going berserk, he ced the thought at the back of his head as he knew what he had to focus on for now. Sending strands of energy to both Rosalia and Felix, he then told them.

    ¡°You two, go ahead and try to calm Eleanor down.¡±

    ¡°As for me¡­¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll just have a small chat with Melzarin.¡±

 Chapter 335: The Sun Against the Land and Seas

    Chapter 335: The Sun Against the Land and Seas

    Listening to what Argentum told them, Rosalia and Felix could not help but look at each other, wondering what he was going to say to Melzarin. Nevertheless, they knew that the more unstable variable in this mess was Eleanor, so they agreed with his ns and headed to where Eleanor was. On the other hand, Argentum used all of the strength in his body to separate himself from Felix at high speeds, making sure to head to where Melzarin is.

    Bang! Bang!

    With Felix and Rosalia being incredibly strong and Argentum using the element of free fall to his advantage, the three of themnded in the areas they wanted to go at nearly the same time, confusing the two that were currently fighting.

    ¡°What the hell are you two doing here?!¡± With Felix and Rosalia in front of her all of a sudden, Eleanor¡¯s fiery aura gradually subsided as she asked. Not long after, she looked over at Melzarin¡¯s side, noticing that Argentum was in front of him. Noticing this, she had an idea as to what was going on.

    ¡°Eleanor, we just want you to stop fighting against Melzarin for a bit,¡± Felix said in response as arge blob of water coalesced around his body, forming ayer of water armor. Rosalia continued where Felix left off, her skin giving off a light brown sheen as she said, ¡°We¡¯re sisters, right? I know you hate Melzarin to the bones, but can you listen to us for a while?¡±

    ¡°So, I take it that you two are on Melzarin¡¯s side?¡± Unlike what they were expecting, Eleanor¡¯s fiery aura intensified after listening to their words, thinking that the two wanted to help Melzarin aplish whatever nefarious deed he wanted to do to her. In response, Rosalia hastily replied as she waved her hands in disapproval, ¡°That¡¯s not it! We just want you to¡ª!¡±

    Fwoosh!

    Before Rosalia could even finish her response, Eleanor dashed towards the two without hesitation as arge fireball was conjured over her right palm. Aiming to throw the fireball at point nk range, she then said with a hint of fury, ¡°Your excuses mean nothing to me. If you want me to listen to you, then beat me first!¡±

    ¡°[Ignitio Overdrive: Hellbound Chiliocosm]!¡±

    Just as Rosalia was about to retaliate against Eleanor¡¯s attack with a defensive move, Felix hastily appeared in front of her as a spear made out of water appeared in his hands. Summoning all of the energy inside his body towards the tip of his spear, he shouted at Rosalia, ¡°Enhance mybat power as much as possible!¡±

    ¡°[World Rejuvenation Art: Boundless Proliferation]!¡± Without even thinking twice, Rosalia listened to Felix¡¯s words and used the strongest enhancement skill she had in his arsenal, instantly directing the power towards Felix. Feeling a massive surge in hisbat power, Felix then unhesitatingly shed with his spear in an X pattern, making sure that Eleanor¡¯s fireball would be affected.

    ¡°[Tsunami Piercer]!¡±

    Bang! Pssh!

    At the very instant the two attacks collided, a massive explosion urred on Eleanor¡¯s side, sending her flying a few meters away as she was unprepared for it. As for Felix and Rosalia, they hastily created a barrier in front of the explosion, removing their need of retreating a few meters back.

    Seeing that Eleanor was sent flying, the two looked at each other as they pondered as to whether or not they should get closer to her. Fortunately, that question was instead answered by Eleanor as she hastily got up, the mes around her gradually turning ck as the dress she was wearing had be more exquisite in design.

    Noticing this, Felix and Rosalia knew what was happening to her, prompting them to simultaneously let out a sigh as Felix looked at Rosalia and said, ¡°As the one nicknamed ¡®Mother of Earth¡¯, I¡¯ll leave it up to you to defend me from counterattacks, okay?¡±

    As the aura of earth surrounding her continued to solidify into ayer of heavy armor, Rosalia let out a light chuckle in response as she replied, ¡°Then I¡¯ll leave it up to you on the offensive, Grand Blue Master.¡±

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    Without giving Eleanor time to think, the two of them dashed closer to Eleanor, utilizing the buffs Argentum had applied to them beforehand. In response, Eleanor hastily conjured an array of dark mes behind her, aiming to send it towards them in a barrage. Unfortunately for her, the two expected to see thating from her, with Rosalia concentrating a massive amount of Earth energy around Eleanor¡¯s feet before instantly solidifying it.

    ¡°[Mountain Bind]!¡±

    Whoosh!

    As if those dark mes were a facade, all of it had disappeared in an instant as Eleanor felt that her connection with the elements in surroundings was impaired. Try as she might, Eleanor could not even summon any mes at the moment to protect herself, to which Felix used to his advantage.

    Utilizing the spear he had conjured before, he channeled a great portion of energy towards it as a magic circle with a couple ofyers appeared in front of it. Soon after, he threw this spear towards Eleanor as the speed of the spear had intensified multiple times even though the distance between them wasn¡¯t enough to achieve such speeds.

    ¡°[Tsunami Piercer Variant: Raging Torrent]!¡±

    Fwoosh!

    At such a speed, it was highly unlikely for Eleanor to dodge the attack. But contrary to what they were expecting, a light chuckle came out of Eleanor¡¯s mouth as she manipted the dark mes on her dress to cover the spear, surprisingly corroding the energy forming the spear. Before it could even touch a single me on Eleanor, the spear had disintegrated to pieces, giving thetter the time to retaliate as the two were in great shock.

    Whoosh!

    Using the same method as before, Eleanor removed the shackles made of earth binding her, hastily distancing herself from the two as fast as possible as the mes making up her dress had undergone another transformation. If one looked closely, the dark mes now had a hint of white to them, giving off the feeling that if one touched even a small wisp of it, death would be their only oue.

    ¡°[Ignitio Overdrive: Eclipse me Form].¡±

    Within a few seconds, all of the mes making up Eleanor¡¯s dress had taken on a hint of white while the killing intent surrounding her had intensified to a greater degree. At this point, Felix and Eleanor knew that it was only a matter of time until Eleanor would go berserk.

    Psh! Psh! Psh!

    With the two still at a loss for words from what she had done, she once again summoned an array of mes behind her. This time, though, the array of mes had been sessfully created, coalescing into a vortex-like pattern before Eleanor shot it in the direction of the two.

    ¡°[Ignitio Overdrive: Hellbound Vortex ¡ª Eclipse]!¡±

    Swoosh!

    With the force behind the vortex of mesparable to the force behind Felix¡¯s previous spear, it wouldn¡¯t be a surprise if the two weren¡¯t able to defend against it, being blown tens of meters away from where they were. Fortunately, Rosalia hade in prepared, instantly activating a magic circle she had been conjuring behind the scenes to cover the two in multipleyers of defensive barriers.

    ¡°[World Protection Art: Myriad Devastation Barrier]!¡±

    Bang! Bang! Bang!

    With each me making up the vortex, ayer of the barriers protecting both Felix and Rosalia would be shaved off, prompting the two to redirect some of their energy to the magic circle powering the barriers. Thankfully, the two of them were able to defend against all of the mes making up the vortex.

    Unfortunately, the amount of energy inside their bodies were almost close to drying up, evident from theckluster sheen of their bodies. Nevertheless, they weren¡¯t about to admit defeat against Eleanor even though she was near her strongest form, which the two of them couldn¡¯t even beat back then.

    Squeezing out all of the energy inside his body, Felix then applied buffs on both of them that would increase their perception over surrounding energy, increasing their speed of energy regeneration. Of course, Eleanor wouldn¡¯t let them regenerate their energy, still thinking that the two were on Melzarin¡¯s side.

    Summoning all of the energy inside her body, Eleanor then used it to propel herself towards the two at breakneck speeds as two balls of dark-white mes appeared on her palms, mming it against each other without hesitation.

    ¡°[Ignitio Overdrive: Singrity Burst ¡ª Eclipse]!¡±

    Bang!

    With such an attack being made so close to the two, the barrier protecting him had all of itsyers ripped off, allowing the remaining force of the attack to send the two of them flying for over a hundred meters. On the other hand, Eleanor looked at them from afar with an unreadable expression, not allowing anyone to know what was going on inside her mind.

    Thud! Thud!

    Naturally, the two of them hastily got up on their feet when they crashed, knowing very well that Eleanor was still nning on attacking them. Nevertheless, they could not help but take in a deep breath of cold air when they could not help but think that Eleanor was still holding back on them back then.

    ¡°Does this mean that Eleanor is the strongest among all of us?¡± Rosalia could not help but mutter to herself, to which Felix responded with a light sigh, ¡°Isn¡¯t that obvious already?¡±

    At this point, the two of them felt like any attack they threw at her wouldn¡¯t even faze her the slightest bit. But just as they were about to tell Argentum that they weren¡¯t able to fulfill their part of the n, a massive surge of energy soon entered the bodies of the two, jolting them awake in surprise.

    In less than an instant, the two of them looked around their surroundings, wondering how their energy was replenished in such a short amount of time. It did not take long for them to find a dark skeleton wearing an armor of earth appear in front of them, as well as a humanoid figure made out of blue, brown, and green energy.

    ¡°Argentum has filled me on all of the details,¡± Melzarin looked at the dejected two and said in a slightly solemn tone. ¡°Although I¡¯m unsure as to whether I could defeat Eleanor at her strongest form if I was alone, I think we could definitely defeat her with us three working together and with Argentum buffing us up.¡±

    ¡°So, are you two up for round 2?¡± he asked the two, waiting for their answers. Scratching his head, Felix looked at Rosalia beside him, to which she only lightly nodded in response. Seeing this, Felix could not help but let out a long sigh.

    Although he was one of Eleanor¡¯s close friends, he did not want to admit that Eleanor was the strongest. Of course, he was sure that Rosalia did not want to admit defeat as well. With that in mind, the two used the energy they had received from the two and used it to increase their defensive and offensive properties to the maximum.

    Just as the two were about to ask Melzarin and Argentum about their next steps in this fight against Eleanor, a thought rted to Melzarin surfaced in his mind, prompting him to say to Melzarin in a slightly embarrassed tone, ¡°Uh¡­I think I should say sorry about what we did back then.¡±

    ¡°Nah, don¡¯t feel bad. To be honest, now that I look back at it, I was the one at fault,¡± Melzarin said in response to Felix¡¯s words, making both Felix and Rosalia look at Argentum beside Melzarin with immense shock. Although they knew that Eleanor was bound to attack them within a few seconds or so, their curiosity won over their minds, prompting the two to send a strand of energy to him and ask, ¡°What did you say to Melzarin?¡±

    Argentum could not help but jolt a bit in response to the unexpected message from the two, though he calmed down soon after that as a light chuckle could be heard from him. Recalling what he had said to Melzarin, he then responded to the two of them with a strand of his own, saying, ¡°To be honest, it¡¯s a slightly long story. How about we head to where Eleanor is for now and I¡¯ll tell you what happened while I was talking with Melzarin?¡±

    Curious as they may be, the two of them knew that Argentum was right, so they nodded in response to Argentum¡¯s request before talking with Melzarin on their next steps. Not long after, the four of them were heading to where Eleanor was at greater speeds than before thanks to Argentum¡¯s movement speed buffs.

    While that was happening, Argentum started his narration of what happened with Melzarin.

    ¡°Well, it went just like this¡­¡±

 Chapter 336: Truths Should Be Heard

    Chapter 336: Truths Should Be Heard

    While both Felix and Rosalia appeared in front of Eleanor, fulfilling their part of Argentum¡¯s n, Argentum, on the other hand, went ahead and fulfilled his part of the n,nding in front of Melzarin without hesitation.

    Bang! Thud!

    With him relying on the element of free fall, a slightlyrge crater appeared around where hended, kicking up a bit of dust that aroused Melzarin¡¯s senses, which were focused on Eleanor all this time. Of course, he also noticed both Felix and Rosalia appearing in front of Eleanor, but since Argentum was closer to him, he decided he was more of a priority.

    Focusing all of his fighting intent towards Argentum, Melzarin focused his vision onto him before asking in his haughty tone, ¡°And what are you doing here, Argentum? You know that every move you do will be futile since there¡¯s arge gap between us, right?¡±

    ¡°Who says I¡¯m going to fight against you?¡± Argentum hastily responded in a confident tone, utilizing all of the buffs he had in his arsenal tobat against the pressure of Melzarin¡¯s aura. Not long after, the pressure Argentum felt from Melzarin¡¯s aura had turned negligible, allowing him to stand tall in front of thetter.

    Knowing howrge the gap between him and Argentum was, Melzarin was quite surprised to see that Argentum was handling the power of his aura quite well, even considering the fact that he was only focusing around 30% of it at him. Since he was more rational in terms of fighting whenpared to Eleanor, he took note of Argentum¡¯s previous statement, prompting him to rx his guard a bit. Of course, it wasn¡¯t enough to remove the aura surrounding Argentum.

    Nevertheless, Argentum could not help but let out an inward sigh of relief, thinking that the hardest step in convincing Melzarin was finally done. Taking in a deep breath as he collected and organized his thoughts, he then looked directly at Melzarin and asked, ¡°Melzarin, what do you think of Eleanor?¡±

    ¡°Huh?!¡± Not expecting that kind of question from the get go, Melzarin was caught off guard as a flustered tone apanied his response. Then again, as someone who owned an inheritance, he had to keep his cool at all times, never to give the opponent an opening. Lightly coughing soon after, a solemn tone apanied his response as he said, ¡°Well, Eleanor is a great being. She¡¯s quite well-versed in the arts regarding the Fire element, and she¡¯s also an inheritance owner like me.¡±

    ¡°Well, I was expecting that kind of answer from the start, I guess,¡± Argentum said not long after Melzarin was finished responding, letting out a light sigh before sending arge strand of energy towards him. At first, Melzarin thought that he was going to be attacked in secret, though even if he was, he would be able to defend against it either way. Of course, Argentum had an idea on what was going inside his mind, prompting him to say to Melzarin, ¡°Don¡¯t resist it. It¡¯s just the usualmunication line.¡±

    Although Melzarin had his doubts, he decided to listen to Argentum¡¯s words, allowing the strand of energy thetter sent to be absorbed by his body as a connection of both their minds had been established. Soon after, the sound of Argentum¡¯s voice resounded in Melzarin¡¯s head as he asked, ¡°Can you hear me?¡±

    ¡°I can,¡± Melzarin responded, his tone still solemn. Perhaps, even slightly arrogant. Argentum lightly nodded in response to Melzarin¡¯s words, taking a quick look at what was happening between Eleanor and the two. Surprisingly, even with the buffs he had applied on them a while ago, Felix and Rosalia were being pushed back by Eleanor, whose mes were now of a different color.

    Pondering as to why that was the case, he then remembered that Felix mentioned to him that Eleanor had not gone berserk yet, deciding that this was a good way to segue into the crux of the matter when it came to Melzarin. Thinking up of a good question, Argentum then said to him, ¡°You know what? Let¡¯s skip the matter of what you think about Eleanor for now. But I do have a question regarding her.¡±

    ¡°And what might that question be?¡± Melzarin asked, his arrogance slightly disappearing.

    ¡°Felix mentioned to me a while ago that Eleanor had not gone berserk yet,¡± Argentum replied before adding, ¡°Although I¡¯ve been with Eleanor for quite some time now, I haven¡¯t known this side of her before. Could you tell me what he meant by her going berserk?¡±

    ¡°By Felix, do you mean the Grand Blue Master perchance?¡± Before answering his question, Melzarin decided to respond with a question of his own, to which Argentum sinctly replied, ¡°Yes. I obtained [Water Affinity] from his inheritance.¡±

    ¡°I see¡­¡± Melzarin said soon after, deciding to take a look at the trio as well. Seeing how it seemed that the three were in a stalemate so far, even though Eleanor was gradually getting an edge over the two, he quickly organized his thoughts and recalled all he knew about Eleanor¡¯s berserk mode.

    Not long after, he redirected his vision towards Argentum before responding, ¡°Well, it¡¯s pretty much what it is. Eleanor going berserk is basically her discarding all her rationality in exchange for greater power. Of course, she can¡¯t enter that state directly. Well, to be more exact, she doesn¡¯t want to directly enter the state. Instead, she decided to enter the state in stages in order to keep even a smidgen of her rationality while she¡¯s berserk. In total, there are three stages, with the first two being the precursor to her final stage.¡±

    ¡°The first stage is when her mes turn dark, as what we¡¯re seeing right now,¡± Melzarin exined before pointing at the three. ¡°She doesn¡¯t really have a name for this stage, but I just call it the Darkme stage since¡­it¡¯s kind of obvious. Herbat power increases by a decent margin while her rationality takes a small hit.¡±

    ¡°The second stage, she does have a name for it. She calls it the Eclipse stage, given how the mes now have a hint of white inside them,¡± he continued. ¡°Sacrificing a bit more of her rationality, her mes now have a slight corrosion effect, allowing her to easily break through energy barriers and constructs.¡±

    ¡°Of course, herbat power in the second stage is still nothingpared to the final stage,¡± he said before taking in a deep breath. ¡°At this stage, even I, who¡¯s considered as someone at the stronger side of the spectrum amongst the inheritance owners, wouldn¡¯t even be able tost 100 moves from her.¡±

    ¡°This stage, just like the first stage, doesn¡¯t have a name. But from the mes she creates in this stage, I could say without a doubt that Samsara is the best fit for this stage, taking on a subdued gray while you feel life and death emanating from it.¡±

    ¡°Naturally, with her only having a small part of her rationality at this stage, it¡¯s hard for her to discern foes from allies, which is why she rarely uses it,¡± Melzarin said before adding, ¡°It¡¯s quite weird as to why she would use such a technique in this fight.¡±

    Hearing this, Argentum could not help but ponder over it and say, ¡°Well, I guess it has something to do with you.¡±

    ¡°Me? What did I do?¡± Melzarin hastily asked, his arrogance now gone. At this moment, a more rxed tone resounded from him.

    ¡°Whenever you meet Eleanor, what do you do?¡± Argentum decided to get straight to the point, asking this exact question. In an instant, Melzarin rummaged through his memories, saying with a confident aura, only to turn slightly flustered not long after, ¡°Well, I just do what beings who want to show their love¡­to others do.¡±

    ¡°Such as?¡± Argentum asked, to which Melzarin said, ¡°Boast in front of her, make her feel inferior, the usual stuff.¡±

    ¡°Oh my god. Those two actually weren¡¯t kidding when they said that,¡± Argentum muttered soon after, which made Melzarin slightly curious as he asked, ¡°Is there something wrong?¡±

    ¡°Uh¡­Melzarin. I can call you Melzarin, right?¡± Argentum said in response to Melzarin¡¯s words, to which thetter nonchntly nodded in agreement, not wondering how Argentum found his real name out. Soon after, his expression turned into that of enlightenment and shock as he listened to Argentum¡¯s next question.

    ¡°How do I say this in the best way possible¡­hmm¡­ah.¡±

    ¡°Melzarin, have you ever wondered if Felix and Rosalia¡¯s advice from back then was false?¡±

    ¡°Never in my whole life,¡± Melzarin responded before adding, ¡°I¡¯m quite close to them, so why would I doubt them?¡±

    ¡®I¡­I¡¯m at a loss for words,¡¯ Argentum thought to himself, wondering how such a strong being could trust the words of his friends even though they were tant lies. Furiously scratching his head as he tried to think up of a way to say it in the best way possible, he eventually discarded this thought as he decided that it was better to get straight to the point.

    ¡°Melzarin¡­¡± Argentum said soon after, gaining Melzarin¡¯s attention as he asked, ¡°What is it?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry to say this, but¡­¡± Argentum responded soon after.

    ¡°You¡¯re fucking stupid.¡±

    ¡°Huh?¡± Melzarin was once again caught off guard by Argentum¡¯s words, not expecting to hear thating from a being he had just met. Naturally, the reaction to that would be on the aggressive side, with Melzarin gradually increasing the pressure of his aura on Argentum. Fortunately, it did not continue as Argentum continued, ¡°You¡¯re fucking stupid for still believing in Felix and Rosalia¡¯s words. They¡¯re lies, man. tant. Stupid. Lies!¡±

    ¡°Do you really fucking think a woman would fall for you if you decided to boast about your merits in front of her? Do you think she¡¯d fall head over heels for you if you decided to say to her one day ¡®Hey, you¡¯re shit¡¯?¡±

    ¡°Of course not!¡± At this point, a rage had consumed Argentum out of nowhere as he continued to talk. ¡°Naturally, there are some exceptions to this, but for the most part, no woman would be sane to be with such an abusive man like that! You gotta show love, care, andpassion, man! Make them feel like being with you is worth it! Never shove your pride up their asses!¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re better than that, Melzarin! Act like one!¡± Once he finished saying these words, Argentum gasped for air, seemingly venting out all of the rage that had consumed his body in the heat of the moment. Fortunately, he regained hisposure, noticing that an aura of repentance, disappointment, confusion, sadness, and everything else negative had taken hold of Melzarin, the aura binding him a while ago now gone.

    At this point, Argentum felt that he had gone too far with his words, wondering if he should apologize to Melzarin. But then, all of a sudden, Melzarin gradually looked at Argentum and asked with a hint of hope, not utilizing the connection they had.

    ¡°Do you think¡­I still have a chance¡­to redeem myself?¡±

    Although he wasn¡¯t expecting such a question toe out of Melzarin¡¯s mouth so quickly, Argentum took in a deep breath before responding with a light chuckle, ¡°Well, what do you think?¡±

    Hearing that reply, Melzarin had regained his confidence in himself as a new aura had surrounded him. At this point, an aura of arrogance was now a thing of the past for him. Right now, he was an enlightened dark skeleton. A dark skeleton would now right the wrongs he had done these past ten thousand years or so.

    Of course, that all came crumbling down as he asked Argentum with a slightly flustered aura surrounding him, ¡°W-what should I do to make things right? H-how do I tell E-Eleanor what I feel f-for her?¡±

    ¡°Beats me, man,¡± Argentum said with a shrug of his shoulders as he did not have any romantic experience. Nevertheless, he knew that any move other than what Felix and Rosalia told him would be better, so he pondered for a bit and said, ¡°How about¡­you try confessing to her directly?¡±

    ¡°I¡­I think I don¡¯t have the courage to do that,¡± Melzarin said in response, his body slightly shivering from the nervousness he felt. Unsurprisingly, Argentum never gave him a choice to back out as he said, ¡°It¡¯s either you confess to her directly or you don¡¯t. Do you really want to keep your feelings for her in the dark that badly?¡±

    ¡°I¡­I think thetter¡¯s a good choice¡­¡± Melzarin muttered, to which Argentum let out a long sigh before saying, ¡°Confess to her¡­¡±

    ¡°Or I¡¯ll ask Rosalia to tell me one of your most embarrassing secrets.¡±

    ¡°And then, I¡¯ll spread it to Eleanor.¡±

    Whoosh!

    In an instant, the flustered Melzarin had returned to his enlightened yet confident self as he looked at Argentum and said with a solemn tone, ¡°Please don¡¯t do that. I¡¯ll confess.¡±

    ¡°Good,¡± Argentum said with an aura of joy before looking at the three. At this moment, the duo were flung away by Eleanor, with thetter already in the Eclipse stage.

    ¡°First off, we should help the two subdue Eleanor and stop her from going berserk,¡± Argentum soon said to Melzarin, to which thetter nodded before lifting Argentum up with his hand and dashing to where Felix and Rosalia were.

    ¡­

    ¡°And that¡¯s basically how it went,¡± Argentum said to Felix and Rosalia through the connection they had, ending the narration.

    For quite some time, the three of them went silent, with Melzarin focusing on Eleanor¡¯s current condition, updating them from time to time. Fortunately, someone broke the silence between them, which was Rosalia, who asked Argentum.

    ¡°In short, you dropped a truth bomb on Melzarin and then proceeded to ckmail him to make him do what you want?¡±

    ¡°If you interpret it that way, then yeah,¡± Argentum replied.

    ¡°I think I should do that sometime as well,¡± Rosalia said in response, lightly chuckling soon after.

    ¡°Yeah¡­¡± Felix responded, only to add after that.

    ¡°No.¡±

 Chapter 337: An Expected Outcome

    Chapter 337: An Expected Oue

    By the time Argentum was finished narrating what had happened between him and Melzarin while Felix and Rosalia were fighting, the four of them had already arrived a few meters away from where Eleanor was. Unfortunately, just as they were about to n their next move on a strengthened Eleanor, the mes surrounding her had changed form once again. This time, arge wave of killing intent radiated throughout the area, prompting all four to let out a sigh of slight disappointment.

    Soon after, Felix scratched his head with an aura of slight worry around him as he muttered, ¡°Oh, boy. Eleanor has finally gone berserk.¡±

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    In less than an instant, the white and ck portions of the mes that appeared around Eleanor fused as one, transforming into gray mes that emanated a strong aura of death. Not long after, another type of aura appeared from the gray mes, bing a great contrast to the deathly aura of the mes. Of course, this aura was none other than the aura of life, acting as the fuel of the mes to burn more intensely.

    Once the mes surrounding her had turned into gray mes, the dress covering her body soon turned into gray mes as well while the mark of a gray me appeared on her forehead. At this moment, the four knew that they were now fighting against Eleanor¡¯s strongest form for real, the Samsara form.

    Now devoid of rationality, Eleanor went ahead and covered her fists in gray mes as she dashed at the four with the greatest speed she could ever muster. Seeing this, the four hastily looked at one another and nodded, tacitly agreeing that the first attack Eleanor was going to send towards them would be the strongest. With that in mind, Melzarin, Rosalia, and Felix decided to use all of their strongest defensive skills in tandem while Argentum acted as their support.

    ¡°[Mountain Reformation Scripture: Earth¡¯s Divine Will]!¡± Since he was the strongest being among them, Melzarin activated his own skill first, forming a wall of earth that was 10 meters high and 5 meters thick. Soon after, this wall of earth had turned a dark shade of gray, giving off the feeling that it had turned to metal.

    ¡°[World Protection Art: Dominion of the Terran Sovereign]!¡± Next up was Rosalia, whose element was the same as Melzarin¡¯s. Unlike Melzarin¡¯s skill though, this defensive skill covered the four of them in a thick barrier that radiated a bright brown color. Surprisingly, this barrier connected with the wall Melzarin had made, reinforcing its defensive properties.

    ¡°[Tsunami Redirection Scripture: Divine Wave Splitter Formation]!¡± Being the only strong being left that hadn¡¯t activated their skill, Felix went ahead and cast the strongest defensive skill he had in his arsenal, covering the barrier Rosalia made in a barrier of water that rotated every second at high speeds. At this point, only a second or so has passed since Eleanor made her move. Nevertheless, her fists were already ready to attack the barrier at full power.

    Of course, Argentum would try his best to not let it happen, covering all of them in ayer of blue energy as he shouted, ¡°[Supreme Aqua Benefica: Selfless Variant]!¡±

    Swoosh!

    In less than a second, the energy that the three defensive skills had been enhanced by a great degree, prompting the three to look at Argentum with shock as if he was a monster. Ignoring their reactions from what he had done, Argentum continued to cast buffs that would increase the durability of the defensive skills, covering all of them once more in ayer of energy. This time, though, the energy was light brown.

    ¡°[Gaia¡¯s World Aegis]!¡±

    Fwoosh!

    And just like that, the energy circting within each of the three defensive skills had intensified to yet another degree, giving off the feeling that the three would be able to defend against Eleanor¡¯s attack without a problem. Fortunately, the buff had applied just a split second before Eleanor¡¯s attacknded against the defensive skills.

    Bang!

    Apanied by a loud explosion, arge part of the surroundings had been flung into the air, with the only part still remaining on the ground being thend that the four were standing on. Seeing how destructive Eleanor¡¯s attack was, Argentum could not help but look at the three and ask, ¡°Did you three ever have to fight against her at her full power?¡±

    In response, the three hastily shook their heads, knowing very well that they would lose to her on a one-on-one if she was in her Samsara form. But in reality, the three had asked Eleanor to fight them at her strongest a few times, and well¡­

    The best way to put it would be that the three took a couple of months to return her to normal after each fight.

    Noticing that her attack hadn¡¯t obtained the effect that she wanted, Eleanor automatically summoned arge swath of mes around her fists, making it seem like a group of people were punching against the wall at once. Naturally, with that kind of attack, the speed at which the durability of the three defensive skills went down had increased in pace.

    Examining what Eleanor was doing, Felix then closed his sense of vision for a bit before sending a strand of energy to the remaining three and saying through that connection, ¡°At most, we only have around five seconds before she breaks through our defensive skills. Should we prepare an offensive to catch her off guard?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m down to be on the offensive,¡± Melzarin hastily replied.

    ¡°I¡¯ll boost your offensive properties,¡± Rosalia added not long after.

    ¡°I¡¯ll do the same thing as Rosalia,¡± Argentum said his piece after Rosalia was done.

    ¡°Guess I¡¯ll also be on the offensive, then,¡± Felix uttered soon after that.

    Aftering to a consensus, Melzarin and Felix went ahead and prepared the strongest offensive skills they had in their arsenal. For Melzarin, the armor of earth surrounding his body was manipted to coalesce around his hands before transforming into a giant double-handed sword. Not long after, a great mass of Earth energy particles surrounded his body, making him give off the feeling that he and the double-handed sword were the same entity.

    As for Felix, he conjured a spear out of water just like before. But rather than forming a magic circle at the tip of the spear to increase its speed, he instead redirected most of the energy inside his body towards the surface, creating ayer of dark blue armor made out of solidified water. Soon after, arge mass of Water energy particles appeared out of nowhere, covering both Felix and his spear as he gave off the same feeling as Melzarin, being as one.

    At this moment, therge wall Melzarin had conjured was broken through by Eleanor, with her now madly hammering her fists on the two barriers Rosalia and Felix made. Seeing that they did not have that much time left, given how Eleanor summoned another wave of mes to speed up the process, Argentum and Rosalia hastily summoned all of the energy inside their bodies outward as they cast all of the enhancement skills and spells they had in their arsenal.

    ¡°[World Rejuvenation Art: Boundless Proliferation]!¡±

    ¡°[World Sublimation Art: The World as the de]!¡±

    ¡°[World Ultimatum Art: Union of Life and World]!¡±

    ¡°[Higher Zephyr Magic: Zephyr Burst]!¡±

    ¡°[Higher Ignis Magic: Ignis Burst]!¡±

    ¡°¡­¡±

    ¡°[Zephyr Ignis Ouroboros Magic: Symbiotic Resonance]!¡±

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    Various balls of energy taking on various shapes and sizes soon entered both Melzarin and Felix¡¯s bodies, increasing theirbat power to the limit. Fortunately, by the time all of the buffs had applied on the two, Eleanor had broken through the two barriers, which meant that she had no momentum left.

    Without hesitation, the two of them charged towards Eleanor, with Melzarin at the front. Eleanor, who could feel thebat intent strongly emanating from the two, hastily used the gray mes she had summoned to form a shield in front of her. Unfortunately, she did not expect that thebat power of the two would be so overbearing.

    ¡°[Mountain Reformation Scripture: World-Rending Form]!¡±

    ¡°[Cleaving the Myriad Mountains]!¡±

    Swish! Bang!

    Thanks to his attack speed being enhanced to insane degrees by Argentum¡¯s buffs, the double-handed sword Melzarin was wielding had collided with the shield of gray mes in an instant, sting all of them away, much to Eleanor¡¯s surprise. With a ton of momentum left in the double-handed sword, it made sense that the sword would connect with Eleanor¡¯s body and send her flying, though she did try ast-ditch effort to defend.

    Whoosh!

    With her being flung at great speeds, Melzarin shouted at Felix, who was now dashing to where she wouldnd, ¡°Give it all you got!¡±

    ¡°Why wouldn¡¯t I?!¡± Felix hastily shouted in response as he made sure to be ahead of Eleanor by a few meters. By the time Eleanor was about tond on the ground, Felix had appeared before him, channeling a great portion of energy in his body to cover his water spear in magic circles.

    Not long after, he thrust the spear towards Eleanor, cutting off all her momentum just like that before being flung back to where the three were.

    ¡°[Tsunami Piercer Variant: Leviathan Devouring the Seven Seas]!¡±

    Bang!

    And just like that, Eleanor was sent flying once more. But this time, she was flying back to where Melzarin and the others were at great speeds.

    Just as the three were about to get away from the spot where Eleanor would possiblynd, Argentum sent a message to the other three through the connection they had and asked, ¡°Do you think Eleanor would return back to normal with such an attack?¡±

    ¡°If those attacks don¡¯t return her back to normal, then we¡¯re pretty much doomed,¡± Felix said in response as he headed to where they were. Melzarin agreed with Felix¡¯s words, adding, ¡°Those attacks of ours used up a great portion of our energy. In short, it¡¯s up to Rosalia and possibly you, Argentum, to fight against the weakened Eleanor.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m not even great at attacks¡­¡± Rosalia could not help but say. As for Argentum, he could only scratch his head. Though, not long after, a thought surfaced in his mind as he asked them, ¡°On second thought, what if I told you guys that I have a way to stop Eleanor from attacking for a bit, allowing you three tond more attacks?¡±

    ¡°Oh?¡± In an instant, the curiosities of the three were piqued, wondering how such a weak Pseudo-Animate would have such an overbearing skill in his arsenal. Of course, they went ahead and started to clear up all their doubts, with Felix going first as he asked, ¡°How much time can you buy for us?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m not sure since I haven¡¯t tried it, but I feel like I could bind her for 10 seconds,¡± Argentum replied, responding with the smallest amount of time he could achieve with the skill. Nevertheless, the three were left at a loss for words, expecting that he would respond that he could bind her for only a second or two at most. Although they wanted to believe his words, they knew that it would be better for them to doubt his words for now since they didn¡¯t want to take any chances.

    Then again, they decided that they would use Argentum¡¯s method for now, binding Eleanor at the very moment shended. With that, the four hastily got away from the area where Eleanor wouldnd, watching as Eleanor fell to the ground like a shooting star.

    Thud! Bang!

    With no surprise, Eleanornded on the ground with a tremendous amount of force, forming a crater that was about a couple of meters deep and around a dozen meters wide. Since they had visual and auditory confirmation that Eleanor hadnded on the ground, Argentum went ahead and used the innate skill from [Sage¡¯s Earth Magic] for the first time.

    ¡°[Jotunheim Domain]!¡±

    Swoosh!

    Within a second, the ground surrounding Eleanor had taken on a shade of light yellow as vines made out of this light yellow energy wrapped itself around Eleanor. After confirming that there was no resistance from Eleanor even after a second, the four of them hastily went closer to where she was, letting out a sigh of relief at the very moment they saw her.

    Right now, Eleanor had returned to her original form, the gray dress surrounding her now being the usual shade of red she exuded. Even the gray me mark on her forehead was nowhere to be seen. Just as Rosalia and Felix were about to get closer to Eleanor, Melzarin stopped the two of them as he said, ¡°Allow me.¡±

    Although they had no idea why Melzarin stopped the two of them, since they knew he had changed, they decided that it would be a good first chance for him to change Eleanor¡¯s impression of him.

    Making his way to where Eleanor was, Melzarin went ahead and poked her on the cheek a few times, which surprisingly woke her up.

    ¡°Mnghh¡­¡± Moaning from the pain she felt all over her body, Eleanor looked around her surroundings, only for her vision to stop as she noticed that Melzarin was in front of her. Naturally, Eleanor tried to distance herself from him as far as possible after that, but unfortunately for her, she was still under the effects of Argentum¡¯s skill.

    And so, with her body being bound by Argentum¡¯s skill, plus the fact that she was too weak to even distance herself to begin with, she shouted at Melzarin, saying, ¡°Get away from me!¡±

    ¡°Eleanor, I love you! Please be mine!¡± Contrary to what Eleanor would expect to hear from Melzarin, thetter instead said this, leaving the other four at a loss for words. Argentum, who remembered what he said to Melzarin sometime ago, could not help but do a facepalm as he shouted inwardly.

    ¡°Idiot!¡±

    ¡°¡­¡± As for Eleanor, she was not expecting these words toe out of Melzarin¡¯s mouth at all. Nevertheless, given the current situation she was in, her answer was quite expected.

    ¡°What?!¡±

    ¡°No!¡±

 Chapter 338: Alls Well That Ends Well

    Chapter 338: All¡¯s Well That Ends Well

    Hearing Eleanor¡¯s response, Melzarin was left at a loss for words as he did not expect that Argentum¡¯s advice for him did not work. Just as he was about to turn around and look at Argentum for more advice, a familiar voice had resounded in his mind, given that the four of them were still connected.

    ¡°Try again!¡± Argentum said through their connection, allowing Felix and Rosalia to listen in. Although they were a bit confused as to why Argentum would say that to Melzarin all of a sudden, it did not take long for his words to click in their minds, prompting them to say the same thing to him.

    ¡°Try harder, Melzarin!¡±

    ¡°You can do it, Melzarin! Try your best~!¡±

    Letting the encouraging words of his friends resound throughout his mind, Melzarin had regained enough confidence to try again, even though Eleanor was radiating an aura of disgust towards Melzarin.

    ¡°Please, Eleanor! I really love you! Be my girlfriend!¡± Melzarin shouted once more, to which Eleanor instantly responded with a slightly infuriated tone, ¡°Is this some kind of sick joke, Melzarin? Get away from me!¡±

    ¡°Listen to me, Eleanor! Just be my girlfriend!¡± he said amidst Eleanor¡¯s harsh words. At this point, Eleanor could not help but be incredibly infuriated at Melzarin, given how he did not stop saying nonsense to her like asking her to be his girlfriend. Even though she had regained her full rationality, her response felt like it was driven by pure anger as she shouted, ¡°You better get away from me or else I won¡¯t listen to anything you say anymore!¡±

    ¡°¡­¡± Surprisingly, that statement had worked, instantly causing Melzarin to shut up as he went ahead and looked at the three slightly far away from him. While he was waiting for the three to tell him on what to do next, Felix and Rosalia hade closer to Argentum as they noticed that the domain that bound Eleanor to the ground was still there. Curious as to why that would be the case, Rosalia went ahead and asked Argentum through their connection, ¡°I¡¯m quite surprised that your domain has Eleanor still bound to the ground. But why?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m giving Melzarin a chance to sort things out,¡± Argentum replied, only to let out a sigh soon after. Not long after that, he went ahead and removed his control over the domain, allowing Eleanor to be free of the restriction. Since she had regained a bit of energy from being bound, she hastily distanced herself from Melzarin, only to notice that Argentum, Felix, and Rosalia were there with him as well.

    In an instant, she looked at the direction of the three, recalling the bits and pieces that she could recall from what had happened some time ago. Fortunately, the bits and pieces she recalled were enough to get a rough idea of what was happening, prompting her to be on guard as she asked them, ¡°Are you three¡­helping Melzarin out?¡±

    ¡°I guess you could say yes,¡± Argentum decided to respond for the three of them, which elicited Eleanor to get into abat stance. Unfortunately for her, she did not even have enough energy to conjure a single attack, given how almost all of it was used up in her Samsara form. Nevertheless, she still remained in herbat stance, asking them, ¡°So, I guess you used a binding skill on me to let Melzarin have his way around me?¡±

    ¡°Not at all,¡± Argentum responded as he shook his head before continuing, ¡°I only used the skill just in case you were still in your berserk state. Felix and Rosalia told me how dangerous you were in your berserk state.¡±

    ¡°Speaking of which¡­¡± he then said something through the connection he and the other three had, the message being focused towards Felix as he asked, ¡°Didn¡¯t you tell me back then that you were stronger than Eleanor?¡±

    ¡°Hoh? Felix actually boasting in front of someone else? Now that¡¯s a rare asion,¡± Rosalia could not help but say in response to Argentum¡¯s words, while Felix could not help but let out an awkward chuckle as he said, ¡°I¡¯m not really joking when I said I was stronger than Eleanor¡­¡±

    ¡°Of course, only when she doesn¡¯t get too serious.¡±

    ¡°Right¡­¡± Argentum gave off the feeling that he was rolling his eyes before focusing his sense of vision back at Eleanor. Since Eleanor had gradually rxed after listening to their answer, Argentum thought that this was the best chance for Melzarin to make a move once more. Without hesitation, he sent a message to Melzarin, which the other two heard as he said, ¡°Try making a move again. This time, stay true to yourself.¡±

    ¡°Wasn¡¯t I already doing that in the first ce?¡± Melzarin looked back at the three and asked with a slightly confused expression. In response, Rosalia said to Melzarin, ¡°What Argentum is trying to say is that you should approach her from how you normally would.¡±

    ¡°Just be you, Melzarin. That¡¯s all,¡± Felix could not help but add.

    Although Melzarin still didn¡¯t really get what the three told him, he would try his best to follow their advice, this time weighing the pros and cons of their statements. Naturally, with their words having no malicious intent, most of their words to him had lots of pros.

    And so, mustering up the courage, Melzarin went closer to Eleanor once again, who was looking at him with a vignt aura surrounding her. Just as Eleanor was about to tell him to get away from her once more, Melzarin took the initiative to start the conversation with a statement that left her at a loss for words.

    ¡°Before you tell me to get away from you once more, let me say from the start that I¡¯m sorry.¡±

    ¡°¡­¡± Eleanor went silent after hearing Melzarin¡¯s statement, not knowing what to say for a bit. Though, after some time, she opened up her mouth and asked with suspicion, ¡°Did those three tell you to say this so you could humiliate me again?¡±

    In an instant, Melzarin shook his head as he replied, ¡°Not at all. These words of minee from the bottom of my heart. Thanks to Argentum, I¡¯ve been enlightened that my ways in the past have been the wrongest it could ever be.¡±

    Hearing this, Eleanor went ahead and hastily sent a strand of energy towards Argentum, connecting her to him as she asked, ¡°Is what Melzarin saying true?¡±

    ¡°Uh huh,¡± Argentum said with a nod. ¡°I did tell him that what he has been doing so far to you is wrong, and he¡¯s finally enlightened to know that he¡¯s wrong. Felix and Rosalia can attest to that.¡±

    With that said, Eleanor then looked at Felix and Rosalia, who were informed by Argentum that they were going to be asked by Eleanor. Taking in a deep breath, Felix went ahead and responded first, saying, ¡°Although it may not seem like it, Melzarin has really changed, Eleanor. Have you noticed how the arrogant air around him has disappeared?¡±

    ¡°Yeah, yeah, yeah! Plus like how he¡¯s not forcing anything onto you, Eleanor. Didn¡¯t you notice that as well?¡± Rosalia continued where Felix left off, prompting Eleanor to look at Melzarin with slight surprise. Naturally, Melzarin had an idea of what was going on in Eleanor¡¯s mind.

    ¡°I seriously apologize for what I¡¯ve done back then, Eleanor. I know I¡¯ve been treating you like garbage for over ten thousand years now, but I hope you can find it in your heart to forgive me,¡± Melzarin said, unsure as to whether she would actually forgive him. Thinking that his statement was still a bitcking, he then added, ¡°If you¡¯re still unsure that I¡¯m a changed skeleton, I wouldn¡¯t mind giving you a gift to make up for the over ten thousand years I¡¯ve mistreated you.¡±

    ¡°Really?¡± At this point, Eleanor¡¯s interest was piqued as the word ¡®gift¡¯ had aroused her attention. Thebat stance she was in before was now nowhere to be seen. Instead, the pose of an eager girl could be seen as she asked with a hint of curiosity, ¡°What kind of gift are you nning to give me to make up for everything you did to me?¡±

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡± Melzarin pondered over the matter for a bit, eventuallying up with what he thought was a decent answer as he answered, ¡°Would a vial of Draconic Ignivaris Essence suffice as an apology?¡±

    Just as Melzarin had mentioned that, both Felix and Rosalia could not help but radiate auras of shock and wonder as they simultaneously said, ¡°He has that?!¡±

    As for Argentum, he maintained silence as he was a weak Pseudo-Animate in their eyes. Nevertheless, the mere mention of the thing had aroused his attention and surprise after rummaging through Aurus¡¯ memories. ¡°A Pseudo-Animate actually has ess to a Pseudo-Transcendent grade material? Now that¡¯s surprising.¡±

    Hearing that Melzarin was willing to give her such a precious piece of material, Eleanor instantly epted the offer as she said, ¡°Alright, I ept your apology. Although it¡¯s still hard to forget everything you did to me for the past ten thousand years or so, I¡¯ll take this as the first step to our rtionship turning over a new leaf.¡±

    Melzarin was delighted to hear those wordse out of Eleanor as he felt that his chances of her bing his girlfriend had increased. With that in mind, he mustered up his courage once more as he asked, ¡°So¡­about you bing my girlfriend¡­¡±

    ¡°You were actually serious about that?¡± Eleanor responded with a question of her own, to which Melzarin replied with a slightly flustered tone, ¡°Well, if I didn¡¯t have serious feelings for you, then I wouldn¡¯t have done all of that stuff to you for the past ten thousand years.¡±

    ¡°How in the world¡­¡± Eleanor muttered in confusion, wondering why Melzarin would do such a thing. After looking around for a bit, she then noticed that Felix and Rosalia were actively avoiding her gaze, prompting her to ask them with a sigh, ¡°Was it you two?¡±

    ¡°Haha¡­I guess you could say that¡­¡± Felix spoke up for the two of them, with Rosalia twiddling with her thumbs from embarrassment. Scratching her head as to whether the two were her true friends or not, she still knew that she had to respond to Melzarin. Although she knew that Melzarin was a kind guy even before what she had done to her, she still could not forget the harsh things he had said and done to her.

    In the end, Eleanor could not help but look at Melzarin with a slightly long sigh as she said in a slightly sad tone, ¡°Well¡­I don¡¯t know how to say this, but¡­I¡¯m sorry, Melzarin. I still can¡¯t forget the things you did to me back then. How about you try asking me again in a couple thousand years from now?¡±

    ¡°I see,¡± Melzarin said in response, an aura of slight disappointment surrounding him. Though, amidst the disappointment, one could find a hint of relief in it, letting others know that he was relieved to find out that there was still a chance for him to make his dreame true. ¡°Sure, I can wait until the wounds heal.¡±

    ¡°But for now, can we go back to bing friends again?¡± he asked soon after, prompting Eleanor to form a tongue made out of mes as she said, ¡°Bleh. You think anyone would be friends with a smelly dark skeleton like you? Never in a million years, stupid.¡±

    In response, Melzarin let out a peal ofughter as he knew that Eleanor was fine with them being friends again. As for the three, although they were a bit disappointed that the two did not get together, which was understandable, they were still happy for Melzarin since it seemed that their rtionship was heading in the right direction.

    While Melzarin went closer to Eleanor as they talked out about the gift that he was going to give her, Felix, Rosalia, and Argentum decided to have their own conversation, with thetter saying, ¡°All¡¯s well that ends well, I guess.¡±

    ¡°So, what are you guys going to do next?¡± Argentum followed up with another question, to which Felix replied, ¡°I¡¯m heading back to my inheritance to sort some things out. How about you two?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m going to head back to my inheritance as well. I still need to take care of my disciple,¡± Rosalia said, only for a thought to surface in her mind as she looked at Argentum and asked, ¡°Speaking of which, would you like to tour around my inheritance for a bit. Although I feel like Melzarin has already given you everything from his inheritance, I can still give you a thing or two that¡¯s beneficial.¡±

    Hearing that, Argentum pondered over the suggestion for a bit, eventually nodding soon after as he looked at Felix and said, ¡°I guess I¡¯ming along with Rosalia, then.¡±

    Just as Argentum was about to cut off the connection the four of them had, Melzarin¡¯s voice soon resounded in his mind, prompting him to look at the two beside him. Noticing that the two were oblivious to what he was hearing, it seemed that it was a private message.

    ¡°Argentum, I can¡¯t thank you enough for what you¡¯ve done to help me out,¡± Melzarin said to Argentum through their connection. ¡°Although it would be hard to pay your goodwill back with the things I have in my inheritance, if there¡¯s anything you want from me, I¡¯ll try my best to procure it and give it to you.¡±

    ¡°Anything?¡± Argentum repeated one of the words in Melzarin¡¯s statement, wanting to rify Melzarin¡¯s limits on his offer.

    ¡°Yes, anything,¡± Melzarin responded, lightly nodding as he looked at Argentum.

    ¡°Well¡­¡± Argentum pondered over the offer for a bit, an aura of slight maliciousness radiating from him as he soon came up with a fitting answer.

    ¡°How about¡­¡±

    ¡°¡­you give me your ownership over the Desecrated Inheritance?¡±

 Chapter 339: A Surprise Visit

    Chapter 339: A Surprise Visit

    XXXX Continent, Seraph Kingdom, inside the Ninth Prince¡¯s pavilion.

    ¡°Alright, then. Since everyone has agreed that the name of our team will be the Vanadir Coalition, let¡¯s now move onto a topic that¡¯s crucial for us to have higher chances of winning in the war for the throne,¡± Vanadir looked at the other four as he said this statement.

    Hearing thest part of his statement, the other four perked up their ears as solemn expressions could be seen on their faces. Of course, Vanadir knew that cracking a joke at this point would drastically backfire, so he truly got serious as he said, ¡°I¡¯m sure that all of you know that the war for the throne is a sort of test for the princes that not only tests our abilities in terms of strategy andbat, but also our abilities in adapting and formting new ideas of our own.¡±

    ¡°Unsurprisingly, this idea came from our current king, Zeldrion Seraph. As to why he did the test in this format, he wanted to check if our abilities were more or lessparable to him, even on a smaller scale,¡± he soon added.

    ¡°And so, we shall now be tackling what I consider as the most important part of this event, which are the group attacks.¡±

    In response, all four nodded. Although they felt that group attacks were not as important unlike formting various strategies for various situations, they knew that group attacks were quite a vital part in such an event like the war for the throne, which highly relied on the strength of the members of the team.

    ¡°I believe that all of you have undergonebat before, so you know how effective group attacks are when the people involved in it are truly in sync,¡± Vanadir said soon after their non-verbal responses. Taking in a deep breath, he then told them, ¡°With that in mind, we shall now head to the royal training grounds in order to formte some group attacks.¡±

    Just as he was about to be the first to head out of the pavilion, Erea went ahead and spoke her mind regarding Vanadir¡¯s words, asking him, ¡°Your Highness, might I ask why we¡¯re formting group attacks right now? Surely it would be more productive for us if all 10 members of the team are present, right?¡±

    After Erea was finished asking her question, the other three then looked at Vanadir. As for Vanadir, he pondered over the question for a bit before nodding as he answered, ¡°Indeed, it would be more productive for us to do that. It would also allow us to create group attacks that involve 10 people, which would result in a drastic increase inbat power. Of course, there¡¯s a reason why I¡¯ve decided to formte group attacks with us 5 for now.¡±

    ¡°Since us 5 shall act as the core of the team, we must have as many possible group attackbinations as possible,¡± Vanadir soon added. ¡°We must think of the remaining 5 as cannon fodder, how harsh it may be. I believe that as long as us 5 are still standing, then we have a high chance of seeding in the fight.¡±

    ¡°Of course, I¡¯ll also ask the people that will fill the 5 remaining slots to formte group attacks of their own, allowing us to operate as two separate teams, with us 5 being the main team. There¡¯s a high chance that the other princes will definitely prioritize their own safety, which means that they¡¯ll always focus on moving as a whole. Naturally, all of this is still spection, so we can¡¯t say what will actually happen on the day of the fight itself.¡±

    ¡°Now, shall we head to the royal training grounds?¡± Vanadir asked the four of them, prompting the four to look at each other for a bit before lightly nodding as they soon followed the Ninth Prince, making their way to the royal training grounds.

    ¡­

    While making their way to the pce¡¯s royal training grounds, Dane made his way to the front, arriving beside Vanadir before sending a strand of energy tomunicate with him in secret.

    ¡°Your Highness, my master has replied to your request,¡± Dane said through the strand of energy connecting them.

    In response, Vanadir raised his eyebrows as he replied, ¡°What did your master say?¡±

    With a light sigh, Dane replied, ¡°He told me that he would be fine with you recruiting some of his students for the war for the throne, though you¡¯ll have to wait six more months until you can do so.¡±

    Calcting the amount of time remaining until the war for the throne, he could not help but ask Dane, ¡°That only gives us around three more months until the beginning of the event. Is there a reason as to why your master chose that date?¡±

    Scratching his head in slight guilt, Dane responded, ¡°Well, my master told me that it¡¯s because the other princes had already asked him if they could recruit his students. Of course, as I¡¯m his disciple, he made sure to give you the best time frame to recruit students. Six months from now is also the time when the academy opens its doors to new students, allowing you to recruit new faces.¡±

    Knowing very well that he could not bargain his way around this, and given the fact that he was still being given preferential treatment even though his other brothers had asked the same thing, Vanadir instead let out a long sigh as he cut off the connection between him and Dane before continuing to lead the others as they made their way to the royal training grounds.

    ¡­

    With the pce spanning arge area, as well as the fact that they could not fly inside, it took around 20 minutes for the five of them to arrive.

    ¡°What arge area¡­¡± Erea could not help but mutter as she stepped forward to get a better look of the royal training ground. Soon after, Valentia appeared beside her as she added, ¡°A pretty empty one at that.¡±

    Although it was quite peculiar to see that almost no person was at the royal training grounds, it was quite understandable if one considered the current situation. With each prince training their members in preparation for the war for the throne, they knew very well to not train at the royal training grounds, lest they wanted the other teams to know of their moves.

    Of course, with that same line of thought, that made the royal training grounds a great ce to train since that meant that no one would spy on them¡­as long as they bribed those who do, naturally.

    Heading towards the center of the training ground, Vanadir then looked at the four that came along with him and said, ¡°Before we start formting our group attacks, let¡¯s talk about our sses and specialties first.¡±

    ¡°Dane, how about you go first?¡± he said not long after, his vision focused on Dane, who was on his leftmost side.

    ¡°As you wish, Your Highness.¡± Dane lightly nodded in response. He then looked at the other three and said, ¡°As you may know, I¡¯m a mage. To be more exact, I¡¯m a Rank 4 High Mage. Due to my ss, I¡¯m well-versed in all types of magic, though I specialize in Space-type magic. In terms of offensive magic¡­yeah. Also Space-based magic.¡±

    After finishing his piece, he then looked at his student, prompting Erea to attract their attention before saying, ¡°Just like my teacher, I¡¯m also a mage. Unfortunately, I¡¯m only a Rank 3 Dual Cortex Mage for now, though I think I could reach the Rank 4 level before the start of the war. Due to my ss, I am only well-versed in two types of elemental magic for now, which is Fire-type and Water-type magic. Of course, I¡¯ll make sure to expand my repertoire before the war begins.¡±

    ¡°How about I go next?¡± With Erea done, Valentia opted to speak, prompting Griselle to shrug her shoulders in response. With a light grin, she then said, ¡°I¡¯m a Rank 4 Sanguine Sword Witch. Thanks to this ss, I¡¯m great at sword fighting, as well as Blood-type magic. Through this Blood-type magic, I can heal any type of wound in a short amount of time, except death, of course.¡±

    She then took in a deep breath before adding, ¡°I can also fuse my two specialties together, allowing me to use the blood of my enemies to enter a state of extreme offense¡­at the cost of my rationality.¡±

    ¡°If you consider Valentia to be a berserker, then you can consider me as a guardian,¡± Griselle said after Valentia was done. ¡°I¡¯m a Rank 4 Prime Defender. I¡¯m great at blocking and deflecting attacks, while my ultimate move allows me to reflect attacks thrown at me at 200% of its original power. Other than that, I also train in swordsmanship, though my ability with it is not as great as Valentia¡¯s.¡±

    ¡°Since all four of you have exined your sses and specialties, it¡¯s time for me to do the same,¡± Vanadir said before exining, ¡°I¡¯m a Rank 3 Adept Windwalker. From the name of my ss, it¡¯s quite obvious that I should be well-versed in Wind-type magic¡­but I¡¯m not. I¡¯ll make sure to learn as much Wind-type magic as possible before the start of the event. Nevertheless, I¡¯m well-versed in sword fighting, and I have a weapon that allows me to cast Wind-type offensive magic.¡±

    After that, Vanadir took in a deep breath before looking at the four once more and asking, ¡°So, are we all clear on our specialties?¡±

    In response, all four lightly nodded, to which Vanadir let out a light smile before saying, ¡°Alright. Let¡¯s formte some group attacks!¡±

    ¡­

    And just like that, the five of them started to formte group attacks that would allow their specialties to be more prominent. Of course, at first, it was quite hard for them to formte decent group attacks since they were still getting used to the limits of the other members in the team. But naturally, as time passed, they became more and morefortable as they got to know what worked and what didn¡¯t.

    By the time around three hours had passed, the five of them had decided that they had created all of the possible group attacks they could make that involved two people. Naturally, they knew that there was a still long way to go until their moves would be considered powerful, though they knew they already had a good start.

    After another hour had passed, all group attacks involving three people had been created by them, with group attacks involving four people being made within the span of a half hour after that.

    With all of that done, that only left the group attacks that involved all 5 of them. Since these types of attacks needed the full coordination and cooperation of the members making up the attack, it took over an hour for everything to finally fall into ce.

    ¡°Let¡¯s try this one more time!¡± Vanadir shouted, soon dashing at the fastest speed he could muster.

    ¡°Hup!¡± While Vanadir was running towards a certain direction, Dane soon conjured a pir of earth in front of Vanadir, which thetter used as a tform to jump off of as he started to fall down from a decently high height.

    ¡°Ignition Mode!¡±

    ¡°[Magnus Tempestria: Dragon¡¯s Fang]!¡±

    In an instant, the length of the de Vanadir was wielding had expanded by a meter, being made up of a tangible dark green energy. Not wanting to fail one more time, he hastily shouted as he continued to fall down, ¡°Everyone! Buff me up!¡±

    ¡°3rd Circle! Void¡¯s Embrace!¡± Dane hastily shouted, instantly covering Vanadir¡¯s de in a thinyer of dark energy.

    ¡°1st Circle! me Imbuement! Aqua Imbuement!¡± Soon after, Erea followed up with her own spells, covering the de in a thinyer of red and blue energy.

    ¡°2nd Circle! Boiling Blood!¡±

    ¡°3rd Circle! Reaper of Life!¡± Valentia then cast her own spells towards Vanadir, with the former increasing the capabilities of Vanadir¡¯s body, while thetter allowed the de to siphon life from the enemy, restoring Vanadir¡¯s health in the process.

    ¡°[Unyielding Barrier]!¡± Being the only one left, Griselle went ahead and activated a skill that conjured a barrier around Vanadir, removing the problem of being interrupted mid-attack.

    ¡°[Wind Dragon¡¯s Four Forms: Wind Severing the Earth!]¡±

    Whoosh!

    After activating the strongest skill he could activate on his de, the speed of descent then greatly increased by a few times. Just as he was about tond on the ground with great force, he then twisted the de he held, giving it a bit of piercing force as he felt that this attack would finallye to fruition.

    Feeling great excitement, he then shouted, ¡°[Vanadir Coalition Supreme Art]!¡±

    ¡°[Four Supreme Dragons Ravaging the Heavens]!¡±

    Bang!

    Without encountering any obstacles, the de Vanadir was holding had cleanly pierced through the ground, with only the hilt and the handle being seen on the surface. Soon after, arge shockwave could be felt throughout the training grounds before the earth started to crack intorge chunks as a loud muffled explosion resounded throughout the area.

    Seeing the effects of the attack, Vanadir could not help but feel ecstatic as he looked at the others, who were looking at him with smiles on their faces as well. But just as he was about to tell the others what they were going to do next, all five of them heard the sound of faint pping from a distance, which proceeded to gradually get louder.

    Not long after, the sight of a man wearing ck clothes had entered their vision as he said, ¡°Well, well, well. Looks like my younger brother is actually interested in the throne. Who knew that brother of mine who seemed to be disinterested back then would have an interest in it right now?¡±

    In an instant, Vanadir took in a deep breath as he knew that resolving things through violence was not the best solution here, especially when one considered the man in front of him. Taking on a cold yet serious tone, he then asked the ck-clothed man with a light yet mocking chuckle, ¡°To think that you would be out here for a walk. Shouldn¡¯t you be preparing for the war for the throne with your team members¡­

    Big Brother Arshe?¡±

 Chapter 340: Signs of Awakening

    Chapter 340: Signs of Awakening

    ¡°Are you sure about your choice, Argentum? Although I¡¯m repaying kindness with kindness, don¡¯t go too overboard,¡± Melzarin responded through the connection they had, emanating a surprisingly strongbat intent, which was aimed towards Argentum. Eleanor and the others could not help but look at Melzarin with slight shock, wondering what was going on.

    As for Argentum, he went ahead and applied all of the buffs he could onto himself with the amount of energy he currently had in his body to resist the pressure. Even though he had the option of binding Melzarin in ce if ever he made a move on him, he felt that there was no need to do so since in the first ce, he was in the wrong¡­in the moral sense anyway.

    Scratching his head as he let out an awkward chuckle, Argentum went ahead and removed the connection connecting him with Melzarin, Felix, and Rosalia as he looked at Melzarin and said, ¡°I know not to go too overboard, but considering what I¡¯ve done for you is almost fatal to any other Normal-grade Pseudo-Animate out there, don¡¯t you think such a reward is fitting?¡±

    ¡°What¡¯s going on between the two of you?¡± Rosalia could not help but look back and forth between Argentum and Melzarin before asking. While that was happening, Eleanor arrived to where Rosalia, Felix, Argentum were standing, an aura of curiosity radiating from her.

    ¡°Argentum, after what you¡¯ve done for me, I¡¯ve already considered you as a good friend of mine,¡± Melzarin said in a solemn tone as thebat intent surrounding him gradually intensified. ¡°If you still want us to stay as friends, then I¡¯d suggest asking for a reward other than the ownership of my inheritance.¡±

    ¡°Huh. Surprisingly, I was expecting something like this to happen between the two eventually,¡± Felix could not help but say. Not long after, Eleanor chimed in as she said, ¡°Then again, the reason why he can achieve that strength is due to what he has done, though his buffs are no joke.¡±

    ¡°What are the two of you talking about?¡± Rosalia¡¯s ears perked up as she listened to the conversation Felix and Eleanor were having, prompting her to ask the two this question. In response, Felix imitated the sound of one clearing their throat as he answered through a strand of energy while pointing at Argentum, ¡°You can hear quite well that Argentum is asking for ownership over Melzarin¡¯s inheritance, right? Although I¡¯m not sure if he¡¯s serious or not in that regard, all I know is that he¡¯ll definitely settle for a partial ownership¡­since that¡¯s what he asked from us two quite some time ago.¡±

    ¡°Are¡­are you serious?¡± Rosalia could not help but mutter in response, utilizing the connection Felix had created. Soon after, Eleanor butted into the conversation as she sent a strand of energy of her own, saying, ¡°It is true. Haven¡¯t you noticed that we¡¯ve be slightly weaker than thest time you met us?¡±

    ¡°Well, Felix has his own ways of strengthening himself so I wouldn¡¯t even notice the difference,¡± Rosalia replied to her question with a tone of confidence. ¡°As for you Eleanor, your strength is like that of a gori even if part of the ownership over your inheritance is given away, so I wouldn¡¯t notice the difference as we¡ª¡±

    ¡°Hm? Did you just say I¡¯m a gori?¡± Eleanor hastily appeared in front of Rosalia, grasping her tightly by the head before lifting her up. Not only that, one could even see that the mes surrounding her body were gradually turning dark. With that, Rosalia hastily replied as she waved her hands in disapproval, ¡°I didn¡¯t say anything! I didn¡¯t say anything!¡±

    Soon, Rosalia was brought down as Eleanor let out a light chuckle as an aura of glee exuded out of her.

    ¡°I see,¡± Eleanor soon said, which gave both Rosalia and Felix the shivers.

    While that was happening, Melzarin and Felix were having a different conversation.

    ¡°You did tell me that I could ask for anything in exchange, right? If that¡¯s the case, why are you barring me from gaining ownership over your inheritance?¡± Argentum asked in response to Melzarin¡¯s previous words, prompting thebat intent surrounding Melzarin to intensify once more as ayer of armor was gradually forming over his body. With a slightly cold tone, Melzarin looked at Argentum and said, ¡°Don¡¯t push your luck if I were you.¡±

    Hearing that, Argentum let out a light chuckle as he said, ¡°I guess this is what I could consider as the limit. Alright, I won¡¯t ask for you to give up your ownership over the inheritance anymore.¡±

    With Argentum¡¯s words resonating around his sense of hearing, Melzarin could not help but let out a sigh of relief as hisbat intent started to gradually disappear. But just as it was continuing to dissipate, it gradually returned once Argentum said his next statement.

    ¡°Although I can¡¯t ask you to give up your ownership, how about a partial ownership instead?¡±

    Seeing as there was no way for him to dissuade Argentum from eyeing his inheritance, Melzarin felt that him asking for a partial ownership was still leagues better than asking for full ownership. With a light sigh as thebat intent surrounding him had truly disappeared, Melzarin then asked him, ¡°How much control do you want over the inheritance?¡±

    ¡°You sure you want me to choose that?¡± Argentum could not help but ask, to which the dark skeleton replied with a nonchnt shrug, ¡°Well, I did say that you could choose anything, though I rejected your offer of full ownership over my inheritance. I still want our rtionship to be good, so wouldn¡¯t giving you control over how much of a share you want over my inheritance be a step in the right direction?¡±

    ¡°I like the way you speak, Melzarin,¡± Argentum said whileughing with slight glee. Soon after, he asked him, ¡°How about a 50-50 cut?¡±

    ¡°Lower,¡± Melzarin sinctly replied. Although he was fine with Argentum asking for a specific amount of share from him, that didn¡¯t him he would hastily agree to it.

    ¡°40?¡±

    ¡°Lower.¡±

    ¡°35?¡±

    ¡°Lower.¡±

    ¡°30?¡±

    ¡°Even lower than that.¡±

    ¡°Man, you told me I could choose the amount of control I have over the inheritance. Howe you¡¯re being so stingy?¡± Argentum could not help but say as he had a hunch that this final offer of his would possibly work out. ¡°25 percent. Surely, this amount would be fine, right?¡±

    At this point, the conversation between Rosalia, Felix, and Eleanor had finished, prompting the three to look at the current state of Melzarin and Argentum¡¯s bargaining session. Hearing the offer that Argentum gave to Melzarin, Felix could not help but radiate an aura of slight mockery as he let out a malicious chuckle.

    ¡°Knowing Melzarin, he¡¯ll definitely ept that offer,¡± Felix said, to which Eleanor pondered over for a bit before speaking her mind. ¡°Yeah, pretty high chance.¡±

    As for Rosalia, since she did not know the feeling of having someone else own a part of her inheritance, she just watched, eager to see if Argentum¡¯s offer would be epted.

    Fortunately for Argentum, after remaining silent over the offer for quite some time, Melzarin let out a light sigh before lightly nodding. Scratching his skull, Melzarin looked at Argentum and said, ¡°Alright. I¡¯ll settle for 25 percent. Of course, I¡¯ll only agree if we create a spirit contract.¡±

    ¡°Why would I reject something like that?¡± Argentum asked a question in response to Melzarin¡¯s words before letting out a light chuckle. Soon after, the two of them underwent the usual procedures of a spirit contract. After a minute or so, both of them felt that they had a faint connection to one another, signaling that the spirit contract was a sess.

    Letting out an aura of glee, Melzarin then said to the new co-owner of his inheritance, ¡°I¡¯ll make sure to give you your share of the inheritance once I head back to the inheritance. For now¡­¡±

    He then looked at the three that were listening to their conversation and said, ¡°How about you guys help me tidy up this area?¡±

    Felix and the other two then looked at each other before letting out a light chuckle, tacitly agreeing that they would help out. As for Argentum, he went ahead and rubbed his hands as he felt that restoring thendscape in front of Melzarin¡¯s inheritance would be a good way for him to be more familiar with manipting earth.

    And so, the five of them went ahead and started to fix thendscape, chatting about their lives while doing so. Naturally, while they were talking about themselves, Argentum could not help but mention about his goal of achieving the element of Lesser Origin, which the other four felt that he had a high chance of doing so, given how he was more powerful than peers at his current grade.

    Some timeter, while the others were still helping out in removing the charred bits of earth from the area, Felix went closer to Melzarin, who was taking a break, and said, ¡°You know, Argentum would¡¯ve probably epted a 20% share of your ownership. Don¡¯t you feel a hint of regret from doing such a move?¡±

    ¡°Naturally, I do feel regret,¡± Melzarin said in response as he continued to recuperate his energy. Soon after, an aura of slight excitement surrounded him as he continued, ¡°Nevertheless, that little Pseudo-Animate might just do something that we couldn¡¯t. I¡¯ll just think of it as a worthwhile investment in the long run.¡±

    In response to his words, Felix went ahead and conjured a ball of cold water, which he then dropped over Melzarin¡¯s head, instantly making Melzarin shiver. Without hesitation, Melzarin hastily stood up and started to conjure spikes made out of dark earth, seeing how Felix was running farther and farther away from him.

    ¡°Oh no, you don¡¯t!¡±

    ¡°Catch me if you can, slowpoke!¡±

    And with that kind of atmosphere covering the whole restoration process of the area, the five of them had finally finished restoring thendscape to how it was by the time the next day¡¯s afternoon had arrived. At this moment, the five of them were lying down on the ground, recovering their energy with auras of satisfaction around them.

    Soon after, all five of them stood up as they decided that it was time for them to separate. Melzarin went ahead and headed back to his inheritance, telling Argentum that he would get it sorted out as soon as possible. As for Felix, he left the other three after telling them that he had to prepare something for the market, or whatever it was.

    With Eleanor, Rosalia, and Argentum being the only ones in the area, Rosalia then looked at Argentum and asked, ¡°So, should we go?¡±

    ¡°Sure.¡± Argentum nodded, prompting Rosalia to cover him in her energy. As for Eleanor, she went ahead and cover him in her energy as well, saying, ¡°I¡¯ming as well.¡±

    Hearing that, Rosalia could not help but let out a light chuckle before saying, ¡°Alright, then.¡±

    Whoosh!

    And just like that, the three of them then made their way to Rosalia¡¯s inheritance, the Supreme Terra Firma Inheritance.

    ¡­

    While that was happening, something else was going on in the Verdant Blossom Branch Alliance.

    Horell nonchntly walked through the corridors of the Tower of Seclusion, making sure to scan each and every room if there was a being there. While doing so, he could not help but let out a light sigh as he muttered, ¡°Why did Herellia and Argentum choose me to do this? Cermalia and Harriott are still here, wouldn¡¯t they be better off as the acting leader instead of me?¡±

    Although he said that, he was making sure that he was doing his job properly, even going out of his way to greet the members of the alliance when he came across them. After some time, he arrived at a certain floor of the Tower of Seclusion, instantly feeling arge spike in energy in the surroundings.

    Normally, Horell would panic since he did not know where such arge spike would havee from. Fortunately, before Herellia and Argentum delegated the job of acting leader to him, Argentum, in particr, told him of what was going in the Tower of Seclusion.

    Scratching his head as he continued to walk through the corridor, he muttered to himself, ording to Argentum, ¡°There¡¯s still about a week or so until Aurus finally finishes his evolution to X-grade Inanimate.¡±

    ¡°Haah. To be honest, if Aurus wasn¡¯t evolving, I¡¯m pretty sure he would¡¯ve been chosen as the acting leader of the allian¡ª¡±

    Whoosh!

    Out of nowhere, arge wave of energy washed over his body, prompting him to instantly sense where it had originated. Unsurprisingly, it did not take him too long to find where it hade from, given how he was close to it from the start.

    ¡°Aurus¡­¡± Horell muttered as he looked at the direction of the room Aurus was staying in. Just as he thought that it was over, the floor he was in started to rumble loudly, making him think that there was more to what was happening to Aurus.

    And so, without hesitation, he dashed to where Aurus was staying, wanting to find out what was going on.

 Chapter 341: Meeting of Tempest and Gale

    Chapter 341: Meeting of Tempest and Gale

    Bang!

    Without hesitation, the door to Aurus¡¯ room was opened with all the force Horell could muster through his arms. With a single nce, he could instantly tell that something weird was going on inside the room. At the moment, the density of energy within the room had risen to a level to where the alliance wouldn¡¯t even be able to achieve, shocking Horell even more once he found out that this spike was rted to Aurus¡¯ evolution process.

    While he was wondering why this spike in energy was taking ce, he noticed that a few Inanimates were situated at the side of the room farthest from Aurus, all of them radiating auras of shock, fear, surprise, and even joy at times. Although he did not recognize all of them, he did recognize the two Aurus had brought out back then when they fought against Chonk, even with their figures changing.

    Focusing his vision onto the two while he looked at the state of Aurus¡¯ green cocoon from time to time, he then sent a message to the two through a strand of energy as he rummaged through his memories, trying to recall their names.

    ¡°Uh¡­Charisa and Fenrir, was it? Could you two tell me what¡¯s happening to Aurus?¡± Horell asked the two of them, which prompted the two to focus their senses of vision towards him with slight shock. The two then focused their vision on each other as they sent a few messages back and forth. Not long after, they finally responded to Horell¡¯s question, with Fenrir deciding to be the one to respond first.

    ¡°If my guesses are correct, your name is Horell, right?¡± Fenrir asked, to which Horell lightly nodded in response.

    Seeing that they had gotten it correctly, both Fenrir and Charisa let out inward sighs of relief before answering Horell¡¯s question as Fenrir said, ¡°To be honest, I don¡¯t know what¡¯s happening to Master at the moment.¡±

    ¡°What do you mean by that? Surely you have been by his side all this time, right?¡± Horell could not help but ask, to which Fenrir replied, ¡°That is indeed the case, but¡­¡±

    ¡°This just happened all of a sudden.¡±

    Hearing Fenrir¡¯s words, Horell pondered over the matter for a bit, wondering if it had something to do with Aurus¡¯ evolution process. As far as he knew, all evolution processes had no surprises like these. If there were, it would happen near the end of the process.

    With that in mind, he looked at Fenrir and asked, ¡°How many days does he have left before he¡¯s done with his evolution?¡±

    ¡°Around 8 to 9 days more.¡± This time, Charisa was the one who answered the question, prompting Horell to find the current situation even weirder. Although he knew that there were tons of exceptions to evolution processes, seeing it firsthand was still surprising to him.

    Since he had obtained confirmation from the two that they had no clue as to what was going on with Aurus¡¯ body, he decided to get closer to Aurus¡¯ cocoon, wanting to see if he could find any peculiar going on with his body at the moment.

    Casting a fewyers of defensive magic on his body in case any stray bits of energy attack him out of nowhere, Horell then took in a deep breath as he stepped forward, muttering to himself, ¡°Why am I leader again¡­?¡±

    Fortunately, no stray bits of energy had attacked him, even when he was about to a couple of steps away from colliding with the cocoon protecting Aurus¡¯ body. At such a close distance, Horell could see what was going with Aurus¡¯ body even without investigative magic.

    ¡°Man, Aurus looks more human-like than even me,¡± Horell could not help but say as he clicked his tongue, looking at every inch of Aurus¡¯ body from head to toe.

    Unlike Horell, Aurus¡¯ current figure had now taken on a more humanoid form, with the face having the usual figures one would find on a human face, definitely a far cry from his appearance before. Of course, distinguishing him from a real human was quite simple since the color of his body was that of dark jade green. Add on the fact that a crown made out of the same materialposing his body was found on top of his head, then that would sum up Aurus¡¯ current appearance.

    With around a week remaining before Aurus was finished with his evolution, theyer of green energy protecting Aurus was quite thin. Surprisingly, this thinness allowed Horell to find out that there was more going on with Aurus¡¯ body at the moment, noticing that there was ayer of faint white energy over his body¡­which was connected to somewhere else.

    Following the path of this faint white energy, he found out that the faint white energy was connected to the ceiling of the room Aurus was in, but he felt that the energy extended for far longer than that, with his view only being limited to the confines of the room.

    Just as he was about to ask the two as to when that faint white energy that connected to the ceiling had appeared, all traces of faint white energy had disappeared in an instant as the density of energy in the room had returned to its normal state. At this point, Horell and the others were at a loss for words, not knowing what was going on. Fortunately, a few secondster, they finally obtained a clue as a disembodied voice resounded throughout the room.

    Of course, with their current amount of knowledge, those words were more or less akin to gibberish for them.

    ¡°From this day onward, the thirteenth Spiriveritas of Erudinia has been born.¡±

    ¡°The other twelve have unanimously agreed that the name of this Spiriveritas shall be¡­¡±

    ¡°Verdante.¡±

    ¡­

    While Horell and the others were wondering as to what the disembodied voice told them, Eleanor, Rosalia, and Argentum were having a leisurely time making their way to the Supreme Terra Firma Inheritance.

    With the fiasco that was Melzarin and Eleanor fighting because of the intervention of someone else, even though Argentum¡¯s intent in the first ce wasn¡¯t even resolving it, the three of them decided to take their sweet time while making their way to Rosalia¡¯s inheritance.

    Of course, at first, Argentum was slightly against it since he still had to increase his understanding of Wind and Fire to the True Element level, but after remembering that he had unlimited ess to Eleanor¡¯s inheritance and her stash of Heaven¡¯s me Potions, as well as the fact that he was naturally a Wind Elemental, he eventually considered this to be a small break for himself.

    With that, the three of them made their way through various towns and locations that had beautiful sights, with Rosalia hunting a few beasts every once in a while to whip up a meal for herself, given how she was an Animate that needed to eat. As for Eleanor and Argentum, they just went ahead and upied themselves with other things while Rosalia was eating.

    By the time they had taken about two days to travel, the three of them had finally arrived at the entrance of the Supreme Terra Firma Inheritance with rxed and delighted expressions all around by the time the sun was at its peak.

    Snapping her fingers, the three of them were taken to the inside of the majestic castle made out of earth in front of them, appearing inside a roomplete with the amenities an Animate could ever have a few secondster.

    Naturally, this was the ce where Rosalia would go and rest. What one would not expect is that this ce was also the ce where Rosalia would moderate the inheritance, modifying it as she deemed fit for every potential inheritor that entered. At the very instant they appeared in the room, Rosalia pointed towards the bed she would normally sleep on and said to the two, ¡°Make yourselvesfortable for now. Would you like any drinks or snacks to munch on¡­¡±

    ¡°Ah, right. You two don¡¯t need to do that,¡± Rosalia lightly chuckled at her own joke for a bit as she continued, ¡°Well, give me a minute or two. Let me just change into some better clothes.¡±

    In response, the two of them lightly nodded as Rosalia opened up a corridor that led to another portion of the inheritance, leaving Eleanor and Argentum to themselves. Deciding to sit down on the bed, Argentum looked at Eleanor and asked her, ¡°So¡­how did you be friends with her?¡±

    ¡°Long story short, we became friends while we were fighting,¡± Eleanor replied sinctly before asking, ¡°Surprising that I know an Animate, no?¡±

    ¡°Not really,¡± Argentum slightly shook his head as he replied. ¡°To be honest, I expected you to know more Animates at your level of power.¡±

    ¡°To be honest, me as well,¡± Eleanor said in response as she let out a light peal ofughter. Not long after, Argentum let out a bit ofughter as well.

    After that, the two of them continued to talk about certain stuff, like how Herellia and Blob were doing in the inheritance, what Eleanor was nning to do with the Heaven¡¯s me Potions, and so on. Around five minutes into their conversation, a corridor into the room the two were in was opened, revealing Rosalia, who was wearing clothes that were more on the casual side.

    ¡°Shall we tour my inheritance?¡± Rosalia looked at the two with a light smile and asked. Eleanor and Argentum looked at each other for a bit and stood up from her bed, tacitly agreeing with her offer. Just as they were about to start touring the whole inheritance with Rosalia as their tour guide, Rosalia looked at Argentum and said, ¡°I almost forgot to give this to you. Take this as a gift.¡±

    Whoosh!

    In less than an instant, Rosalia pointed at Argentum as a light brown dot appeared on the tip of her finger. This light brown dot then headed towards Argentum¡¯s direction, being absorbed by his body not long after as a notification sound resounded in his mind.

    Ding!

    ¡®You have obtained the active skill [Scripture of Nature¡¯s Blessing].¡¯

    ¡®You have obtained the passive skill [Desecrated Inheritance: Partial Ownership].¡¯

    ¡®Huh. I can see that Rosalia gave me the first skill, but did it really take Melzarin that long to give me ownership over the inheritance?¡¯ Argentum could not help but to think to himself as he looked at his notifications. Although there was a chance that he ignored the notification while the three of them were making their way to Rosalia¡¯s ce, he eventually thought that obtaining itter was better than never.

    With all of that out of the way, they then toured Rosalia¡¯s inheritance. With great enthusiasm, Rosalia exined the purposes and the thought processes she had for the rooms she made for the inheritance. The bedroom she usually slept in, the rooms she allotted for the trials the potential inheritors would take, even the room where all of the treasures she used as prizes were shown to them without worrying about being stolen from.

    By the time the tour was over, it was already nighttime. The three of them were inside Rosalia¡¯s bedroom, with both Eleanor and Argentum sitting on the ground while Rosalia gasped for air as sheid down on her bed. With her talking nonstop throughout the tour, it wasn¡¯t surprising to see Rosalia in that state, given how a corridor to the room was opened, revealing a Wind-based Pseudo-Animate carrying a pitcher of water, a few sses, and even some snacks to munch on.

    ¡°Here you go, Master. A full pitcher of water, some sses, and your favorite snacks, just like you told me,¡± the Pseudo-Animate said to Rosalia as it ced down those times on the desk beside the bed. In response, Rosalia let out a light giggle as she sat up and said, ¡°Thank you for doing this, Argento.¡±

    In response, Argento let out a light sigh as he replied, ¡°You should really do this yourself next time, Master. I¡¯m not some sort of servant, you know. I became your disciple to learn under you, not to be some servant at your every beck and call.¡±

    ¡°Just let me indulge in this feeling for once,¡± Rosalia said in response, only for her to be silent for a bit as she noticed Argentum was looking at her disciple with a hint of interest. In less than an instant, an idea was already brewing inside her mind, prompting her to inwardlyugh as she asked Argentum, ¡°Are you curious as to who he is, Argentum?¡±

    ¡°Somewhat,¡± Argentum briefly said as he felt that there was a high chance that Rosalia wouldn¡¯t tell her his identity since she asked him that question. Instead, what happened was the exact opposite, with Rosalia lightly smiling before introducing Argento to him.

    ¡°His name is Argento,¡± Rosalia said. ¡°Just like you, he¡¯s a Wind-based Pseudo-Animate. He has be my disciple for only one reason.¡±

    With his interest slightly piqued, Argentum asked, ¡°And what reason would that be?¡±

    Feeling that Argentum had taken the bait, Rosalia lightly giggled as she knew that Eleanor would react differently to her response. Nevertheless, she responded with what she had on her mind, much to Argentum¡¯s surprise.

    ¡°Well, to achieve Lesser Origin, of course.¡±

 Chapter 342: Is This Even a Fight?

    Chapter 342: Is This Even a Fight?

    ¡°Huh?!¡± At the very instant Rosalia gave her answer to Argentum¡¯s question, Argentum, Argento, and even Eleanor let out sounds of shock and surprise in response, though thetter hastily let out a light cough as she returned to her normalposure. As for Argentum and Argento, they looked at each other for a bit before the former decided to take the initiative to start a conversation.

    With an aura of shock still surrounding him, he went ahead and asked Argento, ¡°Are you seriously aiming for Lesser Origin?¡±

    ¡°Not at all.¡± Argento shook his head as he replied, ¡°I¡¯m aiming for Tempestuous Terra Firma. I don¡¯t even know what Lesser Origin is.¡±

    ¡°Seriously? You don¡¯t know what Lesser Origin is?¡± Argentum replied to his statement with a question, to which Argento lightly shook his head.

    ¡°Well, Lesser Origin is basically the fusion of the four foundational elements,¡± Argentum decided to exin what Lesser Origin was, prompting Argento to ponder in silence for a bit. After that, he then said to Argentum, ¡°Yeah, I can¡¯t do that. That¡¯s too difficult for me.¡±

    ¡°Anyways, since you told me what Lesser Origin was, I¡¯ll tell you what Tempestuous Terra Firma is. It¡¯s basically a fusion of the Wind and Earth element, with more importance over Wind rather than Earth,¡± Argento said not long after. He then asked Argentum, ¡°Is there an element that¡¯s focused on Lesser Origin?¡±

    ¡°As far as I know, not really,¡± Argentum went silent for a bit before answering. ¡°If my memory serves me right, the aim of Lesser Origin is to achieve a bnce between all four elements.¡±

    ¡°Then again, I¡¯m quite surprised to find another Pseudo-Animate like me who¡¯s aiming to fuse elements into one,¡± Argentum could not help but say after that, letting out a chuckle in the process. In response, Argento let out a bit ofughter as he responded, ¡°Same here.¡±

    While the two of them were conversing about Lesser Origin and Tempestuous Terra Firma and whatnot, Eleanor went ahead and sent a strand of energy to Rosalia, who was looking at the current situation with a light smile on her face.

    ¡°What are you trying to achieve?¡± Eleanor said through the strand as their connection was established. In response, Rosalia looked at her and replied, ¡°I¡¯m pretty sure you already have an idea on what I¡¯m trying to achieve, Eleanor.¡±

    Hearing Rosalia¡¯s words, Eleanor looked at the two for a bit as a conclusion formed in her mind. After a while, she asked Rosalia, ¡°You¡¯re trying to make them fight each other?¡±

    ¡°Exactly,¡± Rosalia lightly nodded before exining why she was doing this. ¡°Through this fight, I would be able to see Argentum¡¯s might firsthand while being able to see Argento¡¯s progress under my tutge as well.¡±

    ¡°Of course, the main reason why you did that was to see Argentum¡¯sbat power, right?¡± Eleanor asked, to which Rosalia unabashedly replied with a hard nod, ¡°Uh-huh.¡±

    ¡°Didn¡¯t he help out in pacifying me back at Melzarin¡¯s ce?¡± Eleanor asked, recalling how she was bound to the ground thanks to Argentum¡¯s skill.

    Rosalia soon replied as a response, ¡°He did, but he didn¡¯t engage inbat at all. At most, his role was to enhance ourbat powers. To be honest, the effects of his enhancements are terrifying to say the least, given how he¡¯s still a Normal-grade Pseudo-Animate.¡±

    ¡°Huh¡­¡± Eleanor uttered a sound in understanding, though there was still slight confusion over the matter.

    ¡°What grade of Pseudo-Animate are you at?¡± While Eleanor and Rosalia were conversing in secret, Argentum continued to talk with Argento, his aura of shock now reced with that of excitement as he asked.

    As for Argento, an aura of excitement surrounded him as well as he had never felt so close to another being like Argentum. Without hesitation, he responded, ¡°Normal-grade. You?¡±

    ¡°Normal-grade as well,¡± Argentum said, prompting the two to let out a bit ofughter before instantly going silent. Not long after, the two of them eyed each other from head to toe, knowing very well that the being in front of them was far stronger than the usual Normal-grade Pseudo-Animate, having the ability to fight a Magic-grade or even a Grand-grade Pseudo-Animate if they put their all into it.

    After bing satisfied with their precursory examinations, the two of them lightly nodded at each other as they simultaneously asked, ¡°Wanna be friends?¡±

    Realizing that they spoke at the same time, both of them let out a chortle as the two of them knew that this day onward, they would surely keep in touch. Unfortunately for them, it seemed that the world wanted something else to happen as Rosalia stood up just as they wereughing.

    Noticing this, the two of them went silent as they focused their senses of vision onto her, wondering what she was going to do. By the time Rosalia had opened her mouth to say what she had on her mind, Argentum and Argento looked at each other for a bit before looking back to Rosalia, only for Argento to ask, ¡°Are you serious, Master?¡±

    ¡°Why wouldn¡¯t I be?¡± Rosalia said in response to her disciple¡¯s question as she said, ¡°Let me repeat that one more time. Argento, go ahead and fight against Argentum with all you¡¯ve got.¡±

    ¡°But what if Argentum says no to it?¡± Argento asked a question of his own in response to his master¡¯s words. Feeling that his words made sense, Argentum nodded as he said, ¡°Yeah. What if the two of us aren¡¯t in the mood to fight?¡±

    ¡°Not in the mood, eh?¡± Rosalia said with a light chuckle as she closed her eyes for a bit in silence. Soon after, she opened her eyes as she told them, ¡°How about this? Whether one side wins or loses in this fight, both of you would be able to obtain anything you want from this inheritance. Of course, this only applies to Argento.¡±

    ¡°As for Argentum, you have a chance to obtain anything you want as long as I can give it to you,¡± she soon added. ¡°Does that sound good?¡±

    In less than an instant, the two of them were instantly motivated, with Argento thinking that his master was finally giving him something useful while Argentum thought that he would be a partial owner of another inheritance. Knowing very well that they could just fake their way through the fight, the two of them instantly agreed to the proposition, eliciting a light smile brimming with hidden intent to appear on Rosalia¡¯s face.

    As for Eleanor, who was watching this unfold, could not help but let out a sigh as she muttered to herself, ¡°The oue to this match is more or less a given at this point.¡±

    Nevertheless, she was curious as to how much Argentum had improved from thest time she saw him, so she let things happen as natural as the four of them made their way to a room Rosalia hastily created.

    ¡­

    Entering the room, both Argentum and Argento felt that there was enough space for them to use all of the skills they could unleash one another without hesitation, although they both tacitly agreed to not go all out on each other.

    Just as they were about to head to the center of the room to start their fight, Rosalia stopped the two of them with a smile on her face as she said, ¡°Give me just one second.¡±

    Snap!

    With the snap of her fingers, arge amount of energy was soon released from her body as it headed towards the center of the room, transforming into a magic circle that had a diameter the size of the whole room. Not long after, Eleanor and the other two felt that there was an eye looking at them, prompting Argento to send Argentum a message through a strand of energy.

    ¡°It seems Master has found out that we weren¡¯t going to get serious at all,¡± Argento said to Argentum, to which thetter responded, ¡°I can sense that. Since that¡¯s the case, let¡¯s just go all out. Whether we lose or win doesn¡¯t make much of a difference in our reward.¡±

    ¡°Well, that is true,¡± Argento said with a shrug of his shoulders as he dispelled the connection between them. Soon after, the two headed to the center of the room, positioning themselves on opposite sides. Seeing that they were now ready to engage inbat, Rosalia raised her hand as she went through the rules she made up on the spot.

    ¡°Alright. Since this is an Earth-based inheritance, the only skills you can use other than hand-to-handbat are skills of the Earth element. Also, you cannot use any enhancement skills on yourself or any debuffing skills on your opponent. Are we clear on that?¡±

    ¡°Yes!¡± the two simultaneously replied, not minding the limitation. With their approval, Rosalia then waved her down with full force as she shouted, ¡°Fight!¡±

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    In less than an instant, the two of them charged at each other. Though, from the start, Argentum already had an edge over Argento given how his stats were boosted to a higher degree thanks to his partial ownership of Melzarin¡¯s inheritance. With that, it did not take long for Argentum to appear in front of the still charging Argento, catching thetter off guard.

    ¡°Take this!¡± Argentum shouted as he clenched his fist before covering it in ayer of Earth energy particles. Channeling all of the strength in his body towards his fist, he then punched out towards Argento¡¯s face, forming a small sonic boom in the process.

    Fwoosh!

    Unfortunately for Argentum, Argento hastily ducked the straight punch as he channeled all of the energy in his body, conglomerating it towards his hands as two broadswords made out of earth appeared, using it to sh at Argentum¡¯s torso in an X pattern.

    ¡°[Mountain Crossde]!¡±

    Swoosh!

    Utilizing the momentum he had generated from the punch, Argentum then rotated his body counterclockwise, allowing him to dodge most of the attack, with only the tip of one de slightly nicking at the right side of his torso.

    Off to such a fierce start, the two of them looked at each other with an aura of interest and surprise surrounding them as Argentum said, ¡°I think this fight is worth going all out.¡±

    ¡°I think so as well,¡± Argento said in response before standing up and shing out towards Argentum once more in an X pattern. This time, though, he infused his des with Earth energy particles, allowing him to send de after de made out of earth towards Argentum.

    ¡°[Mountain de Frenzy]!¡±

    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!

    Of course, with Argentum¡¯s speed being higher than Argento¡¯s, he easily dodged all of the des that were sent towards him with tons of room to spare. With that, he led Argento to circle around his current spot, slightly dizzying him as Argentum asked him, ¡°How are you holding up?¡±

    ¡°Pretty good,¡± Argento said in response as he stopped following Argentum. Soon after, he plunged both of his swords onto the ground before channeling a great portion of his energy through it, causing the earth to rumble for a bit. Surprisingly, this threw Argentum off his usual rhythm for running, prompting him to stop in ce as he muttered to himself, ¡°Yeah, I guess this is enough stalling.¡±

    With that in mind, he then dashed to where Argento was as he said, ¡°Let¡¯s settle this with one more move. Give it your all!¡±

    ¡°Alright, then! I won¡¯t hold back!¡± Argento said in response, retrieving his swords from the ground before using Earth energy particles to fuse the two into a double-handed sword. Using all of his might, he then ced the double-handed sword on his back before infusing more and more energy into it.

    As for Argentum, he hastily went through the spell creation module of [Sage¡¯s Earth Magic], namely the Blessed spell portion of the module. With the skill not being raised yet, there was only one slot for a True Earth spell, which he had already used to create a defensive skill. Although he could remove it and reced for another spell, he felt that the spell he had made was a good fit for the element of Earth.

    Not only that, but he felt like a Blessed spell was enough for the attack he had in mind, given how his stats were boosted by Melzarin¡¯s inheritance. Although he was not sure as to how much of a boost it gave, from the feeling his body gave him, he knew that the boost was not insubstantial at all.

    Coming up with a straightforward move in his mind, Argentum hastily made a Blessed Earth spell that would fight against Argento¡¯s ultimate move, relying on the belief that the boost from Melzarin¡¯s inheritance would help him out.

    Opening up his right palm, he then cocked his right arm back, channeling all of the strength and energy in his body towards it as the surface of the palm had taken on a bright brown hue. As for Argento¡¯s double-handed sword, arge swath of Earth energy particles were now circling around it, ready to be released at a moment¡¯s notice.

    By the time the gap between the two was less than a meter, the final moves from both sides were ready, prompting Argentum to shout, ¡°Now!¡±

    ¡°[Mountain Cleaver: Sundering Earth]!¡±

    ¡°[Terra Palm Wave]!¡±

    Bang!

    Propelled by great amounts of energy, Argento¡¯s double-handed sword and Argentum¡¯s palm imprint had collided, eliciting arge explosion to ur as a great amount of dust had been kicked off the ground. While that was happening, the two pushed their bodies close to each other, allowing more of their attacks¡¯ force to affect the other side.

    Unfortunately for Argento, the amount of force in Argentum¡¯s palm imprint was just too much for him to handle, sending him and his double-handed sword flying. Of course, with Argento being sent flying, that meant that their match was over. Though, once Argentum looked at his palm, which still had traces of Earth energy particles around it, he could not help but look at Argento, who was now stuck one of the room¡¯s walls and ask himself, ¡°Is this even considered a fight?¡±

    As for Rosalia, she could not help but look at Argentum from a new light as she did not expect suchbat power to appear in such a low-grade Pseudo-Animate. Noticing this, Eleanor looked at her and asked, ¡°So, are you satisfied now?¡±

    ¡°More than satisfied,¡± Rosalia said with a chuckle as she disabled the magic circle covering the whole room. Taking in a deep breath, she then announced.

    ¡°The match is now over. The winner of this match is Argentum!¡±

 Chapter 343: Preparing for the Final Stretch

    Chapter 343: Preparing for the Final Stretch

    ¡°One¡­two¡­heave!¡± With the match between the two of them now over, Argentum went ahead and helped Argento out of the hole he had created from the attack. Fortunately, it only took Argentum about five pulls at full power for Argento to be free from the Pseudo-Animate shaped hole he was in.

    Removing all of the rubble and dust that had stuck onto his body, Argento then looked at Argentum with both awe and shock as he was not expecting the Pseudo-Animate he had just be friends with to be so powerful. At most, he expected that Argentum was only around 10-20% stronger than him. Never in his mind did he think that a single move from Argentum would send him flying.

    Pondering over the reasons why Argentum won against him, Argento then recalled their earlier talk about the fusion of elements and such, prompting him to ask the former, ¡°So, is your power because of you trying to achieve Lesser Origin?¡±

    ¡°Well¡­I guess you could say that,¡± Argentum replied with a light yet awkward chuckle, knowing very well that most of his power hade from the inheritances he was partly owning. Nevertheless, he was quite surprised that another Normal-grade Pseudo-Animate like him had also undergone their first Power Baptism, prompting him to add, ¡°But you know, you never told me that you underwent your first Power Baptism.¡±

    ¡°And neither did you,¡± Argento said with a giggle.

    ¡°True,¡± Argentum responded not long after,ughing as well.

    Afterughing at each other for a while, Argento went ahead and asked Argentum a question that had lingered in his mind ever since thetter had unleashed his final move.

    ¡°Say¡­could you show me how to do that move you just did?¡± Argento asked with a hint of nervousness, knowing very well that there was a high chance of Argentum rejecting. Fortunately, Argentum did not find anything wrong with sharing his skills, given how he could change it on the fly if he wanted to. And so, with that in mind, he responded, ¡°Sure.¡±

    Seeing that the two were going to take a while in the room Rosalia had haphazardly built, Rosalia asked Eleanor, ¡°Could youe with me to the storage room for a bit? I just need to grab some stuff to reward Argento with.¡±

    ¡°Alright, then.¡± Eleanor lightly nodded, feeling that Rosalia was doing this in order for both Argentum and Argento to deepen their connection.

    And so, with the two now alone, Argentum went ahead and started teaching Argento the technique he had used as his final move. Surprisingly, it did not take long for Argento to understand the mechanics behind the technique, prompting Argentum to say to him, ¡°You¡¯re quite a fast learner.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s what other beings say about me most of the time,¡± Argento said with a light chuckle before cocking his right arm back. He then channeled a great portion of energy towards his right palm as it was soon covered in ayer of Earth energy particles. Not long after, he pushed out with all his might, allowing a decently sized palm imprint to move for a few meters before dissipating from theck of energy.

    ¡°[Terra Palm Wave]!¡±

    Whoosh!

    ¡°Well, I guess I could consider you to be at the basic mastery of the skill,¡± Argentum said after Argento was done showing off his progress with the move, even though he had just used that skill for the first time in that fight. Of course, hearing that what he had done so far was just at the basic mastery level of the skill, he was now curious as to what the skill looked like at the highest possible mastery achievable.

    ¡°Could you show me the full power of the [Terra Palm Wave]?¡± Argento asked with a hint of excitement and curiosity in his tone, making Argentum instantly regret the fact that he said that. He then went silent for a bit, wondering what he could do to make it seem like he had reached the highest level possible for the skill. Fortunately, it did not take long for an idea to surface in his mind as he felt that it would work.

    Imitating the sound of one clearing their throat, Argentum went ahead and said, ¡°Alright, then. I¡¯ll show you the full power of the [Terra Palm Wave], but just this once.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll definitely keep my sense of vision peeled,¡± Argento said as he profusely nodded.

    Taking in a deep breath, Argentum went ahead with the idea he had in mind, silently activating the enhancement skills he had in his arsenal as he looked at Argento and said, ¡°At full power, the [Terra Palm Wave] isn¡¯t really called that anymore, but rather, it relies on the fusion of the elements you¡¯ve mastered along the way. For me, the peak of this skill would be called the [Lesser Origin Palm Wave]. While for you, it could be called the [Terra Tempest Palm Wave] or the [Gale Mountain Palm Wave] or whatever.¡±

    As he cocked his right arm back while allowing more and more Earth energy particles to coalesce around it, he continued to activate more and more of his buffs, allowing him to give off an aura that grew more terrifying by the second.

    While that was happening, he continued to exin, ¡°Also, I don¡¯t really have full control over this stage, but essentially, you¡¯ll have to condense arge amount of strength in a short amount of time, which is a sign that you¡¯ve achieved the peak of this skill. Combine the two things I¡¯ve said and you¡¯ll definitely wipe out your foes in one move.¡±

    ¡°I see,¡± Argento said as the aura around him radiated more and more excitement, wanting to see the full power of the skill he had learned in action.

    By the time Argentum was finished powering up his move, Eleanor and Rosalia had finallye back from the storage room, only to see that Argentum and Argento were standing in ce. Of course, they noticed the move that Argentum was doing, wondering what was going on with his palm as the two of them noticed that the four elements converged around it.

    Fortunately, the answer to their questions did not take long to arrive as Argentum looked at Argento and said, ¡°Step back.¡±

    Lightly nodding, Argento distanced himself from Argentum, allowing Argentum to do his thing as he pushed his legs to the limit, making it seem like he had teleported in front of one of the room¡¯s walls in an instant. Soon after that, he pushed with his right palm with all his might as he shouted, ¡°[Lesser Origin Palm Wave]!¡±

    Silence.

    For a second, a deafening silence could be heard throughout the room as all three looked at Argentum with curiosity and anticipation. And then¡­

    Bang!

    Like the birth of a universe, a giant imprint with a diameter around five times Argentum¡¯s height had appeared on one of the walls like it was there in the first ce. Naturally, multiple cracks started to spread from the palm imprint, though for some reason, most of it stayed intact as the palm imprint continued to dig in deep for a meter before stopping.

    Seeing that, even Argentum was left at a loss for words as he did not expect that he could unleash so much power at once. Argento, on the other hand, looked at therge palm imprint with an aura of extreme amazement as he shouted, ¡°Amazing!¡±

    As for Rosalia, she looked at the palm imprint that was made before looking at Argentum with an expression of shock. As for Eleanor, although there was a hint of surprise on the aura surrounding her, the lightughter that came out of her soon after made one think that she was more or less expecting this level ofbat power from him.

    ¡°If I fought against Argentum at his level¡­I would¡¯ve definitely thought he was the scarier onepared to you, Eleanor,¡± Rosalia could not help but say, prompting Eleanor to respond with, ¡°You¡¯ve definitely got that right.¡±

    After making sure that they¡¯ve regained theirposure, Eleanor and Rosalia went up to the two of them, with Rosalia looking at Argento and saying, ¡°As I¡¯ve said earlier, whether you win or lose, you¡¯d still have a chance of obtaining anything from my inheritance. Since it took some time for the two to learn from each other, I decided to bring some of my most precious treasures to you. So, which one would you pick?¡±

    Argento looked at the items Rosalia had brought with her and went silent for a bit as he knew that the choice he would make here would affect his progress in the long run. Fortunately, one of the items that Rosalia brought had made him feel like it was a worthy investment, so with the item in mind, he said to Rosalia, ¡°I would like to choose the book, Master.¡±

    ¡°Good eye,¡± Rosalia said with a light chuckle before giving the book she had to Argento, who received it with both arms. She then said to him, ¡°At your current level, you can only master the firstyer of the [World Ultimatum Art]. But even with that limitation, you could still fight against a Grand-grade Pseudo-Animate on even grounds¡­perhaps even best them.¡±

    ¡°As for you, Argentum¡­¡± With Argento¡¯s reward being given out, she then shifted her focus onto Argentum, who had just understood something that would get him closer to Lesser Origin from the attack he had done. Fortunately, Rosalia¡¯s interruption was after he had been enlightened by what he had done, allowing him to allot his full attention onto her.

    ¡°What reward would you like?¡± she asked. At first, Argentum was about to respond that he want to be a partial owner of her inheritance, but then, he felt that he had already be the partial owner of quite a decent amount of inheritances. Of course, there was no problem with him bing the partial owner of another strong inheritance, but he felt like this chance of his was better spent on something else¡­like towards the progress of him achieving Lesser Origin.

    And so, that¡¯s what he exactly did.

    ¡°Could you give me uh¡­¡± Argentum organized andpiled all of the materials he needed to create the Heaven¡¯s Wind Potion before sending it to her in a strand of energy. Upon receiving it, Rosalia was surprised to hear some of the items, knowing very well that they were hard to procure. Just as she was about to decline his request, Argentum then sent another strand of energy with a message that said, ¡°If you help me out, I¡¯ll give you a recipe that would allow your perception over the Earth element to increase.¡±

    In response, Rosalia narrowed her eyes as she pondered over the matter for a bit. Eventually, she let out a sigh as she said, ¡°Fine, fine, fine. I¡¯ll help you procure the materials you need. Of course, you should give me the recipe first.¡±

    ¡°dly,¡± Argentum said with a light chuckle before sending the recipe for the Heaven¡¯s Earth Potion to Rosalia through another strand of energy. She then made sure to check the ingredients and the instructions of the recipe, as well as its effects. Within seconds, she knew how valuable this type of potion was, prompting her to say through a strand of energy, ¡°Once I start selling this Heaven¡¯s Earth Potion in the market, I¡¯m sure it¡¯ll be a highly profitable item. Would you like to get a cut of the profits once I do start selling it?¡±

    Argentum pondered over the matter for a bit, thinking of rejecting the proposal, only to remember that he was the leader of an Animate town. With that in mind, he knew that having money in reserve was a good thing, so he lightly nodded and said, ¡°That would be great. As for the share, that shall be up to your conscience.¡±

    ¡°Trust me on this one. I won¡¯t give you a share that you¡¯ll be disappointed with,¡± Rosalia said with a light smile through the strand of energy connecting them before dispelling their connection. With Eleanor now being able to listen in on their conversation, Rosalia then asked Argentum, ¡°So¡­where should I send the materials once I procure them?¡±

    Argentum went silent for a bit before replying, ¡°Just send them to Eleanor¡¯s inheritance. I¡¯ll be staying there for a while to increase my understanding over the Fire element.¡±

    ¡°Aww¡­you¡¯re leaving?¡± Argento, who was listening to their conversation, could not help but say. In response, Argentum let out a light chuckle as he replied, ¡°Rx, man. I¡¯ll make sure to visit you from time to time.¡±

    ¡°How about I apany you on your trip, Argentum?¡± Eleanor offered to Argentum, only to be shot down by Rosalia as she said, ¡°No can do, Eleanor. Didn¡¯t you promise me that you¡¯d spend time with me for a week?¡±

    ¡°Hehe.¡± Eleanor let out a light chuckle before letting out a short sigh. Soon after, she pondered over something for a bit before sending an orb of red energy towards Argentum, which his body easily absorbed. Not long after, he felt that each step he took would allow him to traverse hundreds of meters in an instant, prompting him to look at Eleanor with shock, gratitude, and confusion at the same time.

    With a light giggle, she said, ¡°I have a hunch that you need to go somewhere as fast as possible, so here I am, helping you with that. Make sure to stay safe, okay?¡±

    ¡°Why would I actively face danger for no reason?¡± Argentum said with a chuckle before looking at Rosalia and saying, ¡°Please send me out of the inheritance.¡±

    With a nod, Rosalia said to him, ¡°At the very least, it¡¯ll take a day for me to procure all of the items. Before then, stay in Eleanor¡¯s inheritance, okay?¡±

    ¡°Will definitely do,¡± Argentum responded just as Rosalia snapped her fingers, teleporting him to the outside of the inheritance.

    And just like that, Argentum was well on his way back to the me Spirit Inheritance.

 Chapter 344: One Step Closer

    Chapter 344: One Step Closer

    XXXX Continent, Inferno ins.

    Whoosh!

    ¡°Haah¡­haah¡­¡± Under the rays of sunlight only found in the early morning, a Pseudo-Animate radiating three colors at once could be found in front of an abandoned building at the inner region of the Inferno ins, seemingly catching its breath even though it had no need for stamina. Nevertheless, this Pseudo-Animate was none other than Argentum, who had exhausted an amount of energy far beyond what his body could normally hold.

    Fortunately, it did not take long for him to return to normal as he allowed the energy flowing throughout his body to bnce out. While doing so, he could not help but mutter, ¡°Although a journey like that would normally take me days to trek back and forth, it¡¯s still surprising that I could actually reach this ce in a matter of hours.¡±

    ¡°I wonder how long it¡¯ll take me to reach a level where I could do something like that?¡± he continued to mutter as he pondered over something for a bit. Soon after that, he focused the energy in his body towards a certain point, forming a sigil that allowed him to be recognized as an owner of the me Spirit Inheritance. Normally, Eleanor would be the one forming the sigil to allow Argentum to enter the inheritance. But since Eleanor was away at the moment, Argentum had to create his own sigil, which was taught to him through the spirit contract they made.

    Utilizing this sigil, it did not take long for Argentum to appear in the room where Eleanor usually looked over the inheritance. Taking a quick look around, he then went silent for a bit as he stood in ce, wondering what he needed to do before he would go ahead with his ns of increasing his understanding of the Fire element to the True Element level.

    Around half a minute or soter, he then sent a bit of energy into the sigil he had created, allowing a corridor that connected to one of the other rooms in the inheritance to form. Using his enhanced senses, he could see a familiar silhouette at the very end of the corridor, sitting in front of a desk as it held what seemed to be a brush. Lightly chuckling from the sight, he then walked through the corridor in a leisurely manner, making sure to not disturb the silhouette.

    Thankfully, by the time he had arrived at the other side, closing the corridor behind him, the silhouette had let go of the brush it was holding, looking at Argentum with an expression of slight surprise as it said with a tone of glee, ¡°Argentum, you¡¯re back!¡±

    Not long after, it noticed how overboard its reaction was, prompting a faint shade of red to appear on its face as it let out an awkward chuckle. This silhouette was none other than Herellia, who Eleanor had taken under to learn everything that a new Animate should need to know. Even though Eleanor left Herellia off on her own in this inheritance, she still gave her something to do, which in this case, was to practice her writing skills.

    Radiating an aura of slight glee, he looked at Herellia before looking at the parchment filled to the brim with symbols, somerge and rough, some small and smooth. Naturally, Argentum knew that Herellia was trying to improve her proficiency with the alphabet of the continent they were in, making him ask her, ¡°Eleanor told you to practice writing before she left?¡±

    ¡°Uh-huh,¡± Herellia said in response, lightly nodding. After that, she wrote a few more symbols that corresponded to the various letters of the alphabet before cing the brush she used for writing beside the parchment. Stretching out her arms, she then stood up before grabbing a ss of water from a table near her. After making sure that she drunk enough to fulfill her needs for the day, she let out a sigh of satisfaction before sitting in front of the writing table once more.

    ¡°How did your journey go?¡± Herellia asked with eyes beaming with curiosity. Ever since she had be an Animate, she could not help but feel that her current life had be boringpared to her previous life of being the leader of an alliance. Nevertheless, Eleanor told her that it would only take her another week or two to know everything she needed to know before she could do anything she wanted.

    Of course, Eleanor made sure to include fighting in the things she had to relearn, shocking her as she noticed that the amount of power behind every move she made was multiple times stronger than even a hundred attacks in her Inanimate form, without taking buffs into consideration. Unsurprisingly,bat training was the only thing she looked forward to while she was here in the me Spirit Inheritance.

    ¡°It went well,¡± Argentum briefly responded, though his response elicited a light frown to pop up on Herellia¡¯s face. At first, he was confused as to why Herellia would react like that. Fortunately, with the help of Aurus¡¯ memories, he knew what Herellia was trying to achieve, prompting him to let out a peal ofughter as he said, ¡°Alright, alright. I¡¯ll tell you what happened.¡±

    And just like that, he narrated everything that he had witnessed throughout this journey of his to the Desecrated Inheritance, as well as the Supreme Terra Firma Inheritance. While doing so, he also wondered if he should hide a few things from her like how Eleanor went berserk. In the end, he decided to spill everything since Herellia had been with him ever since his original body had joined the Tempest Branch Alliance¡­though he did omit Eleanor going berserk.

    By the end of his narration, Herellia looked at Argentum with an expression of awe as she could not help but imagine herself going through the same situation. She then closed her eyes for a bit, subconsciously nodding from time to time. After a while, she opened her eyes once more, a light smile on her face as she said, ¡°Thanks.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s whatpanions are for,¡± Argentum said in response, which surprisingly prompted Herellia to say, ¡°Ah, right. What brings you here all of a sudden?¡±

    ¡°To consolidate my power, of course,¡± Argentum hastily replied, remembering that he had not told Herellia of his goal of achieving Lesser Origin. Although there was nothing wrong with him telling her what Lesser Origin was, he thought that it would just confuse Herellia even more.

    Nodding in understanding from his statement, Herellia then took a deep breath before picking up the brush once more as she grabbed a new piece of parchment from under the table. She then gestured with her hands for Argentum to go do his own things as she said, ¡°Alright, you go do that while I continue practicing my writing.¡±

    ¡°Alright, then.¡± Argentum scratched his head for a bit in slight confusion before infusing a bit of energy into the sigil, allowing the corridor that connected Eleanor¡¯s room to Herellia¡¯s room to be opened once more. Just as he was about to turn and leave, Herellia said out of nowhere, ¡°Speaking of which, if you n to meet your otherpanion along the way, I think now¡¯s not the right time. At this time, I think he¡¯s still undergoingbat training.¡±

    ¡°Got it,¡± Argentum nodded before walking through the corridor back to Eleanor¡¯s room, closing the corridor behind him once he stepped foot into the ce he had first appeared. He then made his way to the center of the room before sitting down cross-legged,manding the system to open up his inventory a few secondster.

    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!

    Not long after, multiple small rifts appeared in front of Argentum, dropping down a few sks filled to the brim with viscous red fluid, with some falling over others while they were being summoned. These sks were none other than the Heaven¡¯s me Potions that Eleanor had concocted and given to Argentum quite some time ago. Although he had 20 of them in his possession at the moment, he could not help but remember the time he had consumed over 50 Heaven¡¯s Water Potions only to achieve the True Element level of understanding for the Water element.

    With that in mind, he dispelled the sigil he used to control the various portions of the inheritance before going ahead and rerouting the energy in his body towards a certain point, allowing him to connect with a certain being soon after.

    ¡°What¡¯s up, Argentum?¡± Since he was in the me Spirit Inheritance, it was no surprise that the one Argentum had contacted was Eleanor. ¡°Do you need anything from me?¡±

    ¡°Yeah,¡± Argentum said in response, dragging the veryst syble of his response for a bit. ¡°Could I grab some more Heaven¡¯s me Potions from you? I think I¡¯m gonna need quite a sizable amount of it.¡±

    ¡°Are you going to try and achieve the True Element level of understanding for the Fire element?¡± Eleanor could not help but ask, slightly surprising Argentum for a bit, only to conclude that Felix had talked about the various levels of understanding with Eleanor once he had obtained his hands on it. Nodding in response even though she wasn¡¯t there, he responded, ¡°Exactly. I think now¡¯s the perfect time for me to try and attempt achieving Lesser Origin.¡±

    ¡°I see,¡± Eleanor said, going silent for a bit. Not long after, she then told him, ¡°Head to the storage room. At the very far end of the room, turn left and you¡¯ll see a pile of Heaven¡¯s me Potions I¡¯ve been saving for selling. Of course, you shouldn¡¯t feel guilty that you¡¯re using them since you¡¯re the one who gave me the recipe to concoct them in the first ce.¡±

    Even though Eleanor said that, Argentum still felt a bit guilty, prompting him to say, ¡°I promise I¡¯ll repay you for this in the future.¡±

    With that said, he then thought of repaying Felix in the future as well for giving him Heaven¡¯s Water Potions. After talking for a bit more, the connection between the two had been cut off as he infused energy into his control sigil, allowing a corridor that led to the inheritance¡¯s storage room to be created.

    It did not take long for Argentum to arrive at the storage room, though it did take a while for him to reach the very far end of the room, even with a couple of movement speed buffs activated. Either way, at the very moment he had arrived at that point, he then turned left, only to be left at a loss for words as the amount of Heaven¡¯s me Potions he could see with his field of vision was far beyond what he had expected.

    ¡°So that¡¯s why Eleanor told me to not feel guilty,¡± Argentum said as he could roughly count that the number of sks he could see with his sense of vision was around in the hundreds range. Taking into consideration the number of sks it took for him to achieve the True Element level for the Water element, he went ahead and took around 50 sks to bring the total number of sks he had to 70, making sure to grab a bit extra since it would take him quite some time to get back to this ce.

    Activating more movement speed buffs to hastily get out of the storage room and head back to Eleanor¡¯s room, Argentum went ahead and sat down in front of the sks he had summoned from his inventory before cing all of the sks he grabbed from the storage room beside those. Taking in a deep breath, he then went ahead and drank up the contents of one sk, increasing his perception of the Fire element to a higher level.

    With that, he then conjured tendrils inside the cavity in his upper torso where the Tome of the Four Elements was located, flipping through the pages of the book before stopping at the section of the Fire element,mitting everything to memory before going ahead and starting the enlightenment process.

    By the time he had consumed 12 sks worth of Heaven¡¯s me Potions, his progress in terms of understanding the Fire element had already surpassed the Animate level, being around halfway to achieving the True Element level. Unfortunately for him, just as he was about to consume his 13th sk, a message was sent to him through a strand of energy, prompting him to let out a sigh of slight annoyance, though that did not stop him from appearing at the entrance of the inheritance.

    Whoosh!

    With an aura of slight annoyance surrounding him, Argentum went ahead and entertained the visitor who had appeared in front of the inheritance, Rosalia. Of course, he was somewhat shocked to see Rosalia here after a day since she did say that it would take a day for her at the very least to procure the items he needed. Taking into consideration the amount of time it took to arrive here, it meant that Rosalia only took around half a day or less to procure everything.

    Snapping her fingers with a light smile on her face, arge swath of Earth energy particles appeared in front of the two before transforming into the various items Argentum had asked from her¡­though the quantity was far beyond what he was expecting.

    ¡°Isn¡¯t this much more than what I asked from you?¡± Argentum asked, wondering if there was a catch to their seemingly equivalent exchange. In response, Rosalia replied, ¡®It is, but it¡¯s worth it whenpared to the recipe you¡¯ve given me. I¡¯ve tested out the waters for the Heaven¡¯s Earth Potion and they¡¯re instantly selling like hotcakes. As thanks, I¡¯ve decided to add more portions of the items you needed¡­though it was mostly because Eleanor told me you¡¯d need more of it for something.¡±

    ¡°Tell Eleanor my thanks, then,¡± Argentum let out an awkward chuckle before telling Rosalia that he did not need any help in storing it inside the inheritance. Even though Rosalia was slightly curious as to what Argentum was going to do to move so much stuff at once, she decided that she shouldn¡¯t even bother, given how she was far stronger than him.

    After making sure that Rosalia was long gone, Argentum went ahead andmanded the system to keep all of the items in his inventory before heading back to the inheritance through his sigil.

    With that done, his grind to enhance his understanding of the Fire element continued.

 Chapter 345: The Final Element

    Chapter 345: The Final Element

    XXXX Continent, Inferno ins, inside the me Spirit Inheritance.

    A few days have gone by since Rosalia dropped by the me Spirit Inheritance to give Argentum the items he had requested from her to procure. Of course, the items were none other than the items he needed to concoct the Heaven¡¯s Wind Potion, the final type of potion he needed in order to achieve the True Element level on all four elements. Although he only asked one set of items from Rosalia that would allow him to concoct around 10 or so sks, the amount he had obtained was surprisingly more than that, being around five to six sets or so, which he was naturally thankful for.

    At this moment, Argentum was still sitting cross-legged at the center of Eleanor¡¯s room as he continued to increase his understanding of the Fire element to the True Element level. Currently, arge mass of Fire energy particles surrounded him, with him acting as the center of orbit. Every once in a while, the path these particles took would change into that of an ellipse, or sometimes, it would change into an erratic pattern. Nevertheless, after a while, it would still return to that of a perfect circr orbit.

    So far, he had already consumed 50 sks, with the sun shining down on everyone gradually arriving at the peak. With the fact that each sk¡¯s effectsted for 2 hours, that meant that Argentum had been continuously increasing his understanding of the Fire element for over 4 days now.

    Fortunately, just like the saying ¡®Many a mickle makes a muckle¡¯ went, a qualitative change had finally urred around Argentum, with the Fire energy particles surrounding him a while ago turning into an ardent field that covered every nook and cranny of the room he was in. Not long after, this field hadpressed into a tiny ball of fire hovering over his head, gradually increasing its heat as the color of the me changed, with the heat exuded by the small ball of me at the end of it being akin to the sun.

    Soon after, this ball of fire exploded, turning into thousands of small wisps of fire, though there was no sound apanying it at all. Not only that, but the color of the wisps had turned gray as they gradually fell to the floor. As each wisp touched the floor, the temperature of the room gradually decreased from its smoldering hot temperature quite some time ago, eventually returning the temperature in the room back to normal.

    It was at this point that Argentum had finally opened his eyes, standing up with an aura of glee surrounding him as he said to himself, ¡°I¡¯ve finally done it. I¡¯ve finally achieved [True Fire Affinity].¡±

    Ding!

    Coincidentally, at the very instant he was finished saying those words, a notification sound resounded throughout his mind, prompting him to open it up, even though the wording of the system remained the same.

    ¡®[Animate Fire Affinity] has been upgraded to [True Fire Affinity]. Due to the inherent limits brought about by the upgraded skill, [True Fire Affinity] has reced [Animate Fire Affinity] while regressing down to C-grade Mortal level.¡¯

    ¡®Thanks to [True Fire Affinity], [Fire Resistance] has been upgraded to [True Fire Resistance], regressing down to C-grade Mortal level.¡¯

    ¡®Due to the user understanding more of the Fire element thanks to [True Fire Affinity], all active Fire-based skills and spells have been considered as incredibly inferior, prompting the system to fuse the multiple skills as one with the help of [True Fire Affinity].¡¯

    ¡®The active skill [Sage¡¯s Fire Magic] has been created. Due to the properties of the skill, the user is now able to create their own Fire-based skills and spells, using this skill as a basis. Improving the grade and level of the skill would allow the user to craft moreplex and powerful spells.¡¯

    Without hesitation, he dismissed the notification screen in his mind as he went ahead and opened up the description of [Sage¡¯s Fire Magic], namely the innate spell portion of it. Just like the other variants he had obtained so far, a domain-type spell was the first innate spell he had obtained. Though, after identifying the innate spell that came along with this new skill, he could not help but say, ¡°Well, I guess that makes sense.¡±

    ________

    [Field of Muspelheim]

    MP Cost: 25% of the user¡¯s MP gauge, 5% of the user¡¯s MP gauge for each additional 3 seconds of effect

    Understanding the intrinsic properties of Fire, the sage of fire is now able to borrow the power of the realm of fire from another ne. This spell allows the sage of fire to create a domain mimicking the effect of the foreign realm of fire, boosting the offensive abilities of those that the sage deems as its allies, turning them into warriors that could forge ahead without fear.

    When the user casts the spell for the first time, the duration of the spell wouldst for 30 seconds. Any extension of this duration would gradually consume the user¡¯s MP, with a small percentage of the user¡¯s MP being consumed for every additional 3 seconds.

    > Effect: Attack +50%, damage dealt +20%

    > Duration: 30 seconds / dependent on the user¡¯s MP regeneration rate

    Note: All spells from the [Sage¡¯s Fire Magic] skill, may it be crafted or innate, would show twice as much power inside this skill.

    ________

    Naturally, with the addition of this innate spell, he could not help but think about a scenario wherein he could cast all three domains at once. Of course, having the effects of all three domains stack on top of each other would more or less make his abilities be that of a god inside the domain, though he could not help butment the fact that the extremely potent offensive buffs he obtained from the previous Fire-based magic skill he had was now gone.

    ¡°Of course, I could still create a spell that boosts my offensive properties, but I¡¯m only limited to one now¡­¡± Argentum muttered to himself, though a thought soon surfaced in his mind as he remembered the fact that he still had a massive amount of Earth-based skills from the Desecrated Inheritance.

    Remembering how the system told him that it was up to him if he were to fuse the skills to [Sage¡¯s Earth Magic] or not, he decided that it was better to fuse those skills now than never, given how he did not have too much use for them. Of course, if he needed a certain skill for a certain moment, then he would just use the spell creation module to create one, even if it meant he would be trading power for flexibility.

    Commanding the system to fuse all of the skills he had obtained from the Desecrated Inheritance into [Sage¡¯s Earth Magic], a notification sound soon apanied a notification that appeared in his mind. Reading through it, he could not help but feel slightly confused since the notification contained something vague.

    Ding!

    ¡®You have fused a total of 832 skills to [Sage¡¯s Earth Magic].¡¯

    ¡®Your connection with the four elements have slightly increased.¡¯

    ¡°What does the system mean by connection?¡± Argentum could not help but ponder as to whether the system was talking about his damage output when using those elements or something else. In the end, he ced this thought at the back of his head as he decided to shift his focus onto the items he had obtained from Rosalia.

    Naturally, with Fire, Earth, and Water now reaching the True Element level of understanding, that only left Wind as the only element he had to ascend to the True Element level. Ironically, it was the first element his body had control over, but it was the final element he was going to master.

    Knowing very well that he had no prowess or ability in the field of concoction, he used the sigil he conjured to control the inheritance to leave the inheritance, appearing in front of the abandoned building as he set a marker on the system¡¯s map. Not long after, he activated all of the movement speed buffs he had in his arsenal, even going so far as to make three new movement speed buffs through the three [Sage¡¯s Magic] skills he had in order to shorten his travel time.

    After making sure that all of the buffs were applied, he then zoomed at the fastest speed he could muster to the Grand Blue Inheritance, aiming to have Felix concoct the Heaven¡¯s Wind Potion for him.

    ¡­

    By the time he had arrived at the entrance of the Grand Blue Inheritance, the moon was already affixed to a certain point in the sky, with the numerous stars twinkling every so often to apany the moon¡¯s faint glow. Of course, Argentum ignored that as he took in a deep breath before channeling a portion of his energy towards a certain point, allowing him to connect to Felix.

    ¡°What made you call me, Argentum?¡± Felix¡¯s voice soon resounded throughout Argentum¡¯s mind, prompting him to respond with his own question, ¡°I need you to do something for me, Felix. Could you help me out?¡±

    ¡°As long as it¡¯s something I can do, then sure,¡± Felix responded not long after, slightly wondering as to what Argentum would ask from him.

    ¡°Well, I don¡¯t know if you can do it or not, but can you concoct Heaven¡¯s Wind Potions for me?¡± Argentum asked, making Felix stay silent for a bit. Naturally, this brought a hint of nervousness to Argentum, though Felix¡¯s response soon after made him let out a light sigh of relief as Felix replied, ¡°Well, I can concoct those type of potions, no problem. You can give me the recipe, but the items for concoction¡­¡±

    ¡°I brought enough items to create 5 batches of the stuff. Would that be enough?¡± Argentum said in response, slightly shocking Felix. Though, Felix did not take long topose himself as he replied, ¡°Yes, that would be enough. Although I can¡¯t guarantee that I would be able to use all of the items to create the maximum number of sks per batch, I can still say with confidence that I¡¯d be able to turn 80 to 90% of the items into Heaven¡¯s Wind Potions.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m d to hear that,¡± Argentum said with a light chuckle before asking Felix to allow him to enter the inheritance. Fortunately, it did not take long for Felix to let Argentum in, making him appear in front of him within a matter of seconds.

    Seeing how Argentum did not bring anything along with him, Felix could not help but radiate an aura of slight confusion and anger as he said, ¡°Didn¡¯t you tell me you brought enough items for me to concoct 5 batches of the potions?¡±

    In response, Argentum said with a light nod, ¡°Uh-huh.¡±

    Whoosh!

    Soon after that, multiple small rifts appeared around Argentum, allowing all of the items he had obtained from Rosalia to appear around him. Naturally, this shocked Felix as he did not expect him to have that kind of skill in hand. Of course, he was somewhat curious as to what skill Argentum used to achieve that, even going so far as to have the urge to ask him about it. In the end, he refrained himself from doing so as he used his energy to bring all of the items Argentum summoned in one go as they headed to another part of his inheritance.

    After a while, they appeared in front of arge cauldron, the same cauldron Felix used when he was concocting the Heaven¡¯s Water Potion while Argentum was still in the inheritance increasing his understanding over the Water element. With that in mind, he could not help but ask Felix, who was organizing all of the items into neat piles, ¡°Now that I think about it, have you achieved the True Element level yet?¡±

    ¡°Pretty close,¡± Felix said in response before adding, ¡°Recipe.¡±

    Nodding in response, Argentum then sent the recipe for the Heaven¡¯s Wind Potion through a strand of energy, making sure to be clear with each and every instruction as possible. Receiving the message, Felix closed his sense of vision for a bit as he familiarized himself with the steps, as well as envisioned himself doing it.

    After a few minutes or so, Felix opened his sense of vision as he soon sent out multiple tendrils of energy, grabbing all of the materials he needed to concoct a batch of Heaven¡¯s Wind Potions. Surprisingly, since his focus towards each and every step was at the maximum, he was able to sessfully concoct a batch, though the number of sks he had obtained from the batch was around 30% of the maximum, being around 5 sks.

    Of course, Felix then went over the steps he had gone through in his head once more, refining each and every step to a level where he would be able to transform the items into the end product as much as possible. After feeling that he had gone through each step, he then continued on with the next four batches in a row, with each end result getting increasingly better and better.

    By the end of it, Felix was able to transform the materials he had obtained from Argentum into 51 sks, which was less than the amount needed for Argentum to achieve [True Water Affinity], but more than the amount needed for him to achieve [True Fire Affinity].

    Commanding the system to keep all of these sks in his inventory, he then went ahead and thanked Felix for doing such a thing, piquing Felix¡¯s curiosity in the process.

    ¡°What are you going to do after leaving the inheritance?¡± Felix asked.

    In response, Argentum let out a light chuckle as he said, ¡°Let¡¯s just say that by the time you meet me again¡­¡±

    ¡°I won¡¯t be same Argentum you used to know.¡±

    Whoosh!

    And just like that, Argentum used the control he had over the Grand Blue Inheritance to leave Felix on his own, prompting Felix to mutter to himself with a hint ofughter.

    ¡°Acting mysterious in front of me. Pfft.¡±

    ¡°Either way, I hope you achieve Lesser Origin, Argentum.¡±

 Chapter 346: Awake Once More

    Chapter 346: Awake Once More

    With the problem of having no Heaven¡¯s Wind Potions being taken care of, Argentum soon left the Grand Blue Inheritance, activating all of the movement speed buffs as he went ahead and headed to the final destination he had in mind. Of course, with Wind being the only element he had not understood to the True Element level, the destination he was heading towards was more or less a given, being the Tempest Cliff, his birthce.

    With Felix taking only a couple of hours to transform the materials he was given into Heaven¡¯s Wind Potions, the time at which Argentum had arrived was already past midnight. Although he knew that Inanimates did not care whether it was morning or night, he still opted to be as silent as possible once he had arrived at the entrance of the Verdant Blossom Branch Alliance.

    Surprisingly, just as he took a few steps inside the main hall of the alliance, a silhouette appeared in front of him, its body being made out of energy that took on a dark cyan hue. Of course, this was none other than Horell, who had been given the position of de facto leader by Herellia and Argentum before they went off their separate ways.

    Naturally, with Argentum appearing in the alliance, Horell could not help but let out an inward sigh of relief as he thought that his job as acting as the leader of the alliance would be over. But, unfortunately for him, things would not go out as he expected it to.

    ¡°Is Aurus still unconscious?¡± Argentum instantly asked Horell after greeting him with an aura of glee. In response, Horell lightly nodded as he replied, ¡°Yeah, he is.¡±

    Just as he was about to finish his response there, he could not help but remember the peculiar phenomenon that happened involving Aurus a few days ago. With this in mind, he prompted Argentum, who was making his way to where Aurus was, to stop for a second.

    Wondering why he was stopped, Argentum was about to ask him why, only to notice the aura of uneasiness surrounding Horell.

    ¡°Is there something wrong, Horell?¡± Argentum could not help but ask, slightly feeling anxious as well. Horell did not respond to Argentum¡¯s question at first, but after some time, he let out a sigh before saying, ¡°Well, something happened to Aurus a few days ago.¡±

    In an instant, Argentum thought that something had befallen Aurus, instantly making him activate the movement speed buffs he had deactivated before entering the alliance. Fortunately, Horell was able to stop him from zooming to where Aurus was as he said, ¡°Wait a minute, Argentum! Don¡¯t head there just yet. Listen to what I have to say.¡±

    ¡°If it involves Aurus getting hurt, then save it forter,¡± Argentum said in response, adamant on heading as to where Aurus was. Seeing how it would be hard to persuade Argentum to calm down, Horell decided to be straightforward and exined what happened a few days ago, saying, ¡°No, Aurus didn¡¯t get hurt at all. It¡¯s just that¡­something happened to Aurus while he was evolving.¡±

    At this point, Argentum¡¯s attention was fully focused on Horell, wondering what he meant by his statement. Taking an inward sigh of relief after seeing how Argentum had calmed down, Horell went ahead and continued his exnation.

    ¡°While doing my usual check over the alliance, I happen to arrive at an untimely moment within the Tower of Seclusion,¡± Horell said. ¡°Out of nowhere, arge wave of energy started to emanate from one of the rooms, so I tried to find out where it came from¡­¡±

    ¡°¡­and it came from the room where Aurus was in.¡±

    ¡°Naturally, I entered the room without hesitation, wondering what was going on. Of course, I saw thepanions Aurus had with him standing near one of the corners of the room in nervousness and fear since they also did not know what was going on.¡±

    ¡°Looking at Aurus, though, I noticed that there was a white thread of energy extending from his body, going all the way to the ceiling. I had a feeling that this white thread continued far beyond the ceiling, but I could only see up to the ceiling.¡±

    Horell then went silent for a bit, wanting to see if Argentum was keeping up with his conversation. Noticing a light nod from Argentum, he then continued with his narration.

    ¡°After some time, this white thread disappeared while the increase in energy disappeared as well. Of course, at this point, I thought something was off with Aurus. But do you know what happened next?¡±

    ¡°What happened next?¡± Argentum asked, his curiosity at an all-time high. Knowing very well not to drag the story, Horell replied, ¡°A voice resounded throughout the room we were in, talking about how from that day onward, the thirteenth Spiriveritas or something was born¡­something along those lines.¡±

    ¡°Spiriveritas¡­¡± Argentum could not help but repeat this term, feeling that it was somewhat familiar. He then went ahead and rummaged through Aurus¡¯ memories, wondering if he had any knowledge on it. After a while, he did obtain some knowledge about what a Spiriveritas was. Though, unfortunately, the knowledge Aurus had on them was only superficial.

    ¡®ording to Aurus¡¯ memories, a Spiriveritas is the term for a being that¡¯s part of a strong organization covering the entirety of Erudinia,¡¯ Argentum thought to himself, eventuallying to the conclusion, ¡®Does that mean Aurus is now part of this organization?¡¯

    ¡®Maybe Aurus will know more about it once he wakes up,¡¯ he thought, deciding that it was better for him to ce the thought at the back of his mind for now since he did not have any clue on what it was. As for Horell, he looked at the silent Argentum for a bit and asked, ¡°Do you know anything about it?¡±

    ¡°A Spiriveritas?¡± Argentum asked before shaking his head. ¡°Unfortunately, I don¡¯t know what that is either. Anyways, I¡¯ll be heading to where Aurus is.¡±

    With those final words, he then turned around to head to the Tower of Seclusion. Before he could get far away from Horell, Horell went ahead and asked him, ¡°Since you¡¯re here, you¡¯ll be taking over the position of leader, right?¡±

    In response, Argentum replied without looking back, ¡°Herellia chose you for the position, not me. Good luck.¡±

    Whoosh!

    And with that, Argentum went ahead and zoomed towards the Tower of Seclusion, leaving Horell alone with an aura of slight mncholy as he asked himself, ¡°Why did I join this alliance again?¡±

    ¡­

    Thanks to the small size of the alliance¡¯s ecosystem, as well as the fact that Argentum had activated his movement speed buffs, it only took a few minutes for Argentum to arrive in front of the room where Aurus was staying. Taking in a deep breath, he then gradually opened the door that led into the room before seeing the changes that had happened while he was gone.

    Naturally, the most drastic change in the room was the fact that the cocoon of energy covering Aurus was now as thin as a sheet of paper, with his body being more or less visible to everyone who was in the room. With there not being much obstruction between him and Aurus¡¯ body, Argentum could see very well with his enhanced senses that Aurus looked more like a human than he did, which he thought might have something to do with Aurus being a rare species.

    As for thepanions that apanied Aurus, once they saw Argentum enter the room, they all greeted him with joy while bombarding him questions like where he went, what he did, and so on. Of course, with him being away from them for quite some time, he took his sweet time answering each and every question they had, even going so far as to narrate what happened to him these past couple of weeks while he gone.

    Eventually, they were satisfied with the answers they had obtained from Argentum, allowing him to do his own thing, which he did. Without hesitation, he sat a small distance away from the cocoon surrounding Aurus as he went ahead and summoned a few sks of Heaven¡¯s Wind Potions from the system¡¯s inventory. Not long after, he consumed the contents of one of the sks as his perception over the Wind element had increased.

    Following that, he did the same thing, conjuring tendrils inside the cavity where the tome was located as he flipped to the section where the Wind element was exined. Using the tendrils he had conjured, hemitted and organized the information of the tome regarding the Wind element to his memory before going ahead and taking onest look at Aurus before closing his eyes.

    ¡°I wonder who will finish first, you achieving your evolution, or me achieving [True Wind Affinity].¡±

    With that, Argentum went ahead and started his process of enlightenment, gradually increasing his understanding of the Wind element to the True Element level. Of course, with his understanding over the Wind element already being at the Animate level, that meant that it would take him less sks to achieve the True Element level, though he wasn¡¯t too sure if that would be the case.

    To be honest, the only reason why he had opted to enhance his understanding of the Wind element in the alliance instead of any other ce inclined towards the Wind element was none other than Aurus. Ever since he had embarked on his journey of achieving Lesser Origin, he always took into consideration the time that remained before Aurus woke up. Even right now, while he was increasing his understanding over the Wind element, he took the time Aurus would wake up in consideration, remembering that there was only a couple of days left before that happened.

    Nevertheless, time continued to pass, with each sk Argentum downed taking up 2 hours of his time as he used it to gradually increase his understanding of the Wind element. Surprisingly, after the 2 hours of increased perception were up, he would look at the cocoon of energy for a while, taking note of how much energy in the cocoon was left before it shattered.

    And so, Argentum repeated this process until he had downed around 30 sks or so. By the time he was about to down the 31st sk of Heaven¡¯s Wind Potion he had, a change had finally urred to the cocoon of energy surrounding Aurus.

    Crackle¡­crackle¡­

    At first, the change was faint, with everyone in the room having to strain their sense of hearing to hear what was happening. But as time passed, they could clearly hear that the cocoon of energy surrounding Aurus was now beginning to crack. First, hairline cracks appeared on the surface of the cocoon, then it gradually transformed intorge cracks that looked like spider webs.

    Eventually, this spider web-like crack had covered the entirety of the cocoon before¡­

    Crash!

    In less than an instant, the cocoon of energy had shattered into a thousand pieces as they instantly transformed into green wisps of light. These green wisps of light soon coalesced around Aurus¡¯ body, which was still hovering after all this time as it gradually descended to the ground, with the green wisps acting like some sort of cushion.

    It did not take long for Aurus to truly be on the ground, with the green wisps now being absorbed by his body as the aura surrounding him had gradually intensified with each wisp absorbed. Of course, the increase was not that terrifying, though it was still considerable whenpared to the previous aura surrounding Aurus before his evolution.

    At this moment, Argentum, as well as thepanions Aurus had, looked at the still unconscious Aurus with auras of excitement and expectation on their faces. All of them were waiting for Aurus to finally wake up, eager to tell him everything that had happened while he was unconscious.

    Thankfully, it did not take long after the cocoon cracking for him to awaken as everyone felt a slight increase in energy from Aurus as a faint grunt could be hearding from Aurus.

    ¡°Mnggh¡­¡±

    Gradually, Aurus opened more and more of his sense of vision, with his other senses following suit. Eventually, he was conscious enough for him to move, which came to him naturally as he became more and more used to his new form. Unsurprisingly, the very first thing he saw¡­was his clone.

    Of course, recalling how his clone looked like before he evolved, Aurus could not help but feel surprise as his appearance was drastically different from what he looked like before. At the moment, Argentum¡¯s upper portion was made out of blue energy, his middle portion made out of brown energy, and his lower portion made out of green while his arms had red energy spiraling around it.

    At first, Aurus could not believe what he was seeing, but after feeling the connection he had with him, he went ahead and asked, ¡°Argentum¡­is that you?¡±

    In response, Argentum replied, feeling an immense amount of glee, ¡°Yes, Aurus. It¡¯s me, Argentum.¡±

    ¡°Wee back.¡±

    ¡°¡­¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m d to be back.¡±

 Chapter 347: Battle of Words

    Chapter 347: Battle of Words

    XXXX Continent, Seraph Kingdom, at the royal training grounds.

    ¡°Shouldn¡¯t be training with your members for the war for the throne, Big Brother Arshe?¡± Vanadir let out a light yet mocking chuckle as he asked the man in front of him, taking on a cold yet serious tone. Nevertheless, his gaze towards the man was one filled with vignce and slightbat intent.

    Of course, the man in front of him couldn¡¯t care less as to whether how he was viewed. As a light grin appeared on his face, the man named Arshe replied, ¡°Normally, I should be doing that¡­but taking care of my younger brothers take precedence, no?¡±

    ¡°In any case, my people are already prepared for the war for the throne,¡± he continued, the grin on his face continuing to be bigger as a confident air surrounded him. He then shifted his focus towards the other people that came with Vanadir and asked, ¡°How about your ragtag team of fighters? Do you really think they could fight against my team on even grounds?¡±

    Hearing how they were called, Valentia could not help but take a step forward in anger and shout at the ck-clothed man, ¡°Hey, you! How dare you call us a ragtag team if you haven¡¯t even experienced our full powe¡ªmngh!¡±

    Unfortunately for her, before she could even finish her words, Griselle went ahead and cover her mouth as she leaned into her ear, whispering, ¡°Valentia, you do know who you¡¯re talking to, right?¡±

    ¡°Mmnnh¡­?¡± Valentia looked at Griselle with a gaze of slight curiosity as she let out a sound in response. Seeing that Valentia was as clueless as she knew her, Griselle could not help but let out an inward sigh as she sent a strand of energy to her, allowing a private conversation to take ce.

    ¡°Fortunately, that guy thinks of us as inferior so he won¡¯t make a move on you,¡± Griselle said through her connection, prompting Valentia to ask, ¡°And that¡¯s actually a good thing? Are you really the Griselle I know?¡±

    ¡°Of course, I wouldn¡¯t act like this for no reason, Valentia,¡± Griselle replied before continuing, ¡°Didn¡¯t you hear what Vanadir called the man?¡±

    ¡°Big Brother Arshe?¡± Valentia said in response, only to be silent for a bit as not long after, an expression of realization soon appeared on her face. Her eyes widened in fear as she looked at the ck-clothed man, who was looking at the two of them with a light grin still stered on his face.

    In an instant, Valentia knew why Griselle was acting like this, prompting her to tell her through their connection, ¡°You can let go of me now, Griselle. I already know what to do.¡±

    Without hesitation, Griselle went ahead and removed her hand over Valentia¡¯s mouth, knowing very well that Valentia would now know what to say. Soon, the two of them looked at the ck-clothed man with vignce as they continued their conversation through the connection they had.

    ¡°Arshe Beliaris Seraph. To think that this guy is the Third Prince of our kingdom,¡± Valentia could not help but say with a sigh. Hearing her words, Griselle asked, ¡°Do you have a problem with him being a prince of the kingdom?¡±

    ¡°Of course, I do. Shouldn¡¯t princes be those that think of the kingdom and its citizens first before themselves?¡± Valentia replied, to which Griselle responded, ¡°Valentia, your image of a prince is too ideal. Sure, that may be the case, but not all princes have to show that kind of image.¡±

    ¡°I may just be beating around the bush by saying this,¡± Valentia said not long after, letting out a sigh once more before adding, ¡°I¡¯m just infuriated that he¡¯s one of our opponents.¡±

    While the two of them were conversing with one another, Arshe went ahead and looked at his brother in front of him with a grin still on his face as he asked, ¡°To think that the members you¡¯ve chosen would be so brazen as tosh out at me. Do you really think such a team like that would win in the war for the throne?¡±

    ¡°Whether our team would win or not is not a matter of their personalities, Arshe. Take yourself as an example,¡± Vanadir said in response, maintaining a serious expression all throughout the conversation. Hearing how he was being called, Arshe could not help but be slightly furious as he hastily grabbed Vanadir by the neck, slowly lifting him up in the process.

    Of course, Vanadir was not going to let Arshe do as he pleased. With that in mind, he then went ahead and asked, ¡°Are you really nning on trying to kill me, Arshe? You¡¯re really that confident that you wouldn¡¯t even hesitate to kill one of your brothers inside the pce?¡±

    Naturally, Vanadir went ahead and said these words as loud as possible, even going so far as to use his slight mastery over the Wind element to make sure that a few people would be able to hear his words, even from far away.

    ¡°Tch.¡± Arshe could not help but click his tongue in slight annoyance, gradually releasing his grip around Vanadir¡¯s neck as the light grin on his face was now reced with an expression of solemnity amidst rage. With a cold gaze, Arshe looked at the Ninth Prince and asked, ¡°How much would I need to pay you in order for you to join my alliance?¡±

    ¡°I wonder what made you brought up such a deal, big brother,¡± Vanadir said in response as the serious expression he had gradually turned into that of slight curiosity, all the while he was massaging his neck from the pain he felt.

    ¡°Think of it as me increasing my chances of winning, that¡¯s all,¡± Arshe said in response before asking once more, ¡°So, tell me. What price do I have to pay in order to win you over?¡±

    ¡°Are you really that adamant in bribing me in order to increase your chances of winning?¡± Vanadir asked, raising his eyebrow in the process. Seeing that his brother wouldn¡¯t be the one giving an initial offer, Arshe decided to take the initiative and raised all of his fingers up.

    ¡°10,000 gold coins?¡± Vanadir tilted his head for a bit before scoffing at the offer. ¡°Do you really think you can buy me over with just that much gold coins?¡±

    ¡°Who said each finger was equivalent to a thousand gold coins?¡± Arshe let out a slightly mischievous chuckle as he soon dropped a bomb on Vanadir and the others.

    ¡°Each finger here¡­is equivalent to a thousand tinum coins.¡±

    Bang.

    As if multiple explosions had taken ce, the four that came along with Vanadir were at a loss for words as they knew very well what ten thousand tinum coins amounted to. With each tinum coin being equivalent to a thousand gold coins, even two thousand gold coins in the ck market, ten thousand of them would already be equivalent to at most twenty million gold.

    To the four, twenty million gold was already tens to hundreds of times more than the amount of gold coins that they¡¯ve earned so far in their lives. Even for Dane and Erea, who relied quite a lot on gold coins in order for their sses to continue progressing, would see no hindrance in the path to bing strong with a capital of twenty million gold.

    As for Valentia and Griselle, a sum like that would be enough for them livevishly for the rest of their lives while still having extra to spare to give to others. Even Vanadir could not help but be swayed by such an amount, already thinking of how to spend that huge sum after distributing the amount equally.

    Fortunately, his delusions did notst for long as he hastily shook his head, though Arshe looked at him with an expression as if he had won. Feeling that now was the best chance to force Vanadir to agree, Arshe went ahead and said, ¡°So, how about it? Are you willing to ept my offer?¡±

    ¡°I¡­¡± Although the offer was incredibly tempting, the goal he had in mind would be useless once he did. Though, just as he was about to say that he was not going to ept the offer, a thought surfaced in his mind, prompting him to lightly smile not long after, which brought a hint of curiosity to Arshe¡¯s face.

    ¡°How about we change the offer?¡± Vanadir said before continuing, ¡°If you obtain an item for me, then let¡¯s just say I¡¯ll help you out in this alliance of yours.¡±

    In an instant, Valentia and Griselle hastily sent out strands of energy towards Vanadir. Unsurprisingly, the messages their strands of energy contained were the same, asking him, ¡°What do you think you¡¯re doing, Vanadir?¡±

    Even Dane, who believed that the Ninth Prince was doing the right thing, could not help but send a strand of energy of his own as he asked, ¡°Your Highness, are you sure that you can uphold what you¡¯re saying?¡±

    In response, the smile on his face became a bit bigger as he sent a reply to Dane, saying, ¡°Well, the question you should ask yourself for now, Dane, is whether or not Arshe could obtain the item I want or not.¡±

    After quelling the panic that Valentia and Griselle were feeling from Vanadir¡¯s words, the Ninth Prince then went ahead and looked at Arshe, who now had a smile that gave off the feeling that he had seemingly won. With a confident tone, he then said to Vanadir, ¡°Sure, I can do that. What item would you like me to obtain?¡±

    ¡°How about¡­the grand prize for winning the war for the throne,¡± Vanadir said in response, prompting the other four to lightly chuckle as they realized that the Vanadir they knew was still there. As for Arshe, he did not take the response kindly as he felt that Vanadir was mocking him. Without hesitation, Arshe was about to grab Vanadir by the neck once more, but before he could do so, quite a few armed people had arrived at the area, ready to resolve the situation that was going on.

    ¡°Are you alright, Ninth Prince?¡± one of the people that had just arrived could not help but ask out of concern. In response, a light yet grateful smile appeared on his face as he replied, ¡°I¡¯m fine, thank you. Nothing too bad has happened to me, fortunately.¡±

    ¡°Tch.¡± As for Arshe, he could not help but click his tongue once more, this time slightly louder than before as he felt that this brother of his was a harder nut to crackpared to his other brothers. Feeling that not much would happen even if he tried to force his way into it, Arshe decided to give up his attempt on wooing Vanadir over for now, listing him as a possiblepetitor for the war for the throne.

    Before he left, he sent a strand of energy to Vanadir, saying, ¡°This isn¡¯t over, Vanadir. I¡¯m going to make sure that trying to form your team would be a living hell. I¡¯ll make sure you either lose the war for the throne¡­¡±

    ¡°¡­or die before even getting the chance to try.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯d like to try and see you do that. While you do that, we¡¯ll be strengthening ourselves as much as possible,¡± Vanadir¡¯s response to Arshe¡¯s words were as harsh as his, not giving him the chance to back down. In the end, Arshe let out a light snort before turning around and leaving the royal training grounds, leaving the armed people that had toe to save Vanadir with slightly confused expressions. Fortunately, Vanadir exined what had happened to him before they were able to arrive, allowing them to let out sighs of relief.

    Not long after, the armed people soon left the premises, leaving the five on their own like before.

    With all of the people now gone, the five of them could not help but let outrge sighs of relief as they did not expect one of their mainpetitors toe for them all of a sudden. Even Vanadir, who seemed to have taken everything with a great amount of confidence and intelligence, was currently letting out an awkward chuckle as he madly shook his hands, saying, ¡°Man, that was scary. Even though it¡¯s just a battle of words, who knew he could be so terrifying.¡±

    ¡°What do you think we felt while we were watching you two duke it out?¡± Valentia could not help but say, with Griselle nodding not long after.

    As for Dane, he asked Vanadir, ¡°Your Highness, wouldn¡¯t this strain the rtionship that you two have?¡±

    ¡°What rtionship? Even before this war for the throne thing, our rtionship was already non-existent,¡± Vanadir could not help but say in response, only to notice that Erea seemed to be thinking about something.

    Noticing this, Vanadir went ahead and asked her, ¡°Is there something on your mind, Erea?¡±

    ¡°Well¡­¡± Erea scratched her neck in contemtion for a bit before replying, ¡°Since you told the Third Prince that we¡¯ll be strengthening ourselves before he could even get the chance of doing something harmful to you¡­shouldn¡¯t we be continuing our training?¡±

    At that moment, Valentia, Griselle, Dane, and Vanadir looked at each other for a bit in slight surprise before smiles appeared on their faces. Taking in a deep breath, Vanadir then went ahead and said, ¡°The day is still young for the five of us. Let us continue our training and pick up the pace!¡±

    ¡°Yes!¡±

 Chapter 348: The Spiriveritas Assembly

    Chapter 348: The Spiriveritas Assembly

    While Argentum and Aurus were having a reunion after being separated from each other for a month or so, another thing was happening in a continent slightly far away from where Argentum and Aurus were located.

    Mercuria Continent, within a certain region.

    In a certain region of a continent named Mercuria, one would be able to see a tree whose trunk extended for over a kilometer, while the canopy of its leaves extended for tens of kilometers. Naturally, the size of this tree made its possible for others to see from far away. But rather than eye the tree with greed or with nefarious intent in mind, all those who get a quick nce of the tree or are heading closer to the tree all have expression of reverence and awe.

    This was all due to the fact that thisrge tree had existed for more than a couple hundred thousand years before they were even born. Not only that, but this tree they revered was the reason why most of the kingdoms and nations that were formed in the continent of Mercuria were still standing strong and tall against the enemies that eyed them.

    Surprisingly, this tree housed an inheritance, the inheritance that was considered as the one of the oldest inheritances in the world of Erudinia.

    The Inheritance of Erudition.

    Inside this inheritance, one would be able to see a room filled to the brim with amenities that would normally be used by an Animate. In contrast, the being that was in the room did not look like an Animate at all¡­well, for the most part anyway.

    In terms of appearance, the being looked as human as any other human would, save for the fact that the surface of its skin looked more like the bark of a tree rather than the supple flesh of a human. Well, to be more urate, the surface of its skin was actual bark, taking on an ash gray hue due to the age of the being. As for its insides, they were as healthy as ever, with a condensed yet incredibly refined energy circting through all of the channels that existed inside its body.

    This being was the owner of the Inheritance of Erudition, who was only known by those that knew him as Erudis. Not only that, but this being was also the first Spiriveritas to ever exist in the world of Erudinia.

    At the moment, Erudis slowly scratched his head as he opened up a corridor to one of the other rooms that existed inside his inheritance. While making his way to that room, he could not help but mutter to himself, ¡°I wonder how long they¡¯re going to take before the assembly officially starts.¡±

    ¡­

    A few minutester, Erudis arrived at the room he opened a corridor towards, revealing arge round table that had twelve wooden chairs that had exquisite designs surrounding it. He then looked at the various chairs for a bit before deciding to go for one of the chairs that matched the color of his skin. After sitting down, he then closed his eyes as he circted the energy around his body along a specific path while waiting for the others toe.

    After half an hour or so, the sound of wind blowing soon resounded throughout the room, prompting Erudis to open his eyes as he looked at the being that had just appeared. Surprisingly, two beings had appeared in front of him, with the first being having its bark the color of dark violet while the other one had its bark the color of green and blue. These two beings were named Braham and Florencia, with thetter taking on a female form.

    ¡°How long have you been waiting, Erudis?¡± Florencia asked the still sitting Erudis with a bubbly tone, to which Erudis indifferently replied, ¡°30 minutes.¡±

    After that, Florencia went ahead and sat on the chair that matched the color of her bark. As for Braham, he remained silent all this time, sitting on the chair that matched the color of his bark. Although the three of them knew each other very well, not all of them were in the mood to converse, with Florencia being the only one among them that seemed to be more outgoing.

    Fortunately, it did not take long for three more beings to appear, with their barks taking on the color of brown, light green, and red respectively. Surprisingly, the one with the red bark, whose name was Pyrresca, hastily went to her chair before going ahead and saying to Florencia, ¡°How have you been, Florencia?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ve been doing great!¡± Florencia said with a light chuckle before focusing her gaze onto the two other beings. ¡°How about you two? How have you two been?¡±

    The brown being lightly smiled in response as she replied, ¡°I¡¯ve been doing fine.¡± She then pointed to the being beside her and said, ¡°Sylphen has being doing fine as well.¡±

    Sylphen, the light green being, lightly nodded in response of the being with the brown bark, whose name was Amarillia.

    They soon took their seats, leaving only half of the seats around the table vacant. Three out of the six beings that were here continued to converse, while the remaining three continued to remain silent all the while. Eventually, after another hour or so, six more beings appeared at the room all at once, prompting Erudis, the first one to enter the room, to open his eyes as he muttered, ¡°We¡¯re all here.¡±

    ¡°Everyone take your seats,¡± he soon said to the six, who followed Erudis¡¯ words without anyints. After seeing that all twelve beings had taken their seats around the round table, Erudis then went ahead and touched the surface of the table before infusing a bit of his energy into it, allowing a holographic image to appear above it not long after.

    Taking in a deep breath, he then said indifferently, ¡°Wee to the 76th Spiriveritas Assembly. I¡¯m sure I don¡¯t have to go through the basic rules of the assembly since everyone has attended a few of these already.¡±

    ¡°Anyways, let¡¯s begin with the first topic of this assembly,¡± Erudis continued. ¡°ording to Lycht, there¡¯s a small uprising going on in one of the kingdoms of the Mercuria Continent. Could you exin the matter even further?¡±

    Lycht, who had bark the color of marble, stood up from his seat and started to talk, saying, ¡°Since I¡¯ve been tasked with the responsibility of investigating the matters of the northern region of the Mercuria Continent, I¡¯ve noticed that onerge-sized kingdom now has a rebellion party forming inside these kingdoms, with some of its royalty joining it in the process.¡±

    ¡°Although I could quell this rebellion down and make it seem like nothing happened, what are the opinions of others in this matter?¡± Lycht asked. Soon, one of the beings responded to the question, his bark being the color of flesh.

    This being¡¯s name was Spirivas. With a pondering expression on his face, he said, ¡°Surely there¡¯s a reason for an uprising to happen in that kingdom. Is the current ruler corrupt or inept in any way?¡±

    ¡°As far as I¡¯ve investigated, not at all,¡± Lycht shook his head as he replied. ¡°In fact, the current ruler has been ruling over the kingdom with fairness as the main element. ording to my sources, this rebellion party only has greed and power in mind.¡±

    ¡°Quell the rebellion party, then,¡± Erudis said with indifference before looking at the others and asking, ¡°Is there any objection to this decision?¡±

    In response, all the other beings shook their heads, prompting Lycht to thank Erudis before he sat down on his chair.

    ¡°With that done, let us now move onto the second topic,¡± Erudis said after Lycht had sat down, looking at a being with pinkish bark and a being with cyan bark before continuing, ¡°Vytalis, Mannelyn, please tell the others what¡¯s happening in the Maerr-viki Continent. If my memory serves me right, it has something to do with something called a ¡®war for the throne¡¯, no?¡±

    ¡°That is correct, Senior Erudis,¡± Vytalis solemnly replied as she nodded before allowing Mannelyn to continue as she exined, ¡°ording to our sources, the current king of the Seraph Kingdom, King Zeldrion Seraph, is aiming to step down from the throne as he is aiming to ascend to the Transcendent level. With that in mind, he has created an event that would allow all of his sons to fight for the title of crown prince equally under the event known as the ¡®war for the throne¡¯.¡±

    ¡°What do the others think on what we should do about it?¡± Vytalis asked, prompting the others to chat with one another for a bit before one of the beings stood up and said, ¡°Would it affect us in any way?¡±

    This being had bark that shifted between the color gray and dark violet. Not only that, but a deathly aura could be felt surrounding him as he asked. Others knew him under the name Thanandine.

    In response, Mannelyn replied to Thanandine¡¯s question, saying, ¡°Not at all. In fact, us two just wanted you guys to know of this event urring since it seems like an event where we could affect the final result. Of course, we could go ahead and not interfere with the event at all, allowing it to happen naturally.¡±

    She then continued, ¡°But ording to what I¡¯ve heard from my sources, one of the princes participating in the event has already killed three of the other princes to increase his chances of winning the title of crown prince. I don¡¯t know if such an action warrants the move of us Spiriveritas, but I don¡¯t see why there would be no reason for us to not steer the result of the event towards the right direction.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯d suggest taking a neutral stance for now.¡± Surprisingly, Braham spoke up after Mannelyn was done, taking on a raspy tone as he talked. ¡°I have my sources in the Maerr-viki Continent as well, and as far as I¡¯ve heard from them, there¡¯s still about nine months to go before the event officially starts. I¡¯d suggest making a move around two to three months before the event starts if you¡¯re still willing to affect the results.¡±

    ¡°I agree with Braham¡¯s decision,¡± Erudis said in response before asking the others, ¡°Does anyone have any objections to this?¡±

    In response, everyone shook their heads, feeling that the decision made lots of sense. With everyone having noints towards the decision, Erudis then continued with the next topic for their assembly.

    Clearing his throat as the previous four sat back down, Erudis then said, ¡°Let us now continue with the third and final topic of this assembly. I¡¯m sure the others also have topics they want to talk about, but it would be better to talk about it in private.¡±

    ¡°This topic, though, will affect all of us,¡± Erudis continued, prompting the others to focus on Erudis¡¯ next words from the tone he took.

    Allowing the room to be silent for a bit, Erudis then exined the third topic as he said, ¡°As we all know, we have sensed an Inanimate being that has achieved the minimum requirement in terms of power and having the ability to spread its bloodline in the Maerr-viki Continent. Of course, all of us have unanimously agreed that this being would be the thirteenth Spiriveritas of Erudinia, taking on the codename Verdante.¡±

    Hearing how this final topic was rted to the new Spiriveritas, all of them instantly had a hunch as to what Erudis was about to ask, making some of them feel giddy from excitement.

    Erudis took one look at all of them before asking, ¡°Now, the question. Who would like to meet Verdante and introduce the Spiriveritas to him?¡±

    Thud!

    In an instant, a being with ck bark stood up from his seat as he hastily shouted, ¡°Me! Me! Let me be the one to meet Verdante!¡±

    ¡°Calm down, Nyll. You¡¯re from the Velkstyrne Continent, the farthest continent possible from Maerr-viki,¡± Sylphen said in response to Nyll¡¯s words, instantly reducing the excitement Nyll felt down to zero. Nevertheless, he wouldn¡¯t give up that easily, prompting him to ask Sylphen, ¡°If that¡¯s the case, who do you suggest should meet up with Verdante, Sylphen?¡±

    ¡°Well, the choice is between Mannelyn and Vytalis, no?¡± Sylphen said in response before looking at the two. Surprisingly, the two had already expected that they were going to be picked, so in a turn of events, Vytalis said, ¡°I¡¯d suggest choosing someone other than us two. Since us three are part of the same continent, we¡¯re bound to meet up eventually. It would be better to give the chance to someone from a continent closest to Maerr-viki.¡±

    ¡°So that only leaves those in Mercuria, huh,¡± Pyrresca could not help but say. In an instant, the other beings looked at the four beings that were based in Mercuria: Braham, Thanandine, Pyrresca, and the one who started the Spiriveritas Assembly, Erudis.

    Unexpectedly, Erudis stood up and looked at the others before saying, ¡°How about I go and meet up with Verdante on behalf of all of us?¡±

    Naturally, the others were shocked since it was rare for the first Spiriveritas to make a move outside the Mercuria Continent. Nevertheless, all of them felt that there was no problem if Erudis was going to meet up with Verdante since he had the most knowledge. With him asking if there was any objection, and with everyone having noints about it whatsoever, Erudis then said, ¡°I guess I¡¯ll head there once Verdante has be more used to his newfound power.¡±

    ¡°Anyways, with that the Spiriveritas Assembly is now finished,¡± he continued as he opened up a corridor that led to his room while the others were looking at him. Taking a turn to walk through the corridor, he then said the phrase that prompted the others to finally leave the Inheritance of Erudition.

    ¡°Meeting adjourned.¡±

 Chapter 349: Catching Up

    Chapter 349: Catching Up

    Maerr-viki Continent, Tempest Cliff, Verdant Blossom Branch Alliance¡¯s ecosystem, within the Tower of Seclusion.

    Seeing that their master was now awake, the sixpanions that Aurus had with him instantly surrounded him as they all radiated auras of joy and excitement since they knew that they would be able to adventure with him once again. Of course, noticing this, Argentum knew that it was a good time to step back for a bit and allow the two sides to catch up on stuff they¡¯ve missed out on.

    Fortunately, Aurus thought about it the same way, allowing them to shower him their love and concern for him as they went ahead and narrated everything that had happened in the alliance while he was unconscious for around a month.

    Naturally, they did not skip the time when Argentum told them to leave him alone with Aurus and said a lengthy monologue to him. In response, Aurus looked at Argentum, who was radiating an aura of embarrassment at the moment, and asked with a light chuckle, ¡°To think you care about me that much?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m you in a way so how could I not care about you?¡± Argentum hastily replied before continuing, ¡°Plus you have ess to my memories, shouldn¡¯t you be the first one to know if what they said was true or not?¡±

    Hearing this, Aurus could not help but let out a peal ofughter while hispanions soon followed suit. Not long after, even Argentum was letting out someughter as he felt that it was great for Aurus to be back.

    Ding!

    While Charisa and the others were still in the process of narrating what had happened while he was gone, a notification sound resounded in Aurus¡¯ mind, prompting him to stop the others as he asked them to be silent for a bit. Unsurprisingly, with the connection they had, Argentum knew that Aurus had obtained a notification from the system, prompting him toe closer to Aurus and ask, ¡°Is it the new skills that came from your evolution?¡±

    ¡°Uh-huh.¡± Aurus nodded in response as hemanded the system to open up a notification screen, even going so far as to share the content with Argentum.

    ¡®[Nine Flux Transformation] has been upgraded to [Royal Flux Reformation], increasing the limit as to which Flux could be refined up to 99 times.¡¯

    ¡®[Flux Equipment Fabrication] has been upgraded to [Royal Flux Equipment Fabrication], increasing the durability and the power of equipment crafted by the user.¡¯

    ¡®You have obtained the active ss skill [Domain of Nobility].¡¯

    ¡®You have obtained the active ss skill [Noble Awakening].¡¯

    ¡®¡­¡¯

    ¡®You have obtained the passive ss skill [Semis Regulus Seed].¡¯

    ¡®You have obtained the title [Spiritas Half-Noble].¡¯

    Just as Aurus thought that the notifications regarding skills would be over, he soon received a few more notifications, which somewhat surprised him as he did not expect that it would still be possible to do such a thing while he was unconscious.

    ¡®Due to the [Reward Sharing] skill, you have learned the passive skill [Fire Affinity].¡¯

    ¡®Due to the [Reward Sharing] skill, you have learned the passive skill [Water Affinity].¡¯

    ¡®Due to the [Reward Sharing] skill, you have learned the passive skill [Wind Affinity]. Since your affinity with the Wind element has already reached a higher level thanks to another skill, [Wind Affinity] has been fused with the higher-tiered skill.¡¯

    ¡®Due to the [Reward Sharing] skill, you have learned the passive skill [Earth Affinity].¡¯

    ¡®Due to the four elements being imbnced inside the user¡¯s body, the possibility of forming [Lesser Origin Affinity] has been calcted at zero.¡¯

    ¡°Lesser Origin¡­¡± Aurus could not help but mutter as he read this term from the notifications he had received. He then looked at Argentum beside him and asked, ¡°Are you close to achieving Lesser Origin, Argentum?¡±

    ¡°To be honest, I could already learn it a week after you started your evolution process, Aurus,¡± Argentum said in response, prompting Aurus to ask, ¡°Then, why¡­¡±

    Before Aurus could finish his question, Argentum went ahead and manipted the energy surrounding his upper torso, revealing the cavity that contained the Tome of the Four Elements he had received from Verdant Breeze Town. At first, Aurus was confused as to why a book would be inside Argentum¡¯s body, only for him to recognize the symbol on the cover of the book as he rummaged through his memories.

    Not long after, Aurus looked at Argentum with a hint of expectation and asked, ¡°So¡­have you be the owner of the tome yet?¡±

    ¡°Surprisingly, not yet,¡± Argentum responded before continuing, ¡°ording to your memories, the tome would automatically be mine once I reach an Animate level of understanding on all four elements. Three of the elements are already at the True Element level of understanding while the Wind element has already gone past the Animate level. Are you sure your memories are correct?¡±

    ¡°Why would they be wrong? Of course my memories are correct. They¡¯re the culmination of 6 nonstop years of ying Infinite Stick Evolution, you know?¡± Aurus could not help but say in response, though his tone became unsure as he continued, ¡°Then again¡­there has been a few updates ever since the being that found the tome had shared his experiences¡­so I guess the requirement has been changed?¡±

    ¡°Well, I hope the requirement is reaching the True Element level on all four elements at least,¡± Argentum said before adding, ¡°If reaching the True Element level on all four elements unlocks more levels of understanding and I need to reach those levels before being able to be the owner of the tome, then I¡¯ll just give up bing the owner of the tome as a whole.¡±

    ¡°Well, who knows?¡± Aurus said. Just as he was about to expound on his statement, he had obtained another notification from the system, which was naturally apanied by a notification sound. At first, he was annoyed to have obtained a notification from the system since he thought it was over. But as he skimmed through the notifications, he was left at a loss for words as an aura of excitement washed over him.

    Sensing this excitement, Argentum went ahead and asked, ¡°What is it?¡±

    Without hesitation, Aurus went ahead and shared the notification screen to Argentum, allowing him to view the same notification screen he was seeing. Unsurprisingly, after skimming through the notifications for a bit, he looked at Aurus and asked, ¡°That¡¯s actually possible?¡±

    Ding!

    ¡®You have obtained the title [The Thirteenth Spiriveritas].¡¯

    ¡®As you have be the thirteenth Spiriveritas of Erudinia, you have obtained the passive Species skill [The Thirteenth Spiriveritas: Verdante].¡¯

    ¡®As you have be the thirteenth Spiriveritas of Erudinia, you have obtained the passive Species skill [The Thirteenth Spiriveritas: Epiphany of the Tempest].¡¯

    ¡®As you have be the thirteenth Spiriveritas of Erudinia, you now have the option of ascending to the Divinity level of existence without having to evolve to the Animate and Transcendent level. You can ascend to the Divinity level of existence through the Epiphany feature.¡¯

    Although Aurus was ecstatic to find out that he now had the option to ascend to the Divinity level without even needing to ascend to a higher existence level, he still could not help but feel curious as to where these skills came from. Fortunately, Argentum had an idea on what was happening thanks to Horell, deciding to exin everything to Aurus not long after.

    ¡­

    ¡°In short, Horell saw me with a white thread that extended from my body to the ceiling before hearing a voice that announced that I was the thirteenth Spiriveritas?¡± Aurus asked as he tried to sum it up in a nutshell. In response, Argentum lightly nodded as he said, ¡°Yep. Pretty much it.¡±

    ¡°I do have information on what the Spiriveritas are, which ording to my memories, is an organization that covers the entirety of Erudinia. But from the looks of it, it seems that there is more to the term?¡± Aurus soon muttered to himself as he went ahead and identified the first skill he had obtained from bing a Spiriveritas. It did not take long for him to realize that a Spiriveritas was indeed far greater than what he initially thought after one pass through the description of the skill.

    ________

    [The Thirteenth Spiriveritas: Verdante] (Lv. MAX)

    Grade: Unknown

    Ever since the Spiritas has existed, there are those who yearn to achieve greater power while still being able to stay as an Inanimate. Fortunately, one of those Spiritii had achieved the impossible, forging a new path of evolution that would allow one to achieve Divinity without having to ascend to higher existence levels. Although the limitation was that one would have to be a Spiritas in order to be eligible, it was still greater than having no choice. Of course, to differentiate from the normal Spiritas, this Spiritas had named himself as the first Spiriveritas.

    Currently, there are twelve Spiriveritas in the world of Erudinia, with the user bing the thirteenth Spiriveritas after the twelve have unanimously agreed that the user has met the minimum requirements. Not only that, but they¡¯ve given the user a codename based on the Epiphany the user has unlocked, which is Verdante.

    > Gain the ability to ascend to the Divinity level as an Inanimate

    > Gain the ability to achieve greater power through Epiphanies

    > When fighting against those at an existence level higher than the user, the user will deal more damage to them, up to a 200% increase in damage

    ________

    Although he was happy that he had obtained a way to gain even more power, he could not help but let out a sigh as he muttered to himself, ¡°When I thought of myself as being too broken, I end up bing even more broken once my evolution finished.¡±

    ¡°Is that a bad thing? Isn¡¯t it cool to be able to fight against those at a level far higher than you without breaking a sweat?¡± Argentum asked him before saying, ¡°Just so you know, I¡¯m in the same boat as you, but it feels nice to be able to stand equally against those at a higher level.¡±

    ¡°Well, it¡¯s not really a bad thing, but¡­¡± Aurus replied before going silent for a bit. Naturally, this made Argentum lean closer in order to listen to Aurus¡¯ next words. Unsurprisingly, Aurus¡¯ next words left Argentum at a loss for words as he now understood why Aurus felt that way.

    ¡°¡­don¡¯t you think being able to show a level of power akin to Transcendents as an Inanimate is a tad too broken?¡±

    ¡°I¡­I see¡­¡± Argentum said in response before going silent. After a while, he took the initiative to ask Aurus a question, saying, ¡°So, what are you going to do next?¡±

    ¡°I guess I¡¯m going to take it easy for a while,¡± Aurus hastily replied as he remembered that he promised Herellia that he would help her obtain an All-Seeing Comprehension Leaf once he was finished evolving. With that in mind, he asked Argentum, ¡°Speaking of which, where¡¯s Herellia? I still have a promise to fulfill.¡±

    ¡°She¡¯s currently in an inheritance of a friend of mine,¡± Argentum replied not long after, prompting Aurus to ask in response, ¡°Why?¡±

    ¡°So she could learn the basic things an Animate should know,¡± Argentum answered before adding, ¡°Speaking of Animate, she finished her existence tribtion to the Animate level around two weeks or so before you woke up.¡±

    ¡°She¡¯s already an Animate?¡± Hearing that Herellia was now an Animate was a slight surprise to Aurus. Of course, with Herellia in mind, he then thought of Horell, prompting him to ask, ¡°What about Horell? Is he still in the alliance?¡±

    ¡°Yep. Before Herellia left, she designated him as the de facto leader of the alliance,¡± Argentum replied, making Aurus lightly chuckle as he said, ¡°Herellia made the right choice. Horell is definitely fit to be the leader of the alliance while she¡¯s gone.¡±

    ¡°Anyways, how about you? Do you have any ns?¡± With him answering all of Argentum¡¯s question, it was time for him to ask his questions. Of course, Argentum replied with the obvious answer to the question, saying, ¡°Well, I still need to ascend the Wind element to the True Element level of understanding. After that, I¡¯ll achieve Lesser Origin, and then evolve, I guess.¡±

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡± Listening to Argentum¡¯s response, Aurus pondered over something for a bit before saying, ¡°How about this? Achieve the True Element level of understanding for the Wind element first then we can head to where Herellia is. While I¡¯m there, you can go ahead and do what you need to do for Lesser Origin. Does that sound like a good n?¡±

    ¡°I thought you¡¯d never ask,¡± Argentum said with a light chuckle before going ahead and conjuring tendrils to bring the remaining sks of Heaven¡¯s Wind Potions closer to him. Not long after, he went ahead and consumed the contents of one sk as his perception towards the Wind element increased as usual.

    Just as he was about to close his sense of vision to increase his understanding, he said to Aurus, ¡°How about you explore the limits of your skills and do something in the alliance while I¡¯m still enhancing my understanding. It¡¯ll still take me a couple of days to achieve the True Element level.¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t mind me, Argentum. I know what I need to do. Just focus on what you need to do for now,¡± Aurus said in response, a light smile appearing on his face.

    With a light nod, Argentum soon fully closed his sense of vision, returning to his grind of achieving the True Element level of understanding for the Wind element.

 Chapter 350: Familiarizing Oneself

    Chapter 350: Familiarizing Oneself

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    As time gradually passed, more and more Wind energy particles started to condense and appear around Argentum¡¯s body before going ahead and circling around him as if he was the center of orbit. Every once in a while, the orbit of these particles would change into something else, but it would constantly return to an orbit that seemed perfectly circr.

    Aurus looked at this happening for a few minutes or so before deciding to stand up and head to where hispanions were. Of course, with all of them noticing that Argentum was in the process of enhancing his understanding of the Wind element, they knew very well not to disturb him, opting to converse with one another through the connection they had with the system instead.

    Eventually, Aurus and the others ran out of topics to talk about, although only an hour or so had passed. Pondering on what he could do to pass the time, he eventually thought of familiarizing himself with the skills he had obtained from his evolution, making his way to the door that led outside the room, with hispanions following suit.

    They then walked along the corridors of the Tower of Seclusion for a while, deciding to head to another floor to make sure that Aurus wouldn¡¯t be able to disturb Argentum even if he went all out. After choosing a room at a floor that was a few floors above the floor where Argentum currently was, Aurus went ahead and opened one of the rooms, allowing hispanions to enter first before closing it behind him.

    Of course, although he said that he was going to familiarize himself with his skills, the first thing he truly needed to familiarize himself with was his new body. Although he had been doing well all this time while relying on the information he had obtained once he had evolved, he knew that he wouldn¡¯t be able to achieve the same level ofbat power if he did not get used to his new body.

    So, with that in mind, he looked at thepanions he had with him and asked, ¡°Is it fine if you guys head into the system for a while? I need arge space to practice my skills.¡±

    Surprisingly, none of them were opposed to the order. In fact, some of them even preferred to be inside the system, like Charisa and Fenrir due to how long they¡¯ve stayed in the system for. As for Eu, Phoria, Terrence, and Marielle, they were made at a time where Aurus did not ce them into the system, so they were more curious to what the inside of the system was rather than oppose the order.

    ¡°Take as much time as you need, Master,¡± Fenrir said in response to Aurus¡¯ words. Soon after, Charisa said the same thing as Fenrir, uttering, ¡°Yeah, yeah! Take as much time as you need, Master! Me and Fenrir will go ahead and tour the four around the insides of the system while you just do your own thing. Don¡¯t worry about us, okay?¡±

    ¡°Well, if you say so¡­¡± Although he felt a bit guilty that he would be cing them in the system for quite some time, he was also thankful for the fact that they were understanding of what he wanted to do. And so, with their approval, Aurus went ahead andmanded the system to keep Fenrir and the others inside. Not long after, any traces of the six disappeared in front of Aurus¡¯ field of vision, leaving him alone to himself a few secondster.

    Well, although he said that he would like to be alone, he still needed someone to keep himpany while making sure that he would be as productive as possible. Hence, with a bit of trepidation, he went ahead and asked, ¡°Theresa, are you there?¡±

    Whoosh!

    Not even an instantter, a small woman wearing a maid outfit appeared on Aurus¡¯ left shoulder, sitting on it with a grin on her face as she replied to Aurus¡¯ question, saying, ¡°Why would I disappear, Master? Theresa is always here to help you out!¡±

    Seeing that he could still summon Theresa, a light smile appeared on his face, which was something he couldn¡¯t do in his previous form. Although it felt weird to him that an Inanimate could emte emotion, it still felt more natural than being able to just radiate auras, given that he had lived as a human for far longer than a stick.

    ¡°What skill amongst the new skills I¡¯ve obtained do you think I should familiarize with first?¡± Aurus went ahead and asked Theresa beside him, prompting Theresa to ponder over the matter for quite some time. Eventually, Theresa answered, ¡°In my opinion, Master would have the most fun familiarizing with [Flux Knight]. Naturally, I¡¯ll tell Master everything he needs to know about the skill.¡±

    ¡°[Flux Knight] it is, then,¡± Aurus said in response before going ahead and doing a few basic stretches with his new body. Surprisingly, he found out that his body was more limber than the body of a human, wondering if it was due to his body being made out of Flux and Anima. With that in mind, he decided to contort his body to weird poses, finding out that he had the ability to do so, though he would not be able to hold the position for long. Either way, he was still satisfied to know that he had the ability to contort his body if need be.

    Soon after, he went ahead and did a basicbat routine, mixing in punches with kicks and some other moves. Of course, he did this to find out how much force his body could normally exert, which was unexpectedly far greater than he had initially thought.

    Eventually, he felt that he had be ustomed enough to his new body, thinking that it was now a good time to move onto the new skills he had learned from his evolution. Since Theresa told him that [Flux Knight] was an interesting skill to start familiarizing with, he went ahead andmanded the system to show the skill¡¯s description.

    Ding!

    ________

    [Flux Knight] (Lv. 1/3)

    Grade: C (Mortal)

    Once a Spiritas bes a half-noble at the very least, one gains the ability to create their own legion of protectors that would guard them until the very end of their lives. These guards aremonly known as Flux Knights, given how they are formed from the Flux that is binding the body of a Spiritas whole.

    Unlike other knight summoning skills wherein their strengths are fixed, Flux Knights, on the other hand, are able to level up and evolve into stronger forms given enough time. Some say that once a Flux Knight reaches a certain level, they would not be tied to the skill anymore and be beings that exist in the world of Erudinia permanently.

    > Maximum number of Flux Knights: 1

    > Minimum level of Flux Knights: 1

    > Maximum level of Flux Knights: 10

    FP Cost: Dependent on the initial strength of the Flux Knight being created

    ________

    After reading through the description of the skill, he now had an idea of what the skill did and what he could do it. Naturally, a few questions came to mind as he read through the skill¡¯s description, prompting him to ask Theresa, ¡°Can these Flux Knights level up if I allocate my unused experience points on them?¡±

    ¡°Yes, these Flux Knights do indeed level up once you allocate your unused experience points on them¡­¡± Theresa said in response, making Aurus more and more excited to test the skill out, only for this excitement to slightly disappear as she continued, ¡°¡­but at a cost.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯d need a thousand unused experience points to increase their experience by one point, Master,¡± Theresa said, prompting Aurus to ask, ¡°Isn¡¯t that equivalent to the conversion rate between an Inanimate and a Pseudo-Animate.¡±

    ¡°Exactly,¡± Theresa said, leaving Aurus in a state of confusion, only for him to realize what Theresa was hinting towards soon after as he asked, ¡°So, you¡¯re telling me that the existence level of these Flux Knights are at the Pseudo-Animate level?¡±

    ¡°You got it correct, Master,¡± Theresa let out a light giggle as she replied. As for Aurus, he pondered over using the skill right now or at ater time, even though Theresa told her that if he wanted to familiarize himself with something first, it would be this skill. In the end, he decided to postpone the first usage of the skill at ater time since the summoned Flux Knight wouldn¡¯t even be able to do much inside the alliance.

    ¡°Since [Flux Knight] wouldn¡¯t be able to do much inside this stone room, while the other skills are more or less straightforward, how about I shift my attention to the other skills I¡¯ve obtained that offer new effects?¡± Aurus soon muttered to himself as he opened up his skill list through the system, focusing his attention on the new skills he had obtained.

    Eventually, his eyesnded on two skills, one active and one passive. The first one was the active skill named [Noble¡¯s Mark], giving him the ability to pass on his blood of nobility onto other beings, boosting their stats in the process. As for the second skill, it was the passive skill named [Purification of Noble Blood], which did what the name of the skill implied. It was pretty much a skill that increased the concentration of noble blood inside his body¡­which made him ask Theresa a question.

    ¡°Is there really blood flowing throughout my body?¡± he asked, to which Theresa replied, ¡°Yes, Master. You do have blood flowing throughout your body, but not the type of blood you¡¯re familiar with. The type of blood inside your body is more viscous, which means it doesn¡¯t really move that much.¡±

    ¡°Well, as long as my power increases, I guess,¡± Aurus said to himself with a shrug of his shoulders before sitting down. He then went ahead and activated [Noble¡¯s Mark], only to stop midway as he remembered that he could only cast it on those he wanted to pass his blood of nobility onto. Of course, he could summon one of hispanions back so he could try the skill out, but he felt bad summoning then keeping them in a short amount of time, so he decided to shift his focus onto the second skill he had chosen.

    ¡°[Purification of Noble Blood]¡­¡± Aurus muttered to himself as he closed his eyes, allowing the skill¡¯s magic to take ce as he felt that the blood flowing throughout his body had be less viscous, bing more and more akin to the other type of blood he was more familiar with. While that was happening, every once in a while he would feel that a clogged-up area inside his body had cleared up, allowing the blood to flow more freely, giving him a wave of pleasure that spread throughout his body.

    Not only that, but with every clogged-up area that was freed up through the activation of the skill, he would obtain a notification that the purity of his noble blood had increased by 1 point, with the maximum amount of points possible for him being at a million.

    Just as he was about to stop the skill after increasing his progress bar to around 15 points or so, he remembered that it would still take a couple of days or so for Argentum to finish enhancing his understanding of the Wind element to the True Element level. With that in mind, he decided to let this skill continue operating as it would increase his overall power due to the purity of his noble blood, as well as increase the efficacy of [Noble¡¯s Mark]¡­though thetter was more of a spection.

    ¡­

    With the two doing their own things, around two days had passed since Argentum had started grinding out his understanding of the Wind element while Aurus had started grinding out the [Purification of Noble Blood] skill.

    At the moment, around 10 clogged-up areas in his body were freed up at once, giving him wave after wave of euphoria that washed over his body as he obtained a notification that his progress bar was now at around 11,000 points. Although it may not seem like a lot whenpared to the grand scheme of things, considering that he had obtained 11,000 points within the span of 2 days, it meant that he could obtain the 1 million points in about 6 months or so.

    But that was not all. He also noticed that with every point in the progress bar of the skill, the speed at which the clogged-up areas were being cleared gradually became faster and faster. At the beginning of this process, he could only remove one clogged-up areas after around a few minutes or so. But right now, he could remove around 10 to 12 clogged-up areas with every cycle.

    Just as he was about to let the skill continue operating, a massive surge of energy spread throughout the whole Tower of Seclusion, prompting Aurus to stop the skill as he stood up and hastily went out of the room he was in. While dashing to where he knew the origin was, he could not help but let out a light chuckle as he muttered, ¡°Argentum finally did it.¡±

    ¡°He finally achieved Lesser Origin!¡±

 Chapter 351: The Long-Awaited Goal

    Chapter 351: The Long-Awaited Goal

    Whoosh! Bang!

    Without a care for the world, by the time Aurus had arrived at the room where Argentum currently was, he utilized the entirety of his strength to push the stone door aside, revealing Argentum, who was looking at him with an aura of excitement and joy surrounding him.

    Of course, seeing Argentum stand like that in front of him made Aurus realize that he had been waiting for him to arrive for quite some time. Ironically enough, it was at this point that Aurus remembered that he had a skill that allowed him to teleport for long distances without consuming too much of his FP in the process. Remembering this, he could not help but let out an awkward chuckle as he asked Argentum, ¡°Am Ite?¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re just in time,¡± Argentum said in response, letting out a chuckle as he allowed the aura that came along with one¡¯s understanding of an element reaching the True Element level to spread around, making Argentum give off the feeling that he was the source of every breeze and storm throughout the alliance. Aurus, who had an affinity skill rted to the Wind element being at the Transcendent level, could not help but feel that this was the case as well, making him wonder if this was due to the difference in their understanding of the Wind element.

    ¡°Is affinity different from understanding?¡± Aurus muttered to himself, wondering if it would be worth it for him to increase his understanding of the Wind element to the True Element level as well. In the end, he decided to ce the thought at the back of his mind for now as he was still trying to limate to his new body and new level ofbat power.

    ¡°So, are we going to head to where Herellia is?¡± Argentum asked Aurus, to which Aurus lightly nodded as he responded, ¡°Yep. Since you¡¯ve achieved the True Element level for all four elements, you should try and check if you can be the owner of the tome first before going ahead and achieving Lesser Origin.¡±

    ¡°Of course, only do that once we get to where Herellia is,¡± Aurus added soon after with a light smile on his face.

    ¡°Speaking of which, should we meet up with Horell along the way before we leave the alliance?¡± Aurus asked not long after, prompting Argentum to ponder over the matter for a bit as he said, ¡°I¡¯d suggest not meeting up with Horell for now.¡±

    ¡°Hm?¡± Expecting a certain answer but getting another one instead, Aurus could not help but look at Argentum with slight confusion. Fortunately, Argentum exined his reasoning to Argentum, telling him, ¡°If you meet up with Horell right now, I¡¯m sure he¡¯ll force you to take his ce as the de facto leader of the alliance through any means possible, even if it meant your impression of him would change.¡±

    ¡°Why would he do that, though? The Horell I know isn¡¯t like that?¡± Aurus responded to Argentum¡¯s words with a question of his own, eliciting Argentum to reply, ¡°Well, I guess it has something to do with Herellia¡¯s Existence Tribtion. Ever since we finished her Existence Tribtion, Horell has be more fearful of things¡­ even though he¡¯s strong enough to take care of them.¡±

    ¡°Since I haven¡¯t really experienced an Existence Tribtion before, so I can¡¯t really say if Horell¡¯s shift in personality is warranted,¡± Aurus said. After that, he shrugged his shoulders while lightly sighing as he said, ¡°Alright, then. Let¡¯s do as you say. We¡¯ll head straight for Herellia.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re definitely not going to regret this decision,¡± Argentum let out a light chuckle as he responded before saying, ¡°Alright. Gimme a few seconds to cast movement speed buffs on both of u¡ª¡±

    ¡°There¡¯s no need,¡± Aurus interrupted Argentum before he could finish his sentence, prompting Argentum to look at him with a hint of confusion surrounding him. ¡°Hm?¡±

    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!

    Not long after, Aurus disappeared from Argentum¡¯s field of vision¡­only to appear in another part¡­then another¡­then another.

    Of course, after appearing here and there for a few times, he eventually stopped in front of Argentum once more as he said, ¡°I can teleport. Don¡¯t you remember me having that ability?¡±

    ¡°Ah¡­right. Haha.¡± Rummaging through Aurus¡¯ memories, Argentum finally remembered that Aurus did have the ability to teleport, making him let out an awkward chuckle before imitating the sound of one clearing their throat to change the topic.

    ¡°Can you teleport me along with you?¡± Argentum asked Aurus soon after, to which Aurus replied, ¡°I¡¯m pretty sure I can, though let me double check.¡±

    ¡°Theresa, can I teleport other beings with me through [Omnipresent Movement]?¡± Aurus soon asked as if he was talking to the air, prompting a small woman in a maid outfit to appear on Aurus¡¯ left shoulder, which surprised Argentum.

    ¡°As long as you¡¯re willing to spend more FP, then I don¡¯t see why not, Master,¡± Theresa replied to Aurus¡¯ question with a hint of nonchnce before disappearing a few secondster. With his question answered, Aurus then looked at Argentum and said, ¡°As you¡¯ve heard, I can bring you along with me while I¡¯m teleporting.¡±

    ¡°Who¡­¡± Argentum was about to ask who that small woman that appeared on Aurus¡¯ left shoulder was, but fortunately, Aurus knew what was going through his head thanks to [Sense Sharing]. Without any hint of suspicion, Aurus replied, ¡°That¡¯s Theresa. Think of her as the personification of the Transcending Existence System we both have.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m not sure if you can summon her, though,¡± Aurus added, to which Argentum ced at the back of his head for now since he could try summoning herter.

    And so, with Aurus telling him that he had the ability to teleport, Argentum went ahead and grabbed Aurus by the arm as he went ahead and summoned the system¡¯s map feature to ce a marker on it. He then shared this marker through their connection, allowing Aurus to find out where he had to teleport.

    After closing his eyes for a bit to figure out where he would have to appear and how many teleports it would take for him to reach the ce, Aurus soon opened his eyes as the two of them disappeared without any trace from the room they were in, hastily making their way to where Herellia was.

    ¡­

    Naturally, teleportation was multiple times faster than running at insanely high speeds. With that in mind, it only took around ten minutes or so for the two of them to arrive at the inner region of the Inferno ins.

    Surprisingly, at the very moment they appeared in the inner region, Aurus did not seem to be affected by the intense heat of the Inferno ins at all. It was as if he could not feel any heat at all.

    ¡°Don¡¯t you feel like your insides are burning up, Aurus?¡± Argentum could not help but ask, wondering if Aurus was just forcefully tolerating the pain he felt from the intense heat. In response, Aurusckadaisically stretched his body as he said, ¡°No, not really. I just feel a warm yet soothing heat covering my whole body.¡±

    ¡°Is it because of the effects of his evolution¡­ah, right. He obtained [Fire Affinity] from me,¡± Argentum muttered to himself, eventuallyughing the thought off as he felt that he had be lessposed when thinking while around Aurus. Of course, he just thought that this was because it has been quite some time since Aurus had appeared, making him feel giddy from excitement.

    Nevertheless, with the two of them appearing in front of the abandoned building that housed the me Spirit Inheritance, Argentum went ahead and formed a sigil that controlled the inheritance, only for him to stop midway as he felt that a connection between him and another being had been formed.

    ¡°What made you stop in front of my inheritance all of a sudden, Argentum?¡± Eleanor asked Argentum out of nowhere, leaving Argentum at a loss of words for a bit as he replied, ¡°Ah, I just stopped by to let one of Herellia¡¯s friends meet up with her.¡±

    ¡°Hoh? Is the friend an Inanimate?¡± Eleanor could not help but ask, to which Argentum replied, ¡°Uh-huh.¡±

    ¡°Alright, give me a second,¡± Eleanor replied before cutting off the connection between them as she used her energy to teleport Argentum and Aurus into her room.

    Whoosh!

    Not long after, both Argentum and Aurus appeared inside the room where Eleanor usually stayed, with Eleanor already standing in front of them.

    ¡°How did your week with Rosalia go?¡± Argentum asked, to which Eleanor could not help but lightly shudder as she replied, ¡°Please don¡¯t remind of it for now.¡±

    ¡°Anyways, who¡¯s this Inanimate friend you brought with you?¡± Eleanor soon focused her vision onto Aurus, prompting Aurus tomunicate with Argentum through the connection they had with their spirit as he asked, ¡°What should I say?¡±

    ¡°Whatever you do, don¡¯t reveal the fact that I¡¯m your clone or you¡¯re my original body,¡± Argentum hastily replied before adding, ¡°Then again, no one would believe us, but you know, just to be safe.¡±

    Scratching his head as he let out an awkward chuckle, Aurus responded to Eleanor¡¯s question, saying, ¡°I¡¯m uh¡­Aurus, one of Herellia¡¯s close friends.¡±

    ¡°Hoh? An Inanimate that could move like a human? That¡¯s something you don¡¯t see that often,¡± Eleanor could not help but say after Aurus was finished responding, making the two be nervous for no apparent reason. Eventually, Eleanor let out a light chuckle as she said, ¡°Alright, Aurus. Give me a few seconds. I¡¯ll let you meet up with Herellia.¡±

    ¡°As for you, Argentum. You stay here, okay?¡± she then said soon after, focusing her vision onto Argentum, who nodded in agreement to her words.

    Whoosh!

    Not long after, a corridor that led to Herellia¡¯s room was opened, prompting Eleanor to tell Aurus to just walk along the corridor to meet up with Herellia. With a light nod, Aurus went ahead and walked through the corridor, only for Eleanor to close up the corridor once Aurus was deep inside for quite a bit.

    After that, she looked at Argentum for a bit with a solemn aura surrounding her, only to let out a boisterousughter as she asked, ¡°You¡¯re about to achieve Lesser Origin, aren¡¯t you?¡±

    ¡°I was nning to keep it a secret, to be honest,¡± Argentum said in response, scratching his head as he let out a chuckle before saying, ¡°Anyways, yeah. Once I exit the inheritance, I¡¯ll be going all in to achieving Lesser Origin and then proceed with the Origin Trials after that.¡±

    ¡°How long do you think it would take you to finish it?¡± Eleanor asked, to which Argentum replied, ¡°I don¡¯t know. Maybe days, weeks, even months. In any case, if I¡¯m still not finished with the trials after a week, please send Aurus out of the inheritance.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll keep that in mind,¡± Eleanor nodded in response before going ahead and using her energy to teleport Argentum out of the inheritance. Of course, she left a few parting words along the way, saying, ¡°I hope you seed!¡±

    ¡°Thanks!¡± Argentum hastily replied before he fully disappeared from Eleanor¡¯s room.

    ¡­

    Whoosh!

    A few secondster, Argentum appeared in front of the abandoned building that served as the entrance to the me Spirit Inheritance. Not long after, he went ahead and took out the tome that was hidden inside his upper torso all this time. After that, he then allowed the affinities he had with the four elements to interact with the tome, doing the same thing as what the yer did back then in ISE when he first obtained the Tome of the Four Elements.

    Fortunately, the binding process had sessfully begun, allowing Argentum to let out arge sigh of relief as he watched the tome form tendrils of energy that extended towards his body, while his body went ahead and formed tendrils imbued with the four foundational elements of the world, gradually extending to meet up with the tome¡¯s tendrils.

    Around half a minuteter, the tendrils from the tome and the tendrils from his body had instantly contracted, bringing the tome to Argentum¡¯s body in less than an instant as it looked like the tome was fusing with his body as a whole. At first, Argentum was afraid that he would lose the tome forever, but after some time, he found out that the tome was now converting to its true form, a form that could switch between the physical and mental.

    Eventually, the connection between him and the tome had been sessfully established, now giving him the ability to summon the tome whenever he wanted, and peruse through its contents whenever he wanted as well.

    With that taken care of, he then got to the main matter at hand, which was to fuse the affinities he had with the four foundational elements into the higher tier element, Lesser Origin. Fortunately, he had already obtained a notification from the system a few seconds after he had achieved the True Element level of understanding with the Wind element.

    Without hesitation, he went ahead and summoned the notification from the system, allowing the system¡¯s feminine-sounding voice to resound throughout his mind as it asked.

    ¡°You have postponed the creation of [Lesser Origin Affinity] in order to achieve something greater, going ahead and increasing your understanding of the four foundational elements to the True Element level. Would you like to create the [Lesser Origin Affinity] skill based on this heightened understanding of the four elements? Note that by creating this, you¡¯d instantly start the Origin Trials.¡±

    Taking in a deep breath, he eventually responded with a firm tone, ¡°Yes.¡±

    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!

    Ding!

    ¡®Congrattions! You have obtained the passive skill¡­¡¯

    ¡®[Lesser Origin Affinity: Sophos Veritas].¡¯

 Chapter 352: Entering the Origin Pantheon

    Chapter 352: Entering the Origin Pantheon

    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!

    At the very instant he agreed to the prompt that allowed him to create the skill [Lesser Origin Affinity], a massive change had urred to his outward appearance. In less than an instant, the four colors that made up his current appearance: blue, brown, green, and red, decided to separate itself into four parts in the air, making it seem like Argentum had lost his body.

    Not long after, these four colors then went ahead and formed a quarter of a circle before connecting with one another once more, only to rotate on a central axis soon after that. Slowly but surely, the speed at which the circle of four colors rotated became faster and faster as the four colors ovepped with one another, gradually turning into one homogeneous color.

    Eventually, the circle stopped rotating on a central axis, revealing that the four colors hadbined into one color, which was light gray. This light gray circle of energy then gradually transformed into the shape of Argentum¡¯s body, with Argentum eventually feeling his body after a few minutes of feeling that he was only a floating entity.

    He then looked at his body with an aura of curiosity surrounding him as he could not help but notice that with his enhanced senses, the gray color making up his body was not purely gray at all. In fact, if he looked very closely, he could see that everyrge gray particle of energy was being surrounded by multiple small motes of energy that ranged between the four colors covering his body back then. Of course, to the usual naked eye, these small motes were invisible, only showing that Argentum had a gray body.

    Whoosh!

    Not long after that, a feeling of enlightenment had washed over his body as he felt that his connection with the world had been strengthened at least by a hundred times. At this moment, he felt that he could manipte anything in the world as long as it was made out of the four foundational elements.

    Ding!

    Just as the feeling of being somewhat omnipotent gradually disappeared from his senses, a notification sound resounded throughout his mind, prompting him to open up the notification screen not long after.

    Whoosh!

    ¡®You have obtained the passive skill [Lesser Origin Affinity: Sophos Veritas].¡¯

    ¡®You have obtained the active skill [Lesser Origin Magic: Truth].¡¯

    ¡®You have obtained the active skill [Lesser Origin Magic: Erudite].¡¯

    ¡®Due to the energy making up your body taking on a drastic transformation, your species has been changed from [Wind Elemental] to [Lesser Origin Elemental].¡¯

    ¡®Please prepare to be teleported as your Origin Trials are about to start.¡¯

    Ignoring thest notification he had obtained, Argentum could not help but feel some surprise that his whole species had changed just because he had be inclined towards a stronger element. Then again, he could not help but feel like this would also be the case for Argento if he ever achieved Tempestuous Terra Firma, turning into a species that was rted to his new element.

    ¡°Identify [Lesser Origin Affinity: Sophos Veritas],¡± Aurusmanded the system not long after, knowing very well that the most important skill he had obtained out of all the skills was the passive skill. It did not take long for the system to listen to hismand, prompting a screen filled to the brim with text to appear in front of his field of vision. As he skimmed through its contents, he could not help but feel ecstatic that hisbat power had increased to a higher level, making him ask himself, ¡°I wonder how strong my attacks currently are?¡±

    Ding!

    ________

    [Lesser Origin Affinity: Sophos Veritas]

    Grade: C (Mortal)

    ¡°The four creating the world as we know shall eventually form into one, forming Lesser Origin, the lifeblood of anything and everything.¡±

    Enhancing one¡¯s understanding of the four elements to an insanely high degree, one would be able to master the four elements and fuse them into a higher tier of element, the Lesser Origin. As the user has increased their understanding of the four elements to a level far beyond what could normally be achieved, the user has be a Sage of Lesser Origin, obtaining the modifier Sophos Veritas in the process due to the user achieving the True Element level on all four foundational elements.

    > Gain ess to [Lesser Origin Magic: Truth], a set of Lesser Origin-based magic spells focused on dealing damage

    > Gain ess to [Lesser Origin Magic: Erudite], a set of Lesser Origin-based magic spells focused on defense/support

    > All four foundational elements can be used to enhance any other element, including Lesser Origin itself

    > Any skill that uses the four foundational elements or Lesser Origin has its damage increased by 100%

    > Any skill that uses the four foundational elements or Lesser Origin has its energy consumption cost reduced by 15%

    ________

    ¡°For some reason, I really want to try attacking once with my newfound powers,¡± Argentum could not help but mutter to himself, pondering over the question as to whether or whether not he should do it at least once. In the end, he let his urges get the better of him as he went ahead and tried one of the Blessed spells from his [Sage¡¯s Magic] skills.

    But unfortunately for him, even before he could start casting the Blessed spell, Argentum disappeared from where he was standing without leaving any trace whatsoever, heading towards a certain ce that he did not know. Of course, Argentum knew that he was going to be teleported to the ce where the Origin Trials were being held, though he could not help butment the fact that he was not able to try using even a skill once.

    ¡­

    Swoosh!

    After some time, Argentum had appeared in the middle of a certain ce, though he could not help but feel a bit motion sick. While he was being transported to the ce where the Origin Trials located, he felt like he was being pushed and pulled at certain parts of his body from time to time, with the most often target on his body being his head. Fortunately, he was a Pseudo-Animate. If he was already an Animate, then he would¡¯ve already vomited all over the ce he had appeared.

    To hastily remove the nausea he was feeling, he closed his eyes for a bit as he sat down, allowing him to be more and more in-touch with the surroundings around him. Eventually, after a couple minutes or so, the feeling of nausea was finally gone from his body as he stood up and opened his eyes, wondering where he had been transported. Surprisingly, the ce where Argentum had ended up was far beyond what he had expected.

    ¡°Am I¡­am I¡­in actual heaven or something?¡± Argentum could not help but ask himself as he allowed his enhanced senses to spread as far as possible. At the moment, he was currently standing on what seemed to a circle where people usually appeared on, being located on what seemed to be a decently high hill.

    Beyond the hill, all he could see were nts and trees that were as vibrant and healthy as they could be while the feeling of harmony of the four foundational elements could be felt all over the ce. Although the path that led to the ce he was on was only a dirt path, that dirt path felt like it was not out of ce at all, as if it was there from the start.

    ¡°Where¡­am I?¡± Argentum asked himself, only for a man¡¯s voice to respond to him as he said with a light chuckle, ¡°It seems like you¡¯re a neer, huh. In any case, wee to the Origin Pantheon.¡±

    ¡°The Origine again?¡± Argentum tried to repeat the term that the voice had used, only to fail as he forgot the final word. Fortunately, the voice was understanding as it repeated, ¡°The Origin Pantheon.¡±

    ¡°The Origin Pantheon¡­¡± Argentum muttered, this time being sessful in reciting it. He then turned around to the direction of the voice¡¯s origin, eager to thank the man for telling him what the name of the ce was. At the very instant he turned around, though, he instantly felt an aura probably millions of times more terrifying than Eleanor¡¯s aura at her fully berserk form emanating from the origin of the voice.

    Noticing that Argentum was left at a loss for words¡­and even action, the man that was talking to him a while ago could not help but say, ¡°Ah, sorry.¡±

    Swoosh!

    Not long after, the incredibly intimidating pressure pressing down on Argentum had disappeared without a trace as he looked at the man in front of him with a hint of fear. In contrast, the man looked at scared Argentum with arge grin on his face as heughed.

    ¡°My bad, my bad. I didn¡¯t expect that the being that appeared in front of me would be a Pseudo-Animate,¡± the man said soon after before asking, ¡°Speaking of which, what¡¯s your name?¡±

    ¡°A-Argentum¡­¡± Argentum timidly replied, wondering if the man in front of him wouldsh out at him. In response, the man ced his hands over both of Argentum¡¯s shoulders before gently rubbing them as if he was telling him to not be scared. Soon after, the man directly looked at Argentum and said, ¡°Argentum, huh? That¡¯s a nice name. The name¡¯s Cardis. Nice to meet ya.¡±

    ¡°Nice to meet you too, Cardis¡­¡± Although Argentum was gradually removing his fear of Cardis, the unintentional show of power he had done still lingered in his mind. Naturally, Cardis had a hunch as to what was going on in Argentum¡¯s mind, prompting him to say, ¡°How about this? I take you on a tour of the Origin Pantheon and we be friends. Does that sound good to you?¡±

    ¡°Sure, I guess?¡± Argentum asked, making Cardis grin with glee as he grabbed onto Argentum¡¯s arm before dragging him along.

    Soon enough, the two of them were out of the ce where Argentum had first appeared as they then made their way to the other parts of the Origin Pantheon. For the most part, the Origin Pantheon looked more like a garden rather than a ce that seemed to house the Origin Trials, a set of trials that, ording to what Argentum had heard from others, had a high chance of failure and death.

    Of course, while they were touring the entirety of the Origin Pantheon, Cardis went ahead and asked Argentum, ¡°So what brings you to the Origin Pantheon? Have you undergone through the Origin Trials yet?¡±

    ¡°No¡­not yet,¡± Argentum shook his head, prompting Cardis to stop in his tracks as he looked at Argentum with a curious gaze. Naturally, Argentum could not help but feel ufortable that Cardis was staring at him like that. And so, he asked him, ¡°Why are you looking at me like that?¡±

    ¡°What Pseudo-Animate grade are you at?¡± Cardis asked before adding, ¡°I¡¯m already at Rank 9 Animate, which means I can see through your grade in less than a second¡­but for some reason, I can¡¯t. Are you at a grade far higher than I expect?¡±

    ¡°The opposite, really,¡± Argentum responded before going silent as he pondered as to whether or not he should tell someone he had met for the first time his grade. With that in mind, he asked, ¡°Speaking of which, what do you need this information for?¡±

    ¡°Once you answer my question, I¡¯ll tell you why I asked you your grade,¡± Cardis said in response, only to add soon after, ¡°I¡¯ll let you know for now that it has something to do with the Origin Trials you¡¯re going to take.¡±

    ¡°I see¡­¡± Argentum said in response with a light nod. Taking in a deep breath, he went ahead and said, ¡°Well, I¡¯m a Normal-grade Pseudo-Animate.¡±

    ¡°¡­¡± In an instant, Cardis was left at a loss for words as he did not expect that kind of answer. Thinking that he had heard wrongly, he asked him, ¡°Did you just say¡­Normal-grade Pseudo-Animate?¡±

    ¡°Yes? Is there a problem with that?¡± Argentum responded to Cardis¡¯ question with a question of his own, only for Cardis to utilize all of his strength as they zoomed through the dirt paths at breakneck speeds.

    Being dragged along as if he was a g being waved around in frenzy, Argentum endure the strain he felt from his arm as he asked Cardis, ¡°Why are you running so quickly all of a sudden?¡±

    Rather than respond to his question with a normal smile, an incredibly excited expression could instead be seen on face as he looked at Argentum and said, ¡°You¡¯re gonna bring a big change to this ce, that¡¯s for sure!¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m sure you¡¯ll forge a new faction once you¡¯re finished with the Origin Trials!¡±

    Although he was kind of happy to hear that he would be able to do something that others couldn¡¯t, he could not help but fixate on a certain part of Cardis¡¯ statement as he asked.

    ¡°Cardis, I have a question.¡±

    ¡°What is it?¡±

    ¡°¡­what the heck are factions?¡±

 Chapter 353: The Origin Factions

    Chapter 353: The Origin Factions

    ¡°I¡¯ll exin what factions are once we get to the ce I have in mind,¡± Cardis hastily replied as he continued to dash through the various dirt paths, taking a few turns from time to time. There were even times that he decided to veer off the dirt paths, taking a shortcut that led to another dirt path.

    Eventually, his frenzied run came to an end at around five minutes or so as the two of them appeared at what seemed to be the central portion of the Origin Pantheon. Now being able to control his body, Argentum went ahead and shook off the pain he felt from being dragged along as he used his enhanced senses to take in the sight that was currently in front of him.

    From what he could see, he and Cardis seemed to be in what looked like a za, but with the surface area of the za being hundreds of timesrger than a usual za. Not only that, but at the center of this za, one would be able to see pedestals that had exquisitely crafted statues on top of it. On top of the outermost pedestals, one would be able to a finely crafted statue of a wisp of fire, a drop of water, a gust of wind, and a bit of earth.

    Going one step closer to the center, one would be able to see pedestals that were considerably higher than the outermost pedestals, housing statues that seemed tobine two elements at once. As for the pedestals one step closerpared to these, they housed states thatbined three elements at once.

    Eventually, one would be able to see the pedestals at the innermost region that were at least three times as tall as the outermost pedestals. Unlike the statues on top of the outer pedestals that showed the fusion of elements, the statues on top of these pedestals instead showed an abstract message. In fact, only three statues showed an abstract message on top of them.

    The first one was the lowest pedestal out of all the three, showing what seemed to be a sapling gradually growing. From what he could feel from the statue, Argentum felt that the statue talked about the word ¡®life¡¯.

    As for the second lowest pedestal, the statue on top of it was that of people holding their hands together, as if they were moving as one. In an instant, Argentum had a feeling that the statue was talking about the word ¡®unity¡¯.

    And for the tallest pedestal out of all the pedestals out there, a ring could be seen on top of it, gradually rotating along the same axis, making Argentum think that the ring was arge wheel. Fortunately, it did not take long for him to realize that the statue was actually talking about the word ¡®cycle¡¯.

    ¡°Life, unity, and cycle¡­¡± Argentum muttered, shocking Cardis, who was waiting for Argentum to start talking. Listening to what Argentum said, Cardis could not help but look at Argentum as if he was a freak and asked, ¡°You already got what the three pedestals were trying to say?¡±

    ¡°Yeah? Is there something wrong with me doing that?¡± Argentum responded, asking a question in the process. In response, Cardis took in a deep breath and said, ¡°There¡¯s nothing wrong with what you¡¯ve done, but you¡¯re just¡­a bit too fast, don¡¯t you think?¡±

    ¡°In any case, those are the factions,¡± he continued talking with Argentum, pointing at the pedestals while doing so. In an instant, Argentum radiated an aura of confusion as he asked, ¡°So you¡¯re telling me, those pedestals¡­are the factions you were talking about?¡±

    ¡°Well, to be more specific, I¡¯m talking about the statues on top of the pedestals,¡± Cardis replied, before pointing at the various people that were passing by the za. ¡°I don¡¯t know if you can see it, but at a certain part of their body, you could see a pin that is the same shape as one of the statues on these pedestals.¡±

    Hearing that statement, Argentum went ahead and utilized his enhanced senses to the fullest as he made sure to check for a pin on the bodies of the various beings that passed along them. Surprisingly, it did not take long for him to find out that what Cardis said was correct.

    Although the ce where they had the pin varied between person and person, he could see very well the images of the statues on their bodies, with some having the statues on the outermost pedestals, while rarely, he would see those with pins of the statues at the innermost region of the pedestals. Even Cardis, who was beside him, had a pin of the statues that pertained to the fusion of three out of the four foundational elements out there.

    Noticing that there was a pattern going on, Argentum looked at Cardis and asked, ¡°So, you¡¯re telling me that if they have a pin of a certain statue, they¡¯re part of that faction?¡±

    ¡°Exactly,¡± Cardis replied with a light smile as he continued, ¡°Those with pins of the statues at the outermost pedestals are part of the factions that have the most members, while those with pins of the statues at the innermost pedestals are part of the factions that have the least members. If my memory serves me right, the cycle statue, the one at the highest pedestal, is only owned by one person.¡±

    ¡°As for me, I¡¯m part of the Waterme Tempest faction, which doesn¡¯t have a lot of members, but not too few either,¡± Cardis added not long after.

    ¡°Do these statues mean anything else?¡± Argentum asked soon after, feeling that he had only solved half of the problem. In response, Cardis nodded as he said, ¡°Indeed. These statues show your understanding of the term ¡®Origin¡¯. Some interpret it as their starting point, which is why the four foundational elements are at the outermost pedestals, while some interpret it as something greater, like those at the three innermost pedestals.¡±

    ¡°Naturally, it also shows the understanding of the person towards the element rted to Origin, no matter what variant it may be,¡± Cardis continued.

    ¡°And the reason why you brought me here is because¡­?¡± Argentum asked once more, to which Cardis replied, ¡°I wanted to show you the various factions that we currently have and¡­¡±

    ¡°I want you to aim higher than those at the three innermost pedestals,¡± he added. ¡°I don¡¯t know why, but I have a hunch that you can do more than that even though I¡¯ve only met you a few minutes ago.¡±

    ¡°Pfft. You think this trash right here could understand a farrger part of the Origin than even Torvas himself?¡± Out of nowhere, a man jeered at Cardis¡¯ statement, eliciting Cardis to slightly frown as the man continued to talk.

    Nevertheless, Cardis wasn¡¯t someone who backed down that easily, telling the man, ¡°Says the guy who decided to lick the boot of someone who¡¯s just part of a triple element faction. Am I not wrong, Tristan?¡±

    Tristan, who was the one jeering at Cardis¡¯ statement a while ago, could not help but grit his teeth in anger as he knew that it was true. Of course, he knew that admitting defeat would go against his whole lifeblood, prompting him to let out a sneer as he said, ¡°So what if I am licking the boot of someone from a triple element faction? At the very least, I¡¯m far better than this weak Pseudo-Animate right here.¡±

    ¡°Oh?¡± Cardis could not help but raise his eyebrow in response as a light yet confident smile appeared on his face. Not long after, he took in a deep breath before shouting, ¡°Do you really think that way, Tristan? How about we bet on it?¡±

    ¡°Did someone say a bet?¡±

    ¡°Who are we betting on?¡±

    ¡°Where¡¯s the bet happening?¡±

    In an instant, a decentlyrge crowd of people gathered around Cardis, Tristan, and Argentum as they heard the word ¡®bet¡¯ resound throughout the za. Naturally, all of these people were gamblers by nature, seeking the pleasure and thrill that came with sacrificing their hard-earned resources for a chance to earn more.

    Seeing the crowd that had gathered around them, Tristan could not help but look at Cardis with killing intent as he knew that this guy was trying to lead him towards a dead end. With a look of anger on his face, he could not help but mutter, ¡°To think that the person I considered as my friend back then would betray me like this.¡±

    ¡°Who are you to talk about betrayal if you were the one who betrayed me in the first ce?¡± Cardis rebutted with his own statement, prompting the crowd to scream and shout with fervor and excitement at the current situation. Of course, with no way out, Tristan decided to go all in and hope for the best as he said, ¡°You wanted a bet, right? Then, I¡¯ll give you a bet you won¡¯t regret.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll ce in 100 Rank 9 Mana Stones on the possibility that this Pseudo-Animate right here would not be able to understand the Origin far beyond the Cycle,¡± Tristan said without hesitation, though in reality, his heart was arching as 100 Rank 9 Mana Stones was already three quarters of his whole assets.

    In response, Cardis still had a confident smile on his face as he went ahead and formed a rift, allowing a pile of mana stones that looked like pure crystals to drop on the ground without fear. Not long after, the rift was closed, allowing Cardis to ce his bet as he said, ¡°Alright, then. Since you¡¯re betting 100 Rank 9 Mana Stones, I¡¯ll bet 200 Rank 9 Mana Stones on the possibility that this friend of mine right here would be able to understand the Origin far beyond the Cycle.¡±

    Soon after that, Cardis then went ahead and said to everyone, ¡°Everyone, listen up! If you bet that this friend of mine can¡¯t understand the Origin beyond the Cycle, then you¡¯ll win twice of what you ced in. But if you bet that this friend of mine can understand the Origin beyond the Cycle, then you¡¯ll win¡­¡±

    ¡°¡­ten times of what you ced in,¡± Cardis continued, leaving everyone in the crowd at a loss for words before they went ahead and frantically bet on the chances of Argentum achieving this or Argentum achieving that.

    Of course, Argentum, who was confused as to how he was added into this bet thing out of nowhere, could not help but ask Cardis, ¡°How did we end up here?¡±

    ¡°No idea either,¡± Cardis said in response as heughed it off. He then told Argentum, ¡°In any case, just do your best. Don¡¯t be pressured by all of this.¡±

    ¡®I¡¯m not really pressured by any of this¡­I¡¯m just confused¡­¡¯ Argentum could not help but think to himself as he listened to Cardis¡¯ statement, though he still nodded outward.

    ¡°I¡¯ll bet 10 Rank 7 Mana Stones on the Pseudo-Animate going beyond the Cycle!¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll bet 30 Rank 8 Mana Stones on the Pseudo-Animate not going beyond the Cycle!¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll bet 5 Rank 4 Mana Stones on the Pseudo-Animate going beyond the Cycle!¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll bet 1000 Transcendent Mana Stones on the Pseudo-Animate going beyond the Cycle.¡± Just as the people were frantically cing their bets on Argentum¡¯s chances, a person went ahead and ced in arge bet out of nowhere, shocking everyone. But after they looked at the man who ced the bet, their expressions of shock turned into that of awe and reverence, with Cardis and Tristan even looking at the man with awe as all of them said with glee.

    ¡°Torvas!¡±

    ¡°Hello there. Don¡¯t mind me,¡± Torvas greeted everyone with a light smile on his face, with Cardis even smiling from the greeting. Though, it did not take long for Cardis to realize that if Argentum did achieve a level of understanding beyond the Cycle, he would have to pay Torvas 10 times the original amount he had ced, which he could not even do in the first ce.

    With this in mind, Cardis scratched his head as he sent a strand of energy to Torvas and said, ¡°Er¡­would it be possible for you to bet in le¡ª¡±

    Before Cardis could finish his words, Torvas looked at him and responded with a light chuckle, ¡°Don¡¯t worry. Think of my bet as the capital you¡¯ll use for everyone¡¯s prize. The remaining stones after that will naturally go back to me, though.¡±

    ¡°But of course, Torvas!¡± Cardis said in response, his expression that of gratitude and joy while Torvas looked at him with a light smile. Not long after, Torvas looked at Argentum with a slightly examining gaze before nodding in satisfaction.

    ¡°He definitely has the ability to do it,¡± Torvas muttered before leaving the area, prompting the crowd to be silent for a bit before changing their minds to bet on Argentum achieving an understanding beyond the Cycle.

    Of course, while this all happened, Argentum looked at everything with an aura of confusion as he asked himself.

    ¡°How did I get myself involved in all of this?¡±

 Chapter 354: Comprehending the Origin

    Chapter 354: Comprehending the Origin

    Eventually, those who wanted to bet on Argentum as to whether he would be able toprehend anything beyond the Cycle or not had finished, allowing both Tristan and Cardis to look at a massive pile of Mana Stones that would normallyst even a Rank 9 Animate like Cardis for hundreds of years.

    Seeing that no one was willing to bet anymore, Cardis looked at everyone surrounding them and asked once more, ¡°Anyone else willing to bet?¡±

    With no one responding to his question, Cardis lightly nodded to himself as he said, ¡°Alright, then. Since¡¯s no one¡¯s willing to bet anymore, let us now close the betting station and see whether my friend here can achieve an understanding of the Origin beyond the Cycle or not.¡±

    Swish!

    With the simple snap of his fingers, a rift appeared under the massive pile of Mana Stones, which had been formed by Cardis in order to make sure that the stones weren¡¯t pocketed by anyone else. Of course, Tristan could not help but frown after seeing Cardis do something like that, but since even Torvas was involved in this betting session, he decided to restrain himself as he thought that he would eventually get thestugh.

    As for Argentum, seeing the massive pile of Mana Stones disappear into thin air through a rift, he went ahead and looked at Cardis, asking, ¡°So¡­what next?¡±

    With a light yet apologetic smile, Cardis replied, ¡°We¡¯re going to head to the Origin Statue, the ce where everyoneprehends their own meaning of the Origin¡­¡±

    ¡°¡­as well as the ce where everyone forms their own Origin Core.¡±

    After that, Cardis started heading towards a certain direction, prompting Argentum to follow behind him. Of course, since they had bet on Argentum, the others also followed him, including Tristan.

    While making their way to the Origin Statue, Argentum could not help but think about the final statement Cardis told him, sending thetter a strand of his energy as he sent a message through it.

    ¡°What¡¯s an Origin Core?¡± he asked, to which Cardis responded to an energy strand of his own, ¡°It¡¯s basically a part of ourselves that allows us to wield the element of Origin, may it be Lesser Origin or its moreplex variants.¡±

    ¡°Without it, we would only have know-how to wield the element of Origin, but not the ability to wield Origin itself,¡± he continued. ¡°Not only that, but it also allows us to obtain a deeper understanding of the Origin as time passes, allowing us to reach levels of understanding such as the three on the innermost pedestals back in the za.¡±

    ¡°Naturally, it goes without saying that once you understand more of the Origin, the more powerful the element of Origin bes in your hands,¡± he said, ending his response, leaving Argentum in a pondering state for himself. Although Cardis had a feeling that Argentum still had a lot of questions regarding the Origin Core and even the element of Origin as a whole, he knew that it was better for him to learn it firsthand rather than have it spoon-fed to him.

    Eventually, the crowd had arrived at a part of the Origin Pantheon that was somewhat far away from the za, located near the north-northeast region. Once the crowd had arrived, those who were in the area could not help but look at them with curious gazes, with some even having frowns on their faces as they did not like to be disturbed.

    Nevertheless, the Origin Statue was a public area avable to all those who hadprehend the element of Origin, so they couldn¡¯tin that much. At most, they could just let out scoffs with a hint of anger and head to a quieter ce around the Origin Statue.

    As for Argentum, after arriving at the area, he could not help but have his sense of vision fixate towards the massive white statue in front of him. Although he was not sure how tall it really was, he was certain that it spanned about a few kilometers in height, taking into consideration how the tip of the statue was quite close to touching the clouds.

    As for its size, it was truly a sight to behold, needing about a thousand people to hold hands around it to even barely get an idea as to how wide it was at its diameter. Of course, the thing that made Argentum fixate on the statue the most was its appearance.

    Though it may not seem like it due to how the robe the person was draped in had covered most of its body structure, the person¡¯s dainty arm reaching towards the skies, as well as the finely-chiseled face that perfectly captured the essence of longing had instantly made Argentum that this statue was portraying a young woman at her more tender years.

    ¡°Is this the Origin Statue?¡± Argentum could not help but ask Cardis beside him, who instantly responded with a nod, ¡°Yep. The one and only.¡±

    Soon after replying to Argentum¡¯s question, he then went towards those who were sitting cross-legged around the statue with their eyes closed, and shouted, much to Argentum¡¯s surprise.

    ¡°Make way! Make way! We have a neer here undergoing his firstprehension! If you don¡¯t make way, then don¡¯te begging for mercy when I use violence on you!¡±

    After hearing Cardis¡¯s words resound throughout the area, those who were sitting cross-legged all this time instantly opened their eyes as they hastily stood up, knowing very well that they were given the same level of treatment when they first came to the Origin Statue toprehend the Origin.

    Seeing how these people, where some even looked at him and the crowd with frowns and slightly furious gazes, move out of the way without hesitation through words alone, left Argentum at a loss for words as he asked Cardis through another strand of energy, ¡°Does this always happen when there¡¯s a neer?¡±

    ¡°You betcha,¡± Cardis replied, not even minding the fact that he was not using an energy strand to reply. Eventually, no one was left sitting cross-legged around the Origin Statue, with all of them standing around the perimeter in order to watch the show that was going to happen soon.

    Naturally, that show was Argentum trying toprehend the Origin for the first time.

    ¡°Alright. I¡¯ve cleared up the area for you. Get as close to the Origin Statue as possible before sitting cross-legged and closing your eyes. After that, allow your understanding of the element of Origin, however weak it may be, to resonate with the Origin Statue and everything will happen naturally from there,¡± Cardis looked at Argentum and said.

    ¡°A piece of advice. Don¡¯t be nervous. Allow your body to rx as much as possible,¡± he soon added, to which Argentum nodded in response as he took in a deep breath before making his way towards the Origin Statue.

    Since the Origin Statue was quiterge, it took a couple of minutes for Argentum to arrive at an area that he felt was good enough, given how he felt some sort of restriction barring him froming any closer to the statue. Although he was curious as to why he felt a restriction over his body as he tried to get closer to the statue¡¯s center, he decided to put that at the back of his head for now.

    He then took in a deep breath as he repeated Cardis¡¯s words of advice in his mind a few times, allowing his body to rx as he closed his eyes. Soon, he thought about the passive skill he had just obtained sometime ago rted to the element of Origin, allowing it tomunicate with the Origin Statue.

    Surprisingly, just as he thought about allowing the skill to connect with the statue, an influx of foreign energy had entered his body, giving him the feeling that he had control over everything yet nothing at the same time. Fortunately, this sensation onlysted for a bit as his senses had returned to his normal, though there was a slight change to it.

    At first, that slight change to his senses were faint, but as time passed, he could feel another type of energy that was foreign yet seemed to bepatible with his own enter his body. He allowed his senses to reach their full power as he followed where this new type of energy went, eventually finding out that it was heading towards his soul, transforming into an orb of some sort.

    After looking at that orb, he instantly felt it resonate with a deeper part of his body. Not long after, this orb of energy soon sent out strands throughout the entirety of his body, gradually transforming into golden strands that returned to the orb and fused with it, gradually fusing with him, as if it was turning into an organ in his body.

    ¡®Could this be¡­the Origin Core Cardis was talking about?¡¯ Argentum could not help but think to himself, only to find out that this was the case as he felt the orb radiating the same type of energy that made up his body, but with a slight change.

    Although he could not point out what this slight change was, the orb continued to radiate the same type of energy, allowing the energy it generated to fuse with the energy making up his body as he felt his soul move to a higher ne of existence of some sort. Combined by the fact that he felt his body still sitting on hard ground, it made him feel slightly nauseated.

    Nevertheless, this nausea he felt instantly disappeared as an all-epassing yet caring female voice resounded throughout his mind, asking him.

    ¡°What is the Origin to you?¡±

    ¡°The Origin¡­¡± Argentum muttered to himself as he pondered over the question. Not long after, the silhouettes of the four foundational elements appeared in front of him as he thought to himself, ¡®Isn¡¯t the Origin made up of the four foundational elements, given how [Lesser Origin Affinity] was formed by having affinity with the four elements?¡¯

    ¡®No¡­there¡¯s more to it¡­¡¯ Argentum continued to ponder over the question as the silhouettes in front of him gradually changed in shape. At some point, the silhouettes of the four foundational elements hadbined as one in order to show one cohesive image.

    ¡®Origin is more than that¡­I think. Although it could be said that Origin is made up of the four foundational elements, Lesser Origin, in this case, is considered a higher-tiered element, which means that it¡¯s an entity of its own separate from the four foundational elements¡­yet at the same time, it is not.¡¯

    While Argentum continued to ponder over the question, Cardis and the crowd could not help but look at Argentum as they noticed that his body was now radiating a faint white glow, prompting one to shout, ¡°Hey! He¡¯s finally starting toprehend the Origin!¡±

    In less than an instant, everyone fixated their visions towards Argentum as they felt an aura that gradually became more intense as time passed. Surprisingly, the first thing they noticed from this aura was the sheer purity of it. Although everyone in the area was quite well-versed with the element of Origin, they had never felt such a pure element of Origin before, which even made some of the people in the areaprehend a little bit of their own understanding of the Origin.

    Nevertheless, that onlysted for a few minutes as a white image started to form above Argentum¡¯s head, instantly showing everyone that Argentum was about to form his own understanding of the Origin.

    Whoosh!

    After some time, an image of a cohesive blob that radiated the aura of the four elements soon appeared over his head, prompting some to let out gasps of shock and surprise as they could not believe what they were seeing. Although it transformed into an image of three blobs joined at one part from time to time, that did not hide the shock they were feeling.

    Even Cardis, who believed that Argentum had a high chance ofprehending far greater than the Origin, was left at a loss for words as he muttered to himself in disbelief, ¡°Isn¡¯t that¡­a sign of¡­Unity?¡±

    ¡°Look closer. It¡¯s showing two signs at once. At times, it¡¯s showing Unity, while at other times, it¡¯s showing the sign of three fused elements,¡± one of the people beside Cardis could not help but say. Unfortunately for the guy, thetter sign the guy noticed would eventually disappear as the image of a cohesive blob stayed over Argentum¡¯s head, prompting the guy to let out an awkward chuckle in response.

    As for Tristan, after seeing that the guy Cardis brought with him hadprehend the Origin to the level of Unity, he could not help but feel a hint of fear, though he tried his best to not show it on the outside. Of course, fate seemed to y out differently for Tristan as the image over Argentum¡¯s head transformed into something else, giving off a far more intense aura of the Origin.

    ¡°Life¡­¡± Cardis could not help but mutter as the image over Argentum¡¯s head transformed into that of a tree going through its various stages.

    ¡°Cycle¡­?¡± Not long after, Tristan could not help but say out in disbelief as the image of a ring rotating on its axis soon appeared over Argentum¡¯s head a few minutes after that.

    Eventually, a new image appeared over Argentum¡¯s head, leaving the people watching over him at a loss for words as they felt that this image embodied the meaning of Origin far greater than the Cycle could. With that, only one question lingered in everyone¡¯s minds.

    ¡°What does this image mean?¡±

 Chapter 355: Birth of the New Origin Sage

    Chapter 355: Birth of the New Origin Sage

    While people were watching the image over Argentum¡¯s head transform every once in a while into moreplete yet more esoteric forms of the Origin, Argentum was still looking at the silhouette in front of him, continuing to expound his understanding over what the Origin was.

    ¡°The Origin is the key to starting life itself, and that¡¯s something I¡¯ve already understood after thinking about it for some time,¡± Argentum muttered to himself as he continued to ponder over the question. ¡°Though, if I look at it from the perspective of the four foundational elements making up the Lesser Origin, I can interpret it as the four working together in a cyclical manner.¡±

    ¡°Water nurtures the earth, earth gives birth to nts that would catch on fire with enough heat, fire brings forth strong winds, while condensed winds give birth to water¡­or something along those lines,¡± he continued as he tried to wrap his head around the concept.

    After pondering over these thoughts for a bit more, he could not help but let out a light sigh as he said to himself, ¡°Although it seems like I¡¯ve understood the element of Origin from its most superficial to its most detailed features¡­why do I feel like I still haven¡¯t scratched the surface of what Origin truly is?¡±

    ¡°Origin brings forth life¡­Origin has the four elements worked together in a cyclical manner through co-existence¡­¡±

    As he started to mutter everything that was surfacing in his mind, his thoughts instantly fixated on one word he had mentioned out of the blue. It was at that moment that a barrier barring him from understanding more of the Origin was broken in that instant, giving him new insights to what Origin was.

    ¡°Co-existence¡­Existence¡­¡± While Argentum was trying to ponder more over the word he had in mind, the silhouette in front of him was now changing into a different image. What was a spinning ring a while ago was now turning into something else. Something¡­spherical.

    ¡°Existence¡­the Origin facilitates existence itself.¡± With this sentence in mind, Argentum seemed to have gained a foothold over this new understanding of the Origin as he tried to clear it up even more through talking to himself.

    ¡°Although it could be said that existence is the same as life, it doesn¡¯t work the same way in reverse. Life relies on multiple things for it to ur, but for existence¡­¡±

    ¡°¡­there is only one requirement. And that is to exist.¡±

    ¡°For it to be there, is to embody the meaning of existence itself,¡± Argentum continued to mutter as the spherical silhouette in front of him began to take on more detailed features. At some parts of the sphere, there would be dips that went deeper into the core of the sphere, while at others, it would poke out like a sore thumb.

    ¡°Even though it is quite far-fetched for me to say this, I am the Origin.¡± Feeling that he had expounded enough over this new understanding of Origin, he was now consolidating his thoughts as the spherical silhouette in front of him was gradually bing more corporeal.

    ¡°I am the Origin. The surroundings around me are the Origin. The people I¡¯ve interacted with are the Origin. The world my feet steps on is the Origin.¡±

    ¡°For the Origin is the reason why everything exists.¡±

    Whoosh!

    Just as Argentum had concluded his answer to the question given to him, the spherical silhouette had now turned corporeal, taking on various colors as the sight of a small filled to the brim with nature and life could be seen hovering in front of him.

    With the blue water taking up most of the¡¯s surface while the green lushnds took up quite a sizable chunk, he could not help but feel that he had seen this somewhere before. After a while, a memory from Aurus had surfaced in Argentum¡¯s mind, prompting him to ask himself, ¡°Why is Earth the formed image from my understanding of the Origin?¡±

    He then thought about it for a bit, eventuallying to an answer that the word ¡®existence¡¯ was just too abstract to visualize, forcing the heavens to visualize it in a manner that made it easy for him to understand. In other words, the Earth was his visualization of the word ¡®existence¡¯.

    ¡°So¡­what next?¡± Argentum asked not long after as the small slowly revolved around its axis. Not long after, this small then zoomed towards Argentum¡¯s forehead, subconsciously making him a step back out of surprise. Unfortunately for him, the speed at which the was heading towards his forehead was far faster than him stepping back, which resulted in a collision¡­or so one would think.

    Swoosh!

    Without any obstructions, the small was absorbed by Argentum¡¯s body as it hastily made its way to the orb of energy that had formed quite some time ago, melding with each and every strand of the orb as the feeling it gave off became stronger. Sometimeter, he also felt that his connection with the four foundational elements had be stronger than ever before.

    After a few more minutes, the small and the orb of energy had now be as one, turning into a silver orb which housed the same gray energy that made up Argentum¡¯s body, though there was a qualitative difference between the two.

    Nevertheless, after the transformation process was over, a notification sound resounded in his mind, prompting Argentum to read the notification he had just received.

    Ding!

    ¡®You have received the passive skill [Lesser Origin Core].¡¯

    Just as he was about to identify the skill he had just received, his surroundings started to change bit by bit, eventually returning him back to a spot near the Origin Statue as he slowly opened his eyes.

    ¡°Am I¡­back?¡± Argentum muttered to himself as he felt that the experience he had just now was quite surreal. But as he continued to look at his surroundings, he noticed that the people looking at him from afar had their mouths wide open as shock and surprise covered their faces. Not only that, but even awe and reverence could be seen written on their faces.

    With that, he could not help but think to himself, ¡®Did I do something wrong while I wasprehending the Origin?¡¯

    Fortunately, his curiosity would be satiated not long after he had opened his eyes as Cardis gradually made his way to where he was while he was beaming with excitement. At the very instant Cardis was in front of Argentum, he instantly sent an energy strand to Argentum, surprising thetter as he asked him.

    ¡°Do you realize what you just did?¡±

    ¡°Eh?¡± Although Argentum wasn¡¯t expecting Cardis to initiate a conversation with him through an energy strand, he responded back with a strand of his own, asking, ¡°Did I do something I shouldn¡¯t have?¡±

    ¡°Far from it,¡± Cardis said in response before telling Argentum to stand up, which thetter did. After that, Cardis went ahead and pped Argentum on the back before loudly cackling as he shouted, ¡°Everyone! Did you see that?¡±

    ¡°My friend right here has just made history! After 3257 years, we have now peered closer into the true essence of the Origin, thanks to Argentum right here!¡± he continued to talk, leaving Argentum at a loss for words as to how he should act.

    It was then that he realized that he had not done anything wrong at all. In fact, it was quite the opposite. Rather than doing something bad, he had instead pioneered a path that gave everyone a better understanding of the element of Origin, even if they didn¡¯t understand what it meant right now.

    ¡°Let us cheer for the new Origin Sage!¡± Cardis yelled soon after, to which the people around them instantly shouted in response, ¡°Cheers to the Origin Sage! Cheers to the Origin Sage!¡±

    At this point, Argentum could not help but scratch his head from the amount of attention he was getting. Was understanding the Origin to a higher level that big of a deal?

    Even though he couldn¡¯t care less as to why that was the case, he went ahead and asked Cardis, ¡°What¡¯s an Origin Sage?¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s a title given to someone that has understood the Origin the greatest. Previously, the Origin Sage was Torvas. But from now on, with your greater understanding of the Origin, the Origin Sage is now you.¡±

    ¡°I see¡­¡± At this point, the attention he was getting from bing the Origin Sage was too much for him to handle, prompting him to look at the people cheering for him and asking, ¡°Could you please not cheer for me? I can¡¯t really handle that much attention.¡±

    Surprisingly, like obedient servants, the people surrounding them all went silent at once, leaving Argentum once more at a loss for words. Nevertheless, he was quite satisfied that his words weren¡¯t left unnoticed.

    After that, he looked at Cardis and asked in a slightly joking manner, ¡°So¡­how about that bet?¡±

    ¡°Ah, yes! The bet!¡± With Cardis also being entranced by the feat Argentum had done, it was only thanks to his reminder that Cardis recalled the bet. Without hesitation, he looked at the group of people that came along with them and said, ¡°To those that bet that my friend here would be able toprehend the Origin beyond the Cycle¡­¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s now time to obtain your reward!¡±

    In an instant, around 70% of the people that came along with them madly dashed towards where Cardis and Argentum was, afraid that they wouldn¡¯t get their prize. Fortunately, Cardis acted quickly and efficiently in handing out the rewards, using the Transcendent Stones given to him by Torvas to fill in the gap of the remaining prize money.

    As for those who bet against him, although they were slightly saddened by the fact that they lost quite a decent sum of their Mana Stones, their bets weren¡¯t really considered a lot to them, so they didn¡¯t feel that much pain from it¡­except for Tristan.

    With an ashen expression, he looked at the people that were receiving 10 times the amount they initially bet, recalling that he had basically lost three quarters of his whole assets. Just as he was about to turn around and leave due to the shame he was feeling, he then heard a few wordse out of Cardis¡¯s mouth, prompting him toe closer, though with his head dropped down.

    ¡°As for those who bet against my friend here,e here and receive your reward as well!¡±

    ¡°Eh?!¡±

    ¡°What?!¡±

    ¡°Seriously?!¡±

    Naturally, those who bet against Argentumprehending something beyond the Cycle felt that it was weird that Cardis would give them double their initial bet. But after hearing Cardis¡¯s next words, they could not help butugh in response as they thanked him profusely.

    ¡°Don¡¯t ask me why I¡¯m doing this, I¡¯m just in a good mood!¡±

    And so, those who bet in favor and against Argentum had won quite a sizable amount of Mana Stones, with Tristan even changing his impression of Cardis after the Mana Stones he had bet had doubled in value. As for those that were at the Origin Statue and were not part of the bet, some of them could only look on with envy in their eyes.

    After asking the people that came with him to go do their own things, Argentum then asked Cardis for the two of them to head back to the za, though at a slower pace. Unsurprisingly, Cardis agreed to his request as he recalled that he had brought Argentum to ces at breakneck speeds, not giving him a chance to really get a feel for the ce.

    While he was walking leisurely beside Cardis, Argentum went ahead and asked some of the questions that lingered in his mind after undergoing through thatprehension process.

    ¡°How long did I sit under the Origin Statue?¡± Argentum asked, to which Cardis responded nonchntly, ¡°Oh, not much time at all. You probably sat there motionless for about a week or so?¡±

    ¡°A week?!¡± Not expecting such a long time to have passed while he was under the Origin Statue, Argentum was prepared to use all of his movement speed skills to head back to the me Spirit Inheritance as fast as possible. Fortunately, Cardis realized this and said with a light chuckle, ¡°Just before you start dashing back, take note that a week here is equivalent to like a day or so in the outside world. Also, you¡¯re one of the fastest ones to finishprehending the Origin, with most people taking months or even years toprehend the Origin.¡±

    Hearing that, Argentum instantly calmed himself down as there was still six days until Aurus was forced to leave the me Spirit Inheritance. Then again, that one week deadline was just for him to feel a bit of pressure. Only if he knew that this one week deadline was actually too lenient for him.

    With that question now answered, he then answered the question that lingered at the back of his head for quite some time now. Imitating the sound of a light cough to attract Cardis¡¯s attention, he then asked him, ¡°Speaking of which, do you know where I could attempt the Origin Trials?¡±

    At first, Cardis looked at Argentum as if he was an idiot. But after some time, he understood where he wasing from, prompting him to say with another chuckle, ¡°Yeah, I know where you could attempt them.¡±

    ¡°In fact, you did just that,¡± he continued, making Argentum silent for a bit as he eventually realized what Cardis trying to say. In the end, he could only utter out¡­

    ¡°I see¡­¡±

 Chapter 356: Taking the Initiative

    Chapter 356: Taking the Initiative

    XXXX Continent, Seraph Kingdom, inside the Arcana Tower.

    A week has passed since the battle of words between Vanadir and Arshe had urred. Although such an incident would have made big waves within the span of week, the entire kingdom was surprisingly silent and oblivious to this happening. At first, Vanadir was quite certain that this sort of news would be spread out by Arshe since it would basically kickstart the idea of there being two factions fighting over the throne.

    But for some reason, Arshe decided to not do that, lying low in the meantime. Though Vanadir was curious as to what was going on in Arshe¡¯s mind, Vanadir could not help but let out a sigh of relief and somewhat thank Arshe silently in his mind as a great number of people would definitelye swarming for him and Arshe if such news were spread.

    While Vanadir was continuing to train with the others at his pavilion, Dane was inside his own room at the Arcana Tower, waiting for a certain someone to meet him.

    Knock. Knock. Knock.

    ¡°Ah, he¡¯s finally here.¡± After waiting for an hour or so, Dane¡¯s tensed expression had eased up as a light smile suffused on his face. Opening the door, the sight of a man with a cruel expression on his face could be seen. With his green robe and the mark of four golden leaves surrounding a dius on the left side of his chest, Dane could not help but greet him with glee, ¡°Cerius, nice to see you again.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s been quite some time since we¡¯vest met, Dane.¡± In response, Cerius lightly chuckled as Dane allowed him to enter his room. Utilizing his mastery over magic, he manipted a chair to move to where Cerius was as Dane asked him, ¡°Want something to drink?¡±

    ¡°No need. I¡¯ll only be here for a short while.¡± Cerius shook his head before continuing, ¡°As an Executive of the Tower, you know very well how hectic my schedule is.¡±

    ¡°Sure. ¡®Hectic¡¯, you say,¡± Dane said in response to Cerius¡¯s words, gesturing a quotation mark with his fingers. Nevertheless, Cerius was still someone with a high status of the tower, so Dane knew very well not to waste much of his time, even if they knew each other for a long time already.

    Sitting on a chair as he sipped on a cup of tea he had just brewed, Dane looked at Cerius and asked, ¡°So, tell me. How did the Elder like the egg I gave him?¡±

    ¡°He¡¯s definitely enjoying it, alright,¡± Cerius said in response, his expression slightly envious of the elder above him. Soon after, he let out a light sigh, ¡°As for the request you asked me back then, the Elder told me that he had to reject it since that made it seem like the Arcana Tower was wholeheartedly supporting the Ninth Prince.¡±

    Scratching his head at the reason given to him, Dane could not help but ask, ¡°I¡¯m not even asking for the cooperation of the Assistant Elders. At most, I just want to obtain the help of High Executives or Executives with the power of High Executives. You¡¯re telling me that such a request in the eyes of the Elder is equivalent to the Arcana Tower helping out a single prince?¡±

    ¡°Beats me.¡± Cerius shrugged his shoulders in response. ¡°In any case, the Elder has rejected your request. I¡¯ve already tried my best to persuade him.¡±

    ¡°Well, I was kind of expecting this result,¡± Dane said soon after as he continued, ¡°Tell the Elder that in exchange for that egg, he owes me a favor.¡±

    ¡°That I can do,¡± Cerius responded, nodding with an expression of certainty on his face.

    ¡°Anyways, with that out of the way¡­¡± Dane then shifted the topic after that, changing it to a topic that definitely involved Vanadir.

    ¡°Is there any news regarding the alliance involving the Third Prince?¡±

    Surprisingly, Cerius took in a long deep breath before letting it out as he eventually nodded in response, a solemn expression on his face.

    At first, he was silent, prompting Dane to predict what Cerius was going to say.

    ¡°Is the Tenth Prince officially included in this alliance?¡± Dane asked, to which Cerius nodded in response as affirmation.

    ¡°Is the Seventh and Eleventh Prince also included?¡± he continued, with Cerius nodding in affirmation to this question as well.

    After that, Dane went silent for a bit as the next person he had in mind was someone who had the ability to stand alongside the Third Prince as an equal. Nevertheless, his hunch was telling him that this might be true. Taking in a deep breath, he then asked Cerius, ¡°Is the Fourth Prince¡­also included?¡±

    Silence.

    Then, a slow nod.

    It was the only thing Dane needed to know that the alliance between the five princes had now be official. Not long after, a light frown had appeared on his face, instantly working his mind to the maximum as he pondered as to what the Ninth Prince could do to be able to stand on equal footing as the Third Prince¡¯s alliance.

    Eventually, the most obvious solution appeared in his mind as he asked Cerius, ¡°If Vanadir were to ally himself with the three other princes, would he have a fighting chance in winning the war for the throne?¡±

    Cerius responded by shrugging his shoulders as he replied, ¡°I have no idea if his chances of winning are certain since I¡¯m not privy to that kind of information, but I can assure you that he wouldn¡¯t be at a disadvantage against their alliance when the war starts.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s enough assurance for me,¡± Dane said as he thanked Cerius for informing him about news regarding the Third Prince¡¯s movements. After allowing Cerius to leave the room he was in, Dane instantly cast his teleportation spell with the Ninth Prince¡¯s pavilion as his destination in mind.

    ¡­

    Whoosh!

    It did not take long for Dane to arrive at the Ninth Prince¡¯s pavilion, only taking about ten minutes or so given the proximity of the Arcana Tower to the Seraph Kingdom¡¯s royal pce. Nevertheless, the sun was already at its peak, showing just how much time had passed for him while he was waiting for Cerius toe.

    Appearing near the entrance of the pavilion, he instantly saw Vanadir brandishing his de, doing the basic de movements in a swift yet efficient manner. On the other hand, two girls were inside the pavilion¡¯s guest room with their eyes closed, allowing certain energy particles to revolve around them.

    Surrounding one girl were energy particles the color of crimson. In an instant, one would realize that this was none other than the Healing Witch of the West, Valentia Arcenon.

    As for the other girl, energy particles that radiate a faint white light surrounded her. At times, one would even feel a caring air surrounding her, given how she had the moniker Great Fortress. This was none other than Griselle.

    ¡°Ah, Dane. You finally came.¡± Noticing that Dane had just arrived in front of the pavilion, Vanadir looked at him and greeted him with a smile. He then went ahead and sheathed his de as he wiped off his sweat. As for the two, they stopped what they were doing, looking in the direction of the two.

    ¡°I have done the things you have requested me to do, Your Highness.¡± Dane lightly bowed in front of the Ninth Prince as he said this. In response, a solemn expression appeared on Vanadir¡¯s face as he briefly looked at the two girls behind her before asking, ¡°Tell me. What did that High Executive say?¡±

    ¡°It is as the Highness predicts,¡± Dane responding without beating around the bush. ¡°The alliance between the Third, Fourth, Seventh, Tenth, and Eleventh Prince is official.¡±

    Hearing five princes being mentioned, Valentia could not help but gasp in shock while Griselle¡¯s eyes widened in response. As for Vanadir, a slight frown appeared on his face as he muttered to himself, ¡°Arshe, what are you trying to achieve?¡±

    After some time, Vanadir took in a deep breath before letting it out as he allowed his emotions to calm down from the news. He then beckoned Dane toe with him, to which thetter lightly nodded as Vanadir went ahead and made some tea for Dane and himself.

    Sitting down on one of the chairs in the guest room, the Ninth Prince took a light sip of the tea he brewed before looking at Dane and asking, ¡°Did that High Executive say anything else after that?¡±

    ¡°The High Executive states that the Highness should try to ally with the other princes if one wants to still have a chance at the war for the throne,¡± Dane answered, to which Vanadir lightly chuckled as he said not long after, ¡°As expected.¡±

    After that, Vanadir looked at the three and said, ¡°Valentia, Griselle, head out to the city for today and leave me and Dane here for now.¡±

    In response, Valentia asked with a serious expression, thinking over the reasoning behind Vanadir¡¯s words, ¡°Are you nning to meet up with one of the princes in your pavilionter?¡±

    ¡°As expected of my cousin,¡± Vanadir said in response with a light smile. ¡°Tonight, I¡¯ll be meeting up with the First Prince and hope to the heavens that I could rope him over.¡±

    ¡°The First Prince?¡± Griselle could not help but find it weird that Vanadir mentioned the First Prince. ¡°Didn¡¯t the First Prince say early on that he wasn¡¯t participating in the war for the throne?¡±

    ¡°Oh, that was just at the start,¡± Vanadir said in response. ¡°If his news collecting abilities are as good as mine, then he knows very well that he has no choice but to participate and join an alliance.¡±

    Although Valentia and Griselle were slightly perplexed as to why the First Prince did that, they decided to follow Vanadir¡¯s words, lest they messed up his preparations. And with that, the two of them temporarily left the kingdom¡¯s royal pce to stay somewhere else for the time being while Vanadir and Dane waited for night to fall.

    ¡­

    Thud. Thud.

    As the two were sipping on some hot coffee to wake up their slightly sleepy minds, the sound of faint footsteps gradually getting louder in their direction alerted the two of them. Without hesitation, they stood up and looked in the direction of the sound¡¯s origin, being greeted by the sight of a well-built man in his early 30s.

    With a scar that went through his left eye, the aura of magnanimity behind ferocity could be felt around this man if one examined closely. At the moment though, no trace of that aura could be seen as the man wore casual clothes. Nevertheless, this man was none other than the First Prince of the Seraph Kingdom, Zeldrion Seraph II.

    ¡°It¡¯s been a long time since we¡¯vest met, Ninth Brother,¡± Zeldrion made his way to the guest room and sat himself down, greeting Vanadir in front of him. In response, a light smile appeared on Vanadir¡¯s face as he replied, ¡°Indeed. Thest time I met you was at the royal banquet about a decade ago.¡±

    ¡°In any case, let¡¯s not beat around the bush,¡± he continued as a solemn expression appeared on his face. ¡°Big Brother, I¡¯m sure you¡¯ve heard of the news that Arshe has allied with Fourth, Seventh, Tenth, and Eleventh Brother, right?¡±

    ¡°I have, yes,¡± Zeldrion replied as he grabbed a cup of coffee for himself, sipping a bit of it.

    ¡°Then, you know what¡¯s going toe out of mouth next, right?¡± Vanadir asked in response, to which Zeldrion nodded, saying, ¡°I do.¡±

    ¡°Well, before I ask that question, please satiate my curiosity first, Big Brother,¡± Vanadir said, surprisingly changing the topic. ¡°Is there a reason as to why you announced you weren¡¯t participating in the war for the throne at the beginning?¡±

    ¡°Of course there is,¡± Zeldrion replied with a light nod. Just as Vanadir was about to have his curiosity satisfied, Zeldrion¡¯s words left him sighing. ¡°Unfortunately, those reasons aren¡¯t ready to be known by the world yet. But when the time is right, you¡¯ll be the first one to know of it.¡±

    ¡°If you say so,¡± Vanadir said as he shrugged his shoulders with a sigh. ¡°Anyway, let me now ask the question that we¡¯ve both been waiting for.¡±

    ¡°Big Brother, would you like to form an alliance with me so we could stand on equal ground as Third Brother?¡±

    Hearing that question, Zeldrion went silent for a bit as he pondered over it. After some time, a light smile appeared on his face as he said one word.

    ¡°No.¡±

    ¡°No?¡± Vanadir could not help but feel confused after hearing that response. Knowing the First Prince very well, he wouldn¡¯t deny a request to form an alliance after being given the knowledge that the Third Prince had formed an alliance with four more princes. But right in front of him, the First Prince had done just that.

    Just as he was about to ask Zeldrion why, Zeldrion then let out a light chuckle as he said, ¡°Don¡¯t take it as me rejecting your proposition. But instead¡­¡±

    ¡°¡­interpret it as me inviting you to my alliance.¡±

    ¡°How about it, Ninth Brother? Would you like to form an alliance with me?¡±

 Chapter 357: An Unexpected Prophecy

    Chapter 357: An Unexpected Prophecy

    Eventually, the two of them had arrived at the za where the pedestal showing the various Origin Factions were located. Surprisingly, by the time they had arrived, arge flock of people were dashing to where the two of them were, prompting Cardis to lightly grin from the sight while Argentum, on the other hand, could not help but let out a sigh in response.

    With a slightly dejected aura surrounding him, he looked at Cardis and asked, ¡°Is there really no way to escape this predicament?¡±

    ¡°Well, you are the Origin Sage, so you could always ask them to not do that,¡± Cardis responded with a light chuckle before actually giving a serious answer, ¡°But that would just tarnish your reputation among those who want to learn from the Origin Sage itself. If I were you, I¡¯d respond to a few questions regarding the Origin and then stop. I think that¡¯s what Torvas did while he was the Origin Sage.¡±

    Seeing as he could not escape this situation in any way, Argentum eventually epted his fate,mitting Cardis¡¯s advice to memory as he radiated an aura of solemnity while responding to the questions that were being thrown at him every second. After some time, he politely told the crowd that had surrounded him to leave the premises as he had something else to do.

    Surprisingly, Cardis¡¯s advice had worked, with the people that came to ask him regarding the Origin not feeling any ill intent from his words. Of course, there were some that had frowns on their faces after hearing that, but that was because their questions hadn¡¯t been answered. Nevertheless, the crowd had left the two of them alone, allowing Argentum to let out a sigh of relief.

    Coincidentally, by the time the crowd surrounding Cardis and Argentum had left, the za started to tremble with great force, catching some off guard as they screamed out in fear. As for the majority, their eyes glistened with expectation and excitement as they focused their visions towards the pedestals at the za center.

    Even Cardis had an expression of excitement on his face as he looked at the za center, telling Argentum, ¡°Hey, Argentum. You better keep your eyes peeled for what¡¯s going to happen to the pedestals.¡±

    ¡°Hmm?¡± Although Argentum did not have any eyes as a Pseudo-Animate, he still did have an enhanced sense of visionpared to other Pseudo-Animates, allowing him to clearly see what was happening at the center of the za.

    By the time he had found his footing, the trembling of the ground had weakened by at least half, allowing everyone in the premises to focus their sights on what was happening at the za center. Fortunately, it did not take long for their curiosities to be satisfied as the outermost pedestals started to move outwards, with the inner pedestals doing the same thing as well.

    Not long after, a gaprge enough for another pedestal to be there had appeared in the centermost region of the pedestals, to which Argentum instantly realized what was going to happen.

    Rumble¡­

    Slowly but surely, a white cylinder started to protrude out of the gap in the center. With every passing second, the speed at which the white cylinder became taller would increase, eventually reaching a height equivalent to the pedestal that housed the Cycle within half a minute.

    Unsurprisingly, this new white pedestal didn¡¯t stop growing, surpassing the height of the pedestal that housed the Cycle a few secondster. It had only stopped growing after it had reached the height of the pedestal of the Cycle, Unity, and Lifebined.

    Naturally, such a sight left the masses at a loss for words as they did not expect that the Origin Sage some were talking to a while ago would be able toprehend the Origin to an extremely deep level. Cardis could not help but look at Argentum after the white pedestal had reached its peak, asking, ¡°Argentum¡­are you sure you¡¯re not trained by some sort ofrge organization beforehand or something?¡±

    ¡°No?¡± Argentum tilted his head in confusion after hearing that question. ¡°Even if I was part of some organization before entering the Origin Pantheon, why would they pay attention to a Normal-grade Pseudo-Animate like me?¡±

    ¡°Ah¡­fair point,¡± Cardis said soon after, with Argentum¡¯s words instantly making sense. Although his words sounded harsh, Argentum was saying nothing but the truth. All of the prominent organizations in the world he was in was led by Animates, given how Erudinia was akin to the world of ISE. Of course, there were strong Pseudo-Animate and Inanimate organizations throughout Erudinia as well, but they were incredibly rare.

    He soon added, ¡°It¡¯s just unbelievable that you wouldprehend the Origin to such an extent. No one would really expect that a Pseudo-Animate like you would do such a thing. Even I, your friend, am in disbelief.¡±

    ¡°If you¡¯re still in disbelief, then just attribute it to luck,¡± Argentum responded half-jokingly as he couldn¡¯t be bothered to exin himself. After that, he redirected his sense of vision back to the central white pedestal, noticing that a white sphere was starting to form a couple of meters above it.

    Soon after, this white sphere had taken on the appearance of Earth before radiating an intense aura of pure Origin towards the surroundings. This aura of pure Origin left some in a state of deepprehension while some were left in a state of intense shock. If anything, Argentum was the only one that was unaffected by it.

    Noticing that Cardis had frozen in ce like a statue, Argentum tapped on his shoulders to snap him back to reality as he told him, ¡°Hey, Cardis. Let¡¯s explore the whole Origin Pantheon.¡±

    ¡°Ah.¡± With Argentum¡¯s taps, Cardis was instantly brought back to reality as he slowly nodded while saying, ¡°Y-yeah.¡±

    But just as the two were about to turn around and head towards another portion of the Origin Pantheon, a man that exuded an aura of the Origin that was half as intense as the aura from before had appeared in front of them as he said, ¡°How about I take your friend here for a tour instead?¡±

    In an instant, Cardis and Argentum recognized who that person was. It was none other than the previous Origin Sage of the Origin Pantheon, Torvas.

    ¡°Torvas!¡± With a grin on his face, Cardis greeted Torvas before snapping his fingers as a rift appeared near where Torvas was. Not long after, a huge amount of Transcendent Stones dropped from the rift before closing up as he said, ¡°Many thanks for the Transcendent Stones you¡¯ve given me. If not for you, I might have not been able to pay for their bets.¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t mind it, don¡¯t mind it,¡± Torvas waved his hands as he replied with a light chuckle, using a bit of his energy to transport the Transcendent Stones given to him to another ce. After that, he looked at Argentum and asked with a slightly cautious tone, ¡°Your name is¡­Argentum, right?¡±

    ¡°That would be me,¡± Argentum said in response, lightly nodding. Letting out a sigh of relief, Torvas then looked at Cardis and said, ¡°Cardis, if you don¡¯t mind, can I be the one that would take Argentum on a tour of the Origin Pantheon?¡±

    Without hesitation, Cardis lightly smiled in response as he said, ¡°But of course! Of course! Since you helped me out on the betting session, then it¡¯s only natural for me to reciprocate the favor.¡±

    With that, Cardis left the two to themselves. Of course, that was after he left Argentum a few more words.

    ¡°May we meet again, Argentum. If you need me, just call out my name!¡±

    Whoosh!

    And with that, he had disappeared from their fields of vision in less than a second.

    ¡°Ehem.¡± Lightly coughing to break the awkward silence between the two of them, Torvas looked at Argentum and asked, ¡°So¡­shall we start our tour?¡±

    Although he did not know why Torvas opted to be his tour guide for the Origin Pantheon, he wasn¡¯t someone who rejected goodwill. In response to his question, he nodded as he shrugged his shoulders, saying, ¡°Sure. Why not?¡±

    And so, the two then explored the entire Origin Pantheon, with Torvas acting as Argentum¡¯s tour guide along the way. Surprisingly, Torvas did not skimp out on exining the purpose and history behind each ce, giving Argentum a good impression of the man. Even when Argentum had some questions that needed rification, he would have an answer prepared beforehand.

    Eventually, after another week or so, the two had finally explored every nook and cranny of the Origin Pantheon, finally allowing Argentum to create a mental map of the area for himself. Not only that, but he felt that he had be closer with Torvas throughout this week. Now, even if someone told him that Torvas used to be an Origin Sage and was someone at the Transcendent level, he wouldn¡¯t care about that since he knew that Torvas would recognize him.

    Sitting on a bench under arge tree, the two of them looked at the vast blue sky with smiles on their faces, feeling their souls being healed by the wondrous sight in front of them.

    After some time, Torvas took in a deep breath and looked at Argentum, asking, ¡°Hey, Argentum. Did I tell you before that I dabble in divination?¡±

    ¡°I think you mentioned that a few times along the way,¡± Argentum said in response, recalling Torvas¡¯s words throughout the tour.

    With a light nod, Torvas then asked him, ¡°How about I give you a prophecy? No, wait. Make that two prophecies.¡±

    ¡°Two prophecies? What for?¡± Although Argentum felt that Torvas¡¯s offer was somewhat suspicious, the feeling Torvas gave him this past week was enough for him to think that this suspicion was unfounded.

    In response, Torvas lightly smiled as he replied, ¡°Just take it as a token of thanks for spending time with me this past week. So, how about it? Do you want the two prophecies or not?¡±

    ¡°Well, why not?¡± After mulling over it for a bit, Argentum eventually agreed to the offer, seeing as there was no harm in having his future predicted. Who knows? He might benefit from such a prophecy in the future.

    With Argentum agreeing to his offer, Torvas nodded in response before closing his eyes as a series of magic circles started to appear around him. Not long after, these magic circles then connected with one another through arge chain of mana as the aura of peering through everything surrounded Torvas at this moment.

    These linked up magic circles then gradually became smaller, eventually being absorbed by Torvas¡¯s forehead as he opened his eyes. Giving off the atmosphere of a wise sage, Torvas solemnly looked at Argentum and said with a serious tone, ¡°The first prophecy.¡±

    ¡°Within a short amount of time, you shall surprise the world by exuding strength far beyond your existence level. Although this would make everyone fear you, it would also make some of them covet you.¡±

    ¡°Eventually, one of them shall seed and capture you for their own benefit. Naturally, you would try to escape it as much as possible, but due to your state of insanity, that was deemed impossible.¡±

    Hearing Torvas¡¯s prophecy, Argentum could not help but feel that he had heard something familiar in the past. After rummaging through his memories, he eventually realized that the prophecy gave him the same feeling from another person¡¯s warning towards him. Well, to be more exact, it was Kevin¡¯s warning to Aurus, telling him how he was going to be in danger in the future.

    In the end, Kevin¡¯s warning had turned out useless as Aurus did not fall into danger at all. With that in mind, Argentum instantly thought of Torvas¡¯s prophecy as something he should take note of, but not take seriously.

    ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll keep that in mind,¡± Argentum said after Torvas was finished speaking. In response, Torvas nodded as he said, ¡°Do keep it in mind for it is not a prophecy for you, but for your original body.¡±

    At that instant, multiple red gs set off inside Argentum¡¯s mind as he did not mention even once that he had an original body to Torvas. Hearing those wordse out of his mouth, he could not help but think to himself with a hint of uncertainty, ¡®Perhaps¡­this prophecy might be true?¡¯

    Nevertheless, he had no way to prove that it was true as it had not happened yet. In the end, he made sure to keep it in mind and ry it to Aurus once he left the Origin Pantheon. After bing silent for a bit more, he then looked at Torvas and asked, ¡°How about the second prophecy?¡±

    ¡°This prophecy is targeted towards you,¡± Torvas said as he took in a deep breath. Not long after, the aura one would feel from someone who had lived for thousands of years exuded from him as he solemnly recited.

    ¡°Unlike your original body, you shall change thendscape of the world itself with your might and wits. You shall be recognized by the masses, but at the same time, you shall be despised by the great powers. Nevertheless, in front of a great enemy, you shall turn into their greatest might.¡±

    ¡°Your presence shall continue to spread throughout the world, only to be stopped by those of a higher realm. If you surpass this obstacle, then your future journey shall have no problems.¡±

    Hearing this, Argentum noticed that this prophecy contained a way for him to make sure that it wouldn¡¯te true. With that in mind, he then asked Torvas, ¡°Is there a way for the first prophecy to not be true?¡±

    In response, Torvas let out a light sigh as he responded, ¡°Unfortunately, I cannot tell you any more than that for I might be smitten down by the heavens.¡±

    After that, Torvas stood up from the bench and started to walk away, leaving Argentum only a few words before he left.

    ¡°I can assure you that once you enter the Transcendent World, I shall tell you even more. For now, just remember that once you enter the Transcendent World, find the Lost Origin Pavilion.¡±

    ¡°Only there shall you find out how to stop the first prophecy from happening.¡±

 Chapter 358: Evolving to Magic Grade

    Chapter 358: Evolving to Magic Grade

    While Torvas had left Argentum to himself after giving him two prophecies to think about, Argentum was currently making his mind ponder over those prophecies to the limit, wondering if his words would be true in the future or not. Surprisingly, after thinking about it for about ten minutes or so, he had returned a state of calmness as he thought to himself, ¡®There¡¯s no point worrying about something that will happen in the future. In any case, it¡¯s better to consider it as a heads-up so I wouldn¡¯t be caught unprepared once it happens.¡¯

    ¡®Speaking of being caught unprepared, should I tell Aurus about his prophecy?¡¯ he soon thought not long after, eventuallying to the conclusion that it wouldn¡¯t hurt to tell Aurus about it, given how Kevin had told him of a prophecy regarding him being in danger. Sure, the prophecy didn¡¯t happen, but he did take note of it, utilizing the [Spirit Clone] skill to create Argentum in preparation for this danger¡­though he eventually realized that the skill was actually [Spirit Imbuement].

    Nevertheless, with his mind now set, he stood up from the bench he was sitting on and made his way back to where he had first appeared in the Origin Pantheon. With the help of his movement speed boosting spells he had created through the four Sage¡¯s Magic skills he had, it did not take long for him to arrive at the entry point of the Origin Pantheon.

    Asking a person nearby as to how he would be able to leave the Origin Pantheon, he soon obtained the method of leaving. With that, he allowed his mana to radiate throughout the surroundings and meld with the atmosphere as a resonance between the Origin Pantheon and his energy had urred. Not long after, his body had disappeared from the Origin Pantheon¡¯s entry point without a trace, returning him to where he hade from.

    Whoosh!

    Unlike entering the Origin Pantheon, it took him less than an instant for him to appear in the outside world once more, noticing that he had appeared in the same ce where he had formed [Lesser Origin Affinity]. After softly telling himself that it was good to be back in Erudinia, he then employed the help of the system by marking the me Spirit Inheritance¡¯s location on the map. After that, he activated his movement speed boosting spells once more, allowing him to arrive at the entrance of the me Spirit Inheritance in half an hour or so.

    At this moment, the sun was at its peak, shining down at the ground with its strongest rays¡­to which Argentum couldn¡¯t care less thanks to [True Fire Affinity]. Channeling his energy towards a certain point in his body, he was soon connected to Eleanor as he said, ¡°Eleanor, I¡¯m in front of the me Spirit Inheritance. Could you let me in?¡±

    ¡°Argentum?!¡± Not expecting Argentum to contact him out of the blue, Eleanor was surprised to hear him talk through their connection. Hastily calming herself down, instead of doing what he asked her, she instead asked him, ¡°How did you do in the Origin Trials?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll tell you about thatter,¡± Argentum hastily replied as he continued, ¡°For now, just let me enter the inheritance.¡±

    ¡°Alright, alright. Give me a second.¡± Noticing that Argentum was trying to make her hurry up, Eleanor went ahead and teleported him to where he was, even though she was slightly curious as to what made him hurry her up.

    After appearing at the center of Eleanor¡¯s room, Argentum could not help but let out a light sigh of relief as he felt more assured inside this ce. While Argentum was pondering as to what he should do next, Eleanor went ahead and asked him, ¡°So, mind telling me how you fared in the Origin Trials?¡±

    ¡°Given that my body has changed color, I¡¯m pretty sure you already have an idea of what happened, Eleanor,¡± Argentum said sinctly. ¡°If you want more proof, I can even show you my Origin Core.¡±

    ¡°Origin Core? That means¡­you seeded?¡± Although Eleanor didn¡¯t dabble in the world of the Origin, she still heard a few things from those that do,mitting the term ¡®Origin Core¡¯ into memory. Recalling what she knew about those who dabbled in the world of the Origin, the ¡®Origin Core¡¯ was basically a sign that they had been fully epted by the Origin and had be sessful at the Origin Trials.

    With a light nod, Argentum had answered his question. Of course, Eleanor could not help but be happy for him, eager to give him a big hug to congratte him. But just as she was about to do so, Argentum asked her, ¡°Do you know where Aurus is?¡±

    Unsurprisingly, Argentum¡¯s question had killed Eleanor¡¯s excitement, with the serious aura surrounding him killing it even more. Lightly coughing to hastily adjust her demeanor, Eleanor went silent for a bit as she gestured with her hands, manipting the energy controlling the inheritance. A few secondster, a corridor connecting to another room of the inheritance had appeared, allowing Argentum to see a jade green entity sitting cross-legged at the end of the corridor.

    With that, Eleanor told Argentum, ¡°He apanied Herellia for about a day before asking me if I could allocate him a room so he could hone his skills. It¡¯s been about a day since he entered that room.¡±

    ¡°I see,¡± Argentum said as he nodded in response. He then thanked Eleanor, telling her that once he was finished talking with Aurus, he would tell her what happened in the Origin Trials. Hearing that, Eleanor¡¯s slight anger had disappeared, being reced with a hint of expectation as Argentum made his way to where Aurus was.

    At the very moment he had appeared in front of Aurus, he noticed a raging wave of blood red particles surrounded Aurus, as if he had turned into an entity that controlled blood and wind at the same time. But after examining the blood red particles for a while, he noticed that these blood red particles were actually connected to Aurus.

    Realizing this, he knew that Aurus was possibly grinding out a skill, prompting him to scratch his head if it was the right thing to disturb him. Fortunately, Aurus had noticed Argentum¡¯s presence as the blood red particles surrounding him had disappeared while his sense of vision had focused on Argentum in front of him.

    Standing up, Aurus looked at Argentum from head to toe and asked, ¡°Did you pass the Origin Trials?¡±

    ¡°You bet,¡± Argentum radiated an aura of slight joy as he responded, prompting Aurus to let out a chuckle in response as he asked in response, ¡°So, did youe here to ask me to fight you?¡±

    ¡°Nope. I have something else to tell you,¡± Argentum shook his head as he replied, piquing Aurus¡¯s interest as he asked, ¡°What is it?¡±

    Just as Argentum was about to exin that he had met someone in the Origin Pantheon that gave him two prophecies, he eventually remembered that he could just share his memories with Aurus. With that, he activated [Experience Sharing] and converted it to the [Memory Sharing] skill, allowing him to share his memories regarding the Origin Pantheon with Aurus.

    Wondering why Argentum had instantly be silent, Aurus was about to ask, only to notice that an influx of memories had entered his mind, instantly thinking that Argentum was the one who sent this to him. With that, he had gone silent as well as he looked through the various memories Argentum sent him.

    At first, he was proud for Argentum as he had basically broken the long-standing hierarchy of the Origin Pantheon in terms of Originprehension¡­or so it seemed. But then, after continuing to look through the memories Argentum had given him, he then noticed that a person had told Argentum of two prophecies, one directed at Argentum, and one¡­directed at him.

    Closing his sense of vision for a bit as he pondered over the prophecy, he eventually looked at Argentum and asked, ¡°Is this the reason why you wanted to find me? The prophecy?¡±

    ¡°I wouldn¡¯t havee here in a rush if not for this,¡± Argentum said in response before continuing, ¡°I feel like this prophecy is akin to Kevin¡¯s prophecy in the past. Although there¡¯s a low chance of it happening, I have a hunch that we should heed this prophecy more than we think.¡±

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡± Aurus mulled over Argentum¡¯s words before eventually saying, ¡°Your words do make sense, but at this point, I think it¡¯s better to think of it as something that¡¯s near impossible to happen. Remember how Kevin told me that I would be able to escape danger if I used [Spirit Clone]? Indeed, I used the skill, creating you, but did I fall into danger at all? Not even once.¡±

    ¡°Although this Torvas guy is at the Transcendent level, there¡¯s no need for us to pay it any heed,¡± Aurus said soon after, prompting Argentum to scratch his head before letting out a sigh. Even though Argentum and Aurus basically shared the same soul, at this point, Argentum could not help but feel like Aurus was different from him. He felt like Aurus had be more headstrong and arrogant because of his strength. Sure, he also felt that way from time to time, but not as much as Aurus.

    Eventually, he ced this thought at the back of his head as he left the prophecies up to fate. If it happened, then it happened. If it didn¡¯t, then it didn¡¯t.

    After talking with Aurus for a bit more regarding another topic, Argentum eventually left Aurus on his own once more as he made his way back to where Eleanor was. Naturally, the aura surrounding Eleanor was that of heightened expectation as she was waiting for his narration regarding the Origin Trials.

    Shrugging his shoulders in response, Argentum then started narrating the various things that had happened while he was undergoing the Origin Trials. Of course, he omitted the part where he had obtained two prophecies from Torvas, twisting his words to where Eleanor would interpret it as a situation where the two Origin Sages had be acquaintances.

    At the end of his exnation, Eleanor went ahead and gave Argentum a big hug as she congratted him for what he was able to achieve in the Origin Pantheon. Not only that, but she thanked him for allowing her to know more about the world of the Origin, as well as the various things that go on in there.

    ¡°So, what are you nning to do next?¡± Eleanor asked after Argentum was finished narrating his adventures in the Origin Pantheon.

    Argentum pondered over the question for a bit before replying with, ¡°I guess I¡¯ll evolve to the Magic grade. Now that I¡¯ve achieved Lesser Origin, there¡¯s no point dying my evolution further. After that¡­I guess I¡¯ll have to ask Felix, Rosalia, and your help regarding something I¡¯m nning in the future.¡±

    Listening to Argentum¡¯s first statement, she thought that it was a given for him to do so, given how he was already able to unleash a level of strength beyond his current grade. As for the next statement, it had definitely piqued her interest.

    ¡°What do you need my help with?¡± Eleanor asked, her curiosity getting the better of her. In response, Argentum chuckled with a hint of mystery surrounding him as he said, ¡°I¡¯ll let you know when the time is right.¡±

    After telling Eleanor a few more things she needed to do when Aurus asked her, he then left the me Spirit Inheritance and headed towards an area of the Inferno ins that was devoid of life once more. He then went silent for a bit before deciding to utilize [Niflheim Horizon] to make sure that a being wouldn¡¯t even get close to him if there was one nearby.

    With the ground around a certain radius surrounding him now made out of ice, he then sat down on the ground cross-legged and closed his sense of vision as hemanded the system in his mind, ¡°System, I would like to evolve to the next grade.¡±

    Ding!

    Apanied by a notification sound, the feminine-sounding voice of the system resounded throughout his mind not long after, telling him, ¡°You have met the necessary requirements to evolve the next grade, the Magic grade. As your current species is incredibly rare in the world of Erudinia, there are no evolution choices for you to choose from.¡±

    Although Argentum was slightly surprised to hear that, he did not think it was weird as well, given how Lesser Origin was a higher-tiered element than the four foundational elements. Of course, the system wasn¡¯t finished talking, asking him soon after.

    ¡°The species that you shall evolve into is the Lesser Origin Spirit. Would you like to evolve right now?¡±

    Naturally, only one answer coulde out of Argentum¡¯s mouth at this point.

    ¡°Yes.¡±

    Ding!

    ¡®¡­¡¯

    ¡®¡­¡¯

    ¡®[Argentum ¡ª Lesser Origin Elemental] has evolved into [Argentum ¡ª Lesser Origin Spirit].¡¯

 Chapter 359: Preparing for the Future

    Chapter 359: Preparing for the Future

    Agreeing to the prompt the system had given him, his body had instantly undergone a massive change in less than an instant. Although not much could be said in terms of his appearance, in terms of hisbat power, it had undergone a massive transformation as the gray energy forming his body had be more dense, allowing it to radiate an aura of the Origin that was slightly more intense than before. Other than that, not much has changed to Argentum¡¯s body.

    Nevertheless, Argentum felt that he had be stronger. Of course, with the system notifying him that his species had changed from Lesser Origin Elemental to Lesser Origin Spirit, that meant the change was official. Doing some basic movements with his newly evolved body, he felt that there was more force behind his movements, prompting him to think that there was a possibility for him to defeat trained Rank 0 Animates without utilizing any of his status boosting buffs. Perhaps, he could even fight against newly ascended Rank 1 Animates to a standstill with his current power.

    After limating himself to his newfound power for a short while, he thenmanded the system to use all of the unused experience points he still had, raising him to the maximum level in less than an instant while being left with around 20,000 points of experience to spare.

    With him now at the maximum level, he now felt that he could beat himself up from before hundreds of times before running out of energy. Not only that, he even had a feeling that he could probably be on par with Felix at half power with his status boosting buffs thanks to the increase in stats brought by his level.

    Naturally, he was curious as to how much his stats had increased since he felt hisbat power increase by a few times by just reaching the max level. With that in mind, hemanded the system to bring up his status screen, to which the system hastilyplied with as a small holographic screen appeared in front of his field of vision.

    In less than an instant, the numbers he could see from his stats left him at a loss for words as he instantly calcted that the stats he had right now were more than enough for him to be considered as a decently strong Rank 1 Animate. On some stats, he even felt that he had reached the Rank 2 Animate level.

    Ding!

    ________

    [Argentum] (Level 20/20)

    Experience: MAX

    Species: Lesser Origin Spirit

    Existence Level: Pseudo-Animate

    Grade: Magic

    Power Baptism: 1

    ¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª

    [HP]: 2350/2350

    [MP]: 8720/8720

    ¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª

    Stats:

    Vitality ¨C 235 (x10)

    Strength ¨C 202 (x10)

    Defense ¨C 241 (x10)

    Agility ¨C 300 (x10)

    Intelligence ¨C 300 (x10)

    ________

    ¡°To think obtaining partial ownership over the Desecrated Inheritance would boost my stats by this much,¡± Argentum muttered to himself with a chuckle of disbelief as he remembered that that was also why Aurus was stronger than Inanimates of the same grade. Eventually, he had limated to his newfound strength once again before dispersing the world of frost surrounding him.

    After that, he went silent for a bit before his mind had decided on what he should do next. Commanding the system, he brought up the map once more as he ced on a marker on a certain location he had almost forgotten.

    With a light grin as he activated all of his movement speed boosting spells, he then muttered to himself, ¡°It¡¯s time to set some things straight.¡±

    ¡°Time to be the leader of Verdant Breeze Town.¡±

    Whoosh!

    ¡­

    With the boost in Agility given by him evolving to the Magic grade and reaching the max level beingpounded by his movement speed boosting spells, Argentum had surprisingly arrived at the outskirts of Verdant Breeze Town by the time the sun was about to set, multiple times faster than the speed at which Blob took to arrive at the same ce.

    After that, he then dispelled all of the movement speed boosting spells applied on him as he gradually walked towards the gate that served as the entrance to Verdant Breeze Town. Of course, just as he was about halfway to reaching the entrance gate, he then remembered something he should have done beforehand.

    ¡°Since I¡¯m now a Magic-grade Pseudo-Animate, I can finally use this,¡± Argentum muttered to himself as he allowed the energy in his body to circte over his body¡¯s surface. Not long after, the gray energy making up his body was soon reced with the sight of human flesh while his face had taken on the features one would see when looking at a person. After a few more seconds, the aura surrounding Argentum had changed as well, giving off the feeling that Argentum was not a Pseudo-Animate anymore, but a true and blue human.

    ¡°[False Visage of the Animate] truly works wonders,¡± Argentum muttered to himself as he used his energy to take a good look at himself, emting his appearance from his previous life with a few modifications here and there, mostly on the height area. Noticing that he was naked, he then used a bit more of his energy to create clothes that made him look like a traveler that came from far away. He then stood in ce for a bit, allowing him to get a feel as to how much of his mana was being consumed every second. In the end, he had calcted that the amount of energy, in addition to his regeneration rate, would be enough for him tost about half a day in this appearance.

    Being assured that his facade wouldst for half a day, he then sped towards the entrance gate, noticing that the gates were about to close. Fortunately, the guards guarding the entrance gate noticed his presence, prompting them to dy the closing of the gate only after Argentum had gotten in.

    After Argentum had gotten in, he then thanked the guards that dyed the closing of the gate before making his way to the manor where the previous leader of Verdant Breeze Town resided. While making his way to the manor, he could not help but look at his surroundings, noticing that the people living in the town were now living far better than before Felix had killed Irren, the previous leader of Verdant Breeze Town.

    With a light smile hanging on his face, he eventually arrived in front of the gates that led to the manor, which was well-lit even at this time. Naturally, he was barred entry by the guards that guarded the manor¡¯s gate as one of them shouted at Argentum, ¡°Halt! State your identity and purpose.¡±

    Knowing that they were just doing their jobs, Argentum took in a deep breath and said in an unhurried manner, ¡°My name is Argentum. As for my purpose, tell that leader of yours¡­¡±

    ¡°¡­that the esteemed sirs from before havee back.¡±

    At first, the guards looked at Argentum as if he had be insane. But then, one of them remembered an incident that happened in Verdant Breeze Town about a month ago, prompting them to look at Argentum with a hint of shock as the man asked, ¡°Are you perhaps¡­one of those esteemed sirs?¡±

    In response, Argentum lightly smiled before nodding, knowing what was going on inside the guard¡¯s mind. With that as confirmation, the guard then told Argentum, ¡°Understood. I¡¯ll call the leader as soon as possible.¡±

    Just as the guard was about to head into the manor, one of the guards stopped him and asked, ¡°What are you trying to do?¡±

    In response, the guard that was just about to head into the manor said to the guard that stopped him, ¡°I should be the one asking you that. Why are you barring one of the esteemed sirs that helped us escape Irren¡¯s rule?¡±

    At that instant, the guards¡¯ opinion of Argentum had instantly changed, allowing the guard that was about to head into the manor to continue onward while the remaining guards looked at Argentum with a hint of awe and reverence.

    After some time, the guard that entered the manor had returned to the gate with another man in tow. Seeing this man, Argentum instantly knew that the person he had chosen to be the proxy leader of this town had worked hard. Taking note of the white strands of hair on the man¡¯s head while the battle-hardened face of his had gained a bit of softness, this well-clothed man in front of him was none other than Delmann, the proxy leader Argentum and the guards had chosen about a month ago.

    Taking a look at the young man near the gates of the manor, he then took the words of the guards beside him into consideration as he asked Argentum, ¡°Are you really¡­one of those esteemed sirs from that incident?¡±

    In response, Argentum lightly chuckled as he said to Delmann, ¡°Bless the winds of verdant breeze¡­¡±

    ¡°¡­for we shall stand as tall as trees.¡± Hearing the statement Argentum gave him, Delmann instantly knew that the guard beside him was not lying at all. One of the esteemed sirs from that incident had actuallye back!

    With his eyes glistening in excitement, Delmann hastily grabbed Argentum by the hand as he looked at the other guards and say, ¡°Make sure no one knows of this news! We shall officially announce this in the future!¡±

    And with that, Delmann and Argentum hastily headed towards the manor while the guards that were left guarding the manor¡¯s gates started to discuss in excitement the feats Argentum and his friends had done the previous time they were here in Verdant Breeze Town.

    ¡­

    Brewing a cup of tea for Argentum, Delmann then sat on a chair opposite Argentum as he told him, ¡°It¡¯s nice to see you again, esteemed sir.¡±

    ¡°Call me Argentum, Delmann,¡± Argentum said in response before taking a sip of the tea given to him. ¡°Ah, good tea.¡±

    ¡°So, what brings you back here so early, Sir Argentum?¡± Delmann asked before adding, ¡°You did tell me that there was a chance that it might take a long time for you toe back.¡±

    ¡°Fortunately, the problems on my end have all been resolved, allowing me to focus all of my attention on this town once more,¡± Argentum responded, giving an excuse he made up on the spot. ¡°In any case, you do know what my appearance means, right?¡±

    ¡°But of course,¡± Delmann responded as he nodded. ¡°From this day henceforth, Argentum shall now be the leader of Verdant Breeze Town.¡±

    Ding!

    Surprisingly, just as Delmann announced that, a notification sound resounded throughout Argentum¡¯s mind, prompting him to look at it.

    ¡®You have obtained the passive skill [Lord of Verdant Breeze Town].¡¯

    In an instant, he felt that hisbat power had risen to a slight degree, confirming Felix¡¯s words from the past that bing the leader of a town would increase hisbat power. After taking in a deep breath, he then looked at Delmann for a bit before pondering over something.

    Soon after, he then asked Delmann, ¡°Since I don¡¯t know how the town operates, I would need someone else to guide me. With that¡­¡±

    ¡°Would you like to be the vice leader of the town, Delmann?¡±

    Naturally, Delmann hastily epted with a smile on his face as he responded with gratitude, ¡°I would be d to! Many thanks to Sir Argentum for being magnanimous!¡±

    ¡°You deserve such a position since you¡¯ve been managing the town all the while I was gone without even having any experience in it,¡± Argentum said in response with a light chuckle before saying, ¡°In fact, I would like to apologize for throwing you into such a position all of a sudden.¡±

    ¡°There¡¯s no need to be sorry, Sir Argentum,¡± Delmann responded as he waved his hands. ¡°I¡¯m just d you came back for this town of ours.¡±

    Hearing those words, Argentum let out a light smile before telling Delmann that he was just going to another part of the manor to settle some things. After making sure that Delmann wouldn¡¯t be able to find out what he was doing, he then redirected the energy in his body, making sure to keep his facade active, as he formed a connection with a certain someone.

    ¡°Felix, are you there?¡± Argentum said through the connection, prompting Felix to reply with, ¡°What¡¯s with the slightly urgent tone, Argentum?¡±

    ¡°If it¡¯s possible, could you connect Eleanor and Rosalia to this conversation as well?¡± Argentum asked, to which Felix asked, ¡°Is there a reason behind this?¡±

    ¡°Yeah. The town,¡± Argentum sinctly replied, which Felix instantly understood. Without hesitation, Felix utilized the entirety of his energy to make sure that Eleanor and Rosalia were connected to their conversation. Fortunately, it did not take long for the two to respond, with Eleanor saying, ¡°What¡¯s with the sudden request, Felix?¡±

    As for Rosalia, she had noticed Argentum¡¯s presence in the conversation and instantly said with a chuckle, ¡°I see. It¡¯s Argentum¡¯s doing. So, Argentum. Why did you call us?¡±

    At this point, Felix already knew the reason behind his call, so Argentum told them, ¡°I¡¯ll exin as to how I get to this pointter, but currently, I¡¯ve be the leader of a town.¡±

    Not giving them the chance to voice out their reactions, he then continued, ¡°With that being said, I would like to ask if you three¡­want to be main contributors to the development of this town?¡±

    In an instant, Felix and the others went silent. Although the burden of being a contributor to a small town didn¡¯t seem like much, once the town began to grow, the burden would grow as well. Fortunately, these three were owners of inheritances, so they had enough experience in terms of management. With that, their answer to Argentum¡¯s offer was set in stone. In unison, they said in response to Argentum¡¯s offer.

    ¡°We¡¯d be d to.¡±

 Chapter 360: Drafting Up Plans

    Chapter 360: Drafting Up ns

    In response to them agreeing with his proposal, Argentum could not help but lightly smile as he said to them in response, ¡°Well, then. I¡¯m d to have you three on board.¡±

    ¡°Okay. So, all three of us have agreed to your proposal. Could you at least inform us more about what you¡¯re nning to do with this town?¡± Eleanor asked not long after Argentum was finished talking.

    In response, Argentum let out an awkward chuckle as he replied, ¡°Well, here¡¯s the thing. Before I became the leader of this town, I aimed for this town since I wanted to obtain something from it called the Tome of the Four Elements. This item has helped me out inprehending the Lesser Origin, and is currently in my possession.¡±

    ¡°Of course, as benefactors of this town, I wouldn¡¯t mind telling you guys on how to achieve a greater understanding of your elements, mostly Eleanor and Rosalia,¡± he continued.

    After that, he said, ¡°Anyways, I soon found out that the previous leader of this town was quite abusive to its citizens, so I decided to help them out by killing their leader.¡±

    ¡°Just to rify, Argentum contacted me to help,¡± Felix could not help but interrupt Argentum in the midst of his narration. ¡°I was the one who killed their leader.¡±

    ¡°Also, what do you mean by the previous leader of the town being abusive?¡± Felix soon asked Argentum. ¡°You didn¡¯t even give the guy a chance to exin himse¡ª¡±

    ¡°Ehem.¡± Unfortunately, before Felix could finish his words, Argentum interrupted him by imitating the sound of one clearing their throat. He then said, ¡°In any case, the process as to how I became the leader of a town doesn¡¯t matter. All you guys have to know is that I n to make this town my future base of operations.¡±

    Listening to what Argentum was nning to do with the town, the interests of the three were instantly piqued. Not long after Argentum was finished telling the three of what he wanted to do with the town, Rosalia went ahead and asked him, ¡°So, what can we do to help out with the development of the town?¡±

    ¡°Do you guys remember me giving all of you a recipe of a potion that increases one¡¯s perception towards one element?¡± Rather than respond to Rosalia¡¯s question, he instead asked a question of his own, to which the three responded that they remembered.

    After that, he then told them, ¡°In rtion to what I want to do with this town, it has something to do with you guys selling the Heaven¡¯s Element Potions. In other words¡­¡±

    ¡°I would like to get a cut of the profits from it so it could be invested into this town.¡±

    After hearing those wordse out of Argentum¡¯s mouth, the three instantly went silent. Though, this silence did notst long as Rosalia was the first one to respond, saying with a light chuckle, ¡°Well, I did say back in my inheritance that I¡¯ll give you a cut of the profits that you wouldn¡¯t be disappointed with. Though, I wasn¡¯t expecting the cut to go towards a greater cause like this.¡±

    ¡°Speaking of the cut, how much were you nning to give me?¡± Argentum asked in response, to which Rosalia replied, ¡°Thirty percent.¡±

    ¡°Seriously? You¡¯re giving him that much?¡± Eleanor could not help but say in shock as she listened to Rosalia¡¯s response. As for Rosalia, she just shrugged her shoulders as she replied, ¡°Well, he did give us the recipe. If it wasn¡¯t for him, we wouldn¡¯t even be earning money at this level in the first ce.¡±

    Judging from the shock Eleanor felt from Rosalia¡¯s response, Argentum was now quite curious as to how much a thirty percent cut from Rosalia meant. With that in mind, he then focused his senses on Rosalia as he asked her, ¡°Could you tell me how much in gold coins is that thirty percent cut worth?¡±

    ¡°As ofte, I¡¯m selling 100 gold coins worth of the stuff every day, so you¡¯ll be getting 30 gold coins every day¡­which totals to about 900 gold coins a month. If you give me a bit more time, I can probably sell enough to obtain 500 gold coins every day, which totals to 150 gold coins going to you every day,¡± Rosalia said in response, prompting Argentum to lightly nod, though he was inwardly shocked by the amount.

    Although at the veryte game, such an amount wouldn¡¯t be much, to Argentum, who had no need for money and was the leader of what seemed like a low-level town, 150 gold coins per day was more than enough to bring about some drastic changes to it.

    Taking in a few deep breaths toe to terms with the amount of gold he would earn from Rosalia¡¯s end, he then focused his senses on Felix and Eleanor as he asked them, ¡°How about you guys? Are you willing to give me a cut of the profits from your sides? Of course, I¡¯m not asking you to give me a cut that¡¯s as high as Rosalia¡¯s. Even if you just give me a small cut, that¡¯s also fine.¡±

    ¡°Are you underestimating us, Argentum?¡± Eleanor could not help but take Argentum¡¯s words the wrong way as she soon said, ¡°Not to mention getting a cut of the profits from me, I wouldn¡¯t even mind giving you half of the profits from it!¡±

    As for Felix, he took on a calmer approach, though his words weren¡¯t that much different from Eleanor¡¯s. ¡°Just like what Eleanor said, I wouldn¡¯t mind giving half of the profits to invest in the development of the town. You just have to make sure that there¡¯s a ton of things to do in the town while I¡¯m there, okay?¡±

    Naturally, Argentum was in disbelief as to how the two of them were incredibly supportive of what he was doing. Was it because they¡¯ve known him for quite some time already? Was it because they believed that their investments would easily bear fruit when it was handled by him?

    Well, in actuality, the reason why they gave Argentum that big of a cut was because they believed he would do great things in the future. From his character to the power he could currently show at his level, the two of them knew that investing in him would always yield good things.

    Of course, Argentum couldn¡¯t help but feel touched by the goodwill they¡¯ve showed just now. Knowing that such level of trust was hard toe by, he told them, ¡°I¡¯ll make sure to not let your goodwill be wasted, Felix, Eleanor.¡±

    Hearing this, Rosalia hastily told Argentum with a light sigh, ¡°Well, with them eager to help you out in the development of the town, how could I lose out? I¡¯ll also give you half of the profits I get from selling the Heaven¡¯s Earth Potions.¡±

    After that, she added, ¡°Speaking of which, shouldn¡¯t you ask Melzarin if he wants to join in this? I¡¯m pretty sure he has control over the market as well? With both of us selling Heaven¡¯s Earth Potions in different areas, the funds you could tap into would surely be plentiful.¡±

    After giving Rosalia his thanks, Argentum then said, ¡°After this, I¡¯ll let Melzarin know of what I¡¯m nning to do.¡±

    ¡°Anyways, thank you for giving me your support in this n of mine,¡± he then added. After some time, Eleanor asked Argentum, ¡°Now that I think about it, what¡¯s the name of the town?¡±

    ¡°Verdant Breeze Town,¡± Argentum sinctly responded, to which the three of them instantly thought, ¡®That definitely suits him.¡¯

    After that, Argentum went silent for a bit as he pondered on what else he could them. Fortunately, it did not take long for him toe up with an idea as he told them, ¡°Felix, Rosalia, Eleanor. I¡¯m going to have someone join in on our conversation from my side. He¡¯s the proxy leader me and Felix chose when we killed the previous leader of the town. Currently, he¡¯s the vice leader of the town.¡±

    He then continued, ¡°I want to draft up a few ns we could start on. To do that, we need someone like him who knows the ins and outs of this town. Are you guys fine with him joining in on our conversation?¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t mind,¡± Felix responded before adding, ¡°And I¡¯m sure the others won¡¯t mind either.¡±

    ¡°Alright, then.¡± Argentum nodded as he told them, ¡°Just make sure to not tell him your real names. Use your titles instead, okay?¡±

    With that, Rosalia took this time to tease Eleanor as she told her, ¡°Undying me, you better not slip up, okay?¡±

    ¡°Sure, Mother of Earth,¡± Eleanor responded to Rosalia¡¯s words in a mocking tone. Fortunately, before a fight could even start, Felix stopped the two of them, reminding them of what was going on.

    On the other hand, Argentum headed to back where Delmann was as he said, ¡°I¡¯m back.¡±

    In less than an instant, Delmann asked him with a smile, ¡°Were you able to settle all of your things well?¡±

    ¡°Indeed, I have,¡± Argentum responded with a nod and a smile. After that, he told Delmann, ¡°Anyways, I need your help in something.¡±

    ¡°And what might you need help in, Sir Argentum?¡± Delmann instantly asked in response.

    ¡°I¡¯m currently in a call with a few people that are willing to help out in the development of this town. We¡¯re currently drafting up some ns that could speed up the development process, but we don¡¯t know the ins and outs of the town. Would you be able to help me out in this area?¡±

    Delmann hastily took in a deep breath from the sheer amount of shock he felt from Argentum¡¯s words. He had just gone out for a while and now he was asking him if he could out in drafting ns for the town? With that in mind, he could not help but be in awe of Argentum¡¯s abilities.

    With a light nod, Delmann agreed to help Argentum out in that area, which prompted Argentum to extend a strand of energy towards him as he said, ¡°Don¡¯t resist. This will connect you to the benefactors I¡¯m currently talking with.¡±

    As a bit of cold sweat dripped on his back, Delmann slowly nodded. Soon, the strand of energy Argentum extended was soon absorbed by Delmann, allowing him to hear the voices of Felix and others in his mind.

    Making sure that Delmann was properly connected, Argentum then told the three, ¡°Alright, I¡¯ve connected the vice leader with us. Delmann, please say hello to the others.¡±

    ¡°Ah.¡± Delmann froze up for a bit, to which Argentum gave him a hint that he only needed to speak through his mind. With that, he stammeringly greeted the three of them, ¡°H-Hello there. My name is D-Delmann.¡±

    ¡°How cute. Don¡¯t you think so, Undying me?¡± The first one to respond to Delmann¡¯s greeting was Rosalia.

    ¡°He gives off a feeling of determination. I like him. How about you, Grand Blue?¡± Naturally, with Rosalia redirecting the conversation to her, Eleanor had no choice but to respond.

    ¡°I think he¡¯s a good fit for Argentum,¡± Felix said after a bit of silence. At this point, Delmann¡¯s nervousness had gone down a bit, seeing how they talked about him in positives.

    ¡°Alright. With Delmann now here, let¡¯s start with the first n I have in mind,¡± Argentum went ahead and took the lead as he started toy out his ns. ¡°The first n I have in mind is to improve the living conditions of the citizens inside this town.¡±

    ¡°In other words, I want to improve their conditions for food, water, and shelter,¡± he soon added before turning his head to look at Delmann and asking, ¡°Delmann, how much does it cost for an average person in this town to get by on a day-to-day basis?¡±

    ¡°Hmm¡­probably around 2 silver coins or so,¡± Delmann pondered over the question for a bit before responding in a professional manner. ¡°If it¡¯s a family of three, then it rises to around 5 silver coins a day.¡±

    Listening to Delmann¡¯s response, Argentum went silent for a bit before saying, ¡°I see. With the help of these benefactors here, let¡¯s start a project that would allow us to create a source of clean water without having to dig a well. Also, let¡¯s start a project that would allow us to create a few farms that would allow the town to be somewhat self-sufficient in those areas. Would that be possible?¡±

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡± Delmann mulled over the project ideas before asking him, ¡°Are you also taking into consideration the possible jobs we could create through these projects?¡±

    Argentum nodded as he replied, ¡°I¡¯ve taken into consideration the temporary jobs like construction workers, as well as the permanent jobs like those managing the clean water source and those harvesting and nting food.¡±

    Nodding in response, Delmann then went silent for a bit more before giving Argentum their chances of feasibility. ¡°For the clean water source project, depending on howplex it is, it could cost around 10 gold coins to probably around 100 gold coins. Is Sir Argentum nning to transfer this clean water directly to the houses?¡±

    ¡°Yes. How much would that all cost?¡± Argentum nodded as he replied.

    ¡°Then, taking into consideration the forging of the pipes to be used, it would take about 120 gold coins to bring this project to life,¡± Delmann said, thinking that it would take some time until Argentum made a move on this project.

    ¡°How about the farming project?¡± Argentum soon asked while the three still remained silent.

    ¡°Well, to create a farm that contains both nts and animals that¡¯s enough for the town¡¯s poption, we would need to expand the territory of our town by around 30 percent, as well as create new walls to protect them. Fortunately, we¡¯re nowhere near any nearby town or city, so we have no problems expanding outward,¡± Delmann responded, making sure to be as thorough as possible.

    ¡°And¡­how much would that cost?¡± Argentum asked in response, prompting Delmann to go silent once more before giving an estimate.

    ¡°Around 80 gold coins, taking into consideration the farnds and the walls.¡±

    ¡°A total of 200 gold coins, huh,¡± Argentum muttered, making Delmann think that these ns would probably start right now, but progress at a snail¡¯s pace. Though, not long after, this thought was soon dispelled as he heard Argentum¡¯s next words.

    ¡°To be honest, I thought it would take more coins than that. Well, since we have more than enough funds to do so, let¡¯s also add in a house renovation project while tripling the amount of funds allocated to each one.¡±

    ¡°A project like this is still feasible, right, Delmann?¡±

 Chapter 361: Meeting of Two Spiriveritae

    Chapter 361: Meeting of Two Spiriveritae

    While Argentum was still in Verdant Breeze Town talking with Felix and the others regarding the ns to improve the town as a whole, something else was happening near Eleanor¡¯s me Spirit Inheritance.

    Inside it, one would find a corridor where a being that seemed to be made out of green jade could be seen at the very end of it. On its head was an exquisitely crafted crown while its facial features were on the more handsome side of the spectrum. Taking into consideration the massive amount of blood red particles circling around this being, this being was none other than Aurus.

    At this moment, he was continuing to grind out [Purification of Noble Blood], thinking that having this skill maxed out at the start would be beneficial to him in the long run. In fact, after grinding out the skill for quite some time, he had already a bit of the benefits that came along with the skill as his perception regarding the various elements had improved.

    Nevertheless, from the 11,000 points he had a few days ago just after Argentum had achieved the True Element level of understanding of the Wind element, his progress in the skill had only increased to around 35,000 points. Surprisingly, Aurus wasn¡¯t really bothered by that as he noticed that he had already reached the limit of his progression speed for the skill. All he had to do next was just to patiently grind the skill until it had reached the maximum possible level.

    Though, in the midst of him purifying his bloodline, a voice unfamiliar to him resounded in his mind out of nowhere. At first, he could not help but inwardly frown as he wondered which being would dare disturb him while he was giving his all into purifying his bloodline. But, as he listened to the unfamiliar voice¡¯s words, his expression and attitude had taken a 180 degree turn.

    ¡®Verdante,e out.¡¯

    Although the unfamiliar voice just said three words, that was more than enough for Aurus to make a move as he stood up before heading to where Eleanor was. Of course, although she was still in the middle of having a talk with Argentum and the others, Eleanor noticed that Aurus had gone out of his room, prompting her to ask him, ¡°Are you going somewhere?¡±

    In response, Aurus nodded as he replied, ¡°I¡¯m just going outside for a while to test some of my skills. Is that fine?¡±

    Eleanor nodded as she ced his request at the back of his head. She then sent a bit of energy to Aurus¡¯ body as she told him, ¡°I¡¯ve infused you with a bit of my energy so you can use it to enter and leave the inheritance whenever you want. If it were any other time, I wouldn¡¯t have minded manually doing it, but I¡¯m currently busy.¡±

    ¡°No need to apologize, uh¡­Miss Eleanor,¡± Aurus scratched his head as he pondered over how he should respond to her words, taking on a slightly formal tone. After that, he used the energy Eleanor infused into him to leave the me Spirit Inheritance, appearing not long after a few meters away from the charred building that served as the inheritance¡¯s entrance.

    He then looked around to see where that unfamiliar voice came from, only to hear that voice resound in his mind one more time as it said, ¡°Head outside of the Inferno ins.¡±

    ¡°Well, sure,¡± Aurus muttered in response as he shrugged his shoulders before using [Omnipresent Movement] to teleport to a ce that was near the borders of the Inferno ins.

    Whoosh!

    Not long after, he appeared a few meters away from the barrier that housed the atmosphere of the Inferno ins, taking in the sight of the vibrant wilderness as he muttered to himself, ¡°It¡¯s been a while since I¡¯ve been this far out.¡±

    He then let out an awkward chuckle as he thought to himself, ¡®Then again, I¡¯ve only been to Tempest Cliff and the Inferno ins as ofte.¡¯

    While Aurus was in the middle of basking in the beauty of the wilderness, a human that seemed to be made out of gray bark manifested right behind him as it said to him in an indifferent tone, ¡°I guess this is the first time we¡¯re meeting each other, Verdante.¡±

    In an instant, Argentum turned around to face the origin of that sound as he was trying to make sure that he didn¡¯t look like he was shocked on the outside. Of course, who wouldn¡¯t be shocked to find out that someone was behind you all this time without feeling their presence at all.

    Inwardly taking in a deep breath, he looked at the humanoid in front of him as he thought to himself, ¡®This guy looks like me¡­if it wasn¡¯t for the bark that made up its body. Is this a unique trait of the Spiriveritas or something?¡¯

    Unsurprisingly, the reason why Aurus heeded the unfamiliar voice¡¯s words was due to it knowing his codename as a Spiriveritas. Although he heard from Horell and Argentum how he was designated as the thirteenth Spiriveritas back in the Verdant Blossom Branch Alliance, he still wasn¡¯t sure that he was actually part of that organization even if he had obtained skills rted to it. But now that he was called by someone that seemed to be part of that organization, his doubts had now disappeared.

    Recalling what the humanoid said to him, Aurus then responded in a somewhat formal tone, ¡°Indeed. This is the first time we¡¯re meeting each other¡­uh¡­¡±

    ¡°My codename is Erudis,¡± the bark-like man replied.

    ¡°Ah. A pleasure to meet you, Erudis,¡± Aurus hastily fixed his previous greeting as he responded with a smile.

    In response to Aurus¡¯s greeting, Erudis lightly nodded before looking at Aurus from head to toe with a pondering expression. Not long after, he told Aurus, ¡°Your appearance is¡­quite unique.¡±

    Unlike Erudis¡¯s current appearance, whose skin took on a bark-like quality while being ash gray in color, Aurus¡¯s appearance was definitely a far cry from it, having smooth green skin that showed some of the qualities of a polished gem.

    Scratching his head as he listened to Erudis¡¯s words, Aurus could not help but let out an awkward chuckle as he said, ¡°Thanks, I guess?¡±

    ¡°Well, formalities aside, let me re-introduce myself,¡± Erudis said not long after Aurus was done talking, not caring whether or not this statement felt abrupt to thetter.

    ¡°My codename is Erudis, I am the progenitor of the Spiriveritae, as well as the one considered as the first Spiriveritas of Erudinia. I am the wielder of the Epiphany of Omniscience,¡± he continued talking, making Aurus feel slightly surprised as he never thought the first Spiriveritas would be the one meeting him.

    ¡°If you have any questions you would like to ask me regarding the Spiriveritas or any other topic, I¡¯ll answer it to the best of my abilities,¡± Erudis said after that before adding, ¡°If you have time after that, I¡¯ll introduce you to the two Spiriveritae that are situated in the same continent as you.¡±

    ¡°Can we postpone thetter forter?¡± Aurus instantly asked in response before saying, ¡°I don¡¯t really want to meet the others yet in my current state.¡±

    ¡°Is it because you feel inferior in front of them? If so, fret not. The Spiriveritae will definitely not mistreat you just because your strength is subparpared to them,¡± Erudis said not long after, prompting Aurus to shake his head as he replied, ¡°It¡¯s not that. I just feel like¡­I don¡¯t feel like I fit this title of Spiriveritas.¡±

    ¡°In fact, I wasn¡¯t expecting to obtain this title in the first ce,¡± Aurus said not long after as he looked at Erudis. Surprisingly, a light smile was stered on Erudis¡¯s face, whose face had a neutral expression all this time. With a short chuckle, Erudis told him, ¡°You definitely fit the position of a Spiriveritas. Out of all the Spiritii that exist in the world of Erudinia, only you have shown the traits of a Spiriveritas.¡±

    ¡°And what trait would that be?¡± Aurus asked, only to be left at a loss for words with Erudis¡¯s next response.

    ¡°The trait of being able to fight against someone multiple levels higher than you.¡±

    ¡®Is that even considered a trait?¡¯ Aurus could not help but think to himself, recalling that the only reason he was able to unleash such broken levels of power at his current level was all thanks to the system he had obtained from Kurohana.

    Thinking that it was a joke, Aurus let out a chuckle as he asked, ¡°Surely you must be joking, right?¡±

    In response, Erudis shook his head as Aurus went silent. Soon after, Erudis opened his mouth as he said, ¡°I¡¯m not jesting at all. That trait is the most important requirement for one to be a Spiriveritas. Of course, not all Spiritii that could fight against someone at a level of power higher than them are eligible to be a Spiriveritas. Only those who could surmount a massive gap, like you, are eligible for it.¡±

    ¡°Not only that, one would also need to have the ability to proliferate their bloodline, enhancing the strength of Spiritii as a whole,¡± he continued. ¡°Fortunately, your current species has the ability to do that, allowing you to be the thirteenth Spiriveritas.¡±

    ¡°Well, moving on from that. Do you have any question you want me to answer?¡± Erudis then returned to topic to him answering Aurus¡¯s questions once again. In actuality, Aurus had a lot to ask Erudis regarding the Spiriveritas, though he had a feeling that he wouldn¡¯t be able to ask much. With that, he had to make sure that his questions would lead to the most detailed answers.

    Pondering for a bit, Aurus then looked at Erudis as he asked, ¡°Since you¡¯re the progenitor of the Spiriveritae, what are the Spiriveritae? Why were the Spiriveritae made? What¡¯s their current purpose?¡±

    ¡°Three questions at once, huh?¡± Erudis said in response to Aurus¡¯s question before letting out a light chuckle. He then went silent for a bit before responding with a solemn expression, ¡°Let¡¯s start with your first question.¡±

    ¡°As the progenitor, I can tell you without a doubt that the Spiriveritas are considered as a unique variant of the Spiritas. That¡¯s because the Spiriveritas are the only Inanimate species that is capable of achieving a level of power far beyond the Animates and the Transcendents.¡±

    ¡°Did youe up with the name Spiriveritas?¡± Aurus soon asked, to which Erudis responded, ¡°Yes, I did. Spiriveritases from the word Spiritas, which is the original species our variantes from and Veritas, which stands for¡­¡±

    ¡°Truth,¡± Aurus finished Erudis¡¯s words, leaving thetter slightly shocked for a short while. If only he knew that Aurus took Latin ss back in his previous life, he would be in for a shock.

    Clearing his throat to remove the slight awkwardness in the atmosphere, Erudis nodded as he said, ¡°Exactly. Of course, the word Veritas wasn¡¯t chosen for no reason. That¡¯s because the word Veritas rtes to a unique trait only the Spiriveritas have, which is called Epiphany.¡±

    As Erudis mentioned the word ¡®Epiphany¡¯, Aurus could not help but recall the other rted skill he obtained after he was finished with his evolution. Fortunately, Erudis went ahead and exined what it was, telling Aurus, ¡°Epiphany could be considered as our unique understanding of the world. Once we fullyprehend and grasp this unique understanding of ours, we shall achieve enlightenment and enter that unfathomable level of power capable of overpowering Animates and Transcendents.¡±

    Listening to Erudis¡¯s words, Aurus instantly understood what it was, rting it to something he used to have while he was still at the Lesser Divinity level in his previous life.

    ¡°Ah. Laws.¡±

    Seeing that Aurus was satisfied with his answer regarding the first question, Erudis went ahead and continued with the second and third question, deciding to tackle them both at once.

    ¡°As to why the Spiriveritae were made, well¡­consider it as a rebellion against the natural order of progression. For us Inanimates, the normal path would be to ascend to the Pseudo-Animate or the Animate level once one reaches the maximum possible power at X-grade Inanimate. After that, one would enter the Transcendent level, and eventually, the unfathomable level after that,¡± Erudis said, making Aurus think that there was probably another reason as to why the Spiriveritae were made, but he couldn¡¯t put his finger on it just yet.

    ¡°As for our current purpose, we maintain the bnce and order of the Animate civilizations without letting the Animates know,¡± Erudis continued after that. ¡°Of course, those at the highest positions know of our existence, though they fear us due to our power.¡±

    ¡°Does that answer all of your questions?¡± Erudis soon asked after he was finished answering, prompting Aurus to nod in response. But just as he was about to ask Erudis a few more questions, a solemn expression instantly appeared on Erudis¡¯s face as he told Aurus, ¡°My apologies. It seems an urgent matter I have to take care of has appeared just now. Let us hold our question and answer portion for ater time. I¡¯ll also make sure to invite the Spiriveritae when that timees.¡±

    After that, Erudis went ahead and drew a magic circle on the ground that surrounded him, hastily infusing with energy as the space surrounding him started to warp. Just as Erudis was about to disappear from Aurus¡¯s line of sight, he looked at Aurus for a quick second as his eyes widened with slight surprise.

    Before fully disappearing from his sight, Erudis went ahead and told Aurus, ¡°Before I leave, let me tell you what I¡¯ve obtained from reading your fate.¡±

    ¡°It is rmended that you do not go out for now as your future fate is fraught with danger. Heed my words, Verdante. When I dictate something like this, there¡¯s a high chance that it would surely ur in the future.¡±

    Whoosh!

    Not long after, Erudis, as well as the magic circle under him, disappeared in front of Aurus without a trace. Of course, Aurus didn¡¯t care about that, with only Erudis¡¯s final words lingering in his head.

    ¡°My future fate is fraught with danger?¡± Aurus could not help but mutter to himself. ¡°I also obtained a prophecy from Argentum a few days ago. Are those two rted in one way or another?¡±

    Although he could not find the answer to this question right now, he made sure tomit this to memory as he went ahead and teleported back to the me Spirit Inheritance, adamant to increase his progress in [Purification of Noble Blood] to its maximum level.

 Chapter 362: Machinations of Fate

    Chapter 362: Machinations of Fate

    Celestial ne, inside Kurohana¡¯s ne.

    Quite some time has passed since Kurohana had checked on Aurus¡¯s progress in terms of his evolution. At the moment, both Kurohana and her clone, Shirohana, were sitting near one of the corners of her white cube as their understanding over the Greater Law of Reincarnation had vastly improved since thest time she checked up on Aurus.

    Compared to the power they exuded before, the power the two of them were exuding whenbined would definitely scare most Greater Gods at the stronger end of the spectrum, with Nix even probably bing surprised that Kurohana had reached such a level.

    Nevertheless, even though her power had vastly improved whenpared to the time before she started to train her control over the Greater Law of Reincarnation, it was still far from enough from reaching the power an Immortal Verdict Wielder wielded, much less to say her Greater Law of Reincarnation transforming into an Immortal Verdict that had control over something far broader than reincarnation itself.

    After a few more minutes of them not doing any other action, Kurohana soon opened her eyes while Shirohana was still engrossed inprehending the Greater Law of Reincarnation. Then again, it made sense. Shirohana was the clone that contained most of Kurohana¡¯s strength at the moment, so it would be beneficial to her if Shirohana continued toprehend it while she did her own things.

    Of course, the things that Kurohana would do involved none other than Aurus itself. Standing up after sitting cross-legged for quite a long time, Kurohana went ahead and did some light stretches with her body before sitting down on the chair ced in front of the orb that allowed to view what was happening to Aurus.

    After taking a seat on the chair, Kurohana then affixed her gaze onto the orb to see what Aurus was doing, only to be inwardly surprised by the evolution that Aurus had undergone. Naturally, Aurus was already finished with his evolution since on the orb, the sight of Aurus sitting cross-legged while blood red particles surrounded could be seen.

    But to Kurohana, who could see even more than what the naked eye offered, noticed that the things that made up Aurus¡¯s body had changed as a whole. It was as if she could feel a hint of the power only gods exudeding from him.

    Although she didn¡¯t know how Aurus had achieved this evolution as she wasn¡¯t manipting anything other than his fate to be turned into a weapon, she was incredibly ecstatic to find out that the main material of her masterwork weapon was going to be leagues better than before. There was even a chance that her power would instantly shoot up to the Immortal Verdict Wielder level thanks to this change.

    Rubbing her hands in excitement, she then muttered to himself with a light yet scheming chuckle, ¡°It seems that it¡¯s almost time to harvest my rewards. Fortunately, the time taken for him to reach this point wasn¡¯t that longpared to the deadline I gave myself.¡±

    ¡°In any case, I should prepare his retrieval,¡± Kurohana soon added before closing her eyes as she contacted multiple gods within one second. Not long after, she opened her eyes with the gaze of someone who was able to see through everything. Well, the reason for her gaze was because she had obtained permission from the gods who controlledws rted to fate, destiny, and the future itself.

    Of course, since she wanted to manipte fate, then that meant that she contacted the goddess that controlled fate itself, the wielder of the Immortal Verdict of Fate, Phatia.

    Unfortunately for Kurohana, her request to give her permission to control the entirety of fate itself was denied. Though, since Phatia knew what Kurohana was doing, she did not mind giving Kurohana the temporary ability of being able to control a quarter of the fate in the universe. Thankfully, a quarter of the universe¡¯s fate was enough for Kurohana to do what she wanted to do.

    Taking in a deep breath, she then ced her hands over the orb as the strands of energy she would send out back then wouldn¡¯t be enough for the adjustments she was going to make. Channeling all of the energy in her body towards her hands while allowing thews she had gained temporary control over tobine with it, she then started to manipte the fate of the world of Erudinia one by one, with each adjustment she made rted to Aurus.

    ¡°First off, let¡¯s manipte his final strength. Naturally, he would have to reach the peak strength possible in his current form,¡± Kurohana muttered, only to sense through one of thews that it would take Aurus an incredibly long time if she did go ahead with it. Pondering for a bit, she then decided that giving Aurus a month¡¯s worth of time was enough of a strength boost for the masterwork weapon she had in mind.

    ¡°Next, the location,¡± she soon muttered as she expanded the scope of the orb to the entirety of Maerr-viki Continent. Taking into consideration the location Aurus was currently in, she eventually decided that the closest kingdom to Aurus would be the best ce for the event to happen. Nevertheless, she could not help but say, ¡°Although their cksmiths aren¡¯t the best when taking into consideration the entirety of Erudinia, it¡¯s still good enough as a tform.¡±

    ¡°Andstly, the cause,¡± she said soon after as she returned her focus on Aurus. A few secondster, a massive wave of energy emanated from her hands as the aura surrounding Aurus had changed for a short while. Though, not long after, the aura surrounding Aurus had returned to normal.

    Making sure that the aura Aurus emanated was still the same as before, Kurohana then lightly nodded as she said to herself, ¡°Yeah, that would do. Although it would take quite some time for the changes in his personality to take effect, it¡¯ll definitely wouldn¡¯t make others suspicious. On top of that, it also ties into my final change.¡±

    ¡°The event itself,¡± Kurohana let out a light chuckle as she thought about how Aurus¡¯s presence could be tied into the event that was happening in the kingdom she chose. Thankfully, it did not take her that long to create what she considered a spectacr ending.

    After that, she double checked if the adjustments she had made had taken effect, or were the correct ones. After checking it a couple more times, she then lightly nodded in satisfaction as she removed her hands from the orb while thews she had temporarily gained control over headed back to their respective gods.

    She then stood up from her chair before heading back to where Shirohana was, sitting in front of her not long after.

    Before closing her eyes, she could not help but gloss over the changes she had made once more as she let out a light giggle. ¡°Definitely a spectacr ending that would leave the world speechless.¡±

    ¡°In any case, whatever I¡¯ve manipted is now¡­¡±

    ¡°As fate ordains.¡±

    ¡­

    Back at Verdant Breeze Town, Argentum, Delmann, Felix, and the others were still talking with one another regarding the initial ns of development they could do in order to improve the state of the town. Of course, Argentum¡¯sst few words left Delmann at a loss for words, wondering if he had heard wrongly.

    ¡°A-are you certain you want to do that, Sir Argentum?¡± Delmann asked in rification. ¡°Tripling the amount of funds for the clean water source project and the farming project, while adding on a house renovation project would total up to a lot of gold coins, you know?¡±

    ¡°Surely it wouldn¡¯t go over a thousand gold coins, right?¡± Argentum asked with a light smile on his face as he looked at the three and said, ¡°In any case, you don¡¯t have to worry. I¡¯m sure our benefactors right here have more than enough funds to make sure that my orders happen. Isn¡¯t that right, Undying me, Grand Blue, Mother of Earth?¡±

    ¡°Just give me a sign and I¡¯ll transfer the funds straight away,¡± Rosalia, who Argentum called as Mother of Earth, was the first one to reply. Then again, she was the first one to give Argentum a share of the profits she got from selling the Heaven¡¯s Earth Potion, so it was no surprise for her to be the first one to respond.

    ¡°It¡¯ll take a while on my end to amass the funds, but as long as I create that initial channel, there¡¯s no problem in transferring you the funds,¡± Felix was the next one to respond, taking on the moniker of Grand Blue. In fact, even if Argentum hadn¡¯t told him to, he would have still given him a share of the profits just because he had obtained a steady supply of gold coins, as well as a path to improve his understanding over the Water element.

    At this point, only Eleanor was the only one who didn¡¯t reply. Naturally, the focus of the four right now was on her. And so, in usual fashion, she responded in the manner she knew best.

    ¡°W-what those two said.¡±

    Well, better to get an answer than not get one at all.

    Seeing that the three benefactors had great confidence that they would be able to fund the three projects, though thest one was quite unsure, Delmann¡¯s uncertainty gradually disappeared, though a hint of doubt still remained. Nevertheless, he replied with a nod, ¡°I¡¯ll hire some architects and water mages next thing in the morning so the projects could begin as soon as possible.¡±

    Nodding in satisfaction with Delmann¡¯s response, Argentum had a light smile on his face as he then moved onto the next n he had in mind. Thinking about this next n, he looked at Delmann and asked, ¡°Delmann, do you know how many people in this town have attained a level of education?¡±

    In response, Delmann went silent for a bit before showing a bitter smile. He then responded to Argentum¡¯s question, saying, ¡°Unfortunately, Sir Argentum, only us guards have attained a level of education. On top of that, it¡¯s just the basics of the basics, being able to read and write. As for the town¡¯s citizens, I¡¯m sure a few have attained the same level of education here and there, but for the most part, I¡¯m quite certain that the town is filled with illiterate people.¡±

    ¡°Guess I¡¯m modifying this next n quite a bit, then,¡± Argentum said in response before refining the n he had in mind. Nevertheless, from the question Argentum asked, it was quite obvious what Argentum¡¯s n was about.

    A school!

    After making sure that the n was clear in his mind, Argentum then looked at Delmann and the three before saying, ¡°So, for this next n, it will happen after the first three projects are done. Delmann, what I want you to do is to allocate a decently sized piece ofnd while you expand the town¡¯s walls. If you want a specific value, then a lot that could amodate around 50 houses in a square.¡±

    Without giving Delmann the chance to speak or to process the shock he felt from Argentum¡¯s words, Argentum continued, ¡°This vacant piece ofnd would be the birthce of the next n, an academy.¡±

    At that moment, Delmann instantly understood what Argentum was nning to do. Without hesitation, he asked, ¡°Would we be charging admission fees for this academy?¡±

    In response, Argentum went silent for a bit before shaking his head, ¡°At the beginning, we won¡¯t charge any admission fee. But when the number of people that reside in this town increase, then we¡¯ll gradually charge an admission fee. Of course, the original citizens of this town are exempt from this.¡±

    He then added, ¡°There will be two sections for this academy: a section made for kids and teenagers, and a section made for adults.¡±

    After that, he looked at the three and asked, ¡°Is it possible for you guys to find some willing people to teach in the academy? Just make sure that the maximum sry you could give them is 100 gold coins a month. Though, as long as you think that person is worth it, then you can give them a higher sry.¡±

    The three of them then talked with each other through their own means while Delmann was left shocked once more by Argentum¡¯s words. A gold coin was enough to feed a family of three for over half a month, and he told them that the sry an instructor for the academy would get was a hundred times that?

    If he was well-learned, then he would¡¯ve been tempted to be an instructor. Unfortunately, he only had a basic level of education.

    After some time, the three were finished talking, with Felix bing their representative as he said to Argentum, ¡°We¡¯ll try to find people willing to teach in the town. You have to make sure that they have their own amodations, though.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll keep that in mind,¡± Argentum said as he nodded. Since the first three projects hadn¡¯t even started yet, he only told Delmann and the others that he was going to build an academy in the future. Unlike others, he wanted to take things step by step to make sure everything was done well.

    After talking about the academy, Argentum went silent once more as he pondered on what ns he coulde up next. Eventually, he focused on one part the town wascking as he looked at Delmann and asked, ¡°Delmann, is there any unique resource this town has? Or to be more exact, can we obtain a resource that we could use to enhance this town¡¯smercial sector?¡±

    ¡°Hmm¡­let me think about it,¡± Delmann said before lightly frowning as he pondered over the question for quite some time. As time passed, more and more wrinkles would appear on Delmann¡¯s forehead as he put his mind on overdrive. Fortunately, after about ten minutes or so, Delmann had recalled a certain ce near the town which could be used for what Argentum wanted to do.

    With an expression of relief and delight, Delmann then told Argentum, ¡°If my memory serves correctly, there¡¯s arge vein of iron ore near the town. Although we haven¡¯t truly checked how pure this ore vein is, we¡¯re quite certain that it¡¯s definitely on the purer side since the weapons the guards use are made of this iron. Our weapons haven¡¯t cracked even after a year of constant use.¡±

    At that instant, Argentum had an idea that went beyond the ns he had in order to speed up the development of the town. He was now looking at the town from a future perspective. Taking into consideration Delmann¡¯s words from a while ago, he now had an idea as to what direction this town would take. In the future, Verdant Breeze Town would turn into a town of¡­

    cksmiths!

 Chapter 363: Birth of the Tempest Regiment

    Chapter 363: Birth of the Tempest Regiment

    Although he didn¡¯t know if the ore vein Delmann mentioned would be able to sustain his long term n of making Verdant Breeze Town a town focused on cksmithing, it would still enhance themercial sector of the town by quite a lot, even if it was just at the beginning. Who knows? If the town transformed into a renowned cksmithing town in the future, then they might not need to rely on an ore vein at all. They just needed to rely on the forging skills of the cksmiths that lived in the town.

    With that in mind, he decided to make use of this ore vein to the fullest as he told Delmann, ¡°Try and find someone in town to check the total size of the ore vein. As long as you give them a gold coin or two, I¡¯m sure a few people would be willing to do so.¡±

    Delmann nodded in response. At this point, since Argentum had enough confidence that he would be able to make these ns a reality, then he wasn¡¯t surprised if he told him to use gold coins wherever needed. Then again, that didn¡¯t mean he wasn¡¯t curious as to how much funds Argentum had ess to. Of course, he knew that it wasn¡¯t the right time to ask about that, given how the town¡¯s benefactors were in the same conversation as him and Argentum.

    Not long after, he asked, ¡°Should we hire a few people to mine out the vein as well?¡±

    In response, Argentum nodded as he replied, ¡°Only do so once the total size of the ore vein has been measured. Though, if it¡¯s possible, try to also find some people to find more ore veins near the town. At most, the farthest they can be would be around three thousand houses away.¡±

    At first, Argentum was about to say 30 kilometers to Delmann, but then he remembered that he wouldn¡¯t understand what he was talking about unless he had a greater level of education. Fortunately, Delmann understood the message Argentum was getting across, responding with, ¡°How many people should I give that task to?¡±

    ¡°How many able-bodied men does the town have?¡± Argentum asked in response.

    ¡°Hmm¡­around a thousand or so,¡± Delmann quickly replied since he was familiar with all of the people in town due to him being quite friendly with the townspeople. With that figure, it did not take long for Argentum toe to a decision, saying, ¡°I guess around a hundred people or so. They must make sure to not go as far as three thousand houses away, okay? If they don¡¯t find one, reward them with three gold coins. If they do, reward them with ten. Of course, only reward thetter if you¡¯ve seen the ore vein with your eyes.¡±

    ¡°Understood, Sir Argentum,¡± Delmann responded not long after,mitting Argentum¡¯s words to memory.

    ¡°Well, I guess that settles all of the initial development ns I have in mind for Verdant Breeze Town,¡± Argentum said after a while, only for one of the three to start speaking not long after.

    ¡°Argentum, I think you¡¯re still forgetting one more thing,¡± Felix said to Argentum, who pondered over the statement for a bit, though could not find out what Felix was trying to say. So, in response, he asked Felix, ¡°What do you mean by that, Grand Blue?¡±

    ¡°With such massive initial development ns, haven¡¯t you considered that the nearby towns wouldn¡¯t be envious of Verdant Breeze¡¯s advancements? Sure, they might be far away, so there¡¯s a chance they won¡¯t take action. But what if they do?¡± Felix exined his thought process, which Argentum fortunately understood within a few seconds.

    ¡°What you¡¯re saying is¡­I should enhance the defensive properties of this town,¡± Argentum replied, to which Eleanor continued as she said, ¡°And offensive. Knowing you, you wouldn¡¯t be satisfied with Verdant Breeze Town staying as a town.¡±

    Although Delmann was surprised to hear thate out of one of the benefactors¡¯ mouths, he could not help but be inwardly surprised as he did have dreams of expanding Verdant Breeze Town even further while he was acting as a proxy leader for Argentum. Naturally, he dispelled those thoughts since he didn¡¯t have the power or the funds necessary to do so. But now that Argentum was leading the helm of the town, there might be a possibility for this idea toe true.

    After all, which person didn¡¯t want to make a name for themselves?

    Oblivious as to what was going on inside Delmann¡¯s mind, Argentum let out a light chuckle in response to Eleanor¡¯s words before saying, ¡°Well, since you¡¯ve talked about it, I guess this project would begin in tandem with the first three projects. This project wouldn¡¯t really affect the first three projects in any way, plus some of its elements tie in with the farming andnd expansion project, so it should be done at the same time.¡±

    Looking at Delmann, he then asked, ¡°How many active guards does the town currently have?¡±

    ¡°About 20 guards, Sir Argentum,¡± Delmann hastily responded as he was a guard himself in the past.

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡± Hearing that, Argentum pondered over it for a bit, thinking of a perfect number to expand to for now. After a minute of contemtion, he then said, ¡°I want you to raise that number to 300 guards.¡±

    He continued, ¡°After that, I want you to select three guards to be responsible formanding groups of 100 guards. Within those 100-guard groups, have them select 10 guards that would be responsible formanding 10-guard groups. Also, among the first three guards, have them choose between the three of them on who would be the captain among them. That captain would be the one who would ry information to me regarding actions involving the guards.¡±

    ¡°Er¡­understood.¡± It took some time for Delmann to respond as Argentum¡¯s order this time around involved a lot of steps. Then again, he wrote this order down as it was harder topletepared to the other ones he had mentioned so far. After making sure that his note was correct, he then asked, ¡°Would that be all, Sir Argentum?¡±

    ¡°I have some more things to say,¡± Argentum replied as he went silent for a bit before asking, ¡°If I remember correctly, Verdant Breeze Town has a lot of Wind energy particles in the surroundings, right?¡±

    ¡°Yes, that is correct. Although this town is located slightly far away from the Greater Tempest Cliff, it¡¯s still more inclined towards the Wind element,¡± Delmann replied, only to be silent as he had an idea as to why Argentum asked him that. Wanting to make sure if his idea was correct, he soon asked, ¡°Do you want all of these guards to train in Tempering skills rted to the Wind element?¡±

    ¡°Exactly,¡± Argentum said with a smile. ¡°All guards must at least achieve a Rank 1 ss with a Tempering skill like that, while the three heads need to be at least Rank 2.¡±

    He then shifted his attention towards the three and asked them, ¡°Is it possible to obtain a Wind-rted Tempering skill and Ascension skill? It doesn¡¯t have to be really good, just slightly better than most.¡±

    In response, all three nodded as Rosalia was the one to respond for them, saying, ¡°Yeah, we can. It wouldn¡¯t take that long of a time for us to find one or two. So, expect it toe in a few days or so.¡±

    ¡°Understood,¡± Argentum said before deciding that it was now time to finish talking about the initial development ns of the town. Letting out a cough to attract the attention of the four, he then said, ¡°With that, all of the initial development ns I have in mind have been said. And with that, this meeting is now adjourned.¡±

    After that, he sent a private message to Felix and the others, making sure Delmann wouldn¡¯t listen in as he said, ¡°I hope you three can send the gold coins tomorrow.¡±

    ¡°We¡¯ll try to make sure, Argentum,¡± Felix said in response as the other two nodded. Not long after, the three disconnected themselves from the connection, leaving only Argentum and Delmann in it. Naturally, with the two of them near each other, there was no need for such a connection, so Argentum cut it not long after.

    With only the two of them remaining, Delmann was now free to voice his doubts towards Argentum as he asked, ¡°Is it really possible for us to do all of those things you said, Sir Argentum? Even if I wrap my head around it multiple times, I still don¡¯t think it¡¯s quite feasible, given how we don¡¯t have much funds at the moment.¡±

    In response, Argentum lightly chuckled as he replied, ¡°Rx, Delmann. If I say it¡¯s possible, then it¡¯s definitely possible. In any case, we should definitely announce the changing of leaders tomorrow, lest we want the citizens to revolt.¡±

    ¡°Do you want me to tell the guards to spread the news?¡± Delmann asked, to which Argentum nodded as he said, ¡°Please do.¡±

    Nodding in response, Delmann then left Argentum alone in the manor as he headed to the guards at the gates, telling them to spread word of an announcement happening tomorrow.

    After a few minutes or so, Delmann went back to where Argentum was, noticing that a mass of gray energy was circling around him. He then lightly coughed to attract Argentum¡¯s attention, which worked as that gray mass disappeared.

    Knowing very well that Delmann letting out a cough had to mean something, Argentum then asked, ¡°Is there a problem, Delmann?¡±

    ¡°Not really, Sir Argentum. I¡¯ve just noticed while you were talking about the initial ns that you¡¯ve ced in quite a lot of detail into the expansion of the guards,¡± Delmann responded as he shook his head. ¡°I was just curious if you¡¯re nning to do something else with them.¡±

    Hearing that, Argentum lightly smiled as he replied, ¡°Well, I do have a use for them. As Undying me has said before, I¡¯m not content with Verdant Breeze Town staying as a town. In the future, we¡¯ll surely expand this town¡¯s territory to transform into a city. After that, we¡¯ll conquer other cities to form a state. And after that, we¡¯ll conquer states to form a kingdom. Don¡¯t you think that¡¯s a good idea?¡±

    Seeing how big Argentum¡¯s ambition was, Delmann could not help but get sucked into it as well. Though, he did see the dark side of such a n, telling Argentum, ¡°Achieving it would cost a lot of lives, though.¡±

    ¡°And that¡¯s why I¡¯m putting a lot of focus into the expansion of the guards,¡± Argentum said, only to correct himself soon after, ¡°Or better yet, I¡¯m putting a lot of focus into the creation of this town¡¯s military.¡±

    At this point, Delmann had a feeling that Argentum¡¯s words had a chance of bing true. Nevertheless, the idea of turning the guards into the town¡¯s military force had nevere across his mind. Naturally, as a man, his blood started to boil from the excitement of the town having a military in the future. With that in mind, he asked what he considered was the most important thing for a military force, ¡°Do you have a name in mind for this future military, Sir Argentum?¡±

    ¡°Now that I think about it, I haven¡¯t thought of that yet,¡± Argentum soon replied before going silent as he pondered over the question. Not long after, he started to think out loud as he muttered, ¡°Since we¡¯re in Verdant Breeze Town, a ce where Wind energy particles are plentiful, it would make sense that the name of the military would be rted to wind.¡±

    ¡°Hmm¡­since the military I¡¯m aiming to create would be as swift as a coursing river and as fierce as a great typhoon¡­I think the word ¡®Tempest¡¯ would fit.¡±

    After muttering for quite a while, he looked at Delmann and asked, ¡°What do you think of the name ¡®Tempest Regiment¡¯?¡±

    In an instant, a wide grin could be seen on Delmann¡¯s face as he became even more excited. Of course, he calmed himself down not long after as he replied, ¡°That¡¯s a wonderful name, Sir Argentum.¡±

    ¡°I know, right?¡± Argentum said with a light chuckle. After that, he said, ¡°Well, from this day forth¡­¡±

    ¡°The Tempest Regiment is now the official military of Verdant Breeze Town.¡±

 Chapter 364: Establishing Ones Status

    Chapter 364: Establishing One¡¯s Status

    After the two of them talked about a few more things regarding what they would do tomorrow while announcing the changing of the town¡¯s leader, Delmann and Argentum went their separate ways, heading towards two rooms inside the manor. Since Argentum told Delmann that he would be leaving the town from time to time to do his own things, he told Delmann that he didn¡¯t really need a room for himself.

    Nevertheless, Delmann insisted that he had a room, quite adamantly at that. In the end, Argentum gave in to Delmann¡¯s persuasions and upied a room at the top floor of the manor. After closing the door to his room, he then let out a sigh before deactivating [False Visage of the Animate], returning his figure to that of a gray humanoid.

    Soon after, he took a look out of therge window inside his room, allowing him to get a good view of a great portion of Verdant Breeze Town at night time. Although it was dark for the most part, the illumination brought by the moon was enough for him to feel that the town was quite peaceful at night time. Though, while looking at the streets, he could not help but think that starting a streetlight project wouldn¡¯t be a bad thing.

    After that, he decided to sit cross-legged on the only bed in the room as he pondered on what he could do to pass the time before he and Delmann had to announce the changing of leaders. In the end, he decided that increasing his strength would probably be the best for him to pass his time. Of course, he could not use his offensive skills since he knew that it would definitely destroy this room, or perhaps even the manor, with his current stats.

    With that, he focused his attention towards his passive skills. Though, after a while, he thought that there was no point in enhancing his passive skills, given how they were at a pretty high level even though he hadn¡¯t grinded them after a long time. Or at the very least, he hadn¡¯t found a reason to grind them to a higher level yet.

    As for the passive skills he had that were reced due to him reaching the True Element level of understanding towards a certain element, their base effects were still more than powerful enough for him to not do anything, thus prompting him to think that he would just enhance them once he was close to evolving.

    ¡°Now that I think about it, I can actually evolve at any time,¡± Argentum muttered to himself, recalling that he had invested a great portion of his unused experience points towards raising his level up to the maximum. Nevertheless, he thought it was a bad idea to evolve at this moment, especially with the fact that his skills haven¡¯t reached their limits yet. On top of that, he could still obtain more skills to grind if he went out, it¡¯s just that he thought that developing Verdant Breeze Town was of greater priority.

    ¡°Well, that just leaves me with the things I¡¯ve only obtained recently.¡± With those thoughts, he eventually focused his attention towards the skills he had obtained that focused on the element of Lesser Origin.

    Ever since he had left the Origin Pantheon, or better yet, ever since he had obtained [Lesser Origin Affinity], he hadn¡¯t touched any of the skills rted to Lesser Origin at all, may it be passive or active. Although he did have multiple chances of doing so before he went to Verdant Breeze Town, the thought of using them didn¡¯t pass through his mind at all. And now that he was thinking about it, he could not help but wonder sometimes if he was thinking correctly.

    Nevertheless, he knew that he would eventually use them, so he didn¡¯t really regret the decisions he had made so far. Though, with only a few minutes having passed by after he had entered his room, he was quite bored out of his mind right now, wanting to upy himself while waiting for his time to show himself to the world.

    And with that, he looked at the two passive skills he had that were rted to Lesser Origin: [Lesser Origin Affinity] and [Lesser Origin Core]. [Lesser Origin Affinity] was the same as any other elemental affinity skill he had in his skill list. As long as he increased its level in it, he would have better control over the element of Lesser Origin.

    As for [Lesser Origin Core], now that he thought about it, it epassed not just Lesser Origin. Although he had obtained the skill from the Origin Pantheon, which needed someone toprehend the element of Lesser Origin at the very least, he had a feeling that enhancing this skill would not just increase his control and proficiency over the element of Lesser Origin, but over the four foundational elements as well. As to whether this increase in proficiency tranted to damage or anything else, it was still better than only experiencing an improvement in one area.

    And so, Argentum closed his sense of vision as he focused on the silver orb that resided in his body that was radiating a simr energy to the one making up his body. Of course, if one examined closely, there was a slight qualitative change between the energy radiated the core and the energy making up his body. Ignoring that, Argentum went ahead and tried to increase the level of [Lesser Origin Core].

    Within the first few minutes, Argentum felt like nothing was happening. Then again, he did not know what Lesser Origin felt like, unlike the four foundational elements he had been familiar with all this time. Fortunately, this stalemate did notst long since after an hour had passed, a change started to ur within him¡­as well as his surroundings.

    Whoosh!

    Although it was unknown as to what caused it, multiple motes of iridescent light started to condense around Argentum before entering his body, causing him to feel pleasure wash over his body with every mote of light he absorbed. At times, he would even feel like he could enter a higher ne of existence, which was only something he felt while creating his Lesser Origin Core back at the Origin Pantheon.

    And so, time passed as the level of his [Lesser Origin Core] increased. Surprisingly, as his [Lesser Origin Core] improved in level, his [Lesser Origin Affinity] would improve as well, leveling up at the same rate as the former. Though he was quite surprised to see this happening, it wasn¡¯t like he didn¡¯t understand what was happening. He was controlling the element of Lesser Origin to nourish his Lesser Origin Core, which meant that his understanding and control of Lesser Origin would naturally improve with time.

    Eventually, the sun was now up at the sky, prompting Argentum to stop grinding both skills as he let out a sigh of wonder and awe. Thanks to the All-epassing Comprehension Leaf that Aurus had ingested in the past, the speed at which his [Lesser Origin Core] and [Lesser Origin Affinity] had improved was definitely fast, though for some reason, it was around a fifth of the speed as him improving any other skill. Nevertheless, both skills had reached the maximum level they could achieve at the B-grade Mortal level, which surprisingly gave Argentum an additional ability.

    By allowing the element of Lesser Origin to circte throughout his body, the Lesser Origin he was circting would resonate with the world, allowing his senses to expand beyond the limits of what his enhanced senses could reach, basically allowing him to sense everything around him within a certain radius. For some reason, he could not help but think of Aurus¡¯s [Soul Perception] skill as they had the same function.

    Nevertheless, Argentum knew that the two were still different, with one reliant on the power of one¡¯s soul, while the other was reliant on Lesser Origin. With that, Argentum decided to call this new ability of his ¡®Origin Sense¡¯, given how it was powered by Lesser Origin.

    Not long after, a knock on the door to his room could be heard, instantly prompting Argentum to activate [False Visage of the Animate] as he returned to his previous appearance. After that, he opened the door to his room, seeing Delmann look at him with a smile.

    ¡°It¡¯s time for us to show ourselves to the world, Sir Argentum,¡± Delmann said half-jokingly. In response, Argentum replied with a chuckle, ¡°You could say that this is our first step to establishing ourselves as a future kingdom.¡±

    After that, they headed out of the manor before heading towards the center, both of them nodding to the town¡¯s guards they met every once in a while.

    ¡­

    Arriving at the town center, they noticed that a great portion of the townspeople were already surrounding the makeshift stage the guards had constructed for the two to stand on. Naturally, the townspeople were quite curious as to what was going on, given how the guards had only told them vague things. Eventually, the answer to their questions had arrived as Delmann and Argentum walked up the makeshift stage, facing the townspeople who were chattering just a while ago.

    Unsurprisingly, once they noticed that their town leader had walked up the stage with another person, they knew that something important was about to be announced. After all, they still did not forget the fact that their current town leader was chosen after the previous town leader was killed. Then again, none of them did not grieve for the death of the previous town leader as that leader did not care about them in the first ce.

    As for Delmann, their current town leader, he was someone from this town, so he knew very well that interacting with the townspeople was of utmost importance. That was also the reason why everyone had gone silent the very instant Delmann and Argentum had appeared on top of the makeshift stage.

    Clearing his throat to attract everyone¡¯s attention, Delmann then stepped forward as he said, ¡°Good morning, everyone. I¡¯m sure you¡¯ve all heard from the guards that I have something important to announce to all of you.¡±

    ¡°Well, this announcement has something to do with the person beside me,¡± he continued before recalling the incident from back then. ¡°Does everyone still remember the time when Irren was killed? Although I¡¯m sure all of you know of this, I¡¯m sure that no one knows that the one who did it was someone not from this town.¡±

    With those words, the townspeople could not help but look at Argentum with a hint of curiosity. As for those that were more intelligent, they connected the two dots as they looked at Argentum with a hint of awe and reverence. After all, their previous town leader was so strong that no one could contest them. With that, he ruled the town in a corrupt manner, though he made sure that it did not look like that on the outside.

    Seeing as their interest was piqued, Delmann then lightly smiled as he continued, ¡°If your thoughts are the same as mine, then yes. This person beside me is one of those people that helped remove Irren¡¯s corrupt hands over this town. Would you please introduce yourself, benefactor?¡±

    In response, Argentum stepped forward and nodded as an amicable smile soon appeared on his face. He then went silent for a bit to make sure everyone¡¯s attention was on him before saying, ¡°My name is Argentum. Myst name is something that¡¯s useless to know since I want everyone to call me by my first name.¡±

    He then let out a light chuckle as he continued, trying to make the conversation more casual, ¡°As said by Delmann, I was one of those people who helped stop Irren ruling over your town. I¡¯ve heard from Delmann that Irren had ruled over this town back then with only him in mind, not caring about you guys at all.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s why I¡¯m here today to change all of that,¡± he said before looking at Delmann. Knowing what Argentum was trying to imply, Delmann continued where Argentum left off and said, ¡°From this day onward, I shall step down from the position of town leader. Sir Argentum right here shall be Verdant Breeze Town¡¯s leader, while I shall be his right hand, the vice leader of the town.¡±

    Surprisingly, rather than hearing loud cheers from the townspeople after that announcement, an eerie silence instead covered the surroundings as all of them looked at Delmann and Argentum with slight confusion. As for the two, although they weren¡¯t expecting such eerie silence toe after their announcement, it wasn¡¯t as if it was a surprise to them, given how they were ruled by such a corrupt leader before Delmann.

    Eventually, one of the townspeople stepped forward and looked at Argentum with a hint of doubt still on his face. Taking in a deep breath as he mustered his courage, he then asked Argentum, ¡°How can we be so sure that you wouldn¡¯t treat us the same way like Irren?¡±

    In response, Argentum lightly smiled as he let out a yful chuckle.

    ¡°Well, the answer to that is very simple.¡±

    ¡°I won¡¯t.¡±

 Chapter 365: Mass Recruitment

    Chapter 365: Mass Recruitment

    Unsurprisingly, Argentum¡¯s response to that person¡¯s question left almost everyone in the audience confused. Even Delmann wasn¡¯t spared from this confusion, though it did not take long for him to understand what Argentum was trying to imply. Of course, that wasn¡¯t the case for the remaining majority, prompting Argentum to let out a light sigh as he thought to himself, ¡®We definitely need an academy built in this town.¡¯

    Thinking that he wouldn¡¯t y mind games with the townspeople anymore until they at least had a decent level of education, he then answered the person¡¯s question in a way that most people would understand. Naturally, he would build up to that answer, going silent for a bit as he asked the person a question.

    ¡°Well, I¡¯m sure a great portion of you didn¡¯t understand what I meant by that. So, here¡¯s a question instead. Before Delmann became the leader of Verdant Breeze Town, when Irren became the leader of this town, what did he do?¡±

    In less than an instant, a great majority of the people could not help but frown as they remembered thews Irren had passed throughout his rule. Of course, all of thews he passed did not reach the level of physical abuse to its citizens, but it did affect the livelihood of a great portion of them as it restricted them on one thing they needed the most.

    Money.

    ¡°To answer Sir Argentum¡¯s query, Irren had passed aw in the past that all of the citizens of Verdant Breeze Town would have to pay him a silver coin every week in order for them to continue living in this town.¡± Surprisingly, Delmann was the one to answer Argentum¡¯s question, knowing very well how this silver coin affected the livelihood of a lot of people he was good friends with. He then continued, ¡°Although a silver coin may not be much in the grand scheme of things, to us in Verdant Breeze Town, a silver coin is more than enough for us tost for half a week.¡±

    ¡°Did he pass any otherws like that?¡± Argentum could not help but ask, a light frown on his face as he could not help but think how greedy Irren was. Sure, he might have killed the guy in retaliation for wanting to kill him and Blob in the past, but now that he was learning more and more about the guy, he could not help but think that Irren deserved to be killed.

    ¡°Other than the weekly payment, we would also have to pay a monthly fee and a yearly fee to live in this town,¡± one of the townspeople answered Argentum this time. This person looked more schrlypared to the other people surrounding him, which Argentum took note of.

    ¡°If I remember correctly, he called it something along the lines of residential tax as this payment would be used to stimte the development of the town,¡± the person continued, though his expression could not help but turn into that of anger as he said soon after, ¡°But during the time I¡¯ve lived here under his rule, I have not seen any positive change to this town at all! The only change I could see was misery and despair amongst its people!¡±

    Seeing how he had gotten angry all of a sudden with everyone looking at him, the person let out a light cough as he hastily tried topose himself. Nevertheless, his next words were stillced with a hint of anger as he looked at Argentum and said, ¡°That¡¯s why, if you¡¯re going to be our leader and rule us like Irren did. Let me be the first one to say that we¡¯ll revolt without hesitation.¡±

    After hearing the person¡¯s words, Argentum went silent for a bit as he pondered over his next course of action. Judging from the words the person said, he could definitely say that this was a man who loved this town very much, just like Delmann. With that in mind, a n soon formed as he looked at the man with a smile and asked, ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll keep that in mind. But let me ask one thing first. What¡¯s your name?¡±

    The schrly person did not expect Argentum to ask for his name all of a sudden, making him freeze up a bit in the process. Nevertheless, the person maintained hisposure as he replied, ¡°It would be Valstra, uh¡­Sir Argentum.¡±

    ¡°Valstra, huh. What a nice name,¡± Argentum said with a chuckle not long after before his expression instantly turned solemn as he asked Valstra soon after, ¡°Say, Valstra. From the care you show for the town¡¯s citizens, as well as the knowledge you¡¯ve showed about the town, how about you be my secretary? I do need someone to take care of the town¡¯s logistics after all.¡±

    Valstra, who was not expecting such an offer toe up, was left at a loss for words for a bit, though the people around him instantly spurred him to ept the offer. Unsurprisingly, with Valstra¡¯s words from a while, the people encouraged him to take up the offer so that they would have control over their leader that might possibly be the seconding of Irren. And so, with a mix of peer pressure and his own contemtion, Valstra then looked at Argentum and answered with a tone of gratitude, ¡°Many thanks to Sir Argentum for making me the town¡¯s secretary, then.¡±

    Argentum smiled in response as he said, ¡°For now, your task is to record all of the words I¡¯ll be saying from now on. Make sure to write down every word, okay?¡±

    Although he was unsure why Argentum would say that, Valstra nodded as he responded, ¡°I¡¯ll try my best to take a note of everything.¡±

    Nodding in response to Valstra¡¯s words, Argentum then took in a deep breath as he decided to first clear up everyone¡¯s thoughts of him being the seconding of Irren. With that in mind, he said, ¡°Alright. First of all, I would like to tell everyone that I wouldn¡¯t be passing any harshws like Irren. Instead, I¡¯ll be passingws that would help out its citizens.¡±

    With a chuckle, he then said, ¡°Since I¡¯m now officially the leader, even if you guys say otherwise, let me pass my firstw.¡±

    Hearing that, the townspeople instantly had frowns on their faces, wanting to oust Argentum out of his position. Though, as Argentum continued to talk, the frowns they had were hastily reced with¡­shock?

    ¡°Hmm¡­let¡¯s call thisw the Livelihood Incentivization Law,¡± Argentum said. ¡°Thisw states that, starting from tomorrow, everyone would be able to receive 10 silver coins from the town every week until one year has passed. Thisw shall apply to every individual, with children also being counted under thisw.¡±

    ¡°Of course, since I don¡¯t want anyone to use this money for anything other than the betterment of your lives, I¡¯ll have to create a system that would make sure the money wouldn¡¯t be wasted on trifling pleasures,¡± he continued, noticing that the townspeople were left at a loss for words.

    Naturally, Argentum knew what was going on through their minds at the moment, which was immense shock from the words they were hearing. They never had such a generous leader lead their town before, so it was natural that the townspeople would be speechless once he started to list out his ns.

    Then again, to Argentum, this was the best moment to continue talking about his ns to make sure it would have a longsting impact on them. Lightly coughing to attract their attention, he then continued, ¡°Other than the Livelihood Incentivization Law, I¡¯ll also be pushing forward three development projects that would help kickstart the expansion of this town. Not only that, but I¡¯m certain that it would also provide jobs to a great portion of the people here.¡±

    ¡°The first project would be the Farnd Expansion Project. From the name itself, this project would expand the current farnds of this town, allowing us to be more self-sufficient towards food. If the food we produce is far beyond what the town needs, then we can export it to other towns, turning it into a possible stream of profit for the town.¡±

    ¡°The next project is the Clean Water Project. Just as the name suggests, this project would give everyone ess to clean water by using a system of waterways and channels that would allow the clean water to appear right in the houses of its people. This also means that mages that excel in Water magic would be highly needed for this job, so if you¡¯re one, please inform me after this.¡±

    ¡°As for the third project, its name is the Town Renovation Project. From the name itself, this project would involve renovating the houses of this town to be better suited for living. The walls protecting the town would also be expanded and reinforced to better protect its citizens. On top of that, I would have a magee and cast a protection barrier over the town, increasing the town¡¯s protection even further.¡±

    ¡°Also, I¡¯ll probably have streetlights installed while also paving the roads, but that would just be a small project after these first three,¡± he added, ending his exnation over the three projects. After Argentum was finished talking about the projects he would start, the townspeople were now looking at him with a mix of shock, disbelief, but most importantly¡­excitement.

    At this very moment, all of them were thinking that, if this person right there stuck to his words, then they wouldn¡¯t mind having him be their leader forever.

    Of course, Delmann could not help but have an expression of worry on his face as he noticed that Argentum added a few elements here and there that seemed unimportant on the outside, but was actually incredibly expensive to fulfill. With that, he could not help but whisper into Argentum¡¯s ear and ask, ¡°Will the benefactors be able to afford the costs?¡±

    ¡°Oh, don¡¯t worry. They will,¡± Argentum whispered back in response with a soft chuckle. After that, he looked at the townspeople once more, noticing that their impression of him had improved as they held onto that small hope of him making his wordse true. Naturally, since this was his future base of operations, he was definitely going to make all of his nse to fruition.

    Nevertheless, he saved the project that he considered the most important forst as he let out a light cough yet again, attracting the attention of the people as they became silent. Seeing as how the people were now more believing of his words, he then looked at the able-bodied men in the audience as he said with a chuckle, ¡°I also have one more project I want to start, but this project is only towards the men in this town. So, you guys, listen up!¡±

    Taking in a deep breath, he then started to borate on the project he saved forst, the creation of the town¡¯s Tempest Regiment.

    ¡°As we all know, to protect a town, not only do we need walls, but we also need people to oversee it and have the ability to fight if an intruder enters. That¡¯s why we have the town guards patrolling throughout our town,¡± Argentum started to exin.

    ¡°But here¡¯s the thing. For the dream I have, the guards we have aren¡¯t enough,¡± he continued, only to notice hateful gazesing from them. Seeing that, he corrected himself, saying, ¡°Of course, I¡¯m not saying that the town guards we currently have are bad, but let me ask all of you guys one question.¡±

    ¡°Would the current town guards be enough for us to expand our territory into a city?¡±

    Naturally, that left the town guards, as well as the men at a loss for words. Of course, Argentum did not stop there, continuing with his questions as he said, ¡°How about the territory of multiple cities? How about the territory of a kingdom? How about¡­far beyond that?¡±

    ¡°To achieve the dream I have of turning Verdant Breeze Town into a kingdom in the future, I would need to expand the number of the town guards. Of course, from now on, they wouldn¡¯t be called town guards anymore. Instead, they would now be members of what I call¡­the Tempest Regiment!¡±

    Hearing the phrase ¡®Tempest Regiment¡¯e out of Argentum¡¯s mouth, all of the able-bodied men in the audience, as well as the town¡¯s guards maintaining peace from afar, hastily came closer to Argentum, pushing other people out of the way as they felt their blood boil with excitement.

    Of course, Argentum was more or less expecting such a reaction as he knew that every man wanted to make a name for themselves. Naturally, being part of the Tempest Regiment was the quickest way for them to do so. After hearing them throw questions at him every second, Argentum decided to silence everyone as he pointed towards one man and asked with a light smile, ¡°You. What question do you have?¡±

    Seeing that he was the one picked, the person instantly took in a deep breath to calm himself down before asking, ¡°Uh¡­Sir Argentum, when will you start recruiting?¡±

    ¡°Well, I¡¯m d you asked,¡± Argentum said not long after with a chuckle as he turned around to walk for a bit. Soon after, he turned around as he pondered for a few seconds in silence.

    After that, he answered the man¡¯s question as he said, ¡°Hmm¡­how about¡­¡±

    ¡°Right now?¡±

 Chapter 366: An Interesting Old Man

    Chapter 366: An Interesting Old Man

    ¡°Right now?¡± Naturally, such a response had been out of expectations for the men as they expected him to tell them that the recruitment would start tomorrow or some other day. In any case, the fact that Argentum told them that the recruitment would begin at the day of the announcement kindled a fire of motivation and drive inside many of the men that lived in this town.

    As for the women and the others that were disinterested in this part of his announcements, Argentum naturally did not make them wait any longer near the makeshift stage as he shouted at them, ¡°As for the others who have no intentions of joining the Tempest Regiment or those who have nothing else that needs my attention, you can all head back and do your own things. My announcements are now over.¡±

    With that, the others nodded in response to his words, waiting to see what would happen to the town under his rule. Of course, Argentum did not let them leave just like that, letting out a chuckle as he left them with parting words.

    ¡°Remember that my words shall take effect starting tomorrow!¡±

    Hearing that, the townspeople that were leaving the area suddenly hastened their paces, as if they were possessed by something or someone. In any case, Argentum knew that his words had given the effect he wanted to give to the townspeople, prompting him to lightly smile as he then focused his attention back on the men that were still crowding around the makeshift stage he and Delmann stood on.

    As for Delmann, he could not help but think of Argentum¡¯s parting words to the townspeople that had already left. With that in mind, he asked him in a whisper, ¡°Can we really start all of those projects tomorrow, Sir Argentum?¡±

    In response, Argentum replied in the same whispering manner, ¡°We¡¯ll only have the Livelihood Incentivization Law take effect tomorrow. As for the three projects, would you be able to recruit the required people within a week?¡±

    Delmann went silent from the order given to him, pondering over the chances of him seeding. After a while, he said, ¡°If I work with the new secretary, there¡¯s a high chance that I might be able to do so in a week. If not, I can guarantee that we would be able to recruit the required people within two.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s more than enough for now,¡± Argentum lightly smiled as he responded with a nod. ¡°You¡¯re dismissed for now. Remember to manage everything needed for the Livelihood Incentivization Law and the three projects. Also, try and have a few people find and examine the nearby veins.¡±

    ¡°Understood, Sir Argentum,¡± Delmann said as he turned around, only to stop in his steps as his expression was that of conflict. Noticing this, Argentum asked him, ¡°Is something the matter?¡±

    Hearing that, Delmann awkwardly chuckled as he scratched his cheeks, facing Argentum once more. ¡°Although I wouldn¡¯t mind doing what you¡¯ve tasked of me right now, my curiosity over the formation of the Tempest Regiment is stopping me from doing so.¡±

    With his head slightly lowered, he then asked with a hint of embarrassment, ¡°I don¡¯t know if Sir Argentum is fine with me staying here?¡±

    Argentum let out a peal of loudughter in response to Delmann¡¯s request, prompting the other men to look at Argentum with a hint of confusion. Though, not long after, they understood what was happening as he looked at Delmann and said with a grin, ¡°Why would I stop you? Feel free to stay.¡±

    After that, he looked at the secretary he had just recruited standing amongst the remaining townspeople and beckoned him toe up on stage. ¡°Valstra,e up here. I need you to list down the people I¡¯ll be epting to be members of the Tempest Regiment.¡±

    He then looked at the townspeople and kindly asked, ¡°Can anyone spare our friend Valstra a piece of pen and paper? He needs it.¡±

    Surprisingly, a great portion of the men hastily headed into their respective houses to grab a pen and a bunch of paper. By the time they came back, arge amount of pen and paper was avable for Valstra to use, leaving him slightly surprised at the eagerness of the men to be recruited into the Tempest Regiment.

    Seeing that Valstra had more than enough paper to list down the 300 or so members that would form the Tempest Regiment, he then looked at the men and town guards surrounding the makeshift stage and said with a nod, ¡°Alright. With everything ready, it¡¯s time for the entrance test.¡±

    In an instant, all of the men were pumped up to take the test, only for them to be slightly curious as to what the test was not long after. With that in mind, one of the men decided to pluck up their courage and ask, ¡°Sir Argentum, may I ask what the entrance test might be?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m d you asked,¡± Argentum replied with a light chuckle before leaping to a nearby open space. Of course, that move made the men reassess Argentum once more, not thinking that he was only good at governing the town anymore. With a rxed stance, he then looked at the men near the makeshift stage and announced, ¡°The entrance test is incredibly simple. The participant has to defend against one of my attacks. It doesn¡¯t matter how you do it. If you dodge it, you¡¯ll pass. If you block it, you¡¯ll pass. If you retaliate against it, you¡¯ll also pass.¡±

    ¡°To those that pass the entrance test, not only will you be a member of the Tempest Regiment, you¡¯ll also be entitled to a sry of 5 gold coins per month!¡±

    Unsurprisingly, after hearing that they would obtain a monthly ie far beyond what they needed for their day to day needs, the men madly dashed to where Argentum was. Of course, Argentum made sure that those willing to go through the entrance test would queue up in a line as he told Delmann and Valstra to keep note of those that pass his test.

    The first person to go through his entrance test was a slightly burly man at his 30s. Seeing as how Argentum¡¯s body did not have any muscles and the fact that he did not feel any sense of strength emanating from Argentum, the man could not help but think that it would be easy to pass through his entrance test.

    Of course, Argentum noticed the gaze of slight arrogance appearing on the first man¡¯s face, prompting him to inwardly smile as he crafted a True Wind spell using [Sage¡¯s Wind Magic], aiming to increase his attack speed. After that, he silently cast the buff on himself, to which only a few people along the queue noticed.

    At that instant, those people knew that the first man was in for a beating if he dared to underestimate Argentum. Unfortunately, that man was oblivious to what Argentum had done, though he still maintained a respectful expression as he said to Argentum, ¡°Thaurid Felmore, 32 years old. I would like to take the entrance test!¡±

    ¡°Very well. Prepare yourself,¡± Argentum warned with a calm tone, though a light smile was affixed to his face. In response to Argentum¡¯s warning, Thaurid only took on a rxed horse stance, barely taut enough to give him a sense of stability.

    Seeing this, Argentum looked at the others and said, ¡°From now on, if one wishes to take the entrance test, I would like to ask others to move out of the way. We might not know if we might see some¡­idents.¡±

    ¡®idents? As if that¡¯s ever going to happen,¡¯ Thaurid thought to himself, confident that he would be able to defend against one of Argentum¡¯s blows.

    ¡°Here I go,¡± Argentum told Thaurid, prompting thetter to tighten his legs to give himself more stability¡­only to be sent flying forward as the former sent a quick yet strong punch towards his stomach.

    Thud.

    As Thauridnded on his back, almost everyone in the queue could not help but reassess Argentum yet again, wondering how strong he was if he went all out. From what he had shown just now, they had a feeling that it wouldn¡¯t be difficult for him to defeat Irren at his current state, even thinking it was just a walk in the park.

    With that in mind, a small portion of those in the queue hastily made up excuses to leave the queue and do their own things. As for those that remained, either they believed they had the ability to defend against Argentum¡¯s attack, or they were more motivated to join the Tempest Regiment in order to be as strong as Argentum.

    And just like that, the entrance test to be one of the Tempest Regiment members had begun. A great portion of people at the beginning were sent flying a couple meters away by Argentum, though as time passed, he adjusted his strength to where it would only temporarily debilitate them and not send them flying. Surprisingly, a few people started to avoid his attack, being enlisted to the Tempest Regiment with wide smiles on their faces. Nevertheless, after defending against Argentum¡¯s attack, they all simultaneously thought the very instant they passed.

    ¡®Never mess with the town leader!¡¯

    With how straightforward the entrance test was, the number of people decreased quite quickly, with about half of the people at the beginning having already taken the test within a couple of hours. At this moment, a man that seemed out of ce along the queue in front of Argentum.

    Unlike the other men that had taken the test before, the enthusiasm and vitality felt from him was far from what Argentum felt from the others. Instead, the man gave off the feeling that he was just doing it because it seemed interesting. Not to mention that the fact the man looked like he was already beyond his prime.

    Of course, Argentum did not tell the man to move out of the way as he found it quite interesting for an old man to enter his entrance test. With that, he said, ¡°Please introduce yourself.¡±

    ¡°ude Vorendell,¡± the old man replied before scratching his head as he continued, ¡°I think I¡¯m 62 years old? I¡¯m not sure. It¡¯s been a while since I celebrated my birthday.¡±

    ¡°In any case, I¡¯m here to join the Tempest Regiment.¡±

    ¡°Alright, then,¡± Argentum said as he nodded, preparing an attack that was slightly weaker than the ones he had sent out before. Surprisingly, the old man noticed this and told him, ¡°You don¡¯t need to hold back. It wouldn¡¯t sit well with me if you did.¡±

    ¡°In fact, I also want to apologize for what happened back then,¡± the old man continued, prompting Argentum to ask with a hint of confusion, ¡°Back then?¡±

    ¡°The first time you came to this town. I was the one who led the guards to where you were, so I feel like I am partly to me,¡± ude replied, to which Argentum became silent for a bit.

    In the end, he decided that there was no point bing angry at the old man as it had already been some time since then. Not only that, but he knew that the old man was just doing it for the sake of the town. Nevertheless, with the old man telling him that he was the one who led the guards to where they were, he could not help but think that the old man might have some special talents.

    ¡®Well, I¡¯ll find that outter,¡¯ Argentum thought as he said to ude, ¡°Prepare yourself.¡±

    In response, ude nodded as he slightly bent his back, saying back to Argentum, ¡°Don¡¯t hold back.¡±

    Whoosh!

    Without hesitation, Argentum punched towards the old man, aiming for his stomach. Unfortunately for Argentum, the old man wouldn¡¯t give him the chance to do so, taking a step back to just barely miss the attack.

    Just as Argentum was about to retract his fist and tell the old man that he had passed, the old man decided to use Argentum¡¯s extended arm as an opening as he weaved through and lightly grasped Argentum over the neck not long after.

    With the help of his enhanced senses, as well as his Origin Sense, Argentum saw how the old man took advantage of the opening to retaliate back at him, leaving him at a slight loss for words.

    As the old man released his grasp over Argentum¡¯s neck, the old man let out an awkward chuckle as he apologized, ¡°My apologies. I must have gone slightly overboard.¡±

    In response, Argentum said back with a chuckle, ¡°You didn¡¯t. In fact, I¡¯m quite surprised to see that you¡¯re still limber at your age.¡±

    ¡°In any case, your prowess doesn¡¯t fit the level of a Tempest Regiment member anymore,¡± he continued, leaving those at the queue at a loss for words. If what ude did wasn¡¯t fit for a Tempest Regiment member, then what would their moves be worth?

    Though, it did not take long for them to realize that their fears were unfounded as Argentum looked at ude with a light smile and asked, ¡°With that, I would like you to be an instructor of the Tempest Regiment. How about it? Would you like to give it a try?¡±

    Hearing the offer given to him, ude instantly replied, ¡°Do I get a bigger sry?¡±

    ¡°But of course. It has to be worth your while,¡± Argentum said with augh.

    With that, ude extended his hand, to which Argentum received as the two shook his hands.

    ¡°Well then. I don¡¯t see any harm in giving it a try,¡± ude grinned as he epted Argentum¡¯s proposal.

 Chapter 367: Going Separate Ways

    Chapter 367: Going Separate Ways

    Maerr-viki Continent, Seraph Kingdom, at Vanadir¡¯s pavilion.

    ¡°How about it, Ninth Brother? Would you like to form an alliance with me?¡± Zeldrion looked at Vanadir with a smile as he redirected the offer that was given to him. Of course, hearing how his offer was redirected back at him could not help but make Vanadir slightly frown, pondering over the possible reasons as to why Zeldrion would do something like this.

    ¡°Is the reason why you¡¯ve given me the same offer rted to that reason you can¡¯t speak of yet?¡± Vanadir asked, to which Zeldrion lightly nodded, a calm smile still stered on his face.

    ¡°Well, there¡¯s that. There¡¯s also the fact that if we team up together, with both of our brains and brawns, it wouldn¡¯t be impossible for us to take the crown at the war for the throne,¡± the First Prince replied, trying to persuade his younger brother to ept the offer.

    Noticing that he still wasn¡¯t biting, Zeldrion continued to talk. ¡°I promise that if I win the war for the throne, I shall give you a level of authority near what I wouldmand once I be the new king of Seraph Kingdom. Not only that, but I¡¯ll even give you ownership over a great portion of the states making up the kingdom, given how you¡¯re going to be the first one to be a member of alliance.¡±

    ¡°So, how about it, brother? Would you like to join my alliance?¡± Zeldrion asked once more, thinking that it was highly likely for Vanadir to ept his offer after the promises he had made. Though, beyond his expectations, the Ninth Prince slowly shook his head as a slightly apologetic expression appeared on his face.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, First Brother. I cannot ept your offer,¡± Vanadir said as he looked at Zeldrion straight in the eye. In response, Zeldrion let out a light chuckle as he shrugged his shoulders, saying soon after, ¡°Well, it was worth a shot. Although I felt that the chances of you epting my offer was quite high, I¡¯m still somewhat surprised that you declined it.¡±

    ¡°Tell me, brother. Is there a reason as to why you¡¯ve declined my offer? Why you¡¯ve decided to ask me join to your alliance instead?¡± Zeldrion continued as he asked Vanadir these questions. Though, throughout all these questions, Vanadir just remained silent, staring at Zeldrion, as if he was letting his eyes do all the talking.

    Of course, just like all the other princes of Seraph Kingdom making moves in preparation for the war for the throne, Vanadir also had his own reasons as to why he joined in the war. Although the position of king was a tempting position for most people, to Vanadir, it was just a tool for his ns that covered not just Seraph Kingdom itself, but perhaps even the whole continent of Maerr-viki.

    If he had not seen that certain piece of paper with his own two eyes, then he might have just abstained from the war as a whole, possibly even dying under the machinations of Arshe, just like some of his other brothers.

    In any case, he had no intentions of telling Zeldrion the reason why he wanted him to join his alliance since he knew very well that the less people that knew of the matter, the better.

    Seeing that Vanadir wasn¡¯t going to talk about it just like him, Zeldrion decided to crack a little joke as he instead asked him, ¡°So, I guess your pride is the reason?¡±

    ¡°Well, you could say that,¡± Vanadir responded as he lightly chuckled, making the mood in the atmosphere somewhat lighter than before. Soon, he added, ¡°And there¡¯s also the fact that I would be more assured of victory if I¡¯m the one calling shots.¡±

    ¡°We feel the same way, then,¡± Zeldrion said in response to Vanadir¡¯s statement, letting out a peal ofughter. ¡°Other than the reason I can¡¯t talk about for now, I also feel more assured of victory if I¡¯m the one calling shots.¡±

    ¡°Well, you know what they say,¡± the Ninth Prince said soon after. ¡°Birds of the same feather¡­¡±

    ¡°¡­flock together,¡± Zeldrion continued where his younger brother left off, making the two of themugh for a while as they felt that they actually had a lot more things inmon. Though, soon after, the two of them instantly went silent as they stared at each other with solemn expressions.

    Although it might seem like the two were holding a staring contest in the eyes of a bystander, in actuality, they were feeling out the limits of both sides, wondering how they could help each other out without having to force one side to join their alliance. After all, there was still strength in numbers.

    Eventually, after a couple minutes of silence, Vanadir extended his hand towards Zeldrion as he suggested, ¡°How about we form a mutual agreement instead?¡±

    ¡°The uses?¡± Zeldrion hastily asked, thinking that a mutual agreement wasn¡¯t far off from the idea he was about to suggest to Vanadir.

    ¡°First off, we should help each other out as much as possible in the preparation for the war for the throne. Of course, that help is only limited to information and resources. Combat techniques and other simr things are not included,¡± Vanadir started to exin how their mutual agreement would work, making Zeldrion lightly nod in agreement as he said, ¡°Sounds good to me. Anything else?¡±

    ¡°Second, we need to establish a direct method ofmunication between us two in the case that there¡¯s urgent information the other side must know,¡± the Ninth Prince continued before asking, ¡°I¡¯m sure you have a person on your end that¡¯s well-versed in that regard, right?¡±

    ¡°Yep.¡± Zeldrion nodded.

    ¡°Lastly, once the war for the throne starts, we should help each other until we¡¯re the only two teams remaining. Once that happens, the mutual agreement is said to be over,¡± Vanadir said, allowing Zeldrion to process the information for some time. After a minute or so had passed, he then asked him, ¡°Do you have any problems with the uses?¡±

    ¡°Hmm¡­although I do have a few problems, it¡¯s just mostly on the level of nitpicking. For the most part, I have no problems at all,¡± Zeldrion said in response to Vanadir¡¯s query. ¡°In short, let¡¯s form the mutual agreement.¡±

    Nodding in agreement to Zeldrion¡¯s words, Vanadir then beckoned Dane, who was by his side all this time, to cast a spell that would more or less turn their words into a strong binding contract. Taking out a piece of parchment from a rift he had briefly opened, Dane then inscribed a small yet dense magic circle on it before infusing it with a great amount of mana.

    Swoosh!

    Not long after, the same magic circle on the parchment appeared under the feet of the two princes, prompting Dane to say to them, ¡°Please dictate all of the binding uses of your mutual agreement.¡±

    With a nod, Vanadir then voiced out all of the uses he had mentioned to Zeldrion before. After he was finished, Zeldrion then made a few minor changes to the uses, to which Vanadir did not find a problem with since the effects of the uses stayed more or less the same.

    After double checking that the uses were the ones they had mentioned, Vanadir then nodded to Dane, allowing thetter to continue with the process as he tore the parchment with the magic circle right down the middle, infusing more mana into it in the process.

    Then, he started to mutter the incantation that would form the binding contract.

    ¡°Let the heavens be the overseer of this binding contract, and let this mage be their representative.¡±

    ¡°Under the name of the heavens, I, Dane Grossezauber, shall now announce that the contract between the First Prince of Seraph Kingdom, Zeldrion Seraph II, and Ninth Prince of Seraph Kingdom, Vanadir Seraph, has been formed and will not be dissolved until the right conditions are met.¡±

    ¡°4th Circle. [Century Seal]!¡±

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    After Dane was finished muttering the incantations for the contract, the two halves of the torn parchment then turned into multiple strands of energy, giving the two princes a feeling that they were being looked at by the heavens. Soon after, these energy strands entered the bodies of the two princes, instantly making them feel like their insides were being locked up with chains.

    Eventually, the process was over as the magic circles under their feet gradually disappeared, as if nothing had happened at Vanadir¡¯s pavilion at all.

    By this time, the two of them looked at each other with more amicable expressions, knowing very well that they were now bound by the contract. Of course, with the contract, they now had the confidence to share a bit of the information that prompted them to join the war for the throne, but they knew very well that it was better for them to take their time in that regard.

    Seeing that he had been somewhat sessful in his trip to the Ninth Prince¡¯s pavilion, the First Prince let out a light chuckle as he said, ¡°Well, I guess this is better than us bing enemies. There¡¯s still Arshe we still have to worry about.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s true,¡± Vanadir responded as a light smile was stered on his face. ¡°In any case, there¡¯s not much else to talk about between the two of us, so you can take your leave.¡±

    ¡°Ah, right. Remember to tell the person on your end to talk with Dane to create thatmunication line between the two of us,¡± Vanadir added soon after, to which Zeldrion nodded in agreement before turning around.

    Just as he was about to bid farewell to Vanadir and Dane, he stopped in his tracks for a bit, a pondering expression on his face. After a while, he looked back at the two, specifically at Vanadir. He then told him, ¡°Before I leave, let me warn you that you should stay away from Arshe as much as possible. Although it might look like he¡¯s just a scheming bastard, there¡¯s actually more to him than we think.¡±

    ¡°Hmm? Why would you say that?¡± Vanadir asked in response, slightly surprised that his older brother would say something like that out of the blue. Though, as Zeldrion responded to his question, it seemed like Arshe had more secrets than he initially thought.

    ¡°Well, let¡¯s just say that he¡¯s slightly rted to the reason I can¡¯t tell you yet,¡± Zeldrion said before adding, ¡°Even though we¡¯re now bound by the contract, I still feel like it¡¯s not the right time to involve you into this reason I have.¡±

    ¡°Just like how you don¡¯t want to involve me in the reason you have,¡± he continued, to which Vanadir shrugged his shoulders as he replied, ¡°You¡¯re still saying more things than me when ites to the reason why we¡¯ve joined the war for the throne. With that, I can¡¯t help but feel a bit guilty that I¡¯m not telling you my reasons.¡±

    ¡°Unfortunately, just like yours, it¡¯s also not the right time to tell you what¡¯s on my mind yet. At the very least, it would have to wait until the war for the throne is near,¡± he continued, prompting Zeldrion to let out a light chuckle as he waved his hands, saying, ¡°That¡¯s fine. I wasn¡¯t nning on reveal everything about my reasons until the war for the throne is near as well.¡±

    ¡°In any case, I should really take my leave.¡± With those parting words, Zeldrion finally bade farewell to the two, leaving both Vanadir and Dane off to their own devices.

    After asking Dane if Zeldrion was still near the pavilion, the two of them then sat down on the sofas at the guest room as Vanadir let out a light sigh. After that, he decided to make him and Dane a cup of tea to ease their minds for the night.

    Giving Dane his cup of tea, Vanadir then sipped on his own cup before asking the former, ¡°Do you think it was the right decision to not tell him about it yet?¡±

    As his advisor, Dane also knew the reason why Vanadir joined in the war for the throne. cing his cup of tea on a nearby table, he responded, ¡°You made the right decision, Vanadir. If anything, the only other person that should know of this other than you and me would be the king himself. Of course, I¡¯m certain that the emperor already knows of what we know.¡±

    ¡°Well, you might be right there. As a king of the Seraph Kingdom, I¡¯m sure he already knows of it,¡± Vanadir said in response for drinking all of the contents in his cup in one gulp before letting out a long sigh.

    After that, he stared at the ceiling for a bit before muttering, ¡°A continental war, huh¡­¡±

    ¡°I just hope I can make a change on the continent before that happens.¡±

 Chapter 368: Finding Another Benefactor

    Chapter 368: Finding Another Benefactor

    Maerr-viki Continent, Verdant Breeze Town.

    ¡°Valstra, how many people have passed my entrance test?¡± With a rxed expression still on his face, Argentum looked at one of the two men on the makeshift stage and asked with a light smile.

    In response, Valstra hastily looked through the various pieces of parchment he had written names on before closing his eyes to do a bit of mental calction. After that, he looked at Argentum with a calm yet confident expression as he responded, ¡°If my calctions are not wrong, out of a total of 1,352 people that participated in the entrance test, only 356 people had passed it, Sir Argentum.¡±

    356 people, huh. Well, that¡¯s surprisingly better than I expected,¡± Argentum responded as he looked at the sky, noticing that it was already afternoon. At the moment, quite a lot of men were scattered across the area, either lying or sitting down on the ground as they caught their breaths, gasping for air from the great amounts of stamina they had use to defend against just one attack from Argentum.

    As for Argentum, he wasn¡¯t affected at all. He wasn¡¯t drenched in sweat, nor did he look like he had a hard time while sending out a punch to over one thousand people in a row. If anything, that just made the men reassess Argentum yet one more time, making them wonder as to how long he wouldst in a fight. Hours maybe? Days? Maybe even over a week if he moved sparingly.

    Seeing as to how Argentum seemed to be unaffected from doing a single punch monotonously for over a thousand times, ude, the new instructor of the Tempest Regiment, looked at him with interest and asked, ¡°Say, Sir Argentum. Are you really not tired at all?¡±

    ¡°Not even one bit. Why do you ask?¡± Argentum replied, an expression of slight confusion on his face. In response, ude¡¯s eyes slightly widened from the confidence in Argentum¡¯s voice, before lightly smiling as he waved his hands, saying, ¡°Oh, nothing, nothing. Just take it as an old man¡¯s nature to worry over someone.¡±

    ¡°Huh¡­¡± Since ude did not bother exining what was going on in his mind, then Argentum did not pursue the matter any further. After giving the men that had passed his entrance test sufficient rest, he then told them to stand in front of him in a grid-like formation, to which the men hastily followed, not wanting to lose their positions as Tempest Regiment members just as they were admitted.

    Of course, Argentum did not mind them dying for a bit as it was their first time to take part in something like this. ude, on the other hand, could not help but click his tongue as he looked at how the men got into formation. ¡°Very sloppy.¡±

    ¡°I believe Sir ude would able to teach them how they should properly act,¡± Argentum said in response to ude¡¯s remark with a smile before looking at the men that took on formation in front of him. He made sure to remember each and every face making up the initial formation of the Tempest Regiment, as well as the extra members that had passed the entrance test.

    After making sure that he had more or less memorized their faces, he then looked at the 50 or so extra members at the far back of the formation and told them, ¡°To the 50 at the back, separate from the main formation and head to the front.¡±

    Although they were fearful as to what Argentum might do to them, they still had to follow his words, lest he changed his mind and decided to not make them members of the Tempest Regiment. Of course, to these 50, they noticed that their numbers were already above 300, but they were still epted by Argentum to be members of the Tempest Regiment. With that in mind, all of them simultaneously could not help but think if he had other ns for them.

    Fortunately, their thoughts were correct as he looked at them and said, ¡°As I think it is a waste for you guys to not be used wisely, you 50 shall now form a special division of the Tempest Regiment I shall be calling the Tempest Scouts. You guys shall be the ones in charge of reconnaissance and espionage, as well as other rted tasks that fall under your scope. Understood?¡±

    With gazes filled with gratitude and determination, the members that made up the newly formed Tempest Scouts responded with a tone of confidence and gratitude, ¡°Yes, Sir Argentum!¡±

    Nodding in response to their words, Argentum lightly smiled before facing the 300 that made up the ranks of the Tempest Regiment. Taking a deep breath, he then told them, ¡°As for you guys, as I¡¯ve said before, you guys shall make up the Tempest Regiment. You shall divide yourselves ordingly into groups of 100, making up three groups respectively.¡±

    ¡°After that, I want you to elect a person that would lead your group. That person would be one of the three captains of the Tempest Regiment,¡± he continued before looking at the Tempest Scouts and saying, ¡°The Tempest Scouts should also elect a leader as well. These four captains shall be my eyes and ears over the military.¡±

    He then looked at ude, who was now giving off a slightly stern aura, and said, ¡°All of you shall learn the basics once again under our instructor, ude. Make sure to give him the respect he deserves. Am I clear?¡±

    In unison, the men replied, ¡°Yes, Sir Argentum!¡±

    ¡°Great! You¡¯re all dismissed. All of you shall regroup here tomorrow at this same ce just when sun is about to rise,¡± Argentum nodded as he reminded them before allowing them to disperse.

    As the men headed back to their homes, happy to tell their families that they would be living better lives from now on, Argentum told Delmann, Valstra, and ude toe closer to him as he told them, ¡°I¡¯ll be leaving Verdant Breeze Town to you guys for a few days.¡±

    ¡°Eh? What about the money required for the Livelihood Incentivization Law, Sir Argentum?¡± Delmann hastily asked while still being in shock from Argentum¡¯s announcement. In response, Argentum eased his worries as he told him with a light chuckle, ¡°Rx, Delmann. I¡¯ll ask the benefactors to have someone send the money to you.¡±

    He then looked at Valstra and said, ¡°Work together with Delmann to create a policy that would make sure that the money from the Livelihood Incentivization Law doesn¡¯t go towards vices. I can leave it up to you, right?¡±

    ¡°Rest assured, Sir Argentum. I¡¯ll do my best for the greater prosperity of this town,¡± Valstra assured Argentum¡¯s worries, prompting Argentum to nod before looking at ude.

    ¡°I may not be able to look over the progress of the Tempest Regiment, so I shall be relying on you to turn them into a ferocious force that would make foes tremble,¡± Argentum said before adding, ¡°Also, I¡¯ll have someone send you a Tempering and Ascension technique that only the members of the Tempest Regiment should train. Of course, if you want to train the technique as well, that¡¯s fine by me.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll do my best, Sir Argentum¡­though you¡¯d have to increase my sry if you want me to work harder,¡± ude said, making Argentum lightly chuckle as he said, ¡°Would a 10% increase be enough?¡±

    ¡°Of course, of course. That¡¯s more than enough,¡± ude responded with a beaming smile, prompting both Delmann and Valstra to simultaneously think, ¡®What a money-grubber.¡¯

    After telling them a few more things, Argentum then bade farewell to the three of them as he soon left Verdant Breeze Town. After getting considerably far from the town itself, he then deactivated [False Visage of the Animate], returning his appearance back to his true form as he activated every movement speed boosting spell he had in his arsenal.

    After that, he started to make his way to the me Spirit Inheritance while simultaneously contacting Eleanor through their connection.

    ¡°Oh, Argentum. What¡¯s up?¡± Eleanor said at the very moment the connection was established, allowing Argentum to tell her, ¡°Call Felix and Rosalia. I need to see the three of you face-to-face.¡±

    ¡°Does it have something to do with the town you became a leader of?¡± Eleanor asked, to which Argentum replied, ¡°Yeah. There¡¯s still a ton of things we have to clear up from our conversationst night. Tell them that I¡¯ll be at the inheritance before sunset.¡±

    ¡°Uh-huh. Got it.¡±

    ¡­

    By the time Argentum had arrived in front of the me Spirit Inheritance, it was more or less at the time he told Eleanor, prompting thetter to instantly teleport him inside the inheritance once she was able to sense her presence. Not long after, Argentum appeared in the center of the room where Eleanor usually was, with Felix and Rosalia doing their own things.

    Though, as they noticed that Argentum was finally here, they focused all of their attention towards Argentum as Felix asked him, ¡°So, you asked us toe here because of the town?¡±

    ¡°Indeed.¡± Argentum nodded as he said, ¡°From our conversationst night, I still felt a hint of uncertainty from your voices regarding the shares over the profits from the Heaven¡¯s Element potions. Are you going to keep your word or are you going to lower the shares?¡±

    Surprisingly, Rosalia was the first one to respond to his question, saying, ¡°Although I would like to reduce the share back to 30%, I wouldn¡¯t be that shameful to do such a thing, since you did give me the recipe to the potion. My share of 50-50 still stands.¡±

    Nodding in response to Rosalia¡¯s words as he radiated an aura of gratitude, he then looked at Felix and Eleanor, to which the two of them shrugged their shoulders as Felix told him, ¡°Well, what do you think we¡¯ll say?¡±

    ¡°Then, I¡¯ll have to thank the three of you. I¡¯ll make sure to repay this kindness in the future,¡± Argentum said before changing the topic to another one. ¡°Speaking of money, is it possible for you three to send the money to the town through other people instead?¡±

    ¡°Wouldn¡¯t it be faster to just send the money ourselves?¡± Eleanor asked, to which Argentum replied, ¡°Yes, it would be faster, but we would risk having you three being discovered by others. Although I¡¯m not sure if you three have enemies or not, I don¡¯t want their anger to befall the town.¡±

    After listening to Argentum¡¯s reasons, the three of them thought that it did make sense. Of course, as benefactors of the town, they also did not want to inflict any harm on it that came from their side. With that, the three of them eventually agreed to do it Argentum¡¯s way, though to reduce the time taken for the money to be sent, they would transport the money just a few kilometers away from the town before having someone else send it to the town. Unsurprisingly, Argentum was fine with that arrangement.

    ¡°Is there anything else you want to say to us, Argentum? By the looks of it, I feel like you still have something in there,¡± Felix soon asked, noticing how Argentum had gone silent for no reason.

    Feeling a hint of embarrassment and guilt, he then told them, ¡°I feel somewhat guilty for having to request this from you three since you all have inheritances to take care of, but I would need someone tomunicate with the officials of the town I¡¯ve elected regarding the projects I¡¯ve done.¡±

    ¡°Oh? Are you heading somewhere perhaps?¡± Rosalia was the one to ask, thinking that it would be better for her to be the onemunicating with them since she was a human like them. In response, Argentum nodded as he exined, ¡°Since Felix is concocting the Heaven¡¯s Water Potion, Eleanor the Heaven¡¯s Fire Potion, and you the Heaven¡¯s Earth Potion, I need to find someone that¡¯s willing to concoct the Heaven¡¯s Wind Potion and be the fourth benefactor of the town.¡±

    ¡°I see¡­¡± Rosalia said in response before bing silent for a bit as a person soon appeared in her mind. As if she just had a eureka moment, she then suggested to Argentum, ¡°If you need someone to concoct the Heaven¡¯s Wind Potion, then I guess there¡¯s no other person more suited to it than Helios.¡±

    Hearing that namee out of Rosalia¡¯s mouth, both Felix and Eleanor could not help but have unsightly expressions as Eleanor asked Rosalia, ¡°You sure you wanna rmend Helios to him? You do know he gets a little¡­aggressive, right?¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s only if you ignore him,¡± Rosalia replied. ¡°If youpliment him, he¡¯ll treat you like you¡¯re his greatest friend in the world.¡±

    ¡°Er¡­who is this Helios guy you three are talking about?¡± Argentum soon asked, his curiosity piqued by their conversation.

    ¡°Helios is just like us, the owner of an inheritance,¡± Felix started to exin. ¡°Namely, he¡¯s the owner of the Heaven¡¯s Gust Inheritance, taking on the moniker of ¡®Tempest King¡¯.¡±

    ¡°From the name of the inheritance itself, I feel like he¡¯s a good fit for the Heaven¡¯s Wind Potion,¡± Argentum could not help but say, to which Felix nodded as he said, ¡°That¡¯s true, but¡­¡±

    ¡°Are you really sure you want to choose him?¡±

    ¡°Is there anything wrong with choosing him?¡±

    ¡°Well, it¡¯s not that it¡¯s wrong to choose him, but it¡¯s just that¡­he has some¡­let¡¯s just say¡­narcissistic tendencies.¡±

 Chapter 369: A Narcissist Beyond Narcissists

    Chapter 369: A Narcissist Beyond Narcissists

    ¡°By narcissistic tendencies, what do you mean by that exactly?¡± Argentum could not help but ask Felix, wanting to rify how seriously narcissistic Helios was. If it was at a level that he could tolerate, then Argentum would still be able to adjust. But if he couldn¡¯t, then he would just choose another person that excelled in the Wind element to work with.

    ¡°Er¡­how do I put this¡­¡± Felix scratched his head as he pondered as to how he would convey the level of narcissism Helios had to Argentum. After about a minute or so, he eventually found a ce to start from, deciding to ask Argentum, ¡°Well, you do know what a narcissist is, right?¡±

    ¡°Of course, it¡¯s a being that loves themselves to the point that they would put themselves above others. It¡¯s simr to selfishness, but it¡¯s not at the same time,¡± Argentum responded before asking, ¡°Why do you ask?¡±

    ¡°Well, what do you think narcissists do?¡± Felix asked, making Argentum go silent for a bit as he tried to imagine himself as a narcissist. Soon after, he answered, ¡°I guess they would always think they¡¯re great while they want all the attention towards them. They think of themselves as extremely important people and¡­that¡¯s all I got.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re more or less correct, Argentum,¡± Felix responded before saying, ¡°That¡¯s what most narcissists do. But in Helios¡¯s case, take those actions¡­and turn them up to 11.¡±

    ¡°That bad?¡± Argentum said with a slight frown on his face. At this moment, he could not help but think of finding other people to work with to concoct the Heaven¡¯s Wind Potion. Though, as he continued to listen to Felix¡¯s words, the thought of finding other people to work with intensified, instantly concluding that there was no way he would be able to work with Helios regarding the Heaven¡¯s Wind Potion.

    ¡°What you imagine might not even be 1% of what he¡¯s actually like,¡± Felix said as he slightly shuddered. Taking in a deep breath, he then told Argentum, ¡°He would ignore you unless you call him something along the lines of ¡®Oh, the Great and Venerable Tempest King Helios Gustav¡¯ or ¡®Oh, the Almighty and Powerful Tempest King Helios Gustav¡¯. Of course, you can also call him handsome, but he¡¯ll only spare you a quick nce. That¡¯s how bad it is.¡±

    ¡°Not only that, but if you enter his inheritance, almost every nook and cranny of the ce would be filled to the brim with his figures. If not a statue of his whole body, you would see a bust. If there isn¡¯t enough space for a bust, there would be a self-portrait of him. Even the ce where he rests is covered with pictures of his own face. His mattress, pillows, and even the nket he uses has pictures of his face on it. He¡¯s so narcissistic that he even went to another continent just to have those things made for him.¡±

    ¡°And if you thought it stopped there¡­I¡¯m not over yet,¡± Felix said as he looked at Argentum, who now had an expression of extreme shock and fear on his face. Any ideas of wanting to work with Helios had now gone down the drain. The level of narcissism Felix had just mentioned was already beyond his level of tolerance, but to think that there was even more to it just scared him.

    ¡°Fortunately, he knows how to wear appropriately, though he always wears a locket with a picture of his own face on it. From time to time, he would open the locket and kiss it as if it was his wife. Whenever he woulde across a mirror, he would get closer to the mirror. and kiss himself from head to toe. And if he¡¯s in the shower, he would¡ª¡± Felix said, only to be interrupted by Argentum as he hastily said, ¡°Alright, alright. I get it. He¡¯s so narcissistic, there¡¯s no point working with him.¡±

    ¡°If only that was the case, Argentum,¡± Felix said with a bitter chuckle. ¡°He wouldn¡¯t be the owner of an inheritance if he was just overly narcissistic.¡±

    By this time, all thoughts of working with Helios werepletely and thoroughly removed from his mind. Though, Felix¡¯s next words brought a bit of those thoughts back, albeit with the thinking of those thoughts beingst priority.

    ¡°It¡¯s quite ironic that such a narcissistic man like him would be great atbat. Then again, he wouldn¡¯t be able to protect his appearance if he didn¡¯t know how to protect himself,¡± Felix said. ¡°Not only that, but he¡¯s incredibly skilled in the maniption of the Wind element. I have a feeling that his understanding of the Wind element is way above yours, Argentum, even if yours is already at the True Element level.¡±

    ¡®Fortunately, he¡¯s only good atbat. I probably wouldn¡¯t have a choice but to work with him if he¡¯s also good at alchem¡ª¡¯ Argentum thought to himself while listening to Felix¡¯s words, only to be interrupted as the urge to bang his head on the ground soon surfaced.

    ¡°On top of that, he¡¯s also good at concocting potions, just like me. Well, to be honest, he¡¯s far more proficient in concocting potions whenpared to me,¡± Felix continued. ¡°Remember how you gave me 5 batches of materials to concoct Heaven¡¯s Wind Potions. If you gave the same amount of materials to him, I have a feeling that he wouldn¡¯t just be able to concoct 50 of them, even 200 of those sks wouldn¡¯t be impossible.¡±

    Thud! Thud! Thud!

    Just as Felix was finished talking about Helios¡¯s good sides, the sound of a dull thud resounded throughout the area, prompting the three to look at the origin of the sound. Surprisingly, they soon found out that the origin of the sound came from Argentum as he banged his head on the ground with the greatest force he could muster. It was as if he was trying to forget that this conversation had ever happened.

    ¡°Do the heavens really want me to work with this guy?!¡± Argentum could not help but shout as he continued to bang his head on the ground. In response to his question, Felix told Argentum, ¡°Well, it¡¯s not like you¡¯re forced to work with him. We still know a few people that excel in the Wind element and are good with alchemy that don¡¯t have the same personality as him.¡±

    Hearing those words, Argentum¡¯s aura instantly turned into that of excitement and optimism as he stood up and asked Felix, ¡°Are any of them also good at marketing the potions?¡±

    In response to that question, Felix, Eleanor, and Rosalia looked at each other before looking at Argentum and giving him bitter smiles, or equivalents of it. Seeing this, Argentum could not help but let out a sigh as he asked with a hint of eptance, ¡°Let me guess¡­he¡¯s also great at marketing¡­right?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m afraid so,¡± Felix replied, to which Argentum let out a long sigh as he furiously scratched his head. After that, he steeled his heart for the journey that he was about to embark on. ¡°Alright, I guess I have no choice but to head to the Heaven¡¯s Gust Inheritance.¡±

    As he said that, he looked at Rosalia and said, ¡°Since you¡¯re an Animate, I think it would be better for you to be the one to contact the town officials while I¡¯m at the inheritance.¡±

    Surprisingly, Rosalia shook her head as she responded, ¡°No. I¡¯m going with you.¡±

    ¡°Hmm? Why?¡± Argentum asked not long after, curious as to why she would apany him all of a sudden. As for Felix and Eleanor, they looked at Rosalia and simultaneously thought as they inwardly let out sighs of relief, ¡®At the very least, Argentum wouldn¡¯t have too bad of a time there.¡¯

    Oblivious to what the two were thinking, Rosalia answered Argentum¡¯s question. ¡°That¡¯s because I¡¯m the one most familiar with Helios¡¯s personality. Not only that, but he¡¯s also an Animate, just like me. Don¡¯t you think it would be better for you to have someone familiar with his personality?¡±

    ¡°Are you sure you want to apany me, Rosalia? Don¡¯t you have your inheritance to look out for?¡± Argentum hastily asked, to which Rosalia replied, ¡°I let Argento be in charge of the inheritance¡¯s mechanisms in the meantime, so you don¡¯t have to worry a thing.¡±

    ¡°Well, if you say so,¡± Argentum said with a tone of gratitude. He then looked at Eleanor and Felix before saying, ¡°I don¡¯t know which one of you will be the one contacting the town officials, but please help them out as much as possible, okay?¡±

    Eleanor was the one to respond to Argentum¡¯s question this time, telling him not to worry. ¡°Rx for now, Argentum. A great kingdom isn¡¯t built in a day, you know. Just leave the projects you¡¯ve told us to me and Felix.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll definitely repay the three of you back someday,¡± Argentum said not long after before bidding farewell to Eleanor and Felix with Rosalia. The two of them then left the inheritance as they headed to the Heaven¡¯s Gust Inheritance as fast as possible.

    ¡­

    With Rosalia carrying Argentum along the way to the Heaven¡¯s Gust Inheritance, they had arrived at the ce where it was located by the time the moon was at its peak. Nevertheless, the dim moonlight was still enough for Argentum to be left at a loss for words as they stood in front of what looked like the entrance to the Heaven¡¯s Gust Inheritance.

    Just like how the entrance to Felix and Rosalia¡¯s inheritances looked, the entrance to the Heaven¡¯s Gust Inheritance also seemed to have the appearance of a majestic castle. Though, unlike their entrances, the castle gave off an aura of beckoning, yet at the same time rejection. It gave one the feeling that only those deemed worthy would be able to enter the inheritance.

    As he gawked at the sight of the beautiful entrance, Argentum looked at Rosalia beside him and asked, ¡°You told me that he¡¯s an Animate, right? Doesn¡¯t that mean he¡¯s asleep by now?¡±

    In response, Rosalia lightly grinned as she said, ¡°Watch this.¡±

    Rumble¡­

    With a stomp of her foot, the ground surrounding the entrance to the Heaven¡¯s Gust Inheritance started to madly tremble like an earthquake was happening, giving off the feeling that the majestic castle in front of them was about to tremble at any time. Though, after some point, this trembling stopped as an annoyed voice soon resounded, saying, ¡°For fuck¡¯s sake, I¡¯m trying to get some beauty sleep here!¡±

    Soon after, the silhouette of a slightly tall man appeared in front of the two of them, soon revealing itself in front of the two. Although the man was wearing what seemed to befortable light green sleepwear, it did not hide the aura the man was emanating, which was that of sharpness and swiftness¡­if one ignored the rage mixed into the aura, of course.

    Seeing how the sleepwear could not hide the lean yet dense muscles of the man,bined with his above average face, it made others think that he was the perfect man. In any case, this cranky man was none other than the owner of the Heaven¡¯s Gust Inheritance, the Tempest King, Helios Gustav.

    ¡°Now who the fuck are you two to be so daring to disturb my slumbe¡ªRosalia? Is that actually you?¡± Helios said, only to stop and change his statement as he noticed that one of the two people was actually one of his old friends, Rosalia. Nevertheless, only a slight expression of surprise could be seen on his face as he continued, ¡°Well, in any case, leave me be. I¡¯m trying to get some shuteye here.¡±

    Just as he turned around, Rosalia reached out to him and said, ¡°Wait a second, Helios. I have something to ask of you?¡±

    ¡°What? Do you want this divine being to model for your paintings once more like the old times? Well, although I might be sleepy, I wouldn¡¯t mind doing that just for you,¡± Helios replied with an indifferent tone, though a hint of a chuckle could be heard at the end of it.

    In an instant, Rosalia shook her head as she replied, ¡°That¡¯s not it. I need your help in something.¡±

    ¡°Oh?¡± Although his expression was still somewhat disinterested, Helios raised his eyebrow.

    Noticing that she had gotten his attention, Rosalia then introduced Argentum beside her to Helios, saying, ¡°Helios, this is my friend, Argentum. He¡¯s the leader of a town and he would like you to be a benefactor of the town to make it prosper. Of course, he¡¯s willing to pay the price to enlist your help.¡±

    Surprisingly, after Helios realized that the one needing help wasn¡¯t Rosalia but some nobody he hadn¡¯t heard of, he turned around once more as he waved his hand, saying, ¡°Don¡¯t involve me in any of that. This divine being is beyond the worth of a measly town.¡±

    At that moment, Argentum thought to himself, ¡®Ah, fuck it! Only these two would know of what happened here anyway.¡¯

    With that, he mustered up all his courage as he said without hesitation, ¡°Oh, the Charming and Handsome Tempest King that would Smite even the Heavens with His Looks Alone, the All-Powerful and Venerable Helios Gustav. Please listen to my request.¡±

    ¡°¡­¡±

    ¡°¡­¡±

    ¡°¡­I¡¯m listening.¡±

 Chapter 370: An Unusual Condition

    Chapter 370: An Unusual Condition

    ¡°I can¡¯t believe that actually worked,¡± Argentum could not help but mutter to himself, thinking that it was actually easier than he initially thought to make Helios agree in bing one of the benefactors of Verdant Breeze Town. Even Rosalia, who knew how Helios acted, could not help but look at Argentum and give him a thumbs up due to the flowery words he used to tter Helios.

    Nevertheless, Argentum was quite unsure how to proceed from there onwards, so he hastily sent a strand of energy to Rosalia, connecting the two as he asked her, ¡°If Ipliment him, should I stay at the same level, or do I just gradually increase the level ofpliments?¡±

    Rosalia, who looked at Helios and noticed that there was still an indifferent expression on his face, soon replied to Argentum¡¯s query, advising him, ¡°I¡¯d go with the first one. Although Helios may be narcissistic, he¡¯ll eventually find out that yourpliments towards him are fake if you gradually increase the ttery in your words. Of course, I¡¯m not saying that you have to be sincere in your words whileplimenting him, just saying topliment him in moderation.¡±

    ¡°Alright, then.¡± Argentum inwardly nodded before cutting off the connection between them as he looked at Helios once more. At this moment, the hint of interest Helios had towards Argentum was close to disappearing, prompting the former to say to thetter, ¡°Did you just attract my attention topliment this divine being? Well, I shall give my thanks. But if you have nothing else to say, then leave me be. I still need to have my proper beauty sleep.¡±

    ¡°Please wait, Sir Helios,¡± Argentum soon said, prompting a look of slight interest to appear on Helios¡¯s face once more as he waited for Argentum to talk. ¡°I do have something to talk with you. I want you, the most handsome and most talented person I¡¯ve met so far, to be a benefactor of my lowly Verdant Breeze Town.¡±

    ¡°Be the benefactor of a town? Are you asking this divine being right here to spare your lowly self a small amount of mary resources?¡± Helios raised his eyebrow as the offer was brought up once more, though this time he did not refuse it outright. ¡°Well, if it is an amount that is still within this divine being¡¯s level of tolerance, then I would not mind being magnanimous and bring a bit of prosperity to a lowly town.¡±

    Knowing very well that the offer he was giving Helios was that of a long-term partnership, Argentum hastily rified as he shook his head, ¡°I dare not to ask for your own financial assets, oh Great Tempest King. All I would like to request from your esteemed self is for you to concoct a potion that I shall give the recipe to. The profit from the selling of these potions would then go towards the town to help bolster its economy. I truly dare not to ask for your financial assets, Sir Helios.¡±

    He then continued, adding a bit more ttery to his words, ¡°I have heard from my good friend Rosalia here that you excel in the arts of alchemy, even surpassing the proficiency of my other friend Felix. I believe that with your mastery over the arts of alchemy, as well as the arts of business, you would create a great profit with the potions, greatly boosting the economy of the lowly town this lowly self governs.¡±

    ¡°Felix?¡± Hearing that name, Helios could not help but look at Argentum once more before turning his head to look at Rosalia. ¡°Rosalia, he also knows Felix?¡±

    ¡°And Eleanor,¡± Rosalia said as she shrugged her shoulders. ¡°Oh, and Melzarin as well.¡±

    ¡°Even that thick-headed Melzarin?¡± Seeing as to how Argentum knew some of his closest friends, Helios could not help but think that Argentum was his stalker of some sort. Though, instead of feeling immense disgust, he instead felt immense delight as he thought to himself, ¡®To think I would actually have a fan.¡¯

    With that, his opinion of Argentum had improved as he soon responded to Argentum¡¯s request, saying after a bit of contemtion, ¡°You do speak the truth right there. This divine being is indeed a master of alchemy, as well as business. Alright, then. You are worthy of being able to enlist my, the great Helios Gustav¡¯s help.¡±

    Hearing that Helios had epted his offer, the expression on Argentum¡¯s face turned into that of a smile as an aura of delight surrounded him. Though, this happiness of his was dampened shortly after as Helios said, ¡°Though, if the potion you request of this divine being to concoct is not up to my standards, then I would have to decline the offer and give you a part of my mary assets instead. I would not let you go empty-handed for I am a magnanimous being.¡±

    Although he was unsure as to whether or not such a potion would be up to Helios¡¯s standards, he did know that the effect of the Heaven¡¯s Wind Potion would be enough to entice even an Animate like Rosalia. In his mind, if Helios was uninterested in the Heaven¡¯s Wind Potion, then that meant that the two of them working together was just not fated to happen.

    Taking in a deep breath, Argentum then sent Helios a strand of energy that contained the ingredients and instructions regarding the concoction of the Heaven¡¯s Wind Potion, lightly bowing with respect as he said, ¡°I may not be certain if this inferior potion of mine piques the interest of an incredibly talented being like you, but if it does catch your eye, I would be incredibly grateful.¡±

    And so, the recipe to concoct the Heaven¡¯s Wind Potion was soon sent to Helios as an indifferent expression was seen on his face. Though, not long after, this expression turned into that of slight interest as his breathing turned slightly raucous. ¡°Hmm?¡±

    ¡°This is¡­¡± As he continued to read through the recipe given by Argentum, the arrogance and pride that came from his narcissistic nature gradually disappeared, being reced with surprise and satisfaction from his love for alchemy. Eventually, he muttered, ¡°Although the effect of the potion is multiple levels subparpared to other potions that do the same thing, the materials needed to concoct this potion are quite easy to procure¡­¡±

    ¡°Argentum¡­was it?¡± After Helios was finished looking through the recipe, he looked at Argentum and asked, ¡°This Heaven¡¯s Wind Potion of yours¡­are you sure you would want this divine being to be the one responsible for the concoction and distribution of the potion? I am highly certain that if you were to offer others this recipe, they would immediately be subservient to you.¡±

    ¡°Subservience is not what I need, Sir Helios. All I need is arge enough profit that would speed up the development of my humble Verdant Breeze Town,¡± Argentum replied before letting out a chuckle. ¡°Although it would be great to have the protection of a strong being as the town is developing, I would not like my citizens to be socent as to forget polishing their own individual power.¡±

    Listening to Argentum¡¯s words, Helios¡¯s impression of him had improved, thinking that he was quite sincere in his offer. Not only that, but it felt like he even wanted to form a long-term partnership with Helios, which Helios did not have much of a problem with.

    Of course, due to the sheer scarcity of such potions like this in the market, Helios thought that Argentum was allowing him to take advantage of his weaker strength. With that, he decided that it was no problem for him to ept Argentum¡¯s offer, and even help him out a little bit.

    Letting out a sigh, which slightly surprised the two, Helios then looked at Argentum as his prideful aura soon enveloped him once more. ¡°Alright, this magnanimous being right here shall ept your offer of bing the benefactor of your lowly Verdant Breeze Town¡­¡±

    ¡°¡­but on one condition.¡±

    ¡°What would that condition be, Sir Helios? If it is something that this lowly self can achieve, then I would not hesitate to give it my all to fulfill your conditions,¡± Argentum hastily said, delightful at the fact that Verdant Breeze Town now had one more benefactor that would help out.

    Hearing Argentum¡¯s eagerness to fulfill his conditions, Helios could not help but have a light smirk on his face as he turned around and gestured towards the two to follow him. Noticing this actions, both Rosalia and Argentum looked at each other for a bit with a hint of shock as they did not expect that the cranky Helios from before would actually invite them inside his inheritance.

    Nevertheless, they knew very well to not dy him thanks to his personality, hastily following behind him as the three of them disappeared from the entrance of Heaven¡¯s Gust Inheritance soon after.

    ¡­

    Whoosh!

    A few secondster, the three of them had appeared in the middle of what seemed to be an incredibly long corridor. With the inheritance being rted to Wind, motifs that were of green color could be seen on the walls from time to time, though most of these motifs were covered by the various mediums that showed Helios¡¯s figure to those that passed through this corridor.

    Just like what Felix told him, by the time Rosalia and he entered the inheritance proper, he was instantly greeted by the sight of multiple statues, busts, as well as paintings that allowed people to view Helios from various perspectives. Not only that, but Helios¡¯s face could even be seen on the floor they were standing on, taking on the form of carpets that extended to both ends of the long corridor they were in.

    Seeing as to how Argentum was looking at his surroundings with surprise, a slightly proud expression could not help but appear on Helios¡¯s face as he said, ¡°Beautiful, right? Unfortunately, this magnanimous being will not let you look at this divine figure for long as we have to head somewhere else in the inheritance.¡±

    After that, arge amount of Wind energy particles started to condense around Helios before heading towards Rosalia and Argentum, wrapping them in what looked like a cocoon made out of Wind energy particles.

    Making sure that the two of them werefortable, Helios then gathered a small mass of Wind energy particles before stepping on it like a magic carpet as he then warned them, ¡°This quick trip of ours might be¡­slightly nauseating.¡±

    Whoosh!

    With his great mastery over the element of Wind, the three of them soon zoomed through the corridor at breakneck speeds, turning the various statues and whatnot scattered across the sides of the corridor to turn into a blur as both Rosalia and Argentum focused their sights at the very end of the corridor.

    At first, they were only barely able to make out the silhouette of an entrance. Though, a few secondster, this entrance soon expanded greatly in size, even turning out to be farrger than the corridor as the insides of the room connected to the corridor could be seen.

    Eventually, the three of them had stopped just by the entrance of thisrge room, with Helios removing the cocoon of Wind energy particles that enveloped both Rosalia and Argentum. By the time they dropped down, the two of them could not help but feel a bit dizzy, though it did not take long for them to return to their normal selves by circting the energy inside their body.

    After that, they redirected their gazes towards therge room, wondering what the three of them would do inside a room that was empty. Fortunately, it did not take long for the two of them to find out what they were about to do here as Helios looked at Argentum and said, ¡°Argentum, heed this divine being¡¯s words and head towards the center of this room in front of us.¡±

    ¡°Can I ask the great Tempest King to tell me the reason behind such an order?¡± Argentum soon asked, though he did have a few ideas as to why Helios would have him do such a thing.

    With a faint chuckle, Helios then told him, ¡°This is the one condition I need you to fulfill before I shall be the benefactor of your Verdant Breeze Town. The condition that I have given for you to fulfill is to¡­¡±

    ¡°¡­go through my trials.¡±

 Chapter 371: Myriad Helios Formation

    Chapter 371: Myriad Helios Formation

    ¡°Come again? Go through your trials?¡± Argentum asked, wondering if he had misheard Helios¡¯s words. In response, Helios lightly nodded as he said, ¡°Indeed. The condition that you need to fulfill is to undergo through my trials.¡±

    ¡°Really, Helios?¡± Rosalia could not help but say in slight disappointment. ¡°You really want someone like Argentum to go through your trials first before you offer your help? You weren¡¯t like this before.¡±

    ¡°That was then, and this is now,¡± Helios indifferently responded before continuing, ¡°Of course, Argentum right here should consider the fact that this divine being here am already giving him the chance to enlist my help in the development of his lowly town as a blessing. If not for my kindness and magnanimity, I would have rejected the offer from the very start.¡±

    ¡®Well, you were going to reject it until I started topliment you,¡¯ Argentum thought to himself as he pondered as to how he could get more from Helios since enlisting the help of Helios in exchange for him undergoing through his trials seemed like a very bad deal. Fortunately, just as he was close to having an idea as to what he could say to sweeten the deal, Rosalia said to Helios as if she was reading Argentum¡¯s mind, ¡°Helios, don¡¯t be like that. You know very well how disadvantageous the deal is for Argentum, right? If you don¡¯t add a reward or something else to sweeten up the deal, how would you expect him to do his best in your trials?¡±

    Just as Helios was about to reject the offer, Rosalia¡¯s next words swayed him towards epting the idea.

    ¡°Or would you like such a being to defile the trials you¡¯ve painstakingly crafted and designed with a shoddy performance?¡±

    ¡°Never!¡± Helios vehemently said as he instantly came up with a reward that would make the deal better on Argentum¡¯s side. Of course, he took into consideration the fact that Argentum was his fan, saying, ¡°Argentum. If you clear all of my trials, this divine being right here shall give you the power to request one thing from me. It could be power, it could be riches, anything you wish for, I shall fulfill.¡±

    At that instant, Argentum¡¯s motivation to clear the trials Helios would throw at him was raised to new heights as he responded, following Rosalia¡¯s level of ttery, ¡°Oh, Tempest King! You are truly magnanimous and kind. This lowly being in front of you shall try to satisfy your various senses with the performance I shall give you!¡±

    Well¡­more like he tried to.

    Nevertheless, Helios was satisfied with what he heard from Argentum, though Rosalia could not help but slightly wince in pain from the cringe Argentum¡¯s response had. Of course, as someone who owned an inheritance, she only showed this for a split-second, returning to her normal expression not long after.

    ¡°Since you¡¯ve given me your word of certainty, then I, Helios Gustav, shall not dy your trials further,¡± Helios said as he snapped his fingers, prompting the room Argentum was in to madly rumble as thetter wondered what was happening. Though, it did not take long for this confusion to turn into speechlessness as the entirendscape surrounding Argentum had drastically changed.

    From what was once an empty room, Argentum could now be seen in the center of what seemed to be a mini-replica of arge arena from the ancient times. On two sides, metallic-looking gates could be seen while the pirs that held up the whole arena were carved to show Helios¡¯s muscr figure. Not only that, but the seats on the arena seemed to be taken up by beings made out of wind, bearing the likeness of Helios himself.

    On top of that, there was an area specifically made for him to sit, which was also adorned to the brim with his face or figure in one way or another. Hastily forming a seat for Rosalia to sit on, Helios then looked at the mini-arena with a look of pride as he asked her, ¡°Don¡¯t you think this is fitting for someone trying to take my trials?¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t you think you went a little bit too overboard?¡± Rosalia said in response, to which Helios let out a chuckle as pride could still be seen on his face. ¡°You¡¯re quite mistaken, Rosalia. I, Helios Gustav, have created this arena in order to stimte the blood circting within the body of the one taking my trials. Not only that, but I would like them tomit my face, me, the great Helios Gustav, into their memory and remind them who the owner of the inheritance is.¡±

    ¡°Okay then¡­¡± Rosalia perfunctorily said as she hastily redirected her focus towards Argentum, who was standing at the center of the arena with a hint of confusion.

    Hearing the crowd of beings made out of wind simultaneously cheer on him and boo him out from the arena, Argentum could not help but wonder as to how skilled Helios was when it came to controlling the Wind element. From what he could see, Helios wasn¡¯t even breaking a sweat when creating these things out of thin air. Of course, he did not know if Felix and the others also had the ability, but since they¡¯re all owners of inheritances, it wouldn¡¯t be surprising if they did.

    After admiring the exquisite craftsmanship of the arena for a bit more, Helios¡¯s voice resounded throughout the arena as the crowd went silent. ¡°Heed my words, trial taker. You have entered the Heaven¡¯s Gust Inheritance in order to inherit my prowess over the Wind element. To do so, you must be deemed worthy by going through the three trials I have crafted to bring out the greatest qualities I look for in a sessor.¡±

    Rumble¡­

    Not long after Helios was finished talking, the ground surrounding Argentum started to tremble as signs of a magic circle started to appear on the ground he stood on. After that, this giant magic circle glowed a faint light green as multiple entities started to manifest around Argentum wearing what seemed to be a replica of cloth armor. Though, the thing that stood out the most from these entities was the fact that they all had¡­Helios¡¯s face on it.

    With a smug smile on his face as he allowed the crowd to cheer wildly, Helios then said, ¡°You are not being deceived by your eyes, trial taker. What is in front of you is indeed my likeness. 10,000 of them, to be more exact. The first trial you shall go through is called¡­the Myriad Helios Formation!¡±

    Exining the mechanics, he continued, ¡°The goal of the Myriad Helios Formation is simple. All of these cope have around a quarter of the power of my actual defense. All you have to do is to do destroy all of them with one move in the most beautiful manner you could think of.¡±

    ¡°With that, the first trial now begins!¡±

    ¡°Wooooo!!!¡±

    As the crowd of beings made out of wind cheered loudly at the moment Helios signaled the first trial¡¯s beginning, Argentum could not help but scratch his head as he wondered how he was going to take all of them out at once. Soon after, he looked at Helios and asked, ¡°I would like to ask the great Tempest King if I¡¯m only limited to the Wind element or if I could any element I wish?¡±

    ¡°Since you¡¯re not taking the trial to inherit something from me, this divine being shall be magnanimous enough to allow you to use any element you see fit,¡± Helios said with a hint of nonchnce, slightly curious as to how Argentum was going to destroy 10,000 copies of himself at once.

    ¡®Fortunately, I¡¯m not limited by elements,¡¯ Argentum thought to himself as he pondered over what attacks he had in his arsenal that would allow him to wipe all 10,000 copies of Helios off this arena. Of course, the thought of creating skills with his four Sage¡¯s Magic skills came to mind, though he decided to do a test with a skill he had already created before.

    Raising one of his hands up in the air as a swirl of blue light soon appeared on top of it, he then swung it downwards as he shouted, ¡°[Eighty-One Meteors of Frozen Grandeur]!¡±

    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!

    Out of thin air, multiple meteors of ice started to rain down from the ceiling of the room, crashing onto the Helios clones that surrounded Argentum. With each meteor, around 50 or so of those clones would disappear, only to be reformed not long after as not all of them were destroyed in one go. Seeing that, Argentum went silent for a bit as he thought to himself, ¡®So, my current damage would allow me to wipe out 50 clones with one attack. Is it because the clones have strong defense or is it because I¡¯m weak?¡¯

    ¡®Oh well. I¡¯ll surmount the gap using buffs and domains anyway,¡¯ he soon thought as he decided to create a few True Element skills with his Sage¡¯s Magic skills. Though, all of them only ended up destroying about half or three-quarters of the amount one meteor from the [Eighty-One Meteors of Frozen Grandeur] could destroy. Well, that was also because the skill was a Blessed Element skill unlike the ones he had crafted.

    ¡°If only I had a skill that was strong enough to wipe out more copies,¡± Argentum muttered to himself, only to recall that he did have a skill that could do such a thing. Well, he wasn¡¯t sure if it would have the ability to do so, but from the element it used, he knew that it would definitely deal more damagepared to the skill he used before.

    ¡°[Lesser Origin Magic: Truth],¡± Argentum soon murmured as he raised his hand up in the air, allowing the information regarding the spell contained within the skill to enter his mind as a white magic circle soon appeared on top of it.

    Oneyer¡­twoyers¡­threeyers¡­

    A total of fiveyers of magic circles appeared on top of Argentum¡¯s raised hand, giving off a feeling that it was controlling something far beyond the world they were in, prompting Rosalia and Helios to look at Argentum in earnest.

    ¡°Is this the Lesser Origin element Felix and the others were talking about?¡± Rosalia could not help but mutter to herself. As for Helios, he onlymented with a hint of indifference, ¡°How interesting.¡±

    Eventually, the fiveyers gave off the feeling that they were as one, allowing Argentum to swing it down as he soon shouted, ¡°[First Summoning: Mjolnir¡¯s Awakening]!¡±

    Whoosh!

    Bang!

    Just like how the meteors formed out of thin air, arge hammer made out of white light soon descended from the ceiling before crashing down at high speeds, destroying quite a lot of the copies in the process. With his Origin Sense, Argentum found out that he was able to destroy about 350 or so copies with that attack alone.

    Although it was far from enough to destroy 10,000 copies in one go, Argentum had a feeling that he would be able to surmount this gap through his buffs and domains alone.

    With that, he started casting all of the buffs and domains he knew.

    ¡°[Niflheim Horizon].¡±

    ¡°[Field of Muspelheim].¡±

    ¡°[Garden of Alfheim].¡±

    ¡°¡­¡±

    ¡°¡­¡±

    ¡°[Aqua Imperium Universalis].¡±

    Since the domain skills took up most of his MP, he cast those skills first, covering the ground in the colors red, blue, and green. Soon after, his body would also gain these colors as the aura surrounding him became more and more condensed, giving off the feeling that he was actually a wolf in sheep¡¯s clothing.

    At this point, both Helios and Rosalia were at a loss for words as both of them did not expect Argentum to have the ability to boost his power to this level. Of course, Argentum knew that he wouldn¡¯t be able to keep up this state for long as the domains were close to disappearing. With that, he quickly raised his hand up in the air as fiveyers of magic circles soon appeared on top of it once more.

    Feeling that the magic circles had be as one yet again, Argentum then jumped off the ground with all his might before swinging his hand downward.

    ¡°[First Summoning: Mjolnir¡¯s Awakening]!¡±

    Whoosh!

    ¡­

    Bang!

    Just like before, a hammer made out of white light descended from the ceiling of the room they were in. Though, unlike before, the destructiveness of this hammer was raised to 11 as the various buffs Argentum applied onto himself increased the power of the hammer while the domains under the copies weakened their resistance towards the hammer itself.

    With such abo, at the very moment the hammer touched the ground, it was as if a massive bomb had been triggered as all 10,000 copies disappeared from the arena. Not only that, even the walls of the arena weren¡¯t spared as it was sted into smithereens.

    Of course, Helios hastily fixed the walls amidst the surprise he got from Argentum¡¯s move. Though, his surprise hade to a full stop as Argentumnded on the ground as all of the buffs and domains he had cast disappeared one by one.

    With a light chuckle, Argentum looked in Helios¡¯s direction and asked, ¡°Did I clear the first trial?¡±

 Chapter 372: The Tempest Helios Statue

    Chapter 372: The Tempest Helios Statue

    ¡°Did I clear the first trial?¡± Although Argentum asked Helios that question in his usual polite manner, to Helios, it seemed like Argentum was mocking him, telling him that the trial he had given to him was incredibly easy to clear. To him, it was as if his words were grating on his ears.

    Naturally, with that kind of thought process, Helios could not help but slightly frown, though he hastily hid it as he knew that Argentum wasn¡¯t mocking him at all. How could his fan mock someone like him, the great Tempest King? And so, suppressing all urges toe down to the arena and show Argentum who¡¯s boss, Helios silently took in a deep breath as he slowly nodded, responding with indifference, ¡°Indeed. You have cleared the first trial.¡±

    Of course, thinking of himself as the greatest existence in the world, he made sure to add a few words that would make Argentum¡¯s feat seem like nothing. ¡°Nevertheless, the manner in which you have eradicated those 10,000 copies were quite all over the ce. At most, the performance you were able to give me only made me briefly chuckle in excitement at most. But since I am the almighty and magnanimous Tempest King, I shall let this pass and allow you to go through the next trial.¡±

    Hearing that, Argentum could not help but scratch his head as he shifted his vision to Rosalia. Surprisingly, Rosalia was also scratching her head as she gave Argentum a shrug, non-verbally telling him that he was always like this. Knowing that he had to change his impression of Helios, Argentum gave a light nod before going silent.

    ¡°As you have consumed quite a bit of energy during the first trial, this divine being shall allow you to rest for quite some time before the next trial begins,¡± Helios said not long after as he snapped his fingers, conjuring a magic circle under Argentum that allowed more energy to enter his surroundings. Seeing this, Argentum could not help but be surprised that Helios had ess to such spells, wondering if he could create something like this through his Sage¡¯s Magic skills.

    As Argentum closed his sense of vision and allowed his energy to replenish, Helios could not help but look at Rosalia and say, ¡°I wasn¡¯t expecting him to clear the trial that easily. Even though I lowered the defenses of those copies to a quarter of this divine being, it would still take someone a lot of time to break through even one.¡±

    Hearing how Helios was trying to strike up a conversation with her, Rosalia could not help but awkwardly chuckle as she responded, ¡°Well, that¡¯s Argentum for you. He wouldn¡¯t have known Felix and the others if he didn¡¯t have something interesting to offer.¡±

    ¡°Since you brought up that topic, who was the first one Argentum met among them?¡± Helios soon asked, to which Rosalia hastily sent a few messages to Felix and the others through multiple strands of energy. Not long after, she made it seem like she pondered over the matter for a bit before saying, ¡°If I remember correctly, Eleanor was the first one to meet up with Argentum, while Felix is the second.¡±

    ¡°After that would be Melzarin, then me, then you,¡± Rosalia continued, prompting Helios to nod as he said, ¡°Well, it¡¯s no surprise that he hasn¡¯t met Lucius and Tyrphon yet. Judging by the skills he used to destroy those copies, he only has control over the four foundational elements.¡±

    As Helios mentioned the names Lucius and Tyrphon, Rosalia could not help but slightly shudder, wondering why Helios would bring such names up out of nowhere. Unfortunately for her, Helios did not go in-depth into the topic, prompting her to ce the thought at the back of her head.

    Looking at Argentum from time to time as he recovered his energy, another question popped up in his head, deciding to ask Rosalia once more. ¡°Now that I think about it, this divine being doesn¡¯t know of his existence level. I know he¡¯s a Pseudo-Animate from his appearance alone, but what level is he at exactly?¡±

    Sending a few more strands of energy towards Eleanor and the others, Rosalia eventually got her answer as she also looked at Argentum, referencing what she had heard from the others with what she was looking at right now. Lightly coughing, she responded, ¡°If I remember what Eleanor and the others told me, he used to have a different appearance while he was still at the Normal-grade Pseudo-Animate level. With that, there¡¯s a high chance that he¡¯s now at the Magic-grade Pseudo-Animate level.¡±

    ¡°Huh?¡± This time, Helios could not hide his shock anymore, with his aloof facade nowhere to be seen at this point. From what he had just seen, the level of power Argentum had shown was way beyond what his current existence level dictated. With that, he could not help but see things for himself as he sneakily sent a few strands of energy towards Argentum, making sure that he did not notice them.

    As for Rosalia, she could not help but lightly frown at what Helios was trying to do, but after recalling those strands back as he muttered that Argentum was indeed a Magic-grade Pseudo-Animate, that frown hastily disappeared.

    Nevertheless, with this new piece, Helios could not help but wonder what he could do to make the trials harder. Although he was happy that his fan was quite powerful, he was more displeased with the fact that his trials were easily cleared. If his trials were cleared without a problem like some pushovers, then what did he, the great Tempest King, the supreme owner of the Heaven¡¯s Gust Inheritance, would be?

    Wouldn¡¯t he be a lousy inheritance owner?

    Of course, this train of thought was only possible due to Helios¡¯s personality, even if this kind of situation rarely happened. To him, if he was the greatest existence in the world, then he thought that he should have the greatest inheritance in the world, with his trials being the greatest as well.

    With that, he pondered over the next trial Argentum was going to take. Eventually, he hade up with a good one as he decided to restrict Argentum¡¯s freedom over the elements quite a bit. As a light yet scheming smile briefly appeared on his face, Helios removed the magic circle that helped Argentum gather energy, prompting Argentum to stand up and look at Helios with a hint of curiosity towards the next trial.

    Not long after, thendscape at the center of the arena was quickly reced as ayer of leaves soon appeared on the ground Argentum was going on. While he was still wondering as to why there were leaves on the ground, anotheryer of leaves soon appeared on top of it, then anotheryer, and another until fiveyers of leaves could be seen on the ground surrounding Argentum.

    At this point, the crowd of beings made out of wind let out a raucous cheer as Helios announced the next trial Argentum was going to take. With a tone of pride and confidence in his voice, he then said, ¡°The second trial you shall go through is called¡­the Tempest Helios Statue!¡±

    As a proud smile could be seen on his face, he exined the mechanics, saying, ¡°In this trial, you must use the leaves on the ground to create a statue that bears likeness to the figure and face of this divine being right here, the great Tempest King, Helios Gustav.¡±

    He then continued, making sure that his next instructions weren¡¯t made on the spot. ¡°To make sure that the statue you create would bear the most likeness, this trial shall limit you, the trial taker, to the usage of only the Wind element. If this divine being right here catches you using another element, I would not hesitate to fail you and reject your offer. Does this supreme being right here need to repeat what I said?¡±

    ¡°No need, Tempest King. This lowly being right here hasmitted your words to memory,¡± Argentum replied, making sure to please Helios while doing so.

    Seeing that Argentum did not forget his ce, Helios let out a brief snort as he announced the start of the trial, saying, ¡°The second trial begins!¡±

    Unsurprisingly, the crowd of beings made out of wind let out wave after wave of cheers, some encouraging and some discouraging within the mix. Of course, since the crowd was only here to bring a bit of life to the arena Helios had made, Argentum wholly ignored the existence of the crowd as he pondered over how he was going to create a statue of Helios using the leaves covering the ground.

    As he looked at the statues of Helios adorning the pirs surrounding the arena walls, Argentum soon noticed that the leaves took on various shades of skin, with oneyer of leaves even taking on a dark color. With that, he could not help but think that there was a hidden condition to this trial. He had a feeling that if he did not emte Helios¡¯s current appearance as much as possible, he would fail.

    With that, he decided to do a few test runs, checking to see if his control over the Wind element was good enough to do what Helios tasked him to do. Surprisingly, just as Argentum infused a bit of his mana on the surrounding air, a small gust of wind was formed, which Argentum willed to move to the right.

    Normally, the direction of the wind would be random if one tried to control it, but for Argentum, the direction of the wind moved ordingly to his thoughts, giving Argentum a slight shock as he wondered why it was happening. Fortunately, it did not take long for him to recall that his affinity with the Wind element had reached the True Element level. In other words, it was no problem for him to control the wind ording to his needs.

    And so, knowing his level of arts and crafts, or to be more exact, Aurus¡¯s level of arts and crafts in the past life very well, Argentum went ahead and infused a lot of his mana into the surrounding air as he used the wind to cut up all of the leaves within a certain radius into small squares. Although Aurus wasn¡¯t very good at arts and crafts, there was one thing he slightly excelled at among the various mediums.

    Coges!

    Indeed, he was going to create a three-dimensional coge out of the small squares, trying to emte Helios¡¯s appearance as much as possible. Of course, Helios was wearing clothes right now, so Argentum had the artistic freedom to try and extrapte Helios¡¯s muscr figure underneath the clothes.

    With a few quick gusts of wind, the statue that was made out of leaves was gradually being built from the bottom up. Unsurprisingly, Helios could not help but be at a loss for words once more as he noticed that Argentum wasn¡¯t having a problem with the trial yet again. With that, the frown on his face this time around persisted for a bit longer before disappearing, a sign that Helios was bing more and more dissatisfied with this fan of his that seemed to make his difficult trials look easy.

    As for Rosalia, she could not help but look at the process in earnest before her face turned slightly red as she muttered, ¡°He even captured that¡­¡±

    Soon, she looked at Helios for a bit, gazing slightly downwards before looking back at the statue and muttering, ¡°He definitely made it a bit bigger.¡±

    ¡°Huh?¡± Of course, Helios, who was in the midst of pondering over what he could do to take Argentum down a peg or two, did not notice what Rosalia was doing.

    Eventually, Argentum was finished creating the statue using the small squares, satisfied with what he had done given the level of arts and crafts Aurus had proficiency over. In any case, it was still a sight to behold.

    Although he couldn¡¯t capture each and every detail on Helios¡¯s face or body, he was still able to capture enough details to let anyone who was looking at it know that he was basing his statue off of Helios¡¯s appearance.

    Of course, seeing that he was done, Helios stepped down from the area he was in and appeared beside Argentum, looking at the statue he had made. With just one nce, he had instantly fallen in love with the statue, using his own proficiency over the Wind element to make sure that the statue was incredibly sturdy.

    After that, he kissed the statue Argentum made on the face a few times before looking at Argentum with a hint of anger in his eyes. Not long after, he said sinctly, ¡°You passed the second trial.¡±

    He then used his proficiency over the Wind element to carry the statue made out of leaves with him back to where Rosalia was, caressing it from time to time and nting a few smooches on it here and there as he muttered, ¡°Damn you¡­although I hate you for making my trials easy¡­you have captured this divine being¡¯s likeness in its entirety.¡±

    As for Argentum, he could only utter out a sound in confusion after seeing what Helios had done to the statue he made.

    ¡°Eh?¡±

 Chapter 373: Sparring with the Tempest King

    Chapter 373: Sparring with the Tempest King

    Returning to where Rosalia was with the statue Argentum made in tow, Helios sat down on the chair he had been sitting on all this time as he cast the same magic circle under Argentum¡¯s feet that allowed him to recover his energy more quickly. Nevertheless, as he cast the magic circle on Argentum, he could not help but feel a hint of disgust and anger towards him.

    Of course, as someone who considered Argentum as his fan, he could not be more proud since he was strong enough to clear his trials. Though, as an inheritance owner and as an incredibly narcissistic being, the fact that someone could clear his trials so easily, the difficult ones at that, made him ponder whether or not he should increase the difficulty of the final trial to the highest it could go.

    Naturally, Rosalia had an idea as to what Helios was thinking, given how a slight frown was stered on his face as he looked at Argentum from time to time. Wanting to know if her hunch was correct, she then asked Helios, ¡°Let me guess. You¡¯re going to increase the difficulty of Argentum¡¯s final trial as much as possible, huh.¡±

    Surprisingly, Helios nodded with determination in response to that question as he voiced out a bit of what he was truly feeling at the moment. ¡°Indeed. This divine being cannot bear to see someone clear through my trials in such a brutish manner any longer. Argentum should be taken a peg or two, allowing him to see the true beauty of my trials, as well as the true beauty of¡­¡±

    Just as Helios was about to finish his statement, a sudden idea popped up in his mind as he talked about his trials. Not long after, a wide grin could be seen on his face as he muttered to himself, ¡°Why haven¡¯t I thought of that in the first ce? No, wait. I should say that I haven¡¯t considered of doing that in the first ce.¡±

    At this moment, he looked at Rosalia and asked, ¡°Rosalia, do you think sparring against a trial taker is going overboard?¡±

    ¡°Well, as long as you restrict your power, no. Why?¡± Rosalia soon responded, instantly getting the feeling that Helios was about to do something that went against what an inheritance owner normally did.

    With a light chuckle, Helios responded, ¡°Well, call me a pioneer in the world of inheritances, then. This divine being right here is thinking of fighting against Argentum right there at full power.¡±

    ¡°As expected,¡± Rosalia muttered after listening to Helios¡¯s words, letting out a sigh of slight disappointment soon after. A few secondster, she stared at Argentum, who was currently replenishing the energy he had consumed during the second trial with a solemn aura surrounding him.

    Although the power he had shown in the first trial was definitely enough to wipe out 10,000 clones in one go, Rosalia did not think that Argentum had the ability to spar against Helios, whose power was bolstered thanks to him being an inheritance owner. Though, just as she was thinking of persuading Helios to not do that, she remembered that Argentum was a partial owner of a few inheritances, namely Eleanor, Felix, and Melzarin¡¯s inheritances. With that in mind, she eventually decided that she would help Argentum out in the off chance Helios went crazy with his power.

    And so, a few minutes had passed with a tense atmosphere surrounding the arena. Well, to be more exact, it was only Rosalia who was feeling tense. Argentum felt nothing different whatsoever while Helios felt immense self-confidence in what he was about to do.

    At the very moment Argentum opened his eyes and stood up, the magic circle that concentrated the density of energy in the surroundings hastily disappeared, surprising Argentum since the magic circle did not disappear that quickly while he was replenishing his energy before the second trial. Nevertheless, he thought that it was just Helios dismantling the magic circle as quickly as possible since he might have taken a long time to replenish his energy this time around.

    As Argentum stood there at the center of the arena, looking at where Helios and Rosalia were sitting, he could not help but notice with his enhanced senses that Helios was sporting a slight grin on his face while looking at him. Although it looked like a normal grin from another person¡¯s point of view, to Argentum, he could not help but feel like there was a hint of a sneer in it, as well as overwhelming arrogance, self-confidence, and pride.

    At that moment, he looked at Rosalia, only to see her looking back at him. Noticing the somewhat tense expression on her face, Argentum instantly knew that thisst trial was not going to be as simple as he thought.

    ¡°For you to have passed through the Myriad Helios Formation, Imend you for your great show of power. For you to create such a beautiful Tempest Helios Statue bearing great likeness of me, Imend you for your great control over the Wind element,¡± Helios started to say out of nowhere, prompting both Rosalia and Argentum to pay attention to his words.

    ¡°Since you¡¯ve shown great results on both trials, how about youbine those two together and show this divine being right here the full extent of your abilities?¡± As he said these next words, a hint of anger and hatred could be felt from the tone of his voice as he soon disappeared from his chair like a brief gust of wind.

    Whoosh!

    Not long after, Helios appeared once more inside the arena. Though, this time, he had appeared just a few meters away from where Argentum was standing. Feeling a hint of malicious intent from the gaze Helios was giving him, Argentum could not help but scratch his head as he thought to himself, ¡®I¡¯m just doing what I¡¯m supposed to be doing when going through the trials of an inheritance. Why does it feel like he hates me just because of that?¡¯

    If only Argentum knew how correct he was when he thought of that.

    Nevertheless, he ced this thought at the back of his head as he felt that this final trial was going to be much more difficult than the first two trials he had gone through. Of course, the main reason being he had to fight against Helios himself.

    Taking in a deep breath to calm his nerves, Helios looked at Argentum, removing his hostile gaze as he said to him, ¡°This third trial has no name. Unfortunately, I am not a fan of such things, so I shall name this on the spot.¡±

    ¡°Hmm¡­how about ¡®Sparring with the Tempest King¡¯? That sounds good,¡± Helios muttered to himself not long after, somewhat satisfied with the name he had made up on the spot.

    Lightly coughing to attract the attention of both Rosalia and Argentum, Helios then announced, ¡°This third trial is called Sparring with the Tempest King. In this trial, Argentum mustnd one move on me before I couldnd ten moves on him. Of course, this divine being knows the vast difference between Argentum¡¯sbat power and mybat power, so I shall not go all out when ites to fighting.¡±

    ¡°On the other hand, when ites to defending or dodging attacks, I would not show any mercy,¡± he continued, his tone solemn.

    Listening to the mechanics of the third trial, Argentum could not help but go into a panic, wondering how he would be able tond a hit on Helios. Naturally, with Helios being incredibly proficient with the Wind element, that meant that he was quick on his feet, as well as his hands. In other words, as long as he wanted to, he could disappear in front of Argentum¡¯s field of vision at the very next second and appear right after that.

    ¡®If only I had the ability to bind him down¡­¡¯ he soon thought to himself, thinking that it was the best way tond a hit on Helios. Though, as he thought about this, he could not help but mutter, ¡°Wait a second¡­¡±

    After that, a light yet confident smile appeared on Argentum¡¯s face, prompting Rosalia to wonder what was going inside Argentum¡¯s mind at the moment for him to sport such a confident smile.

    As for Helios, he felt that the smile was mocking him, taunting him that he wouldn¡¯t be able tond ten attacks on Argentum before the other side couldnd one on him. Unsurprisingly, the anger and hatred he felt towards Argentum only increased at that thought, trying to make himself look calm on the outside as he waited for Argentum to prepare.

    After some time, Argentum took a few steps back away from Helios, slightly increasing the distance between the two of them before lightly nodding, telling Helios that they could start thest trial. Of course, Helios interpreted this action differently, thinking that Argentum was taking a few steps back because he was scared of being pummeled by him.

    With that in mind, Helios could not help but smile inwardly as he shouted soon after, ¡°The third trial¡­begins!¡±

    Woooo!

    Surprisingly, the crowd of beings made out of wind let out raucous cheers in response to that announcement, all of them supporting Helios. Then again, that was more or less a given, given how Helios controlled all of these beings while fighting against Argentum.

    Without hesitation, Helios utilized his proficiency over the Wind element as he disappeared in front of Argentum¡¯s field of vision, only to reappear a few secondster. He continued to repeat this as he said to Argentum, ¡°Hahaha! Let¡¯s see how you¡¯d be able tond a hit on me now, Argentu¡ª¡±

    ¡°[Jotunheim Domain].¡±

    Whoosh!

    Just as Helios was about to finish taunting Argentum, his words were interrupted by the sudden feeling of not being able to teleport around the arena. Instead, a feeling of being stuck in ce surrounded Helios as he felt that he could not move his feet anymore. With that, he looked down at his feet, only to notice that his feet were enveloped in multiple light yellow vines that seemed totch onto him as if it was their life¡¯s purpose.

    Naturally, a feeling of danger soon washed over him as he noticed how Argentum was hastily making his way to where he was standing with a smile on his face. Of course, he tried to use his superb control over the Wind element to get away from Argentum, but the vines seemed to be restricting his ability to do so.

    Seeing that there was no hope for him to escape, he decided to close his eyes and prepare for the worst, thinking of holding a grudge towards Argentum if he went all out with his attack. Unfortunately for him, not all things would go as he thought it would.

    Puff!

    As Helios felt a light breeze wash over his body, he soon heard Argentum let out a sigh of relief before saying, ¡°Well, I attacked you. I cleared this trial.¡±

    ¡°Eh?¡± Naturally, Helios did not know what had happened, opening his eyes only to see Argentum looking at him with a light smile. At this moment, the light yellow vines binding him in ce were no longer there, allowing him to move as freely as he wanted.

    Nevertheless, he did not even take a step back as he asked Argentum, wanting to clear his doubts, ¡°You¡­attacked me?¡±

    ¡°You want me to attack you again?¡± Argentum asked in response before sending out another light gust of wind towards Helios. ¡°There, I attacked you again.¡±

    ¡°This¡­this isn¡¯t even an attack at all¡­¡± Helios could not help but mutter as the anger he felt towards Argentum had changed. He did not feel anger towards Argentum as a whole anymore. Instead, he felt anger towards Argentum holding back at him¡­even though he thought of holding against him if he went all out.

    ¡°Are you holding back because you want to humiliate me? The great Tempest King Helios Gustav?¡± Helios asked.

    ¡°Why would I humiliate you?¡± Argentum said in response, returning to his previous fawning self as he continued, ¡°Is there any point in humiliating the great Tempest King? In fact, I held back on my attack in fear of damaging your appearance, Tempest King. If I were to sully even an inch of your skin, don¡¯t you think I would be better off dead?¡±

    ¡°This¡­¡± As he listened to Argentum¡¯s on-the-spot exnation, the anger he felt towards him instantly faded away, instead feeling care and concern from the other side towards him. His previous thoughts of wanting to take him down a peg or two had disappeared like a faint gust of wind. Well¡­Argentum did clear his three trials, so¡­

    In any case, Helios returned to his previous self, feeling immense happiness that his fan would be concerned towards his appearance, even being afraid of sullying it. With that, a smile could be seen on his face as he looked at Argentum with a gaze of slight care, saying with a bit ofughter, ¡°To think that you would even be worried of sullying this divine being¡¯s appearance. As expected of my greatest fan! Ehem. Let bygones be bygones for you, Argentum, havepleted the three trials that I, the great Tempest King, have made you go through.¡±

    ¡°With that, I shall uphold my end of the deal for I am magnanimous and kind. I shall help you out in the development of your town, as well as give you the right to request one thing from me, whatever it may be.¡±

    ¡°Much appreciated, great Tempest King,¡± Argentum said in response, making sure that his tone was that of ttery.

    As for Rosalia, who looked at the anticlimactic fight from afar, she could not help but scratch her head as she said to herself, ¡°To think that Argentum was better than me at ttering Helios.¡±

    ¡°Huh. Who knew.¡±

 Chapter 374: The Art of Persuasion

    Chapter 374: The Art of Persuasion

    In any case, with the trial now over, Rosalia had no more reason to sit by the tform where Helios watched Argentum undergo through his trials. With that, she hastily headed down to where Argentum and Helios were, the center of the mini-arena Helios made.

    Whoosh!

    By the time Rosalia had arrived where Argentum and Helios were, she could not help but look at the two of them, noticing that both of them were grinning from ear to ear with glee. Of course, such a sight would normally frighten a bystander, but Rosalia only looked at this with confusion visibly written on her face, wondering how it hade to this point.

    And so, to satiate her curiosity, she went ahead and sent a strand of energy to Argentum, asking him, ¡°What¡¯s making you two grin so widely out of nowhere?¡±

    In response, Argentum shifted his sense of vision towards Rosalia before sending a strand of energy back, saying with a slightly bitter chuckle, ¡°I think I went a bit too overboard with mypliments. Now, he thinks that I live for the sole purpose of seeing him.¡±

    ¡°And how were you able to pull that off within such a short manner of time?¡± Naturally, Rosalia could not help but have her eyes widen as she asked in response. ¡°I may have taken my time getting here, but that¡¯s still around 10 seconds, you know?¡±

    Scratching his head, Argentum then extended out his right arm as he pointed at the ground of the arena. Soon, a great mass of Wind energy particles condensed around the tip of his finger before hastily manipting itself to form an image of Helios¡¯s face. Naturally, such a sight brought pride and joy to Helios, who loved seeing images of himself whenever he could.

    Then again, Rosalia was sure that Argentum didn¡¯t do anything like that while she was making her way to where they were. With that, she asked once more, ¡°Did you really do something like that while I made my way here?¡±

    ¡°I guess you can call it a variant of it,¡± Argentum responded as the image of Helios disappeared, eliciting a small frown of sadness to appear on Helios¡¯s face. Fortunately, this frown didn¡¯tst long as Argentum gathered arge mass of Wind energy particles again before allowing them to burst and form an image of Helios that disappeared within seconds. Unsurprisingly, a smile of pride and joy appeared on Helios¡¯s face once more, though this time, he could not help but p at the show Argentum had given him.

    ¡°As expected of my biggest fan. To have someone like you who would live and die just to see the satisfaction of this divine being right here, I would like to say to the heavens that I am grateful that someone like you has appeared in my life,¡± Helios said as he pped, prompting Argentum to let out a bitter smile as he looked at Rosalia¡­or at the very least, that was what his aura made her feel.

    In response, Rosalia could not help but let out a light sigh as she shrugged her shoulders, thinking to herself, ¡®You brought this onto yourself, so don¡¯t ask me for help getting out of it.¡¯

    After saying those words of praise towards Argentum¡¯s show of proficiency towards the Wind element, which superbly pleased Helios, Helios then returned to the original topic he and Argentum were on before they entered the Heaven¡¯s Gust Inheritance. Clearing his throat to catch the attention of the two, an indifferent expression soon appeared on his face as he looked at Argentum and said, ¡°As stated before, you need to fulfill a condition of mine before I can agree to your offer. Now that you have fulfilled that condition, I, the great Tempest King, shall do whatever I can to help out in the development of your town, namely in the production and selling of the potion recipe you gave me.¡±

    ¡°Speaking of which, since you know Felix and the others, are they benefactors of your town as well?¡± he soon asked, to which Argentum nodded as he replied, ¡°Yes. Just like you, great Tempest King, they produce potions that have the same effect, though they focus on another element.¡±

    ¡°If my assumptions are correct, Eleanor¡¯s concocting the Heaven¡¯s Fire Potion and Felix is concocting the Heaven¡¯s Water Potion. Is that correct?¡± Helios asked, prompting Argentum to nod.

    ¡°Since I presume that I¡¯m the only one you¡¯ve offered the recipe to the Heaven¡¯s Wind Potion to, who¡¯s in charge of producing the Heaven¡¯s Earth Potion? Is it Rosalia or Melzarin?¡± he asked yet again.

    Surprisingly, it was Rosalia who responded this time around, saying with a hint of pride, ¡°I¡¯m the one concocting those potions, thank you very much.¡±

    Seeing how proud Rosalia was to concoct those potions, Helios shrugged his shoulders as he said, ¡°Well, go figure. Melzarin didn¡¯t really strike me as someone who could concoct a potion like that, much less do it well like Felix and the others.¡±

    Just as Helios said that¡­

    ¡°Achoo!¡± Out of nowhere, Melzarin let out a sneeze inside his Desecrated Inheritance, even though he was in his skeleton body. Nevertheless, he found it weird that he would sneeze all of a sudden, which prompted him to ask himself, ¡°Is someone talking about how great of a being I am?¡±

    In any case, Helios now knew who concocted which type of potion, allowing him to ask something else. ¡°If my assumptions are correct once again, by bing the benefactor of your town, that means we would have to share a part of the profits with you, is that correct?¡±

    ¡°That would be the case, yes. In exchange, you would be able to use the potion for yourself whenever you want and even earn money in the process,¡± Argentum responded, forgetting to tter Helios in the process.

    Fortunately, Helios ignored that as his mind was currently focused on business. Rubbing his chin as he pondered over something, he then asked Argentum, ¡°How much of the profits are they giving you?¡±

    ¡°Half of it,¡± Argentum sinctly replied.

    ¡°In that case, I¡¯ll give you 30% of the profits I obtained from selling the Heaven¡¯s Wind Potion,¡± Helios said not long after with a tone of confidence and determination. Of course, Argentum wasn¡¯t expecting Helios to show such an expression. It was as if he was saying to Argentum that his 30% was better than the others¡¯ 50% cut.

    Surprisingly, Rosalia backed up Helios¡¯s confidence as she said to Argentum, ¡°Don¡¯t underestimate this cut, Argentum. Even though it¡¯s only around half of our share, you¡¯d still obtain more than double the amount of gold coins than you would from one of us.¡±

    ¡°Is he really that good in marketing?¡± Argentum could not help but find it peculiar, wondering how such a narcissistic man was great in that area.

    As for Helios, he puffed his chest as he responded with pride, ¡°But of course. I, the Tempest King, am the best when ites to marketing items and services!¡±

    Soon, this pride disappeared as he continued, ¡°Also, if you think about it, how would I be able to afford the massive amounts of paintings, statues, and carpets with my image on it if I did not have methods to earn a lot of money? I may be the great Tempest King, but money is a far greater being than me.¡±

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡± As he listened to Helios¡¯s words, he could not help but think up of an idea that would allow him to obtain more gold from the selling of the potions, though he wasn¡¯t sure if the others would like it.

    Nevertheless, he still brought it up since it would allow him to be more free when it came to projects. With that, he looked at Rosalia for a bit before asking Helios, ¡°Although I¡¯m not sure if this is too much to ask of you, is it possible for you to also be responsible for selling half of the potions Felix and the others concoct?¡±

    Wanting to assure that Helios would ept his proposal, he then continued, ¡°Of course, I¡¯m sure that someone like you, the great Tempest King, would be able to handle this without a problem for you are powerful yet kind at the same time, am I not wrong?¡±

    Unsurprisingly, a grin appeared on Helios¡¯s face as he heard those words, responding with a cackle as he replied, ¡°As expected of my biggest fan! Indeed, it would not be a problem for me to sell half of their produced items.¡±

    ¡°Though, I¡¯ll have to follow the cut they gave you since I, the great Tempest King, won¡¯t do something without gaining something in exchange. The remaining 50% from selling their products would go towards me. Also, make sure that they¡¯re fine with distributing part of their produced items to me from time to time,¡± he continued, a solemn expression reced his previous proud grin.

    With that, Argentum looked at Rosalia, to which thetter shrugged her shoulders and responded, ¡°Well, I don¡¯t really have a problem with sending some of the Heaven¡¯s Earth Potions I make to Helios from time to time. As for Felix and Eleanor, you¡¯ll have to ask them about that. Though, I don¡¯t think they would have any reason to refuse it.¡±

    ¡°Alright, then. Once we leave the inheritance, I¡¯ll make sure to ask Felix and Eleanor about this,¡± Argentum said as he nodded in response to her words.

    ¡°In any case, that matter has been settled for the most part,¡± Helios said before squinting his eyes as he gave off a serious aura. ¡°Now, for the other part.¡±

    ¡°As I¡¯ve mentioned before, since you have gone through my three trials, which only takers of my inheritance would normally go through, you have one chance to request anything from me, whatever it may be. May it be a rare item, or a statue bearing great likeness to my figure and appearance, I will try and fulfill it as I am a magnanimous and benevolent being.¡±

    Hearing those words, Argentum could not help but go silent as he pondered over what he should request to Helios. Of course, in actuality, he already had an idea as to what he should request from him. Just like what he had obtained from Eleanor, Felix, and Melzarin, it was no surprise that he was going to use this chance to request anything from Helios to be a partial owner of the Heaven¡¯s Gust Inheritance.

    From the size and the aura the inheritance let off alone, it wouldn¡¯t be surprising if it was arge-sized inheritance, the same level as Melzarin¡¯s inheritance. With that, even a small share over the inheritance would be enough for him to undergo a tremendous boost in power, increasing hisbat prowess to a level beyond what he could currently achieve.

    After pondering in silence for a bit as a formality, Argentum then looked at Helios with an aura of determination surrounding him as he soon said to him, ¡°I would like to use this one chance of mine to request bing a partial owner of your Heaven¡¯s Gust Inheritance.¡±

    ¡°Declined.¡± Unsurprisingly, Helios rejected the request at the very instant Argentum was finished talking. ¡°Do you know how long this divine being had taken in order for the Heaven¡¯s Gust Inheritance to reach its current size? An incredibly long time, I can tell you that.¡±

    He then continued, ¡°Although you are my biggest fan, I¡¯m afraid I cannot ept this request of yours. The Heaven¡¯s Gust Inheritance is arge-sized inheritance, which means that even giving away a small share of it would impact mybat power quite a lot. In fact, even sharing something as low as 5% to someone like you would reduce my capabilities by 30%.¡±

    As he listened to Helios¡¯s words, Argentum was not dismayed by that. In fact, he felt quite the opposite as he could not help but inwardly grin, thinking that he could use that part of Helios¡¯s personality to his advantage.

    ¡°Really? Well, that¡¯s too bad, I guess,¡± Argentum said not long after in a slightly mncholic tone as he gave off the feeling that Helios would regret not epting it as he continued, ¡°If you had epted, I wouldn¡¯t have minded creating a statue bearing your likeness like what I did back then in the second trial, but at greater quality and size. Perhaps, its height would have even reached the ceiling of this room we¡¯re in.¡±

    Hearing how Argentum was nning to make a statue of him if he had epted the request, Helios could not help but feel a pang of regret, though he restrained himself since he knew that this choice would affect him. Unfortunately, he let his narcissistic side get the better of him as Argentum continued to talk.

    ¡°Well, I also wouldn¡¯t have minded cing this statue at¡­let¡¯s say the center of the town I¡¯m managing. Perhaps turning it into a centralndmark that people would flock to and admire every time they pass it wouldn¡¯t be impossible as well.¡±

    Argentum then let out a sigh as he said, ¡°Unfortunately, the great Tempest King has declined my request, so I have no choice but to scrap this idea¡ª¡±

    ¡°W-wait a minute, Argentum. It¡¯s not like there¡¯s no chance for us toe to apromise, right?¡± Just as Argentum had expected, Helios would take his bait, hook, line, and sinker.

    Once again, ttery works wonders.

 Chapter 375: Returning to the Flame Spirit Inheritance

    Chapter 375: Returning to the me Spirit Inheritance

    Seeing as how Helios had taken his bait, Argentum could not help but grin widely. Fortunately, he swiftly concealed this grin as he made sure to give off the feeling that he was not happy because he had persuaded Helios to give him a cut of the ownership, but instead feel happy that Helios was willingly giving away part of his ownership to him.

    Of course, to a bystander, what was actually going on could be seen in in sight.

    Nevertheless, Helios had fallen into the illusion that Argentum was trying to set up, thinking to himself that he was a great person for being so magnanimous that he would give his greatest fan a share over the ownership of the Heaven¡¯s Gust Inheritance. Taking a few deep breaths, he then looked at Argentum with a solemn expression as he said, ¡°Although I would be willing to give you a part of the ownership over my inheritance, this divine being right here has the right to decline the share you give if it goes beyond my boundaries.¡±

    As he said this, he could not help but feel regret since he allowed his narcissistic side to reign over his rationality. Though, since he had already said it, he, the great Tempest King, would not go back on his words¡­even if he was persuaded to say it.

    Naturally, Argentum wanted to obtain as much of a share from Helios¡¯s inheritance as possible. With that, he went all out with his numbers, asking Helios, ¡°Would the great Tempest King be willing to give me authority over half of the inheritance?¡±

    ¡°Declined.¡± Unsurprisingly, Helios declined the first quote Argentum gave him. If half of his authority over the inheritance was given to Argentum, hisbat power wouldn¡¯t just stop at being reduced by half.

    ¡°How about 40%?¡± Of course, Argentum was going to make sure that he systematically went down through the various percentages.

    ¡°Declined.¡±

    ¡°35%?¡±

    ¡°Declined.¡±

    ¡°Would the great and magnanimous Tempest King be willing to settle on 30%?¡±

    ¡°I appreciate thepliment, but declined.¡±

    ¡°25%?¡±

    ¡°Still declined.¡±

    ¡°How about 20%?¡±

    ¡°Declined.¡±

    ¡°Will Helios Gustav, the dashing yet charitable Tempest King that could wield all of the wind in the world, be magnanimous to give this lowly being here a 15% share over the inheritance?¡±

    ¡°As I¡¯ve stated before, I appreciate thepliment, but I would still decline.¡±

    ¡°Would you be willing to settle on 10%?¡± At this moment, Argentum felt like giving up. Fortunately, a look of contemtion had appeared on Helios¡¯s face this time around when he heard the percentage that was given to him. Seeing as how he was close to epting the percentage, Argentum hastily gave him a hopeful look while radiating an aura that screamed ¡®Please ept, please ept, please ept¡­!¡¯

    Eventually, a light smile appeared on Helios¡¯s face as he replied, ¡°Alright, although my capabilities would be reduced by around 50%, it wouldn¡¯t really affect that much, considering that I am the strongest being out there. Hahaha!¡±

    ¡°Indeed, indeed! Such is the great Tempest King. Even a small percentage of your power would be equivalent to the power of many.¡± Unsurprisingly, Argentum kept up his bootlicking, making sure that Helios would not go back on his words.

    As for Rosalia, who was looking at the two of them all this time by the side, could not help but think to herself, ¡®Am I watching some sort of y where the joke is there¡¯s no joke?¡¯

    Leaving her thoughts aside, Helios could not help but beam in delight as he heard Argentum¡¯s words, letting out a loud cackle as he said in response, ¡°And this is why you are my biggest fan!¡±

    Snap!

    Snapping his fingers, a green magic circle appeared between the two a few secondster, giving off the feeling that it could be see through everything. Naturally, Argentum looked at the circle with interest as he wondered why Helios would conjure a magic circle out of nowhere, only to recall that this was just his way of assuring that Argentum wouldn¡¯t lose his share of the inheritance. To the main inheritance owner, one would experience a loss inbat power far greater than just sharing the inheritance with another person if the co-owner died.

    As a beam of green light shot out of the magic circle, stopping at Argentum¡¯s chest, Helios looked at him with a solemn expression and asked, ¡°Will you, Argentum, swear that you would not let your share over the inheritance be lost?¡±

    ¡°I swear by my life that I would not lose this share even if I die,¡± Argentum replied as he adjusted his response to match Helios¡¯s wavelength, to which Helios lightly nodded in satisfaction. Soon after, a beam of green light shot out of the other side of the magic circle, attaching itself to Helios. Eventually, the green magic circle shattered, as well as the green beams of light as both Argentum and Helios felt that there was now a connection between the two of them.

    Seeing as how Argentum did not decline forming a connection between the two of them, Helios became more at ease and felt that he could trust Argentum a bit more. Letting out a light sigh of relief, he then went ahead and waved his right hand in the air as a few strands of Wind energy particles soon appeared on his fingertips. After that, he shot those strands of Wind energy particles towards Argentum as he told him, ¡°Absorb it.¡±

    Following Helios¡¯s words, Argentum absorbed the strands of Wind energy particles that were sent towards him, only to feel that hisbat strength had increased once again. Unsurprisingly, he had obtained a notification from the system regarding this increase inbat strength.

    Ding!

    ¡®You have obtained the passive skill [Heaven¡¯s Gust Inheritance: Partial Ownership].¡¯

    As he felt his newfound strength course throughout his body, he could not help but think that the boost he had obtained from Helios was somewhat greater than the boost he had obtained from Melzarin¡¯s inheritance, even though the cut he had obtained was only half of what Melzarin gave him.

    ¡®Does that mean Helios¡¯s inheritance is already at the peak ofrge-sized inheritances?¡¯ Argentum could not help but think, eventually cing these thoughts at the back of his head as he thought that there was no point in thinking about it.

    With his goal aftering to the Heaven¡¯s Gust Inheritance now achieved, as well as obtaining a bit extra out of it, Argentum decided to head back to the me Spirit Inheritance to talk with Felix and Eleanor about distributing a part of their Heaven¡¯s Element potions to Helios.

    With that, he looked at Rosalia and lightly nodded, to which Rosalia looked back at Argentum and nodded as well in response. Soon after, both of them looked at Helios as Rosalia started to speak, telling Helios, ¡°Well, we¡¯ve obtained all of what we need from you, Helios. We apologize for disturbing your beauty sleep, but I still want to thank you for helping Argentum out. Anyways, we shall now take our leave.¡±

    Just as they were about to turn around and head out of the inheritance, Helios stopped them as he asked them, ¡°Where are you going to head after this?¡±

    This time, Argentum was the one to answer his question, responding, ¡°The me Spirit Inheritance. We did talk about how Felix and Eleanor would have to distribute some of their potions to you, so we¡¯re going to do that as soon as we leave your inheritance.¡±

    ¡°me Spirit Inheritance? Eleanor¡¯s inheritance?¡± Helios muttered in response, only to go silent as the two were left in slight confusion. Soon after, he snapped his fingers, changing the sleepwear he was wearing into a set of casual outdoor clothes that would definitely make him stand out amongst the masses.

    ¡°Since I haven¡¯t gone out in a while to meet up with the others, how about I, the great Tempest King, be magnanimous once more and apany you two to where Eleanor is?¡± Helios said after he changed his clothes, prompting Rosalia and Argentum to look at each other in silence for a while.

    ¡°Sure, why not.¡± Rosalia shrugged her shoulders, waiting to see what response Argentum would give, only to see that he shrugged his shoulders as well, telling her non-verbally that he did not care if he came along or not. He was now a benefactor of Verdant Breeze Town, after all.

    And with that, the three of them left the Heaven¡¯s Gust Inheritance as a group. At the very moment they appeared at the entrance of the inheritance, Helios then went ahead and enveloped all of them into a cocoon of Wind energy particles as they quickly made their way to where the me Spirit Inheritance was located.

    ¡­

    By the time they had arrived at the entrance of the me Spirit Inheritance, the moon was about halfway to setting. With that, one could already guess as to how quick Argentum had cleared the three trials that Helios had given him for no reason.

    As the cocoon of Wind energy particles surrounding the three of them gradually dissipated, Argentum went ahead and circted a bit of his energy to form a connection with Eleanor. In the meantime, he could not help but recall how quickly they traveled through the continent with Helios¡¯s mastery over the Wind element.

    Although in terms of speed, Aurus¡¯s ability to teleport was still better in his mind, Argentum had an urge to ask Helios about his movement skill once he had finished talking with Felix and Eleanor about the distribution of Heaven¡¯s Element potions.

    ¡°Oh, Argentum! You¡¯re already back?¡± It did not take long for Eleanor to respond to Argentum¡¯s request to form a connection, initiating the conversation with a question.

    ¡°Well, it took a while to convince Helios to ept, but we still did it,¡± Argentum said in response, to which Eleanor said, ¡°That¡¯s great!¡±

    ¡°I suppose you want me to have you and Rosalia enter the inheritance, right? Give me a second,¡± she said not long after, only to go silent for a bit before asking Argentum, ¡°Er¡­from what I could sense with my energy, there¡¯s another being with you two. Is that¡­?¡±

    ¡°The man himself.¡± Argentum said in response, letting out a sigh soon after.

    ¡°¡­could you just give a minute?¡± Eleanor said, to which Argentum responded that he did not mind. Fortunately, that one minute only took about 30 seconds or so as Argentum and the others were soon transported into the insides of the me Spirit Inheritance.

    Whoosh!

    As the three of them had appeared the center of Eleanor¡¯s room, what Argentum and the others could see at first nce was Felix and Eleanor sitting on a pair of chairs in a menacing fashion. Well, to be more exact, only Eleanor was radiating a menacing aura. Felix, on the other hand, just looked at the three of them with a light smile¡­though an awkward aura could be perceived from him.

    ¡°How have you been, Helios?¡± Felix asked, to which Helios responded with a light nod, ¡°I¡¯ve been well, Felix. It¡¯s nice meeting you again.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s nice to meet you again as well,¡± Felix said in response before going silent. With that conversation now done, Helios then redirected his gaze towards Eleanor, who was looking at him with a menacing gaze.

    At this point, Rosalia and Argentum had already distanced themselves from Helios as they could not help but feel that Eleanor¡¯s menacing aura might turn tangible at any moment.

    As for Helios, after sensing that menacing aura, he could not help but let out a sigh and ask Eleanor, ¡°Are you still mad at me because of that fight from back then? If so, I¡¯d suggest you don¡¯t think about it anymore. There¡¯s no point fighting against each other again.¡±

    ¡°Oh, that¡¯s not what I¡¯m thinking about,¡± Eleanor said in response, her tone cold.

    ¡°Then, what are you thinking about?¡± Helios, naturally, was curious.

    ¡°Well¡­¡± As she said this, a hint of rage could be heard from her tone as she continued, ¡°Can you tell us why you decided only now to meet up with us even though we¡¯ve invited you multiple times before?¡±

    ¡°Er¡­¡± Surprisingly, Helios let out a bit of cold sweat from that question, prompting Felix, Rosalia, and even Argentum to look at the two with curiosity, wondering if there was something going on between the two of them that they did not know.

    ¡®Unlike the thing with Melzarin, it seems this one has more substance,¡¯ Argentum could not help but think as he looked at the current situation.

    Unfortunately for the three of them, Helios did not delve into it as he perfunctorily said, ¡°I was just¡­busy¡­with matters.¡±

    Seeing as how Helios did not delve into their past, Eleanor could not help but let out a light sigh as she finally looked at Argentum and asked, ¡°So, I presume Helios is here because of something, right?¡±

    ¡°Ah.¡± Hearing his name being called, Argentum finally recalled why he had returned to the me Spirit Inheritance.

    Nodding, he replied, ¡°Although Helios came along with us two for no reason, he does have an involvement in the topic I¡¯m going to talk about.¡±

    ¡°Let¡¯s talk about the distribution of Heaven¡¯s Element potions.¡±

 Chapter 376: Celebration

    Chapter 376: Celebration

    Maerr-viki Continent, Seraph Kingdom.

    A week has passed since the Ninth Prince and the First Prince have met up with another to talk about forming an alliance between the two of them regarding the war for the throne, only for them to end up forming a mutual agreement. Naturally, an event like this would have spread throughout the whole kingdom like a firestorm. Though surprisingly, it didn¡¯t.

    Well, the reason why such an event like this didn¡¯t spread throughout the kingdom was due to the fact that both parties had agreed to use all of their control over information to make sure this piece of news was not spread, allowing both sides to focus on their own things in peace.

    At the moment, Vanadir and the others were currently in the royal training grounds, practicing the attack that they were going to use in the war for the throne. Unsurprisingly, with all of them being more or less skilled inbat, the only type of group attack that they were practicing at this point were those that utilized the powers of all five of them¡­which Vanadir called the Vanadir Coalition Supreme Arts.

    Looking at his team members with a smile, the Ninth Prince said to them, ¡°Since we¡¯ve already mastered the group attack that focuses on me as the one dealing the final blow, how about we try and create a group attack wherein the focus is dealing the most damage as possible?¡±

    With a look of confusion, Valentia asked the Ninth Prince in response, ¡°Wouldn¡¯t that attack be the one where you¡¯re the focus?¡±

    Shaking his head, Vanadir replied, ¡°Nope, I¡¯m still a Rank 3 ss wielder. If I were at Rank 4, then that might have been the case.¡±

    ¡°In any case, only two people in this team of ours could fit the role of dealing the most damage,¡± he continued before pointing at Valentia and Dane. ¡°That would be you two.¡±

    In an instant, Valentia shook her head as she replied, ¡°Although I can deal a lot of damage, I can only do so when I amass a lot of blood.¡± With that, she pointed at Dane and said, ¡°Dane would be the best fit for this.¡±

    Hearing this, Dane waved his hands as he let out a light chuckle, saying, ¡°You must be jesting, Lady Valentia. Surely your firepower is greater than mine when ites to battles.¡±

    ¡°No, Dane. Valentia does make a point here,¡± Vanadir could not help but say after pondering over it for a while. ¡°If you consider her being put in a fight against a hundred people, then yes, her might would be greater than yours since she could amass a lot of blood thanks to her ss. But in the war for the throne, we¡¯re only up against teams of ten at the very most. She wouldn¡¯t be able to exhibit her greatest power.¡±

    ¡°As for you, you aren¡¯t limited by the number of enemies. Even though it might seem that your damage output is consistent, it¡¯s the best one in our team in this case,¡± he concluded. ¡°With that, let¡¯s focus on creating a group attack where you¡¯re the focus, Dane.¡±

    Seeing as most of them were looking at him with a gaze of hope, Dane eventually gave in as he awkwardly smiled. ¡°Alright then. Though, please do not have high expectations of me.¡±

    And with that, the five of them sat in a circle as they talked about possible spell and skillbinations they could use to maximize the amount of damage they could deal on the opposing side. Unsurprisingly, they were eager to talk about their skills and spells, wanting to contribute a lot to the birth of the next group attack. Though, while most of them were eager to do so, one of them seemed to be in a daze, thinking about something else.

    ¡°Hmm? Is there something bothering you, Erea?¡± Vanadir was the first one to ask, noticing that Erea had be unusually silent as ofte, recalling how she was quite active in participating in previous talks.

    Hearing her name being called, Erea seemed to have snapped back to reality as she awkwardly smiled and shook her head. She then replied, ¡°Ah, it¡¯s nothing, Prince Vanadir. I was just thinking about something else.¡±

    ¡°I see. Well, let¡¯s continue.¡± Although Vanadir had a feeling that something was off about Erea today, since Erea did not bring it up, he had no choice but to continue with the conversation. Naturally, the others were worried about what was happening with Erea, with Valentia and Griselle being even more so. Giving each other a nod soon after, the two of them silently made a vow to themselves that they would find out what was going on with Erea.

    Eventually, the five of them were finished with their conversation, with all of them sporting light grins at the possible prowess of this group move they had just made, save for Erea.

    ¡°Alright, everyone! Let¡¯s start!¡± Vanadir shouted as he nodded at Dane. In response, Dane slowly moved forward as a ball of mana started to manifest above his right hand. Soon after, hepressed this ball of mana beforeyering more mana on top of it¡­only topress it once more.

    As he was doing this, the Ninth Prince then looked at the others and shouted, ¡°Everyone! Buff Vanadir!¡±

    ¡°2nd Circle! Boiling Blood!¡±

    ¡°3rd Circle! Reaper of Life!¡±

    ¡°3rd Circle! Mana Blood Conversion!¡± Without hesitation, Valentia was the one to go first, casting all of the enhancement spells she had on her arsenal to Dane, increasing the efficacy and might behind the mana he had. After that, she took in a deep breath as a slightly malevolent aura surrounded her. With that, she pointed one of her fingers towards Dane before shouting, ¡°4th Circle! Bloodden Might!¡±

    Whoosh!

    As the malevolent aura surrounding Valentia was shot out of her finger, this aura was soon absorbed by Dane, increasing the pressure he exuded by multiple folds as the ball of mana gained a slight tint of crimson.

    ¡°Griselle, you¡¯re next!¡± Valentia said to Griselle behind her, who nodded in response as she sent out multiple strands of light in one go.

    ¡°3rd Circle! Titan Vessel!¡±

    ¡°3rd Circle! Titan Might!¡±

    ¡°3rd Circle! Titan Mind!¡±

    ¡°2nd Circle! Skill Reflection!¡±

    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!

    Although Griselle was well-known in the kingdom as someone who could defend an area on her own, she still had some spells hidden that she rarely used, namely spells that enhanced herbat capabilities. Seeing as how it was being used on Dane¡¯s move, Vanadir could not help but be jealous as he asked her, ¡°Why didn¡¯t you use it on my move?¡±

    ¡°You didn¡¯t ask!¡± Griselle said in response just as the final strand of light from her had been absorbed by Dane. At this point, the pressure Dane was exuding was on par with the pressure Vanadir exuded while he executed his group attack. Naturally, with Valentia and Griselle done, Erea was the one up next, only to still be in a daze until she was reminded by Valentia.

    With a slight jolt and a light nod, she then cast the spells she had previously cast on Vanadir, imbuing the power of fire and water into the ball of mana Dane wielded. Although it did not seem like much, Dane knew for a fact that it had increased the power behind the ball of mana he wielded by a certain amount.

    ¡°Since those three are done, it¡¯s time for me to make my move,¡± Vanadir said with a grin as he tightly gripped on his de. ¡°Ignition Mode!¡±

    ¡°[Magnus Tempestria: Dragon¡¯s Fang]!¡±

    Whoosh!

    As the de transformed into arger de made out of mana, Vanadir then shed out at the sword as a de made out of green light made its way to the ball.

    ¡°[Wind Dragon¡¯s Four Forms: Wind Dragon¡¯s w]!¡±

    Swoosh!

    Without any hups, the energy imbued in the attack was soon absorbed by the ball of mana as the crimson red ball now had hints of dark red, blue, and green strands surrounding it. Seeing this, Dane went ahead and imbued into it the element of Earth, allowing the first three elements to show their greatest properties before hepressed it even further.

    Feeling that he hadpressed the ball of mana to its limits, Dane then went ahead and threw it towards the ground. ¡°Hah!¡±

    Bang!

    At the very moment the ball of mana had collided with the ground, multiple cracks started to spread throughout the training ground as the surroundingnd quaked for quite some time due to the might of the attack. In fact, a few of the maids and guards in the pce were quite shaken by the quaking, wondering if it was the end of the world.

    Fortunately, the quaking did notst for long as the energy in the ball of mana eventually dissipated. Nevertheless, a level of might far greater than the attack Vanadir did was achieved, eliciting smiles to appear on the faces of Vanadir and the others. Even Erea could not help but be snapped back to reality from the attack, only to excuse herself after the attack had lost its energy.

    Seeing this, Valentia and Griselle went ahead and followed Erea to ask her what was going on in her mind while Vanadir could not help but let out a peal ofughter from the might of the attack. pping Dane on the shoulder from joy, Vanadir then told him, ¡°I knew you could do it! To hell with your talk about low expectations!¡±

    In response, Dane awkwardly smiled as he replied, ¡°As long as I¡¯ve achieved the needs of Your Highness.¡±

    After talking about what they could improve about the group attack a bit more, Valentia and Griselle appeared in front of the two, prompting Vanadir to put on a slightly solemn expression as he asked them, ¡°So, what¡¯s wrong with Erea?¡±

    ¡°Well, how do I go about this?¡± Surprisingly, Griselle was the one to reply, scratching her head beforeing up with a decent answer. ¡°In short, it¡¯s Erea¡¯s birthday today, and she doesn¡¯t know how to spend it.¡±

    ¡°Hmm? Shouldn¡¯t she spend it with her family if that¡¯s the case?¡± Vanadir could not help but ask in response, to which Valentia shrugged her shoulders as she replied, ¡°That¡¯s the problem. She can¡¯t recall who her family is.¡±

    ¡°Isn¡¯t there a n with the surname Magimillia?¡± Vanadir asked once more, though this time, he asked this question to Dane. After a moment of silence, Dane shook his head as he replied, ¡°ording to the informationworks you¡¯ve given me control over, Your Highness, a n with the surname Magimillia does not exist in our Seraph Kingdom.¡±

    ¡°She knows it¡¯s her birthday today, and she doesn¡¯t know her family? I can¡¯t help but feel pity for her,¡± Valentia could not help but say, putting a slightly sad expression as she could not help but empathize with Erea. Soon after, Griselle could not help but feel the same way, only for the two of them to start tearing up as they thought about the possible things that were going on inside Erea¡¯s mind at the moment.

    As for Vanadir and Dane, they went silent for a moment as they looked at each other, wondering what they could do to help out. Eventually, the two of them seemed to have thought up of the same thing as they looked at each other with a gaze of realization.

    ¡°Are you thinking what I¡¯m thinking, Dane?¡± Vanadir asked Dane, to which Valentia and Griselle could not help but look at.

    With a light grin on his face, Dane responded, ¡°I wouldn¡¯t be surprised if you¡¯ve read my thoughts, Your Highness.¡±

    ¡°What¡¯s going on with you two?¡± Valentia could not help but ask, which only made the two grin even wider as they knew their thoughts were definitely the same.

    ¡°Ah, I get it!¡± After some time, Griselle let outughter as she finally understood what was going on in the minds of the two. With knowing nods, the three looked at each other as it seemed that they were nning something in secret.

    At this point, only Valentia was clueless, making her go into a slight rage as she said, ¡°Oh,e on! Just spit it out and tell me what it is already!¡±

    With grins on their faces, Vanadir, Dane, and Griselle looked at each other before telling Valentia in unison, ¡°We¡¯re going to hold a birthday party for Erea!¡±

    ¡°¡­why didn¡¯t you tell me that in the first ce?!¡± Naturally, after knowing how simple the answer was, Valentia could not help but be mad at the three, wondering why they had kept her in the dark for so long. Laughing the anger off, Vanadir then looked at Dane, who nodded as a rift appeared above the heads of the two girls.

    Clink! Clink!

    Soon, small bags filled to the brim with gold coins appeared from the rift, which soon dropped onto the palms of the two. With a light grin, Vanadir then told the two, ¡°We¡¯re not well-versed on how a birthday party for a girl her age should be celebrated, so we¡¯ve decided that you two shall be in charge of the decor and food. As for everything else, leave that up to us.¡±

    Seeing as how they had be in charge of something important for Erea, Valentia and Griselle instantly tightened their grips over the small bags as they nodded in response before leaving only Vanadir and Dane in the training grounds.

    With only them being in the royal training grounds, Vanadir was about to say something to Dane regarding Erea¡¯s birthday party, only for the expression on Dane¡¯s face to take a turn for the worse.

    Naturally, Vanadir had an inkling that the news Dane received from the informationwork was anything but good. But when he heard the words that came out of Dane¡¯s mouth, only seething anger could be seen on his face.

    ¡°Your Highness¡­¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ve obtained word that the Third Prince has met up with an envoy from the Valiharsus Kingdom.¡±

    ¡°¡­¡±

    ¡°¡­that bastard!¡±

 Chapter 377: Progress on Two Paths

    Chapter 377: Progress on Two Paths

    ¡°The Heaven¡¯s Element potions? Is there a problem with them?¡± Just as Argentum mentioned that Helios hade here because of the Heaven¡¯s Element potions, Felix was the first one to voice out his worries. Well, it didn¡¯te too much of a surprise since he was an alchemist, just like Helios. With that, he had a feeling that Helios hade here since he had probably found a way to improve the efficacy of the Heaven¡¯s Element potions even further.

    Hearing Felix¡¯s question, Argentum shook his head as he rified the doubts Felix and Eleanor had in their minds, telling them, ¡°No, there¡¯s no problem with them at all.¡±

    He then pointed at Felix as he continued, ¡°In fact, even if there was a problem with the potions themselves, either you or Helios would have told me about it already.¡±

    ¡°The reason why Helios came here was because of, as I¡¯ve said before, the distribution of the Heaven¡¯s Element potions,¡± Argentum said as he returned to the original topic. ¡°Just like you, Eleanor, and Rosalia, Helios is now a benefactor of Verdant Breeze Town, in charge of selling Heaven¡¯s Wind Potions.¡±

    ¡°But just as me and Rosalia were about to leave his inheritance, Helios offered to sell some of the potions you three concocted in order to obtain more funds for the development of the town. With that, I brought him here to check and see if there would be any problems with that.¡±

    Listening to Argentum¡¯s words, both Felix and Eleanor looked at each other with slightly solemn auras surrounding them, seemingly thinking about the suggestion Argentum gave them. They then looked at Rosalia, who seemed to have epted the suggestion already. Then again, both of them knew that Rosalia was quite close to Helios, so she didn¡¯t have too much of a problem letting Helios sell a portion of the potions she concocted.

    After going silent for a bit, Eleanor gestured to Felix to ask more about the suggestion, to which Felix lightly sighed before asking Helios, ¡°Say, Helios. How much of the potions we sell would we be giving to you?¡±

    ¡°Half of the potions you guys currently sell. Any less than that, and I wouldn¡¯t bear to call myself the business-savvy Tempest King,¡± Helios replied with an air of slight arrogance around him.

    Hearing Helios¡¯s words, Argentum could not help but send a strand of energy to Rosalia, privately asking her, ¡°Although I didn¡¯t think it was a problem while we were in the inheritance, isn¡¯t selling half of Felix and Eleanor¡¯s potions basically making him sell twice as much potions as any of you would normally sell?¡±

    In response, Rosalia replied to Argentum¡¯s question with a shrug. ¡°Remember that he¡¯s narcissistic.¡±

    Being reminded of that once more, Argentum knowingly nodded before looking back at Felix and Eleanor, who were still pondering over what they should do regarding the distribution of Heaven¡¯s Element potions.

    ¡°Is there any reason as to why you should be selling a portion of the potions we create? Surely we can sell them on our own, no?¡± This time, it was Eleanor¡¯s turn to ask.

    ¡°Yes, but would you obtain the same level of profits as I, the great profiteer Tempest King, can achieve?¡± Helios replied, still with an air of arrogance surrounding him.

    ¡°You¡­¡± Although Eleanor wanted to punch Helios in the head right there and then, she controlled herself as she took in a few deep breaths. Sure, he may be arrogant and overly narcissistic, but in the world of business, he was definitely top-tier.

    Seeing as Helios wouldn¡¯t take no for an answer, Felix decided to just go with the flow, inwardly epting the proposition. Nevertheless, he asked, ¡°Where would the profits of the potions we give you go?¡±

    ¡°Towards the development of the town,¡± Argentum was the one to reply this time. ¡°Of course, to make his effort worthwhile, we¡¯ve decided earlier that part of the profits thate from the selling of your potions would go to him.¡±

    ¡°I have no problems with that.¡± With his doubts rified, Felix decided to go ahead with it as he shrugged his shoulders, leaving Eleanor as the only one who hasn¡¯t made a decision yet. Though, being the only one to not make a decision, it gave her some pressure as to whether or not she should ept it.

    Fortunately, Eleanor decided to do the same thing, shrugging her shoulders as she let out a sigh, warning Helios, ¡°If you make less than what I could achieve with my Heaven¡¯s Fire potions, then don¡¯t be surprised if I decide to stop giving you my share.¡±

    ¡°I wouldn¡¯t be called the business-savvy Tempest King for no¡ª¡± Just as Helios was about to respond to Eleanor¡¯s words with yet another of his narcissistic lines, Argentum stopped him just in time as he said, ¡°And with that, this topic is now over.¡±

    ¡°Felix, Rosalia, Helios, you guys can head back to your inheritances now,¡± he said soon after, to which Felix and Rosalia nodded in response as they bade farewell sometimeter. With that, only Eleanor and Helios were the only inheritance owners left inside the me Spirit Inheritance, which left Argentum somewhat confused.

    At this moment, he could not help but remember their earlier interaction, wondering to himself, ¡®Could it be that¡­?¡¯

    Sadly, his thoughts did not be a reality as Eleanor told the two of them, ¡°Could you leave the inheritance? I have something to do.¡±

    Sensing the slight hint of annoyance in her tone, Argentum nodded as he replied, ¡°Alright then.¡±

    After that, he looked at Helios and asked, ¡°Shouldn¡¯t you be heading back to the Heaven¡¯s Gust Inheritance, Tempest King?¡±

    Surprisingly, Helios shook his head in response as he told him, ¡°It¡¯s been a while since Ist left the Heaven¡¯s Gust Inheritance. It has probably been a couple of centuries since then.¡±

    ¡°In any case, I¡¯m quite curious as to what kind of town you own would have so much sway on inheritance owners like me, the great Tempest King.¡±

    ¡°So, you want me to give you a tour of the town?¡± Argentum asked, to which Helios nonchntly replied, ¡°But of course. I need to know where this divine being¡¯s profits are being invested towards.¡±

    Hearing that, Argentum just shrugged his shoulders as he and Helios bade farewell to Eleanor. After exiting the me Spirit Inheritance, Helios then wrapped both him and Argentum in a cocoon of Wind energy particles as Argentum pointed the direction of Verdant Breeze Town to him.

    Just as it took only a couple of hours for Helios, Rosalia, and Argentum to reach the me Spirit Inheritance, it took an even shorter time for the two of them to arrive at the entrance of Verdant Breeze Town, whose streets were surprisingly bright even at this time of the night.

    Hastily activating [False Visage of the Animate] as they slowly descended in front of the town¡¯s gates, Argentum could not help but mutter, ¡°Why are the streets so brightly lit at this time?¡±

    ¡°Oh! It¡¯s the leader!¡± Just as he could ponder over the matter even further, one of the town¡¯s guards patrolling over the town¡¯s walls noticed Argentum and Helios standing there. Without hesitation, that guard called the attention of the other town guards to let Argentum and Helios in.

    Of course, they were curious as to who Helios was. But since Argentum seemed to be in a pensive state, they decided to rein in their curiosities.

    Then again, the same couldn¡¯t be said for Argentum, who was left at a loss for words after he noticed that quite a certain amount of people in town were busily moving through the streets, with some holding papers, some holding materials, and some even holding tools.

    ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡± Argentum could not help but ask the town guard that allowed them to enter. With a salute, that town guard replied, ¡°After you mentioned the development projects that the town would undergo while you are the leader, quite a great portion of the town¡¯s poption has proactively decided to help out in those projects.¡±

    Taking in a quick breath, the town guard continued, ¡°Although almost all of the projects you have exined in the town meeting earlier today have been started on, the project that has received the most participation is the streetlight and road renovation project you mentioned at the end.¡±

    With the town guard mentioning this, Argentum then went ahead and focused his attention on the roads and the streetlights, noticing that they seem to look more modern than before. Of course, it wasn¡¯t as modern as the streets of modern Earth, but it was still far better than its previous state, which looked incredibly decrepit.

    As he walked along the streets of Verdant Breeze Town beside Helios, he could not help but notice that two people were more active than the others, seeing them give out orders every once in a while as they talked about the development projects he had given them. Surprisingly, those two people were none other than Delmann and Valstra, the vice leader and the secretary of Verdant Breeze Town.

    Seeing how Argentum looked to be at a loss for words while looking at them, Helios went silent for a bit before telling him, ¡°You want to talk to them, right? Go ahead, I¡¯ll just take a tour of the town myself.¡±

    Hearing that, Argentum thanked Helios, making sure to use words of ttery before the two parted ways. Argentum then headed to where Delmann and Valstra, noticing that quite a few stacks of parchment have been ced near them.

    With him being greeted every once in a while by the people, Delmann and Valstra had already noticed the arrival of Argentum, prompting Delmann to ask, ¡°Sir Argentum, why are you here? Didn¡¯t you tell us you were going out for a few days.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ve already taken care of what I needed to do. It had finished earlier than I thought,¡± Argentum replied before asking, ¡°Forget about me for now. What are you two doing?¡±

    ¡°Well, before you left us two, you told us to create a policy that would help make sure that the Livelihood Incentivization Law isn¡¯t being abused,¡± Delmann replied, to which Valstra continued, ¡°Though, just as we were about to go ahead and do so, quite a few of the townspeople decided to ask us when the development projects were going to start.¡±

    ¡°With that, we talked with each other for a bit before deciding to go ahead with the smallest project of them all, the renovation of roads and streetlights. Though, to make things a bit easier, we also started preparing for the three main projects you mentioned earlier in the town meeting, Sir Argentum.¡±

    Noticing that this was the first question Argentum asked them, Delmann could not help but think of the worst-case scenario as he asked, ¡°Is there¡­a problem with us doing this, Sir Argentum?¡±

    ¡°A problem? No, not at all,¡± Argentum hastily replied before lightly smiling. ¡°I¡¯ve quite happy to see that the town has proactively made a move to start the development projects. Though, as the town¡¯s leader, don¡¯t you think I should make a contribution as well?¡±

    Seeing that they weren¡¯t mad at him at all, but rather wanting to help out in the development process, Delmann and Valstra looked at each other before beaming bright smiles towards Argentum as the three of them went ahead and worked on the development projects with the townspeople.

    In the midst of doing so, unknowingly, two weeks have passed since then. Compared to the previous state of Verdant Breeze Town, it could have been said to be a miracle for the town to drastically look better in the span of two weeks. Nevertheless, it had been done under the leadership of the three leaders of Verdant Breeze Town.

    At the moment, Argentum was sitting on top of his bed as he gradually increased his mastery over the element of Lesser Origin. While doing so, a knock could be heard from the other side of the door, to which he responded, ¡°Come in.¡±

    Creak.

    Slowly opening the door, Valstra appeared in front of Argentum, who was still more or less focused on circting the element of Lesser Origin. Nevertheless, he ignored that as he told him, ¡°Sir Argentum, we¡¯ve obtained news that the townspeople have found an iron ore vein only ten kilometers from here, 10 degrees south-southwest. Would you like to head there and check it out?¡±

    Hearing that, Argentum opened his eyes as he stopped circting the elements. With a light stretch, he then looked at Valstra with a smile as he told him, ¡°Lead the way, then.¡±

    ¡°As you wish, Sir Argentum.¡±

    ¡­

    Maerr-viki Continent, Tempest Cliff, inside the Verdant Blossom Branch Alliance.

    While Argentum was fully focused on the development of Verdant Breeze Town these past two weeks, another being had instead focused on improving theirbat power at Tempest Cliff.

    Ding!

    As a notification sound resounded throughout therge stone room, a jade-like being opened its eyes as it let out a long sigh, muttering to itself, ¡°Finally. After two long weeks, I¡¯ve finally maxed out [Purification of Noble Blood].¡±

    With a slight grunt, the jade-like being slowly got up before starting to stretch its body. Of course, this being was none other than Aurus.

    Aftermanding the system to show him the effects of a maxed-out [Purification of Noble Blood], Aurus could not help but nod in satisfaction as he focused his attention on the other skills he had obtained, muttering to himself, ¡°With [Purification of Noble Blood] maxed out, I can finally use that other skill and give Herellia and the others a decent boost to their stats.¡±

    ¡°Then again, I should probably focus on myself a bit more before doing that.¡±

    ¡°Hmm¡­what should I do next?¡±

 Chapter 378: Bloodlust

    Chapter 378: Bloodlust

    As Aurus pondered over what he should do next, he eventually decided to focus his attention on another skill that hadn¡¯t reached the level of power he was aiming for. With that in mind, he scanned through the various skills he had in his arsenal through his system, noticing that there were quite a few that he had to put a bit of effort on.

    Though, it did not take long for him to focus his attention once more on the skills he had obtained after evolving to X-grade Inanimate. At first, he thought that it would be a good idea for him to focus his attention on the skill [Flux Knight] since it more or less meant that he would be able to create an army as strong as him. But in the end, after reading through the descriptions of his non-maxed skills, he eventually settled on the only skill he could level up that was rted to him being a Spiriveritas.

    ¡°Identify [The Thirteenth Spiriveritas: Epiphany of the Tempest].¡±

    Ding!

    ________

    [The Thirteenth Spiriveritas: Epiphany of the Tempest] (Lv. 1/99)

    Ever since the Spiritas has existed, there are those who yearn to achieve greater power while still being able to stay as an Inanimate. Fortunately, one of those Spiritii had achieved the impossible, forging a new path of evolution that would allow one to achieve Divinity without having to ascend to higher existence levels. Although the limitation was that one would have to be a Spiritas in order to be eligible, it was still greater than having no choice. Of course, to differentiate from the normal Spiritas, this Spiritas had named himself as the first Spiriveritas.

    One of the unique features of a Spiriveritas was toprehend a type ofw that was weak at first, but at the very peak would not lose out to thews of those that were at the level of Divinity. This type ofw was called an Epiphany, with each Spiriveritasprehending their own Epiphany. As the Thirteenth Spiriveritas, who has greatmand over the element of Wind, the heavens have decided to give him the Epiphany of the Tempest.

    > Increases the user¡¯s stats by 2% per level of the Epiphanyprehended (max of 200%)

    > Increases the stats ofpanions and servants by 1% per level of the Epiphanyprehended (max of 100%)

    > Increases the damage dealt by the user¡¯s skills and spells by 2% per level of the Epiphanyprehended (max of 200%)

    > Increases the user¡¯s attack speed by 2% per level of the Epiphanyprehended (max of 200%)

    > Increases the user¡¯s movement speed by 5% per level of the Epiphanyprehended (max of 500%)

    ________

    ¡°This¡­¡± After reading through the description of the skill, Aurus was left at a loss for words, thinking how about powerful he would be if he could raise the level of his Epiphany to the maximum it could go, which was Level 99. With this in mind, he now understood how the Spiriveritas would be able to reach the existence level of Divinity. In short, a Spiriveritas like him would be able to reach the existence level of Divinity once his Epiphany was maxed.

    ¡°If that¡¯s the case, then what level of Epiphany has Erudis reached?¡± Aurus muttered to himself as he pondered over it, thinking about the fact that Erudis was the first Spiriveritas to exist in the world of Erudinia. After that, he thought about the level of Epiphany the other Spiriveritae have reached, only to ce those thoughts at the back of his head as he made up his mind to focus most of his time on upgrading his Epiphany.

    With that, he soon closed his sense of vision and attuned his body to the Wind energy particles in the area, just like how he would attune his body in the past whenever he wanted to increase his affinity with the Wind element. At first, there was quite a lot of reaction from the surroundings, withrge amounts of Wind energy particles entering his body as his understanding of his Epiphany drastically increased.

    Though, within just a few minutes after he startedprehending his Epiphany, this rate had reduced to a snail¡¯s pace, making him wonder as to whether or not hisprehension speed after absorbing the All-seeing Comprehension Leaf had any effects onprehending his Epiphany or not.

    In fact, hisprehension speed was definitely doing its job as heprehended his Epiphany. If it were any other being trying toprehend an Epiphany, rather than progressing at a snail¡¯s pace, their progress would be akin to a drop of water gradually forming on the tip of a stctite, with the goal of creating an ocean.

    Eventually, after about an hour or so of trying toprehend his Epiphany in silence, he decided to stop, seeing as to how he had only progressed by a small amount after therge jump in progress at the beginning. With this in mind, he could not help but wonder to himself, ¡®Is it because there isn¡¯t a lot of Wind energy particles in this area?¡¯

    Pondering over this, Aurus eventually that it might be the case, recalling how Tempest Cliff was a region for beginners in ISE. With that, he went ahead and opened up the map of the continent through the system, setting a marker on one of the ces on the continent that was more condensed with Wind energy particles.

    After that, he left therge stone room he had been in for the past two weeks, gradually making his way to the alliance¡¯s main hall within a couple of teleports. Surprisingly, just as he had appeared at the main hall, a dark cyan silhouette appeared in front of him as he asked, ¡°Oh, if it isn¡¯t Aurus! Where are you heading off to?¡±

    Noticing the silhouette in front of him, Aurus was about to respond to his question just as a wave of energy washed over his body all of a sudden. After that, it was as if something had awakened inside of him. To him, it felt like it was something primal, as if this feeling had been inside him before he could even remember.

    Nevertheless, he made sure to not show this change on the outside as he replied to the silhouette, ¡°Oh, you know. I¡¯m just heading to another region to absorb more Wind energy particles. How about you, Horell? What are you doing here?¡±

    Horell, who was the one who appeared in front of Aurus, awkwardly chuckled as he replied, ¡°Oh, you know. Since I¡¯m the leader of the alliance, I have to patrol every once in a while. Anyways, how long are you nning to stay outside?¡±

    ¡°Probably for quite some time,¡± Aurus replied, feeling the thing that had awakened inside him be more restless. As he looked at Horell, he felt like he would eventually lose control over this thing and let it take over his body. With that in mind, he hastily moved out of the way before bidding farewell to Horell.

    ¡°See youter, Horell.¡±

    Whoosh!

    ¡°See youter?¡± As Horell responded to Aurus¡¯s farewell, he could not help but notice the peculiar aura surrounding Aurus at the very moment he was about to teleport. Eventually, he decided to just shrug it off and think of it as it being part of the skill Aurus was improving.

    ¡­

    Whoosh!

    By the time Aurus had arrived at the location he had marked on his system, the sun was already at its peak. Nevertheless, the heat of the sun couldn¡¯t be felt as strong gusts of wind blew over the area once in a while, making one feel colder than they normally would feel.

    Sensing the density of Wind energy particles in this area, Aurus could not help but mutter to himself, ¡°As expected of a high-level region in Infinite Stick Evolution. The Divine Wind Valley is truly one of the best ces to improve Wind-rted skills if one were to talk about the continent of Arveridia¡­if it was called that anyway.¡±

    Coincidentally, the Divine Wind Valley is also the ce where Helios¡¯s Heaven¡¯s Gust Inheritance could be found. Though, Aurus came here not to undergo through inheritances, but to improve hisprehension over the Epiphany that had been given to him by the heavens.

    With that in mind, he then went ahead and teleported to an area that was more secluded than most, eventually ending up in a slightly dense forest located near the edge of one side of the valley. Sitting cross-legged on top of one of the sturdier trees in the forest, Aurus closed his sense of vision once more as he attuned his body to the Wind energy particles.

    Swoosh! Swoosh!

    Fortunately, Aurus¡¯s hypothesis was correct, sensing that his progress inprehending his Epiphany had improvedpared to the rate it was previously progressing. Arge amount of Wind energy particles could be seen circling around his body before being absorbed by his body altogether, as if he was slowly turning into the incarnation of wind.

    Well, in actuality, his hypothesis was only correct for a short amount of time as around ten minutes or soter, the amount of Wind energy particles he was pulling in had decreased drastically once more, just like what had happened to him back in the Verdant Blossom Branch Alliance. With that in mind, he hastily stopped absorbing more Wind energy particles from the surroundings, instead pondering over what specific conditions he should meet in order to improve his Epiphany very quickly.

    ¡°Hmm¡­since it¡¯s called the Epiphany of the Tempest, then that means myprehension should be rted to Wind energy particles, or the element of Wind itself,¡± Aurus muttered as he pondered over what part he wascking on. Eventually, he decided to give up on pondering over it and continue to absorb more Wind energy particles to progress his Epiphany. In the end, his Epiphany would still improve, albeit at a slower rate.

    But just as he was about to close his sense of vision once more, a small creature decided to hop along the tree where Aurus was sitting on. Naturally, Aurus¡¯s curiosity got the better of him as he looked at the creature that appeared.

    If one took a quick nce, one would notice that it was just a normal docile rabbit. Though, thanks to the overabundance of Wind energy particles in the area, the rabbit¡¯s fur had taken on a slight green shine as it moved through the area at slightly quicker speeds. Nevertheless, with Aurus¡¯s current strength, he could track the rabbit¡¯s movement quite easily.

    Of course, that wasn¡¯t the reason why he was staring at the rabbit at this moment. That was because, just like how something had awakened inside his body while Horell was talking to him, that same feeling awakened once more as he looked at this rabbit. Before, he wasn¡¯t so sure as to what this feeling was while he was with Horell. At most, he could only sense that it was something tied to his life so far, as if it was a primal instinct.

    But now, after experiencing this feeling once more, he was now certain of this feeling. Indeed, it was a primal instinct innately imbued inside one¡¯s body, an instinct only beings of flesh and blood could have. Although it would normally not make sense for an Inanimate to have something like this, to Aurus, who used to be a human in the past, it made full sense for him to have this. This feeling was none other than¡­

    Bloodlust.

    Whoosh!

    Without hesitation, Aurus extended his right palm outward as he tracked the small rabbit with his sense of vision, utilizing the effects of his vision-rted skill very well. As he did that, an aura rarely seen on Aurus had appeared once more, making him give off the feeling that he was a madman longing for blood.

    Eventually, a de of Wind energy particles manifested in front of Aurus¡¯s extended palm as he shot it out towards the small green rabbit. Naturally, with his current strength, the rabbit was killed in one shot as its blood sttered all over the ground.

    Seeing this, it was as if that feeling had now fully awakened, causing a great amount of Wind energy particles to surround him before bombarding his body with it, stimting the progress of hisprehension over his Epiphany to reach outstanding levels. Eventually, it had reached its peak as a notification sound resounded throughout his mind, telling him that he had now reached the second level of Epiphany.

    It was at this moment that Aurus realized something else about his Epiphany.

    ¡°Sure, the Epiphany of the Tempest is greatly rted to the element of Wind. But only now do I realize that there is one more thing to this Epiphany.¡±

    ¡°One could say that it¡¯s the destruction of all things in its path, one could even say that it¡¯s the destruction of all living beings in its path. In any case, it would eventually be summed up into one word.¡±

    ¡°¡­¡±

    ¡°Chaos.¡±

 Chapter 379: Massacre

    Chapter 379: Massacre

    Finally realizing how he would be able to improve his understanding of his Epiphany to the next level at a quicker pace, Aurus could not help but be excited, sensing that his whole body seemed to be hinting to him that killing would be beneficial to him.

    Nevertheless, even though his body seemed to be screaming to him to find another animal to kill right now, Aurus was still doubtful as to whether or not killing an animal would help improve his understanding of the Epiphany by that much. For all he knew, the moment he killed the animal was just a coincidental moment wherein arge amount of Wind energy particles surged into his body out of nowhere.

    With that in mind, he decided to test it out one more time, eventually finding another rabbit nibbling on a bunch of leaves not far from where he was. Hovering over it as an aura of killing intent and bloodlust emanated from him, Aurus extended his right palm once more before shooting out a de of wind, decapitating the rabbit as its blood gushed like a fountain.

    As the rabbit¡¯s blood trickled out from its body, arge amount of Wind energy particles condensed around Aurus before being absorbed by his body, drastically increasing the progress of his Epiphany iparable to what his progress looked like while he was just absorbing Wind energy particles from the surroundings.

    Seeing that his progress had increased by a lot once more, the thought of killing being able to improve his Epiphany in less time had be somewhat more solidified than ever before, with his body aching to take control over his body and go on a maniacal rampage from it. But of course, Aurus was still doubtful as to whether or not it was true.

    In his mind, something like this happening once was a fluke, but for it to happen twice, it might just be a miraculous coincidence. But if it happened another time after that, then Aurus definitely wouldn¡¯t hold back.

    And so, with that in mind, Aurus went ahead and moved throughout the forest a bit more to find another animal to kill, eventually spotting a small fox frolicking through the various foliage and trees littered around the forest. Unlike the small rabbits he had killed, which took on a slight green shine due to the overabundance of Wind energy particles, the way the overabundance had taken effect on this small fox was its tailpletely taking on a pastel green color.

    In any case, even if its abilities were strongerpared to normal foxes, it still didn¡¯t stand a chance against Aurus, who mercilessly shot a de of wind towards the fox, piercing directly through its heart.

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    Seeing that arge amount of Wind energy particles had condensed and been absorbed by his body once more, Aurus was now certain that the killing of animals had great effects on his progress regarding theprehension of his Epiphany. In fact, after killing two animals, he felt like he was quite near to reaching the third level of his Epiphany.

    Nheless, with Aurus killing animals three times and all of them allowing arge amount of Wind energy particles to be absorbed by his body all three times, Aurus allowed his mind to be a bit more loose, letting his primal instincts take over his body. Of course, he made sure to not go overboard, knowing very well of the impacts killing brought to the environment. But in any case, he had no qualms in killing animals as it improved hisbat power.

    With that in mind, he then went on a killing spree, killing any thing that moved throughout the whole forest located near the edge of the Divine Wind Valley. Funnily enough, with his primal instincts mostly doing all of the work, he had even targeted some of the leaves that swayed along with the wind, only to soon find out that he had identally hit an animal behind it.

    Nevertheless, with him going on a killing spree, the speed at which hisprehension of his Epiphany progressed had vastly increasedpared to before, with it breaking through to the fifth level within a span of ten minutes. By the time he felt like he had eradicated almost all of the species living inside the forest, he had already reached the sixth level.

    At this point, his primal instincts had gained greater control over his body, with it automatically heading towards the forest on the other side of the Divine Wind Valley within a few moments. At the very instant he arrived, he started to go on a massacre yet again, not even sparing the somewhat rarer animals that roamed the forest.

    To clear the forest on the other side of the Divine Wind Valley, it had only taken Aurus half an hour to do so, with his understanding of his Epiphany breaking through the eighth level due to the sheer number of animals he had killed so far.

    Well, to be more specific, he had only killed around a few hundred animals so far. But thanks to how it gradually became harder for one toprehend one¡¯s Epiphany, the number of animals he had to kill to reach the next level drastically increased for every consecutive level. Which was the reason why he had only reached the eighth level after killing so much.

    Then again, even though he had only reached the eighth level of his Epiphany out of the 99 levels out there, Aurus was surprisingly in a state of euphoria, a euphoria that was triggered by the killings he had done so far. Normally, Aurus would be hesitant to kill a being unless he needed to do so to improve. But now, those hinges holding him back had now be looser than before, making one wonder as to whether or not he could still remember his earlier words of not going overboard.

    Fortunately, by the time his instincts realized that there was next to no more animals for him to kill in the other forest, his rationality gradually took over his body, slowly removing the euphoria he felt from killing the animals as guilt and shock overwhelmed his body.

    ¡°How¡­did it turn out like this?¡± Aurus muttered to himself, wondering how it had gotten this bad within such a short amount of time. Sure, he had allowed his mind to loosen up a bit, but never did it ur to him that something like this would be the result of it.

    As he pondered over this matter even more, he eventually felt the presence of an incredibly strong being gradually making its way over to where Aurus was, instantly making him go into panic before using his movement skill to hastily get out of the Divine Wind Valley.

    As for the incredibly strong being that had just barely missed the moment Aurus left, itnded near the spot where Aurus previously was before letting out a long sigh, looking at all of the animals it had put in a lot of effort to breed, only for it to be killed in one go by a madman.

    ¡°This divine being doesn¡¯t mind other beings killing a bunch of my animals¡­but for you to go to this extent, now you¡¯ve incurred my wrath,¡± the being muttered to itself, feeling indignant at the meaningless deaths of his animals. Unfortunately for the being, Aurus had already teleported far away from the Divine Wind Valley, heading another ce in the process.

    ¡­

    Whoosh!

    By the time he had stopped teleporting, a couple more hours had passed since then. Naturally, since he was adamant in advancing his understanding of his Epiphany to higher levels, he opted to head towards an area where there were a lot of Wind energy particles, just like the Divine Wind Valley. Though, unlike the Divine Wind Valley, he had an additional requirement for the location. In this case¡­

    A lot of animals to kill.

    Allowing his mana to recover, Aurus thenmanded the system to show him his current location, allowing him to find out that he was in a ce called Greater Tempest Cliff. As he read this name, he could not help but feel like this name was somewhat familiar to him. Unfortunately, even after he pondered over this thought for a couple of minutes, nothing significant came to mind.

    With that, he shrugged his shoulders and ced this thought at the back of his head as he started to teleport once more, deciding to aim for the predatory species of Greater Tempest Cliff.

    Previously, the animals that he had targeted at the Divine Wind Valley were only animals that could be considered prey. But even then, the amount of Wind energy particles they allowed him to absorb had already reached a level pure absorption couldn¡¯t achieve. Though, as he continued to kill more and more animals, he eventually started to kill predatory species, which gave around thrice as much Wind energy particles than those considered prey.

    And so, Aurus aimed to kill the predatory species of Greater Tempest Cliff first before those that were prey. On top of that, after recalling what had happened after he let his mind loosen up, he made sure to keep himself in check every once in a while as he soon made his way to the first predatory animal he found.

    With a single de of wind, the predatory animal fell to the ground with its back open for all to see. Looking at the animal¡¯s opened back, something had awakened inside Aurus once again, prompting him to restrain this feeling to its limits. But unfortunately, even though he fought against it, he still ultimately lost to it in the end as he went on a crazed killing spree once more.

    With all of the predatory animals in Greater Tempest Cliff being his target, he swiftly moved through its terrain and killed all of them with a single de of wind, allowing an abundant amount of Wind energy particles to circle around him every time he killed an animal. In fact, with him moving at greater speeds, the speed at which his body absorbed the Wind energy particles was even slower than him ruing more Wind energy particles to absorb.

    Nevertheless, his understanding over his Epiphany was consistently improving. By the time he had killed around half of the predatory animals in Greater Tempest Cliff, he had already reached the 10th level of Epiphany, increasing hisbat power by quite a certain amount. As for him depriving the whole Greater Tempest Cliff of its predatory animals, he had achieved the 11th level of Epiphany thanks to that.

    Normally, such a killing spree would¡¯ve been noticed by other beings at this point. But due to the uniqueness of Greater Tempest Cliff, which did not really have any being ruling it, Aurus did not have to fear the repercussions. And so, after he had killed all of the predatory animals in Greater Tempest Cliff, he moved to killing all of the prey, only finishing by the time the sun was close to setting down.

    Coming back to reality as his rationality returned to him, Aurus looked at the aftermath of his killing spree once more, wondering whether what he was doing was right or wrong. Though, as he thought about the times where his de would impale or pierce the bodies of the animals and allow blood to spurt out in various ways, he could not help but feel like his morality and judgment over this matter had clouded quite a bit.

    Fortunately, he had eventually suppressed his primal instincts to the limit, allowing his rationality to take reign once more as he thought that the amount of progress he had achieved so far in understanding his Epiphany was enough for now. Though, just as he was about to leave the Greater Tempest Cliff and head back to where the Verdant Blossom Branch Alliance was located, he could faintly hear the sounds of people talking and having fun, making his bloodlust awaken slightly before he suppressed it once more.

    ¡°I should head back to the alliance,¡± Aurus muttered to himself before repeating it in his mind over and over again. Knowing how dangerous it was for him to allow his primal instincts to take control over his body, he did not dare to imagine the aftermath of what he would do if he went nearer to that ce.

    Sadly for him, it seemed like his body had a mind of its own, gradually guiding him to where the ce where people were even though he didn¡¯t want to.

 Chapter 380: Murder

    Chapter 380: Murder

    By the time he was already halfway to reaching the ce where people were, Aurus had finally realized that he had been subconsciously heading in the direction of the area, instantly stopping in his tracks as he wondered what was going on with his body.

    ¡°How is my body doing this?¡± Aurus could not help but ask himself, wondering if his awakened primal instincts had something to do with this problem. After a while, he could only conclude that this problem was indeed because of those instincts awakening, seeing that he had not experienced or done anything else other than that during this time.

    Now realizing that he was slowly but surely making his way to the ce where people were, Aurus consciously controlled where his body moved as he teleported, double checking to make sure that he was heading back in the direction of the Verdant Blossom Branch Alliance. But unfortunately, even though that was the case, it still seemed like his body wanted him to do something else, with each teleport inching him closer and closer to the ce where people were.

    At this point, Aurus was far enough to more or less see that the ce where people were was, in actuality, a town that was bustling even while the sun was starting to set. With this in mind, he tried once more to teleport in the direction of the Verdant Blossom Branch Alliance, not wanting to see any of the people that lived in the town in fear of his primal instincts.

    But once more, his body dictated otherwise, teleporting him closer and closer to the town until eventually, he was only a couple of kilometers away from the town¡¯s gates, allowing him to hear the hustle and bustle of this town that seemed to have no time for silence.

    Whoosh!

    Seeing as he had gotten closer to the town that moving farther away from it, Aurus could not help but let out a sigh, wondering yet again as to what was going on with his body after he had awakened his primal instinct of bloodlust. With that in mind, he could not help but think over the reason why he had awakened this yet again.

    As he pondered over it even more, he noticed that he had awakened such a human instinct as an Inanimate, which he thought made full sense back then since he knew for a fact that he was human in soul. But then, taking into consideration that he was in an Inanimate body, he now had no idea if the awakening of instincts were brought about by the body of the being or the soul of the being.

    Eventually, he decided to not think about it any further since he would obtain no answer to it after mulling over it even for a long time. In any case, he had bloodlust, and he had to make sure that this bloodlust would not harm others in any way¡­if he could control it in the first ce anyway.

    For some reason, with the passage of time, he lost more and more control over this instinct of his, to the point that whenever he went on a killing spree to increase hisprehension over the Epiphany of the Tempest, it would seem like his body had be autonomous, killing anything and everything that was in his line of sight. While that happened, his mind would seem nk, though at the same time, he was in a state of great euphoria.

    Knowing very well that he might lose himself in the feeling of euphoria from killing, Aurus now wanted to limit himself from killing any more beings than the ones he had killed so far. Currently, he was rationalizing the fact that he had more or less wiped out the ecosystem of two areas to increase hisprehension of his Epiphany because they were beasts that could kill conscious beings in the future.

    In any case, he could not focus on his thoughts for long as the mor from the town nearby snapped him out of his train of thought, making him look at the town¡¯s gates in silence as he knew very well that if he entered the town at this moment, he would not be acting in the best interest of his rational and logical side.

    But even though that was the case, each and every Anima making up his body seemed to be screaming out at him, telling him to enter the town as it would increase thebat power of his body to greater heights at speeds he had never imagined of reaching before.

    In the end, Aurus decided that it wouldn¡¯t be harmful if he just entered the town to take a look inside and see what was the mor all about, making sure that he wouldn¡¯t make a move on the citizens that were in the town. Unfortunately, he did not notice at this moment that even his rationality was now being clouded by the bloodlust, acting for the benefit of himself instead of others.

    Nevertheless, he still entered the town with a couple of teleports, fully believing that he had control over the awakened instincts of his body. But then, at the very instant he had seen the people moving around throughout the town, it seemed that his body had entered a manic state for a second before quickly returning to normal, with him being none the wiser.

    With that happening, he continued to teleport throughout the town, watching the people do their things as he could feel that he was losing his control over the bloodlust he was feeling. Though, while that was happening, he could not help but ask himself, ¡°Are these people still doing work even though it¡¯s already turning to nighttime?¡±

    Curious as to what was going on, he continued to teleport, taking note of the fact that the most citizens of the town he entered were converging towards three spots while a fraction were scattered throughout the town, increasing the brightness and liveliness of the town in the meantime.

    ¡°I guess they¡¯re improving the quality of their living,¡± Aurus muttered as he continued to watch, feeling like his instincts would take control of his body at any moment. Fortunately, he was still able to suppress this feeling as he could not help but say, ¡°The leader of this town must be a good leader, seeing how they want to improve the livelihood of their citizens.¡±

    Unfortunately, just as he was about to teleport outside the town to return back to the Verdant Blossom Branch Alliance, satisfied with what he had seen, his instincts seemed to have taken control of his body once more, making Aurus slowly inch towards one of the townspeople, who was currently carrying a few nks of wood over their shoulder.

    Thankfully, at the veryst moment, Aurus restrained himself as he watched that person carrying wood walk farther and farther away from him, letting out a sigh of relief as he muttered to himself, ¡°I shouldn¡¯t kill any person here. After all, they haven¡¯t done anything bad.¡±

    ¡°Then again, it¡¯s kind of bothersome for me to have to suppress this instinct,¡± he continued. At this point, it seemed that the bloodlust his body had awakened had now more or less merged with his rationality, with Aurus not noticing that he was thinking of releasing some of the stress brought about by the bloodlust he was feeling.

    Under the facade of still having control over his body, Aurus thought to himself, ¡®I should probably kill one of the people to satiate the bloodlust my body is feeling. After that, I won¡¯t kill anyone else and leave this town to head back to the alliance. I¡¯ve already made enough progress inprehending my Epiphany as is.¡¯

    With that in mind, he teleported throughout the town to search for a person that looked the most arrogant out of them, thinking to himself that by killing one of the arrogant men, there would be less people that would fall prey to the man¡¯s future incidents.

    Fortunately for him, it did not take long for Aurus to find one that fit his conditions. Currently, the man was carrying a stack of wooden rods on his shoulders to one of the three spots in town. With a slight frown on his face, he muttered curses every once in a while as he wondered why he was doing something like this although the moon had already taken the sun¡¯s ce.

    Watching the man from far away, Aurus then used his mastery over the element of Wind to slowly create a breeze in front of the man, blowing away some of the wooden rods the man was carrying on his shoulders.

    Seeing that a few wooden rods he was carrying had flown away out of his grasp, the arrogant man could not help but mutter a curse as he chased after the rods that were being carried by the sudden breeze that blew at him. While chasing after the rods, the man could not help but wonder why such a strong breeze would blow throughout the town at this time, remembering that the weather as ofte did not dictate any storms or anything like that.

    Nevertheless, he continued to chase after the rods until eventually, the rods slowly rolled along the ground, prompting the arrogant man to curse out, ¡°Damned rods. Why do they have to be so light for them to be carried away by the wind?¡±

    As he muttered this to himself while slowly picking up the wooden rods that had finally stopped flying away from him, he soon noticed that he was inside one of the many alleys scattered throughout this town. With that in mind, he could not help but mutter to himself, ¡°Well, that¡¯s weird. How could the rods be blown away to one of the alleys?¡±

    ¡°Unless¡­¡± Unfortunately, just as the arrogant man had realized what was going on, the sound of something piercing through flesh softly resounded throughout the alley, with the arrogant man as to what was going on.

    Drip. Drip. Drip.

    Though, it did not take long for the man to find out what was actually happening as he soon noticed drops of blood appearing near his feet. With that, he let go of one side of the rods he was carrying as he soon felt a warm liquid trickling down his face.

    As he touched it with his free hand to see what this warm liquid was, he noticed that his free hand was now covered in red. It was at that very moment that he realized what was going on, instantly fearing for what was about to happen next.

    Unfortunately for him, it was around this moment that the vitality in his body had slowly withered away as he fell to the ground with a thud. As his blood gradually coated the wooden rods scattered around his body, a jade-like figure appeared in front of the man¡¯s corpse, the aura surrounding the figure being that of euphoria.

    A few secondster, this jade-like figure was soon surrounded by arge mass of green energy particles, far greater than the mass the jade-like figure had ever seen before. In one go, these green energy particles were soon absorbed by the jade-like figure¡¯s body as the being soon muttered to itself, ¡°To think that one human would allow my understanding of the Epiphany of the Tempest to instantly jump up to Level 13¡­¡±

    ¡°I think it wouldn¡¯t hurt to bring justice to a few more people¡­¡±

    ¡°¡­right?¡±

    ¡­

    While that was happening, one of the townspeople in the town Aurus entered hastily made his way to one of the spots where most of the people converged. In the middle of this convergence were three people, with the one at the center radiating an aura of solemnity and magnanimousness at the same time.

    Swallowing his saliva as he wondered whether it was the right moment to talk about it, the person eventually mustered up his courage as he walked closer to the person at the center, saying, ¡°Town leader, we have a problem.¡±

    ¡°What is it?¡± the man, called the town leader, asked in response.

    ¡°We¡¯ve received reports that one of our able-bodied men has been killed in one of the various alleys of our town, with no one being able to find the culprit that did it,¡± the person exined.

    In response to the townsman¡¯s words, the town leader went silent for a moment before asking, ¡°Is that all?¡±

    The townsman shook his head as he continued, ¡°ording to one of the eyewitnesses, the incident only happened around ten minutes ago. And¡­¡±

    ¡°And what?¡± The town leader urged the townsman to continue.

    ¡°And¡­that¡¯s only the first report we¡¯ve received.¡±

    ¡°¡­¡± Hearing how there were more people killed in town without him knowing, the town leader could not help but be silent as he pondered on what to do next.

    Eventually, one of the people by his side looked at him and asked, ¡°Well, what do you n on doing next, Sir Argentum?¡±

 Chapter 381: Confrontation

    Chapter 381: Confrontation

    ¡°What I n on doing next?¡± Argentum asked in response to the man¡¯s question beside him, looking at him as if he was slightly idiotic for not knowing what he would do next. Of course, the man beside him that asked the question was none other than Delmann, the vice leader of the town. On the other hand, Valstra, the newly appointed secretary a couple of weeks ago, was silently listening to the conversation the two were having as he continued to order the townspeople on what to do next.

    ¡°At this point, don¡¯t you think it¡¯s kind of obvious on what I should do?¡± he continued, prompting Delmann to let out an awkward chuckle as thetter now had an idea on what was going to happen. Nevertheless, he still wanted to make sure his doubts were cleared up, to which Delmann asked, ¡°So, if I¡¯m not mistaken, you shall be searching for the culprit, Sir Argentum?¡±

    ¡°Of course I will,¡± Argentum replied with a grin on his face, making the townspeople around them let out sighs of admiration as they knew that their leader this time around was truly better than the previous one they had, even more so after he had started development projects for the town.

    With that, Argentum told Delmann and Valstra the tasks that they had to take over with him not being around. After making sure that the two had not forgotten, Argentum went ahead and activated all of the movement speed buffs he had created through his Sage¡¯s Magic skills, deciding to do a nket search throughout the whole town.

    In the meantime, Delmann and Valstra, who had been watching Argentum¡¯s silhouette gradually disappear from the fields of vision before heading back to work, decided to hold a conversation as Valstra asked Delmann, ¡°Say, Delmann. Is Sir Argentum going to search for someone strong to take care of the culprit doing all of the killings in this town?¡±

    In response, Delmann slowly shook his head as he looked at Valstra with a smile and said, ¡°Valstra, you underestimate Sir Argentum too much.¡±

    ¡°Hmm?¡± Valstra was slightly confused as to why he was told that he was underestimating Argentum. Though, it did not take long for him to realize what Delmann was trying to tell him, prompting him to open his mouth as he asked, ¡°Then¡­do you mean¡­?¡±

    With a light nod, Delmann replied, ¡°You might have not seen him in action before, but I have. The very least I can tell you about him in that regard is that¡­¡±

    ¡°¡­he definitely has some tricks up his sleeve that makes sure he doesn¡¯t lose.¡±

    ¡­

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    As Argentum continued to dart over the town in search for the culprit that had decided to kill his town¡¯s citizens all of a sudden, he circted a bit of his energy inside his body towards a certain area, contacting two people that were somewhat close to the town he was in.

    ¡°Eleanor? Felix? Can you two hear me?¡± he asked through the connection that was established, making sure to form a connection that allowed the two to hear each other as well.

    ¡°Yeah, what¡¯s up?¡± Eleanor was the first one to reply, sensing the slight urgency in Argentum¡¯s tone. As for Felix, he went silent for a bit before asking, ¡°Did something happen to the town?¡±

    ¡°Someone decided to go on a killing spree in the town, but I can¡¯t seem to think up of a reason why someone would do such a thing,¡± Argentum replied, to which Eleanor could not help but have her me for fighting intensify as she asked in response, ¡°Do you need our help in capturing that person? Or perhaps¡­you want us to kill the person?¡±

    ¡°Well, yes and no,¡± Argentum said in response. ¡°For now, I¡¯m just letting you know of the current situation that¡¯s happening in town. If I can apprehend the culprit without needing you two to make a move, then I¡¯ll let you know if that happens.¡±

    ¡°But if I couldn¡¯t apprehend the culprit with the strength I have¡­¡± After saying these words, Argentum¡¯s aura turned slightly colder as he emanated slight killing intent. ¡°Then, I shall show no mercy for those who dare to harm my people.¡±

    With both Eleanor and Felix now being alerted of what was happening in town, Argentum continued to move throughout the town in search of the culprit while maintaining the connection he had with the two. Eventually, after ten or so minutes of constant running, he had finally found a trace of the culprit, hearing a loud shriek resound out from an alley as a dull thud could be heard not long after.

    Heading in the direction of the loud shriek, Argentum had arrived there, only to notice that arge amount of Wind energy particles was covering a being from head to toe, absorbing those particles not long after as the aura being emanated by that person gradually intensified with each particle absorbed.

    Unfortunately, just as he was about to find out who or what that being was, as if it had noticed Argentum¡¯s presence, the being decided to flee away from the scene, leaving Argentum with no choice but to catch up to the being. Though, within a few seconds, he had already lost track of where that being had gone.

    Seeing that the being was incredibly quick in its steps, Argentum could not help but scratch his head as he muttered to himself, ¡°Well, this is going to take a while.¡±

    In any case, he wasn¡¯t dismayed by the fact that he could not catch up to the being at all. In fact, he was taking it as a challenge, deciding to use more of his wits to apprehend the being rather than only relying on his physical abilities to do so.

    With that in mind, he continued to give chase to the being that was killing the townspeople, with his expression bing more grim with every person that was killed. By the time 10 people had been killed in total by the being covered in Wind energy particles, he had met up with the being once more, only for him to lose sight of the being once more with a sigh of slight annoyance.

    By the time over 20 people had been killed by the being, Argentum decided to ask Felix to head over to the town as fast as possible, asking him to use a detection skill on the town to track the being wherever it went.

    Fortunately, Felix agreed to it, arriving through a rift not long after. After taking on a human form, Felix then went ahead and conjured multiple magic circles on top of magic circles, casting a detection skill that spanned over the entire town. Now having an idea of where the being was going, Argentum and Felix decided to give chase to the being once more, but with increased determination and fervor.

    While making their way to where the being was, Felix could not help but notice that the being was heading in another direction at lesser time than before, prompting him to ask Argentum, ¡°Don¡¯t you think this guy¡¯s slowly getting faster and faster?¡±

    ¡°Hmm?¡± Hearing this, Argentum could not help but ponder over his previous encounters with the being, eventually noticing that Felix¡¯s words were, in fact, true. Realizing this, he could not help but ask Felix in response, ¡°How is he getting faster, though?¡±

    ¡°By the looks of it, he¡¯s gaining strength by killing more humans,¡± Felix said in response, only for him to lightly grin soon after as he looked at Argentum and asked, ¡°Want to really surprise him?¡±

    Though, just as Argentum was about to respond to Felix¡¯s question, Felix had already made the first move, opening up a rift just before Argentum could stop his momentum.

    Swoosh!

    In less than an instant, a rift was opened in another part of town, prompting Argentum to look at Felix, who had just appeared beside him, with slight anger and say, ¡°You could¡¯ve told me that you were about to open¡­a rift¡­you¡­know?¡±

    But just as he was about to get angrier at Felix for doing that, that anger had dissipated in less than an instant after seeing the being that had been killing his people in front of him. At that instant, Argentum was left at a loss for words. Instead, he inwardly screamed in shock, ¡®Why is he here?¡¯

    In front of him was a being seemingly made out of jade, taking on the appearance of a human sculpture that had been exquisitely carved. Every inch of its surface seemed to be brimming with strength, though it felt like it had not reached its limit yet.

    Of course, Argentum knew who this being was. It was none other than Aurus, the original version of himself. But for some reason, while looking at Aurus, who would normally seem amicable in front of him, he instead felt an aura of killing intent that even surpassed Eleanor¡¯s whenever she went berserk. It was as if¡­he had be the incarnation of killing itself.

    ¡°Aurus?¡± Still in a dazed shock after seeing Aurus in front of him, Argentum could not help but walk closer towards Aurus, who seemed to be looking at Argentum in silence as he gradually went closer. Unfortunately for Argentum, just as he was about to get extremely close to Aurus, as if a boundary had been breached, Aurus made a move against Argentum all of a sudden, punching out with his right arm as it was covered in the element of Wind, increasing its speed.

    With Argentum still oblivious to what was happening, it was only at the veryst moment did he realize what was going on, conjuring a shield against the attack at the veryst second. Sadly, with the shield not having enough energy, it did not evenst an instant in front of it, prompting him to close his eyes in fear.

    Thud!

    As he wondered why he had not been sent flying yet, Argentum slowly opened his eyes to find out that a barrier made out of water had been conjured around him, only to find out that Felix was currently looking at Aurus with the intent of self-defense. Though, since Felix had noticed that Argentum knew who this being in front of him was, he went ahead and sent a strand of energy to Argentum, asking, ¡°Who¡¯s this being? How do you know him?¡±

    Snapping back to the reality of the matter thanks to Felix¡¯s question, Argentum instantly went into a fighting stance as he sent back a strand of energy in response, telling Felix, ¡°I¡¯ll exin the specifics with you and Eleanorter. But for now¡­¡±

    ¡°¡­it seems like we have to defeat him.¡±

    Sensing the intent to fight emanating from both Argentum and Felix, Aurus went ahead and made another move against the two, jumping with all his strength as he conjured multiple des of wind in his surroundings before shooting it out towards the two in a barrage.

    In response to this attack, Felix let out a light snort as he conjured a magic circle, forming a circle of water in midair that reflected back the des of wind towards Aurus. Naturally, with him having great mastery over the element of Wind, Aurus had no problem negating the attack he had sent out, utilizing his movement abilities to dart all over the ce until no more wind des were heading straight at him.

    Clicking his tongue, Felix made yet another move, deciding to go all out from the very start. Without hesitation, he conjured a spear made out of water before disappearing in front of the two the very next instant.

    As Aurus stood there in silence, wondering where one of the beings attacking him had gone, Felix had appeared behind Aurus at the exact moment he was the most off guard, thrusting his spear with the greatest strength he could muster as he shouted, ¡°[Tsunami Piercer]!¡±

    Bang!

    In an instant, arge shockwave had radiated from the collision, prompting Argentum to utilize his control over the element of Lesser Origin to form a barrier over the nearby houses, making sure that they weren¡¯t destroyed from the attack. Though, just as he was about to ask Felix how Aurus was, certain that the move had temporarily incapacitated Aurus, instead he was left aghast as another sight had entered his field of vision.

    ¡°What?!¡±

    That was because, instead of Aurus falling down to the ground from the attack¡­

    Aurus had instead defended against the attack¡­with a spear of his own!

 Chapter 382: Guilt and Regret

    Chapter 382: Guilt and Regret

    ¡°What?!¡± Both Argentum and Felix were left aghast after seeing the counterattack Aurus had done tobat against Felix¡¯s [Tsunami Piercer]. The two of them knew that Aurus had only been attacking them with des so far. And from how he had made the first move against Argentum, they had a feeling that Aurus had the greatest experience with des or skills that had something to do with des. Though, even if that was the case¡­

    Why did Aurus decide to retaliate an attack from a spear¡­with a spear of his own?

    Unfortunately for the two of them, Aurus would not give them the answer, nor the chance to obtain the answer as Aurus went ahead and thrust the spear he had conjured in retaliation towards Felix, who had be off guard from the shock he felt.

    Bang!

    Without even being able to retaliate, Felix was sent flying, only for him toe to an abrupt stop as he forced himself to hover in the skies, ruing slight injuries from the skirmish. For the most part, the injuries Felix had received from the attack were mostly superficial, only skin-deep at most. Though, after Aurus attacked him, he could not help but send another strand of energy to him and ask, ¡°Argentum, did you ever teach him [Tsunami Piercer]?¡±

    ¡°Huh? No? Why do you ask?¡± Hearing the question, Argentum naturally denied all notions of him teaching Aurus one of the strongest attacks Felix could unleash, knowing very well that the two of them had been separated from each other for quite some time due to him focusing on the town¡¯s development. Sensing that Argentum was not lying to him, Felix scratched his head as he said soon after, ¡°Well, that¡¯s weird. I don¡¯t know how he learned of it, but he has definitely grasped the essence of [Tsunami Piercer] from what I felt through the attack.¡±

    ¡°If it¡¯s that¡­then there¡¯s a possibility,¡± Argentum could not help but mutter as Felix swung his spear at Aurus from time to time, waiting to find an opening where he could unleash a strong attack once more. Sadly, Aurus did not give Felix that chance, instead using it to gradually be more proficient with the spear, which Felix could not help but notice as time passed.

    Looking at Argentum once more to ask him why Aurus was gradually bing more proficient with the spear, Argentum went ahead and took the initiative, sending out a strand of energy towards Felix as he said with slight uncertainty, ¡°I don¡¯t know if this makes a difference or not, but if I remember correctly, Aurus has absorbed an All-seeing Comprehension Leaf in the past.¡±

    ¡°An All-seeing Comprehension Leaf?!¡± Felix could not help but exim, only for him to show an opening that Aurus instantly used, utilizing a Wind-based version of [Tsunami Piercer] to attack.

    Bang!

    Just like before, Felix was sent flying, which he forcibly stopped through the usage of his energy. Nevertheless, even though he was more injured from this attackpared to the first retaliation Aurus did, the expression of shock was still prevalent on his face, making Argentum realize that what he said must have struck a chord somewhere in Felix.

    ¡°Er¡­is there anything wrong with what I said?¡± Argentum could not help but ask just in case. But instead of responding to his question, Felix simply told him, ¡°Tell Eleanor toe here.¡±

    ¡°A-alright then.¡± Hearing Felix¡¯s stern tone, Argentum went ahead and utilized the connection he had with Eleanor to ask her toe where the two of them were, making sure to fill her in on what was going on before she arrived. Well, unlike Felix, she did not have any spell or skill that allowed her to create rifts to teleport. Nevertheless, with her being an incredibly strong Pseudo-Animate, it only took a couple of minutes for her to arrive at her fastest speed.

    ¡°So, why did you ask me toe here, Felix?¡± At the very instant she arrived where the two of them were, Eleanor went ahead and asked Felix, who was shing against Aurus with his spear, making sure to only thrust his spear at Aurus.

    In response to her question, Felix looked at Aurus before looking back at her, saying in response, ¡°This guy absorbed an All-seeing Comprehension Leaf.¡±

    ¡°Seriously? An All-seeing Comprehension Leaf?¡± Surprisingly, even Eleanor was shocked that the being fighting against Felix at this moment had absorbed something as rare as the All-seeing Comprehension Leaf. Nevertheless, rather than look at Aurus with an expression of greed or envy, instead, only a dark expression could be seen on her face as she took on a human form, asking Felix soon after. ¡°So, what¡¯s the n?¡±

    ¡°ording to Argentum, we can¡¯t kill the guy, only defeat him,¡± Felix hastily said in response as he increased the tempo of his attacks, gradually making Aurus more and more susceptible to attacks from external influences. ¡°Argentum, we¡¯ll need your help here.¡±

    ¡°Got it,¡± Argentum nodded as he replied, hastily casting all of the buffs he had in his arsenal to both Felix and Eleanor, increasing the pressure their auras emanated in the surroundings. Unsurprisingly, some of the townspeople near them could not help but look at the current situation in awe and fear. Though, for the most part, the townspeople had moved away from the area after looking for a bit, being told by Delmann and Valstra that their leader was currently apprehending a criminal.

    Seeing that the area was now more or less devoid of innocent people that might get caught up in the battle, Argentum stopped covering the area in a barrier of Lesser Origin, deciding to use his mastery over the element of Lesser Origin on another thing instead.

    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!

    Within seconds, a small orb made out of Lesser Origin started to manifest in front of Argentum as Eleanor backed Felix up, attacking at the very instant an opening was made on Aurus. While doing so, the two of themmunicated with each other through strands of energy, with Felix telling Eleanor, ¡°If only there was a way for us to extract the All-seeing Comprehension Leaf from this guy, then it would be easier for us to defeat him.¡±

    ¡°Yeah. If he didn¡¯t have the ability toprehend everything at greater speeds, then it would definitely be easy to defeat him. Then again, from what I¡¯m sensing, it seems he¡¯s only an X-grade Inanimate?¡± Eleanor said in response, prompting Felix to briefly envelop Aurus in his energy before eximing in surprise, ¡°You¡¯re right. He¡¯s only an X-grade Inanimate. And here I thought he was a high-leveled Pseudo-Animate like us for him to move like that and have that much power.¡±

    ¡°For him to be an X-grade Inanimate and have that much power, then there¡¯s only one exnation for that other than his high-leveled skills,¡± Eleanor could not help but say in response, making the two look at Aurus a bit more seriously as they increased the strength behind their attacks. This time around, they definitely weren¡¯t holding back.

    As for Argentum, the orb of Lesser Origin hovering in front of him had seemingly reached the limit of how big it could be, prompting him to inwardly nod in satisfaction as he poked on the orb, popping it as he, Eleanor, and Felix were soon covered in a shroud of gray light that seemed to protect against any attack aimed at them.

    ¡°[Lesser Origin Magic: Erudite]!¡±

    ¡°[First Blessing: Eir¡¯s Fortitude]!¡±

    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!

    In an instant, both Felix and Eleanor, who were attacking Aurus in tandem, felt like their bodies could do more and achieve more with same amount of power. Not only that, but they also felt like they would be more or less invincible against attacks at the same level as them, perhaps even greater.

    With a hint of surprise and shock on their faces, Argentum went ahead and shouted at them, snapping them back to reality. ¡°I¡¯ve casted a spell on you two that makes you more or less invincible against his attacks. You can truly go all out now!¡±

    ¡°You hear that, Felix? It¡¯s time for us to truly let loose!¡± Eleanor could not help but say with a chuckle as the clothes she wore in her human form gradually transformed into a long robe made out of gray mes that emanated a feeling of demise and death at the same time. Noticing this, Felix could not help but ask, ¡°Are you seriously going all out like that?¡±

    ¡°Well, if you¡¯re going all out, then might as well!¡± he said not long after with a chuckle as ayer of dark blue armor made out of solidified water had appeared on top of Felix¡¯s clothes as the spear he held had transformed to take on a more offensive form. Soon after, he covered the entirety of his spear in magic circles that amplified the attack power of his spear before thrusting out once more, not caring at all if he had aimed at an opening or not.

    ¡°[Tsunami Piercer: Supreme Leviathan Pierce]!¡±

    Whoosh!

    Feeling immense danger from the attacking at him, Aurus hastily used his movement skill to teleport out of the spear¡¯s trajectory, prompting Felix to slightly smirk as he had a feeling that something like this would happen. After all, since Aurus was an X-grade Inanimate, even though he could fight against beings of other levels through various means, it was harder to improve one¡¯s defense. Naturally, such an attack that did not care for anything other than pure offense was bound to break through Aurus¡¯s natural defense and instantly kill him, leaving him no choice but to utilize his movement skill.

    Not being disappointed with Aurus moving out of the way, Felix slightly redirected the trajectory of the spear¡­to aim for Eleanor instead!

    Swoosh!

    Loosening his grip over the spear, the spear amplified to insane degrees of power instantly appeared in front of Eleanor, who hastily grabbed onto it before spreading her gray mes all over it, imbuing with the aura of destruction and death. As she imbued more and more of her power into the spear, she could not help but say to Felix hastily, ¡°I can only stay sane for a few more seconds! You better hold him in ce!¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t worry!¡± Felix eased Eleanor¡¯s worries as the armor he wore instantly expanded in size, transforming into something that looked like the maw of arge beast. Utilizing the rifts he used to teleport, Felix had appeared behind Aurus once more, catching thetter off guard once more as he used his expanded armor to hold Aurus in ce. Wanting to make sure he didn¡¯t escape, he went ahead and cast a spell on Aurus that sealed all of his skills and spells, turning him into amb that was ready for ughter.

    ¡°Now!¡± Seeing as how Felix had already done everything to make sure the attack would connect, Eleanor went ahead and dashed forward at the greatest speed she could muster at her current form, thrusting the spear imbued with gray mes as both water and me intertwined around the spear. At that instant, arge amount of mes were soon expelled from the end of the spear, increasing the prative force of the spear.

    ¡°[Fusion of Samsara and Chaos: Chaotic Leviathan Rhongomyniad]!¡±

    Bang!

    With Aurus being deprived of his ability to move away from the trajectory of the spear, it seemed that his body had decided to make a move on its own, returning Aurus back to his original state as his rationality and logicality took over his body at the veryst minute, realizing that his body had moved by itself once more, which led him to this current situation.

    Closing his sense of vision as he epted the consequences of his actions, even if it was not made consciously, he could not help but be confused as he did not feel any pain whatsoever from the attack that wasing at him, even though he knew he would die for sure. With that in mind, he wondered if he died before his body could even transmit the pain¡­only to remember that he was an Inanimate, which felt no pain in the first ce.

    Curious as to what had happened next, Aurus slowly opened his eyes, only to notice that nothing was binding him anymore, with the two people seeking to destroy him now hovering at one side, allowing him to move as he liked. As he wondered why the two had not done anything else after that, he took a look around his surroundings, only for him to notice another being that he was not expecting to see at this instant.

    ¡°Argentum¡­?¡± Aurus could not help but mutter in surprise. It was only at that moment did he recall through their shared memories that Argentum was in the process of developing a town. Unfortunately, the town his bloodlust had chosen was the town his clone was developing.

    ¡°Why did you kill all of those people?¡± Argentum could not help but ask in response, feeling more and more anger welling up in him. ¡°They were innocent, Argentum. Innocent!¡±

    ¡°I¡­¡± Knowing very well that his actions were wrong, Aurus did not have the courage to look at Argentum in the eye, facing his head down. In the end, Aurus had no other choice than to teleport out of the town, only leaving the three with words of parting.

    ¡°I¡­¡±

    ¡°¡­I¡¯m sorry for everything I¡¯ve done.¡±

 Chapter 383: Espionage

    Chapter 383: Espionage

    Maerr-viki Continent, Seraph Kingdom, inside the royal training grounds.

    Gritting his teeth in anger from the information Dane gave him, Vanadir hastily took in a few deep breaths as he decided to ask a question that was important to his goal at hand. ¡°Do you have any information on what Arshe and that envoy have talked about?¡±

    With a shake of his head, Dane replied, ¡°Unfortunately, we have not obtained much information in that area, Your Highness. Hopefully, I¡¯ll be updatedter this day or tomorrow as to whether or not we have obtained information on what they talked about.¡±

    Vanadir nodded in response as he ced the thought at the back of his head. Since there was nothing they can do on that part, then there was no point thinking about it. Nevertheless, another question formed in his mind, prompting him to ask not long after, ¡°Do any of the other princes know of this information as well?¡±

    Surprisingly, Dane nodded in response to the Ninth Prince¡¯s question, telling thetter, ¡°As far as I know, those that are part of the Third Prince¡¯s alliance have brief knowledge regarding the matter. As for the First Prince, he was actually the one who gave me a heads-up on the situation, Your Highness.¡±

    ¡°So, that means he knows more about what¡¯s going on than I do.¡± Vanadir came to that conclusion. Pondering in silence for a bit, he then told Dane, ¡°Could you ask Zeldrion if it would be possible for the two of us to meet upter?¡±

    Nodding, Dane then did a few gestures with his hands as strands of mana appeared and disappeared in front of him. A few secondster, a couple ofrger mana strands appeared in front of him, prompting him to close his eyes for a bit before looking at the Ninth Prince with a light nod. ¡°The First Prince has responded. He tells me that he is freeter. Now, he¡¯s currently asking for the rendezvous point. Your Highness, where will that be?¡±

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡± Vanadir went silent for a bit as he pondered on where the best ce for them to talk would be. Their meeting at the pavilion was fortunately covered up by their informationworks, but this time around, the chances of them seeding once again would probably be next to nil as the other teams would probably be suspicious. With that, he had to figure out a ce that didn¡¯t seem out of ce for another prince to appear.

    Eventually, the right ce had popped up in his mind, telling Dane with a smile, ¡°Tell Zeldrion that we¡¯ll meet up at the ce where my team member¡¯s birthday party is going to be held. Also, tell him that he has to tell his team members that he¡¯s attending the event because he has something to talk about with me.¡±

    He then continued, ¡°If he asks for the specifics of the location, tell him that I¡¯ll tell him as soon as possible.¡±

    In response, Dane went silent for a bit as he processed the information given to him. Eventually, a question came out of his mouth as he asked, ¡°Your Highness, wouldn¡¯t the others take the First Prince¡¯s words at face value? What if they really think we¡¯re colluding? Wouldn¡¯t our secret alliance be found out?¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s more or less the thing they¡¯re not going to do,¡± Vanadir responded. ¡°Although it is indeed possible for them to take it at face value, since we¡¯re all suspicious of each other, they would mull too much over it and eventually think that it was just a lie to rile them up. The art of reverse psychology can do wonders at the right moments.¡±

    ¡°Right¡­¡± Listening to the Ninth Prince¡¯s exnation, Dane then sent out a message back to the First Prince verbatim, knowing very well that he wouldn¡¯t be able to make it sound any better than what it already was. Fortunately, the First Prince understood the Ninth Prince¡¯s intention, allowing Dane to tell Vanadir that the First Prince was now just waiting for the location of the rendezvous point.

    Nodding, Vanadir then urged Dane that they should catch up to the two, prompting them to use all of their movement speed boosting skills and spells as they tried to track down where Valentia and Griselle had gone. Thankfully, they had only been a few streets away from the pce, allowing the two to catch up within minutes.

    Once they had arrived, both Valentia and Griselle were already carrying a lot of items on both hands. Some of them were even wrapped around their arms, making people wonder as to how they were carrying so much at once. In any case, they weren¡¯t bothered with what they carrying as both of them sported smiles, thinking of the surprise and glee on Erea¡¯s face when she eventually found out that they were going to celebrate her birthday.

    ¡°So, where are we going to hold the party?¡± Vanadir asked, removing his crown as he gave it to Dane, who stored it in a rift.

    ¡°We¡¯re going to hold the party at an inn slightly far away from the pce,¡± Valentia responded before telling the two of them, ¡°Since we¡¯ve already taken care of the foodstuffs and other necessities, how about you two buy the decorations for the party?¡±

    ¡°Alright, we can do that,¡± Vanadir replied with a nod, making Griselle and Valentia nod back with a smile as they soon left for the inn. A few secondster, an expression of panic appeared on Vanadir¡¯s face as he told Dane, ¡°I don¡¯t know what to do. What should we do?¡±

    ¡°Rx, Your Highness,¡± Dane replied, snapping his fingers soon after as his red robe transformed into a set of clothes a normal person would wear. Combine that with his ck-rimmed eyesses, then he had an appearance that would definitely make women stop and stare for a while. ¡°I¡¯ll take care of this.¡±

    After that, Dane started to head towards a certain direction, with Vanadir following behind him. Of course, as they made their way to the location Dane had in mind, Vanadir decided to change his appearance as well, knowing very well that he would easily be recognized since he was a prince.

    With that, he messed up the hairdo he usually sported as he used a bit of mana to slightly modify the shape of his face. Since he had no spell capable of changing appearances, this was as far as he could go. In any case, he was certain that no one would be able to recognize him.

    And so, the two of them eventually arrived in front of arge building after walking for about ten minutes or so. Without hesitation, Dane entered the building while Vanadir followed suit, instantly being greeted by multiple items with shy colors and designs. While Vanadir was still adjusting to the instant bombardment of various colors, Dane silently looked at the various items on sale before picking out a few items that he thought would suit Erea¡¯s tastes.

    He then headed to where the cashier was, who quickly checked through the items before telling Dane, ¡°Your total is 7 silver and 35 copper coins, sir.¡±

    Clink!

    Dropping a gold coin on the counter, Dane grabbed the items as he told the cashier, ¡°Keep the change.¡±

    Coolly, he turned around as he soon left the building. As for Vanadir, he only left the building about a minute or so after Dane left. As for the cashier that attended to Dane, she would never forget the appearance of the man that coolly gave her a gold coin.

    ¡­

    While making their way to the ce that Griselle and Valentia told them, Vanadir finally seemed to have snapped back to reality as he asked Dane, ¡°Have you told Zeldrion where we¡¯re going to meet up yet?¡±

    ¡°Ah, right.¡± In response, Dane hastily sent out a few strands of mana that disappeared a few secondster. Sometimeter along their walk, a couple of mana strands appeared in front of him, prompting him to process the information in them before telling Vanadir with a light smile, ¡°The First Prince has told me that he¡¯ll be there, Your Highness.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s great, then,¡± Vanadir said with a light smile. ¡°In any case, let¡¯s hurry up. We shouldn¡¯t let Griselle and the others wait for us.¡±

    With a nod, the two then sped up their paces as they soon arrived at the inn around twenty minutes after they bought the decorations, opening the door to the inn that was surprisingly empty.

    ¡°Did you guys rent out this whole inn out for the day?¡± Vanadir could not help but ask, to which Griselle nodded with a smile. ¡°Yep. Even asked the chefs to stay for the night. Of course, I paid them a premium.¡±

    ¡°Now, how about those decorations you bou¡ª¡± Just as Griselle was about to grab the decorations Dane and Vanadir bought, they instantly noticed how contrasting the decorations they picked werepared to how Griselle and Valentia were nning Erea¡¯s birthday party out. Without hesitation, Griselle let out a sigh as she brought out another set of decorations while saying, ¡°We appreciate the effort, but¡­how about you two help out on something else instead?¡±

    With both of them scratching their heads, Dane and Vanadir went ahead and helped out in other areas that needed more hands. Eventually, the whole inn was set up for what seemed to be an extravagant birthday party. The only thing missing from the party was the celebrant herself.

    Realizing that, Griselle, Valentia, and Vanadir stared at Dane, who bitterly smiled as he snapped his fingers to return to his red robe. After that, he disappeared from the inn, only toe back a few minutester with a girl apanying him.

    Currently, the girl had her eyes closed as she asked, ¡°Teacher, where did you bring me?¡±

    With a chuckle, Dane replied, ¡°Take a look and see for yourself, Erea.¡±

    Hearing those words, Erea opened her eyes, only to be greeted by a great sight as Vanadir and the others told her great wishes on her birthday. Naturally, Erea was left at a loss for words. Nevertheless, she was d that someone was celebrating her birthday, something she had spent for the greater portion of her life alone.

    Of course, multiple things had happened over the course of the birthday party, with great food to eat and great people apanying them. By the time the party was over, nighttime had already arrived, prompting Dane to teleport Erea back to the Arcana Tower since they had a curfew for the younger mages in the tower. As for Valentia and Griselle, they were notified by Vanadir on what they were about to do, allowing the two to understand as they headed back to the royal pce.

    With that, only Dane and Vanadir were left in the inn, save for a few staff that were cleaning the dirty kitchens. After a few minutes of silence, a knock could be heard on the door to the inn, which prompted Dane to open it. Unsurprisingly, the person behind the door was the First Prince, who had a light smile on his face as he noticed the aftermath of the birthday party.

    ¡°Did your team member have fun?¡± he asked, to which Vanadir said in response, ¡°I sure hope she did.¡±

    ¡°Anyways, let¡¯s head to a private room,¡± he continued, motioning for the First Prince to follow him and Dane. Eventually, they had arrived at a ce where no one could listen in on their conversation, allowing Zeldrion to let out a sigh of relief as he said, ¡°Alright then. Let¡¯s go down to business.¡±

    ¡°What do you want to know regarding the Third Prince and the envoy?¡±

    ¡°Everything you know,¡± Vanadir replied, with Dane standing behind him. Hearing those words, Zeldrion could not help but let out a chuckle as he responded, ¡°I knew you were going to say that, but unfortunately for you, I¡¯m at the same ce as you when ites to information like the topic they talked about.¡±

    ¡°So¡­this meeting was actually useless?¡± The Ninth Prince could not help but let out a sigh in response to those words. Though, the First Prince wasn¡¯t dismayed by this. Instead, a grin could be seen on his face, prompting Vanadir to ask, ¡°Did you have another motive in mind when you agreed to this meeting?¡±

    ¡°Indeed, I did.¡± Zeldrion nodded before asking Vanadir a question that truly left him at a loss for words.

    ¡°Since we don¡¯t know anything too private regarding the Third Prince¡­¡±

    ¡°How about we nt a spy into their team?¡±

 Chapter 384: No Turning Back

    Chapter 384: No Turning Back

    Whoosh!

    As Aurus disappeared from the sights of the three, Felix and Eleanor initially had the thought of following him, knowing very well that they could definitely do so with the level of power they had. But as they looked at Argentum standing there in a daze, the two decided to stay put, wanting to know what was going inside Argentum¡¯s mind.

    Naturally, he was seething with rage, seeing how his original body had gone ahead and killed people that would help out in his goal to establish a ce for them to live in without worries. Though, the more he thought about it, the more peculiar the incident felt to him. From what he felt, Aurus was definitely there in body. But as for his spirit, he felt like it was not even there, as if another being was piloting his body while he was away.

    In any case, he knew that all of his doubts would be solved once he met up with Aurus once again, deciding to ce these thoughts and grudges at the back of his head as he decided to focus on the current matter at hand, appeasing the people of the town.

    Seeing that Argentum had returned to reality once more, Felix and Eleanor looked at each other for a bit before Felix decided to ask, ¡°Are you alright, Argentum?¡±

    ¡°Yeah, I¡¯m alright. I¡¯m just a bit¡­confused,¡± Argentum responded, albeit a bit meekly. Nevertheless, Eleanor ignored that as she decided to ask the question that both of them had all this time. ¡°While we were fighting against him, you told us not to kill him. Is there a reason as to why you asked us that?¡±

    Hearing the question, Argentum went silent, pondering as to whether or not to tell them. Eventually, he decided to go with the former, having an idea of their personalities after interacting with them for so many times. Even though the answer was something only he and a select others knew, to him, it felt like it was time to tell a few more beings about it.

    With a hint of hesitation, he then exined, ¡°The reason behind that is because¡­¡±

    ¡°Aurus¡­is my creator.¡±

    ¡°Your¡­creator?¡± Eleanor said in response, not understanding what he meant by that. ¡°So you¡¯re saying you¡¯re his puppet or something? But you¡¯re a Pseudo-Animate, no? Isn¡¯t he just an Inanimate?¡±

    Fortunately, Felix understood what Argentum meant, saying, ¡°What he¡¯s probably saying is that Aurus is the one that gave him life in this world. I don¡¯t know what kind of method he used to do something like that, but is there anything else we should know about you and him?¡±

    Seeing that they were somewhat epting of the new fact, Argentum became a bit more at ease as he replied, ¡°He and I share the same thoughts and memories. If you disregard my body, then you could say that I¡¯m an exact copy of him.¡±

    Of course, Aurus had originally made Argentum as an Animate version of himself, an independent clone of sorts. But after knowing the true nature of the skill, which instead infused the thoughts and memories of Aurus into a Pseudo-Animate vessel, it was more urate for Argentum to exin it that way to them. Naturally, both Felix and Eleanor went silent as they tried to understand his words piece by piece through their own means.

    Eventually, a gaze of understanding appeared in both of them as they lightly nodded to Argentum, showing that they now had an idea in their minds. After that, Felix asked Argentum, ¡°So, how did Aurus end up that way? Surely you know how that happened since you two share thoughts, right?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s more of an active ability for me to share thoughts and memories with him. Unfortunately, throughout these past couple of weeks, I waspletely immersed in the development of the town, which means that I have no idea as to how Aurus turned out like that,¡± Argentum replied. ¡°Though, his crazed state reminds me of¡­¡±

    Just as he was about to continue talking, he realized that his next words were only something he, Aurus, and other person knew. Thinking of the multiple possibilities that might happen if he also spread it to others, he decided to stop, prompting Felix to ask with a hint of impatience, ¡°Of¡­what? Is it something we should know?¡±

    ¡°Uh¡­just disregard myst statement,¡± Argentum said, to which Felix narrowed his eyes in suspicion for a second. Eventually, he shrugged his shoulders, deciding to leave it be as he knew people had their secrets. As for Argentum, he could not help but mutter inwardly, ¡®Only now did it ur to me that Aurus¡¯s state was simr to the prophecy Torvas gave me. If that¡¯s the case, then how should I help out?¡¯

    ¡®Now that I think about it, Torvas didn¡¯t tell me any way to help Aurus out so that he could escape the prophecy,¡¯ he continued. ¡®I should probably pay a visit to the Origin Pantheon once I have the time. Let¡¯s just hope the problem doesn¡¯t worsen.¡¯

    ¡°So, what¡¯s the next order of business?¡± Noticing the awkward tension between the two, Eleanor decided to ask to break the silence, making the two look at her with a hint of gratitude in their gazes. Pondering about it for a bit, Argentum responded, ¡°Well, we¡¯ll have to appease the anger of the people, telling them that you two were able to apprehend the culprit.¡±

    He then continued, ¡°After that, I¡¯ll probably announce the establishment of a defensive barrier around the town so that something like this wouldn¡¯t happen again. Though, you two should hide your faces since the townspeople don¡¯t know of your identities yet.¡±

    ¡°Speaking of which¡­¡± As he said that, it was only at this moment that another person popped up in his mind, a person that apanied him before he decided to join Delmann and Valstra. ¡°I¡¯m pretty sure Helios was in this town while Aurus was around. Where is he?¡±

    ¡°Achoo!¡± And thus, in another part of Verdant Breeze Town, a dashing young man could not help but sneeze, wondering who was talking about his highly esteemed self.

    ¡­

    While Argentum and the others were nning out their next course of action for the development of the town, Aurus continued to teleport farther away from the town his clone was developing, a great amount of guilt and regret filling up his body as he continued toment, ¡°Why? Why did that have to ur in a town with a being I know?¡±

    ¡°Have the heavens given up on me? Does it want to see me fall prey to this primal instinct of mine?¡± he continued to exim out loudly, venting out all of the frustrations and grievances brought about by the instinct he had awakened. Sure, it had the ability to increase his progress regarding theprehension of his Epiphany at great speeds. Unfortunately, it had the cost of lives, may they be innocent or guilty, just like him.

    But eventually, after teleporting for quite some time, he had lost the energy to move anymore, appearing about ten kilometers away from what seemed to be a settlement far smaller than the town his clone Argentum was in. Seeing how he had appeared near yet another settlement, the rational side of his mind instantly reined in on his instinctual side, trying to suppress his uncontroble urges to kill as much as possible.

    Fortunately, it was at this moment that he truly realized that this instinct he had awakened would bring more harm to him than actual benefit. Back then, he had just shrugged it off, thinking that it was a necessary side effect for the progress of his power. But only after truly killing innocent people and being seen by his clone did it finally weigh down on him.

    ¡°Aurus, you must control yourself,¡± he muttered over and over, as if chanting a mantra that helped suppress the primal instinct trying to awaken in his body. ¡°There¡¯s no point in killing a great amount of innocent people. Guilt and regret shall be the only result you¡¯ll obtain once you do so.¡±

    ¡°There are many other ways to enhance your power, Aurus. You still have a lot of skills that you haven¡¯t reached the max level and grade in yet.¡± As he continued, he gradually deluded himself, which surprisingly helped in suppressing the primal instinct from awakening. Though surprisingly, once he took another look at the vige not far away from him, the shackles that he had seemingly ced on the instinct all broke at once, taunting him that he was going to lose all control again.

    Naturally, he hastily suppressed the feeling with words filled with the intent to distract himself. He even went so far as to turn his body to face opposite the vige, making sure that his body wouldn¡¯t be able to see the vige, and in turn, think about the people he could ughter that would help improve the strength of hisprehension.

    But unfortunately, as if the heavens were helping his primal instinct, Aurus could not help but take a quick peek at the vige, instantly making his body rotate as he dashed towards it at the fastest speed he could muster. Seeing how he had lost control over his body, Aurus hastily tried to gain control back, thankfully stopping around five kilometers away before he had arrived at the vige proper.

    ¡°You must not do this, Aurus. There are other beings out there that you can y, which have rued a ton of sins and faults throughout their lives. They¡¯re a far better choice to ypared to a hundred or so innocent people,¡± he told himself¡­only for an intrusive thought to tell him, ¡°But wouldn¡¯t killing a hundred innocent people bring you more delight than killing a single vile being?¡±

    ¡°Who said that?¡± Aurus asked in response¡­or so he tried. At this moment, it seemed like all of his rational thoughts had be locked inside onepartment of his mind while the intrusive thoughts continued to fester throughout his mind.

    ¡°Don¡¯t fool yourself, Aurus. To achieve greater power and reach Divinity at a faster rate, the ying of arge number of innocent people is a necessary sacrifice for a great being like you. You shouldn¡¯t be shackled by such trifling matters like morality and guilt. In the face of greater power, you should not limit yourself.¡±

    As more and more intrusive thoughts like that continued to pop up in his mind, the rational side of Aurus continued to try and fight back, yet he had not be sessful. Instead, with every additional intrusive thought that popped up in his mind, his rational side would gradually be weaker. Eventually, there were so much intrusive thoughts in his mind that supported the awakening of his primal instinct that his rational side had just¡­

    Disappeared.

    Pop!

    As if it was a response to his rational side disappearing, the luminance of his jade green skin immediately disappeared, turning his jade-like body into a dull jade sculpture of the past. Though, amidst theckluster surface, one could sense an aura that surpassed what one would sense even from the worst of the worst beings to walk on the world of Erudinia. An aura of killing intent, seeminglying from the origin of the universe itself.

    Losing all senses of morality and rationality, Aurus nkly stared at the vige five kilometers away from him before going ahead and using his movement skill to teleport his way into it. As he arrived at the center of the vige, he noticed that all of the houses had their lights off, telling Aurus that all of them were asleep¡­

    Leaving them vulnerable for the ughter that was about to happen.

    As he infused his body with a great amount of Wind energy particles, he then went through the houses one by one and started to kill them in the quickest yet most bizarre ways possible, allowing his primal instincts to show another part of itself, a part that sought pleasure from the uniqueness of each kill.

    Of course, it was apparent at this moment that for Aurus, there was no more turning back.

 Chapter 385: The Beginning of the End

    Chapter 385: The Beginning of the End

    As Aurus continued to hack and sh through the sleeping people of the vige one by one, the manner in which he killed them gradually grew more grotesque as time passed. At first, he would probably be satisfied with only killing them through a simple decapitation, wanting to obtain the Wind energy particles that came out of it as fast as possible. Though, for some reason, as if another instinct rted to the primal instinct of bloodlust had awakened, this didn¡¯t continue for long.

    By the time around 25% of the people in the houses were now dead, the method in which he killed them now started with him cutting off their limbs, waking them up from their peaceful slumber, only for them to scream out in agonizing pain. Unfortunately for them, they wouldn¡¯t be able to voice out their suffering as they would soon be decapitated the very next second. For those that lived alone, it was not a problem. But for those that had loved ones in their houses, those that werest to be killed definitely had a traumatic experience before being killed off as well.

    When the number of people killed in the vige had already reached 75% of its total poption, a scream was eventually heard resounding throughout the vige, stemming from the fact that Aurus had decided to inflict multiplecerations on the person before cutting off the person¡¯s limbs. Though, just before Aurus could inflict the final blow that would allow the person to meet its demise, the person hurriedly ducked its head to save itself some time to warn the others. With the person¡¯s sacrifice, the remaining poption of the vige had been alerted of what was happening.

    As the remaining people got out of their houses, they noticed that only a quarter of the houses in their vige had their lights on, prompting them to hurriedly search through the houses that still had their lights off. Inside, all of them were met by the most gruesome sights in their lives.

    Some of them had only seen simple decapitations with tons of blood flowing everywhere, but in some houses, blood could be seen sttered everywhere as the victim¡¯s limbs were shoved into the victim¡¯s orifices. Nevertheless, to these vige people, who hadn¡¯t even seen violence of this level, their wills instantly crumbled, wondering what kind of maniacal person would do something like this.

    Fortunately, or unfortunately for them, the culprit that killed their people had soon appeared in front of them, radiating an aura simr to those that brought death and destruction wherever they went. Without hesitation, those that had the ability to fight stood in front of the culprit, while those who were fearful for their lives or those that couldn¡¯t fight hastily fled away from the vige, not wanting to imagine themselves being the next target of the culprit.

    Of course, to Aurus, whether or not the remaining people fled for their lives did not matter to him. As he checked how much he hadprehended his Epiphany, he had already reached Level 16, a decent jumppared to what it was before. Although he had lost all rationality, he knew that he would be able to catch all of those fleeing before they could get too far.

    Then again, he still had to take care of the people currently in front of him, wanting to defend their vige. Naturally, in front of Aurus, who was currently covered in the various blood of people he killed, theirst ditch defense was purely a futile effort. Manifesting a ball of wind over his right palm, he then threw it at those wanting to fight against him.

    Due to how his abilities had been enhanced by the Epiphany, the ball of wind did not even register in the sights of the people as the ball soon exploded, turning all of the people in an unrecognizable amalgamation of tattered flesh, muscle, and blood. After that, Aurus utilized his teleportation skill, appearing in front of the fleeing people like the grim reaper before swiftly ending their lives with a simple swipe along their necks.

    After making sure that he had taken care of all the people that had fled the vige, he then checked how much hisprehension over his Epiphany had improved, reaching the level of 17 after killing all of the people from the random vige he appeared in front of. Allowing his instincts to make the next move, he then utilized his teleportation skill to head towards another vige, making sure to skip over any town or city he passed by.

    Surprisingly, even though Aurus¡¯s rational side had already disappeared, the primal instinct in his body seemed to have gained a sense of rationality of its own, warning his body that he wouldn¡¯t be able to eradicate all of the people inside a town or a city just yet. Nevertheless, he was certain that he would be able to do so once he killed a few more people¡­if a thousand was a few.

    Whoosh!

    Since he had a teleportation skill, he soon appeared the second vige he would eradicate within ten minutes due to its proximity from the first vige. Though surprisingly, by the time he had arrived there, all of the people in that vige were already at the front gates, waiting for his arrival to take revenge on the previous vige that was eradicated.

    Naturally, Aurus was quite surprised to see this, though such emotion couldn¡¯t be seen on the outside. As for the vigers, they all look at the being in front of them covered in dried blood with seething rage, only knowing of the identity of the being due to one of the vigers warning them of this being before they died.

    ¡°Go back to where you came!¡± one of the vigers could not help but shout as they noticed Aurus just standing in ce, thinking that thetter was fearful that a lot of people had banded up to fight against him. Soon after, the other vigers gained more confidence after seeing him not move for even longer, throwing out jeers and boorish remarks that would even put drunkards at inns to shame. Well, if one were to know of such a catastrophic event happening near them, then it would be no surprise that one would not hold back on the curses.

    Unfortunately for them, Aurus did not care as to whether they want to capture and torture him or submit him to pain equivalent to the number of people that died under his hands. Instead, he was just thinking of the simplest yet most gruesome way to eradicate all of the people in this vige at once.

    Although he sought pleasure in killing, that was only when the person was vulnerable, or so the primal instinct said. The thing that his body greatly prioritized at the moment was his survival. With that, he teleported above all of the people that had gathered in front of the vige before conjuring a ball of wind at least five times asrge as the one he threw at the first vige.

    After infusing more and more Wind energy particles into it, he eventually threw it at the center of the vige, causing arge explosion that was in no way inferior to the strong explosives of the modern age. Within an instant, the second vige was eradicated to the point that only a crater remained, signifying the fact that there used to be a vige on top of the crater. As for the lucky ones that were barely out of the wind ball¡¯s range¡­only their upper torsos remained.

    Not long after, a great amount of Wind energy particles that even someone at Tempest Cliff wouldn¡¯t be able to rue had surrounded Aurus like bees swarming a nest. These Wind energy particles were then absorbed by him, transforming them into more experience that would increase hisprehension over his Epiphany. By the time he had finished absorbing all of those Wind energy particles, hisprehension had already reached Level 21, over 20% of the way to reaching the highest level an Epiphany could beprehended.

    Making sure that he would be able to use all of the strength he had obtained from increasing his Epiphany, he then did a few movements that would use up all of his energy, taking around a couple of hours to eventually feel like he could use all of it. With that, he then teleported to the next vige, this time at greater speed.

    Whoosh!

    Naturally, with news regarding the previous viges, the third vige was no different from the state of the previous one. Almost all of the able-bodied vigers were at the front of vige, thinking of themselves as responsible for the safety of the other vigers. Surprisingly, there was also a slight change to the vigers themselves.

    Before, the people that Aurus had killed had no strength whatsoever to speak of. At the first vige, the strongest being among them was near the peak of what a Rank 1 ss holder could achieve. For the second vige, the greatest strength had reached the level of a Rank 2 ss holder. As for this vige, there were surprisingly a few people at the peak level of Rank 2 while a couple of people had even reached the strength of a Rank 3 ss holder!

    If it was any other person, seeing a Rank 3 ss holder in a small vige like this would make them fearful, wondering why the vige hadn¡¯t be a town yet under the leadership of this great strength. But to Aurus, only one thought lingered in his mind when he realized that.

    ¡®Oh. More experience.¡¯

    Swoosh!

    Without holding back, Aurus decided to kill all of them with arge de made of wind, making one swift horizontal sh as all of the people were bisected, even the buildings. After that, he decided to rain down des of wind on the vige, wanting to make sure that he had obtained all of the Wind energy particles he could get from the vige.

    And with that, Aurus had eradicated his third vige, with the first one ending up in a state of abandonment, the second one totally gone, and this current one in a state of tatters. Checking that hisprehension level was halfway to reaching Level 25, he decided to stay at the vige to adjust to the strength before continuing onto the next vige in mind.

    After doing so, he then left for the fourth vige, aiming to eradicate at least five viges before aiming for therger towns.

    ¡­

    While a great portion of the viges near the destroyed three were in a state of turmoil and panic, one of the nearby towns had obtained an urgent report from one of the panicking viges, being notified of the being that was going around and destroying viges left and right.

    Red Juniper Town, inside the town¡¯s only manor.

    Although most of the people in this town were fast asleep, the only manor in town had all its lights open, showing that the town¡¯s leader was wide awake.

    Knock. Knock. Knock.

    ¡°Come in,¡± the voice of a middle-aged man resounded from the other side of a door, prompting the young boy that knocked to enter with haste. Entering the room, the young boy could see a middle-aged man sitting in front of a desk, reading a book with the light in the room on.

    Closing the book as he noticed the young boy¡¯s fearful expression, the town leader looked at him and asked, ¡°What¡¯s wrong? What information did you guys from the information center receive?¡±

    The young boy, who was a part of the information center the town leader mentioned, lightly nodded as he tried his best to not stumble over his words. ¡°We¡¯ve obtained reports that Delverid Vige, Ferunel Vige, and Maratisk Vige have been destroyed by a single person within these past few hours. Other sources have said that the person is heading to another vige to destroy them, or perhaps destroy all of the viges within our vicinity.¡±

    ¡°W-what should we do, leader? They¡¯re asking us for reinforcements, so should we give them some?¡± the young boy asked, prompting the town leader to remain silent as he pondered over the whole situation. Eventually, the town leader let out a sigh as he responded, ¡°Although it pains me to say this, there is no need to give them reinforcements.¡±

    ¡°Eh? Why?¡± The young boy asked in response.

    With an as a matter-of-fact tone, the town leader replied, ¡°Because they won¡¯t need them.¡±

 Chapter 386: The Great Calamity

    Chapter 386: The Great Cmity

    ¡°Huh?¡± Naturally, the reason the town leader gave made the young boy even more confused than he already was, not knowing the town leader¡¯s train of thought. In response, the town leader could not help but scratch his head as he said, ¡°Once you get back to the information center, don¡¯t tell them I told you this, okay?¡±

    ¡°A-alright¡­¡± Seeing that the town leader was going to make him privy to one of his secrets, the young boy swore to never ever tell the secret to another person. Nodding, the town leader then said, ¡°I haven¡¯t told anyone about this yet, but¡­I have the ability of divination. It¡¯s the reason why our town is as prosperous as it is.¡±

    ¡°Is divination that ability where you could predict the future, leader?¡± the young boy asked, to which the town leader replied, ¡°That exact ability.¡±

    ¡°So, you can actually see the future of our town, leader?¡± the young boy asked yet again, this time his expression was that of wonder. In response to the boy¡¯s question, the town leader shook his head. ¡°I can¡¯t see the future of the town per se, but I can see the general things that are going to happen to the town in the future. Using your words, I can only predict the future, not know it.¡±

    ¡°How is your divination ability rted to the situation with the reinforcements, leader?¡± the young boy asked yet one more time, but the town leader only smiled in response to his question. Naturally, the young boy was curious as to what the answer was, but seeing as the town leader only smiled at him, the young boy went silent as he wracked his brain to think up of a possible answer, eventually realizing what the town leader had done¡­he thought.

    Unsure of his thought, he asked, ¡°Did you use your divination ability over the remaining viges in our vicinity?¡± The town leader nodded in response.

    ¡°Did¡­you not see any incident of more viges being destroyed while using your divination ability?¡± he continued, to which the town leader replied, ¡°I¡¯ve got a feeling that person would only destroy a couple more, and that would be all.¡±

    ¡°So, other than those couple viges you¡¯ve mentioned, the remaining viges would be left unharmed?¡± the young boy asked to rify his doubts. In response, the town leader nodded in agreement. It was only then that the young boy finally understood why the viges wouldn¡¯t need reinforcements¡­only to recall the couple of viges that would still be destroyed by the person ording to their town leader¡¯s divination.

    ¡°Wait¡­that doesn¡¯t make sense. Leader, you told me that a couple more viges would be destroyed, yet you¡¯re not sending reinforcements.¡± The more the young boy thought about it, the more peculiar it felt. Eventually, another thought formed in his mind, instantly returning his expression to that of panic as he asked the town leader, hoping it wasn¡¯t true, ¡°Did the town leader predict that the person woulde to our Red Juniper Town.¡±

    In response, the town leader only nodded slowly, his expression gradually turning grim. As for the young boy, he could not help but get down on his knees, losing grip over his sanity for a while beforeing back to reality. After that, he made his way back to the door leading to the town leader¡¯s room, asking before he left, ¡°Should I also tell the other towns about it?¡±

    ¡°Go ahead,¡± the town leader said as he nodded.

    With that, the young boy nodded in response to the town leader¡¯s words before he took his leave, allowing the town leader to be alone once more. Though, rather than returning to read his book, he instead looked out the window behind his office table, letting out a sigh as he muttered, ¡°There may be a chance that this town won¡¯t exist in the morning.¡±

    ¡°I guess I should start enacting that n, then.¡±

    ¡­

    While that was happening in one of the nearby towns, Aurus had fully destroyed two more viges before the sun peeked out of the horizon. At the moment, his strength was far greater than what it had been the day before, hisprehension over the Epiphany now being at Level 30.

    Standing on a road filled to the brim with shards of bones, Aurus soon infused his one of his hands with Wind energy particles, clenching it before punching out. In an instant, arge shockwave had appeared as a result of the punch, destroying half of the houses in the current vige he was in before utilizing his teleportation skill to disappear from the ce. Surprisingly, he didn¡¯t bother destroying the remaining half of the vige houses at all.

    In any case, Aurus now had the confidence that he would be able to eradicate all of the beings in a town in one move if need be now that hisprehension was at Level 30. Sure, he could have headed to a town first before a vige at his previous strength and there would be no problem for his survival. But to the mind of his primal instinct, doing such a thing would just alertrger andrger towns to help a town out and eventually, a reinforcement that had the ability to eradicate him would appear.

    That was the reason why Aurus aimed for the viges first rather than heading straight into a town. He wanted to assure that he had a chance of survival against beings that had the ability to kill him in one hit.

    cing those thoughts at the back of his head, he eventually arrived at a nearby town, appearing in front of its entrance gates as he read therge sign on top of the gate.

    ¡°Red Juniper Town¡­¡± he muttered, his voice hoarse and grim unlike his previous. After that, he used his teleportation skill to dart around the hidden areas of town, deciding to take a safer approach for now since it seemed that the town he entered had not been alerted of his existence yet, unlike the previous viges he had destroyed.

    With that, he lured most of his victims through the maniption of Wind energy particles, using the same technique he used back then in Verdant Breeze Town wherein he used the wind to blow away an item or an important thing farther and farther away from the person that carried the item, eventually bringing them into an alleyway or a secluded corner of town.

    Since it was daytime, he had to be more careful than ever before since he wasn¡¯t being shrouded by the darkness of the night anymore. Not only that, but his body was covered in dried-up blood, which would definitely make anyone looking at him shiver in fear. Nevertheless, he was still sessful in killing a few people using the technique, eventually instilling fear into all of the townspeople in Red Juniper Town within an hour or so.

    To Aurus, it would be beneficial if he could kill all of the townspeople one by one since that would not alert any other towns of his existence, allowing him to do the same thing on other towns. Though, as if the heavens did not want that to happen, one of the town¡¯s guards doing their usual patrol around town hade across Aurus decapitating an innocent person at the end of an alleyway. Without hesitation, he chased Aurus, only to fail as thetter teleported away to another part of town.

    Surprisingly, even though the guard had not been able to capture Aurus, he was not dismayed. Instead, ayer of fear slightly covered his body as he grabbed a special device out of his pocket to contact someone, telling the person that was listening on the other side of the device, ¡°The culprit the town leader has ced his eye on has finally arrived at our town.¡±

    After a few seconds of silence, a voice resounded from the special device, telling the guard, ¡°Alright, good work. You can head back to the manor now. Also, tell the other guards to make sure the townspeople are in their houses at all times. Make sure to tell the town leader what you saw.¡±

    ¡°I will,¡± the guard responded before cing the special device back into his pocket. After that, he used up all his strength to head back to the manor as fast as possible, making sure to use themunication device they had as guards to tell the other guards to alert the townspeople of what was about to happen.

    ¡­

    As time passed, Aurus eventually noticed that the number of people he could lead into alleyways to kill them was gradually decreasing. By the time an hour or two had passed, no people were strolling through the streets anymore, as if someone or something had alerted all of the townspeople of his presence.

    Fortunately for him, after waiting for a few more minutes, watching for people to kill along the wider streets of the town, a seemingly lost young man had finally appeared in front of him, with Aurus instantly eyeing him as prey.

    Utilizing the same tactic as before, he was able to lead the young man to one of the alleyways, having great confidence that he would be able to kill the young man within one hit. Though surprisingly, just as he was about to swoop down and end the young man¡¯s life with a simple sh to the neck, Aurus felt a presence standing behind his back, radiating an imposing aura befitting that of a leader.

    Gradually looking behind him, the sight of a middle-aged man with an amicable smile soon appeared in front of his field of vision, with the middle-aged man even going so far as to tell Aurus, ¡°Hello there.¡±

    Bang!

    Without hesitation, the middle-aged man threw a straight jab at Aurus¡¯s face, not holding back on his strength whatsoever. Surprisingly, Aurus was sent flying by the attack, surprising the middle-aged man, as well as the great number that had apanied the man as they surrounded Aurus. Naturally, the middle-aged man was the town leader, while the people that apanied him were the town¡¯s guards.

    Since they were a prosperous town, they were able to invest a lot of resources into their guards, with all of them being peak level Rank 3 ss holders. In fact, some of them had even broken through the barrier and reached the level of a Rank 4 ss holder. As for the town leader, he was in a ss of his own, being a Rank 5 ss holder!

    If one were topare the various strengths of the town leaders in Maerr-viki Continent, then he would definitely be amongst one of the top, being only one step away from breaking through the so-called ¡°Heavenly Barrier¡±.

    Seeing that they had the advantage against Aurus since they caught him off guard, the town leader instantly dashed to where Aurus wouldnd being going ahead and pummeling him down to the ground, slowly but surely making a crater in the process. Eventually, the town leader was finished with his barrage of attacks, allowing the town¡¯s guards that came along with him tond their attacks on Aurus, deciding to release the rage they felt from what the viges had gone through in the form of these attacks.

    Eventually, all of the guards had unleashed their attacks. With Aurus not moving whatsoever after all of those attacks, the guards, as well as the town leader, thought that the other towns would be safe from the problem that was this person in front of them. But, in a rather cliche turn of events, Aurus gradually stood up from the crater, moving as if he had not rued any injuries from multiple attacks at all.

    In an instant, the great confidence all of them amassed from seeing Aurus being beaten down was shattered with one move. Even the town leader was not exempt from this feeling, even going so far as to feel great horror while looking at the being in front of him covered up in dried blood.

    After looking at each other in silence for a bit, the town leader eventually decided to ask Aurus, ¡°Who¡­are you?¡±

    In response, Aurus went silent as a de of wind manifested around his right hand. Then, with a swift sh, the town leader was quickly decapitated as a hoarse yet grim voice resounded from him.

    ¡°You can call me¡­¡±

    ¡°The Great Cmity.¡±

 Chapter 387: Attention from All Sides

    Chapter 387: Attention from All Sides

    Normally, whenever someone called themselves something like ¡°The Great Cmity¡±, multiple people would justugh it off, thinking that the person was some sort of lunatic or someone with eighth-grader syndrome. Though, when these words came out from a person that truly had the ability to kill all of them at once, the guards that were surrounding their town leader, who was killed just now, instantly thought of this name as fitting.

    Nevertheless, as the guards of Red Juniper Town, they were tasked toy their lives for the town and protect its inhabitants for as long as they could. With that, they gritted their teeth as they held on tightly to their weapons, knowing fully well that a fight like this would only be a futile effort on their behalf. Even if they knew it was futile, they would still do it, just to buy them some time.

    And so, one of the guards immediately shouted that the townspeople should flee as far as they could, only for a barrier of wind to appear in front of that guard, blocking the message from spreading out. Seeing as how the townspeople also weren¡¯t being spared in front of this person, the guards instantly made up their minds as they charged as one, using all of their ultimate skills from the get-go.

    Of course, to someone like Aurus, who had the power of a Pseudo-Transcendent, possibly even beyond that right now, the barrage of attacksing from multiple Rank 3 ss holders was nothing. With the help of barriers, which he gradually got used to again with his primal instinct focusing on his survival, all of the attacks the guards threw at him were instantly nullified, bringing even more despair to the guards that just wanted this nightmare to end.

    Though, for some, they saw this as a challenge they had to surpass if they wanted to reach greater heights. Surprisingly, some of the guards that were at the peak of Rank 3 had broken through the next rank after, undergoing a massive boost in strength as they charged forward, hoping that their attacks would at least injure Aurus slightly.

    Unfortunately, even with their increased strength, they weren¡¯t able to inflict any damage to Aurus at all. Eventually, Aurus decided that he had enough of the attacks from the guards, thinking that he was just advertising to others that he was still here in Red Juniper Town. With such a thought in mind, he quickly conjured arge de of wind before swiping it along the guards surrounding him, bisecting them into two as they gradually lost their vitality.

    Soon after, arge swath of Wind energy particles surrounded Aurus just like before. Though, rather than absorbing all of them right now, he instead teleported to the center of the town before ascending over a few hundred meters in altitude. Thinking that the altitude he was on was sufficient, he then conjured yet another ball of wind, this time using some of the Wind energy particles he had obtained from killing the guards.

    Slowly but surely, the ball of wind grew to the size of the same ball of wind he threw at the second vige. Of course, since Aurus was dealing with a town, he knew that the size of the ball wasn¡¯t enough yet. With that, he infused more Wind energy particles into it, even going so far as to add spin to it to increase its power.

    Eventually, the ball of wind had reached the size of a normal two-story house. Looking at it, Aurus felt that the destructive power behind it was now sufficient, throwing it down without hesitation as an explosion simr to a nuclear bomb had soon urred.

    Bang!

    In an instant, all of the buildings and walls scattered throughout Red Juniper Town had been ttened before being disintegrated into rubble, including the people that were inside them, thinking that they were safe from Aurus. Of course, such arge explosion also had aftereffects on its surroundings, with multiple cracks spreading out from the town to as far as 10 kilometers away as a crater farrger than the previous one he made appeared in front of his field of vision as the dust settled down.

    It was only then did he absorb the Wind energy particles that came about after killing all of the inhabitants in Red Juniper Town. By the time he was done absorbing them, he checked the level of hisprehension, somewhat dismayed that it had only gone up to Level 33.

    Then again, there was not much he could do on that part other than to kill more people. Even his primal instinct thought that it would be detrimental for him to be hasty, wanting him to increase hisprehension first through eradicating towns. When the speed of his improvement slowed down, only then would he start to eradicate cities.

    And so, after bing ustomed to his newfound strength, he then teleported to another town, eager to kill all of its inhabitants for the improvement of hisbat power.

    ¡­

    While Aurus was in the process of heading to another town, a piece of news soon spread throughout Verdant Breeze Town, the town Argentum, Felix, and Eleanor were currently in.

    Surprisingly, after Aurus escaped from their clutches, Felix and Eleanor decided to stay with Argentum to make sure that nothing like that ever happened to the town for a while. Of course, they made sure to shroud their faces from other people while doing so. Nevertheless, it was apparent that they were popr as rumors of a beautiful couple started to pop up here and there throughout town.

    At the moment, Argentum, Felix, and Eleanor were talking with a few mages Felix had found from a nearby city, talking about the costs of a defensive barrier being built around town.

    ¡°Then¡­how much would it cost if I asked for a defensive barrier that could defend against one hit of a Rank 5 ss holder?¡± Argentum asked, to which one of the mages hastily replied, ¡°About 10,000 gold coins.¡±

    Hearing that, Argentum looked at Felix, prompting thetter to say, ¡°Can¡¯t you set the price any lower, guys? If you do, I¡¯ll treat you to some food and booze once we get back.¡±

    ¡°Although the offer is quite tempting, we¡¯re still part of the city¡¯s official mage association. We can¡¯t really do something like tha¡ª¡± Just as another mage was about to decline the offer, a small pouch of gold coins soon appeared in front of them, which they soon opened, revealing a decent sum of 500 gold coins.

    ¡°How about you lower the price to 8,000 gold coins? Once you do, you can have these 500 gold coins all to yourselves. Think of it as a gift from us,¡± Felix said with a smile. Fortunately, the mages finally decided to bite as one of them said, ¡°Alright, you have a deal. A defensive barrier capable of defending against one hit of a Rank 5 ss holder.¡±

    ¡°Though, would you like us to create a barrier that gradually grows stronger with time instead? Although we would only create a barrier capable of defending one hit from a Rank 3 ss holder, it would eventually grow strong enough to defend against multiple hits of a Rank 5 ss holder,¡± one of the mages offered, prompting Argentum to ask, ¡°And how much would that cost?¡±

    ¡°Just 2,000 gold coi¡ª¡± Before the mage could finish his response, a deathly re from Felix soon washed over his body, prompting him to rify himself, ¡°Make that 1,500 gold coins.¡±

    Hearing that, Argentum looked at Felix. Surprisingly, thetter nodded, silently telling him that it was a worthwhile deal. With that, a contract was soon signed, with the mages that came to Verdant Breeze Town bringing back 2,000 gold coins to the city they lived in. As for Argentum and the others, they looked at each other with a smile, feeling satisfaction from the fact that the town was gradually turning out into a ce where any of them would be able to live in peace.

    ¡°The three development projects are still underway, so that only leave the searching of iron mines,¡± Argentum muttered.

    Just as he was about to talk to Felix and Eleanor regarding the current situation of the town, Valstra had appeared before the three, prompting thetter two to hastily shroud their faces with masks. Ignoring both Felix and Eleanor, Valstra looked at Argentum and said, ¡°We have some urgent news, Sir Argentum.¡±

    ¡°What is it?¡± Argentum asked.

    ¡°We¡¯ve obtained news that a person calling himself The Great Cmity has just destroyed the entirety of Red Juniper Town, even going so far as to kill its inhabitants. Currently, thest location he was sighted at was him making his way to Darkstone Town,¡± Valstra replied, prompting all three to look at each other with a slightly awkward expression on their faces.

    After a few moments of silence, Argentum then allowed Valstra to leave, thanking him for the piece of news they¡¯ve received. Then, he looked at Felix and Eleanor, who had removed their masks as he asked them, ¡°You¡¯re thinking what I¡¯m thinking, right?¡±

    In unison, Felix and Eleanor nodded, definitely knowing what was going on inside Argentum¡¯s mind. Though, Felix could not help but ask, ¡°Butst night, he still had control over himself somehow, right?¡±

    ¡°He did. Though, there¡¯s a high chance he has lost control over his body now. Well, ording to the news we¡¯ve received, anyway,¡± Argentum replied before saying, ¡°Let me try checking through [Sense Sharing].¡±

    After that, he went ahead and activated the skill, focusing on the sense of vision to see where Aurus was heading. Unfortunately for him, [Sense Sharing] did not give him any information at all. At most, he could only see pitch-ck through the shared sense.

    Scratching his head, he then muttered, ¡°Weird. Back then, I swear I could see what he was seeing through the skill. Let me try checking his thoughts.¡±

    With that, he changed [Sense Sharing] into [Thought Sharing], wondering whether or not there was still a hint of rationality in him. Unfortunately, his worst thoughts hade true, with no hint of rationality in each thought whatsoever. The only thoughts that lingered in Aurus¡¯s mind was purely killing, murder, and torture. Other than those thoughts, the only other thought that Argentum could see was survival.

    Letting out a sigh, Argentum immediately made up his mind as he thought to himself, ¡®I guess I should have gonest night when the problem still hadn¡¯t reached this level. Well, I guess it¡¯s betterte than never.¡¯

    Looking at Felix and Eleanor, he told them, ¡°Felix, Eleanor, you two make sure this town develops how we envision it. For now, I have to go somewhere.¡±

    ¡°Where are you going?¡± Eleanor asked in response.

    With a solemn expression, Argentum replied, ¡°I¡¯m going to head to the Origin Pantheon.¡±

    ¡­

    On another continent, within thergest tree that existed on that continent, a being with ash gray bark as skin could not help but lightly frown as an image filled with chaos and destruction appeared in front of the orb it was looking at. This being was none other than Erudis, the first Spiriveritas of Erudinia.

    ¡°It seems that Verdante wasn¡¯t able to escape the clutches of fate,¡± Erudis muttered, shaking his head as he let out a sigh. Seeing as how there was next to no possibility of returning everything to how it previously was, Erudis decided to mitigate the aftereffects of it as much as possible.

    With that, he brought up another orb. Soon, the image of a being with pink bark and a being with cyan bark appeared on it, with one of them asking, ¡°What¡¯s with the sudden call, Erudis?¡±

    In response, Erudis replied, ¡°Vytalis¡­ Mannelyn¡­ it seems like we have a massive problem on our hands.¡±

 Chapter 388: Two Versus One

    Chapter 388: Two Versus One

    ¡°A massive problem? What do you mean by that, Erudis?¡± Naturally, both Vytalis and Mannelyn did not know what Erudis was talking about. With that, Erudis asked them, ¡°Have you obtain any new information regarding the problems that are going on within Maerr-viki Continent?¡±

    ¡°Hmm¡­? Why would you ask us about that?¡± Vytalis was the one to respond to the question, eventually pondering in silence as he recalled all of the information she had received from her informationwork, no matter how big or small it was. Of course, Mannelyn did not stand still either. She also had her own informationwork, albeit a bit smaller than what Vytalis had. Nevertheless, she also rummaged through the information she obtained, asking Erudis a minute or soter, ¡°Is there some sort of specific information we have to focus on or something?¡±

    ¡°News regarding total destruction of a settlement,¡± Erudis responded, his tone filled with indifference. Though, his gaze was still filled with a hint of worry, knowing that every passing second led to more innocent people being killed by the being he saw through the first orb. Fortunately, it only took the two of them half a minute to finally find a piece of information that matched what Erudis wanted to search for, with Mannelyn asking, ¡°Are you pertaining to the matter regarding that guy calling himself ¡®The Great Cmity¡¯?¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s the one,¡± Erudis replied before repositioning the orb containing the image of Aurus in front of the two. Soon after, he sent out a few strands of his own energy to connect the two orbs, allowing both Vytalis and Mannelyn to see through the other orb. In less than an instant, both of them could see the image on the other orb, seeing a being covered in dried-up blood from head to toe.

    ¡°Is that person ¡®The Great Cmity¡¯?¡± Vytalis could not help but ask. ¡°From the aura he¡¯s exuding, as well as that strong killing intent surrounding him, he could definitely someone with that kind of nickname.¡±

    ¡°Indeed, that is ¡®The Great Cmity¡¯,¡± Erudis nodded as he replied.

    ¡°So, what does this have to do with us?¡± Mannelyn asked soon after, only for Erudis¡¯s expression to turn solemn as he told them, ¡°Unfortunately, through some unforeseen circumstances, this being is someone we know¡­somehow.¡±

    ¡°Someone we know somehow?¡± Vytalis did not understand what Erudis was trying to tell them. ¡°Are you telling us that this being is also a Spiriveritas? Or is this being an ally of us Spiriveritae?¡±

    Seeing the solemn expression on Erudis¡¯s face, Mannelyn instantly had a bad feeling as to who the being called The Great Cmity was. Deciding to voice out her thoughts, she could not help but ask Erudis, ¡°This being¡­is a Spiriveritas, right?¡±

    In response, Erudis slowly nodded his head, prompting both Vytalis and Mannelyn to go silent. After a while, Vytalis could not help but mutter, ¡°The Great Cmity is actually a Spiriveritas? If so, who among the Spiriveritae would even be crazy to do such a thing? All of the other Spiriveritae are on the other continents. As for the Spiriveritae in our Maerr-viki Continent, there¡¯s you, me, and¡­oh no.¡±

    ¡°Have you finally realized who the being behind thoseyers of blood is?¡± Erudis asked, to which Vytalis slowly nodded her head, albeit not willing to do so. After thinking about it, she could not help but find it unbelievable. It was next to impossible for something like that to happen, yet it still happened.

    Voicing out Vytalis¡¯s disbelief, Mannelyn asked Erudis, ¡°Is Verdante really that being called ¡®The Great Cmity¡¯? How can you be so sure about that, Erudis?¡±

    ¡°I wish I was joking,¡± Erudis replied, letting out a sigh as he infused a bit more energy into the orb showing an image of Aurus heading to another town. After he applied some energy to the orb, ayer allowing the two of them to see past theyers of dried-up blood finally allowed them to see Aurus, or in their case Verdante, for the first name.

    Just like his codename, they were not surprised that Verdante had bark the color of jade, even the texture of jade was not out of possibility in their minds. Although he was exuding an incredibly malevolent aura at the moment, the aura of wind still lingered about him, a dense yetplex type of wind at that. It was only with those findings did the two finally believe that Aurus was indeed The Great Cmity.

    Disconnecting the orb from the other orb, Erudis then looked at the two, who now had solemn expressions, before asking, ¡°So, what do you want to do? Do you want to let nature take its course? Or do you want to intervene in this?¡±

    ¡°Of course, we want to intervene!¡± Vytalis replied, to which Mannelyn nodded in agreement. ¡°A Spiriveritas never leaves another Spiriveritas behind, even if he bes something like that. Though¡­how did he turn out like that?¡±

    ¡°Fate.¡± Erudis shrugged his shoulders in response. Seeing as how even Erudis did not know the reason behind it, only knowing that it would eventually happen, Vytalis and Mannelyn instantly took it more seriously. With that, Mannelyn asked, ¡°Is there anything else we should take note of before we try and intervene?¡±

    ¡°Take note that Verdante has fully lost all sense of rationality and logic,¡± Erudis told them. ¡°Not only that, but he would definitely flee if he sees you two getting closer to him. If possible, catch him off guard through an ambush. I want you two to apprehend him so we can find out what¡¯s going on with him. Don¡¯t kill him, alright?¡±

    ¡°Andst but not least,¡± he continued. ¡°Always prioritize your survival over the task. There are only 13 Spiriveritae in this world. I don¡¯t want to lose you two because of something like this.¡±

    Sensing the concern in Erudis¡¯s tone, Vytalis and Mannelyn went ahead and assured him that they were going to prioritize their safety first. ¡°Of course, Erudis. Even we don¡¯t want to die in the middle of our journey that easily. Though, we do need to have a fallback n if we fail to apprehend him.¡±

    In response to those words, Erudis exuded a hint of fighting intent as he replied, ¡°Don¡¯t worry on that part. Just scream my name, and I¡¯ll arrive there at the very instant you do.¡±

    Nodding, Vytalis and Mannelyn then told Erudis that they would update him on the task from time to time before ending themunication between the three of them. After the image of the two disappeared from the orb, Erudis could not help but stand up from his seat and do a light stretch as he muttered, ¡°It¡¯s been a long time since I¡¯ve fought against another Spiriveritas. Thest time was when Thanandine went berserk after evolving a skill.¡±

    ¡°I hope¡­I don¡¯t have to go too far this time around.¡±

    ¡­

    Oblivious to what was going on in the background, Aurus slowly made his way to the nearest town to Red Juniper Town, which was Darkstone Town. Along the way, he gradually ustomed himself to the greater strength he had ess to, noticing that as the level of hisprehension increased, the length of time it took for him to get ustomed to the strength also increased.

    With that, he decided to do the limation process while making his way to the next town. Sure, it took him far longer to arrive at the next town since he wanted to make sure he could tap into every single ounce of strength in his body. But, on the upside, he would be able to go all out on the next town with his newfound strength the very instant he arrived there.

    And so, it took him around 6 hours to get ustomed to his new level of strength, giving Darkstone Town enough time to prepare for his arrival. And prepare for his arrival, they did. Just like what had happened in the vigesst night, all of the guards, able-bodied men, and even the town leader was standing near the entrance gate to the town, asking the remaining townspeople to flee for their lives while The Great Cmity was making its way to where they were.

    Fortunately, the n worked, with only those that could fight being left at Darkstone Town while the other townspeople left for other ces, most of them deciding to head to the cities. By the time he had arrived at Darkstone Town, Aurus realized this, prompting him to mutter in his grim voice, ¡°What a nuisance.¡±

    Whoosh! Bang!

    Without even letting the townspeople take revenge for that died before them, Aurus instantly conjured a spear of wind before throwing it at the people that had huddled up near the entrance of the town. After that, multiple des of wind extended out of the spear, killing all of the remaining people that weren¡¯t hit by the spear the first time around. Then, after making sure that all of the people in town were truly dead, he then did the same thing he did to Red Juniper Town, using arge ball of wind to tten and decimate the town.

    By the time the dust settled down from the aftermath of the explosion, Aurus went ahead and checked his progress regarding theprehension of his Epiphany, incredibly disappointed that he had only increased his progress by 50%, a far cry from the usual progress he made whenever he cleared out a town.

    With that in mind, he decided to destroy all of the towns he needed to get stronger first before limating to his greatly increased strength for a while. Then, with his newfound strength, he would then head to the cities and do the same thing.

    But just as he was about to head to another town, two beings, which Aurus hadn¡¯t seen before, appeared in front of him as a barrier of cyan light surrounded him the very next instant.

    The first being had skin the color of pink as she exuded the feeling that everything would be healed if she even gave it the slightest touch. Not only that, but her aura also gave anyone who came in contact with it the feeling that they would live for longer. This being was none other than the Vytalis, the Spiriveritas who had the Epiphany of Life.

    As for the second being, she instead sported skin the color of cyan, just like the barrier she had conjured around Aurus to make sure he did not escape. When one looked at her, they would feel like they could cast any type of magic due to the sheer amount of mana emanating from her. This being was none other than Mannelyn, the Spiriveritas who had the Epiphany of Mana.

    Seeing that they had be sessful in catching Aurus off guard, Vytalis and Mannelyn could not help but look at each other in glee as Mannelyn said, ¡°I got him. Let me justpress the barrier.¡±

    After that, Mannelyn manipted the energy making up the barrier surrounding Aurus, gradually turning it smaller as the thickness of the barrier increased. Not only that, but since she wanted to make sure Aurus wouldn¡¯t escape from their clutches, she even went ahead and added moreyers to the graduallypressing barrier, increasing theyers of restriction on Aurus.

    As for Aurus, after realizing what was going on, he eventually punched out towards the barrier, only for the power behind to be negated as the barrier turned thicker. With that, his primal instinct immediately scrolled through the various skills in his arsenal, its goal being to let Aurus get out of the barrier. Eventually, a certain skill fit his needs as a grim voice emanating from Aurus¡¯s mouth the very next second.

    ¡°[True Semis Regulus].¡±

    ¡°[Dark Universal de].¡±

    ¡°[Soul Transcendence].¡±

    ¡°[Supreme Deification].¡±

    ¡°[Sole Entity].¡±

    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!

    Within seconds, the malevolent intent emanating from Aurus had intensified hundreds, even thousands of times, reducing the confidence Mannelyn and Vytalis had in apprehending Aurus. Though, what reduced their confidence even more was the attack Aurus sent out at them.

    ¡°[Spellswords of Ruination: Lost Art].¡±

    ¡°[Penultimate de of the Chaotic Tempest].¡±

    ¡°[Fragarach].¡±

 Chapter 389: Devastatingly Powerful

    Chapter 389: Devastatingly Powerful

    ¡°[Spellswords of Ruination: Lost Art].¡±

    ¡°[Penultimate de of the Chaotic Tempest].¡±

    ¡°[Fragarach].¡±

    With both a malevolent aura and seething power surrounding him, a green sword half his height soon manifested in one of his hands,pressing all of the power he had been emanating until now onto the end of the de. Soon after, the green sword underwent a massive change as a pitch-ck streak appeared in its center, giving off the feeling that anything it hit would undoubtedly perish from the sheer might.

    Instantly sensing that her barrier wouldn¡¯t hold up even if she thickened it, Mannelyn was about to warn Vytalis to flee from the vicinity, only to notice the feeling of someone looking at them. Fortunately for her, it did not take long for her to realize that this feeling came from Aurus. His gaze was that of someone looking at prey that wouldn¡¯t be able to escape his clutches, instilling slight fear into Mannelyn as she instead warned Vytalis, ¡°Defend as much as you can!¡±

    ¡°Got it!¡± Vytalis hastily replied, also feeling Aurus¡¯s gaze at her. From what she could sense from the de Aurus had manifested, there was no way they were going to escape Aurus¡¯s attack that easily. With that, she hastily condensed all of her energy into a single point before letting it explode, turning into ayer of translucent pink armor that went over her body. Mannelyn had also done the same, forming multipleyers of defensive barriers on her body to the point that, except for her head poking out, her body had turned into the shape of a fat cucumber.

    Seeing how Aurus hadn¡¯t made his move yet even though they had already put up their defenses against his next attack, the two of them could not help but look at each other, wondering if Aurus was waiting for something else to happen before he unleashed his attack. Though, it did not take long for them to find out that what Aurus was waiting for¡­

    ¡­was them.

    Whoosh!

    With a swift sh, Aurus easily cut through the tens ofyers of defensive barriers ced on top of him as a dark green de light was soon released by the sword he wielded. Since the barriers had been cut, the de light was allowed to expand in size, absorbing all of the energy in the surroundings as the feeling of looming death soon washed over both Vytalis and Mannelyn¡¯s bodies.

    At that instant, it had finally be obvious as to what Aurus¡¯s goal was. The reason why Aurus hadn¡¯t attacked at the very instant they had finished putting up their defenses or before they could even put up their defenses was not because he was waiting for something. Instead, Aurus, or to be more exact the primal instinct controlling Aurus, hadplete confidence that even if a thousand or a million defensive barriers were ced around the two beings in front of him, he would still find a way to cut them down.

    Ksh! Ksh!

    In response to this overbearing confidence, the armor protecting Vytalis and the barriers protecting Mannelyn quickly crumpled and shattered under the sheer pressure exuded by the de light. As for the remaining strength behind the de light, almost all of it were received by the two, sending both of them flying for tens of kilometers before eventuallying to a halt.

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    At the very moment they had regained stability over their bodies, they hastily headed back to where Aurus was, using the strongest movement skills they had in their arsenal. While doing so, they could not help but feel a bit of anger against Aurus. Sure, Spiriveritae disliked fighting against other Spiriveritae. But when it came down to a younger Spiriveritas fighting against an older one¡­then it wouldn¡¯t be surprising if the older one even put its whole pride on the line just to defeat the younger Spiriveritas.

    Rustle¡­rustle¡­!

    Pushing away all of the foliage that hindered from getting them to where Aurus was faster, they eventually arrived at the ce where previously was, only to see that he was currently sitting down in silence, as if he was waiting for the two to return. Even the great aura surrounding him a while ago had disappeared, returning his state to how the two first saw him.

    Seeing this, both of them could not help but think as to whether they had forced out Aurus to use the strongest move in his arsenal. In any case, they knew that they couldn¡¯t let themselves be overconfident by that fact, knowing that every Spiriveritas, no matter how young, definitely had a trick or two up their sleeves.

    With that in mind, the two of them hastily went up in the air as Aurus silently watched them from afar, oblivious to what was about to happen to him. Seeing that Aurus did not bother putting up any defense or whatsoever against what was about to happen next, both Vytalis and Mannelyn could not help but hasten their preparations for the move they were about to unleash, allowing their pride to take control over their bodies instead of their rationality.

    Within seconds, arge amount of pink energy particles circled Vytalis while arge amount of cyan energy particles circled Mannelyn. After looking at the amount each other had coalesced within that short span of time, they then allowed the energy particles they had collected to collide with another, forming a new type of energy particle that contained the power of life, as well as mana. Though, if one utilized their senses to the maximum, one would feel another energy being birthed from the collision.

    Chaos.

    Creating a chamber wherein the new energy particles could be housed, Mannelyn and Vytalis allowed them topress into a small dot as the former could not help but ask thetter, ¡°Why isn¡¯t Verdante moving? Is his energy all spent after just using that move?¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t know, but I think it would be safer to create a couple of barriers in front of us using the chaos particles,¡± Vytalis replied, prompting Mannelyn to nod as she manipted a small amount of the particlespressing into a dot to form barriers that would shield them from any oing attack.

    Eventually, the preparations of the two were nowplete, with Aurus still not doing anything in retaliation. All this time, he had just been sitting on the floor, as if he was bing bored of waiting for them to finish. Nevertheless, a hint of cunningness slightly emanated from him as his primal instinct told his body to wait for the right moment to make a move. At this moment, the primal instinct did not prioritize the survival of his body anymore. After realizing how strong he waspared to the two, a hint of the maniacal pleasure from the mass killing he had done so far gradually seeped out, making him let out a soft yet malevolent chuckle as he waited.

    After waiting for a few seconds and seeing how Aurus still did not want to do anything against their attack, Vytalis gave a look at Mannelyn, who nodded in response as she shouted, ¡°Since he went all out on us, it¡¯s time for us to pay the favor back!¡±

    Weeengggg¡­

    Slowly but surely, thepressed dot made out of thebined energy particles radiated light, its intensity gradually making it blinding for one to look at. Eventually, once they felt like it had reached its peak, the demeanor of the two instantly went under a change, as a solemn expression appeared on their faces. Not long after, a beam of dark silver light was shot out of the makeshift chamber, heading straight for Aurus as the two shouted, ¡°[Transcendent Spirit-Vitality Unification]!¡±

    ¡°[Energy Overflow Beam]!¡±

    Bang!

    Without even giving Aurus a chance to escape, the beam had collided with him head-on, covering the whole area around him in the dark silver light of the beam. Seeing that their attack had worked, Vytalis could not help but look at Mannelyn with a hint of glee on her face, saying, ¡°To think we can still cooperate this well even after going our separate ways for over a hundred years. It kind of feels nice to do something like this again.¡±

    ¡°It definitely is, especially if we¡¯re teaching the younger Spiriveritae to respect those that came before them.¡± Mannelyn could not help but let out a chuckle in response, prompting Vytalis tough out loud as well. Though, before they could continue tough any further, a hoarse and grim voice resounded amidst the dark silver light, making the two freeze in ce as they looked at the aftermath of the attack.

    Although the surroundings now looked like what seemed to be the aftermath of arge war, a being covered in dried-up blood still stood there, radiating the same malevolent aura it used to radiate. At the moment, a dark green barrier was conjured around the being, only for it to disappear as it looked at the two and asked, ¡°Are you two done?¡±

    Before the two could even respond to the question, the being had finally made its move, muttering the name of a skill before disappearing in front of their field of vision a split-secondter.

    ¡°[Zenith Nihility Dash].¡±

    Whoosh!

    Just as the two were looking for any traces of Aurus, the presence of a being appearing behind them hastily made them jump back in response. But of course, to the current Aurus, any move they made was useless in front of him.

    ¡°[Omnipresence].¡±

    Swoosh!

    In less than an instant, the terrifying yet tyrannical aura surrounding Aurus just some time ago had reappeared once more, instantly making the two realize that Aurus was just biding his time. However, it was also at this moment that another question formed in their minds.

    ¡°What kind of monster is he?¡±

    With their questions left unanswered, Aurus then went ahead and summoned a de of wind, simr to the de of wind he had summoned before. Though, rather than infusing the de of wind with the malevolent aura surrounding him, he instead summoned hundreds more des of wind as they gradually formed arge w capable of making one fall to their knees with just one look at it.

    ¡°[Spellswords of Ruination: Ultimate Art].¡±

    ¡°[Millennium Sword Embodiment].¡±

    ¡°[Nine Realms¡¯ Nether w].¡±

    Bang!

    With one quick swipe, both Vytalis and Mannelyn were sent flying once more. Though, this time around, shock could be visibly seen on their faces as they noticed that the strength behind Aurus¡¯s attack had increased in strength rather than decreased. At that instant, they realized that Aurus was holding back on them, wanting them to feel more and more despair from his attacks that were gradually getting stronger.

    ¡°What level ofprehension has he already achieved? Level 40?¡± Vytalis could not help but ask Mannelyn as they gradually stabilized themselves. In response, Mannelyn replied with a solemn tone, ¡°ording to the power he¡¯s shown, he¡¯s definitely gone past Level 50 already. Then again, it¡¯s certain that hisprehension over his Epiphany is already stronger than ours.¡±

    Although they were both the 11th and the 12th Spiriveritas respectively, Vytalis and Mannelyn were only able to increase theirprehension over their Epiphanies to around Level 30 or so, with Vytalis being slightly higher than Mannelyn. If only they knew that Aurus was also around the same level ofprehension as them. Utter disbelief would be written all over their faces.

    Just as they were about to head back to where Aurus was, it seemed that Aurus had taken the initiative, appearing in front of them before they could even put up any sort of defense. With therge w made out of des still behind his back, he continued to conjure more and more des, increasing the size of the w as its color turned gradually darker.

    Sensing how much energy was contained within the w, both Vytalis and Mannelyn could not help but wonder why such a being would take on such a path, even wonder as to why they epted this task. Nevertheless, they were certain on one thing at this point onward. In their minds, the only being that could defeat Aurus was Erudis.

    He was just that terrifying.

    ¡°[Spellsword of Ruination: Extended Ultimate Art].¡±

    ¡°[Ten Millennium Sword Embodiment].¡±

    ¡°[Nine Realms¡¯ Gehenna w].¡±

 Chapter 390: Seeking Out Answers

    Chapter 390: Seeking Out Answers

    While Aurus was in the middle of the wilderness, instilling within both Vytalis and Mannelyn a feeling that they wouldn¡¯t be able to defeat Aurus, a person was making his own move in response to the incident that was currently going on involving his original body. Of course, that person was none other than Argentum.

    Leaving the development of Verdant Breeze Town up to Felix, Eleanor, and his trusted aides, Argentum hastily went out of town, distancing himself from it to the point where he wouldn¡¯t be afraid of letting others know his true identity as a Pseudo-Animate. After that, hemanded the system to let him enter the Origin Pantheon. In response, a notification sound resounded in his mind as a faint suction force started to surround his body. Gradually, this suction force became stronger and stronger until eventually, Argentum disappeared at the spot where he was standing.

    Whoosh!

    Pop!

    A few secondster, Argentum had appeared at the center of arge building made out of marble. Looking around, he was currently standing on a slightly heightened pedestal, allowing him to realize that he was now back at the Origin Pantheon. Just as he was about to go ahead and leave the pantheon, aiming to find Torvas, the sight of a familiar man getting closer to him could not help but make him adjust his n, wanting to make use of the man.

    ¡°Wee to the Origin Pantheon, neer! I assume this is your first timeing here,¡± the man said, sporting a light grin. ¡°I¡¯m sure you¡¯d feel alienated if you don¡¯t know anyone in this ce, so let me introduce myself. My name¡¯s Cardis. I¡¯m a Rank 9 Animate, and I¡¯ll tell you more about the Origin Pantheonter. For now, what¡¯s your name?¡±

    In response to Cardis¡¯s words, Argentum could not help but say, ¡°Am I d to see you again, Cardis. Could you help me out on something? It¡¯s incredibly urgent.¡±

    Not expecting those words toe out of the person he had just met, Cardis¡¯s smile gradually turned awkward as he let out a forced chuckle, asking, ¡°You¡¯re d to see me again? I sincerely apologize, but you seem to have mistaken me for someone else. Perhaps, you¡¯ve met someone that looked like me befo¡ª¡±

    Though, before he could finish his words, it was only then did Argentum realize that he had not deactivated [False Visage of the Animate], only doing so now. As the sight of the being made out of gray energy in front of him, Cardis¡¯s attitude instantly underwent a 180 degree turn as a big grin appeared on his face, eximing with glee, ¡°Argentum, my friend! It¡¯s nice to see you here in the Origin Pantheon again!¡±

    ¡°It is indeed nice to be back,¡± Argentum replied, radiating an aura of happiness after seeing Cardis recognize him. ¡°Though unfortunately, I have my responsibilities in Erudinia, so I can¡¯t really stay here for long periods of time.¡±

    ¡°I did tell you back then that one day only passes in Erudinia when you stay one week here, so you should really stop by here more often,¡± Cardis replied, letting out a chuckle. ¡°Judging by how long you¡¯ve been away from this ce, it has been over two weeks since we¡¯vest met. What made youe to the Origin Pantheon after that long?¡±

    Although he was slightly surprised that Cardis would be able to track the amount of time he had been away, Argentum ced that thought at the back of his head for now as he responded, ¡°I need you to help me find Torvas. I have something to ask him.¡±

    ¡°Torvas, what do you need him for?¡± Naturally, being a social butterfly, Cardis could not help but inquire more regarding the situation. In response, Argentum told Cardis, ¡°Unfortunately, I can¡¯t tell you right now. It¡¯s a secret that only he and I know.¡±

    ¡°I see¡­¡± Not dismayed by the fact that he wasn¡¯t privy to the secret, Cardis nodded in response before pondering in silence for a while. After that, he looked back at Argentum before saying, ¡°I¡¯ve obtained information as to where he is in the Origin Pantheon, let me take you there.¡±

    Nodding that he did not mind the offer, Argentum then extended his hand, which Cardis tightly grabbed on to as he elerated to the fastest speed he could muster within seconds. Now being used to the high speed at which they moved through the Origin Pantheon, only then did Argentum ask the question that had lingered in his mind after thinking about how Cardis was able to calcte how long he was gone.

    ¡°Do you always stay here in the Origin Pantheon?¡± Argentum could not help but ask, to which Cardis nodded in response as he answered, ¡°Yeah, I do. I onlye out of the Pantheon whenever there¡¯s some sort of rare material I need from Erudinia. Though, once I be a Rank 1 Transcendent, I would have no need to head back to Erudinia anymore.¡±

    ¡°How did you figure out how long I was out in Erudinia?¡± Argentum then asked, to which Cardis let out a chuckle in response. ¡°Well, it¡¯s quite simple. Since a week here is equivalent to one day back in the outside world, it¡¯s quite simple to do the math. Of course, people would eventually have a skewed sense of time once they stay here for long enough, so I usually do these calctions to make sure my sense of time is still fine. After all, I¡¯m one of the only people in this ce to greet neers.¡±

    ¡°Speaking of neers, why is it when that I enter the Origin Pantheon, you¡¯re the only one I see waiting near the pantheon?¡± Argentum asked yet another question, to which Cardis shrugged his shoulders in response. ¡°Pure coincidence. For a greater part of the three or so months you¡¯ve been gone from this ce, I only greet neers about once a week, relying on a schedule wherein I rotate shifts with other people. You just arrived at the pantheon at a time when I was the one greeting the neers, that¡¯s all.¡±

    ¡°But serious matters aside, how about I lighten the mood up?¡± Sensing the solemn aura surrounding Argentum as they continued to travel through the Origin Pantheon, Cardis could not help but break the somewhat awkward atmosphere as he told Argentum with a smile, ¡°Let me tell you a story I heard from a friend wherein two Rank 5 Transcendents were helping each other out, but one of them had to return to Erudinia. Coincidentally, the Transcendent that was heading back to Erudinia had told the other Transcendent to craft something for him. In response, the Transcendent that was staying told him toe back in 3 months.¡±

    After that, he could not help but break intoughter as he continued, ¡°Of course, I¡¯m sure you know what happened next. The Transcendent in the outside world stayed in the outside world for 3 months, forgetting that the passage of time in the Origin Pantheon was vastly different. By the time that Transcendent had returned to the Origin Pantheon, over a year and a half had passed for the other Transcendent! I¡¯ve even heard that they had a huge fight the very moment they saw each other again! Hahahaha!¡±

    In response to Cardis¡¯s story, Argentum could not help but let out a light chuckle, forgetting the thing he had to do at hand for a bit as he could not help but say, ¡°Hahaha. That¡¯s quite stupid as a Transcendent. Surely he would¡¯ve remembered that the passage of time is different here, right?¡±

    ¡°I know, right?¡± Seeing that the atmosphere around the two of them had lightened up, Cardis and Argentum eventually made their way to where Torvas was, appearing at an area of the Pantheon that Argentum had never gone to before.

    ¡­

    As they appeared in front of this new area, Cardis instantly went ahead and exined to the clueless Argentum, ¡°I forgot to show you this part of the Pantheon the first time you were here, but this ce in front of you is what we guys that stay here often affectionately call home. For others, they just call it the Origin Dens.¡±

    After that, he then led Cardis to one of the various buildings within the Origin Dens, arriving in front of a two-story house that looked like a normal person was living in it instead of a powerful Transcendent like Torvas. Giving Cardis a quick nce, Cardis nodded in response as he knocked on the door, prompting a voice from within to ask, ¡°Who is it?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s Cardis, Sir Torvas. I brought Argentum here with me,¡± Cardis said in response, prompting Argentum to say, ¡°Torvas, I have something to ask of you. It¡¯s regarding those things you told me back then.¡±

    Surprisingly, after Argentum said those words, a moment of silence ensued within the house before arge cacophony of noises soon resounded as the door to the house was eventually opened, apanied by hurried yet loud footsteps.

    Behind the door was a slightly disheveled Torvas, seemingly shaken up by the words spoken by Argentum. From the looks of it, it seemed that he did not expect Argentum toe to this ce so early. Nevertheless, after seeing Cardis apanying Argentum, he quicklyposed himself as he let out a light cough. Taking the hint, Cardis lightly nodded as he soon bade farewell to Argentum.

    Naturally, Argentum bade farewell to Cardis, knowing that it was Torvas¡¯s doing as to why Cardis left all of a sudden. In any case, he did not mind since only the two of them had any idea on what they were going to talk about anyway. With that, Torvas allowed Argentum to enter his house, instantly making Argentum that Torvas was a mix between a clean freak and a person that just did not care where any of his things went.

    Of course, that was all unimportant to him. He ced all of thements he had regarding Torvas¡¯s house and personality at the back of his head as he sat down on one of the chairs in Torvas¡¯s guest room. Seeing that Argentum was making himselffortable, Torvas then asked him, ¡°Would you like something to drink?¡±

    In response, Argentum activated [False Visage of the Animate], taking on the appearance he always took as the leader of Verdant Breeze Town. After that, he replied, ¡°Sure. Do you have any juice?¡±

    ¡°I think I can still make some strawberry juice with the extra strawberries I bought some time ago.¡± Torvas nodded as he headed into the kitchen,ing out of it with a ss of strawberry juice for Argentum and a cup of coffee for himself.

    After giving the ss of strawberry juice to Argentum, Torvas then took a sip of the coffee he made as he asked, ¡°So, you¡¯re here regarding the prophecies I gave you, right?¡±

    ¡°The only reason why I would be here looking for you, anyway,¡± Argentum replied.

    ¡°Which of the prophecies hade true, the one for you, or the one for your original body?¡± Torvas asked in response, prompting Argentum to respond, ¡°Thetter. As for whether I¡¯m certain it¡¯s the prophecy you spoke of or not, you¡¯ll have to be the judge of that.¡±

    ¡°Well¡­let¡¯s start with the obvious questions. Has he lost all sanity?¡± Torvas asked, to which Argentum nodded in response.

    ¡°Hmm¡­has he lost all sanity to the point that he would even kill innocent people?¡± he asked once more, prompting Argentum to be silent as he eventually replied, ¡°Five viges and two towns.¡±

    Hearing that, Torvas could not help but let out a light sigh of relief as he told Argentum, ¡°Well, all I can say is that the situation isn¡¯t irredeemable yet. If you find a way to recover his sanity, then there¡¯s a huge chance the prophecy won¡¯te true.¡±

    ¡°And that¡¯s why I came here to ask you, Torvas,¡± Argentum could not help but say in response. ¡°Do you have any methods I could use to recover my original body¡¯s sanity?¡±

    In response, Torvas could not help but let out a long sigh as he muttered, ¡°I had a feeling you were going to ask that question.¡±

    Tilting his head in confusion, Argentum did not know what Torvas meant. Though, as Torvas continued to talk, it was soon apparent as to why he had said that.

    ¡°Whether you like my next statement or not, I can¡¯t do anything about that. That¡¯s just how it is. But to answer your question¡­¡±

    ¡°I¡­¡±

    ¡°¡­don¡¯t have any method to speak of.¡±

 Chapter 391: War of Information

    Chapter 391: War of Information

    Hearing Torvas¡¯s answer to his question, it almost took Argentum all of his willpower not to drop the ss of strawberry juice he was holding. Then again, for someone like Torvas to give Argentum prophecies that would actually happen, it would make sense for him to have a method or two to help in making sure that the prophecy wouldn¡¯t happen, right?

    Of course, that was the thought process in Argentum¡¯s mind before he came here. After listening to Torvas¡¯s response, he was visibly shaken, distraught, and had an expression that gave off the feeling he had lost all hope. Nevertheless, he still tried to find a way, thinking that Torvas was just not telling him, needing a price for it or something.

    ¡°If you need me to pay for the method to save my original body, then I wouldn¡¯t mind paying any amount. Even my loyal servitude would be up for offer, just so I can help out,¡± Argentum said, shocking Torvas as he did not expect someone like him to be this steadfast. Of course, that was because Torvas had lived most of his life only half-trusting the words of others, so something like Argentum¡¯s unwavering resolve to help his original body was definitely a new experience for him.

    Scratching his head as he felt a headacheing, Torvas repeated his answer once more, saying, ¡°As I¡¯ve said before, I do not have any method to speak of. It¡¯s not that I don¡¯t want to help you or anything. If I had any idea as to the method on how you could make sure the prophecy doesn¡¯t reach its end, then I would¡¯ve already told you back then. Unfortunately, my mastery over divination has not reached the level of knowing how to resolve it yet.¡±

    As he said this, he could not help but let out a light sigh. Since he was part of the Origin Pantheon, that meant he had control over a variant of the element of Origin, which he did. Akin to what Argentum had control over, he had control over the element of Lesser Origin, but that was the only thing simr between the two of them. Adding onto the four foundational elements of Fire, Water, Wind, and Earth, he had also fused the element of Time into it, transforming his element of Lesser Origin to the element of Lesser Temporal Origin.

    With his control over the element of Lesser Temporal Origin, he now had the ability to manipte through time, and in his current case, seeing through a few fragments of it in the future, allowing him to create prophecies. Unfortunately, that was all he could do. Since he could only see fragments of the future, he could not find out the cause of his prophecies, or the methods that would help stop the prophecies from happening.

    The only way he would be able to achieve that was to fuse the element of Space into his Origin as well, creating a synergistic effect with the element of Time, forming the element of Lesser Spatiotemporal Origin. As time had something to do with space and vice versa, he would be able to see the future clearly, allowing him to form prophecies that would happen in the future, as well as help stop it.

    Nevertheless, Argentum had no care for that, the only thought in his mind being to help stop the prophecy regarding Aurus from happening, or in this case, worsening. Since Torvas had no method to offer him, he wracked his brain to the limit, thinking of various ways to make sure the problem with Aurus doesn¡¯t worsen. Eventually, an idea he thought was genius soon popped up in his mind as he looked at Torvas with expectation and asked, ¡°Since you don¡¯t have any method to stop the prophecy, can¡¯t you insteade with me to Erudinia and stop my original body from wreaking more havoc? That would give us enough time to find a way to recover his sanity, right?¡±

    Although he found Argentum¡¯s slightly crazed expression ufortable, Torvas let out yet another sigh as he replied, ¡°If only it was that simple. If this were to have happened back then, then it might have been possible to do. But unfortunately, due to the current restrictions ced on us Transcendents, we can¡¯t head back to the world of Erudinia.¡±

    Seeing that his next n seemed to have reached a dead end as well, Argentum could not help but bow his head down in despair, as if he had already lost all hope. After that, he took in a few deep breaths, realizing that he had been frantically asking questions to Torvas like a maniac for quite some time. Feeling that his emotions had now returned to normal, he then asked Torvas, this time calmly, ¡°Is there a reason as to why you can¡¯t head back to the world of Erudinia?¡±

    With Argentum being calmer than before, Torvas nodded as he exined, ¡°It¡¯s not just me, Argentum. Any Transcendent, except for a select few, can¡¯t head back to the world of Erudinia. Almost all of them could only be seen in the Transcendent World. As to why, I cannot tell you yet until you¡¯ve reached the strength of a Rank 9 Animate at the very least.¡±

    ¡°In short, I just can¡¯t, no matter how much I want to,¡± Torvas ended his statement with those words, prompting Argentum to go silent for a bit before drinking all of the strawberry juice in his ss. He then ced the empty ss on a nearby table before standing up and thanking Torvas. ¡°Well, I guess I have a few ideas in my head on what to do to help my original body out. Thank you.¡±

    Nodding in response, Torvas said, ¡°Although I can¡¯t help out in terms of my presence, if you need any financial help, I don¡¯t mind helping out.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll keep that in mind, thanks.¡± With his final statement as his words of parting, Argentum then left Torvas¡¯s house, letting out a sigh as he pondered over other things he could do to stop Aurus from entering a worse condition. Just as he was about to head back to the pantheon where he first appeared on his own, the sight of a familiar man gradually getting closer to him soon greeted him. Coincidentally, while looking at this man, a thought popped up in his mind as he wondered, ¡®Wait a second¡­Torvas told me that only Transcendents can¡¯t return to the world of Erudinia. If that¡¯s the case, then¡­¡¯

    ¡°You¡¯re finally out, Argentum,¡± Cardis said at the very instant he got close to Argentum, smiling as he noticed Argentum had returned to his previous appearance the moment he entered the Pantheon. ¡°So, what did you two talk about?¡±

    ¡°Well, this and that, I guess,¡± Argentum said, non-verbally telling Cardis that what they talked about was of no importance to Cardis, prompting Cardis to nod in response. Though, after saying those words, he then went ahead and asked Cardis, ¡°Hey, mind helping me ou¡ª¡±

    ¡°Hmm¡­?¡± Just as Argentum was about to finish his question, he stopped near the very end, making Cardis ponder as to what Argentum was about to ask him. Unfortunately, his curiosity regarding that question as Argentum shook his head, telling him, ¡°It¡¯s nothing, it¡¯s nothing. Can you help me get back to the pantheon as quick as possible?¡±

    ¡°Well¡­alright then.¡± Cardis nodded, tightly gripping onto one of Argentum¡¯s hands before dashing forward at full strength. Along the way, he could not help but sense the solemn atmosphere surrounding them as Argentum had a pensive expression on his face. Although he gradually became more and more curious as they got closer to the pantheon, Cardis thought that Argentum was not telling him about what he talked about with Torvas, wanting to not implicate him into the problem that he might be having.

    With that in mind, he ced the thought at the back of his head as they eventually arrived at the pantheon. Letting go of his grip, Cardis went silent for a bit before eventually telling Argentum, ¡°Before you go, just let me know if you need my help or something. I¡¯m always here in the Origin Pantheon, after all.¡±

    In response to those words, Argentum went silent for a bit before lightly nodding, letting out a wry smile soon after. As Argentum gradually disappeared in front of Cardis¡¯s field of view, thetter could not help but notice that there was more to the wry smile Argentum sported. It was as if he was telling him that it would be a long while till he got back.

    Realizing that, Cardis let out a long sigh as he muttered to himself, ¡°Well, let¡¯s just hope Argentum stays safe after resolving all of his problems.¡±

    And so, Cardis went back to greeting all of the neers that entered the Origin Pantheon for the first time, cing the thought of Argentum at the back of his head for now.

    ¡­

    Whoosh!

    Appearing on the spot he had disappeared from some time ago, Argentum then hastily made his way back to Verdant Breeze Town, easily finding Felix and Eleanor talking with Delmann and Valstra regarding how the development ns Argentum had drafted would be carried out. Though, upon seeing Argentum arrive near them, Delmann and Valstra instantly moved closer to Argentum to ask him on what to do regarding the development ns, only for him to respond that they should approach it from a standpoint that would be the most essible and would benefit a great portion of the townspeople.

    After that, he asked Delmann and Valstra to leave for now, telling them that he needed to talk with Felix and Eleanor. Looking at each other for a bit, feeling that there was more to the situation at hand judging from his tone, the two eventually nodded as they told him that they would be back to ask him questions within an hour or so. Of course, an hour was more than enough for what he would discuss with the two, so he merely nodded in response.

    Now that the three of them alone, Felix instantly went ahead and asked Argentum, ¡°So, what did you find out from the Origin Pantheon?¡±

    With a sigh, Argentum replied, ¡°Unfortunately, there¡¯s nothing we can do about the current state of my creator.¡±

    After that, he circted a bit of the energy in his body to establish a contact with two more people, telling both Felix and Eleanor soon after, ¡°Though, I do have something in mind that would help us be more knowledgeable as to what¡¯s happening to Aurus. I¡¯ll need your help, as well as Rosalia and Helios¡¯s help on this one.¡±

    Making sure that his connection with Rosalia and Helios was stable, he then connected both Felix and Eleanor to it, allowing all five of them to talk at once in private. Seeing that all of them were waiting for him to talk, Argentum lightly nodded as he said, ¡°I¡¯m sure all of you have obtained news regarding the person called The Great Cmity. Rosalia, Helios, I¡¯m sure you¡¯ve heard of the person, right?¡±

    Rosalia nodded as she replied, ¡°I have. Although I¡¯m located near the south of the continent, the fact that he was able to destroy five viges and two towns within the span of a day has still reached this part.¡±

    As for Helios, he of course replied in his usual narcissistic tone, ¡°The same could be said for this divine being right here. News regarding The Great Cmity have be widespread here, to the point that a great portion of the cities and towns near the inheritance have gone on lockdown. It¡¯s quite hrious in a way, if I do say so myself.¡±

    Ignoring Helios¡¯sment, Argentum nodded in response as he then told both Rosalia and Helios, ¡°Since Felix and Eleanor already know of this, only you two are not in the know. So, let me tell you right now that the person called The Great Cmity is actually my original body.¡±

    In an instant, Rosalia and Helios were left at a loss for words, finding it somewhat hard to process. Of course, Argentum knew that they were pressed for time, so he said, ¡°I¡¯ll exin the specifics to the two of youter, but let me tell you the idea I have in mind regarding this original body of mine.¡±

    ¡°I need the help of you four to create¡­¡±

    ¡°A real-time informationwork.¡±

 Chapter 392: Appearing in Style

    Chapter 392: Appearing in Style

    ¡°A real-time informationwork? Now what would you need that for?¡± Rosalia could not help but ask, not understanding how a real-time informationwork would be rted to The Great Cmity. In response, Felix went silent for a bit before asking Argentum, ¡°What do you want to do with the real-time informationwork, Argentum?¡±

    ¡°Primarily to track down the location of The Great Cmity, as well as be notified of any news rted to what he¡¯s doing,¡± Argentum replied, to which all four instantly got an idea as to what he wanted to achieve with it. If they were to think of it from the standpoint of a town leader, being updated as to where a catastrophic event might befall their town at any time was an advantage not all towns had. If they knew of such an event beforehand, then they would be able to evacuate all of the inhabitants of the town, with the only damage done being material losses.

    Fortunately, that was indeed the perspective at which Argentum was thinking of when using the real-time informationwork. But of course, there was also another reason that only he could think of since Aurus was The Great Cmity. Allowing him to be notified of what was happening to Aurus meant that he would be able to react and respond ordingly, specifically whether or not he had to get closer to Aurus or stay far away.

    At the moment, the only thing he could do was still far away since Aurus had lost all of his sanity. But if there was ever a chance that Aurus regained his sanity, then with the help of the real-time informationwork, he would be notified of such a thing as fast as possible.

    Seeing that Argentum had regained his focus, Eleanor then asked, ¡°How wide would the coverage of thework be?¡±

    Pondering over the potential path Aurus would take when destroying settlements, Argentum could not help but focus his attention on what was the nearest kingdom to both him and Aurus, which was Seraph Kingdom. Commanding the system to bring out a map of the Maerr-viki Continent, he double-checked that the closest kingdom to them was indeed the Seraph Kingdom.

    Closing the screen, he then said, ¡°Hopefully, the informationwork must cover the entire Seraph Kingdom, as well as the cities and towns surrounding it. Though, if possible, have some focus on the two other kingdoms on the continent as well.¡±

    ¡°And how frequent do you want to be updated?¡± Rosalia asked, prompting Argentum to go silent for a moment before replying, ¡°Would being updated every 10 minutes be possible?¡±

    ¡°It would, even being updated every 5 minutes would also be possible. Though, this divine being right here rmends my greatest fan to choose a longer duration like half an hour or an hour. That way, it would cost less money to achieve the same result.¡± Surprisingly, Helios was the one who answered the question, making everyone remember that he was well-versed in the art of saving money. After all, for someone like him to having all of those statues and paintings in his liking, he would need to have a lot of money.

    Though, rather than ept Helios¡¯s suggestion, Argentum merely smiled in response, thinking to himself that he didn¡¯t expect to use that offer so soon. Nevertheless, wanting to make sure that it was feasible and within budget, he asked Helios, ¡°How much do you think it would cost for a real-time informationwork with those preferences to be created?¡±

    ¡°To be honest, the amount of manpower needed for such an informationwork would be quite grand, considering how you want to cover the entirety of Seraph Kingdom, as well as have some focus on the two other kingdoms. Nevertheless, this divine being excels at problems like these, so a conservative estimate would possibly be around one to two Rank 7 Mana Stones at the very least,¡± Helios responded.

    He then continued, ¡°Just so you know, a Rank 7 Mana Stone is a priceless item only being sold at auctions. To save you time, just think of one Rank 7 Mana Stone as being equivalent to 10 million gold coins. Of course, if you don¡¯t mindpses, it would cost less. But if you want to make sure they don¡¯t ck off, that¡¯s the bare minimum.¡±

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡± Argentum went silent for a bit, slightly worried that his question would surprise the four. Nevertheless, he still asked, ¡°Then, how much is a Rank 9 Mana Stone worth?¡±

    ¡°If you get your hands on something like that, then this divine being would instantly buy it from your hands for a billion gold coins,¡± Helios replied, to which Rosalia, Felix, and Eleanor nodded in agreement. That price was what they considered the lowest price for the stone, instantly stupefying Argentum. Though, soon after, a wide grin appeared on his face, telling them, ¡°In that case¡­¡±

    ¡°Allow the informationwork to update me¡­¡±

    ¡°¡­every single minute.¡±

    ¡­

    While Argentum and the others had decided to create a real-time informationwork that would allow them to track Aurus¡¯s each and every move, the person mentioned, on the other hand, was still currently fighting against Vytalis and Mannelyn¡­if instilling despair into them was still considered fighting.

    ¡°[Spellsword of Ruination: Extended Ultimate Art].¡±

    ¡°[Ten Millennium Sword Embodiment].¡±

    ¡°[Nine Realms¡¯ Gehenna w].¡±

    Increasing the power behind his attack, Aurus attacked once more with the w behind him growing in size. With a single swipe, a strong shockwave was formed, blowing both Vytalis and Mannelyn back by a few hundred meters. And that was only from the shockwave of the attack alone.

    As for therge w, they naturally did not want to receive it head-on, prompting Mannelyn to hastily conjure a great amount of defensive barriers in front of them. On the other hand, Vytalis utilized her control over the power of life to give the barriers the property to regenerate and work as one unit. Unfortunately, even with such a move, all of the barriers they conjured had still been shattered in an instant by the w, sending them flying for over 30 kilometers before they coulde to a full stop. Not only that, but they weren¡¯t even able to stabilize their bodies properly, only for Aurus to appear in front of them once more.

    Since the two of them were Inanimates, both Vytalis and Mannelyn did not feel any pain from the attacks at all. In any case, they still knew that arge chunk of their vitality had been hacked away from that attack, hastily prompting Vytalis to heal both of them up through the usage of their skills. Aurus, on the other hand, seemed to have stopped after seeing them heal themselves, allowing the side of his primal instinct that sought pleasure in inflicting pain to be more prominent.

    Though, while waiting for them to heal, Aurus could not help but think as to why he hadn¡¯t used all of these skills while eradicating the towns before. Of course, it did not take long for him to realize why, knowing that showing greater strength would turn into a greater threat, making a lot of strong individualse to where he was to defeat him. Then again, he could proportionally adjust his speed of improvement, eradicating entire cities in exchange for a higher chance to be caught by those strong individuals. After all, with higher riskse higher rewards.

    With that, he decided to only activate one or two skills that enhanced his attributes, not like what he was doing right now that intensified his strength to a level that would make incredibly powerful individuals to move. By the time the two Spiriveritae were fully healed, Aurus increased the amount of des making up therge w behind him, increasing the number of des by tenfold.

    At this point, a hint of an otherworldly aura could be felt from the w, immediately instilling a sense of dread and fear into the two as they hastily thought of a way to mitigate the damage they received from this next attack. If they did not mitigate it, although they would feel no pain, the amount of vitality they would have remaining would be next to none. At that point, they would be no different from punching bags.

    And so, the two of them quickly conjured arge barrier that covered the two of them. Naturally, Aurus thought of it as a mere defensive barrier, indifferently using the w that had gottenrger to break it and inflict more injuries to both Vytalis and Mannelyn. However, at the exact moment the w and the barrier had collided, the two instantly infused a great amount of energy into it as a portion of the attack power was reflected back to Aurus!

    ¡°[Transcendent Spirit-Vitality Unification: True Mirror Bulwark]!¡±

    Whoosh!

    Bang!

    Bang!

    At that instant both Aurus and the two were sent flying in opposite directions, increasing the distance between the two to over 50 kilometers just from this attack alone. At this moment, it was quite surprising that Aurus had note across any town as of yet as he was sent flying. Well, to be more exact, he actively ignored all of these towns for now, giving them a false sense of security that The Great Cmity had ended¡­or something along those lines.

    As for Vytalis and Mannelyn, they could not help but let out a sigh of relief that the amount of vitality that was shaved off of them was something they could heal within minutes if they fully focused on recovery. Naturally, they did just that, with Mannelyn manipting the energy circting within their bodies to allow them to recover faster.

    But of course, they didn¡¯t just stop there. While healing their injuries, they thought about the next move, with Mannelyn muttering, ¡°At this point, the level of power he¡¯s showing is equivalent to someone with aprehension level of 70 or above. Only one being could stand up against that strength among the Spiriveritas.¡±

    ¡°So, you¡¯re saying we should call him?¡± Vytalis asked in response, to which Mannelyn shook her head as she replied, ¡°Yes and no. We always make sure that we can call him, but let¡¯s test our limits first. After all, our pride as the Spiriveritae that came before Verdante is on the line here.¡±

    ¡°Sure, I guess,¡± Vytalis said, shrugging her shoulders as she continued to heal their injuries. ¡°But what if his strength increases yet again on the next attack?¡±

    ¡°Then, there¡¯s only one thing left for us to do, right?¡± Mannelyn said, a wry smile appearing on her face. ¡°To think a younger Spiriveritas would be stronger than us two, it¡¯s quite embarrassing.¡±

    ¡°We¡¯ve just cked on ourprehension, that¡¯s all,¡± Vytalis said in response,forting Mannelyn. ¡°I¡¯m sure that as long as we focus on increasing ourprehension, there will eventuallye where we¡ª¡±

    Bang!

    Unfortunately for Vytalis, just before she could finishforting her friend, the sight of a dark red being with arge w made out of des soon appeared in their field of vision. Not only that, but it seemed like the being was increasing the size of the w even more, the otherworldly aura emanating it getting even stronger.

    Eventually, the being had increased the size of the w to the limit, with the w now looking quite simr to the w of a being famed for its strength in another world. Looking at the size of the w that was about to hit them, both Vytalis and Mannelyn knew that they truly were left with no choice but to do¡­that.

    ¡°Let¡¯s get this over with,¡± Aurus said to the two of them in his hoarse voice. Soon after, the entire w turned pitch-ck as the illusion of arge demon aiming to smash them into pulp soon appeared in the vision of both Vytalis and Mannelyn as he said, ¡°[Spellsword of Ruination: Ultimate Lost Art].¡±

    ¡°[Million Sword Embodiment].¡±

    ¡°[Otherworldly Summoning: True Lucifer w].¡±

    Swoosh!

    Using the same move as before, Aurusmanded the w to do a simple swipe on the bodies of the two, aiming to end this faux game of cat and mouse. But before the w could hit the bodies of the two, both Vytalis and Mannelyn soon shouted the name of a being that made Aurus stop for a bit.

    ¡°Erudis!¡±

    Bang!

    ¡°You called?¡±

 Chapter 393: The First Versus The Thirteenth

    Chapter 393: The First Versus The Thirteenth

    ¡°Erudis!¡±

    As if hearing a word that acted like a bane to his existence, Aurus could not help but stop swinging therge w for a bit, wondering if it would be wise for him to retreat from the being that they had called. However, the primal instinct instead decided that it was better for him to continue with the attack, wanting to make sure that if ever the being that was called came, he wouldn¡¯t have to fight against three people, just one.

    With that, he increased the speed at which he swiped the w, realizing that he had given the being more time toe to where the three of them were. Of course, in reality, thatpse in judgment was only around a few hundred milliseconds or so. Nevertheless, that was enough for a change to happen in what seemed to be the dead end for both Vytalis and Mannelyn as a loud explosion resounded just before the w could hit the two of them.

    Bang!

    Out of nowhere, arge rift opened up in front of therge w¡¯s trajectory as a seemingly frail ash gray hand came out to stop it. Normally, one would think that something so small would instantly give way to something so big. However, in an instant, multiple magic circles conjured around the ash gray hand as it gave off a more dominant aura. Eventually, the dominant aura had reached an incredible strength that the hand¡­just pushed the w away.

    Swoosh!

    Within seconds, the scales had been quickly tipped in the favor of both Vytalis and Mannelyn as the two looked at the being that had appeared in front of them with relief and glee. As for the being that had appeared, it had looked back at the two and said with a tone that was part indifferent and part boastful, ¡°You called?¡±

    ¡°You did tell us to call you when we thought we couldn¡¯t fight back anymore,¡± Vytalis replied as she watched the w that had been flung away by the being gradually dissipate into thin air. After that, she looked at Aurus, who was watching the ash gray being in front of the two with solemn expression. Combined with the extreme killing intent he emanated at the moment, it was unknown what was going on in his mind.

    Of course, the ash gray being that had appeared was none other than the progenitor of the Spiriveritae, being the first Spiriveritae to ever exist in the world of Erudinia. Due to this feat, he had gained control over the Epiphany of Omniscience. He was Erudis, the leader of the Spiriveritae, and the owner of the Inheritance of Erudition.

    ¡°Although I¡¯m not certain as to whether the you back then was just a facade, what I¡¯m truly certain of is the fact that you¡¯ve changed in that span of time, Verdante,¡± Erudis could not help but say, looking at Aurus, who was still covered in multipleyers of dried blood. In response, the malevolent aura Aurus briefly intensified as he dashed forth, condensing a huge amount of Wind energy particles in his right hand as a de with a dark streak manifested soon after.

    ¡°[Spellsword of Ruination: Lost Art].¡±

    ¡°[Penultimate de of the Chaotic Tempest, Fragarach].¡±

    Swoosh!

    Redirecting all of the strength in his body towards the de, he then quickly shed out diagonally, aiming to defeat Erudis with a single move. As for Erudis, he was quite surprised by the strength behind the move, wondering how Aurus was able to elevate his strength to such a high level within a short span of time. Nevertheless, he did not go easy on his opponent, conjuring a small magic circle in front of him before multiple spikes of light were shot out of it, all with the intent to defeat Aurus.

    ¡°[Radiant Omniscience: Myriad Fulgurite].¡±

    With a tone of indifference, he chanted the name of the spell he used as he easily pushed Aurus back before thetter¡¯s attack could even hit. With that, the de could only hit the ground, which trembled for a second due to the sheer strength it contained.

    Seeing as how his first attack had failed to hit his opponent, Aurus went ahead and conjured thousands of des around his body before shooting it all out towards Erudis, seemingly aiming to mimic the skill that Erudis was doing.

    ¡°[Spellswords of Ruination: Millennium Tempest destorm].¡±

    ng! ng! ng!

    With great speed, all of the wind des Aurus had conjured were seemingly aiming for the spikes of light that Erudis had created, wanting to make sure that none of them would be able to hit him from that point onward. Naturally, Erudis had an idea as to what Aurus was thinking, prompting him to stop the skill as he changed into another one.

    For a moment, Erudis did not have any method to fight back against Aurus¡¯s attack at all, only relying on a small barrier of energy in front of him. In any case, that still showed the amount of strength Aurusmanded when he was serious, something that was of rare urrence after his body had been fully controlled by the primal instinct. Though, as time passed, it seemed that the primal instinct was bing wiser, gradually allowing Aurus¡¯s body a level of strength even he had never seen before.

    While Aurus continued to bombard Erudis with swords of wind, Erudis eventually retaliated as he sent out a shockwave to the barrier, briefly giving him time to prepare his next skill.

    Swoosh! Swoosh! Swoosh!

    In less than an instant, threeyers of magic circles surrounded Aurus, making his primal instinct wonder as to what was going to happen next. Fortunately, it did not take long for the next attack toe out as Erudis hastily infused the magic circles with a lot of energy, forming white crystals around Aurus¡¯s body as the crystals gradually grew to create a tree made out of white crystal.

    ¡°[Evesting Omniscience: Luminous Tree Seal].¡±

    Kacha!

    As if the skill was responding to Erudis¡¯s words, the sound of something being locked soon resounded out from the crystal tree while Aurus stayed motionless within it. Seeing how the problem was solved so easily by Erudis, both Vytalis and Mannelyn could not help but swear to themselves once more, with greater fervor, to increase theirprehension over their respective Epiphanies, feeling embarrassed after seeing the strength both Aurus and Erudismanded.

    Though, before they could stare at what Erudis had done for any longer, Erudis looked back at them and said in his usual tone of indifference, ¡°If I were you, I would suggest leaving this ce as soon as possible and let me take care of this.¡±

    ¡°Eh? Why though?¡± Vytalis could not help but ask. ¡°Didn¡¯t thest skill you use make him unable to mo¡ª¡±

    Crack¡­crack¡­

    Just before Vytalis could finish her next statement, the crystal tree had finally shown a few hairline cracks on its surface, showing that Aurus was gradually breaking through the seal Erudis had made with raw strength alone. Knowing very well that the two of them would just be burdens at this point onward, Vytalis and Mannelyn instantly made up their minds to leave, but not without leaving Erudis something behind.

    Swoosh! Swoosh!

    Within moments, arge bundle of pink and cyan energy coalesced around Erudis, making him nod in gratitude at the two as the two quickly hurried off back to their respective ces. As for Erudis, who now had a way to replenish his vitality and energy at any moment, he looked at the crystal tree that was eventually going to shatter with great interest.

    ¡°I may not have put in a lot of energy into the seal I made, but for him to break through it with sheer strength alone is quite the sight,¡± Erudis muttered, conjuring another magic circle as he prepared for the exact moment Aurus broke out of the seal. Eventually, after a few more seconds, the crystal tree finally shattered, prompting Erudis to attack with one of the stronger skills in his arsenal.

    ¡°[Radiant Omniscience: All-piercing Spear Brionac].¡±

    Whoosh!

    In Erudis¡¯s mind, the attack would be enough to injure Aurus to a certain extent, or better yet, incapacitate him for a certain amount of time, allowing him to unleash a stronger attack. But rather than the spear of light he had shot out to create such an effect, what happened instead¡­definitely came out of left field for Erudis.

    ¡°What?¡±

    Crackle¡­crackle¡­

    Aurus, who had shown great might a few moments ago, was gradually turning into specks of green light as his body slowly disintegrated amidst the crystal tree. Confused, Erudis went closer to the crystal tree to see what was happening.

    But just as he was only a few steps away to finally seeing the truth¡­

    Bang!

    Out of nowhere, arge w made out of des of wind swatted Erudis as if he was a house fly, sending him flying for a few kilometers. A few secondster, the silhouette of a familiar being gradually appeared at the spot where Erudis previously stood, his gaze an enigma as he watched Erudis get farther and farther away from him.

    Surprisingly, it was Aurus! Considering what he currently looked like, it did not seem like he had rued any injuries from Erudis¡¯s attack at all. Well, that was because¡­

    He really didn¡¯t.

    Instead, his primal instinct had be wiser once more, prompting him to use more and more of the skills in his arsenal to a greater extent. And the skill his primal instinct had chosen to focus on for the moment¡­was [Flux Knight].

    Indeed, the same [Flux Knight] Aurus thought back then to be of lesser priority as it did not increase his strength by that much. Under the control of the primal instinct, it had shown great prowess as a skill that could be used to fool opponents in thinking they had defeated the opponent they were fighting. Of course, its original purpose went beyond that, but at the moment, the usage of the skill as a decoy was truly perfect.

    However, as Aurus redirected his vision towards the decoy that had just shattered in the middle of the crystal tree he was previously sealed in, he then circted a bit of his energy as two copies of him soon appeared in front of him.

    Wait a second¡­two?

    With him absorbing the All-seeing Comprehension Leaf, the speed at which he gained experience was truly at a level all beings would be envious of. Even the single activation of [Flux Knight] alone was enough to max out its level, giving Aurus the choice to evolve it.

    And surprisingly¡­he took it.

    ¡°Evolve [Flux Knight],¡± hemanded in his hoarse voice, watching as the decoys in front of him gradually transform. After a few seconds, the decoys had be more lifelike. May it be the aura surrounding them, or the presence they gave off, it was more or less simr to what Aurus gave off. On top of that, they even had the ability to emte a portion of the power in the skills Aurus used.

    From this point onward, the skill had veered off from its original name of [Flux Knight]. Instead, it would be more apt to call it by its evolved name.

    [Flux Doppelganger].

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    As another decoy was able to be created thanks to the skill evolving, Aurus and the three decoys soon headed to where Aurus thought Erudis hadnded. After arriving at the area, the only thing that served as evidence that Erudis had indeednded in the area was the fact that a decently sized crater was made on the ground. If not for that, it would be hard to find where he hadnded.

    Naturally, knowing that a threat like Erudis could attack him at any time, Aurus did not hesitate to go all out and use the decoys to his advantage, using them as his method of surveince as his experience with the skill increased, allowing him to create more of them. Eventually, Erudis had shown himself, even engaging inbat with one of the decoys, giving off the feeling that he had not realized he wasn¡¯t fighting against the true Aurus.

    However, when Aurus watched the fight happen from afar, Erudis looked in his direction after a while with a knowing smile, giving Aurus chills as arge magic circle appeared under his feet.

    ¡°Hehehe.¡±

    ¡°Found you.¡±

 Chapter 394: Ruler of All

    Chapter 394: Ruler of All

    Sporting a smile that was incredibly rare to see on his face, Erudis looked at Aurus as he quickly conjured a magic circle, shooting out a beam of light that seemed to move way faster than any of the other attacks he had shot out so faster.

    ¡°[Unshackled Omniscience: Relentless ze].¡±

    Whoosh!

    Although Erudis had fired the skill towards Aurus, rather than head straight for Aurus directly, it instead headed towards one of the decoys he had made. Naturally, such a move confused Aurus quite a lot, since even his primal instinct thought that a direct attack would be the quickest way to end a fight. Though, at the very moment the beam of light destroyed one of his decoys, his question was answered then and there.

    Schwing!

    As if it had absorbed all of the energy that was made to create the decoy, the beam of light stopped for a moment as it seemed to have gained a few wings slightly far away from what could be considered the head of the beam. Soon after, the wings then shot out smaller beams of light, propelling the beam of light as a whole at a speed that even Aurus couldn¡¯t follow his sense of vision on.

    However, after seeing what the beam could do after destroying one of his decoys, Aurus instantly made a decision in his mind, dispelling all of the remaining decoys that had been created through [Flux Doppelganger]. In response, Erudis let out a light chuckle as he turned his body to face Aurus, saying, ¡°Well, you¡¯re no fun.¡±

    At this moment, the indifferent and somewhat haughty Erudis was nowhere to be seen. Instead, an Erudis, whose me forbat had been rekindled, was now avable for all people to see. Even emotions that would be rare to see on Erudis¡¯s face was on constant disy, which would surely shock the other Spiriveritae once they know of it.

    Of course, that was only because Erudis was forced to use all of the skills in his arsenal to trade blows with Aurus. And that was even considering the fact that hisprehension over his Epiphany was over Level 80 at this point, the closest any of the Spiriveritae had gotten to reaching the max level.

    Whoosh!

    Even though he said those words to Aurus, he continued to redirect the now upgraded beam of light towards Aurus, wanting to do some sort of barrage that would make it hard for thetter to dodge. Naturally, it did not take long for Aurus to think that something like that would happen, prompting him to use his movement skill as a decoy of his took his ce.

    After that, he quickly teleported a few more times, wanting to make sure that his traces weren¡¯t seen. Then, in a massive turn of events, Aurus started to activate and deactivate [Flux Doppelganger] a countless amount of times.

    Whoosh! Swoosh! Whoosh! Swoosh!

    For a while, in one part of the wilderness, the sound of something forming and then dissipating off into thin air could be heard incessantly. As the one who was doing this, Aurus, or to be more exact, the primal instinct controlling his body at the moment, was now discovering more and more things it could do with Aurus¡¯s body, such as hastily improving and evolving what would normally be a weak skill to something that would make multiple beings envious.

    Crash!

    As for the upgraded beam of light, it crashed against the decoy that stood where Aurus previously was, instantly destroying the decoy as the beam absorbed its energy to upgrade its form. Seeing the result of the sh, Erudis could not help but imitate the sound of one clicking their tongue as the wings surrounding the beam gained more wings, improving the speed and power behind the beam as it moved.

    However, feeling that the beam wouldn¡¯t be able to hit Aurus no matter how hard he tried, Erudis dispelled the beam, collecting all of the energy that the beam had absorbed and used it to return his condition back to its peak. While doing so, he could faintly hear the sounds of something being made and broken multiple times in a short span of time, easily figuring out that Aurus was there.

    But surprisingly, rather than heading to where Aurus was and ambush him, Erudis instead stayed where he was as he released a bit of his energy, aiming to use the energy to create a clone of himself that would be able to emte some of his properties.

    Well, as someone who had control over the Epiphany of Omniscience, he already had the skill to do such a thing, it¡¯s just that it took quite a long time for him to do so. Now that he was pressed for time, he was using the pressure of being ambushed back to improve the speed, as well as the number of clones he could conjure.

    ¡­

    After what seemed to be ten minutes of both parties doing whatever they did to increase their advantage, Erudis looked at the clones he had conjured, satisfied with how much he had improved within such a short span of time.

    In front of him stood nine entities that had the same appearance as him, as well as the same presence as him. If not for the fact that one would realize they were clones if they looked closely, Erudis would have perfected the art of making clones.

    Though, just as he was about to head to where Aurus was, relying on the sound he was emitting back then, the sound of leaves rustling soon resounded near him, eventually revealing an Aurus that hade alone.

    Seeing how the battle seemed to be in his favor, Erudis could not help but exude a great amount of confidence. Nevertheless, he was still vignt as he felt that Aurus had not shown everything to him yet. With that, he surrounded himself with the nine clones he had made as he asked, ¡°Are you nning to concede, Verdante?¡±

    ¡°No,¡± Aurus sinctly replied. Though, soon after, an incredibly malevolent aura soon covered the vicinity of the area they were in as Aurus let out a rare chuckle, saying, ¡°Though, I could say the same thing to you.¡±

    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!

    In less than an instant, a great number of decoys that looked simr and felt simr to Aurus had appeared from behind the various trees and nts that covered the area they were in. As he looked at the number of decoys Aurus had made, he could not help but look at the number of clones he made and wonder how Aurus had improved in such a short time.

    Well, that was because Aurus had made way beyond nine clones. He didn¡¯t make just 10 clones¡­not 20 clones¡­not even 30 clones.

    He made a thousand clones.

    After activating and deactivating [Flux Doppelganger] in quick sessions, the speed at which he gained experience was vastly improved, only being hampered by the times he had to wait for his energy to recover. Nevertheless, within the span of ten minutes, he was able to improve the B-grade Mortal skill [Flux Doppelganger] to the X-grade Mortal skill [Myriad Flux Legion]. In fact, if he did not decide toe at the exact moment he had reached the max level for [Myriad Flux Legion], he would have probably evolved the skill to the C-grade Transcendent level.

    In any case, a thousand clones was more than enough to shock and overwhelm Erudis at the same time. But as he was the first Spiriveritas of Erudinia, he was not dismayed nor depressed by the sight that seemed to not work in his favor. Instead, he chose to go one step beyond what he was already doing, prompting him to let out a great burst of energy, wiping out around 10% of Aurus¡¯s decoys as he said, ¡°You know, this is the first time another Spiriveritas has forced my hand.¡±

    ¡°Well, whatever happens to you from here on out¡­¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t regret it, okay?¡±

    ¡°[Unshackled Omniscience: Ascension Art].¡±

    ¡°[Metanoia Sage Form]!¡±

    Swoosh!

    Within an instant, the aura Erudis was emanating had far surpassed the intensity of the aura surrounding Aurus, as well as a small portion of the decoys Aurus had madebined. Adding onto the great improvement in his aura and power was his appearance, which seemed to have brought him back to his heydays as his ash gray bark gradually turned silver, making him give off the feeling that he was a being that transcended the world he treaded upon.

    Surprisingly, even the clones Erudis created had undergone a change, changing their appearances to his current one. Of course, the increase in aura and power wasn¡¯t anywhere near as substantial as the one to Erudis. In any case, Erudis had never entertained the thought of using his clones other than tobat Aurus¡¯s decoys.

    To him, this form was more than enough to fight Aurus and obliterate him many times over.

    Hovering in midair, Erudis then put on a slightly arrogant expression as he waved his right hand downward, forming arge de of light that aimed to destroy Aurus in one shot.

    ¡°[Metanoia Sage Art: Heavenly de¡¯s Descent].¡±

    Bang!

    Containing a great portion of his power into this one attack, the ground started to tremble as Aurus teleported out of the trajectory of the attack, hastily retaliating as he used his mastery over the element of Wind to levitate in midair.

    After stabilizing himself, he then willed a small portion of his decoys to jump to where Erudis was as all of them started to conjure des of wind at the same time. In response to the move Aurus was going to do, Erudis quickly brought up a barrier, only for him to hastily stack moreyers on top of it as he soon felt danger from the imminent attack.

    Swoosh!

    In less than a second, ws made out of a thousand des appeared behind all of the decoys, as well as Aurus. After that, a mysterious type of energy connected all of the ws together as a feeling of grandeur emanated from Aurus, something anyone had never felt from him before.

    ¡°[Domain of Nobility].¡±

    Not even a moment after, a domain wherein Aurus was the center soon spread out, reducing the amount of control Erudis had over the energy forming the barriers surrounding him, and even the energy maintaining his Metanoia Sage form. With that, he could not help but look at Aurus in shock, wondering how he was able to do something like this.

    Of course, such a strong skill could onlye from thetest evolution he had undergone, wherein his species was now considered a part of royalty. [Domain of Nobility] may not be the strongest skill one would obtain as being part of the royal line of a certain species, but it was enough to make what already seemed an unequal fight more unequal.

    ¡°[Ten-man Manifestation].¡±

    ¡°[Spellswords of Ruination: Ultimate Art].¡±

    ¡°[Myriad Sword Embodiment: Ten ws of Decadence].¡±

    Bang! Bang! Bang! Bang!

    One after another, the ws conjured by the decoys collided against the barriers Erudis had created, shattering it one by one as he gradually lost more and more control over the energy. Eventually, the ws from the decoys had shattered all of the barriers, leaving his bare body for Aurus to strike.

    And strike he did.

    Bang!

    Utilizing the remaining energy from the ws that haven¡¯t struck yet, Aurus fused them to the w behind his back as he condensed all of the power in his body towards this one swipe, sending Erudis flying before he soon followed after him through teleportation.

    Swoosh! Swoosh! Swoosh!

    While Erudis was flying in the air, he could not help but look at Aurus, who was following him, in shock as he did not expect to be defeated by someone he thought was weaker than him. With that in mind, he could not help but ask with genuine curiosity, ¡°What kind of being are you?¡±

    In response, Aurus solemnly replied in his hoarse voice, ¡°Someone you shouldn¡¯t have messed with in the first ce.¡±

    ¡°Anyways, it¡¯s time to end this.¡±

    ¡°¡­¡±

    ¡°[Ruler of All].¡±

 Chapter 395: The Taste of Defeat

    Chapter 395: The Taste of Defeat

    ¡°[Ruler of All].¡±

    Weeeengggg¡­!

    At the very moment he was finished muttering the name of the skill he used, a loud high-pitched sound soon resounded throughout the area, as if it was warning those in the area that something way beyond theirprehension was going on, something they did not want to be involved in.

    Soon after, the domain created by [Domain of Nobility] was instantly shattered as a domain that exuded more power was soon released by Aurus, bringing a faint dark green tint to the area covered by the domain. Of course, seeing how the domain stopping him from fully controlling his energy had changed, Erudis had regained control over his energy once more, allowing him to stabilize himself in midair as he quickly conjured multipleyers of barriers around him.

    However, within seconds, he soon realized that he would have no need for the barriers as he saw Aurus levitating at one spot for quite a while, not moving anything whatsoever. Though, a great contrast to this unmoving being was the aura surrounding him. With every second that passed, his aura gradually grew weaker, eventually returning the strength of his aura to the point before he even activated all of the skills that increased his attributes. Seeing this, Erudis instantly thought that Aurus¡¯s body had finally reached its limit.

    Of course, that thought did notst for long as the faint dark green domain surrounding them had be darker as Aurus¡¯s aura regressed to how it was. Just like how he sensed less and less danger from Aurus as his aura got weaker, Erudis sensed more and more danger from the domain surrounding them, making him wonder as to what Aurus was actually doing.

    Naturally, Aurus would never give him the chance to know what he was doing as he dashed forward, hastily conjuring a w made out of ten thousand des in the process. Although the number of des making up the w was more numerous than before with the decoys, the power contained behind it was nowhere near even the previous attack that Aurus did. With that, Erudis was brought into a sense of false security and rekindled confidence as he cast a slightly different looking barrier in front of him, aiming to reflect the whole brunt of the attack back to Aurus.

    Though, just as the w was about to collide with the barrier Erudis had made at thest moment, Aurus muttered out a few words, which instantly tipped the scales back to Aurus¡¯s favor.

    ¡°You don¡¯t need any protection.¡±

    Swoosh!

    In less than the blink of an eye, the reflective barrier was quickly dispelled in front of Erudis. The same went for the subsequent barriers that were closer to his body. Seeing how his barriers were dispelled in that moment, Erudis tried to conjure another barrier before the w could hit him, only to end up failing as he was soon hit by the w.

    Bang!

    Since it was weaker than before, Erudis wasn¡¯t sent out flying for too far. Though of course, Aurus wouldn¡¯t let him fly too far since that would remove his advantage.

    ¡°You don¡¯t need any gravity.¡±

    Whoosh!

    And just in the nick of time, before Erudis¡¯s body got out of the dark green domain, it stopped abruptly in midair as he felt that he had be weightless all of a sudden. With that, he tried to use his movement skill to stand himself upright, but the amount of force he used in each move he did was still the same as before he still had gravity affecting him, which meant he usually overshot his positioning at this time.

    Not giving Erudis the chance to adjust, Aurus decided to truly cripple him of his ways to retaliate, muttering, ¡°You don¡¯t need any energy.¡±

    Swoosh!

    And with that dictated, Erudis instantly lost all sensation of energy flowing throughout his body. Well, to be more exact, any energy he brought out of the body instantly dissipated no matter what he did. With this, he finally realized what had happened after Aurus lost all of his strength within a short span of time. In exchange for lesser power, he gained the power to manipte everything in a certain area as he saw fit.

    That was the true ability of [Ruler of All], something Aurus had rarely used.

    Slowly making his way to an incredibly vulnerable Erudis, Aurus was surprised that Erudis¡¯s determination was still there as he attacked in an old-fashioned manner, utilizing hand-to-handbat to at least injure him. But of course, with total control over the surrounding area, Aurus eventually stripped Erudis of the ability to move his limbs, truly making him vulnerable to any attack Aurus sent out at him.

    Seeing the opportunity that could not be wasted, Aurus went ahead and deactivated all of the decoys that were at the previous area before summoning all one thousand of them once more around the dark green domain. After that, he willed all of them to enter the domain before changing thews inside it wherein the attacks of the decoys are incredibly effective. Then, he increased the rate at which he and the decoys absorbed energy from the surroundings, allowing them conjure a great number of des that would even make Erudis, an incredibly old being, shiver in fear as he watched his impending doom gradually get closer.

    Eventually, Aurus had conjured enough des to send out the strongest attack he could achieve in his current state. Though, if it wasn¡¯t for the fact that he traded great strength for near-omniscient power, the attack would be stronger. Then again, that was the reason why he resummoned all of his decoys, wanting to at least send out an attack that had some strength into it.

    With that, all 1001 ws that gave off an otherworldly feeling were soon connected to one another through the use of some sort of mysterious energy, allowing a baleful aura to soon surround the domain as it gave off the feeling that entering the domain would lead one to the underworld. Then, Aurus dashed forward, bringing along all of the ws that the decoys had created with him, aiming to bombard Erudis with all 1001 ws at once.

    ¡°[Thousand-man Manifestation].¡±

    ¡°[Spellswords of Ruination: Ultimate Lost Art].¡±

    ¡°[Billion Sword Embodiment].¡±

    ¡°[Otherworldly Summoning: Myriad Corporeality Lucifer w].¡±

    Seeing as he had no way to escape from the attack, Erudis eventually submitted to the fate of dying in the hands of a weaker and younger Spiriveritas than him, closing his sense of vision as he waited for that fateful moment toe.

    ¡­but it did not.

    ¡®Hmm? Did someone stop Verdante from attacking me at the veryst minute?¡¯ This was the first thought that entered Erudis¡¯s mind. ¡®Surely, it wouldn¡¯t be Vytalis and Mannelyn, right? They¡¯re too weak to hold his attack back.¡¯

    ¡®Or is it because he wants me to have my eyes open before hends the final hit on me?¡¯ he soon thought, thinking that it was usible. After seeing how Vytalis and Mannelyn were near the verge of death by the time he arrived, he had a feeling that Aurus toyed with the two for a bit before dealing the final blow. With that in mind, he inwardly let out a sigh and opened his eyes¡­

    ¡­only to be greeted by nothing.

    At the moment, any traces of Aurus had disappeared, as if he had never been there fighting against him in the first ce. The same went for the dark green domain restricting him from anything and everything a while ago. It was now gone.

    Realizing this, he hastily utilized his energy to control himself from falling as confusion filled his mind. Right now, he could not help but wonder if the fight he had with Aurus was even real in the first ce. That showed just how jarring the change from before to now was.

    ¡°I know I¡¯m already pretty old, but my senses can¡¯t fool me that easily,¡± he soon muttered before deciding to ce the matter at the back of his head. Whether the fight was real or not did not matter to him anymore. What was real though was the fear and danger he felt while fighting Aurus. He knew very well that something like that was hard to replicate, even with the art of illusions.

    Feeling as if he could not change the winds of fate lingering around Aurus, he decided to make his way back to Mercuria Continent, thinking of his next move as a Spiriveritas, and as a whole as an organization overseeing the world of Erudinia.

    Along the way, he summoned an orb through a rift before infusing it with energy. Soon after, the image of a pink and cyan being appeared on the orb once more. Surprisingly, the beings on the orb were the first ones to talk, asking Erudis, ¡°How did it go?¡±

    With a sigh, Erudis replied, ¡°He escaped. Unexpectedly, he was stronger than me. Or at the very least, he has ways to restrict the amount of strength I can unleash.¡±

    ¡°Wouldn¡¯t he just be a bigger problem if we leave him be? At this rate, he might end up destroying the entirety of Maerr-viki Continent within a week!¡± Vytalis could not help but say. With that, Mannelyn suggested to Erudis, ¡°Is it possible to move all of the Spiriveritae to fight against Aurus?¡±

    ¡°Even if we did ask for the help of all the Spiriveritae, we would probably not get anywhere,¡± Erudis said, recalling how he was not able to do anything inside that dark green domain. ¡°With the skills he has, it¡¯s next to impossible for us to fight against him.¡±

    ¡°So, you¡¯re telling us that we should just leave him be?¡± Vytalis muttered, feeling defeated as she thought about it. Letting out yet another sigh, Erudis replied, ¡°Unfortunately, that would be the best action we could take. Though, if we had the help of the Transcendents in the Transcendent World, this wouldn¡¯t be so much of a problem.¡±

    ¡°If only that event didn¡¯t happen,¡± he muttered to himself, sighing inwardly as he thought about it.

    After a moment of silence, Erudis then told them, ¡°Vytalis, Mannelyn, once I get back, I want you two to use all of your resources and connections to create a strong informationwork throughout the continent to inform me of every move Verdante makes, as well as every move done by the continent against him. Of course, your safety should still be the greatest priority.¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t worry about us too much, Erudis,¡± Mannelyn replied, her tone slightly calm. ¡°After fighting against Verdante, we¡¯ve realized that we need to be stronger. With that, we might head to Mercuria Continent or any of the other continents sometime soon. Of course, we¡¯d still be doing surveince over Maerr-viki Continent from time to time That¡¯s our duty as a Spiriveritas, after all.¡±

    ¡°As long as you know what you¡¯re doing,¡± Erudis said in response before going silent for a bit, increasing the speed at which he moved to arrive at Mercuria Continent faster. With that, it only took him a couple more minutes to arrive at the border of the continent, letting him heave a light sigh of relief as he told the two, ¡°Ah, right. I think we¡¯ll be holding our 77th assembly sometime soon.¡±

    ¡°Eh? What¡¯s with the sudden announcement?¡± Vytalis could not help but ask, to which Erudis replied, ¡°I feel like a great amount of change would happen to your continent within these next few days, so the other Spiriveritae should be notified of it. Of course, if they offer to help you two out on the problem with Verdante, then it would be better done through the assembly as well.¡±

    ¡°When is the assembly going to be held, then?¡± Mannelyn asked in response, making Erudis ponder over his answer for a bit.

    ¡°Well, I¡¯m not too sure just yet. In the meantime, just wait for my announcement. I¡¯ll tell all of you to arrive here as soon as I make up my mind.¡±

    ¡°¡­Alright then. We¡¯ll be waiting.¡±

 Chapter 396: Aiming for the Cities

    Chapter 396: Aiming for the Cities

    While Erudis made his way back to Mercuria Continent, talking with Vytalis and Mannelyn regarding their next ns involving Aurus as an organization, Aurus, on the other hand, was hastily moving in the direction opposite Erudis. Well, to be more exact, he had only done a few teleports with [Zenith Nihility Dash] activated. Nevertheless, the gap between the two was already around 50 kilometers or so after those teleports. With Erudis heading back to Mercuria Continent, the gap was just getting bigger by the minute.

    Not sensing any danger from his surroundings anymore, Aurus could not help but let out a sigh of relief and satisfaction as it was the first time he had fought against someone so strong. Then again, he also considered both Vytalis and Mannelyn as strong beings, given how they were able to withstand quite a number of his attacks. In any case, the two still paled inparison to Erudis, who was more or less left unscathed unless he used his greatest skills.

    ¡°I need¡­to get even stronger,¡± Aurus muttered to himself, a rare asion given how his mind had already been taken over by the primal instinct. But surprisingly, his primal instinct agreed on this thought, prompting Aurus to think of his next n regarding the destruction of the cities.

    At the moment, all of the decoys he had created to attack Erudis in that final blow had been deactivated. If he dared to attack a town with such a shy skill like that, then it wouldn¡¯t be surprising if he was chased to the ends of the earth within minutes. Nevertheless, he did not think the same for the buffs that he still had activated.

    They weren¡¯t shy at all, so he had no need to deactivate it. Then again, the amount of energy each buff consumed reduced the amount of energy Aurus could work with. With that, he deactivated a great portion of the buffs he still had activated, only leaving [Dark Universal de] and [Zenith Nihility Dash], two active skills that were given to him by the Supreme Ruler of the Void.

    As he left them activated, he could not help but recall one of the passive skills in his arsenal, namely [Blessing of the Void¡¯s Ruler], the one he had obtained from the Area 52 Inheritance. It was gifted to him by the Supreme Ruler of the Void after showing a surprisingly high level of power while still being an S-grade Inanimate. Recalling what the description of that passive skill was, he eventually remembered that it allowed him to adjust the power of the active skills he currently had activated. With that, he reduced the output for [Dark Universal de] to the lowest it could go for now as he wasn¡¯t anywhere near a town just yet.

    Thinking about towns, he then returned his train of thought to his n regarding the destruction of the cities. Of course, at his full power, he would be able to destroy the cities without a problem. But then again, the primal instinct thought that it would be better for him to hide a great portion of his strength in the off chance strong beingse and apprehend him. With that, it was as if the decision was already made.

    Pondering in silence for a bit, he then decided that he would go ahead and destroy around eight or so more towns in one go before heading to a secluded area to digest the great boost in his strength. Given how only a few people remained in Darkstone Town after he took his time to adjust to his strength, the primal instinct thought it was better for him to go ahead and catch the towns off guard, allowing him to absorb all of the experience from the inhabitants of that town.

    With that, he increased the amount of energy he allocated to [Zenith Nihility Dash] to around double or triple or what it originally was, increasing the distance at which he could teleport to. Surprisingly, even though the distance between each teleport of his was now farther than it was before, he could not find any town at all even within a couple of minutes. Realizing this, he could not help but wonder as to how far he was from the nearest town, summoning a screen to show him a map of the continent.

    Of course, it was the primal instinct controlling him, making him imitate the sound of one clicking their tongue after he realized that the fight between him and Vytalis and Mannelyn, as well as the fight between him and Erudis nearly brought him to one edge of the continent. Closing the screen, he then increased the amount of energy to ten times of what he originally allocated to [Zenith Nihility Dash], only reducing it by a slight amount to achieve a slight surplus in his rate of recovery.

    Thankfully, with a general direction in mind, it did not take long for him to arrive in front of a town. Luckily for Aurus, it was also a town that was far away from the first two towns he had destroyed. Then again, judging by how the townspeople walked along the streets, there had already been some rumors circting throughout the town that their town might be the next target.

    Well, unfortunately for them, that was the truth. Shifting all of the allocated energy from [Zenith Nihility Dash] to [Dark Universal de], Aurus then teleported himself to a higher altitude, not giving the townspeople on the ground any chance for them to realize what was happening before it was toote. Conjuring a massive ball of wind, a hint of darkness circted around it, showing how its attack power was enhanced due to Aurus¡¯s control over the void.

    After he had made sure that the ball was filled to the brim with his energy, he then threw it towards the center of the town as he reduced the energy he allocated to the two skills, allowing him to recover his energy back to its peak at great speeds. In the meantime, a great portion of the townspeople on the bottom could only see arge green ball making its way to their town, wondering what its purpose remained. Sadly, they wouldn¡¯t be able to find out as the sheer pressure of the ball alone was enough to destroy them.

    Bang!

    With the augmentation in attack power brought by the enhanced [Dark Universal de], the crater that resulted from the collision of the green ball and the town was more than enough to crush the town that was previously erected there to turn into rubble¡­or at least, the part that barely survived. As for howrge the crater was, it was at least two to three timesrger than the previous craters he had made. Even the cracks that formed from the explosion were many timesrger, making one wonder if the cracks were there in the first ce.

    Surprisingly, while he examined the ce, checking there were still any survivors in the ce, he eventually found one that left the ce unscathed. Though, to be more specific, this person was just heading back to his home, only to see his town get turned into nothingness a few secondster. Left in a state of shock, he kneeled on the ground as he dropped the bag of items he had bought from a nearby vige. The only moment the man snapped back to reality was when Aurus appeared in front of him, being surrounded by a massive amount of Wind energy particles.

    It was unknown where the man had mustered the courage after recalling the rumor of The Great Cmity going around destroying towns, but he soon stood up with seething rage visible on its face. He then charged around, wanting tond an attack on Aurus as he shouted, ¡°You bastard!¡±

    Bang!

    But of course, Aurus wouldn¡¯t give him the chance, sending him flying with a simple gust of wind. Watching how he was blown away with a simple gust of wind, the amount of rage the man had for Aurus had reached an all-time high, yet he alsomented the fact that he wasn¡¯t any stronger. Thinking that he would now die under the hands of this murderer, he then closed his eyes, not wanting to see how he died.

    But instead, in a massive twist of events, Aurus did not kill him at all. Nevertheless, the disdain he radiated could still be felt as he muttered, ¡°Not worth the effort of killing.¡±

    Saying his piece, Aurus turned around, just about to teleport away when the man asked, controlling his rage, ¡°You bitch, you¡¯re just sparing me because you don¡¯t think I can get back at you? Mark my words, fuckface. You¡¯ll rue the day I get revenge.¡±

    In response, Aurus spared the man a nce before looking back at the direction he was going to head toward. After he was done allocating enough energy towards [Zenith Nihility Dash], he soon teleported. However, before he truly teleported away, he left the man a few words, taking on a tone that was as hoarse and grim as it could be.

    ¡°Then, go ahead. I, Aurus, The Great Cmity, shall be waiting for you.¡±

    ¡­

    After the rare act ofpassion Aurus did after he had destroyed his third town into nothingness, he did not do anything like that anymore, deciding to end everything as quickly as possible, knowing that towns near the third town he destroyed would soon alert the other towns of his arrival.

    And so came the destruction spree Aurus went on, obliterating a total of seven towns within half an hour, bringing the total number of towns and viges he had destroyed to 10 and 5, respectively.

    At the very moment he was done destroying the 10th town, a great mass of Wind energy particles surrounded him, making him look like a miniature green sun. Not only that, but it was a wonder as to how the Wind energy particles still circled around him even though the distance between the farthest Wind energy particle and him spanned about 20 meters or so. Nevertheless, Aurus did not care about any of that as he checked how much hisprehension had improved, imitating the sound of one clicking their tongue as he soon found out that hisprehension was now at Level 49.

    Of course, aprehension level of 49 was already higher than about half of the Spiriveritae that existed in the world of Erudinia, allowing him to unleash a power greater than them even without going all out. However, his dissatisfaction was not because of his level. Instead, he was dissatisfied by the fact that the number of people he had to kill greatly increased as he increased hisprehension level ever so higher.

    With that in mind, the primal instinct consoled him, telling him that he would be able to enjoy the pleasure of killing even more if hisprehension level needed more people for it to increase. But of course, Aurus thought about how he proceeded in destroying the towns earlier, wondering how he would derive pleasure from such a simple move like that.

    In any case, such trivialities did not matter to Aurus, cing such questions at the back of his head as he increased the amount of energy he allocated to [Zenith Nihility Dash] once more, wanting to head to a secluded ce where it would be hard for people to search for him. A few minutes after he had teleported to head towards a secluded ce, a group of people appeared over the remnants of the final town he had destroyed, shaking their heads in disappointment as they had missed Aurus¡¯s traces yet again.

    After they were notified that Aurus had gone on a destruction spree, the continent had decided to ce more importance on him, sending out a team of strong individuals that tried to track where Aurus was going to go next. But of course, with Aurus having ess to a teleportation skill, they were always unsessful.

    Around half an hourter, Aurus had finally found a ce where he would be able to digest the improvements he had obtained from the towns he had obtained. It was only after three days of staying in that ce did Aurus return to teleporting yet again. But of course, with greater strength, it was no surprise that he was now aiming for the cities.

 Chapter 397: The Other Side

    Chapter 397: The Other Side

    Maerr-viki Continent, Seraph Kingdom, inside an inn.

    ¡°A spy?¡± Vanadir could not help but look at the First Prince in front of him like he had a few screws loose or something. Naturally, as one of the people that¡¯s vying to be the crown prince in the war for the throne, Vanadir had already thought of nting spies in the teams of other princes in the past. However, he wasn¡¯t so heartless to nt spies in the teams of other princes just because he wanted to increase his chances of winning. Instead, he worked on the principle of retaliation. If a certain prince nted a spy in his team, then he would nt a spy back on that team. In his mind, it was basically trading blow for blow.

    Since no one had dared to nt spies in his team, he had eventually ced the thought at the back of his head, thinking of it as a trifling matter. However, with Zeldrion entertaining the thought of nting a spy in the Third Prince¡¯s team, he instantly could not help but ask, ¡°Are you sure you want to nt a spy? The other princes haven¡¯t nted spies on our teams, right?¡±

    ¡°Yeah, but why should we care about them?¡± Zeldrion replied. ¡°They¡¯ve formed an alliance with the Third Prince, meaning that the Third Prince is the main target of this n. Of course, we could utilize the members of the other princes¡¯ teams, but the efficacy would be lowerpared to if we just directly nted a spy in the Third Prince¡¯s team.¡±

    ¡°Alright. Let¡¯s say we do agree on nting a spy in the Third Prince¡¯s team. How are we going to do just that?¡± the Ninth Prince soon asked in response before continuing, ¡°You do know very well that just like us, he¡¯s handpicked all of his members for their unwavering loyalty.¡±

    ¡°That is indeed the case, but just like our members, there are still a few ways to get around such problems,¡± Zeldrion said with a light smile. He then exined to Vanadir, ¡°There are exactly two methods lingering in my mind that could be used in nting a spy into the Third Prince¡¯s team.¡±

    Not waiting for Vanadir to ask the question, a hint of killing intent emanated from him as he continued, sporting a slightly malevolent grin, ¡°The first method is to obviously kill one of his members and force him to hire a member that would swear fealty to us rather than him. Naturally, that member wouldn¡¯t show that he¡¯s close to us, but at certain times, he would act as our informer, telling us of the Third Prince¡¯s ns in advance.¡±

    Although Vanadir wasn¡¯t against killing, he did not think it was good to implicate people that just wanted to improve their lives into this n they were making. Shaking his head, Vanadir looked at Zeldrion and said, ¡°I instantly refuse that n. There¡¯s no need to implicate someone who just joined Arshe¡¯s team because they wanted to make their lives better. If you think it in the long run, it would be better to just not do that, lest we lose a person that might be incredibly capable in the future.¡±

    Hearing the Ninth Prince¡¯s words, the First Prince could not help but let out a chortle as he said, ¡°Well, I was already expecting you to decline the first method. I just wanted to let you know that the option was still possible if you ever agreed to it.¡±

    ¡°Anyways, moving on.¡± Zeldrion then rummaged something in his pocket before cing the item he had brought out on the table in front of them. Looking at the item that Zeldrion had brought out, Vanadir could not help but wonder what was so different with it. With a cursory nce, it was obvious that it was a small pouch used for carrying coins. Just as he was about to ask Zeldrion what was inside the pouch, thetter took the initiative, allowing Vanadir to see its contents.

    In an instant, Vanadir was left at a loss for words as the currency contained inside it was something he had rarelye across. Inside it¡­were Mana Stones! Of course, they¡¯re not just ordinary Mana Stones, but Rank 7 Mana Stones! On top of that, there were five of them!

    ¡°How¡­how were you able to procure something as precious as this?¡± Vanadir could not help but mutter in stupefaction. If it wasn¡¯t because of the fact that the two of them were allies under a mutual agreement, he would have probably snatched the pouch of mana stones from his brother already.

    Seeing the dazed expression on Vanadir¡¯s face, Zeldrion could not help but let out a light chuckle as he replied, ¡°These are all of the Mana Stones I¡¯ve rued during the past few years. In total, I think I spent around 80 million gold coins. If I were obtain one Rank 8 Mana Stone instead, then it would have cost me way beyond 100 million gold coins to get it. But of course, the second method would work out better that way. Too bad no one was willing to sell their Rank 8 Mana Stones.¡±

    Hearing how many gold coins Zeldrion spent to procure the Mana Stones in the pouch just blew Vanadir¡¯s mind even further. He knew very well that Rank 7 Mana Stones were rare and expensive, with auctions typically starting their sell prices for the stuff at around 10 million gold coins. But knowing Zeldrion, he was certain that he had only bought the Mana Stones when they were at their lowest. Even then, he still had to spend around 50% more than what it would originally cost!

    Nevertheless, Vanadir already knew what Zeldrion was nning to do, taking in a deep breath as he asked to make sure, ¡°So, you¡¯re going to use these Rank 7 Mana Stones to bribe one of Arshe¡¯s members, right?¡±

    ¡°Well, yes and no,¡± Zeldrion nodded as he replied. In response, Vanadir tilted his head in confusion, not understanding what the First Prince meant by that. Fortunately, the First Prince¡¯s next words rified it all up, telling him, ¡°To be more exact¡­¡±

    ¡°We¡¯re going to bribe Arshe¡¯s advisor.¡±

    ¡­

    After talking some more regarding the second n of bribing Arshe¡¯s advisor, Zeldrion had eventually left the innte into the night, leaving Vanadir and Dane on their own in the inn, save for the few staff that were still there to attend to the two.

    Letting out a sigh, Vanadir took a sip of the drink he ordered from the inn as Dane sat in front of him. Seeing Dane sit in front of him, Vanadir then asked him, ¡°What do you think the chances are for this n to work?¡±

    ¡°Judging by how much the First Prince is willing to sacrifice, then I wouldn¡¯t be surprised if it seeds in the first try, Your Highness,¡± Dane replied. ¡°Then again, we¡¯ll be notified of its results instantly through the informationwork, so there¡¯s no need to be so anxious.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s not that I¡¯m anxious of the n not working, instead I just wonder as to what would have happened if Zeldrion did not form a mutual agreement with me,¡± Vanadir said as he slightly shuddered in fear. ¡°To think that there¡¯s the possibility that all of my allies would turn their backs on me in that scenario, it¡¯s quite terrifying.¡±

    ¡°But that didn¡¯t happen, right?¡± Dane replied with a calming smile on his face. ¡°Right now, the First Prince is working with us to help fight against the Third Prince, even though our reasons might be different. Nevertheless, that¡¯s a good thing, no?¡±

    ¡°Well, you¡¯re right. I should really look at things from a more positive angle,¡± Vanadir said in response, letting out an awkward chuckle, only to stop as he noticed that Dane¡¯s expression had be serious all of a sudden.

    ¡°What¡¯s wrong,¡± the Ninth Prince asked, prompting Dane to look at him straight in the eye as a hint of hesitation could be seen in his gaze. Eventually, Dane let out a sigh as he thought it was better for Vanadir to know. With that, he told Vanadir, ¡°Your highness, we¡¯ve obtained news that there¡¯s a being near the outskirts of the kingdom going around destroying viges and killing its inhabitants for no reason.¡±

    Hearing that, Vanadir could not help but put on a solemn expression as he asked, ¡°How many viges has the person destroyed? How many people has the person already in?¡±

    ¡°ording to thetest reports I¡¯ve obtained, the person has destroyed three viges and is moving to their fourth one. As for the casualties¡­give or take 5,000 people, Your Highness,¡± Dane replied, making Vanadir suck in a breath of cold air.

    Pondering in silence for a bit, the Ninth Prince then asked Dane, ¡°What¡¯s the name of the person?¡±

    ¡°ording to those that were able to send a message before they were killed, the person called himself The Great Cmity,¡± Dane replied, prompting the Ninth Prince to scratch his head as he asked in response, ¡°Do you think there¡¯s a possibility that he would be a hindrance to our long term n?¡±

    ¡°In terms of our long term n as a whole, it¡¯s not much of an effect as most of the continent¡¯s strongest forces are congregated near the kingdoms and provinces,¡± Dane exined. ¡°But killing future pirs is quite a problem, don¡¯t you think, Your Highness?¡±

    ¡°Well¡­we¡¯ll have to wait and see if the problem gets worse or dies down,¡± Vanadir said as he suggested for the two of them to head back to the pavilion. In response, Dane nodded as he gave the remaining staff a small bonus, telling them to close up as the two of them teleported back to the pavilion.

    By the time they came back, they noticed that Valentia and Griselle were still awake, seemingly waiting for the two of them to arrive. In an instant, the two asked both Vanadir and Dane as to what they talked about with Zeldrion. Unfortunately for the two, Vanadir and Dane decided to keep mum about it for now, telling them that they would tell them at a better time.

    With that, the four of them then headed to their respective rooms, resting up for the following day as all of them more or less dreamed about the fun time they had with Erea on her birthday party. However, once sunrise had appeared, rather than waking up peacefully and heading down to the kitchen to make some coffee, Vanadir was instead rudely awakened by Dane in his room, who had also just woken up, judging from the sleepwear he was still wearing.

    Rubbing his eyes as he gradually came to, Vanadir asked in a groaning manner, ¡°What is it, Dane¡­? Why did youe to my room so early¡­?¡±

    ¡°Your Highness, it seems we have some horrible news,¡± Dane replied, his tone that of a fully awake person. Forcing the Ninth Prince to turn the gear in his mind, Vanadir eventually entered a slightly better state of alertness, asking, ¡°Is it¡­The Great Cmity?¡±

    ¡°Unfortunately, it is.¡± Dane nodded as he told Vanadir, ¡°We¡¯ve only just received this news, but ording to the reports, Red Juniper Town and Darkstone Town, two towns that contained Rank 5 ss holders, was destroyed in one hit by that person calling himself The Great Cmity, not even sparing the inhabitants that lived in those towns.¡±

    ¡°Are you¡­serious?¡± At this moment, Vanadir had no choice but to be fully awake, wondering how worse it could get. Fortunately, or unfortunately for Vanadir, Dane went silent for a bit more as his expression changed between that of shock and anger. Eventually, he let out a sigh as he told Vanadir with an even graver tone, ¡°Your Highness¡­there¡¯s some¡­¡±

    ¡°Just tell it to me straight, Dane. I think I have a feeling as to what has happened,¡± the Ninth Prince said as he interrupted him, standing up from his bed as he changed into his usual clothes, listening to Dane in the meantime.

    Ignoring the fact that the Ninth Prince was changing clothes, Dane lightly nodded as he said with a solemn expression, ¡°Before I tell you this, let me just say that this piece of news was just received by me right now. Being assisted by the First Prince¡¯s informationwork, the speed at which I receive news has been¡­¡±

    ¡°Just get straight to the point, Dane.¡±

    ¡°¡­Alright. ording to the news, the person calling himself The Great Cmity has gone on a rampage, obliterating eight towns within the span of thirty minutes. Just like the previous incidents, he has not spared any of the inhabitants at all. Judging by how our ss holders are distributed, around 10 or so Rank 5 ss holders have been killed. As for those at Rank 4, it might range around 200 to 300 people.¡±

    At the exact moment Dane was finished talking, Vanadir was coincidentally finished changing his clothes as well. cing his sleepwear by the side, he then let out a light sigh, scratching his head as he looked at Dane.

    ¡°Well, that¡¯s a problem.¡±

 Chapter 398: Night Mage Regiment

    Chapter 398: Night Mage Regiment

    Whoosh!

    Allocating most of his energy toward enhancing the effects of [Zenith Nihility Dash], Aurus started to teleport, aiming for the cities nearest to the ce he had been in seclusion in for the past three days or so. As Aurus teleported, the distance between each teleport was now multiple times farther than even before, all thanks to his higherprehension level regarding his Epiphany of Tempest. Well, there was also the fact that he had formted better ways to enhance the effects of his currently activated skills without spending much energy, allowing him to increase the efficacy of their effects to even higher extents.

    Nevertheless, with Aurus being able to teleport farther, it did not take too long for him to appear in front of a decently sized city. From what Aurus could see, he estimated that there were around 50 to 60 thousand people living inside the city he appeared in front of, a far cry from the usual number of people found in towns, ranging from 3 to 5 thousand people.

    Getting ever closer to the city, he reallocated his energy towards [Dark Universal de], aiming to obliterate the whole city in one go without anyone noticing. But as he arrived at the entrance gate to the city, he noticed that there was next to no person patrolling the gates at all. At most, there were only a few guards atop the city walls. On top of that, they weren¡¯t even doing their jobs seriously at all.

    Seeing how the security of the city was quitex, Aurus could not help but ponder as to what had happened to the city, which he soon found out was called Nachthexen City thanks to therge sign hanging above the entrance gate.

    Making sure that his presence was not sensed by other people, he then walked through the small streets of the city, noticing that only a few people dared to go out of their houses to head to other ces. Seeing this sight, Aurus could not help but recall a past memory wherein the same situation had happened. With that in mind, it did not take long for him toe to a conclusion as to why the city was like this.

    Naturally, the reason had all to do with him.

    After destroying eight towns in a row within a short span of time, the whole continent has finally deemed Aurus as a great threat to the peace and safety of the continent. Given how even the leaders of the towns, which were either at the peak of Rank 4 or were already at Rank 5, were easily killed by him, it wasn¡¯t surprising that the cities hade to a decision to restrict the movements of its citizens, lest they wanted to be caught up in the aftermath of an attack from him if he ever nned to head to the cities.

    Well, fortunately for them, Aurus did be disinterested after seeing only a few people move along the streets, inwardly regretting the fact that he decided to destroy all of those towns in a short span of time, making the remaining cities and towns change how they govern their cities. Nevertheless, the primal instinct controlling his body could not care less as to whether or not most of the inhabitants in the city were roaming outside or not. To it, it only cared about the results, not the process.

    And so, after roaming around the city for a bit to obtain a general idea as to how the city was currently like, Aurus then stopped at the end of an alleyway, allocating all of the energy he previously used on [Zenith Nihility Dash] to [Dark Universal de] to increase the strength of his attack once more. After that, he conjured a de of wind, which instantly gained a dark streak on the middle as it gave off a destructive aura.

    ¡°[Spellswords of Ruination: Lost Art].¡±

    ¡°[Penultimate de of the Chaotic Tempest: Fragarach].¡±

    Swish!

    Tightly gripping onto the hilt of the sword he had conjured, he then swung with as much strength he could muster, instantly sending out a de of dark green light that bisected all of the nearby houses within a certain radiusterally. Within seconds, as if all of the houses that were hit had lost their foundations, they all turned into rubble, killing all of the people that were in the houses. Then again, they would¡¯ve already been lucky to not have been bisected by the de, instead being killed by getting crushed under the weight of their houses.

    Crash!

    In that instant, a great portion of people peeked out of their windows and their houses, only to see that a small portion of their city had instantly turned into rubble without any known reason for their destruction. With that, almost the whole city had entered a state of panic, instantly thinking that The Great Cmity had finallye to take their lives. And so, most of the people continued to stay in their houses, hoping that The Great Cmity would only nce at them before turning away.

    As for a select few, they left their houses and headed to the area where the most rubble was, only to meet Aurus face-to-face. Naturally, with such strong people appearing in front of him, it was no surprise that he bisected all of those that came to fight against him. With a city being more prosperous than a town, it wasn¡¯t surprising if most of its citizens were already at around Rank 2 or 3, which gave Aurus more Wind energy particlespared to inhabitants from towns or viges.

    And so, Aurus continued to roam throughout the city, aiming for the houses on the outskirts for now. Within ten or so minutes, around 30% of the houses that were nearest to the city walls had already been obliterated. Surprisingly, with that amount alone, Aurus¡¯sprehension over his Epiphany had advanced by one level, thinking to himself that it was worth biding his time over something like this.

    Being spurred on by the fact that he would gain moreprehension levels through a city, he allocated a bit of energy towards [Zenith Nihility Dash], reducing the amount of time it took for him to arrive at a ce where he would be affect the most houses before shing out.

    ¡­

    While Aurus was making his rounds near the city walls of Nachthexen City, at the center of the city was a tower that stood about 50 meters tall, allowing one to overlook the entirety of the city from the top tower alone. Currently, a man in his thirties looked out of therge windows of the tower¡¯s top floor, watching as a small portion of the houses in his city get destroyed every five to ten minutes or so.

    With a sigh filled with sadness, he looked back at the people behind him, all of them having high positions in the city, though not as high as the position he had. This man was Joaquim Nachthexen, the leader of Nachthexen City, as well as a Rank 7 ss holder.

    ¡°ording to our reconnaissance team, the culprit for the destruction of these houses is indeed the being called ¡®The Great Cmity¡¯, leader,¡± one of the people said to him before asking, ¡°What do you think we should do, sir? Should we engage in an all-out assault?¡±

    ¡°Commander, I¡¯m sure you know better than me on what to do,¡± Joaquim replied to the person that asked, who was actually themander of the city¡¯s military. ¡°We¡¯ve already obtained reports that all of the people that tried an all-out assault died. Are you really sure you want to sacrifice your men for something that¡¯s futile?¡±

    ¡°But sir, what do you want us to do against a being that strong? Are you perhaps thinking of conceding against the being?¡± themander asked, to which Joaquim shook his head as he replied with a hint of confidence, ¡°Why would I concede that easily? I¡¯m just saying that we should find out the extent of his strength first before going all-out.¡±

    ¡°By that, sir, do you perhaps mean¡­¡± themander said, reading between the lines of Joaquim¡¯s statement as he looked at the other people beside him. At the moment, all of them had the same idea, given how they were the heads of their respective military teams. If their leader did have the same idea, then all they needed was just the go signal.

    Fortunately, Joaquim was indeed thinking the same thing, nodding as he looked at the three people in front of him with a solemn expression, telling them, ¡°Tell Night Mage Regiment No. 28 to engage with the enemy. Gabri, have one of your support teams back up the Night Mage Regiment.¡±

    Gabri, who was the leader of all the support teams apanying the military, nodded in response as she headed out of the tower as fast as she could. As for the remaining two, which was themander of the city¡¯s military, as well as another high official, they also headed out of the tower, nning to summon the Night Mage Regiment.

    ¡­

    Around half an hour since Aurus had entered Nachthexen City, about three-quarters of the houses near the city walls had been destroyed him. Of course, he made sure to also kill all of those that survived from having the weight of their houses crush them, ending them with a swift sh to the neck. As for those that were able to seed in escaping from their broken houses, aiming to run away from him before it was toote, they were unfortunately unable to, with Aurus appearing in front of them and letting them experience pain that was even worse than hell itself.

    With that, a decent portion of the city was now covered in the blood of its citizens, making those that remained in their houses wonder what the higher-ups of the city were doing. Were they just going to leave those that made the city what it was alone as they ran for their lives? Fortunately for them, just as they thought their city wasn¡¯t going to fight back, a beam of dark light was fired at Aurus, who hastily dodged with a swift teleport.

    Fwoosh!

    Since the dark beam of light did not hit him, it instead hit the ground, melting the materials making up the part of the road that was hit into a molten mess. As for Aurus, he quickly looked around, wanting to know where that dark beam of light came from. Unfortunately for him, the source of that dark beam did not show itself in front of him, instead shooting at him from far away as more and more dark beams of light were shot out at him.

    Watching the current situation between Aurus and the dark beams of light from afar on the top floor of the tower, Joaquim could not help but be expectant that they would be able to force Aurus to show all of his skills for them, looking back at the three that had slightly haggard expressions as he asked, ¡°How¡¯s Night Mage Regiment No. 28 faring?¡±

    ¡°ording to my connection with its members, the Night Mage Regiment is currently operating at 150% their usual level of power, knowing that they would have to fight against The Great Cmity or else they died,¡± themander said in response, prompting Joaquim to nod in response before looking at Gabri and asking, ¡°How about the support team backing up the Night Mage Regiment? How are they faring?¡±

    ¡°They¡¯re also operating at 150% their usual level, allowing the attacks of the Night Mage Regiment to be enhanced by 25% more than it would usually be,¡± Gabri responded as a light and proud smile could be seen on her face. ¡°I think this is the only time where we could say that our military is truly at its full power.¡±

    ¡°Indeed.¡± Joaquim nodded as he smiled in response to Gabri¡¯s words. He then looked at the person that apanied themander and asked, ¡°How about you, Niks? Have you equipped all of them with the best equipment we could offer them?¡±

    ¡°But of course, Sir Joaquim,¡± Niks responded with a proud smile on his face. ¡°As the greatest cksmith of this city, I am highly certain that the equipment I gave them is of the greatest quality I could achieve.¡±

    ¡°Well, you better hope it is,¡± Joaquim replied as he looked out of the tower once more, noticing that the number of beams being shot out had be more frequent. ¡°This fight shall dictate the survival of Nachthexen City as a whole.¡±

 Chapter 399: Overestimating Ones Capabilities

    Chapter 399: Overestimating One¡¯s Capabilities

    Fwoosh! Fwoosh! Fwoosh!

    As time passed, the number of dark beams that were shot at Aurus had be more frequent, turning the road surrounding Aurus into a molten mess of materials that would probably be a perfect ce to have a barbecue party. Nevertheless, Aurus hastily dodged all of it with small yet quick teleports, allowing him to disappear from his spot for one second, then reappear on the other.

    Seeing as to how their enemy had not given them any chance to find out any of its weak spots, Joaquim could not help but look at the three behind him and ask, ¡°Do you have any possible solutions as to how we could tip this stalemate to where it would be in our favor? Krabel, do you have any ideas?¡±

    Krabel, which was actually the name of themander of the city¡¯s military, went silent for a bit before replying with a solemn expression, ¡°There are a few solutions we could possibly employ, but most of them wouldn¡¯t work on a being that¡¯s on the same level of strength as The Great Cmity in front of us. In the end, that only leaves us with one choice.¡±

    As Krabel mentioned the term ¡®only choice¡¯, both Niks and Gabri could not help but look at him with a hint of fear in their eyes. With such a gaze, it was apparent that the two of knew what he was talking about. Sensing the atmosphere surrounding the three of them, giving off the feeling that they did not want to resort to such a move, Joaquim put on a solemn expression as he asked with a hint of hesitation, ¡°Is this solution¡­possibly going to jeopardize our lives?¡±

    ¡°There is indeed a high chance,¡± Krabel replied with a nod. ¡°If the support team Gabri chose works with Night Mage Regiment No. 28 as if they were an extension of the regiment¡¯s limbs, then there¡¯s a possibility that all of them would only be severely injured at most. However, if the two aren¡¯t working in harmony and in tandem, then you could say that Nachthexen City doesn¡¯t exist from this point onward.¡±

    Weighing the pros and cons of the choice Krabel was giving him, Joaquim went silent as he wondered if such a move would be for the betterment of the city. In the end, he decided to just do it as the strength Aurus had shown was already far beyond what the three of them could handle at once. If such a risky move would give them the chance to find out another of his moves, then that alone would be more than enough of a victory for them.

    With that in mind, Joaquim looked at Krabel, who could not help but let out a big sigh as he had a feeling that the final decision would be something like this. Scratching his head as he looked at Gabri, the two of them nodded at each other as they soon sent out the same message to the respective teams they managed.

    ¡°Everyone¡­¡±

    ¡°Initiate the Dark Catharsis Formation.¡±

    ¡­

    While Aurus continued to dodge the dark beams that just barely missed him with every shot, the primal instinct in his body started to wonder if it could use the dark beams to its advantage. Namely, it was entertaining the thought of having the one shooting those dark beams chase after him, but instead of shooting the dark beam at him, it would instead hit the houses, burning the house and the people living in it into mes.

    After thinking about it for a while, Aurus did not think that it was a bad idea, though it would gradually get harder and harder for him to fool the one shooting the dark beams since they would graduallye to realize that he was intentionally making them shoot at him. In any case, he knew that the power contained inside those dark beams would be more than enough to destroy two houses in one go. Of course, two houses might not seem a lot, but with how frequent the dark beams were being shot, it wouldn¡¯t be able if Aurus was able to utilize it to increase hisprehension level.

    Unfortunately for him, just as he was about to put the n he had created around the dark beams into action, the dark beams eventually stoppeding down all of a sudden, bringing a rare lull to the outskirts of the city. Then again, after Aurus had killed a lot of people along the way, there was already a lull, though it was more eerie than rare.

    Wondering if it was better for him to just teleport to another ce and continue killing innocent people to increase hisprehension level, Aurus eventually turned around until he finally felt the presence of arge amount of energy radiating from the skies. With that, Aurus finally knew where the dark beams wereing from, prompting him to sh out towards the skies as multiple des of dark green light headed towards where he felt the energying from.

    In an instant, the clouds, which previously shrouded the being who Aurus thought was sending out all of those dark beams, had now dissipated, revealing the true identity of the being¡­or better yet, beings?

    Indeed, instead of a strong individual fighting against Aurus head-on with a bombardment of dark beams, in reality, it was a group of 7 people in pitch-ck clothes working in tandem and in order to keep up a high tempo of sending out fire beams. These 7 people made up Night Mage Regiment No. 28, the strongest Night Mage Regiment in the city, as well as the strongest part of the military overall.

    Seeing as to how their cover was blown so quickly with just one swift move, the Night Mage Regiment could not help but look at Aurus with a hint of rage in their eyes as he had reduced the advantage they previously had. Then again, after a while, the rage in their eyes disappeared as what reced them instead was the feeling of multiple bottomless abysses. It was as if one would feel like they were in arge void if they looked at them.

    Completely oblivious as to how they had appeared in that ce or how they were able to force him to stand on one spot for most of the time, Aurus went ahead and retracted the de of wind he had made through [Spellswords of Ruination]. In that instant, the members making up the Night Mage Regiment instantly felt that their chances of winning had gotten higher since he was not wielding any weapons at all now.

    With that in mind, the members hastily urged those from the support team to hasten the linking process between the two teams. Fortunately, the two teams were able to fully link to one another, allowing both sides to use over 200% of their original power and activate the mode that both Krabel and Gabri termed the ¡®Dark Catharsis Formation¡¯.

    ¡°From the gates of hell in silence¡­¡±

    ¡°We cast our spells with explosive violence!¡±

    ¡°[Dark Catharsis Formation: Nebulous Ray]!¡±

    Fwoosh!

    Rather than numerous dark beams raining down from the skies to where Aurus was, what instead greeted him was arge dark beam that was being surrounded by smaller dark beams around it. Soon after, these smaller dark beams circled around therge dark beam before fusing with it altogether, increasing the prative power of the beam, as well as the force behind it.

    Seeing thisrge dark beam get closer to him, Aurus, or to be more exact, the primal instinct controlling him could not help but be excited as it would allow his original n of killing the inhabitants of Nachthexen City with a borrowed knife to be done at greater speed and efficacy. With a light yet malevolent smile on his face, Aurus tightly gripped on his de as he reduced the amount of energy he allocated towards [Dark Universal de] as he activated a skill he had not used before.

    ¡°[Imprable Shield of Nil].¡±

    Whoosh!

    In less than an instant, a thinyer of dark haze covered his body, making it give off the feeling that anything wouldn¡¯t be able to pass through it, let alone the dark beam that was going to hit him anytime soon. However, rather than letting his body tank the force behind the dark beam, he instead did something else, which made those watching the battle unfold from afar at the tower both happy and appalled.

    ¡°[Spellswords of Ruination].¡±

    ¡°[Hundred Sword Embodiment].¡±

    ¡°[Nether Aegis w].¡±

    Just as therge dark beam was about ten meters away from where he was, Aurus hastily conjured a hundred des of wind before imbuing them with the energy radiated by [Imprable Shield of Nil]. Not long after that, he increased the amount of energy being used up by the skill as the w gradually turned dark. With that, he swiped the beam away with the w, which surprisingly changed the course of the beam to hit the houses that were in its trajectory.

    Not letting the chance pass up, he imbued the now deflected dark beam with a hint of the energy in his de, allowing the coverage of the beam to somewhat expand beyond what it normally was. With that, two whole streets¡¯ worth of houses were destroyed in one go, without Aurus having to exert much effort into doing so.

    Seeing as to how one of their strongest attacks was being used to kill the inhabitants of the city, inhabitants that these people may have known, the members making up the Night Mage Regiment could not help but allow their rage to consume them. On one hand, allowing themselves to be consumed by their rage would allow them to unleash a level of power at least twice as powerful as they previously were. But on the other hand¡­

    There was a chance that they would die due to their carelessness.

    Nevertheless, they still continued on attacking Aurus with the Dark Catharsis Formation, allowing thetter to capitalize on the sheer power behind the beam as more and more houses near the city walls were destroyed one by one. In fact, utilizing the borrowed de of the berserk Night Mage Regiment, Aurus was eventually able to demolish all of the houses that were near the city walls, increasing hisprehension level by two levels above what it was before he entered the city.

    Naturally, he did not stop just there, continuing onward into the inner sections of the city. With the inner sections of the city housing people that were holders of higher ranks, the amount of Wind energy particles that Aurus obtained from the same number of houses he demolished was at least triple to quintuple the amount he would get from the houses near the city walls.

    As for Joaquim and the others watching from afar at the tower, they could only look at the current scene in front of them in silent rage, wondering how such a being would be able to use their own forces against them. Of course, Krabel and Gabri, the ones managing the Night Mage Regiment and the regiment¡¯s support team, respectively, called out to the two teams to stop. But unfortunately, as their minds were clouded with rage, they did not heed their words at all.

    With that, Aurus was also able to demolish the entire inner section of the city within an hour, bringing the total amount of time he had stayed in the city to two hours. At that point, only one building remained that stood erect in the city. Unsurprisingly, it was the 50 meter tower wherein Joaquim and the others were in.

    Looking at the tower, Aurus could not help but feel the presence of a few beings that were at a level of strength he had never felt before. Wondering as to how much Wind energy particles they would be able to give him, he then reallocated all of his energy towards [Zenith Nihility Dash], disappearing at the spot he was standing on just before therge dark beam could strike him once again.

    Whoosh!

    Sensing the presence of another being appearing on the tower they were on, Joaquim and the others could not help but redirect their attention as to who this neer was, only to freeze up in their ces as they looked at the being with great horror and fear in their eyes.

    As for the being that appeared in front of him, it only muttered a few words in his hoarse tone, letting out a grim chuckle after that.

    ¡°You have truly overestimated your capabilities.¡±

    ¡°Hehehe.¡±

 Chapter 400: Garnering More Attention

    Chapter 400: Garnering More Attention

    ¡°So, what do you n on doing next, Your Highness?¡± Dane asked in response to the slight frown that had appeared on Vanadir¡¯s face. In response, Vanadir went silent for a bit as he seriously pondered over the things he could do. Judging by how fast the person called The Great Cmity was destroying towns and viges alike, it wouldn¡¯t take long for the person to go ahead and crush cities into rubble. Perhaps, it might even destroyrge provinces and eventually¡­the kingdom itself.

    Naturally, it was just the Ninth Prince¡¯s imagination quickly thinking up of the worst-case scenario. But even though he knew it was the worst-case scenario, he could not help but have the feeling that there was a chance for it to actually happen. With that in mind, he decided to prioritize the matter of The Great Cmity first, which was quite a no-brainer since the war for the throne was still about eight months away. Depending on whether The Great Cmity bes a greater problem in the future, there might be no war for the throne for the princes to even participate in.

    With that, Vanadir quickly headed out of his room to head towards the kitchen, making a cup of coffee for himself and Dane as he told thetter, ¡°I know this might be too much to ask from you at this time of day, but I want you to contact and ask the other princes if they¡¯re willing to hold a conference through mana regarding this current incident. Of course, you just have to pass on the message to their advisors. After that, it¡¯s up to them as to whether they ept or not.¡±

    ¡°Understood, Your Highness,¡± Dane replied with a nod. However, before he started manipting the mana in the surroundings to achieve what Vanadir asked from him, he surprisingly extended one of his hands to Vanadir, prompting the Ninth Prince to tilt his head in slight confusion.

    ¡°Coffee, Your Highness. You don¡¯t expect me to handle all of this with a sleepy mind, do you?¡± Dane said soon after with a light smile on his face, making Vanadir let out a light chuckle as he passed one of the cups of coffee he made to Dane. After taking a sip of the coffee, Dane then entered a state of immense concentration, manipting each and every strand of mana in the surroundings as he made sure that the strands would go towards each and every advisor of the princes that were still alive.

    Moving his hands like a conductor in a concert would, Dane soon sent out all of those strands of mana to their respective recipients as he sipped on some more coffee. After that, he snapped his fingers, covering the surface of his body with a thinyer of water before it dissipated into mist, removing all of the dirt and grime that had umted on top of his skin. Then, he snapped his fingers yet again, changing Dane¡¯s clothes to that of what he usually wore.

    As for Vanadir, seeing that Dane was cleaning himself up, he made his way to the washroom to wash up his whole body beforeing out of it a few minutester, looking more like a prince instead of a normal person with a crown on his head. Fortunately, that short amount of time was enough for the advisors of the princes to respond to Vanadir¡¯s request. Surprisingly, all of them had agreed to the request, even Arshe, who was currently busy entertaining the envoy from the Valiharsus Kingdom.

    cing such thoughts aside for now as he knew this situation was of greater priority in the short term, Vanadir then told Dane to send out another message, asking them to have theirmunication specialists create a real-timemunicationwork between all of the princes. With that, the mage woken up by coffee soon sent out another set of mana strands, only to receive arge influx of mana as themunication specialists seemed to have already made their move.

    Seeing that themunication specialists on the sides of the princes had instantly taken attention, that meant the other princes took note of this incident as well. Although they weren¡¯t certain as to whether or not the situation might end up bing worse, to them, it was better to be safe than sorry.

    With that in mind, Vanadir then entered themunicationwork with a strand of his own energy, allowing him to hear the voices of his own brothers resounding in his mind, silently listening as they talked about what they knew about the incident regarding The Great Cmity. Eventually, someone among the princes loudly cleared their throats, prompting others to stop talking as they sensed that the prince that was about to talk had the most prestige among them. Unsurprisingly, that person was the First Prince, Zeldrion Seraph II.

    ¡°Although it was all thanks to our brother the Ninth Prince that we¡¯re all gathered here today, I¡¯ve decided out of my own ord to be the host of this meeting,¡± Zeldrion said before asking Vanadir, ¡°Though, if Vanadir has a problem with it, then I don¡¯t mind stepping down.¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t mind you being the host, Zeldrion,¡± Vanadir replied, his tone indifferent yet solemn. ¡°In fact, I think you¡¯d be the best choice, given that our topic right now is regarding a problem that might be a threat to the kingdom in the future.¡±

    Hearing those words, all of the princes had be incredibly silent, so silent that even someone softly farting would make them look at the culprit with a deathly re. After everyone had gone silent for a bit, the Third Prince Arshe decided to take the initiative in starting the topic, saying, ¡°I¡¯m sure all of us have received news regarding the person known as The Great Cmity. As most of us know, he has destroyed five viges in one night and killed around 5,000 lives in the process.¡±

    ¡°However, these next words I¡¯m about to say might shock the others, so be prepared,¡± he continued, noticing that all of them had their attention focused on him. With that, Arshe took in a deep breath before saying, ¡°ording to a piece of news I¡¯ve just recently received, The Great Cmity was able to decimate two towns early in the morning before going ahead and destroying eight towns in a row within half an hour.¡±

    In an instant, gasps could be heard resounding throughout themunicationwork, most of them shocked by what they¡¯ve heard. As for Vanadir, he remained silent. The same went for Zeldrion, who had an incredibly strong informationwork just like Arshe.

    Seeing that Arshe had brought all of them up to date on what was happening regarding The Great Cmity, Zeldrion then asked the others, ¡°With that, I want to ask the others as to what we should do as princes of the Seraph Kingdom.¡±

    ¡°Isn¡¯t the answer obvious? Let¡¯s try and kill that person calling himself The Great Cmity.¡± Surprisingly, the Seventh Prince, whose name was Fenton, was the first name to suggest this idea. But of course, that idea was instantly shot down by both Zeldrion and Arshe as Zeldrion asked Fenton, ¡°Do you know how strong the town leaders are? At their weakest, they¡¯re at the peak of Rank 4. Normally, they would be a Rank 5 ss holder.¡±

    ¡°Now, ask yourself. What rank is your ss at?¡± he continued, prompting Fenton to shut up as he realized that the idea wouldn¡¯t work in the first ce. That was because, if he continued with the idea, he would just be serving himself up to the person calling himself The Great Cmity. With that, a deafening silence overtook themunicationwork once again. However, that silence did notst for long as Vanadir was the one who started to talk instead, saying, ¡°Since all of us don¡¯t have the strength to fight against The Great Cmity, then don¡¯t you think there¡¯s only one solution we can use to solve this problem?¡±

    At first, most of the princes in the conversation were confused as to what Vanadir meant by that. But then, Zeldrion and Arshe soon realized what Vanadir meant by that, with Arshe asking Vanadir, his tone slightly doubtful, ¡°Are you sure you want to bother him? Remember that he announced the war for the throne as he wants to ascend to the Transcendent level.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s in the future, Arshe. For now, he¡¯s still the strongest person of Seraph Kingdom,¡± Vanadir said. At that instant, the others finally realized what Vanadir meant, giving him their words of agreement. Soon, Zeldrion voiced out his agreement as well, with Arshe voicing out his soon after, with a slight sigh, of course.

    With the unanimous agreement of the other princes, Vanadir then said, ¡°Alright then. It seems we have to write a letter to the strongest person of Seraph Kingdom¡­¡±

    ¡°King Zeldrion Seraph.¡±

    ¡­

    Sometimeter in the day, within the royal pce of Seraph Kingdom.

    Inside one of itsrge and prestigious halls was a man of decently tall stature, sitting on an exquisitely carved chair iid with multiple gems of great rity. On the man¡¯s head was a crown farrger than those worn by the princes. Adding on the magnanimousness, the majesty, and the calmness emanating about him, as well as the strength hidden underneath his body, one would not mistaken this man for another, as he was the current king of Seraph Kingdom, King Zeldrion Seraph.

    At the moment, one of the many attendants in the pce had appeared in front of King Zeldrion, respectfully bowing as the attendant extended both of his hands. On his hands was a parchment that had the wax seal of the royal pce. Seeing this, he grabbed the parchment as he excused the attendant, breaking off the seal before reading its contents.

    After looking at the words written on the parchment in silence, a solemn expression could be seen on the king¡¯s face as he thought about what was written. Unsurprisingly, as the princes of the kingdom had met up toe to an unanimous agreement to ask help from their father, it was no surprise that a letter with all of their signatures would soon appear in front of their father to read.

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡± Pondering as to what he should do, King Zeldrion closed his eyes for a bit before muttering, ¡°What do you think of this? Do their words hold any weight?¡±

    At first, one would think that he was just talking to himself, thinking over the possible solutions he had in his arsenal. However, a few secondster, a soft voice soon resounded throughout the room as it replied to his question, saying, ¡°ording to what I¡¯ve divined, there¡¯s a high chance that their words would be true. In fact, there¡¯s a chance that it might destroy the kingdom, if not the continent if not taken care of.¡±

    ¡°I see,¡± King Zeldrion said in response, lightly nodding his head as he now had an idea on what to do. Crumpling up the parchment he had received from his sons before burning them with a me made out of mana, he then sent out a mana strand towards a certain location in the kingdom, telling the person that would receive the message, ¡°I need you toe here as soon as possible. This is an urgent matter.¡±

    Surprisingly, the one on the other side did not care that he was talking to King Zeldrion, letting out a sigh as he replied, ¡°And here I thought I was going to devise another spell. Sigh¡­give me just one second.¡±

    Swoosh!

    Exactly one second after the person on the other side was finished talking, a spatial rift was opened beside the exquisite chair King Zeldrion sat on. Around a minuteter, the figure of a man stepped out a rift, radiating an aura of magnanimity that did not lose out to him. Unsurprisingly, King Zeldrion had a slight frown on his face as the man appeared, yet thetter did not care.

    The man sported casual clothing, though the majority of it was covered by the cape he was wearing, which had a gold trefoil at the center. His blond hair wasbed neatly, matching quite well with his steel sses and his silver gray irises. Not only that, but the man constantly exuded the feeling that he was one with knowledge and energy, which suited his current position very well.

    This man was none other than Dalton Thymesis, the one who had the greatest authority at the Arcana Tower, also known by many as the Supreme Sage.

    ¡°So, what do you need your old friend¡¯s help with?¡±

 Chapter 401: An Inescapable Downfall

    Chapter 401: An Inescapable Downfall

    As Aurus muttered out those words in front of the four that remained in the tower, they could not help but shudder in great fear as they looked at the being that had just appeared in front of them with terror. In their minds, the thought of Aurus heading to where they were did not cross their minds at all. It was as if they thought that they would be safe as long as they were inside the tower.

    Unfortunately for them, that was not the case.

    With that, all of them were frozen in their spots, with even the slightest thought of moving away from where they were being hard to do as their legs were doing all they can to lift up their weight while trembling in fear. Aurus, on the other hand, did not care as to whether or not they moved from their spots. In his mind, they would still be killed by him in the end anyway.

    As such, he did not mind spending a bit more time on this tower, sensing that not much of an impact has been made by him destroying this city as he had not seen anyone call out for help or reinforcements yet. Well, even if they did, after rediscovering the fact that he had ways to improve his strength to inane degrees or the fact that he had the ability to create decoys of himself, he was more assured of his chances of escape, though he still opted to not engage with them.

    Seeing as the being in their worst nightmares was not moving, the four eventually regained the strength to move once more as they found a bit of courage amidst the terror. Hastily, they huddled up with one another as they wondered as to what they should do now that their backs were against the wall. Unsurprisingly, the only conclusion they ended up with was the fact that they would have to go all out when fighting against Aurus.

    Realizing this, Krabel could not help but let out a sigh as he muttered, ¡°To think this would be how I would die, rather than dying with honor on the battlefield.¡±

    Though, a few secondster, his eyes gained a glint of determination and pride as he continued, ¡°Then again, I guess this is a sort of honor in itself. Whether I die in the battlefield or die stalling this catastrophe from moving any further, I have still contributed to the continent I live on.¡±

    With that, Krabel hastily circted all of his energy as the beating of his heart gradually got louder. With his heartbeat resounding throughout, Krabel looked at Aurus, who was still standing all this time, with a hint of killing intent as his heartbeat now sounded simr to cannons being fired. After that, he unbuttoned the shirt he wore as he madly dashed towards Aurus, an intangible aura surrounding him in the process.

    Whoosh!

    Bang!

    In an instant, Krabel appeared in front of Aurus before punching out with his right fist, concentrating all of his strength on it. In response, Aurus redirected all of the energy in his body towards enhancing the strength of [Imprable Shield of Nil]. Then, he punched out the same way as Krabel, wanting to nullify the effect of the attack.

    Surprisingly, rather than the attack being nullified, Aurus was instead affected by the punch Krabel sent, prompting him to take a few steps back as he felt a reverberating wave of force envelop his body for a bit. Realizing this, he could not help but take Krabel and the others a bit more seriously, wondering if they also had some sort of intangible power like Krabel under their sleeves.

    Unfortunately for Aurus, the others did indeed have something like what Krabel had done, with Joaquim muttering among them, ¡°It seems he¡¯s not holding any back just to stall for more time. Although I¡¯m proud that his Idea of Force has reached the highest level it could have, there¡¯s still no hope for his survival, given that we¡¯re facing against a cmity here.¡±

    In response to Joaquim¡¯s words, Gabri and Niks lightly nodded as they let out a light sigh filled with sadness. Being the leaders of their own respective fields, as well as the fact that they were leaders in cities, all of them had broken through the Heavenly Barrier, bing elite Rank 6 ss holders. As for Joaquim, he had gone a step further, bing a Rank 7 ss holder.

    Once a person at Rank 5 breaks through the Heavenly Barrier, they would be a Rank 6 ss holder and gain experience regarding a certain universal force that governs the world they live in. For Spiriveritae like Aurus, that universal force would be their Epiphanies. As for those at Rank 6 and above, they would only be able to take control over a small part of it, yet that small part would make or break a supreme Rank 6 ss holder. Those small parts of that universal force are called Ideas.

    For Krabel, he hadprehended the Idea of Force, given his military background. At the moment, he was using hisprehension of the Idea to its limit, even breaking through his previous limits in the process. However, rather than be happy that he was being pushed to a greater level, he instead focused on using the strength he had gained towards Aurus, sending a flurry of punches towards Aurus, imbuing all of them with the Idea of Force.

    Bang! Bang! Bang! Bang!

    As Krabel continued to punch out towards Aurus, wanting to find an opening that he could take advantage of, Aurus gradually reallocated the energy he used on [Imprable Shield of Nil] towards [Dark Universal de], gradually reducing his defense in exchange for greater strength. With that, he was gradually not being forced to step back. Instead, as time passed, the punches he sent out to nullify Krabel¡¯s attacks were forcing thetter to take steps back.

    Seeing that his attacks were being overpowered, Krabel let out a hoarse yell as he pierced his chest with his right thumb, sending a wave of force into his body that forced his body to pump out more blood. As he hastily retracted his right thumb, blood slowly started to trickle out of it as the force behind his attacks had be more aggressive. Nevertheless, the others knew that Krabel was possibly going to die soon from blood loss.

    With that, Gabri and Niks entered the fray, utilizing theprehension of their Ideas to the fullest extent as well, just like Krabel. In an instant, Gabri dashed forward as sparks of lightning covered her body, sending a karate chop that was imbued with lightning at Aurus¡¯s neck. At this moment, it was apparent that Gabri hadprehended the Idea of Lightning, or to be more exact, the Idea of Lightning Bolts.

    As for Niks, rather than face against Aurus head-on just like Krabel, he instead shot out a barrage of dark red mes out of his fingertips, acting as support fire from the rear lines. Given how he was the greatest cksmith that lived in Nachthexen City, it did not take too long for one to figure out that Niks hadprehended the Idea of mes¡­or the Idea of Small mes.

    Nevertheless, with Gabri and Niks supporting Krabel¡¯s frantic and aggressive attacks, they were gradually pushing Aurus back, instilling them with more and more confidence as time passed. Surprisingly, as if the heavens have heeded their calls, the Night Mage Regiment, which used to chase Aurus throughout the whole city before stopping at the tower, had finally gotten over their initial rage, regaining their mental rity as they also gave support fire from the windows.

    Fwoosh! Bang! Crackle!

    At this moment, the battle looked more like what one would see in a bullet hell game rather than in a real fight, given how there were multiple beams of dark light and multiple wisps of dark red mes heading for Aurus. However, such a sight did notst for too long.

    Swoosh!

    In less than an instant, the entire surroundings had turned eerily silent as the Night Mage Regiment that were hovering outside the windows¡­suddenly fell. To be more exact, all of their heads were decapitated as their bodies fell first. As to how it was done¡­only Aurus knew the answer to that.

    Seeing as how the Night Mage Regiment was destroyed in one move, Krabel, Gabri, and Niks stopped attacking as the fear that consumed them earlier had returned yet again. But of course, with them using up all of their strength, even going so far as to utilize the entirety of theirprehended Ideas, it wasn¡¯t too hard for them to find the will to fight once more.

    It¡¯s just that¡­Aurus did not give them a chance anymore.

    Swish! Swish! Swish!

    As three faint yet sharp sounds of something cutting against something else, all three stood still in their ces as thin lines of blood started to appear from the necks. A few secondster, their heads gradually slid off their necks as a puddle of blood started to be made around where Aurus stood. On the other hand, Aurus looked at the now dead corpses of the three with a gaze of indifference as the de he had hastily conjured disappeared off into thin air.

    After that, he looked at Joaquim, the only one alive other than Aurus in this current situation. Although Aurus was being surrounded by arge swath of Wind energy particles thanks to him killing three Rank 6 ss holders at once, the malicious and evil aura surrounding him still affected Joaquim, making him hastily make a decision as to whether he should fight against Aurus to the bitter end or just give up.

    Thud. Thud.

    Unexpectedly, Joaquim started to kneel on the floor, ignoring the blood that was trickled from the corpses of the people that used to work for him. For a brief moment, the intangible aura that stemmed from theprehension of an Idea gradually surrounded him, but in the end, he dispelled it as he let out a long sigh.

    Giving off the feeling that he had fully given up on the thought of resisting what was the inevitable, Joaquim instead looked at Aurus, who was gradually walking to where he was. On the other hand, the primal instinct controlling Aurus was confused as what the man was doing. Fortunately, it did not take too long for it to understand, prompting Aurus to ask in his hoarse and grim voice, ¡°Are you certain of your choice?¡±

    ¡°Well, what¡¯s the point of resisting something that¡¯s bound to be inevitable?¡± Joaquim answered, a wry smile seen on his face while his eyes were filled with the feeling of sadness. ¡°Out of all of those that were in Nachthexen City, I¡¯m the only one remaining. Even the support team of those mages interfering in your fight have died due to the connection they had.¡±

    ¡°I may be a Rank 7 ss holder, but in front of you, who was able to kill three Rank 6 ss holders going all out in one move, then it just seems foolish for me to harbor thoughts of fighting. Even if I escape, you¡¯ll still end up killing me, so what¡¯s the point,¡± he continued.

    After letting out a long sigh, he then looked at Aurus onest time before asking, ¡°Before you do what you do, just let me ask you this.¡±

    ¡°Why are you doing this?¡±

    Hearing such a question, Aurus went silent for a few seconds as his primal instinct seemed to ponder over the question with great interest. Although more and more reasons had appeared the more Aurus killed, he still hadn¡¯t forget the main reason as to why he started to kill in the first ce.

    Eventually, Aurus looked at Joaquim, replying with the tone of seemingly giving Joaquim the honor he deserved as he said, ¡°To be stronger.¡±

    Swish!

    Plop!

    In less than an instant, a sword with a dark streak in the middle was conjured as Aurus used it to decapitate the man. Though, rather than having an expression of regret on his face, the expression on his face instead¡­

    ¡­was contentment.

 Chapter 402: Next Moves

    Chapter 402: Next Moves

    A few days before Aurus headed out of seclusion to increase theprehension level of his Epiphany even further, multiple things were happening throughout the continent of Maerr-viki, specifically the Seraph Kingdom.

    Amidst the numerous towns under the jurisdiction of the Seraph Kingdom, there was one town that was located in a ce that was biased towards the element of Wind, its name being Verdant Breeze Town.

    Inside the town, Argentum, Felix, Eleanor, Rosalia, and Helios had just concluded their talk regarding the next n for the town. In fact, Felix and the others could not believe what they had heard Argentum say at the end of the conversation. Although they had a feeling that he would be able to do it, they were still appalled.

    A real-time informationwork that updated every minute!

    To them, an informationwork of that caliber would cost them a Rank 8 Mana Stone at the very least, which was far rarer than Rank 7 Mana Stones. At the very least, Rank 7 Mana Stones were constantly in auction every month. As for Rank 8 Mana Stones? One would already be lucky enough to see one in auction every half year or so.

    Nevertheless, Argentum assured them that he would have a way to pay it off, hastily heading out of town to head into the Origin Pantheon once more. Of course, since a short time had only passed in the outside world, the same could be said in the Origin Pantheon, just extended to about a couple of hours or so.

    Whoosh!

    Surprised that Argentum had appeared inside the Origin Pantheon yet again after leaving just a while ago, Cardis could not help but head to where Argentum was and ask, ¡°Why are you here back again so soon, Argentum?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m going to need your help once again this time around, Cardis,¡± Argentum replied as a wry smile appeared on his face. ¡°Could you take me to where Torvas is again? This time, though, don¡¯t hold back.¡±

    Sensing the urgent tone in Argentum¡¯s voice as he asked him for a favor, Cardis solemnly nodded as he tightly gripped on Argentum¡¯s hand, dashing out of the entrance pantheon like there was no tomorrow, heading back to the Origin Dens once more as they arrived in front of Torvas¡¯s house not even half an hourter.

    As they arrived at his house, Argentum did not tell Cardis to leave anymore. Instead, he even went ahead and obliged him to join him as he said, ¡°The thing I have to talk with Torvas isn¡¯t rted to what we talked anymore. Also, I might also need your help on this one.¡±

    ¡°As long as it¡¯s something I can actually do, then there¡¯s no problem,¡± Cardis replied, recalling how Argentum was able to make him win a lot of Rank 9 Mana Stones in the past. With him gaining such a staggering amount of Mana Stones in such a short time, it wasn¡¯t surprising to know that Cardis felt indebted to Argentum.

    Fortunately, after knocking on the door for a bit, Torvas opened the door, slightly surprised that Aurus hade back.

    ¡°You¡¯re back again so soon, Argentum,¡± he could not help but say. ¡°Can I help you with anything?¡±

    With a wry smile, Argentum replied, ¡°It seems I have to take you up on the offer you told me before I left.¡±

    In response, Torvas raised his eyebrows before letting out a chuckle, saying, ¡°Is that so? Then, there¡¯s no need for me to entertain you in my humble abode. Just tell me what you¡¯re using it for.¡±

    Cardis, who had no clue what the two were talking about, could not help but ask, ¡°What¡¯s this conversation about?¡±

    ¡°Oh. Torvas just told me before I left that I could ask him for financial help if I needed it, so here I am,¡± Argentum replied as he looked at Cardis. ¡°Speaking of which, I might also need your financial help in the future, though I¡¯m not certain.¡±

    ¡°So that¡¯s all, huh,¡± Cardis said in response, nodding soon after. ¡°Well, you did allow me to win a ton of Rank 9 Mana Stones back then, so I don¡¯t mind helping you out on financial stuff as well.¡±

    ¡°d to hear,¡± Argentum said in response as he lightly smiled. ¡°Though, for now, Torvas¡¯s help is more than enough.¡±

    ¡°Speaking of which, I¡¯m going to create a real-time informationwork that allows me to be updated every single minute,¡± he said soon after, redirecting his words to Torvas. In response to his statement, Torvas went silent for a bit before asking, ¡°Is there a reason as to why you¡¯re making one?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m keeping track of a certain being called The Great Cmity,¡± Argentum replied. ¡°ording to the information I have, he¡¯s on a rampage, going about destroying towns and viges.¡±

    ¡°So, you¡¯re based in the Maerr-viki Continent?¡± Cardis could not help but say. ¡°Well, I used to be from there, so I still keep myself up to date with the news there. To think that you¡¯re making an informationwork just to be updated of The Great Cmity¡¯s next moves¡­is there a reason as to why?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m the leader of a town, so I have to make sure my citizens are safe,¡± Argentum said in response, slightly surprised to hear such a reason from someone like him. Nevertheless, that reason was more than enough for Torvas to not feel any regret in helping him out, giving him a Rank 9 Mana Stone as he said, ¡°A Rank 9 Mana Stone is more than enough for you to create a real-time informationwork with your specifications. As for the remaining money from it, you don¡¯t need to pay it back. Just invest it in your town.¡±

    Hearing those words, Argentum made a promise in his mind to repay Torvas back as he thanked him not long after. After that, Argentum then asked Cardis to bring him back to the entrance pantheon as every second counted if one were to involve themselves in someone like The Great Cmity. Fortunately, Cardis had an idea of what Argentum was feeling, so he did not hesitate to show a bit of his mastery over the element of Origin as they were able to arrive back at the entrance pantheon within minutes.

    After bidding farewell once more, Argentum then reappeared near the outskirts of Verdant Breeze Town, shocking both Felix and Eleanor after finding out that Argentum now had a Rank 9 Mana Stone in his hands. Hastily contacting Rosalia and Helios to head to the town, the five then had a busy day as they quickly sold off the Rank 9 Mana Stone for a hefty sum as they decided to enhance the defensive barrier protecting the town, thinking that it would be better for it to start at Rank 5 from the get-go and then raise it from there.

    Of course, that was all because they now had a lot of money to spend.

    Naturally, the real-time informationwork was also made within that day, with over 15% of the money from the Rank 9 Mana Stone being used to make sure that the informationwork would not falter at all. And with that, the town continued on with its development ns, with the speed at which it was being done bing faster thanks to the overabundance of assets.

    However, by the time three days passed, a slight change had urred as Valstra, the secretary under Argentum, hastily headed to where Argentum was as he was notified of a real-time informationwork they had control over.

    Seeing his secretary gasp for air as if he had something urgent to say, Argentum went ahead and asked, ¡°What news have you received?¡±

    ¡°Sir Argentum,¡± Valstra replied as he caught his breath. ¡°We¡¯ve received reports that The Great Cmity has finally started making a move again.¡±

    ¡°Which part?¡±

    ¡°A city called Nachthexen.¡±

    ¡­

    On the other hand, while Argentum was being updated of his original body¡¯s next move, the higher-ups of Seraph Kingdom were managing the problem differently as the king of Seraph Kingdom and the Supreme Sage of the Arcana Tower were now talking to each other face-to-face. However, rather than take it seriously, the Supreme Sage had an expression of indifference on his face.

    ¡°So, what do you need old friend¡¯s help with?¡± Dalton asked as he looked at the still sitting King Zeldrion. In response, King Zeldrion told Dalton that he could sit down as he asked one of the attendants to bring some refreshments for Dalton to drink. After that, King Zeldrion put on a solemn expression as he told Dalton, ¡°Dalton, we have a problem on our hands that might jeopardize the whole kingdom as we know in the future.¡±

    ¡°And¡­?¡± Surprisingly, Dalton couldn¡¯t care less as to what was going on in the outside world. In fact, while he was listening to King Zeldrion start the conversation, he started conjuring another magic circle, seemingly thinking about the spell he was about to devise back in the Arcana Tower. ¡°You¡¯re the strongest person in this kingdom, right? Can¡¯t you take care of it yourself?¡±

    ¡°Of course, I can,¡± King Zeldrion replied, subconsciously emitting an air of confidence as he said those words. ¡°Other than the Seraph Guardian, I could be considered as one of the strongest people in this kingdom.¡±

    ¡°But here¡¯s the thing, Dalton,¡± he continued. ¡°ording to what my sons just told me, the being known as The Great Cmity will gradually grow stronger with time. Recalling what I¡¯ve read from their letter,st night, that being had only destroyed five viges. Just recently, after talking with my people, I¡¯ve been notified that the being had destroyed ten towns in a row. Who knows how much that being would be a problem as more time passes.¡±

    ¡°Hoh?¡± This time, Dalton¡¯s interest was piqued. ¡°A being that¡¯s capable of bing stronger within a short span of time, even going so far as being able to eradicate that many towns in a row.¡±

    ¡°Now that¡¯s quite interesting.¡± At this point, a light smile with a hint of craziness in it appeared on his face.

    ¡°Don¡¯t you dare think of turning that being into a test subject,¡± King Zeldrion said, knowing how his old friend¡¯s mind worked. ¡°I know you¡¯re always in search of more knowledge, but the safety of the kingdom is in jeopardy here.¡±

    ¡°Yeah. I know, I know. You don¡¯t have to tell me, Zeldrion,¡± Dalton said in response as he waved his hands. A few seconds, the magic circle he had conjured slightly glowed a faint yellow light, eliciting a genuine smile to appear on his face as he said to himself, ¡°And that¡¯s another spell devised.¡±

    Satisfied that he had devised another spell, Dalton finally ced all of his attention on the matter at hand, asking, ¡°What did your diviners say about the being?¡±

    ¡°ording to one of them, the being¡¯s strength will be overwhelming enough to jeopardize the existence of the whole kingdom. Not only that, but one of them told me that there¡¯s a possibility of the entire continent being destroyed under the being¡¯s hands as well,¡± King Zeldrion replied, prompting Dalton to ponder in silence for a bit.

    ¡°So, with all of the information you¡¯ve given me, we have a being on our hands that¡¯s quickly getting stronger, to the point that its potential threat would be enough to jeopardize the existence of the kingdom and the continent itself,¡± Dalton murmured before asking, ¡°Do we have any idea on the being¡¯s whereabouts at the moment?¡±

    ¡°Unfortunately, no,¡± King Zeldrion said, letting out a short sigh. ¡°After destroying ten towns at once, no one had been able to track the being¡¯s traces down.¡±

    ¡°We¡¯re working off slightly outdated reports, then,¡± Dalton said in response before pondering in silence once more. After some time, he then looked at King Zeldrion and said, ¡°Although it¡¯s quite stupid to think of it this way, that being will eventually destroy cities and provinces in the future.¡±

    ¡°With that being said, there¡¯s still a way to make sure that we would be able to pinpoint his location,¡± he continued, piquing King Zeldrion¡¯s interest as he asked, ¡°And that way is¡­?¡±

    ¡°Simple.¡± Dalton grinned as if he was going to tell King Zeldrion something that would blow his mind away.

    ¡°Just destroy all of the cities and provinces before he could destroy them.¡±

    ¡°¡­¡±

    ¡°¡­¡±

    ¡°Are you actually serious, Dalton?¡±

    ¡°Well¡­why wouldn¡¯t I be?¡±

 Chapter 403: Second Target

    Chapter 403: Second Target

    Listening to Dalton¡¯s seemingly automated response, King Zeldrion could not help but press on his temples as he felt his rage rising. Although he had known Dalton for a very long time, even before he had be the king of Seraph Kingdom, he still could not help but ask the world sometimes as to why this genius mage had such a¡­unique personality.

    Eventually, King Zeldrion let out a sigh as he asked Dalton, his tone seemingly begging, ¡°Can you take this situation seriously for once, Dalton? The existence of the whole kingdom is at stake here.¡±

    ¡°And why should I do that?¡± Dalton asked in response, his expression still indifferent.

    But not for long.

    ¡°Oh¡­I don¡¯t know. If you let this problem be worse, then the Arcana Tower will be destroyed, all of the magic spells you¡¯ve devised, as well as all of the possible magic you¡¯ll be able to craft in the future, I wouldn¡¯t be surprised if it would take you a century to devise yet another spell after that,¡± King Zeldrion said, taunting Dalton to make a move. Surprisingly, his tactic worked, with the expression on Dalton undergoing a slight change. However, after a few seconds, Dalton¡¯s expression returned to that of indifference once again.

    As if King Zeldrion was going to have any of that.

    ¡°Also, if you don¡¯t help me out in nning a move to help save the kingdom, then it wouldn¡¯t be surprising for that being called The Great Cmity to destroy all of the knowledge repositories we have,¡± he continued. ¡°Think about it. Years, decades, even centuries of knowledge destroyed¡­just because you didn¡¯t help me out.¡±

    ¡°And also¡­¡± Just as King Zeldrion was about to hit thest nail on the coffin, a hint of fighting intent emanated from Dalton as a slight frown could be seen on his face. ¡°Don¡¯t you even dare say it.¡±

    ¡°Dare say what?¡± Still taunting Dalton to make a move, King Zeldrion shrugged his shoulders as he ignored what Dalton felt, continuing on with his reasons as he said, ¡°In any case, if you don¡¯t help me out in saving this kingdom from a future catastrophe, then there¡¯s a chance that your¡­what do you call it again? Tower of Sorcery? Monolith of Arcana? Well, whatever it may be¡­¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s. Bound. To. Be. Destroyed,¡± he said, emphasizing each every word. Fortunately, after King Zeldrion was finished with his reasons¡­

    Crack.

    Dalton had finally cracked, putting a small crack on the table in front of him as he gripped tightly on its edge. With an angry yet serious expression, he looked at King Zeldrion and said, ¡°You want my help? Then, I¡¯ll give you my fucking help alright.¡±

    ¡°Relocate all of the people in the provinces to the kingdom, that¡¯s the thing you should do,¡± Dalton started to exin the n he had instantly formted in a fit of rage. Nevertheless, amidst the rage, his mind was calm and cool as a cucumber. ¡°Considering the number of people that live in the provinces and the people that live in the cities, you¡¯ll be sacrificing a smaller number of people to get to the same end goal.¡±

    ¡°Of course, since you¡¯re the king, you can do at least that, right?¡± Dalton asked soon after, to which King Zeldrion nodded, waiting for Dalton to continue. ¡°With that, after that magic hating being destroys all of the cities, after realizing that there are no people in the provinces, it¡¯ll instantly head straight for this kingdom.¡±

    ¡°Naturally, I won¡¯t help you out on that shit unless that being targets my lifeblood,¡± he added. After that, he let out a long sigh, returning to his usual state. With a groan, he asked, ¡°There, you happy now, Zeldrion?¡±

    ¡°Very delighted, Dalton,¡± King Zeldrion responded with a smile on his face. ¡°You can head back now.¡±

    ¡°I better get something in exchange for this¡­¡± Dalton muttered as he opened up another rift, disappearing from the room King Zeldrion was in a few secondster. With King Zeldrion now alone once more, he then eximed, ¡°Pass down my orders. All citizens from the provinces shall head to the kingdom at once. All of them must be in this kingdom within a day or less.¡±

    ¡°Yourmand shall be duly enacted, Your Majesty,¡± a polite voice resounded throughout the room a few secondster.

    ¡°Oh, and also¡­¡±

    ¡°Give something to Dalton along the way, will you?¡±

    ¡­

    With thest inhabitant of Nachthexen City killed, Nachthexen City was now a wastnd devoid of the people that used to live in it. Then again, Aurus did not care at all as to what the settlements he destroyed looked like at the very end. To him, what counted the most was the amount of levels he gained in terms ofprehending his Epiphany.

    And surprisingly, after he checked how much hisprehension had improved, the primal instinct could not help but have the urge to set out once more, noticing that hisprehension had increased by 5 levels, now being at Level 54. Seeing that the rate of improvement was now simr to what it was when he started increasing hisprehension, the primal instinct finally came to the conclusion that if it wanted to maintain the same rate of improvement, it would need to find stronger and stronger beings to kill.

    In any case, the primal instinct still took Aurus¡¯s survival as priority, cing the thought of heading to therger settlements at the back of Aurus¡¯s mind for now as the both of them pursued for greater power that would allow them to fight back. With that, Aurus unhesitatingly redirected all of the energy he was using on his various skills a while ago back to [Zenith Nihility Dash], teleporting to a certain direction as he headed to the nearest city to Nachthexen.

    Whoosh!

    Within half an hour or so, the silhouette of a city simr in size to Nachthexen gradually entered Aurus¡¯s field of vision, taking note that the citizens within the city were also moving in the same way the citizens in Nachthexen moved. Nevertheless, that was more than enough for Aurus to inwardly let out a sigh of relief, somewhat thankful that the other cities hadn¡¯t caught wind of him returning to destroying settlements yet again.

    Landing a few kilometers away from one of the entrance gates of the nearby city, Aurus then did smaller teleports, making sure that his presence wouldn¡¯t alert the guards, which were already spread out to begin with.

    Swoosh! Swoosh!

    Just like what he did back in Nachthexen City, his idea had paid off, allowing him to enter the city without attracting much attention once more. However, unlike what he did at Nachthexen City, which was destroy a small portion of the houses one by one, he instead thought of destroying every house in the city with one fell swoop, just like what he did to the towns¡­eight towns.

    Moving to and fro throughout the city, he eventually found a way to do just that without alerting any of the people. Of course, he could just teleport himself to a point high up in the sky where no one else would see him and drop arge ball of wind on the city. But to him, that would just be boring, as well as him giving his traces away.

    And so, looking at the sign that said, ¡°Silver Hoof City Underground Sewers¡±, he made his way down into the sewage system that was connected to all of the houses in the city. Ignoring the putrid stench inside the sewers which came from all of the garbage and other disgusting stuff submerged in the murky waters, Aurus headed deeper into the city¡¯s sewage system, eventually finding himself at the center of it all.

    Redirecting all of his energy to [Dark Universal de], he then ced his hand on the top portion of the pipe nearest to him before imbuing it with the element of Wind. Gradually, this element of Wind spread throughout the entire sewage system, with Aurus then manipting every single Wind energy particle in it as he tried to make it seem like the city was experiencing an earthquake.

    And surprisingly, that¡¯s what all of the citizens thought. However, at first, they thought Aurus hade since attacks of his caliber would definitely make the ground shake. But after seeing no signs of Aurus appearing in their streets or above their cities, they immediately dismissed it as an earthquake that would eventually go away.

    But it didn¡¯t.

    Gradually, the intensity of the earthquake gradually got stronger as the houses, which were more or less made out of sturdy material, started to flex in ways that would make one think as to whether they were possible in the first ce. Nevertheless, realizing that the earthquake was just gradually bing more intense, almost all of the citizens left their houses, even the higher-ups of the city weren¡¯t exempt from this, evacuating the buildings they were in lest they wanted it to cave in on them.

    Eventually, the earthquake, which everyone thought was going to get worse, had finally stopped, prompting everyone to let out a sigh of relief as they headed back inside their respective homes. However, just as they were about to head back inside, another rumble resounded from the ground once more, but this time, it was apanied by the ground slightly bulging.

    ¡°What¡¯s happening?¡± This was the question that everyone thought to themselves. With their innate curiosity, they came closer to the parts of the ground that were bulging, only to regret it not long after as the ground¡­exploded.

    Bang!

    With an explosion filled with great fervor and energy, the entire sewage system under Silver Hoof City blew up with great intensity, turning all of the houses and buildings that were connected to it into rubble as all of the people that were on top of the bulged parts of the ground were turned into a mangled mess simr to the rubble.

    A few seconds, pieces of rock and flesh small andrge started to fall on the ground, making a great portion that had survived the event kneel on the ground and vomit out all of the contents in their stomachs from sheer disgust. To those that had not seen blood before, they were vomiting because of that. As for those that had seen blood before, they were vomiting because of the murky water that apanied the blood, flesh, rubble. In their minds, they instantly thought that they had gotten a bit of their feces into their mouth as all of that rained down on them.

    As for Aurus, who was in the sewage system all along, he could not help but lightly nod in satisfaction, seeing how infusing the entire sewage system with Wind energy particles before blowing up had obtained such a great effect. With a great swarm of Wind energy particles heading towards his way, he decided that it would be a great time to show himself to those that remained in the city, deciding to teleport to a decently high point in the city.

    Whoosh!

    A few secondster, Aurus had indeed appeared at the center of the city, hovering about ten to twenty meters above it to let everyone know what had happened. In an instant, after seeing Aurus appear in their cities, those that were vomiting instantly stopped as the fear in their minds overwhelmed them. For those that weren¡¯t vomiting, they were instead stupefied and dumbfounded to see Aurus appear in their city all of a sudden, frozen in their spots from the fear lingering in their minds.

    As for Aurus, he let out a maniacal chuckle as the primal instinct took control of what he had to say. Radiating out the killing intent in his body without restraint, he raised one of his hands before conjuring arge ball of wind. While he was conjuring the ball of wind, he looked at the survivors that were stricken with fear and told them, ¡°If I were you, I¡¯d escape.¡±

    ¡°But then again¡­¡±

    ¡°Would I allow you to?¡±

 Chapter 404: A Fatal Error

    Chapter 404: A Fatal Error

    While all of them listened to their words, it was as if they weremitted to doing the thing that was the opposite of what Aurus told them. In their minds, the thought of escaping was their greatest priority. Such was the greatest priority for people like them in front of a seemingly invincible being like Aurus.

    But of course, just like what Aurus mentioned them, he wouldn¡¯t even give them the chance to do so, instantly transforming therge ball of wind into a sword with a dark streak in the middle, shing downwards in front of him.

    Bang!

    With his strength being enhanced by the modified [Dark Universal de], almost all of the people on the street where he had directed his de towards were bisected longitudinally, allowing the people that had barely missed the de to see the innards of the people near them, prompting many of them to vomit out the contents of their stomach once again, wondering what kind of hell they were being submitted to.

    Seeing the looks and expressions of despair on the faces of the people that lived, Aurus could not help but enter a state of euphoria once more, a state that he had missed for quite some time after killing most of the people he hade across so far in a straightforward manner. Now that he was able to toy with his prey before killed them, he was going to enjoy each and every second, shing out with his de in other streets as around half of the city¡¯s poption had died from Aurus¡¯s attacks within half an hour.

    While that was happening, the higher-ups, who finally realized what was going on after seeing Aurus appear in their city, instantly thought about the ways they could stop Aurus from destroying other cities or stop him from destroying any cities altogether. With that, the leader of the city went ahead and contacted the cities that were near hers, instantly cursing out as she found out that the leader of Nachthexen City was not responding.

    Since the two cities were close, it was no surprise that the leaders of both cities were close as well. With that, the leader of Silver Hoof City more or less knew Joaquim¡¯s personality. Now that he wasn¡¯t responding to her attempts at connecting, that only meant one thing in her mind.

    Aurus had destroyed Nachthexen City before heading into her city.

    With that in mind, she hastily instructed one of the higher-ups to contact the other nearby cities regarding Aurus¡¯s current location. After that, only five of them remained in the ce they were in, her, and four higher-ups that had control over important sectors of the city.

    ¡°What n do you have in mind, sis?¡± One of the four other people asked, who was seemingly the sister of the city leader. In response, the leader went silent for a bit as she looked at another person. Looking at a battle-hardened woman that wore the usual military uniform, the leader asked her, ¡°Julia, can you tell me where the Silver Streak Brigade currently is?¡±

    Julia, the one in charge of the city¡¯s military, hastily replied, letting out a sigh of relief as she said, ¡°Fortunately, they¡¯re holding training exercises with a nearby city. Do you want me to tell them toe here as soon as possible, Syne?¡±

    Syne, which was the name of the city leader, nodded in response as she added, ¡°Tell them regarding what¡¯s currently going on in the city.¡±

    ¡°Understood.¡± As Julia nodded, she then headed to a certain corner of the ce they were in, contacting the Silver Streak Brigade that Syne mentioned.

    Syne then looked at her sister and asked, ¡°How about you, Thyria? Got any ideas to stall that thing to give the Silver Streak Brigade more time to arrive here?¡±

    In response, Thyria went silent for a bit before shrugging her shoulders, saying, ¡°Beats me, sis. I¡¯m just in charge of the city¡¯s managerial duties. I have no knack for strategy orbat whatsoever.¡±

    ¡°Just wanted more ideas, but okay.¡± Syne shrugged her shoulders in response before looking at the pair of twins that were still there with them. ¡°Vasta, Viza, how about you two? Got any ideas to stall that thing from moving anywhere else?¡±

    Vasta and Viza, the pair of twins, looked at each other for a bit in silence before Vasta replied in a slightly unique ent, ¡°Although we do have an idea, I¡¯m pretty sure neither you, Julia, nor Thyria would like it.¡±

    In response to those words, Syne went silent as her expression went grim, thinking up of a few possible ideas the twins might have. Eventually, she let out a sigh as she asked, ¡°Are you thinking of using the military as sacrifices to stall The Great Cmity in that spot?¡±

    With a light sigh, Viza responded, ¡°Unfortunately, that¡¯s the only method we¡¯ve coulde up with that would truly stall the being. ording to what we could see through our skill, the being is currently relishing in the delight of being able to bring people to utter despair.¡±

    Hearing that, Syne went silent yet again before furiously scratching her head as she said, ¡°Ah, alright! Fine. The future of the city still solely depends on the Silver Streak Brigade anyway.¡±

    In response to Syne¡¯s words, Vasta and Viza were just about to order the military to do so, but were stopped by her at the veryst minute as she told them, ¡°But! Once all of the military personnel have done their job, if the Silver Streak Brigade still hasn¡¯t done their job, you two shall be responsible for stalling that being until they get there.¡±

    ¡°We¡­¡± Not expecting such an order like that from Syne, the two looked at each other before eventually letting out a sigh, realizing that they wouldn¡¯t be able to escape from the city either way. And so, with a slightly mncholic tone, they replied, ¡°Yes.¡±

    Whoosh!

    As the twins left off to tell the military of what to do, as well as to prepare themselves for what they had to do, Syne looked at her sister before turning around to where she could hear the most mor, muttering to herself, ¡°I hope they arrive in time.¡±

    ¡­

    ¡°Please¡­spare me¡­¡± As time passed while Aurus continued to kill all of the survivors one by one, he gradually noticed that a few people were appearing on the streets, with him not knowing where they came from. Nevertheless, after seeing what they were wearing, it wasn¡¯t too hard for him to find out.

    In any case, he still continued on torturing the people, relishing every wail and beg they gave him, only to end their deaths with one swift sh to the neck. At first, the soldiers that had been told to stall Aurus, knowing of their duties, were steadfast, thinking to themselves that they wouldn¡¯t break down that easily, remembering that they were used to bloodshed.

    However, as they thought about it more, the more they thought about the innocent lives that they had killed in order for the city to get where they were, identally making themselves sumb to despair as the metallic smell of blood lingering in their surroundings. With that, after Aurus was done killing all of the inhabitants in Silver Hoof City, he then moved onto the soldiers that had broken down after recalling certain traumas. Sometimes, he even heard them beg for mercy for the people they had killed in the past.

    But of course, Aurus did not care about any of that, inflicting pain to them to snap them back to reality before ending them off with one swift sh. Although Aurus did not receive that much pleasure from killing the soldiers off one by one, he was still satisfied as all of them were Rank 5 ss holders at the very least, with some even at the peak of Rank 5. At that point, the amount of Wind energy particles was equivalent to about 5 or so inhabitants that he had killed a while ago.

    Eventually, the soldiers that had sacrificed their lives for the city had also been killed by Aurus, which made hime to the conclusion that, other than the leader and a few higher-ups alongside the leader, there was next to no person remaining in the city.

    With that in mind, he was about to conjure arge ball of windced with the power of the void to destroy this city once and for all when, all of a sudden, a pair of twins that radiated an intangible aura appeared in front of Aurus, both of them having indignant yet determined expressions on their faces.

    But fortunately for them, just as they were about to make their moves to fight against Aurus to stall for time, they faintly heard the sounds of horses galloping at great speeds, which gradually grew louder and louder. Thinking what they thought it was, the twins went ahead and put in all of their strength into the only attack they would ever do, darting forward to where Aurus was before sending out low kicks to both of Aurus¡¯s legs simultaneously.

    Swoosh!

    With a swift teleport, Aurus disappeared from his spot before reappearing once more, aiming to retaliate against the attacks the twins did to him. Unfortunately for him, the twins never gave him a chance as they split off into opposite directions as one of them told Aurus, ¡°I would suggest looking ahead if I were you.¡±

    Listening to one of the twins¡¯ words, Aurus looked ahead, only to see a group of men on top of horses that had silver coats. On their faces, a great amount of rage could be seen as all of them radiated intangible auras. After some time, these intangible aurasbined to form one dense yet fearsome intangible aura as they pointed all of their weapon towards Aurus, aiming to use the intangible aura they fused to carry the force they had umted until now.

    Realizing this, Aurus reallocated all of his energy towards [Imprable Shield of Nil], even going so far as to go beyond his recovery rate. Unfortunately for him, the oue was still something he had not expected.

    ¡°The Silver Streak Brigade has arrived!¡±

    ¡°[Silver Streak Art: Steel-Piercing Lance]!¡±

    Bang!

    With great control over their intangible auras, or to be more exact their Ideas, the force and momentum they had umted all this time had been sent into a part of their intangible aura that went flying towards Aurus. Without hesitation, Aurus punched out towards the intangible aura, aiming to nullify the attack just like what had happened before when he fought against Krabel. Then again, just like with Krabel¡¯s first attack, he was sent back. But unlike before where he was only sent a few steps back¡­

    He was sent flying.

    Crash! Crash! Crash!

    Although he had reduced the power behind the attack by quite a lot, since it was the amalgamation of multiple people¡¯s powers working at once, it still packed a punch, allowing to break through about four houses before his momentum stopped.

    As for the Silver Streak Brigade that had arrived, they could not help but gain a hint of confidence from the bout, thinking that Aurus was actually weaker than they had thought. Then again, Aurus had underestimated their power. Unbeknownst to him, the Silver Streak Brigade was made up of ss holders that were at Rank 6 at the very least. In fact, almost all of them had reached the peak of Rank 6 by now, given how their powers were merging with one another so wlessly. Though, the reason for their powers merging wlessly was not because of their cooperation, but it was due to theirprehended Ideas.

    Since all of them were part of something called the Silver Streak Brigade, all of their Ideas were rted to¡­silver, obviously. As such, the Silver Streak Brigade was renowned for their fearsome teamwork andbat power when they worked as one.

    While the Silver Streak Brigade was heading to where Aurus hadnded, wanting to take him one peg down once more, Aurus thought that his currentbat power wasn¡¯t enough to be on par against the foe he was fighting against, so he went ahead and activated another skill he had never activated after fighting against Erudis.

    ¡°[Supreme Deification].¡±

 Chapter 405: Last Ditch Effort

    Chapter 405: Last Ditch Effort

    Whoosh!

    In an instant, the malevolent aura and killing intent surrounding Aurus had been intensified by multiple degrees, as well as his overall strength. But of course, not wanting the enemies that were chasing after him to run away in fear after realizing that he had not shown his full strength yet, Aurus hastily suppressed the aura he was emanating, making it seem like he was injured from the attack they sent at him.

    Although he was feigning weakness from here on out, the attack the Silver Streak Brigade did on him did deal a small amount of damage, decreasing his vitality by a slight amount. Nevertheless, he still had his own methods of healing himself, transforming a small portion of his energy into HP. With that, he then allocated half of the energy he was infusing into [Dark Universal de] onto [Imprable Shield of Nil], increasing his level of defense to where he thought he would be able to tank their attacks.

    Eventually, as he stood up from where hended, he heard the sounds of horses galloping near him about half a minuteter, allowing him to see the Silver Streak Brigade just a while ago. Unlike before, where they had their doubts as to whether or not they would be able to inflict damage on such a strong being like Aurus, they were now exuding great levels of confidence as it seemed that the fusion of theirprehended Ideas had be more seamless than before.

    Slowly walking out of the rubble, Aurus showed himself in front of the Silver Streak Brigade once more, prompting thetter to look at the former with a slightly devilish smile as they aimed their weapons forward, transferring all of the momentum they had generated onto an intangible aura that came down from above.

    Looking at the attack that was heading straight for him, Aurus noticed that the attack was still the same strength as before, allowing him toe to the conclusion that the Silver Streak Brigade were attacking him with the same level of strength since he had been sent flying by that attack. Having no thoughts of correcting them, Aurus decided to cken his defense where he would be uninjured but would still be sent flying.

    Bang!

    And just like that, Aurus was sent flying once more, eliciting the Silver Streak Brigade to erupt into cheers as they headed to where they thought he wouldnd once more. As for Syne, Julia, and Thyria, after being notified by Vasta and Viza that the Silver Streak Brigade had arrived, they headed towards a spot that allowed them to see the whole city better. With that, they saw how the Silver Streak Brigade was sending Aurus flying with each attack they did, making Syne and the others hopeful that they would be able to stop Aurus in his tracks and be heroes of the kingdom in the process.

    As time passed, the Silver Streak Brigade continued to send Aurus flying with each and every attack, even going so far as to introduce variants into their attacks. In their minds, as long as they unleashed the same strength as the first attack they sent towards Aurus, it did not matter how it was delivered to Aurus. But of course, Aurus wasn¡¯t retaliating against their attacks since he wanted to becent of their own strengths. Only then would such a retaliation have the most impact on them.

    And so, around half an hour had passed wherein the Silver Streak Brigade acted like a badminton racket while Aurus acted like a shuttlecock. While Aurus was being sent flying throughout those thirty minutes, he took note of five figures that were watching them from afar, remembering their positions as he felt like the time for him to retaliate wasing soon. In his mind, once he surprised the Silver Streak Brigade and killed them in a few hits, he was going to head to where the five figures were watching him, recalling how two of them were about to fight him some time ago.

    At this moment, the egos of the members of the Silver Streak Brigade had be so inted that they did not even hesitate in taunting Aurus to attack them. ¡°So what if you call yourself The Great Cmity? In front of us, the Silver Streak Brigade, someone like you is reduced to nothing more than a punching bag we throw all over the city. How about you give the title of Great Cmity to us instead? Better yet, how about we call ourselves the Great Saviors?¡±

    As theyughed and chattered about, Aurus decided that now was the right time to make a move, deciding to time it when they attacked him once more. Fortunately, it did not take long for that moment to arrive as they umted their strengths once more into their intangible aura, sending it towards Aurus in the shape of a spiraling bolt.

    Since Aurus wasn¡¯t going to hold back anymore, he redirected back all of the energy onto [Dark Universal de] as he emanated his aura without restraint, making the Silver Streak Brigade shiver slightly from the intrinsic fear they held from such a level of pressure. But of course, as they were used to beating up Aurus around, they quickly calmed themselves as one of them could not help but exim, ¡°You dare fight against the Silver Streak Brigade? You¡¯ve made the wrong mistake!¡±

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    In quick session, the Silver Streak Brigade sent out two more spiraling bolts made out of the intangible aura, allowing the three bolts to fuse as the resulting bolt had entered a higher level of power. Seeing this, Aurus ignored the attack as he swiftly disappeared from his spot before returning a couple of secondster. After that, he conjured a de made out of wind before sending a dark green de light towards the member who shouted at him, cutting that member at the head.

    Fwoosh!

    With the blood of that member raining down on them, the remaining members of the Silver Streak Brigade had finallye to the realization that they were forcing Aurus to go all out. But of course, in their minds, when they forced someone to go all out, that meant that the opposing side was eventually going to run out of steam sooner orter.

    With that kind of thinking, the Silver Streak Brigade hastily adjusted how they radiated their auras, forming an intangible barrier that shielded them from any attacks Aurus might throw at them. Sensing the intangible barrier covering the Silver Streak Brigade, Aurus couldn¡¯t care less as to what kind of defensive measures they put up, deciding to increase his attack power as he conjured a w made out of one thousand des.

    ¡°[Spellsword of Ruination: Ultimate Art].¡±

    ¡°[Millennium Sword Embodiment: Nine Realms¡¯ Nether w].¡±

    Crash!

    Without even resisting for a second, the intangible barrier surrounding the Silver Streak Brigade bent under the sheer pressure of Aurus¡¯s attack as it cracked into nothingness, allowing the w to kill a quarter of their members with one blow. Wanting to get away from the w, the remaining members of the Silver Streak Brigade moved out of the area where the w hit before retaliating against Aurus with another attack made out of intangible aura.

    ¡°Annoying,¡± Aurus could not help but mutter as he shed out with his de once more, creating a dark green de light that cut off the heads of over half of their remaining members, which only left about a couple of the members of the Silver Streak Brigade left.

    At this point, it had finally dawned on them that they were on Aurus¡¯s palm the whole time. In their minds, they could not help but feel like they were humiliated, thinking about how Aurus was inwardlyughing as to how they, the Silver Streak Brigade, made a fool of themselves.

    Of course, in Aurus¡¯s mind, he was thinking of something else. Instead of thinking them as fools, he was just allowing them to do what they wanted to give himself a bit more pleasure when killing them. Now that the remaining members of the Silver Streak Brigade had gotten off the horses and begged for his mercy, it was only then did Aurus gain pleasure from what he had done, deciding to kill these remaining two by inflicting multiplecerations on their bodies before letting them bleed to death.

    As for the horses that were still alive, after sensing that they were strong in their own right, he quickly disposed of them by detonating a ball of wind he quickly conjured. With that, a great amount of Wind energy particles surrounded him once more as he headed to where the five remaining figures of the city were.

    ¡­

    ¡°The Great Cmity¡­actually killed all of them¡­?¡± As Syne watched the fight from afar, she could not believe what she was seeing. At first, she was ecstatic that their Silver Streak Brigade had an advantage over Aurus, prompting them to think that they would be able to save the whole kingdom from The Great Cmity. However, in a swift turn of events, Aurus massacred the entire Silver Streak Brigade within seconds. Now, it was certain that he was heading to where they were.

    ¡°What should we do? Should we try to escape?¡± Naturally, while Syne was pondering on what to do next, Vasta and Viza, who did not like responsibility, could not help but suggest this move. In response, Julia looked at them with a stern expression and asked them, ¡°Are you really Rank 6 ss holders?¡±

    ¡°But we don¡¯t want to die!¡± Vasta replied, to which Viza nodded in agreement. Hearing this, Thyria could not help but let out a long sigh as she muttered, ¡°I kind of wish I could teach you two a lesson right now, but now¡¯s not the right time.¡±

    ¡°Sis, what¡¯s the n?¡± she then asked, to which Syne responded with a long sigh, telling her sister and the others, ¡°What other n do we have? I don¡¯t think we can escape from his clutches even if we go all out, so the only n we have is to just fight that being until it dies or we die.¡±

    ¡°Is that so?¡± Suddenly, a hoarse voice resounded throughout where they were, causing all five of them to freeze up in fear as the appearance of a dark red being appeared in their field of vision. Unsurprisingly, it was Aurus, who had teleported to where they were after dealing with the Silver Streak Brigade.

    Just as Aurus was about to say something else, which was quite rare for him who was now controlled by the primal instinct, the five instantly grouped together as they went all out, even going so far as to sacrifice their vitalities to output power greater than what they could normally achieve.

    ¡°Vasta, Viza, I hope you cooperate with us till the very end!¡± Syne could not help but shout as white light radiated all over her body. In response, Vasta and Viza radiated red light as one of them replied, ¡°Why do you have to bring us into this mess?!¡±

    With that, the two other people among them radiated a certain light of their own as they fused them together. Soon after that, they sent this fusion of light towards Aurus as Syne shouted, ¡°[Five-colored Cataclysm Ray]!¡±

    Fwoosh!

    Just as the ray of five lights was about to hit Aurus, he nonchntly redirected all of his energy towards [Imprable Shield of Nil] before conjuring a w to swat off the beam to fire at another direction. In essence, he had done the same thing to their beam of light just like what he did to the beam of dark light the Night Mage Regiment fired at him back in the previous city.

    Seeing as how their ultimate attack had been deflected so easily, Syne could not help but kneel on the ground as she could feel her strength gradually disappearing. Not only that, but the others were also in the same state, all of them feeling like their consciousness was slipping away from them.

    But just as they were about to meet their maker, a cushion of wind appeared over their chins, holding their heads up for one more second as they noticed Auruse closer to them. Just before they finally lost their consciousness, Aurus told them something that they would never forget.

    ¡°You don¡¯t get to decide whether or not you¡¯ll die.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll be the one doing that.¡±

    Swish! Swish! Swish!

    With five quick swipes of the w made out of des, the five remaining figures of Silver Hoof City had finally lost their heads and sumbed to death, finally turning Silver Hoof City into the second city to fall under Aurus¡¯s hands.

 Chapter 406: The Final City

    Chapter 406: The Final City

    As the decapitated corpses of the five strongest figures of Silver Hoof Cityid before him, Aurus took a look at how much hisprehension over his Epiphany had improved after killing all of the inhabitants of Silver Hoof City. Fortunately, the amount of progress he had obtained from this city was simr to the previous city he had destroyed. Gaining 7 more levels from this city, his level ofprehension over the Epiphany of Tempest was now at Level 61, which meant that he was more or less two-thirds of the way to reaching the maximumprehension level for his Epiphany.

    After trying to take control over the strength that he had obtained after reaching Level 61 in hisprehension, the primal instinct in Aurus¡¯s body gauged that he would only need to destroy one more city before having enough confidence to head towards therger settlements and escape unscathed, even with strong beings fighting against him. Of course, the only settlementsrger than the cities were provinces and kingdoms, so that meant his next target after this final city were the provinces.

    With that in mind, he didn¡¯t waste any more time as he activated [Zenith Nihility Dash] to its limit, teleporting to the nearest city from Silver Hoof City.

    In the meantime, while Aurus was making his way to thest city he would destroy before trying to digest his experiences again, all of the cities near Silver Hoof City had finally received the news regarding Aurus¡¯s return, prompting all of them to n ordingly after learning from Silver Hoof City that another city, Nachthexen City, had been destroyed before Aurus headed to Silver Hoof City.

    Of course, the first thought in every city leader¡¯s minds was to evacuate all of the innocent people to therger settlements. Unfortunately, they couldn¡¯t really prepare for something like that within hours as the travel time from their cities to the provinces or the Seraph Kingdom took a few days to over a week.

    With that, the leaders were left with no choice but to make sure that none of those that had no ability to fight would be able to leave their houses. As for those cities that had underground bunkers due to how their territories were, their leaders asked them to head down to the underground bunkers and only move out if they were given the go signal.

    As for the military personnel of those cities, a meeting among the higher-ups was done in order to n how they would stall or fight against Aurus. In the end, most of them hade up with ns that would allow them to stall him for minutes, which allowed the possibility of reinforcements to arrive, but in the end, they all knew at the back of their minds that it was inevitable for them to die.

    It was unknown as to how the various cities had done it while Aurus was making his way to the next city, but a roughmunicationwork had been established between the various cities that were near Silver Hoof and Nachthexen City. Although it wouldn¡¯t allow the city leaders to talk to each other in real time, it still had the function of alerting the other cities if one city was destroyed.

    With all of that prepared, Aurus had eventually arrived a couple of kilometers away from a city, noticing how there were more guards guarding the entrance gates of the city than the previous two cities he had entered. Pondering over it for a bit, he eventually came to the conclusion that the previous city he had destroyed had alerted the other cities of his return to destroying settlements.

    Although it made him slightly angry, he knew that it was just a matter of course. cing the thoughts of getting mad at the people he had killed in the previous city behind, he decided to enter the city from another route, deciding to scale up the decently high walls of the city he had chosen, which was named Vachia City after looking at therge sign over the city¡¯s entrance.

    Making sure that none of the guards would see him, he decided to teleport over the wall before appearing in one of the various alleyways in the city. After that, he took a look at the streets to see if they were any inhabitants moving around, only to find out that none of them could be seen at all.

    Thinking about it for a bit, Aurus had arrived at two conclusions. The first conclusion he had arrived at was the thought of the city barring their citizens from leaving their houses. If that were to be the case, then he could just employ the same tactic he used in the first city he destroyed, or exploit something that covered the whole city like the sewage system in Silver Hoof City.

    As for the second conclusion, he thought that the city leaders had told the citizens to evacuate, only leaving a few people to symbolically protect the city from his destruction. To Aurus, this conclusion was the one he didn¡¯t like since that meant he had to destroy more cities, which would end up taking more time.

    With that, he went ahead and broke into one of the houses, only to find out that no person was inside it. A few secondster, he broke into another house, yet the same result had appeared. Slightly bing angry as to how the city was stopping him from improving faster, he could not help but have the urge of heading to the center of the city before killing the city¡¯s leader in front of the remaining people in the city.

    Fortunately for Aurus, while he was making way to the center of the city, he heard the sounds of people murmuring from one of the vents near the city¡¯s main road, prompting him to take a small peek into it. As for what he found after taking a peek, it was the fact that the city had a few bunkers underground.

    Inwardly letting out a sigh of relief as he thought that he wouldn¡¯t have to destroy another city to arrive at the same point, he gradually made his way to the center, only to be greeted by the sight of multiple military personnel in an orderly formation.

    At the very front of this formation was a middle-aged man in a slightly disheveled military uniform. Nevertheless, with one nce, it was apparent that the middle-aged man had multiple years of experience in the battlefield, exuding an intangible aura that dwarfed most of the intangible auras radiated by the other people.

    ¡°Listen, men!¡± he shouted. ¡°Stand and followmand! Our blood shall be shed for the homnd!¡±

    ¡°Heed our mothend¡¯s call for we shall brace for the storm!¡± the formation said in response, prompting the middle-aged man to nod as he continued, ¡°Vachia City shall never give in, for there is no surrender! ¡°

    ¡°We shall force The Great Cmity to retreat and into defeat,¡± the formation said, which made the middle-aged man sternly nod, proud that he had instilled a sort of discipline into the city¡¯s military. However, his pride was short-lived as a small dagger made out of wind made its way through the formation, piercing through his forehead.

    Puchi!

    As blood started to trickle from his forehead, the middle-aged man used every ounce of consciousness he had left in him to find out the culprit for his murder. Soon, he noticed the silhouette of a dark red being far behind the formation in front of him, prompting to point out with all his remaining strength as he shouted with all his might, ¡°Enemy¡­attack¡­!¡±

    Thud.

    With the middle-aged man lying lifeless on the podium he was standing on, the remaining people that were in formation hastily turned around, recalling theirmander¡¯sst words, only to be met by the appearance of Aurus. Naturally, all of them froze up for a bit after realizing that their enemy had silently sneaked up on them. However, it only took them a second to regain their lost courage as the people closest to Aurus went ahead and unleashed theirprehended Ideas, aiming to inflict damage to him.

    Well, after finding out that the previous city had leaked out his traces, Aurus did not hold back at all, thinking about how it would only take some time for strong beings to arrive where he was as reinforcements. With that, he activated [Supreme Deification] once more before allocating all of his remaining energy towards [Dark Universal de], wanting to end the useless battle as quickly as possible before he had to go in seclusion once more to digest all of his improvements.

    Since he was going out, he went ahead and conjured the maximum number of decoys he could conjure, instantly instilling a sense of fear and despair into the military that was about to fight him. Oblivious to what emotions the other side was feeling, Aurus went ahead andmanded all of the decoys to conjure ws made out of a thousand des before going ahead and using it to mow the military down like they were tall grass.

    ¡°[Thousand-man Manifestation].¡±

    ¡°[Spellswords of Ruination: Ultimate Lost Art].¡±

    ¡°[Million Sword Embodiment: Tempest w Symphony].¡±

    Swish! Swish! Swish!

    With each swipe of a w, a couple of people would be bisectedterally, quickly turning the battlefield to favor Aurus as the entire military was wiped out within a couple of minutes. Since there were still a great number of ws that hadn¡¯t been used to kill enemies, Aurus ordered his decoys to destroy all of the houses that were in the city, just in case there were still a few people in hiding, waiting to ambush him when he was off guard.

    Surprisingly, his instinct was correct as a small group of skilled assassins had been hiding inside some of the houses in the city. Unfortunately for them, they did not know how they were realized as thest thing they saw was a w cutting their bodies in half as the roof above their heads crumbled down.

    Taking about five more minutes, all of the houses in the city had been destroyed by the remaining decoys, which meant that Aurus was the only being remaining on the surface of the city. With that, he recalled the vent where he saw most of the citizens were huddling in, using it as a passageway to enter the underground bunker where the people had no choice but to die under his attacks.

    Well, Aurus decided to be kind this time around, quickly killing all of them with a ball of wind, which he allowed to detonate. If he wasn¡¯t pressed for time, thinking about the possible reinforcements that mighte to apprehend or kill him, he would have definitely enjoyed his sweet time in torturing each and every person, bringing all of them to utter despair.

    Unexpectedly, after detonating a ball of wind, Aurus was able to reveal more passages that lead to more underground bunkers. Naturally, Aurus did not hesitate in using more wind balls to killrge numbers of people at once. In fact, in one of the bunkers, the city leader, as well as the higher-ups of the city, were huddled together, fearing for their lives as they hoped for Aurus to note where they were. Well, by the time Aurus had appeared in front of them, did he spare them?

    Of course not. Why would he spare beings that would give him a ton of Wind energy particles?

    Eventually, all of the bunkers under the surface of Vachia City had been destroyed, with the power behind each of Aurus¡¯s attacks allowing the shell of the bunkers to be seen from the surface as the mangled mess of blood and flesh covered the floor and walls of said bunkers.

    After double checking that all of the inhabitants of Vachia City had been killed, he took a look at how much hisprehension level had improved, satisfied that it had improved by the same amount as the two previous cities gave him.

    Content with his current level ofprehension over the Epiphany of Tempest, he headed towards another part of continent where he wouldn¡¯t be disturbed. With the goal of digesting all of his experiences and limating to his newfound strength, it wouldn¡¯t be until one and a half weekster did hee out of seclusion once more.

 Chapter 407: Meeting Up Again

    Chapter 407: Meeting Up Again

    Seraph Kingdom, within Verdant Breeze Town.

    A day has passed since Argentum obtained news from the real-time informationwork he and the others had created, telling him that Aurus, also known by others as The Great Cmity, has made a move on a city called Nachthexen. At the moment, he was currently helping Delmann and Valstra out in the main three development ns they had for the town. Compared to before, the state of the town right now could be considered a far cry from how it was.

    Thinking that it would allow resources to be moved faster, the streets of the town had been repaved with better material, allowing the roads to handle more wear and tear. Not only that, but the streetlights that barely lit up the town while at night had been reced with streetlights that put out more brightness, and on top of that, used less money to operate. Overall, the citizens of the town thought it was a worthy investment.

    As for the town¡¯s defenses, the barrier that Felix and the mages bargained over had finally been erected around the town, allowing it to block the attacks of a Rank 5 ss holder without a problem. Initially, the barrier was only going to be able to block the attacks of a Rank 3 ss holder since they had less money, but with the donation of Torvas¡¯s Rank 9 Mana Stone, they went all out, starting the protection level at Rank 5 and enhancing it to higher ranks. Right now, it had been enhanced to the point where it could stall a Rank 6 ss holder for a couple of minutes.

    The three main development ns for the town, on the other hand, had been modified multiple times over the course of Argentum bing the leader of the town as they made sure that the final states of the ns would allow them to amodate at least thrice the amount of people that were currently in town. Nevertheless, almost all of the people in town had basic ess to the parts of the development ns that were built. People had more or less constant ess to water right from thefort of their home, their town was producing around half of the food they needed, reducing the need for imported food, andstly, the houses people lived in had been more or less renovated to take on a slightly modern style, allowing people to look at their town with a breath of fresh air.

    Other than the Tempest Regiment, which was still in the process of being trained and polished, the school, wherein Felix and the others were still finding people that were willing to teach there, and the n to make the town focused on cksmithing, wherein people were still finding more varieties of ore veins, Verdant Breeze Town was proceeding smoothly with its various ns.

    While talking about what part of the town they should focus on next, a person Argentum appointed to manage the real-time informationwork instead of Valstra hastily headed to where he was, his expression incredibly urgent. Seeing the urgent expression on the man¡¯s face, Argentum excused himself from the two beforehand as he asked the man, ¡°What news have you received?¡±

    The man, who was slightly surprised to see their leader appear in front of him all of a sudden, could not help but gasp for air for a bit before responding, ¡°Sir¡­Argentum¡­we¡¯ve received¡­urgent news¡­¡±

    Eventually, the man finally caught his breath, allowing him to exin the news he had received in great detail. ¡°Although the news has only arrived now, we¡¯ve received news that after The Great Cmity had destroyed the city of Nachthexen, he also destroyed the city of Silver Hoof and Vachia, both cities also being led by Rank 7 ss holders just like Nachthexen.¡±

    ¡°How long has it been since The Great Cmity destroyed thest city?¡± Argentum asked in response, taking note that the news he might receive would probably be dyed, thinking that Aurus would make sure to not spread the news of his destruction of settlements. After going silent for a bit, the man replied, ¡°Well, you could say that it has almost been a whole day since it happened, Sir Argentum?¡±

    ¡°Do we have any idea on his whereabouts?¡± Argentum said after that, to which the man slowly shook his head. ¡°Although our team focused on finding his traces tried to search for him, since The Great Cmity has ess to a great movement skill, it¡¯s not that easy to do so. Unfortunately, we haven¡¯t found his traces even after searching the possible ces for a whole day.¡±

    ¡®Since there¡¯s no new news about him, I guess he¡¯s doing something in the meantime, just like what he did before attacking Nachthexen City,¡¯ Argentum thought to himself, though he wasn¡¯t sure if Aurus was intentionally dying his attacks between settlements to catch the inhabitants in those settlements off guard. If only he knew that Aurus was taking breaks to digest the improvements he had made from destroying those cities, then he would have probably done other moves.

    After allowing the person manning the real-time informationwork to return to his station, Argentum could not help but ponder over the man¡¯s words for a bit as he made his way back to where Delmann and Valstra were. ¡®After we¡¯ve tracked that the settlements he¡¯s aiming for gradually getrger, then it wouldn¡¯t be a surprise if his next target would be the provinces.¡¯

    ¡®Unfortunately for him, he doesn¡¯t know that the Seraph royal family has announced for all of the people in the provinces to make their way to the kingdom in preparation for him,¡¯ he continued, recalling how he had been surprised by the move the royal family did. However, it made his deductions quicker as he said to himself, ¡°That only leaves thest target as the kingdom, then.¡±

    As he thought about the final target Aurus was going to try and destroy, Argentum could not help but think about something else as an idea popped up in his head, still thinking of ways to allow Aurus to regain his sanity. With that in mind, he told Delmann and Valstra that he might be away for a day, to which the two did not care anymore as they were used to him leaving quite often by now.

    Assured that the town would still continue to improve while he was away, he disabled [False Visage of the Animate] and activated all of his movement speed boosting skills and spells to head towards the me Spirit Inheritance. While heading to the inheritance, he went ahead and circted a bit of the energy in his body to form a connection with one of the beings that signed a Spirit Contract with him, specifically Eleanor.

    ¡°Hey, Eleanor. You there?¡± he asked as he continued to trek tens of meters with one step. In response, the voice of a woman replied, asking him, ¡°Yeah. What¡¯s up?¡±

    ¡°Is Herellia still there?¡± he said in response, to which Eleanor replied, ¡°Let me check.¡±

    After a few seconds of silence, she told him, ¡°Yeah, she¡¯s still here. No, wait. You didn¡¯t even tell me that she could leave. Anyways, why are you asking whether she¡¯s here or not?¡±

    ¡°Well¡­¡± As he replied to her question, Argentum could not help but let out an awkward chuckle. ¡°I was nning on letting her move out of the inheritance.¡±

    ¡°Oh. Makes sense.¡± Surprisingly, Eleanor wasn¡¯t against the idea. ¡°After all, it has been over half a month or so since you brought her here¡­or has it already been a month? Either way, it¡¯s time for her to make use of the things she learned from me.¡±

    ¡°Alright. Talk to youter when I¡¯m there,¡± Argentum said in response to her words before cutting off the connection between them.

    ¡­

    Sometimeter, Argentum had arrived at the entrance of the me Spirit Inheritance, the same charred and dpidated building he had entered back then to be the inheritance¡¯s partial owner. Contacting Eleanor, he was then brought inside the inheritance, prompting him to ask Eleanor, ¡°So, where is she?¡±

    Swoosh!

    With the slightest movement of her fingers made out of energy, Eleanor allowed a corridor to open, revealing a red-haired girl in a red kimono at the end of the corridor. Seeing how the corridor to her room was opened, the red-haired girl could not help but look at the other hand, noticing the entity made out of gray energy heading to where she was.

    Although it had been quite a while since theyst met, she could still feel the same energy emanating from him. So, when he arrived in front of her, Herellia could not help but stand up in joy and exim, ¡°Argentum, you¡¯re finally back!¡±

    ¡°Sorry for not entertaining you all this while,¡± Argentum replied as he radiated an aura of slight guilt. In response to his words, Herellia let out a light chuckle, saying, ¡°What are you talking about? With Miss Eleanor teaching me a lot of things, there has never been a day where I was super bored!¡±

    ¡°Then again, there were days where I wished to head outside,¡± she said, letting out an awkward chuckle after that. Hearing her words, Argentum went ahead and activated [False Visage of the Animate], leaving Herellia slightly speechless. After a few seconds, she asked him, ¡°Have you ascended to the Animate level? Isn¡¯t that impossible for a Pseudo-Animate?¡±

    ¡°Unfortunately, no. This is just a skill I¡¯ve learned from one of my friends in order to allow me to mingle with other people,¡± Argentum said in response before letting out a yful giggle. ¡°In any case, don¡¯t you think it¡¯d shock Horell if he were to find out that I also turned into an Animate?¡±

    At first, Herellia couldn¡¯t help but widen her eyes in response to his words. Though, not long after, she could not help but find it amusing as well, letting out a chuckle as she said, ¡°Why wouldn¡¯t he be shocked? If I were him, I¡¯d definitely be depressed!¡±

    After talking about a few more things, Herellia and Argentum then left the room as Eleanor helped them leave the inheritance. Apanying them before they departed, Eleanor asked the two of them, ¡°Is there anything else you¡¯re missing?¡±

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡± After pondering over it for a bit, Argentum told her, ¡°Could you tell Felix to follow us to where we¡¯re going? Also, could you give Herellia some movement speed buffs? It¡¯s going to take a while for us to arrive where we want to go.¡±

    ¡°I could do thest one,¡± Eleanor replied as she snapped her fingers, covering Herellia in a fiery red light that made her feel like her body was lighter. After that, she turned around and told Argentum, ¡°As for the first one, you have a Spirit Contract with him. Just contact him.¡±

    Whoosh!

    With that, Eleanor headed back into the inheritance, leaving Herellia and Argentum looking at each other for a bit before thetter asked, ¡°Shall we move?¡±

    ¡°Where to?¡± Herellia asked in response, trying to get used to the feeling of being able to move faster.

    As he activated all of his movement speed boosting skills and spells, Argentum lightly smiled as Herellia¡¯s eyes could not help but light up at his response.

    ¡°The Verdant Blossom Branch Alliance.¡±

    ¡­

    Swoosh! Swoosh!

    While making their way to Tempest Cliff, which was where the Verdant Blossom Branch Alliance was located, Argentum could not help but ask Herellia, ¡°So, what kind of things did you learn while Eleanor was teaching you?¡±

    ¡°She taught me most of the basic stuff I needed to know as an Animate,¡± Herellia replied. ¡°How to eat, how to drink, how to manipte energy, how to improve my skills, as well as reading and writing. For some reason, the Animates really like to concentrate on reading and writing.¡±

    ¡°Those two are going to be indispensable for you once we head to the Animate settlements, so she¡¯s not wrong,¡± Argentum said as he nodded at her statement. ¡°Anything else?¡±

    ¡°I guess¡­things I didn¡¯t know about myself?¡± As she said this, she could not help but slightly blush, prompting Argentum to let out a cough to alleviate the awkward atmosphere gradually forming around them. Slowly changing the topic of their conversation to mundane things, they eventually arrived at the entrance of the Verdant Blossom Branch Alliance.

 Chapter 408: What They Missed

    Chapter 408: What They Missed

    As they stood in front of the Verdant Blossom Branch Alliance, Herellia and Argentum looked at each other for a bit, wondering which one of them was going to make Horelle out of the alliance. After looking at each other for a bit more in silence, Herellia couldn¡¯t help but let out a light sigh as she said, ¡°Fine, I¡¯ll do it.¡±

    Whoosh!

    In less than an instant, Herellia released the entirety of her aura, covering a great portion of the alliance. While doing so, she utilized the control she had honed while she was in the inheritance to amplify the loudness of her voice as she shouted, ¡°Horell,e out here!¡±

    Swoosh!

    Not long after Herellia was finished shouting, a great number of Inanimates at S-grade and X-grade soon arrived at the main hall before making their ways near the entrance of the alliance. Sometimeter, the familiar aura of a being soon emanated from the end of the main hall, prompting Herellia and Argentum to look at the being that wasing closer and closer to the entrance.

    Eventually, the being had revealed itself, taking on the shape of a humanoid even though it was made out of slightly dark cyan energy. When one looked at the being, they would feel like they would be absorbing more mana, which was true as he seemed to be the embodiment of mana. This being was none other than the current leader of the Verdant Blossom Branch Alliance, Horell.

    As he made his way to the very front of the crowd, Horell instantly noticed the red-haired girl and eximed in great surprise, ¡°Herellia! It¡¯s great to see you again!¡±

    Seeing that the beings that were looking for him were actually familiar, Horellmanded those that came to the main hall in order to protect it to head back to where they were previously were, allowing them to do their own things. After all of them had left the vicinity, only then did Horelle closer to Herellia. However, before he could hug her after being separate for quite a long while, another being in the area could not help let out a light cough as he said, ¡°You¡¯re missing someone else here, you know?¡±

    Hearing that, Horell could not help look at Argentum and ask, ¡°And¡­you are¡­?¡±

    ¡°You don¡¯t recognize him, Horell?¡± Herellia said in response, trying her best to hold herughter. ¡°You don¡¯t recognize Argentum?¡±

    ¡°Argentum?¡± Horell muttered the name a few times in silence, trying to recall who he was, only to exim in shock, ¡°Wait a minute! That Argentum? Aurus¡¯s clone? The one who helped you achieve Animate level? That Argentum?!¡±

    ¡°The one and only,¡± Argentum replied, lightly chuckling. On the other hand, Horell was left at a loss for words as he knew for a fact that a Pseudo-Animate couldn¡¯t be an Animate. ¡°How¡­how did you be an Animate?¡±

    Smiling, Argentum answered, ¡°I didn¡¯t.¡±

    ¡°Huh?¡± Naturally, Horell was quite confused as to what Argentum meant by that. However, not long after, the answer to his question was revealed as Argentum deactivated [False Visage of the Animate].

    Swoosh!

    Within seconds, the silhouette of a humanoid made out of gray energy appeared in the sights of both Herellia and Horell, with Horell being left at a loss for words from the sheer confusion and awe he felt while looking at Argentum. Unsurprisingly, the first question that came out of Horell¡¯s mouth was, ¡°How¡­?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ve obtained this skill from one of the friends I¡¯ve made along my journey,¡± Argentum said before continuing, ¡°If you want, I could ask that friend toe here and teach you that skill as well.¡±

    ¡°Seriously?¡± Hearing how he could be an Animate, or at least look like one, Horell could not help bute closer to Argentum and give off the feeling that he was worshiping him, to which Argentum hastily told him to stop. After attempting multiple times to stop Horell, he was eventually sessful in doing so as he changed the topic, asking the others as to what changes have happened to them while they haven¡¯t met up in a while.

    Surprisingly, Horell was the first one to talk, telling both Herellia and Argentum, ¡°Since the two of you were gone, I¡¯ve had no choice but to actually do my job as the leader appointed by Herellia. With that, I¡¯ve firmly established the influence of the Verdant Blossom Branch Alliance, with the surrounding territories and alliances around Tempest Cliff taking note of us as the strongest alliance in the area.¡±

    ¡°Well, that¡¯s no surprise,¡± Herellia said as if it was just a matter of course. ¡°With a Pseudo-Animate manning the Verdant Blossom Branch Alliance and with the other alliances only having X-grade Inanimates at the very most, it¡¯s a given that the alliance will eventually be crowned the strongest alliance someday.¡±

    ¡°After being called the strongest alliance, did anything happen to the alliance after that?¡± Argentum could not help but ask, to which Horell replied, ¡°Other than a few small skirmishes, nothing much, really. Well, there¡¯s the fact that we¡¯ve increased the number of Inanimates in our alliance to over 500.¡±

    ¡°That sounds good,¡± Herellia said in response as she nodded in satisfaction. ¡°As for the few small skirmishes, what do you mean by that?¡±

    ¡°Oh, it¡¯s nothing,¡± Horell said as he waved his hand. ¡°It¡¯s just that a few alliances announced that they were going to war against us. We just took care of them.¡±

    Hearing that, both Herellia and Argentum could not help but look at each other, seeing from their gazes that they¡¯ve unanimously agreed on one fact. In their minds, Horell has finally found his groove as the leader of the alliance.

    But surprisingly, as if wanting to turn their opinions of Horell around, he asked the two of them out of the blue, ¡°Anyways, when are the two of you going to take my ce as leader of the alliance again?!¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re already doing a good job, though,¡± Herellia replied. ¡°There¡¯s no point in changing leaders when the alliance is already developing this well.¡±

    Argentum nodded in agreement, saying, ¡°Aren¡¯t you enjoying the feeling of satisfaction when managing the alliance? Don¡¯t you feel great when one of your moves allows the alliance to prosper even further?¡±

    ¡°Well, I do, but¡­¡± Realizing that he wouldn¡¯t be able to make them ept the position of leader again, Horell finally decided to stop forcing it. Nevertheless, he didn¡¯t stop asking them to take up high positions as he told them, ¡°How about high positions? Can¡¯t you two take up any spots on that?¡±

    ¡°The alliance already has elders, no?¡± Herellia said in response, ¡°If we were to be elders, the bnce of power in the alliance will just be difficult to manage.¡±

    ¡°Plus, it¡¯s not like we¡¯re not part of the alliance anymore,¡± Argentum continued where Herellia left off. ¡°We¡¯re still members of the alliance in one way or another.¡±

    Well, the reason why Argentum could say this was because the passive skill he had obtained from the alliance back then while searching for Herellia and Horell had improved after he evolved to Magic-grade Pseudo-Animate, taking on the name [Unified Power of the Alliance (Beyond X-grade)]. Although the increment to it was nothing substantial anymore, it still gave him a small boost in power.

    Seeing that they were adamant in not managing any part of the alliance, it was only then did Horell truly give up on coercing the two, letting out a light sigh as he said in a slightly glum tone, ¡°Alright. I¡¯ll stop asking.¡±

    ¡°So, how about you, Herellia? What happened to you while we were separated from one another?¡± he asked soon after, to which Herellia scratched her cheeks as she replied, ¡°I haven¡¯t done a lot, to be honest. Under one of Argentum¡¯s friends, I learned the basic things that an Animate should know, as well as the powers I¡¯ve gained after bing an Animate.¡±

    ¡°Since I¡¯ve evolved to the Animate level, I¡¯ve lost most of the skills I¡¯ve obtained back when I was an X-grade Inanimate, only leaving with the basic ability of being able to manipte blood, as well as increase my mastery over manipting blood,¡± she continued. ¡°Nevertheless, I¡¯m certain that I could totally thrash my Inanimate self multiple times with the skills I have in my arsenal.¡±

    ¡®Well, of course,¡¯ Argentum could not help but think to himself. ¡®A single stat point for an Animate is equivalent to 100,000 points for an Inanimate.¡¯ Of course, he kept that to himself.

    With Herellia and Horell now done talking about the things they did while they were separated, it was naturally Argentum¡¯s turn to talk about what he did. And well¡­the things he talked about unsurprisingly left them speechless.

    ¡°Oh, you know. I just became the leader of a town and improved it to a level where it¡¯s actually starting to prosper,¡± Argentum said with the usual air of nonchnce he had. Naturally, Herellia and Horell found it hard toprehend. After all, when was it no surprising for one to hear that their friend had be the leader of a town?

    ¡°Uh¡­can we head to that town?¡± Herellia asked after she had snapped back to reality, to which Horell nodded in agreement. In response, Argentum shrugged his shoulders as he said, ¡°Sure, why not. It¡¯s part of the reason why I wanted to meet you two together in the first ce. Plus, it¡¯s also part of the reason why I offered Horell the chance to learn the skill I¡¯ve learned.¡±

    Reading between the lines of Argentum¡¯s words, Horell could not help but feel like there was something more important as he asked, ¡°So, what¡¯s the main reason why you two are here?¡±

    Seeing Herellia look at him with a hint of curiosity, Argentum took in a deep breath and asked them, ¡°We all know about Aurus, right?¡±

    ¡°Yeah? He¡¯s your original body and he left the alliance for no apparent reason,¡± Horell nodded as he replied. ¡°What about him?¡±

    ¡°Well, what if I told you that there was a reason why he left the alliance?¡± Argentum said in response, to which Horell remained silent, wanting him to continue. As for Herellia, it was her first time hearing this part, so she remained silent as well.

    Scratching his head, Argentum then continued, ¡°Although I don¡¯t know how or why he had turned out like that, Aurus had a change of heart and started to kill Animates and destroy their settlements. Even my town wasn¡¯t spared from him. But fortunately, it seemed like he still had a grip over his sanity while he was in my town.¡±

    Seeing the shock on their faces, Argentum continued to talk about Aurus even more. ¡°In any case, the Animates are now calling him The Great Cmity. Well, to be more exact, he called himself that when someone asked for his name. Ever since he started killing Animates and destroying settlements, he has destroyed five viges, ten towns, and three cities. Of course, he didn¡¯t spare the people that lived in those settlements.¡±

    Processing the information that was given to them, Herellia and Horell went silent for quite some time, truly caught off guard by the new information. After some time, Horell couldn¡¯t help but ask himself, ¡°Is it because of us?¡±

    ¡°He wouldn¡¯t go on a killing spree for something like that, Horell,¡± Argentum reassured him. ¡°The only possible answers for this is because of a skill he has forcing him to be that way, or some external factor taking control over him. Unfortunately, even with my connection to him, I can¡¯t check that.¡±

    ¡°So, is there anything we can do to help out?¡± Herellia asked after that. ¡°You wanted us to meet up because of that, right? You have a solution in your mind wherein us three could help him out, right?¡±

    Hearing those words, Argentum went silent for a bit, wondering how he was going to phrase his answer. Eventually, he let out a sigh as he shook his head, telling them, ¡°At first, I thought you two would be a way to help him regain his sanity. In fact, even I considered myself into this n, thinking that us three would be able to do that. But now, after mulling over it for a bit, I¡¯vee to the harsh conclusion that¡­¡±

    ¡°We just can¡¯t.¡±

 Chapter 409: Heading for the Kingdom

    Chapter 409: Heading for the Kingdom

    ¡°What do you mean by we can¡¯t?¡± Naturally, Herellia and Horell found the answer incredulous after hearing the current state Aurus was in from Argentum. They were obviously inclined to help out their friend Aurus since he was going through a problem, but instead of supporting them, Aurus¡¯s clone, Argentum, instead told them that they wouldn¡¯t be of help to Aurus at all.

    ¡°Do you think we can¡¯t fight? We¡¯ve both fought against many opponents throughout our lives, Argentum,¡± she continued while Argentum just listened in silence. ¡°If you still think we can¡¯t help Aurus out with the level of power, then at least tell us how.¡±

    Feeling that her rationality had been clouded in a fit of rage, Argentum quickly remind her, ¡°Just so you don¡¯t forget, Aurus has already destroyed five viges, ten towns, and three cities. Think about that for a second, Herellia. Settlements wherein thousands of people live in it. Sure, you might be able to fight against a whole vige if you went all out, but it would be a pyrrhic victory.¡±

    He then added, ¡°Fighting against a whole town, you would need at least 100 more copies of yourself to do that. As for fighting against a whole city¡­maybe 100,000 copies of yourself wouldn¡¯t even be enough to achieve what Aurus did¡­alone.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m not exactly saying that you two are of no help, Herellia,¡± Argentum said, letting out a light sigh. ¡°What I¡¯m saying is that, even if you two helped Aurus out, you would just die for nothing. The same goes for myself. I might be strong, but I¡¯d still die if I tried to help Aurus out.¡±

    ¡°Then¡­what should we do?¡± Realizing that her earlier thoughts were foolish, Herellia went silent for a bit, while Horell just listened to the conversation of the two. Seeing that the two of them were staring at him, waiting for his answer, Argentum could not help but let out a long sigh. ¡°For now, nothing. There¡¯s really not much we can do to help Aurus out.¡±

    ¡°But¡­¡± As the two heard this word, their interests were piqued as they waited for Argentum to continue. ¡°If my hunch is hopefully correct, then by the time Aurus makes another move, we¡¯ll probably be able to help.¡±

    ¡°And when will that next time be?¡± Horell asked, to which Argentum shrugged his shoulders. ¡°I have no clue. It could take only a few hours, it could take a few days. Heck, it could even take a few weeks or a few months for him to make another move. I can¡¯t read his thoughts anymore, so I really have no clue.¡±

    Hearing that, Herellia and Horell could not help but look down at the ground, both of them having glum expressions. Scratching his head as he wondered what he could do, Argentum eventually offered, ¡°Well, my town is always up to date on news rted to Aurus, so if you two wouldn¡¯t mind¡­would you two like to join me back at my town?¡±

    In response to his offer, both Herellia and Horell looked at each other for a bit before nodding as their way of saying yes to his offer. Being the representative of the two, Horell went ahead and said, ¡°Alright, we¡¯ll join you. I have a feeling that the chance of us being able to help would only arise when we¡¯re with you, so I¡¯ll just notify the elders to manage the alliance in my stead while I¡¯m gone.¡±

    Nodding in response, Argentum then looked at Herellia and asked, ¡°How about you?¡±

    ¡°Other than the fact that I have no more attachments unlike Horell, what else do you want me to say?¡± Herellia shrugged her shoulders as she replied. ¡°Horell has already said what I wanted to say anyway.¡±

    ¡°Okay. Let me just prepare for our departure,¡± Argentum said as he nodded in response to Herellia¡¯s words. Circting his energy towards a certain spot in his body, he then contacted a certain person toe to where he and the other two were. About a minuteter, a rift appeared a couple meters above them, revealing a gentleman wearing a blue tuxedo.

    Naturally, both Herellia and Horell were surprised to see such a man appear in front of them all of a sudden, prompting them to keep up their guards. However, by the time the man exuded his aura, the two instantly lost all will to fight against the man, quickly realizing that even if they resisted, the man would still have his way around them.

    ¡°Felix, stop scaring them, will you?¡± Noticing what the man in the blue tuxedo, Argentum could not help but let out a sigh, prompting the man tough out in response. ¡°Sorry, sorry. I just wanted to tease your friends.¡±

    Whoosh!

    Not long after, the suffocating aura pressing down on both Herellia and Horell had vanished in an instant, allowing them to breathe easy again as Argentum introduced Felix to the two and vice versa. ¡°Felix, this is Herellia and Horell. I¡¯m sure you know of Herellia already since she was being taught by Eleanor. As for Horell, he¡¯s a good friend of mine from quite some time ago.¡±

    ¡°Of course, of course. d to meet you eye-to-eye, Miss Herellia,¡± Felix said in response to Argentum¡¯s words, lightly smiling as he bowed towards Herellia. He then looked at Horell and went silent for a bit, prompting thetter to ask, ¡°Is there something wrong?¡±

    ¡°I think I know why you asked me toe here,¡± Felix said not long after to Argentum, to which thetter let out a light chuckle, saying, ¡°Was it that obvious? In any case, could you teach him the technique?¡±

    ¡°Well, he¡¯s a Pseudo-Animate that¡¯s more attuned to mana than either you or I, so he¡¯s a better fit for the technique.¡± Felix nodded as he snapped his fingers, sending a few strands of blue energy towards Horell. After Horell absorbed those strands of blue energy, he soon gained knowledge of the technique Argentum used, gradually turning him into a person with an appearance that surprised Argentum, Felix, and Eleanor.

    Although it wasn¡¯t certain whether it was because the energy he was made of was dark cyan, but the color of his hair was simr to it, taking on a shade of light blue, while his irises instead took on a shade of crystalline blue. Sporting a light blue long-sleeved t-shirt, as well as some gray pants, it made Horell give off the feeling that he was slightly sporty.

    Nevertheless, with Horell activating [False Visage of the Animate], Argentum soon activated the skill as well, returning to his human appearance as he asked Felix another favor. ¡°Felix, could you take us to Verdant Breeze Town as soon as possible?¡±

    ¡°Sure, why not?¡± With a smile, Felix went ahead and enveloped the four of them in his energy before opening up a rift. Then, they passed through it, hastily making their way back to Verdant Breeze Town.

    ¡­

    Back in the present day, in an area devoid of living beings.

    Aurus had just gotten out of his seclusion after one and a half weeks of digesting the improvements in strength he had received from killing three cities¡¯ worth of people, as well as digesting the experience he had obtained while fighting against those that were of higher rank, specifically, finding ways to work around their Ideas.

    With hisprehension over the Epiphany of Tempest now at Level 67, Aurus was confident that he would be able to plow through the next level of settlement above a city, which was a province. Although in reality, a province was just made up of a few cities banding together, there was still a person far above them in terms of authority and power, so it could be said that these multiple cities were a single entity and not at the same time.

    Of course, Aurus had no care for such things like these, only thinking of provinces as a ce where he would be able to kill more people that could give him even more Wind energy particles. With that in mind, he activated [Zenith Nihility Dash] and cranked it up to maximum as the primal instinct in his bodymanded the system to show him a map of the continent.

    After finding the province that was nearest to where he currently was, he then closed the screen brought up by the system before starting to make his way to the province with his movement skill. By the time he had arrived at the nearest province, it had only taken him around half an hour, even though the distance between him and the province was far greater than when he had to head to his first city.

    However, once he had arrived at the province, one thing ringly stood out among the cities, towns, and viges he had destroyed before. Unlike those settlements, where there would be still people more or less roaming around, in the province he had selected¡­there were none!

    Well, to be more exact, there were still a select few throughout the area, but considering that their numbers were so little and their power wasn¡¯t that high, Aurus thought it was a waste of his strength for him to destroy one province just to kill all of these people for a measly amount of experience. Nevertheless, with such a drastic change in terms of the number of people he could kill, he could not help but ponder over it, with his primal instinct quicklying to the conclusion that the people were relocated while Aurus had undergone seclusion.

    With that in mind, Aurus could not help but be slightly furious, wondering why the strong individuals of the continent were barring him from getting any stronger. In any case, he knew that there were still multiple other provinces on the continent, so he went ahead and headed to the province that was nearest to the first province he arrived in.

    Unfortunately, just like the first province, the second province was also more or less devoid of people, slightly increasing the rage Aurus felt. At this moment, he was feeling indignant for not being given the chance to max out hisprehension over the Epiphany of Tempest. But of course, he still had high hopes that the other provinces wouldn¡¯t be the same as these first two, thinking of it as just mere coincidence.

    However, as he arrived at more and more provinces, the conclusion of almost every person fleeing the provinces had appeared in his head by the time he returned to the first province, making him stand in the middle of the street for a bit in silence as he wondered what he should do next.

    At this point, there were two things he could do. The first thing was to head back to the cities and go on a massacre once more, only heading to thergest settlements once he was sure that he had be strong enough to stand up against them. As for the second thing¡­it was to instantly head straight for thergest settlements in the continent, the kingdoms.

    As Aurus continued to ponder over the two choices, he thought of the first choice as being the ideal choice in this case, allowing him to fly under the radar of strong individuals while eventually gaining the strength to fight against said strong individuals. But surprisingly, as if his primal instinct had gone against its pledge of prioritizing the survival of Aurus¡¯s body, it instead festered thoughts of being able to fight against a kingdom.

    Naturally, Aurus already had the strength to fight against a kingdom, though it doesn¡¯te without its downsides. To have the strength to fight against a whole kingdom, he would have to activate a great portion of his buffs just to be even in strengthpared to the strongest individuals. Plus, if he wanted his strength to go beyond strong individuals, he had the ability to do so, but once he used up the ability, he would be crippled for quite a long time, basically putting his back on the wall when that time came.

    But in the end, Aurus had eventuallye to a decision. Being led by the primal instinct, Aurus started to teleport to the ce that no sane person would ever head to when thinking about the chances of victory.

    His next destination¡­the Seraph Kingdom.

 Chapter 410 - Hindered

    While Aurus was making his way to the Seraph Kingdom as it was the closest kingdom to where he was approximately, in the Seraph Kingdom, something else was happening.

    After Aurus had destroyed Vachia City, King Zeldrion went ahead and asked those from the provinces to make their way to the Seraph Kingdom even faster. Although he knew that the chances of them being killed by Aurus would be increased at the kingdom since he had a feeling thetter would go all out after seeing so much people, he already made sure to prepare for this, appointing a few of his trusted men at the provinces that did not have that much strength to act as reconnaissance and tell King Zeldrion any signs of Aurus as soon as possible.

    This was the n that King Zeldrion had created after listening to Dalton''s suggestion. In fact, even those that told King Zeldrion that Aurus might be a thorn to them said that the idea was great, giving them a chance of defeating The Great Cmity once and for all.

    With that, almost all of the people from the provinces surrounding the kingdom had arrived at the kingdom''s capital itself, overworking most of the government that were rted to the management of housing. Fortunately, thanks to the sheer size of the kingdom, all of the people had been fit inside homes, with most of the people that had to share their homes with others more or less finding it reasonable as they were told of The Great Cmity''s malevolent deeds.

    Surprisingly, even the princes helped out in the endeavor of making sure that every personing from the province had a roof under their heads. Utilizing the various houses and buildings that some of them had ownership over, they allowed the people to stay temporarily, making others wonder as to what had possessed them to be so charitable, even though the war for the throne was only about 8 months away.

    If one were to ask the princes regarding this question, then all of them would say that they were doing it for the sake of the kingdom''s future and its citizens, which would surely make the popce love them. But of course, in reality, the main reason for most of them to do such a thing was because if The Great Cmity was sessful in destroying the kingdom, then there was no point in the war for the throne anymore. Sure, they could be given the title of crown prince, but what was the point if the kingdom they would have control over in the future was destroyed?

    With all of that happening, one and a half weeks had passed as King Zeldrion was at the highest point in the royal pce, watching over a great portion of the kingdom as he tapped on the railing of the balcony he was in. Although a solemn expression could be seen on his face, his consistent tapping on the railing showed that he was still anxious. Even though the ones he asked regarding Aurus said that the chances of them seeding was quite high, he still could not help but doubt those words, which was the intrinsic nature of man.

    Taking in a deep breath before letting out a long sigh, King Zeldrion was about to head back into the pce when one of the pce''s attendants hurriedly ran towards him, the person''s face showing that he had urgent news to tell him. After giving the king a respectful salute, the pce attendant then told King Zeldrion, "Your Majesty, we''ve received reports from one of our men that The Great Cmity has entered one of the provinces near the kingdom."

    "Did he leave once he found out there were no people? Or did he destroy the whole province first before leaving the province?" King Zeldrion asked in response, to which the pce attendant replied, "ording to the messages we''ve obtained from the other men that are surveying the empty provinces, after finding out that there were no people in the province, he then went to the next province, only to find out that there were none."

    The man continued, "He only truly left the provinces after visiting all of the provinces at least once. As for what happened after that, the man Your Majesty has appointed to act as reconnaissance over the first province The Great Cmity entered said that it is heading in the general direction of the Seraph Kingdom."

    Nodding in response to the pce attendant''s words, King Zeldrion then told him, "Tell the mage team to activate the detection spell at full power. Remind them that we have to know of The Great Cmity''s position at all times."

    "Understood, Your Majesty." After bowing in front of the king, the pce attendant soon left King Zeldrion alone to himself once more as he conveyed the king''s orders. As for King Zeldrion, he could not help but tap on the railing once more as he let out a light sigh, muttering to himself, "I hope this detection spell tracks The Great Cmity in time."

    As preparation for the arrival of The Great Cmity to the kingdom he ruled over, King Zeldrion asked Dalton, the Supreme Sage of the Arcana Tower, to formte a spell for him that would allow him to detect a certain entity overrge distances. In response to his request, Dalton gave him a spell that allowed one to detect a target over a radius that was decided by the grade of Mana Stones being fed to it.

    Well, to be more exact, what was given to him was not a detection spell, but instead an energy construct capable of detecting targets. With Rank 9 Mana Stones being the energy construct''s full power, it was capable of detecting any entity it wished to within a radius of 500 kilometers. Of course, a great number of Rank 9 Mana Stones from the pce''s reserves were used to achieve such a range. In any case, King Zeldrion had nothing to lose if the kingdom''s existence was at stake.

    Whoosh!

    A few secondster, a cyan light covered the whole kingdom before continuing to expand beyond it, tinting the ground with a faint cyan hue. Seeing the energy construct being activated, King Zeldrion became slightly more at ease, only for him to tense up as a strand of energy soon entered his mind, telling him, "Your Majesty! We''ve received readings of a strong enemy appearing near the 500 kilometer border of the spell!"

    "The enemy has ess to a teleportation ability! At its current speed, it''s moving at about 3 kilometers per second. It would arrive at the kingdom proper within 2 minutes at most, Your Majesty!"

    Hearing the reports enter his mind with every passing second, King Zeldrion''s expression turned solemn as he took in a deep breath, taking in every piece of information he received as he tried to formte a n wherein they''d be able to defeat or capture Aurus. After about ten seconds or so, King Zeldrion sent a strand of energy to another ce while he continued to receive reports, telling the person that would receive the strand of energy, "Commander, I want you to deploy the 1st Regiment of the Royal Seraphim Forces right now. Intercept the entity that''ll soon appear at these coordinates 100 kilometers away from the kingdom walls."

    Not even a split secondter, he received a strand of energy in response, asking him, "Your Majesty, I''ve ryed yourmand to the 1st Regiment and they''re now making their way to the coordinate you''ve given us. Shall we make a preemptive move?"

    "Wait for my next orders for now, Commander," King Zeldrion replied, sending back a strand of energy. "Even if the 1st Regiment loses against the enemy, it wouldn''t be toote for us to make the next move."

    With that, the fight to protect Seraph Kingdom from The Great Cmity has finally begun as King Zeldrion cut off the connection between him and the kingdom''smander. Letting out a light sigh, he then muttered to himself, bracing his head with a hand as he felt a headache iing, "I may be the king of the Seraph Kingdom, but strategies really aren''t my strong suit. If only Dalton was here."

    "You called?" As if responding to his words, a voice soon resounded out from behind King Zeldrion, prompting thetter to look behind before jumping from shock as he eximed, "Gah! Dalton! How did you get here?"

    "Hehehe. I''m a high-level mage. I have ess to teleportation." In response to the king''s reaction, Dalton merely smiled as he moved closer to the balcony''s railing, looking over the whole kingdom that was slightly tinted with a light cyan hue. He then looked at King Zeldrion, who was still recovering from the shock he felt and said, "Your reaction from my response is passable. I''d give it at 4 out of 5."

    "4 out of 5¡­4 out of 5, my ass!" Hearing how nonchnt Dalton was, King Zeldrion could not help but be angry, only to take in a deep breath as he already knew of his friend''s entric personality. Lightly sighing, he then asked, "So, what brought you here?"

    "Well, there''s a chance that the Arcana Tower might be destroyed because of that being, so I was thinking of helping you out in defeating it," Dalton said in response, to which King Zeldrion could not help but find it confusing. "But isn''t the Arcana Tower covered in barriers that can withstand even 1,000 Rank 9 ss holders working together?"

    "Have you ever thought about the possibility of the opponent being a Transcendent?" Dalton said, prompting King Zeldrion to shut up as he realized he had never thought about the possibility before. Although it has already been a long time for others, to King Zeldrion and Dalton, beings that had Rank 9 sses, such an event seemed like yesterday, barring the Transcendents from entering the world of Erudinia.

    "So, you''re thinking that this being is just a newly ascended Transcendent?" King Zeldrion asked, to which Dalton shrugged his shoulders in response. "There''s a possibility. In any case, you''ve done the right choice. We''ll formte our second move once we see how the Royal Seraphim Forces fare against The Great Cmity."

    Whoosh!

    With that, a mirror made out of water soon appeared in front of the two before showing an image of the regiment that King Zeldrionmanded to deploy. From afar, they could see the silhouette of a dark red being gradually getting closer to the regiment, prompting both of them to look at the scene with a hint of trepidation.

    ¡­

    Aurus, who was just making his way to the Seraph Kingdom to repeat what he had done to the various settlements he had destroyed, could not help but stop in his tracks as he noticed that a group of people numbering around 30 were standing just a few hundred meters ahead of him. Looking closer, he noticed that all of them were wearing the same uniform while all of them were covered in an intangible aura.

    Compared to the various city leaders and higher-ups that he had fought, their intangible auras were nothingpared to the people in front of him, making him feel like he wasn''t only fighting against 30 people, but instead 300. Nevertheless, he did not think of them as anything else but nuisances as he activated and allocated energy towards [Dark Universal de] and [Imprable Shield of Nil] before going ahead and activating [Supreme Deification].

    Just as Aurus was about to teleport in front of him and hit them with one of the ws made out of des, the group of people had surprisingly made the first move, dashing towards Aurus as they arranged themselves into an arrow formation. Then, extending the spears that were behind their backs all this time, they then channeled their intangible auras before shooting it out, forming a barrage of arrows.

    "In the name of the Seraph Kingdom, we, the Royal Seraphim Forces, shall strike you down!"

    "[Lesser Seraphim Art]!"

    "[Tears of the Grieving Seraphim]!"

 Chapter 411 - An Eccentric Foe

    "[Lesser Seraphim Art]!"

    "[Tears of the Grieving Seraphim]!"

    Swoosh! Swoosh! Swoosh!

    As the people that had sent out the attack were in an arrow formation, the arrows that were shot out through their intangible auras had also taken on the same formation, with a great portion of them not hitting the target at all.

    At first, Aurus thought that the group of people he was fighting against were mostly brawn but almost had no brains. But then, he soon realized that he was the one in the wrong as a small portion of the intangible arrows weren''t even meant to hit him in the first ce. Instead, some of those arrows embedded themselves into the ground, forming an encirclement around him as he felt like it was harder for him to move. Then, the remaining arrows headed up to the skies before falling down like rain, bing the reason for the skill''s name.

    Seeing as how it had be slightly difficult for him to dodge the attack, Aurus went ahead and utilized his teleportation skill, disappearing in front of the group for a split second before returning, soon noticing that only a small portion of the arrows that started to fall from the skies had collided with the ground. Realizing that the attack would more or less make him frozen to the spot, Aurus decided to fight force with force as he conjured a hundred des before imbuing it with the power of [Imprable Shield of Nil], using one de to nullify the effect of one arrow.

    Surprisingly, one de was not even enough to nullify an arrow''s effect, needing him to use two or three des to do just that. Not only that, but after those bunch of des nullify the arrow''s effect, they then dissipate into thin air, making Aurus realize that his des couldn''t handle that much force in the first ce. Then again, Aurus''s stats and skills made him seem like a ss cannon that could fire out strong attacks for hours upon hours on end. But if he was hit even at least once, there was a high chance he would be severely injured because of that.

    In fact, the skills he gained as a Spiriveritas was also skewed towards the offensive, only barely giving him enough of a boost in his defense thanks to his highprehension level over the Epiphany of the Tempest. In any case, Aurus eventually got out of the first attack unscathed as he tried to attack the group of people, imbuing the element of void into the des he conjured.

    Within seconds, he had conjured a thousand des before sending it flying towards the group of people. In response to the des, the Royal Seraphim Forces covered their whole bodies with the intangible aura, as well as their weapons as they hurriedly took on a formation that focused more on defense. After that, those at the front hastily spun their spears in order to deflect the des while one of the people at the back of the formation left the formation and headed to where Aurus was by himself.

    "Be careful!" one of the people in the formation shouted towards the man that left the formation. "We may have found out that our enemy is weak in closebat, but never be overconfident!"

    "Understood, sir!" With a shout as a response, the man eventually appeared in front of Aurus, imbuing all of his strength into the spear he held as he thrust it. Without even panicking, Aurus bent his body to where he would just barely miss the tip of the spear. Even though he was an Inanimate and he felt no pain from such attacks, even one hit from the opposing side would reduce his vitality by quite a lot.

    Not being discouraged that his attack had missed, the man quickly retracted his spear before going for a horizontal sweep, to which Aurus swiftly teleported, reappearing when the man had finished his sweep. Then, imbuing one of his fists with the element of Wind, Aurus swiftly punched out to hit the man in the face, only for the man to intercept the attack and redirect it with his free hand.

    Nevertheless, the force behind Aurus''s punch was enough to strain the man''s arm, reducing the speed and force behind his next attacks. However, they were still swift and ferocious to any normal person, with Aurus having to waste a lot of his energy to dodge a spear barrage sent out by the man.

    While the man was stalling Aurus in ce, the other people from the Royal Seraphim Forces silently made their way around the two, circling the two as they swiftly stabbed their spears into the ground, channeling their intangible auras into it. A few secondster, the ground within the circle made by the Royal Seraphim Forces took on a slight white hue as it faintly glowed.

    In response to the phenomenon happening on the ground, the man fighting Aurus seemed to have improved in all attributes. In fact, even the strain on his arm seemed to have disappeared. At this moment, Aurus looked at the people that surrounded him, sensing how the change in the ground was connected to the people, prompting him to think that a barrier of sorts that enhanced the man''s attributes and abilities was created around the two of them.

    With that, Aurus went ahead and activated [Domain of Nobility], deciding to not use one of his trump cards for now, lest he wanted his opponents to take advantage of it. A few seconds after he activated the skill, the ground, which previously took on a white hue, was now tinged with green as well as all of Aurus''s attributes had been considerably enhanced while the opposing side''s attributes were slightly weakened.

    Seeing how his opponent was having an easier time managing his attacks, the man could not help but tightly grip onto his spear before going into a frenzy, showing Aurus all of the moves he could do with the spear. Unfortunately, it was still all for naught as Aurus swapped between teleporting and moving to dodge the attacks without breaking a sweat.

    Eventually, the man decided that he had enough as the intangible aura intensified in pressure and strength. After that, the intangible aura started to spiral around the spear he held, giving off the feeling that nothing could hinder its path as the man started a round of attacks once more. As for Aurus, he increased the amount of energy he allocated towards the skills he had activated, watching his opponent intently as he was waiting for the right time to retaliate and end the battle in one go.

    Fortunately, it did not take long for the opponent to show an opening, which Aurus took advantage of as he leaned his body forward before sending a right jab on the side of his opponent''s chest. The strength in it was not enough to send his opponent flying, but it was more than enough to make the man grimace in pain for a bit. After all, he and the others were part of the Royal Seraphim Forces, where the minimum rank for their ss was Rank 8.

    Just as the man was quickly recovering from the pain he felt, he soon noticed that a few beings had appeared behind hisrades, prompting him to stand still in shock as he also noticed that all of them¡­looked like the one he was fighting against!

    Adding on the fact that all of them seemed to have spears equipped, everything soon clicked inside the man''s mind as he shouted, "Look behi¡ª!"

    Puchi!

    Unfortunately for him, just as he was about to warn hisrades, Aurus hastily conjured a spear out of thin air and pierced the man''s neck from under. As blood started to trickle off the wound that Aurus opened, the man gradually lost strength in his body before lying limp on the ground.

    Seeing how theirrade was killed with such an underhanded attack, the remaining people from the Royal Seraphim Forces could not help but look at Aurus with rage, wanting to avenge their brother that had just fallen. However, as they recalled their fallen brother''sst words, all of them instantly had the feeling that they should look behind them¡­only for them to regret it at the very end.

    Swish! Swish! Swish!

    With three copies of Aurus for each person, by the time all of them looked behind, the Aurus copies brandished their spears and put in all their strength towards piercing their necks. Some had a grievous hole in their necks, while some people had their necks lobbed off from the force behind the sneak attack. Nevertheless, the whole group eventually joined their fallen brother in silence as the surrounding ground became more and more green under the effect of Aurus''s skill.

    Deactivating [Domain of Nobility], Aurus was just about to continue teleporting in the direction of Seraph Kingdom until he noticed a man wearing shabby clothing standing just 20 to 30 meters away from him. Although one would dismiss the man as a nobody from their first nce, Aurus could not help but look at them intently, sensing a feeling of danger from the man''s bodynguage.

    Without giving the other side a chance to make a move, he instantly covered the man within the range of [Domain of Nobility] as he allocated all of his energy towards [Dark Universal de]. Then, condensing a great amount of Wind energy particles, he formed a de imbued with the power of void as he shed down on the man, wanting to bisect him.

    "[Spellsword of Ruination: Lost Art]."

    "[Penultimate de of the Chaotic Tempest: Fragarach]."

    Swoosh!

    Surprisingly, rather than feeling any resistance from the man''s body as his body was being cleaved in half, Aurus''s de instead faced no resistance at all, cleanly cutting off the man in half. However, that was all. There was no scream in pain, there was no blood gushing out. It was just Aurus and a man cut in half.

    "Quite an interesting usage of the element of Wind," the two halves of the man said as the two parts seemed to grab onto each other, mending the cut that was made in the middle of his body. While a light smile was on his face, he could not help but lightly frown as the steel sses he wore could not be salvaged. With a snap of his fingers, he created a set of steel sses over his eyes as hebed his blond hair.

    "Ehem." Clearing his throat, the man extended one of his arms towards Aurus and said, "The name''s Dalton Thymesis. Nice to meet y¡ª"

    Puchi!

    Of course, Aurus did not care about introducing himself to the man in front of him. In fact, who would even introduce themselves to the enemy they had to defeat? With that, Aurus stabbed his sword into Dalton''s chest. And just like before, nothing much happened after that¡­well, if one excluded Dalton''s emotions.

    Gradually taking on a grim expression, Dalton sternly looked at Aurus, surprisingly giving Aurus the chills. This was the first time that his body shuddered like this, so Aurus felt that the feeling foreign. However, the primal instinct controlling him said otherwise, knowing very well why his body would shudder.

    The opponent in front of him was strong.

    Realizing this, Aurus hastily turned around, wanting to teleport away from him. Naturally, after being treated rudely twice in a row, Dalton did not show his nice side anymore, cing his hand on Aurus''s shoulders before a great strength pushed down on thetter, making his feet dig into the ground for a few centimeters.

    "No manners, eh? No worries, no worries. I''ll teach you how to greet a stranger properly," Dalton said as a wave of energy washed over Aurus''s body, gradually making the primal instinct lose control over Aurus''s body. After that, Dalton sent in a few more strands of energy into Aurus''s body as he rigidly started to move. Soon after, one of his arms extended, making it seem like he was giving Dalton a handshake. In response, Dalton firmly grasped on the hand and shook it up and down with a nod of satisfaction.

    "Good, good. You''re learning well."

    "This is definitely the best way to greet strangers properly."

 Chapter 412 - Merciless Thrashing

    A few minutes ago, before Dalton and Aurus had faced off against one another in the outskirts of the Seraph Kingdom.

    Both Dalton and King Zeldrion looked at the mirror of water in front of him with surprise and anxiety in their eyes, given how the mirror was showing them a live feed of the fight between Aurus and the Royal Seraphim Forces that King Zeldrion had deployed. Currently, the Royal Seraphim Forces seemed to be at an advantage as one of their members went into a one-on-one battle with Aurus while the others set up a barrier around him, enhancing the attributes of the member that was fighting Aurus.

    Seeing the current oue of the skirmish, King Zeldrion could not help but clench his fists in anticipation, thinking that the Royal Seraphim Forces had it in the bag. With that in mind, he could not help but mutter as he continued to watch, "It seems that deploying the Royal Seraphim Forces was the right choice all this time. They''re actually able to stall him. By the looks of it, once The Great Cmity expends enough energy, they would find a chance to defeat him once and for all."

    On the other hand, Dalton looked at the fight in silence for a short while. After that, he shook his head and let out a light sigh, telling King Zeldrion, "Zeldrion, it seems you''ve underestimated the strength of the enemy by a lot."

    "Hmm?" Raising his eyebrow after hearing those words, King Zeldrion could not help but look at Dalton with a hint of doubt. "How so? Isn''t the enemy being cornered by our forces?"

    "If you look at it that way, then yes. The enemy is indeed being cornered by our forces," Dalton nodded as he replied. "However, haven''t you ever thought that the enemy allowed our side to corner him? Look at how he''s approaching the man fighting against him."

    Hearing that, King Zeldrion paid a bit more attention to Aurus and the man that was fighting him. At first nce, it seemed like Aurus had his back against the wall while the man was going all out, not giving Aurus the chance to take a breather. However, as he looked at the situation a bit more, he noticed that Aurus was not really doing anything to gain an advantage against the man. At most, he was just defending or nullifying the attacks that were sent at him.

    Seeing that, King Zeldrion scratched his head as he cleared his throat before saying in a somewhat prideful tone, "Ehem. Did I say our forces were cornering the enemy? I meant that the enemy was allowing the forces to corner him! Yeah, that''s right. Totally within the realm of my perception."

    Eventually, he let out a light sigh as he soon asked Dalton, "So, what''s the enemy nning to do? Surely he isn''t nning to wipe out the whole squad at once, right?"

    "I''m afraid your hunch might be quite close to the exact answer," Dalton replied before turning, opening up a spatial rift a few meters away from the railing of the balcony they were on. Seeing that Dalton was heading off to somewhere for a while, King Zeldrion could not help but ask him, "Hey, where are you going?"

    "I''m going to just have a quick chat with our good friend The Great Cmity out in the outskirts," Dalton lightly smiled as a hint of thebat intent he had cultivated was quickly released, reminding King Zeldrion the reason why Dalton was the Supreme Sage of the Arcana Tower. Slightly afraid that he wouldn''t know what to do next since Dalton was a better strategist than him, King Zeldrion was about to ask him to not leave, only for Dalton to tell him, "Consider this the kingdom''s second move. Also, don''t worry about the mirror disappearing in front of you. I''ve conjured it to consume the mana in the surroundings to keep its form."

    Soon, the sounds of things being thrown away could be heard as Dalton removed the usual clothing he wore before taking out a set of old clothes he hadn''t worn for a long time.

    "It''s been a while since I''ve engaged in a fight against someone else," Dalton muttered to himself. "Hopefully, the opposing side has enough strength hidden to unearth at least a good portion of my power."

    Swoosh!

    With that, Dalton then stepped into the rift, leaving King Zeldrion no choice but to look at the mirror in front of him once more, only for his mouth to be agape as Aurus had found an opening to take advantage, reversing the tides as he had conjured a barrier of his own. After that, he conjured multiple copies of himself to surrounded the members that created the barrier, eventually killing all of the members in one fell swoop.

    Shuddering as he realized that Dalton more or less predicted the oue of the fight, King Zeldrion could not help but look at the next fight that was going to happen with a hint of anxiety, continuing to tap on the balcony''s railing as he muttered, "You might be strong, Dalton¡­"

    "But you better be careful."

    ¡­

    Back at the present, Dalton continued to shake Aurus''s hands up and down as he told thetter about the basics of etiquette and how it would be a beneficial thing for him to know of. Oblivious to what Dalton was talking about, Aurus, or to be more exact the primal instinct controlling his body, was in a panic, considering that it had quickly lost control over the body it was supposed to be controlling.

    Fortunately, it seemed that the restriction could be quickly removed as the primal instinct hastily circted all of the energy inside Aurus''s body, allowing the primal instinct to control more and more until eventually¡­

    Bang!

    Releasing it from the palm of his hand, Aurus blew off Dalton''s extended hand with a burst of Wind energy, putting quite a bit of strain on thetter''s shoulders as he hastily tried to stabilize himself. On the other hand, Aurus quickly got his feet out of the ground as he distanced himself from the peculiar man.

    Seeing that Aurus had put a gap in between them, Dalton could not help but respond with a fake sad expression as he sarcasticallymented, "What poor manners. To think that the basics of etiquette I had taught you would be understood. It seems that I''ve engaged with a brute that has muscles for brains."

    In response to those words, Aurus did nothing. As an Inanimate, he did not even have a brain, only a soul that acted as a brain. Also, as the primal instinct was controlling his body, he wouldn''t even have a reaction in the first ce, making Dalton let out a light sigh as a hint of killing intent emanated from him.

    "In any case, I''ve told myself to not let you get past any further."

    Whoosh!

    In an instant, Dalton quickly disappeared from Aurus''s field of vision, prompting thetter to hastily conjure a barrier as he imbued it with the power of [Imprable Shield of Nil]. However, even that kind of preparation seemed to be for naught as Dalton soon appeared within the barrier as a yful smile appeared on his face, clenching his fist as it soon shone brightly.

    Bang!

    Imbuing his fist with a lot of mana, all of it was then sent towards Aurus''s body, forcing him to be sent flying from the sheer power behind the punch. Blowing off the surface of the fist he used to punch out, a couple of magic circles then appeared around Dalton''s legs, allowing him to catch up to the flying Aurus.

    Before Aurus could evennd, Dalton was already there waiting for him, sending out a couple hundred des of light that seemed to aim for what was normally vital spots for a human. Although it wouldn''t affect hisbat strength in any way, Aurus still opted to dodge those des as his vitality would quickly dwindle. With that, he hastily teleported to the ground before returning an attack with a myriad des.

    ng! ng! ng!

    Extending one of his palms outward, a shield made out of mana was made in front of Dalton as it nullified the force behind the des, as well as destroyed them. Looking at each other in silence for a bit, Dalton could not help but scratch his head, telling Aurus, "Well, this is kind of awkward."

    Ignoring Dalton''s words, Aurus continued to send a flurry of des towards Dalton as he formed a w behind him. Finally realizing the strength of the enemy in front of him, Aurus spared no effort in condensing a w that showed the epitome of his current strength.

    Surprisingly, Dalton only shed a small grin in response to what Aurus was doing as a calm expression could be seen on his face. By the looks of it, everything seemed to be going ording to what Dalton was expecting.

    Eventually, Aurus stopped sending des towards Dalton as he instead sent himself to him, swiping down with therge w behind his back, radiating off the aura of the void and the otherworldly aura his other ws used to have.

    "[Spellsword of Ruination: Ultimate Lost Art Fusion]."

    "[Penultimate w of Infernal Judgment]."

    "[Beelzebub''s Wrath]."

    Swoosh!

    Just as a great amount of power was heading towards Dalton''s way, Dalton instead looked at the w with a yawn as he said, "You want to attack me with this much power? Sure, it would definitely give me some grievous injuries¡­"

    "But would I allow you to?"

    Weeeengggg¡­

    In less than an instant, a domain covered the two of them, making Aurus feel like there was a lot of resistance facing the w he was attacking with. Even if he put all of his strength into it, he felt like it would only move a centimeter at most, not even close to hitting Dalton.

    As for Dalton, seeing that the opponent was focusing on its attack, he lightly smiled as he took a few steps away from the w that was going to hit him as he told Aurus, "You know, it''s kind of annoying facing against an opponent like you. Thankfully, I''ve learned a lot of magic to adapt to all sorts of fighting styles."

    "First off, how about I carry that w for you?" At the very moment Dalton said that, the connection Aurus had towards the w he sent out instantly disappeared, with Dalton imbuing one of his hands with mana as he grabbed onto the w. Then, with great speed, he covered the w with multiple magic circles, increasing its power to at least five times its original.

    With that, he then redirected the w towards Aurus before using all of his strength to swing it, facing no resistance in doing so. Seeing that the w was surely going to leave him with only a sliver of his vitality left, Aurus was about to teleport¡­until he couldn''t.

    "Oh no, you don''t." Dalton smiled. "I may like to teleport around and have fun, but having other people teleport to escape from my attacks is a big no-no. Of course, I''ve sealed your ability to teleport for now so I could help out in protecting the kingdom I live in."

    Seeing that the w was about to hit him at any moment, the primal instinct controlling Aurus''s body could not help but go through many ideas until it eventually stopped at a single one. Seemingly letting out a sigh as it thought that it was revealing one of its trump cards to the enemy, against such a versatile enemy like the one in front of him, the primal instinct knew that it had to do this at the very least to escape.

    And so, just before the w could even hit him, Aurus muttered out three words.

    "[Ruler of All]."

    Weeeengggg¡­

    Just like the domain Dalton had established, a dark green domain soon expanded out, with Aurus acting as the center. At that instant, the w instantly faced great resistance in moving any further, leaving Dalton at a loss for words as he had not expected such a move from Aurus. Leaving Dalton no chance to retaliate, Aurus quickly muttered, "You cannot fight against me."

    Whoosh!

    In that instant, all of the energy propelling the w had disappeared as Dalton felt like a great portion of his strength had been sapped away. Taking the chance, Aurus then used his teleport once more, utilizing the power of [Ruler of All] to leave the area and continue to head towards the kingdom.

    Seeing as to how Aurus was able to escape his domain, Dalton looked at his fleeting silhouette for a bit before shrugging his shoulders, dismantling the domain he had set up.

    "I guess I''ve done enough to make it seem like I''ve put in effort for the kingdom, right?" he muttered to himself before letting out a chuckle, walking for a bit as he headed back to the kingdom.

    "In any case, there''s still Zeldrion and that person behind him, so it''s not like I have to go all out either."

 Chapter 413 - Unexpected Gravitas

    While an incredibly important event that might change the future of Maerr-viki Continent was happening near Seraph Kingdom, something else was happening in the small town led by Argentum, which was being supported by Felix and the others, being strong beings in the own right.

    After Argentum asked Herellia and Horell toe apany him as they made their way back to the town he managed, the one and a half weeks of seemingly peaceful silence was not wasted by the town. First off, one of the initial development ns Argentum devised for the town rted to supplying clean water had finally beenpleted, with the n now moving onto an unexpected second phase. Surprisingly, all of them hadn''t thought about the problem of waste management and water treatment, which was definitely important in keeping up the overall health of the town.

    As for the n to create arge farm that would allow the town to be self-sufficient, almost 80% of the plot allocated for it had now been turned into arable farnd, allowing those that have chosen to volunteer in growing food to nt the crops that the townspeoplemonly ate. On the other hand, the remaining 20% was allocated for the farm animals. After all, even though it was fine for the townspeople to temporarily live off of only vegetables and fruits, they would eventually start to crave meat. Fortunately, Argentum''s thoughts were right, with the town delighted that they wouldn''t have to import meat from other areas from now on.

    Naturally, with fresh food and clean water, the final development n had gone smoothly, with all of the households undergoing a massive renovation on both their interiors and exteriors. In fact, if one entered the ce, not knowing that it was previously a town, they would think of the ce as a city that was just starting to expand.

    Nevertheless, with all of those development ns more or less taken care of, Argentum now expanded on the other ns he had formted during the time he managed the town, specifically the n to turn the town into a town focused on cksmithing. With those that were hired to find more ore veins being able to find a few more sources of iron, he was able to kickstart a small-scale production of iron weapons, hiring cksmiths from other towns toe to his town and train some of his people in the process.

    At this point, one would wonder as to what Herellia and Horell had been doing all this time? Well, since they were both leaders of the Verdant Blossom Branch Alliance, it wasn''t surprising to find out that the two of them had decided to help out in the management of the various ns that were going on. Surprisingly, Herellia helped out on the n wherein the Tempest Regiment was being formed while Horell helped out on the n wherein an academy for everyone was going to be constructed.

    With all of that said, the three of them working in tandem was able to speed up all of the town''s ns by quite a bit¡­until the fateful day arrived.

    ¡­

    At the moment, Argentum, Herellia, and Horell were talking with Delmann and Valstra on what part of the n they should focus on next, wanting to improve the foundations of the town for expansion until all of a sudden, a man urgently ran to where they were, only stopping when he arrived in front of Argentum.

    Seeing who the person was, Argentum quickly remembered that this person was the one he appointed to look at the real-time informationwork he had created with Felix and the others at all times. Looking at the expression on the person''s face, it was apparent that Aurus had done something big yet again. With that in mind, Argentum asked the man, "So, what''s the news this time?"

    "Very big news, Sir Argentum," the man replied, taking quick breaths of air with every word he spoke out. After catching his breath, he then took in a deep breath as he told Argentum, "We''ve obtained reports that The Great Cmity has been found circling the 27 provinces, only to eventually stop at the first province he had arrived before heading in the direction of the Seraph Kingdom. It is reported that The Great Cmity is aiming to destroy the entirety of the Seraph Kingdom itself."

    Hearing the man''s words, Argentum, Herellia, and Horell all wore solemn expressions on their faces as they had different reactions towards the words told by the man. Nevertheless, all of them still had the same base emotion in their minds, which was surprise and shock.

    Taking in a deep breath, Argentum then asked the man, "How long has it been since this piece of news has been ryed?"

    "Considering the distance taken for the message here, it would have taken around 5 to 10 minutes for the report to arrive here," the man responded, prompting Argentum to nod in response as he thanked the man. He then dismissed the man as he told him to head back to the real-time informationwork.

    Sensing the aura that Argentum was emanating at the moment, Delmann and Valstra looked at each other for a bit as they had a hunch that he was going to leave the town for a bit once again. Then again, at this point, they could truly handle all of the things on their own right now. After all of the things they had done so far, they had gained enough experience to be confident in what they were doing.

    With that, Delmann looked at Argentum and took the initiative as he told him, "Sir Argentum, if you''re going to leave the town once more, then by all means, go ahead. If you don''t want to tell us the reason as to why you''re going to leave the town, we don''t mind either. Just believe in our abilities to keep your ns going."

    Hearing those wordse out of Delmann''s mouth, Argentum could not help but look at the pair that had stayed by his side once he embarked on this journey of bing the leader of a town. Feeling the gazes of determination and confidence emanating from their eyes, he eventually let out a light sigh before nodding, telling them in response, "I apologize for being such a tardy leader."

    "However, I thank you."

    After saying those words, he then looked at Herellia and Horell, both of which nodded at him as the three of them soon left the town. Of course, they didn''t head straight for Seraph Kingdom. With their current strengths, it would be a miracle for them to arrive near the outskirts of the kingdom within a couple of days, taking into consideration the distance separating the two of them.

    With that, the three of them stopped at around ten kilometers away from the walls of the town, wanting to make sure that none of the citizens would see what they were going to do next. After that, Argentum circted a bit of the energy in his body as he contacted two beings at the same time. While the connection was being formed, Argentum noticed that Horell was going to deactivate [False Visage of the Animate]. Before Horell could fully deactivate it, Argentum stopped him, prompting the former to ask him why.

    In response, Argentum replied, "It''ll only take us a while to arrive at the kingdom. Plus, you''ll turn into a treasure Animates would chase after to the ends of the world if you don''t activate the skill in time."

    Ignoring Horell''s response to his words, the connection between him and the two beings was finally established. Before the two beings could ask him what was going on, Argentum had a solemn expression on his face as he told them in an urgent tone, "Come to where we are as fast as you can. I''ll fill you in once you get here."

    After that, he cut off the connection, basically ending the call. Just as Herellia and Horell were going to ask Argentum what he had done, two powerful beings had appeared from different directions, heading to where they were. One of those beings was a gentleman in a blue tuxedo, who currently had a tired expression as the rift he had created was superbly unstable. On the other hand, the other being was a beautiful woman wearing a dress made out of gray mes. From how the mes flickered, it was apparent that she had overused her mana.

    Naturally, these two beings were none other than Felix and Eleanor, the two closest inheritance owners to where Verdant Breeze Town was. Although the two of them were slightly angry as to why Argentum would ask them toe to where they were as soon as possible, their anger instantly dissipated as he told them the reason behind his call.

    "We''ve received news that Aurus is making his way to Seraph Kingdom. From the looks of it, he''s nning to destroy the whole kingdom, as well as kill all of the people that live in it."

    Hearing those words, Felix and Eleanor instantly went ahead and opened up a small rift above their hands, allowing a few precious Mana Stones to drop on it as they madly absorbed all of the mana contained in the stones dry. After that, they looked at each other and nodded as Felix asked Argentum, "From the looks of it, you want us to take you three to the Seraph Kingdom as fast as possible, right?"

    Argentum could only nod in response. Seeing Argentum''s reaction, Eleanor could not help but say, "I wonder sometimes if you''re just turning us into your transportation, but at this point, I can only ce this thought at the back of my head. We may be Pseudo-Animates, but the future of the whole continent is at stake here."

    With that, Felix and Eleanor fused their powers, allowing Felix to form a spatial rift that allowed them to traverse a long distance, thanks to the inherent strength of Eleanor''s mes while in Samsara form. Thanks to it, the five of them were able to arrive near the outskirts of the kingdom within three or so long-distance teleport, with each teleport needing both Felix and Eleanor to recover their energy for a while.

    Nevertheless, by the time they had arrived, all of them that they were right on time as the five of them could sense two sides fighting against each other, radiatingrge waves of power that could even be felt from where they were. Although Herellia and Horell couldn''t see what was happening due to the distance between them and the two sides fighting, from what they could sense through the aura, it was obvious who the being on one side was.

    "Aurus," both Herellia and Horell muttered, with Argentum utilizing his enhanced senses to the maximum as he looked from afar. From what he could see, his original body was currently fighting against a group of uniformed guards, all of them at a level that he could only look up to.

    Thinking that it was better for them to get a better view, Felix went ahead and enveloped all of them with his energy as they started to make their way to the kingdom''s walls, only stopping as they hovered a few meters on top of it, surprising some of the guards that were stationed near where they appeared. However, they did not make a move on the five as the five did not make a move on them.

    "Aurus." With a better vantage point, Argentum could now clearly see what was happening between the two sides. At first, he thought that Aurus was on the losing side as the guards had surrounded him, fixing him only to one spot. However, this soon changed as Aurus was able to turn tides in one go, killing all of the guards that previously had an advantage over him with only a couple of skills.

    Seeing how merciless Aurus was, not even sparing a thought to the guards he had killed, it was only then did he realize that the Aurus he and the others were looking at was not the Aurus they knew anymore. It was as if he was already a different being.

    However, even though he knew this, he still wanted to try and help Aurus regain his sense of rationality. But before he could even do that, Felix and Eleanor stopped him as Felix told him, "There''s nothing you can do to help out, Argentum. Even we can''t help out in this regard. At most, we can only be bystanders."

    Just as he was about to ask Felix why he couldn''t help out, Eleanor continued where Felix left off, telling Argentum, "Hisbat power is already beyond what we could handle, Argentum. At his current state, he can already fight against a Pseudo-Transcendent head-on, perhaps even a true Transcendent. The greatest strength we can muster is only at Pseudo-Transcendent level, and that''s only if we''re willing to sacrifice everything."

    "I seriously apologize, Argentum. But there''s nothing we can do at this point," she continued, a solemn yet sad expression on her face.

    Hearing those words, Argentum could not help but let out a long sigh. Back then, he was made to help Aurus out, and was able to do so. Now, even before he was going to try and help Aurus one more time, he could not even take the first step. In the end, he could only look up at the skies and mutter inwardly.

    "Please¡­if there''s anyone beyond the heavens listening to me right now¡­"

    "Please make a miracle happen."

 Chapter 414 - The Strings Of Fate

    While a massive event was happening in the world of Erudinia, specifically on the Maerr-viki Continent, an entity was watching this event unfold with great expectation¡­if not for the fact that she was currently engrossed inprehending a greater portion of thew she had control over, wanting to be more powerful for the event that about to befall her and everyone else.

    Celestial ne, inside Kurohana''s ne.

    At the moment, two women that looked exactly like each other had their eyes closed as they sat cross-legged on the pure white floor of the ce. Facing each other, strands of gray, ck, and white energy would move around the two of them from time to time as they absorbed some of it, increasing the intensity of the aura they emitted.

    One of these women exuded a level of aura that had the capability of ttening a, while the other one was exuding an aura capable of ttening a kingdom. These two women were none other than Kurohana, thetter, and Shirohana, the former.

    Whoosh!

    While the two of them were fully engrossed inprehending more things regarding the Greater Law of Reincarnation, an orb at the center of the ne shot out a strand of energy that headed towards Kurohana, prompting her to frown as she opened her eyes, seemingly regretful that she was forced to return to reality.

    Standing up after a long period ofprehension, she stretched her body as she noticed that the aura she and her clone was exuding could be said to be more refined andpressed than ever before. However, in terms of sheer power, it could be said that she and her clones fused together as one entity again and did the same attack she used back then, it wouldn''t be surprising if she could destroy 8 or 9 gxies without breaking a sweat.

    "Speaking of which, I wonder how Haihana is doing," Kurohana muttered to herself before changing her senses to that of Haihana''s. Fortunately, thanks to the suggestion Kurohana gave Shirohana while they wereprehending thews, Haihana had gained more than enough strength to venture beyond the first she stepped foot on, having traversed more than tens in total just as Kurohana had been alerted by the system.

    Nodding inwardly in satisfaction with the rate of progress she was achieving, she then focused her vision on the orb that had sent her a strand of energy, making her wonder to herself as to why the orb would alert her even though she was in the midst of herprehension. Fortunately, all of her doubts had been answered as she took a look at the image on the orb, hastily conjuring up a chair as she could not help but be surprised at how things turned right.

    "Sure, I may have be the impetus for this, but this has definitely gone beyond my expectations," she could not help but mutter before letting out a light chuckle as she stared at the being at the center of the orb. On it was a being covered from head to toe in blood, radiating an aura that seemed to be on par or perhaps beyond that of the being it was fighting against. Naturally, this being was none other than Aurus, being controlled by his primal instinct as he fought against Dalton.

    Of course, to Kurohana, it was in as day as to what the primal instinct truly was. To her, it was a type of artificial intelligence she had created with the variousws she had control over in the past when she wanted to speed things up. Compared to back then, Aurus had indeed improved in strength by leaps and bounds. In fact, to Kurohana, if she didn''t limit Aurus''s strength, it was possible for him to fight against middle-ranked to high-ranked Transcendents with ease. However, that would be detrimental for the masterwork weapon she wanted to create.

    Looking through the various things Aurus had done to get to the level of strength he currently was, she could not help but let out a sigh as she thought to herself, ''Although it''s quite regretful that I had to make him ughter so many innocent lives in order to hasten the process, I''m not certain as to when the war would break out. Perhaps it could break out soon, perhaps it could break out in the future. In any case, time waits for no one."

    "Then again, with so much innocent lives ughtered, that trait would be awakened and enhanced, which could prove beneficial for the fight against the demons," she said before taking a look at Shirohana, who was still fully engrossed inprehending the Greater Law of Reincarnation. Pondering as to whether she should head back toprehend or wait until the event finishes, she eventually decided for thetter, scratching her head as she tried to find more things to do while waiting.

    After some time, she had taken note of the presence of Aurus''s clone, even going so far as to listen in on the words he had muttered. Going silent for a bit, she then let out a light yet malevolent chuckle as she told herself, "You want a miracle to happen?"

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    With that, she sent a few strands of her energy,bined with thews she now had control over. After that, she focused the orb on Argentum for a bit, muttering to herself with a grin, "Alright, I''ll give you a miracle. However, don''teining if the miracle doesn''t go your way."

    And with all of that done, she focused the orb back on Aurus, knowing very well that having the orb focused on him would affect the end of this event.

    ¡­

    Maerr-viki Continent, Seraph Kingdom.

    With everyone oblivious as to what was going on beyond the world of Erudinia, Dalton looked at Aurus''s fleeting silhouette for a few seconds before deciding to cast a debuff on Aurus, instantly decreasing his movement speed by 50%. Making sure that Aurus was unaware of a debuff being cast on him, Dalton then created a spatial rift before passing through it as he muttered to himself, "Hopefully, that would give most of the people some time to evacuate before they get mauled by this being."

    Swoosh!

    Appearing on the other side of the rift, Dalton appeared behind King Zeldrion, who had noticed his arrival a few seconds beforehand as thetter looked at the former with a hint of suspicion. After a few seconds, King Zeldrion let out a light sigh as he asked him, "You didn''t go all out, did you?"

    "Take a guess." In response to King Zeldrion''s question, Dalton merely smiled, prompting the former to let out a deeper yet longer sigh. Deciding to ce the question at the back of his head for now, he then looked back at the mirror in front of him, allowing him to take note of Aurus''s position at all times as he asked Dalton, "So, what did you find out after fighting him?"

    "Well, there''s the fact that he could fight," Dalton replied, to which King Zeldrion immediately responded with a great amount of killing intent. Telling King Zeldrion to calm down, he then continued with his reply, albeit taking it a bit more seriously this time. "Jokes aside, it is as I suspected. At the very least, the being''s power is at Rank 9, perhaps even at the peak. Then again, I''m certain that he''s still hiding a great portion of it."

    Taking in a deep breath, he continued, "Once he goes all out, it''s not unsurprising for him to reach thebat level of a Pseudo-Transcendent. In fact, there''s even a possibility that he could fight against¡­"

    Noticing that Dalton trailed off, King Zeldrion urged him to continue his words, only for him to soon shudder at it.

    "¡­there''s a possibility that he could fight against a true Transcendent toe-to-toe," Dalton concluded. Hearing how the enemy had thebat power of a Transcendent, King Zeldrion could not help but ask him for the specifics. "By true Transcendent, what rank exactly?"

    "Definitely Rank 1 at the very least, the beginning of Rank 2 at the very most," Dalton replied, allowing King Zeldrion to let out a sigh of relief as he muttered, "There''s still a chance for us to fight back."

    "Rather than focusing on fighting back, how about you focus on your citizens for now?" Dalton could not help but say in response, prompting King Zeldrion to look at the mirror. At the moment, he could see that Aurus was only about ten to twenty kilometers away from reaching the insides of the kingdom.

    With that, he hastilymanded the kingdom''s militarymander to coordinate with all of the Royal Seraphim Forces as they made sure to evacuate all of the people along the path Aurus was taking. After obtaining confirmation from themander regarding the move a few secondster, King Zeldrion then looked at Dalton, prompting thetter to let out a sigh as he told him, "I better get some magic spells from that old fogey behind you in exchange for this."

    Snap!

    Not even a secondter, arge barrier consisting of manyyers appeared near the path where Aurus was moving, being conjured just in time for Aurus to be inside it. Naturally, Aurus decided tond a few hits against it so he could kill some people along the way to bolster his strength. Unfortunately, the barrier was too sturdy, even with him increasing his power momentarily.

    Seeing as to how Aurus was trapped in that area, King Zeldrion looked at Dalton for a bit before nodding. "Alright, I''ll tell that old man to give you a few of his spells after we''re done with this. After all, I still have get his help in order to stop this cmity."

    "As long as you abide by your promise," Dalton said in response with a light smile. "Now, go out there and show the world once more as to why you''re called the Sole Sword Emperor."

    "Pfft. Ever since I was given that title, I really hated it," King Zeldrion could not help butugh at Dalton''s words before taking on a solemn expression. "In any case, I''ll be back."

    Whoosh!

    With Dalton conjuring a spatial rift to make it easier for King Zeldrion, thetter then stepped into the spatial rift appearing on the other side of the rift a few momentster.

    ¡­

    With a barrier being conjured around him just as he had entered the kingdom proper, Aurus could not help but be slightly furious. But of course, it was the primal instinct that was furious. Nevertheless, Aurus knew very well that he would have lower and lower chances of sess if he did not kill more people to bolster his strength, which the barrier denied him of that chance.

    And so, allocating a great portion of his strength towards [Dark Universal de], Aurus conjured a w made out of a million des, sending it towards the barrier that had more or less blocked him from greater power.

    "[Spellsword of Ruination: Ultimate Lost Art]."

    "[Million Sword Embodiment]."

    "[Otherworldly Summoning: True Lucifer w]."

    Bang!

    As the w and barrier collided against one another, the barrier instantly warped and distorted into various shapes, seemingly breaking under the force behind the w Aurus sent out. However, just as it was about to shatter, an invisible force seemingly put pressure on it as the barrier gradually returned to its original form a few secondster.

    Slightly surprised that the barrier was able to maintain its shape under such an attack, Aurus could not help but remember the annoying man he fought against before he actually entered the kingdom. However, he could only think of this for just a few seconds as a spatial rift appeared near the end of the barrier as a man exuding magnanimity amidst ferociousness showed itself in front of Aurus.

    Looking at Aurus, the man said with a light smile, "Wee to the Seraph Kingdom, the so-called The Great Cmity. My name is Zeldrion Seraph, the king of Seraph Kingdom. And you¡­"

    Whoosh!

    "¡­are going to regreting here in the first ce."

 Chapter 415 - Clashing Skills

    Swoosh!

    Without any hesitation, King Zeldrion dashed forward with all his might, summoning a sword out of thin air as he aimed to cut Aurus''s neck. However, even with such a ferocious attack heading his way, Aurus did not move even an inch, causing Zeldrion to be somewhat surprised.

    But of course, that did not mean he would give the former any mercy, increasing the speed at which he shed his sword. With one clean sweep, arge cut that would normally kill a person then and there appeared on Aurus''s neck. However, that was only if his opponent was normal.

    Gurgle¡­gurgle¡­

    Just as Zeldrion thought that he had finished the headache of their kingdom then and there, he soon heard faint gurgling soundsing from Aurus''s body as therge cut around his neck was being closed up at breakneck speeds. Naturally, such a sight could not help but make Zeldrion ponder over the various skills the opposing side had.

    ''[Regeneration]¡­no. If the wounds are closing up at that level, then that could only be [Supreme Regeneration]. However, only defenders would obtain such a skill like that,'' he thought. He then took another look at Aurus from head to toe before thinking to himself, ''I guess he''s been alone for a great portion of his life so there''s a great chance he''s be a jack of all trades.''

    Seeing as Aurus was about to retaliate after recovering from the injury, Zeldrion decided to take one hit from him and n his next moves from there. Then again, he did not expect that the first retaliation Aurus would send at him was of a power level greater than what he had just shown.

    "[Supreme Deification]."

    Whoosh!

    In less than an instant, the aura surrounding Aurus had intensified as he allocated a great portion of the energy he regenerated towards [Dark Universal de]. With that, Aurus gave King Zeldrion an ominous feeling as he felt like he was looking at arge de made out of the void. It was as if merely looking at him would turn him into nothingness at the veryst second.

    "[Void de]? No¡­perhaps [de of Nihility]? Or perhaps he has fused multiple skills together to create a skill of his own." As Zeldrion continued to mutter the possible skills Aurus had in his arsenal, Aurus went ahead and conjured a sword simr to what Zeldrion was wielding before dashing towards him at greater speeds.

    "[Spellswords of Ruination: Lost Art]."

    "[Penultimate de of the Chaotic Tempest]."

    "[Fragarach]."

    Without even giving Zeldrion a chance to defend against the attack, he imbued the de with the element of the void before shing upward in a diagonal manner, seemingly wanting to inflict arge gash on Zeldrion''s chest.

    Fortunately, before the entirety of the power behind Aurus''s de could erupt, Zeldrion hastily wielded his sword in such a way that would deflect most of the force behind it towards the ground, making the area within a few kilometers around him rumble slightly as he could feel the bones in his forearms screaming out in pain.

    At this point, this king could not help but be astounded, yet at the same time curious of this man who had seeminglye out of nowhere, having the power of a true Transcendent at his fingertips. "Which ce did this mane from? For him to stay hidden all this time is a true testament to his conviction and determination," he muttered to himself, wanting to ask his opponent as to where he hailed from.

    But of course, Aurus wouldn''t even give him the chance to do so as he shed out once more, wanting to remove the nuisance that was the king of the Seraph Kingdom so he could bolster his strength and reach the peakprehension level possible for his Epiphany of the Tempest.

    Swoosh! Swoosh! Swoosh!

    And so, Aurus sent out a barrage of dark green de lights, all aiming towards the vital points on Zeldrion''s body. With that, thetter responded by imbuing his body with a hint of mana before dodging all of it with rtive ease. After all, before he had be the king of such arge kingdom, he had fought against many opponents at a simr or even at a greater level than him. In any case, it wasn''t surprising for him to dodge the attacks of someone like Aurus with the amount ofbat experience he had rued so far.

    After dodging all of those attacks without problems, Zeldrion now had a general idea of how scary his opponent was when he wielded the de, rating him in his mind at a threat level of a Rank 7 ss holder. However, that was only in terms of Aurus''s sword techniques. Regarding the sheer force behind each attack, he would even think he was underestimating his opponent by rating him as a Pseudo-Transcendent.

    "Hah!" Now with the opposing''s side flurry of attacks over, King Zeldrion went ahead and sent a few attacks of his own, shing and thrusting his de from various angles and positions, wanting to catch Aurus off guard. Though, with every consecutive attack, it seemed that the opposing side was bing more and more proficient in reading the pattern behind his attacks, though they seemed random to any bystander.

    Unfortunately, even after knowing that fact, Zeldrion just decided to increase the force and speed behind his attacks, imbuing himself with mana to aid in the process. With that, a breathtaking sight could be seen within the barrier as one side only did the bare minimum to deflect or avoid the attacks that was being sent out at him, while the other side did all he could to send an attack that would severely injure or even debilitate the opponent.

    Just as he thought he was gaining an edge over the opponent, Zeldrion decided to take a few steps back before sending in a blow that would surely catch Aurus off guard and inflict a grievous wound on his body. However, before the attack could evennd, Aurus conjured a decoy of himself, which soon turned into a copy of the de he was holding.

    At first, Zeldrion was confused as to why Aurus was doing that, knowing very well that the force behind his attack was no joke whatsoever. However, as the two des ovepped each other, the strength behind the de had increased, letting Aurus emanate killing intent, which he had never emitted before.

    ng!

    With one swift move, Aurus quickly deflected the attack that was heading towards him as he disappeared in front of Zeldrion''s field of vision.

    Whoosh!

    As Zeldrion wondered where Aurus would appear next, Aurus caught the former off guard as he appeared just a few meters above him, conjuring three more decoys that augmented the power of his de. With that, he put all of his weight behind the de he wielded as he shouted, "[Penta-Fragarach]!"

    "[Meteor Tempest]!"

    Bang!

    With the speed behind Aurus''s attack increasing all of a sudden, Zeldrion hastily imbued mana into his body as he gave it his all to dodge the attack that seemed to have reached a level beyond the strongest person he had fought against so far.

    Fortunately, with his reaction speed, the de was only able to cut along the skin of his upper torso, making for a grievous-looking wound, but was something that did not affect hisbat ability whatsoever. Nevertheless, it was still a gruesome sight for others as they looked at the fight from beyond the barrier.

    Seeing as his attack did not kill his opponent, Aurus went ahead and increased the ferocity behind his attacks, imbuing his de with the element of wind and void as he sent a barrage of attacks towards the injured Zeldrion. At first, Zeldrion was finding it quite easy to deflect the attacks, recalling how this situation had urred just some time ago, but now the sides have been switched.

    However, as time passed, Zeldrion noticed that the attacks Aurus employed seemed to gradually remind him more and more of a certain person. Once the attacks seemed to have reached their peak, it was only then that he realized¡­that Aurus''s attacks were emting his!

    "What?!" With great surprise, Zeldrion increased his defenses to the maximum as he finally treated his opponent as something that even the entire world of Erudinia would have to fear. Not knowing what to do next, he hastily sent a strand to a certain person as he asked in his mind, "Dalton, why didn''t you tell me he had the ability to quickly learn from other people?"

    "To be honest, even I didn''t know that," Dalton quickly replied, appearing in less than an instant just a few meters outside the barrier where Zeldrion could see him. "In fact, I haven''t seen him use the skill in our fight at all."

    "Do you know of any skill that allows one to do something like this?" Zeldrion asked, taking note of the fact that Aurus was charging up his final attack, an attack that looked simr to his final attack after the massive barrage. While Zeldrion was putting defenses on top of defenses, Dalton replied, "Even with the massive amount of knowledge in my head, I can only think of my innate skill [Hyperthymesia] that would allow one to do this. But even I would take a day at the very least to learn what you''ve done."

    "What kind of monstrous human did this continent give birth to?" Hearing that even Dalton did not know the answer to the question, this was the only thing Zeldrion could mutter out. Surprisingly, Dalton replied to this question, prompting Zeldrion to look at the former with shock in his eyes.

    "Who says you''re fighting against a human?"

    "Huh?" Naturally, Zeldrion was caught off guard by that. Coincidentally, it was at this moment that Aurus sent out his attack, crumpling all of Zeldrion''s defenses in one go. With that, Zeldrion used his trusty de to deflect the attack, albeit with a lot of effort.

    Fortunately, after that attack, it seemed that Aurus was gearing up for another hard-hitting attack as he conjured a few more decoys of himself, stacking them on top of his des. With some leeway to process the information he had obtained and work from there, Zeldrion then asked Dalton, "So, am I fighting against a Pseudo-Animate? Perhaps, one of the various inheritance holders in the continent?"

    "Nope," Dalton quickly replied.

    "Then, what¡­?" Just as Zeldrion was about to ask Dalton yet another question, it was as if everything had clicked at that very moment. The ability to heal from grievous wounds, the ability to learn his fighting style, the ability to fight those beyond his level, and the fact that he wasn''t a Pseudo-Animate only meant one thing to Zeldrion.

    "It seems you''ve found the answer to your question," Dalton could not help but say, to which Zeldrion lightly nodded. "Although he''s a part of that organization, he''s still an Inanimate. I think I now know what to do from here on out."

    "To think I would fight against someone from an organization that spans the entirety of Erudinia," he could not help but mutter. After that, he sent a strand to another being that only a select number of people in the kingdom know of. Once the connection waspleted, the person on the other side asked Zeldrion, "What made you contact me at this hour, child?"

    "Grandfathe¡ª" Recalling that he was calling him for official matters, Zeldrion quickly corrected himself as he said, "Sir Wilhelm, the kingdom needs your assistance as we''re facing off an opponent that''s of a simr level to yours."

    "What do you want me to do? Should I eradicate it from the face of this world?" the man named Wilhelm asked in response.

    "It would be preferable if you defeated and captured it, sir. With it, we would be able to make something that would benefit the entire kingdom," Zeldrion replied, prompting the man to ask in a tone with a hint of interest, "Is that so? Well, just tell me when I should take over."

    "As you wish, Sir Wilhelm." Ending their conversation there, King Zeldrion then looked at Aurus, who seemed to be umting energy behind his next attack. In any case, now that he truly knew who he was fighting against, he did not have to hold back anymore, pointing his de at the air as he shouted, "Ignite!"

    "Valtyrisk!"

    Swoosh!

    In an instant, the de named Valtyrisk, which Zeldrion wielded, radiated a faint orange light as it gave off the feeling that a dragon was slumbering inside it. After that, Zeldrion swung Valtyrisk downward, instantly cutting off both of Aurus''s arms.

    "[Cutthroat de Arts]."

    "Rend."

 Chapter 416 - Taking The Center Stage

    "Rend."

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    In less than an instant, both of Aurus''s arms had been cut off by what seemed to be an incredibly sharp yet intangible aura. Naturally, this aura came from the de Zeldrion was holding, Valtyrisk. To most of the bystanders that had been watching from afar, they only saw a quick sh of light emanate from the de Zeldrion was wielding. However, to Dalton, he could not help but look at Zeldrion with a solemn expression.

    "Something has changed," Dalton muttered as he knew that the skill Zeldrion used was different than that. Although it achieved the same result as what happened to Aurus''s arms, the aura formed by the attack would usually take on the form of arge dragon beforepressing at the final moment. But instead, the aura was imbued with the power of a dragon, yet had the form of a de¡­only to bepressed even further.

    Nevertheless, after looking at Aurus, who hastily recovered his injuries within seconds from the attack, it didn''t take long for Dalton to understand why King Zeldrion changed the way he used his skill. "Against an opponent that can quickly learn what you''re doing, other than using the element of surprise, there''s only another thing you can do."

    "Quickly be stronger."

    Whoosh!

    Without waiting for Aurus to retaliate, Zeldrion dashed forward as the intangible aura he had been suppressing up till now was released in its full glory, sending almost all of it towards the ignited Valtyrisk. With great force, he swung his de down, wanting to bisect Aurus into two. However, at the veryst second, Aurus ducked down and grabbed his enhanced Fragarach, holding it on both ends to defend against it.

    Crash!

    Normally, a person''s bones would have broken and turned into dust from the great force behind Zeldrion''s attack. After all, such an attack at his level would have already ttened a few cities. But as Aurus was an Inanimate, and a Spiriveritas at that, he was able to endure the force of the attack and send it towards the ground he stood on¡­though the earth greatly rumbled for a while thanks to it.

    Slightly distancing himself from Aurus, King Zeldrion then ced Valtyrisk near his right hip before emting the movement of what a great samurai would do.

    "[Cutthroat de Arts]."

    "sh."

    Swoosh!

    With great speed, a simr aura to what he had shot out before now headed towards Aurus, aiming to decapitate him, even though he knew that Aurus would be able to recover from it. Surprisingly, rather than receive the attack, Aurus raised his de upward before swinging it down, reminding those that watched his next move of a person they didn''t expect he''d emte.

    "King Zeldrion¡­"

    "[Deca-Fragarach]," Aurus muttered, sending out a de of dark green light that continue topress and increase in power as it gradually met up with the aura Zeldrion sent out. To the primal instinct, it was quite surprised that Aurus was able to reach a type of peak with the sword, just like how he had reached a type of peak with the w he usually made.

    Nevertheless, even though Aurus had reached a peak for sword arts¡­

    King Zeldrion was aiming to go even further.

    sh!

    As the two sides collided against one another, the two types of de lights radiated fierce levels of energy, seemingly giving off the feeling that they were two supreme dragons vying for territory. At first, the dark green de light sent out by Aurus seemed to have the advantage, with those that had keen eyes noticing that it was gradually engulfing the attack sent by Zeldrion. Unfortunately for Aurus, at the veryst minute, Zeldrion''s attack finally bared its fangs as it overwhelmed Aurus''s attack, easily dispelling it as it shaved off arge chunk of Aurus''s head.

    Seeing as how he was able to win against an attack Aurus had learned from him, Zeldrion could not help but feel proud, only to suppress those feelings as he knew that he needed to continue in bing stronger, lest he wanted to be overwhelmed. Unexpectedly, once Aurus recovered the injury he had received, revealing more of the jade green energy making up his body, Zeldrion could not help but let his anger control him for a bit, shouting to Aurus, "Is that all you got, you Inanimate bastard?!"

    Fsshhh!

    Seemingly triggered by those words, Aurus dispelled the enhanced Fragarach he was wielding so far before using the energy making up the de to formed a great number of des. Although it was uncertain as to whether he did it because his pride was hurt, it was apparent to all of them that Aurus was finally going all out from this point onward.

    ¡­

    While the ruler of the Seraph Kingdom and the being called The Great Cmity were duking it out to see which one would prevail, a small group of beings made up of four Pseudo-Animates and an Animate seemingly noticed that a ruckus was going on in another part of the kingdom they''d just arrived in. Of course, these five were Argentum and the others.

    "It seems Aurus won against the opponent he was fighting," Argentum could not help but mutter as the five of them were still levitating above the kingdom''s walls. While saying those words, he could not help but have conflicted emotions, wondering if he should be on the side of his original body or the side of the people that were just caught up in the mess.

    Naturally, the others noticed the conflicting tone in Argentum''s words, having a feeling of what he was feeling at the moment. However, at the moment arge barrier appeared inside the kingdom itself, all five of them looked at each other and knew that it had something to do with Aurus. After all, his goal seemed to be killing all of the people that lived in the kingdom.

    With that, Felix released a bit more of his energy to propel the five of them towards where the barrier was,nding just a few dozen meters away from it on top of one of the higher buildings. Removing the energy that enveloped the five of them, Felix and the others then looked at what was happening inside the barrier, instantly turning solemn as both Felix and Eleanor were surprised as to who Aurus was fighting.

    "Oi, oi, oi¡­you''ve got to be kidding me, right?" Eleanor could not help but rub her eyes a few times, wondering if what she was seeing was real. As for Felix, he could not stop scratching his head, wondering if they should even be involved in something like this. "Your eyes aren''t mistaking you, Eleanor. Although I also can''t believe it, Aurus is fighting against the ruler of Seraph Kingdom."

    Hearing Felix''s words, Argentum, Horell, and Herellia could not help but have grim expressions on their faces. After all, when someone was called the ruler of the kingdom, then it was no surprise that the personmanded a lot of power, may it be individually or as authority over arge group.

    Hoping that the ruler of the kingdom would be lenient on Aurus, Argentum looked at Felix, who seemed to know more about the person Aurus was fighting, and asked, "How strong is the ruler?"

    "He''s as strong as the one Aurus was fighting against a while ago," Felix replied. "In fact, if we got a closer view, I would''ve probably recognized who he was fighting against. Any being that wields a Rank 9 ss and be at the peak of its power is certainly not some random person."

    "In any case, Aurus is currently fighting against King Zeldrion Seraph, also a Rank 9 ss holder. He also has a few more monikers other than being the ruler of the kingdom, with the moniker ''Sole Sword Emperor'' being his most famous one," he continued.

    "Oh. There you go. That''s the reason why he''s called the Sole Sword Emperor," Felix said at the very moment King Zeldrion removed both of Aurus''s arms from his body. Ignoring the fear Argentum and the others felt from such an attack, he could not help but let out a sigh as he said, "At this moment, Aurus is seriously fighting at the level of a Pseudo-Transcendent. It won''t be long until the two of them go beyond it and reach the¡ª"

    Just as Felix said that, the aura surrounding King Zeldrion changed as the attack he unleashed at that moment was far stronger than any Pseudo-Transcendent could unleash. With great surprise, he could not help but mutter out in shock, "I can''t believe it. He''s actually grasped hints of a Principle?"

    Although Argentum had no clue what a Principle was, or to be more exact, he did not bother searching up what a Principle was, from how Felix worded it, it seemed that things were going out of Aurus''s favor. Clenching his fists from the sheer nervousness he felt as he watched the fight continue, Argentum looked up at the heavens once more, hoping for a miracle to happen.

    ¡­

    ng!

    At this moment, both Aurus and King Zeldrion seemed to be in their greatest element, going all out in all of their attacks as sword and w fought against each other. Of course, with the w Aurus had control over being farrger than Zeldrion''s de, it was hard for thetter to find openings where he couldnd a hit. Nevertheless, it was apparent that Zeldrion''s control over the de, as well as his power was improving.

    "[Cutthroat de Arts]."

    "Bisect!"

    Crash!

    With great fervor, Zeldrion sent out another attack with the help of his ignited Valtyrisk, sending arge wave of de light that seemed intent of removing everything in its way. In response, Aurus opened up the w he controlled, wanting to squeeze and crush it at the veryst minute. Unexpectedly, just as he was about to close the w, he felt like he had lost control over it for a short while, allowing Zeldrion to cut the w in two.

    Not knowing what the reason behind his loss of control was, Aurus hastily conjured another w, even going so far as to activate [Soul Transcendence] after realizing that he was now at a great disadvantage. With renewed drive, Aurus sent out a w made out of a hundred thousand des, wanting to turn his opponent''s body into pulp.

    But of course, King Zeldrion wasn''t going to give Aurus any chance of doing so, passing his de to his left hand, wanting to meet the w with his de head-on. After that, he extended the de outward, waiting for the very moment the tip of the de collided with the w before using all of his strength and aura to circle it around the w.

    "[Cutthroat de Arts]!"

    "Arc!"

    Amidst the attack he had done to remove the threat that was the w, Zeldrion seemed to have understood something as his de circled around therge w, giving him the feeling as if his previous ways of handling his de was wrong. With that understanding, he then continued to let the de circle around the w as he applied his new understanding into action.

    Crash!

    Unsurprisingly, the w was cut into two, with one part of it falling to the ground as it gradually dissipated into thin air. Looking at the difference brought about by the small change he had just done, King Zeldrion could not help but be left aghast, only to be excited as he muttered to himself, "Could it be that¡­I''m finally transitioning from a Conjecture to a Principle?"

    sh!

    Wanting to see if his doubts were not unfounded, Zeldrion hastily sent out another attack with a quick flick of his wrist, noticing that the de light that resulted from it being sharper and more refined. Aurus, who noticed the attack, quickly set up ayer of defense around him with des, but even with [Soul Transcendence] activated, it onlysted a few seconds before it crumpled down.

    Seeing how a simple attack of his contained so much power, King Zeldrion could not help but be ted, only to suppress this feeling as he said to himself, "Don''t get toocent, Zeldrion. You''ve only begun toprehend your Principle. Use this chance to improve it even further!"

    And with that, he continued on with his relentless attacks against Aurus.

    While that was happening, in the recesses of Aurus''s mind, seemingly corrupted by the primal instinct, a faint flicker of light emanated from it out of nowhere. Although it was just a faint flicker of light, it still sensed what was happening on the outside. With that, it asked itself.

    "What¡­am I doing here?"

 Chapter 417 - Desperate Measures

    As the faint light in the recesses of Aurus''s mind continued to flicker, it moved throughout, wanting to know what had happened to it. Utilizing its control over the various senses, it eventually found out that something else was upying the body it was supposed to control. However, it knew for a fact that it did not have enough strength to fight against it yet.

    Continuing to watch what was unfolding on the other side, the faint light could not help but inwardly let out a sigh as it had finally remembered why it seemed to have gone into a slumber in the first ce. "Although I''m not certain as to how it did it, the awakening of that instinct in my body should have been the thing controlling my body as of now. Since it''s currently fighting against a being that''s incredibly strong, I shouldn''t disturb it for now."

    "However, that doesn''t mean I''m going to gather my strength back and take control over this body once more," it muttered, slightly exerting force on the thing controlling Aurus''s body, causing it to dy in its judgment as Aurus''s body could only defend against the attack that was aiming for him at the veryst second. Knowing very well that disturbing the thing currently controlling Aurus''s body would jeopardize its survival as well, the faint light gradually dimmed down as it said, "I''ll wait for the right moment to strike back."

    "At that point, it would be the perfect time to take back what is mine."

    ¡­

    sh! sh! sh!

    As the fight continued on between Aurus and King Zeldrion, the ruler of the Seraph Kingdom, it seemed that one side was finally gaining an advantage after seemingly being in a stalemate for quite some time. Unfortunately for Aurus, the one that was gaining an advantage was the one he was fighting against.

    "[Cutthroat de Arts]."

    "Pierce!"

    Crash!

    With Zeldrion sending out another one of his ultimate moves to make Aurus admit defeat, Aurus quickly set up a fewyers of defense against it, slightly beingte in doing so due to apse in judgment. Naturally, such apse in judgment would ce in a precarious situation, with Aurus''s left limb and a part of his upper torso being carved from the sheer strength of the attack.

    Seeing as to how the attack that would normally create a small hole form a big hole that would sever one''s limbs, Zeldrion could not help but be more and more excited as he knew that he was familiarizing himself with the feeling of touching upon a Principle, a level of understanding that he had wanted to achieve so long ago.

    At the very beginning of his breakthrough of understanding what a Principle meant, his power had greatly increased, but his control suffered because of it. With a strong foe in front of him, he had to quickly adapt to his newfound power and make it his own. At this point, he was certain that after this battle, he would have at least an 80% chance of transforming his Conjecture into a Principle, which would then allow him to enter the ranks of Transcendents.

    But of course, as the ruler of a kingdom, he wanted to increase this chance to where he would be certain that he would eventually obtain a Principle with enough time. Although that was obviously the case from another standpoint, to King Zeldrion, the amount of time that he wanted to take to form his Principle was obviously hundreds to thousands of times less than what others think.

    Nevertheless, with that in mind, he continued to fight against Aurus, sending de after de of attack towards a foe that seemed to be on its legs. Controlling the level of strength in his attacks that would be enough to dy the other side from retaliating, he continued to refine the control he had over his de, as well as expand hisprehension regarding the Principle that he had touched.

    ¡­

    While Zeldrion and Aurus were continuing to fight against one another, all of the bystanders that were watching the fight unfold were left astounded by the various techniques that had been shown by both sides. After all, to almost all of them, fights among those that have Rank 9 sses were few and far between. With the barrier containing the two of them being very sturdy, even children watched the fight, bing inspired to be as strong as the two beings that were fighting in front of them.

    As for those that had higher ranks, they insteadprehended something else from the fights, finding ways to improve upon their control or their strength just from looking at the fight. It was even more so for those that were inclined towards the Wind element, or those that were that were inclined towards the de. For them, the fight was more or less an impromptu lesson on how to hone their control and mastery over those two things, allowing them to enter a state of enlightenment and epiphany. In fact, some had even entered the next rank of sses due to the fight.

    And then¡­there was Dalton. As his friend was fighting for the safety of the kingdom, his eyes were clearly fixated on the fight. Of course, he knew for a fact that his friend wouldn''t die from a fight like this. After all, he was there to save him at the veryst moment if need be. However, after watching their fight for a while, even he wondered if he even had the ability to save him, given how Zeldrion''s power had greatly increased throughout the fight.

    "At the beginning, hisbat power was equivalent to that of a Pseudo-Transcendent, which is around the same as mybat power," Dalton muttered as he tried to make a sense of things. "However, after he changed how he wielded his de, his control over the de, as well as his strength has vastly improved, giving me the feeling that I''m looking at someone far stronger than me¡­someone that is on another level of existence altogether."

    As he continued to ponder over it, everything finally clicked in Dalton''s mind as he could not help but exim, "Ah! That''s it! Zeldrion has finally touched upon the level of a¡ª"

    Whoosh!

    Just before he could finish his sentence, a barrier appeared around him, isting him from those that were beside him a while ago. Looking at the expressions of the people that were previously beside him, it seemed like they haven''t noticed the barrier beside them. Wondering as to who had conjured the barrier, the faint sounds of footsteps soon resounded throughout the barrier as a stern yet soft voice asked Dalton, "You don''t want others to be shocked now, do you¡­"

    "Dalton?"

    With a slight frown on his face, Dalton turned around to see who the person that had conjured the barrier was, only for the frown to quickly disappear as he instantly knew he wasn''t anything in front of this man. Just from the aura the man exuded, danger signs constantly appeared in Dalton''s mind as he tried his best to maintain calm.

    Although he was someone that was only known by a select few people in the kingdom, Dalton knew of the man due to how he was the Supreme Sage of the Arcana Tower. With the man having a simr appearance to the current ruler of the Seraph Kingdom, it wouldn''t be surprising for others to have their mouths agape when they looked at him.

    However, to Dalton, once he saw this man, he could only give the man a respectful bow as he told the man, "My apologies, Sir Wilhelm. I was just carried by my emotions."

    Indeed. The one Zeldrion contacted while fighting against Aurus was the same person Dalton was talking to right now. Wilhelm Seraph, the grandfather of current ruler Zeldrion Seraph, as well as the Seraph Kingdom''s guardian. But his greatest achievement among all of that is the fact that¡­he''s a Rank 3 Transcendent.

    Nodding in response to Dalton''s words, Wilhelm stepped forward as he looked at his grandson fight against the being that was called The Great Cmity. After watching for a while, his eyes could not help but glisten as he muttered, "It seems that kid has finally found out a thing or two about Principles. Although it''s still a little bit rough around the edges, I can definitely tell that that''s a bona fide Principle right there."

    "Sir Wilhelm, does that mean that Zeldrion is already¡­?" Listening to Wilhelm''s words only confirmed Dalton''s suspicion. With that, he asked his question, to which Wilhelm lightly smiled as he said in response, "It seems that I won''t be staying here for longer, seeing that someone is going to take my spot as the kingdom''s guardian very soon."

    Hearing that, Dalton could not help but let out a long sigh as he said, "To think that Zeldrion is the first one among us four to break through to the Transcendent level." After saying that to himself, he could not help but let out a chuckle, muttering, "Then again, he''s the only one among us that hasn''t really stopped training."

    "In any case, I guess he''s finally achieved his lifelong dream of being a true Super Animate," he said soon after, only for him to notice Wilhelm looking at him with the same light smile still on his face. Seeing that, he could not help but shudder as he focused his sights back on the fight, prompting Wilhelm to let out a light chuckle as he inwardly muttered to himself, ''Although he says that, it won''t be long until he finds his path as well.''

    ''To think I''ll be double useless, what a satisfying sight to see.''

    ¡­

    At this point, over a quarter of a day had already passed since the two started to fight. Surprisingly, all of the people that were watching the fight did not be bored at all as any move the two made on each other had the possibility of turning the tides. As for those that had higher-ranked sses, they even wanted the two to fight for even longer in order to understand more of their shorings and improve upon it.

    However, as all of them had noticed by now, it was apparent to them as to who was going to be the victor of the fight. After all, seeing as to how he looked to others, Aurus was truly on hisst legs at this point, having relied on doing the bare minimum to defend against Zeldrion''s devastating attacks.

    Then again, it was also at this point that everything finally clicked in Aurus''s mind as he now thoroughly understood what he was up against. Although it was something daunting and terrifying to fight against at the very start, after being exposed to it for quite some time, hisprehension speed had finally allowed him to grasp the principles behind Zeldrion''s attacks, waiting for the right moment to truly retaliate and tip the scales back to him.

    Eventually, Aurus had finally been given the right chance to retaliate, seeing Zeldrion raise Valtyrisk up in the air once more, aiming to send out an attack that would truly put him out ofmission. As he waited for the attack tond, he went ahead and started to conjure a great number of des behind his back, making it seem like he was going to defend against once more.

    Seeing what Aurus was about to do, Zeldrion could only smirk as he swung his awakened Valtyrisk downward as he eximed, "[Cutthroat de Arts]!"

    "Rend!"

    Swoosh!

    At that instant, Aurus had finally used his teleportation skill to warp in front of Zeldrion, something he had only done at the beginning of the fight. After that, arge dark green domain wrapped around the two of them, catching Zeldrion off guard as Aurus muttered, "[Ruler of All]."

    "You do not possess the power to fight against me," he soon said, seemingly removing all of the strength that was coursing throughout Zeldrion''s body. Then, with great speed, he assembled the des to form arge w, truly leaving no room for Zeldrion to retaliate as he even went one step further, activating the skill [Omnipresence], turning all of his attacks into deadly long-ranged attacks, which meant that it was useless for Zeldrion to escape.

    Mustering all of the strength in his body, Aurus was about to swipe the w towards Zeldrion, aiming for the sure kill. Unfortunately, as if heaven didn''t want him to have it his way, an evenrger domain covered the two of them as a third person had finally entered the barrier.

    "Hey, friend. How about¡­"

    "You stop bullying my grandson like that?"

 Chapter 418 - Regaining Clarity

    As this third person entered the barrier where a reversal was about to happen, Aurus stopped his w just at it was about to hit Zeldrion at its greatest power yet. Well, it wasn''t as if he didn''t want to go all the way and end all his troubles there and then. It''s just that¡­he couldn''t.

    Whoosh!

    At a seemingly short instant, a domain that spanned farrger than the domain created by [Ruler of All] spread over Aurus, Zeldrion, and the third person that had entered the fray. Forming a stark contrast with the dark green energy that seemed to cover the domain Aurus had conjured, this domain was glimmering a lustrous silver, allowing those that couldn''t see what was happening in the dark green domain to find out what could have been the final verdict.

    Seeing that the ruler of their kingdom was only a few inches away from total death, everyone watching the fight unfold could not help but suck in a bit of cold air as they all looked at the third person with respect and awe. Respect, because he was the one who saved their ruler for imminent doom. And awe¡­from the sheer power he was exuding.

    While this was happening, Dalton looked at the space that had opened up beside him. Surprisingly, no one decided to fill in this space as a barrier still existed between him and those outside the barrier. Seeing the barrier still up and running around him as he watched the fight, Dalton let out a light chuckle as he looked at the third person that entered the barrier he conjured, muttering, "He''s finally made his move."

    Indeed, the person that made a move was none other than the Seraph Kingdom''s guardian, the only Transcendent to exist in the kingdom, Wilhelm Seraph.

    Seeing as he could not move his w even an inch further, Aurus decided to dispel the w before aiming for the person that had put him farther away from the only step he needed to take to achieve a higherprehension level. With the primal instinct in control, Aurus moved the domain formed by [Ruler of All] to where Wilhelm was, instantly muttering out statements that seemed to be amand from the heavens above.

    "You have lost sense of all energy."

    "Your techniques are of no use to you."

    "Your body is frail."

    "Your feet are rooted to the ground in fear."

    One statement after another, a debilitating effect would be applied to Wilhelm as he felt the power he had as a Transcendent gradually disappear. At first, the energy that seemed to surround him at first instantly disappeared. Then, the techniques he had mastered for a great amount of time seemed to be gradually forgotten by him. After that, he felt like his body was being shackled down as his legs couldn''t help but shiver in fear.

    However, even after all of that, Wilhelm calmly looked at the being in front of him with a confident smile on his face. "So, it seems I''m up against one of the Spiriveritae. I haven''t seen you before, so I''m guessing you''re a new Spiriveritas. The twelfth? The thirteenth?"

    Seeing as Aurus did not respond to his question, Wilhelm did not find it offensive at all. Instead, he let out a chuckle as he continued, Anyways, the other Spiriveritae should have told you before entering this kingdom that¡­"

    "Techniques like these don''t work on me."

    Swoosh!

    In less than an instant, the silver domain that covered all three of them instantlypressed to cover both Aurus and Wilhelm. Soon after, this silver domain conjured strands of silver energy that headed to where Wilhelm, quickly removing the debilitating effects brought about by the skill Aurus had activated. Taking in a deep breath as he watched his opponent swipe at his body with a w made out of multiple wind des, he clenched his fist before sending out a straight punch towards it.

    Bang!

    Surprisingly, as he sent out his punch, the silver domain that covered both him and Aurus sent multiple strands of silver energy towards his fist, creating a silver fist that had amplified the force behind his attack. At the very moment both w and fist had collided, it was obvious as to what the aftermath was.

    Whoosh!

    As if he was a bird that lost its wings, Aurus was sent flying with great speed before crashing towards the barrier that hampered from going any further, falling to the ground soon after. After such an attack, it wouldn''t be surprising for others to think that Aurus would decide that he finally had enough and wave a white g.

    Unfortunately for those bystanders, Aurus was currently being controlled by a primal instinct, an instinct that only acted to achieve two things: to survive and to kill as many beings as possible. With that in mind, it didn''t take long for Aurus to stand up as he quickly repaired the injuries he had received, prompting Wilhelm to click his tongue as he could not help but say, "I haven''t met any other Spiriveritas like you before."

    "But that makes it all the more interesting," he said soon after as the domain surrounding the two of them before had now condensed around his body, emanating a level of power that seemed to tell others that he was someone that couldn''t be trifled with. After that, he looked at Zeldrion, who seemed to be looking at him with a hint of guilt in his gaze, before telling him, "Leave for now. You can tell me everything elseter."

    With a slightly hesitant nod, Zeldrion quickly left the barrier, heading to where Dalton was as he gave off the feeling that he wanted to watch Wilhelm fight against Aurus. Seeing that his grandson hadn''t truly left the vicinity and decided to watch the fight unfold even further, Wilhelm let out a soft peal ofughter as he said to himself, "Even after staying with him for over two hundred years now, he still hasn''t changed."

    "Anyways, I should really finish this fight," he said soon after before charging to where Aurus with a quick dash, clenching his fists once more before sending out a barrage of silver fists.

    Bang! Bang! Bang!

    Without hesitation, Aurus used his teleportation skill to appear behind Wilhelm, wanting to catch him off guard as the fists collided with the barrier. With the silver fists containing a lot of power, every time the barrier seemed to waver, the bystanders became more anxious and fearful that the barrier was going to break. Fortunately for them, it hadn''t gone past the tipping point as Aurus sent out another attack of his own, prompting those who were watching to learn from them to let out a collective sigh of relief.

    Seeing that his opponent was specialized in hand-to-handbat, Aurus went ahead and¡­closed the gap between them. Thinking that his long-ranged attacks would be blocked by his opponent either way, Aurus decided that this would be the best choice, sending all of his strength and energy towards his fists as he punched out, even going so far as to imbue the domain from [Ruler of All] into it.

    Wilhelm, who was watching this unfold in front of him, could not help but let out a cackle as he said to Aurus, "So, you want to fight against this old man with fists? Let me tell you that I won''t back down that easily!"

    Without hesitation, Wilhelm slightly expanded the silver domain to where it would cover both of them once more, reducing the strength behind Aurus''s fists while increasing his own. After that, he willed the domain to send out a barrage of silver fists towards Aurus from all directions, basically forming an attack that gave Aurus no way to escape out of.

    "[Lustrous Barrage of Omnipresence]!"

    Bang! Bang! Bang! Bang!

    With each silver fist that collided with his body, Aurus felt that a great chunk of his vitality was being cut off, given how he had no way to form a level of defense as the interval between the fists were just too short for him to make use of. Seeing how Aurus would eventually die from the attack, the primal instinct that was controlling Aurus''s body was going into panic, wondering if there was any way for it to escape from the clutches of hell.

    Fortunately for the primal instinct, it was at this very moment that the faint flicker of light that awakened from before to appear once more. Seemingly looking at the primal instinct, the faint flicker of light asked, "You want to escape this predicament?"

    As it had no way to respond to its question, the primal instinct quickly sent out signs of affirmation, to which the faint flicker of light responded, "Alright, I''ll help you out. But in exchange, let me have control until the fight is over."

    Hearing the condition proposed by the faint flicker of light, the primal instinct felt like it had to refuse it, but for some reason, it quickly agreed, prompting the faint flicker of light to let out a light chuckle as it told the primal instinct, "For now, do this¡­"

    ¡­

    While that was happening, more and more silver fists collided with Aurus''s body as his vitality was being sapped away. Of course, he converted the energy he was regenerating into vitality, but even that wasn''t enough to bnce the damage he had received. At most, he had only slowed it down to where he had more time to decide.

    For those that were watching it as a means of entertainment, they all booed at Aurus as they wanted to fight to be over now that it was at a standstill. However, for Felix and the others, especially Argentum, they looked at this from a different standpoint.

    "Why is your original body not moving?" Felix could not help but look at Argentum and ask. In response, Argentum shook his head as he replied, "I have no idea either."

    But just as he said those words, a stream of thoughts entered his thoughts from who knows where, prompting Argentum to focus his attention on Aurus once more, sensing that there was now something different in the Aurus he was looking at. With clenched fists, he gazed at Aurus with excitement, causing the other four to look at him with a hint of confusion.

    Although the stream of thoughts told him that he couldn''t tell the others of it yet, Argentum had finally gained confirmation of his return, inwardly eximing to the heavens, "Oh heavens! Thank you! Thank you for bringing him back! You''ve allowed a miracle to happen!"

    ¡­

    Surprisingly, a couple minutes had passed since an impasse was formed. At the moment, the energy making up Aurus''s body seemed to be on itsst legs, only radiating a faint green luster that told others that he was still alive. As for Wilhelm, he continued to stare at Aurus''s body as he sent out wave after wave of silver fists. Since he was the kingdom''s guardian, he had to make sure that he was doing his duty to the fullest, knowing fully well that he couldn''t be half-hearted with his job whatsoever.

    Fortunately for him, it seemed that his dutifulness brought him a bit of a gift as Aurus, who hadn''t moved all this time, finally made a move¡­but not in the way he had expected. Looking at Wilhelm, who was surprised to see Aurus finally move, Aurus went ahead and focused more of his energy towards healing as he asked Wilhelm in an innocent tone, "Er¡­could you stop sending out attacks at me?"

    "And why should I do that?" Although the tone Aurus used to talk with him had no malicious intent whatsoever, that did not mean Wilhelm was going to stop then and there. But after hearing Aurus''s response to his question, the two sides of his mind seemed to be waging war on one another, considering whether he should do what Aurus said or not. As for what Aurus said, it was¡­

    "Well¡­"

    "I''m giving up on fighting back."

 Chapter 419 - The Fight To End All Fights

    "Hoh? You give up on fighting back?" Wilhelm could not help but say in response to Aurus''s words sometimeter. As the guardian of the Seraph Kingdom, it was impossible for him to be oblivious towards the actions Aurus had done in order to arrive here. Nevertheless, hearing words of peaceing from what seemed to be the kingdom''s great enemy right now truly caught him off guard.

    "Can you really say that even after all you did? You killed a group of the kingdom''s finest men and forced your way into this kingdom just so you could go on a massacre. And now you''re telling me you''re going to stop? Unless if I was an utter fool, I don''t even believe a lick of what you''re saying right now," he continued, his mind now set on ending it once and for all. With that, the domain surrounding him intensified once more as silver fists were sent towards Aurus once more.

    Seeing that the move Wilhelm went with was to continue attacking him, Aurus could not help but let out an inward sigh, thinking that the primal instinct that was previously controlling his body had really gone too far. Then again, it was also partly his fault in letting the primal instinct take over his body after experiencing great amounts of euphoria.

    ''In any case, that goes my chance of ending this without having to fight any further,'' he muttered inwardly, instantly obtaining a message from the primal instinct that took a backseat in his mind. As it did not have any sort of intelligence, it only radiated out feelings that Aurus could only assume was telling him to not concede at all, but instead fight back with all his might.

    Although the reason why Aurus had gotten so strong up to this point was due to all of the killing he had done, even back when he was still a young Inanimate, he could not help but find the fact that he had gotten so strong so quickly as jarring. To him, it was about time to take a rest and fully limate to the strength he had obtained through the Epiphany he had mass leveled thanks to the primal instinct. After that, he would apologize to the parties that had been implicated in the chaos the primal instinct brought.

    While thinking about it, he could not help but recall the words Erudis told him the first time they met, informing him of the dangers if he went out. Scratching his head as he continued to convert his energy regeneration into vitality, he wracked his mind to think up of a solution that would allow the fires of anger to subside, at least somewhat.

    And it was then that a crazy thought appeared in his mind. He did not know where it came from, nor how he decided to think about it, but after mulling over the possibilities of the thought, he could not help but feel like it was the best choice he could make in order to end this quickly.

    Looking at a certain being beyond the barrier covering both him and Wilhelm, Aurus went ahead and sent that being a few messages through the [Thought Sharing] skill they both had, his mind resolute after a second barrage of silver fistsing from Wilhelm.

    As to what this thought may be, it could be summed up into one word.

    Sacrifice.

    Naturally, the primal instinct could infer what Aurus was thinking during this time, quickly radiating out feelings that told him to not do it as it went against the way of the primal instinct. Of course, Aurus wholly ignored the primal instinct at this moment, even going so far as to think up of a way to get rid of the thing that instigated this chaos in the first ce.

    Seeing how Aurus did not even make a move after receiving a couple of silver fist barrages, Wilhelm could not help but have second thoughts as to the statement Aurus told him. At this moment, he could not help but think that Aurus was staying true to his words of not fighting back.

    However, that thought soon disappeared as Aurus asked him out of the blue, "What''s your name?"

    "Huh?" Responding with a sound, Wilhelm was caught off guard, incredibly confused. Who the hell would ask their opponent for their name at this point?

    Nevertheless, Aurus continued, even going so far as to chuckle as he asked once more, "What''s wrong with me asking for your name? It''s not like knowing your name would lead me to winning over you or anything."

    Of course, Wilhelm interpreted that response into something that was the exact opposite of what Aurus was trying to achieve. With his fists close to his chest, Wilhelm finally asked, "What''s the point of asking me this?"

    "Well, since you''ve declined my wish of stopping the fight, I''ve decided to approach the problem from another perspective," Aurus replied, only for the aura surrounding him to intensify to a level that only paled inparison to the aura Wilhelm was exuding. Though, when Wilhelm sensed the aura, there was no killing intent in it at all. Instead, what was contained in the aura was the pure intent to fight.

    Easily understanding what Aurus wanted to happen just by reading his aura, Wilhelm finally rxed a bit as he asked him, "So¡­you want to settle this with one final bout?"

    "Indeed." Aurus nodded, his aura now amicablepared to back when the primal instinct controlled his body. "Though, unlike our previous battle, which was a battle of attrition, we''ll instead settle this within three moves."

    Without waiting for the other side to ask the question, he continued, "Naturally, since we''re only limited to three moves, we have no choice to go all out. So, what do you say? Would you like to ept?"

    "What''s in it for me?" Wilhelm asked in response. "Also, what''s in it for you?"

    "I''m d you asked." Aurus chuckled. "If I win, then you wouldn''t hold me ountable for the chaos I brought to multiple settlements. Of course, I''ll help you out in the restoration process."

    "And if I win?" Wilhelm narrowed his eyes, wondering if he was getting the short end of the stick here. However, when he listened to Aurus''s next words, he could not help but widen his eyes, even going so far as to look at his grandson, nodding at each other.

    "Well¡­" Aurus scratched his head as he replied. "If you win, then I¡­"

    "Would concede and allow you to do whatever you want with me as you please."

    Thud.

    As these words resounded throughout the surroundings with great speed, one of them could not help but kneel to the ground as tears started to stream out of his eyes. After asking the heavens for a miracle to happen, only for it to take a 180 degree turn soon after, Argentum could not help but wonder if the heavens were mocking his wishes.

    While continuing toment about the heavens were unfair, a string of thoughts soon entered his mind, all of them containing Aurus''s voice. As he listened to them, the more he could not help but shed more tears, eventually going so far as to shout out, "Aurus! Please don''t do this!"

    Unfortunately, only Felix and the others could hear his plea. The attentions of the other people watching the battle were totally fixated towards what was happening in the barrier, wondering what this twist would bring to this fight.

    ''For this Spiriveritas to offer up something like this, I''m guessing it has a few trump cards up its sleeve,'' Wilhelm could not help but think. ''However, as long as I could endure all three moves, I''m certain I''d be able to help Zeldrion with what he wants to do. After all, that''s the main reason why he called me toe here in the first ce.''

    ''Then again, there''s also the threat of the other Spiriveritaeing here once they know what''s going to happen to their member,'' he muttered inwardly, immediately weighing the pros and cons of agreeing to this condition. In the end, he let his greed for greater power take over and agree to it, lightly nodding as he told Aurus, "Alright, I ept. As for your earlier question, the name''s Wilhelm Seraph. I''m the Seraph Kingdom''s guardian."

    Hearing a few gasps of surprise from outside the barrier, Aurus could not help but chuckle as he said in response, "By the looks of it, you don''t show yourself that often. In any case, it would go against my code of honor if I didn''t reciprocate your introduction. You can call me Verdante, the Thirteenth Spiriveritas of Erudinia."

    "Verdante, huh. Makes sense why I haven''t heard of you," Wilhelm could not help but say in response, finally letting out a rare chuckle soon after.

    "Well, let''s start this final battle, shall we? You make the first move," he said soon after, arranging his arms into a cross as the silver domain spread around the two of them all this time had condensed to cover his entire body. At this moment, he looked more like a sculpture made out of metal.

    "Give it your all, you''re going to need it," Wilhelm told Aurus, taking a few steps back just in case Aurus needed it.

    Hearing Wilhelm''s words, Aurus could not help butugh, saying, "Thanks for the concern."

    Whoosh!

    Without hesitation, Aurus went ahead and dispelled the domain created through [Ruler of All] before activating [Supreme Deification] once more, increasing his stats to a great extent. Normally, one would think that it would be better for him to have [Ruler of All] activated instead of [Supreme Deification], given how it would allow him to control the surroundings to a certain extent. However, there was something Aurus hadn''t shown yet, something that would totally catch even Wilhelm by surprise.

    "[Dark Universal de]."

    Swoosh!

    In an instant, Aurus''s aura had intensified by a couple of times, making all of the bystanders outside of the barrier feel like they were looking at a sharp de. At this moment, Wilhelm looked at Dalton, who was standing beside Zeldrion, and nodded at him.

    Easily understanding what Wilhelm meant by the nod, Dalton quickly made a few gestures with his hands as arge amount of mana was infused into the barrier, increasing its thickness, as well as its durability.

    "[Soul Transcendence]."

    Fwoosh!

    Not long after, his aura went under a drastic change once more, making bystanders feel like they were watching a volcano gradually nearing eruption.

    Taking a few steps forward, Aurus went ahead and activated two more skills.

    "[Sole Entity]."

    "[Omnipresence]."

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    With [Sole Entity] increasing the effect of [Supreme Deification] even further, while [Omnipresence] increased the damage of his attacks, even a single attack from Aurus at this point would be able to wipe off a part of a city from the face of this world with just a single touch. In fact, Aurus could not help but wonder why the primal instinct didn''t use these skills that often.

    Though, it did not take long for him to find out why.

    Ding!

    ''Your body is struggling to handle the enhancement brought by your skills. The system highly suggests disabling a few of the currently active skills.''

    ''Ah. With it focusing on survival, then there''s no surprise as to why it hadn''t used it,'' he thought, only to lightly chuckle as he muttered out a skill he had only used once before.

    "[True Semis Regulus]."

    Fwoosh!

    In an instant, the problem of his body not being able to handle the enhancement was quickly alleviated, giving Wilhelm a faint feeling that he hadpletely underestimated how much power Aurus was hiding from him all this time. Nevertheless, he had already agreed to it, so he went ahead and fortified his defense against the first attack.

    Seeing that the Life and Will points he had not touched for a long while finally trickling down, Aurus went ahead and sped through the other skills that boosted his strength, as well as reduced the strength of the opposing party.

    "[Noble Awakening]."

    "[Domain of Nobility]."

    "[Semis Regulus: Ruling Entity]."

    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!

    In an instant, three moves, one enhancing his stats even further, and two debilitating his opponent, were activated, quickly giving off the feeling that Aurus was nowparable to Wilhelm, at least in terms of aura. Though, that quickly changed when Aurus activated yet another skill.

    "¡­"

    "[Pseudo-Animate Ascension]."

 Chapter 420 Zephyrus Tribulation

    Chapter 420 Zephyrus Tribtion

    Mercuria Continent, inside the Inheritance of Erudition.

    While Erudis had his attention fixated on what was happening through the orb in front of him, watching what seemed to be a fight between the strongest person of a kingdom and a Spiriveritas like him, an orb quickly flew to where he was not long after, immediately showing two beings that had bark the color of pink and cyan, respectively.

    "So, what''s going on with Verdante?" Erudis asked the two.

    "Well, as you can see through the live image through the orb, Verdante has offered the guardian of the Seraph Kingdom a chance to have thetter do whatever he wanted with the former. Though, from the looks of it, it seems that Verdante is going to win," Vytalis, the one with pink bark, responded.

    However, Erudis could not help but frown instead in response to Vytalis''s words. Sure, he could see right now that Aurus had seemingly increased his power by a thousand times, even going so far as to triumph his power when he went all out. Nevertheless, the divination he had done earlier seemed to say otherwise.

    ''Perhaps my divination is wrong,'' he could not help but mutter inwardly. Then again, there was basis for his doubts. After all, divination involved manipting time and fate, something that he had only barely touched thanks to his Epiphany of Omniscience. In any case, even with his superficial understanding of divination, most of his divinations were right, with only a few rare cases of it being wrong.

    "Keep watch over Verdante, Vytalis, Mannelyn," Erudis said not long after, to which the two nodded in response before their conversation. With the orb flying away as he focused his attention on the orb showing Aurus fighting against Wilhelm, he could not help but be silent for a bit as he pondered as to what he should do. Eventually, he turned off the orb and stood up from his seat, scratching his head as he muttered, "Although there''s a chance of my divination being wrong, I''m just going there to see if fate has ordained what shall happen."

    Whoosh!

    A few secondster, he disappeared from where he was standing, hastily making his way to the Maerr-viki Continent, wanting to see the oue of the fight for himself.

    ¡­

    "[Pseudo-Animate Ascension]."

    Swoosh!

    In an instant, the aura surrounding Aurus had intensified to the point that it quickly surpassed the aura Wilhelm was emanating. At first, the difference between the two was considerably small, though it did not take long for that to change as Wilhelm quickly felt like he was looking at someone that shouldn''t have existed at the same ne as him. To him right now, it was as if he was looking at a Transcendent that was beyond Rank 5, a chasm way too far for him to fathom.

    In fact, the aura Aurus was emanating was incredibly imposing to the point that the strengthened barrier surrounding the two started to vibrate faintly, as if it was submitting to Aurus''s will. Then again, Aurus''s species was half-royalty among the Spiritii, which was now changed to full royalty due to him reaching the peak of [Purification of Noble Blood].

    Seeing how Aurus continued to grow stronger while Wilhelm was substantially weakened by the two domains Aurus had conjured, as well as the fact that the barrier seemed to be verge of breaking down, Dalton could not help but let out a sigh as he muttered, "I hope I get something else out of this."

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    Without hesitation, Dalton quickly made a few gestures once more,yering magic circles on top of other magic circles as a synergistic resonance appeared between them. After allowing the magic circles to be filled to the brim with energy, he then sent them towards two locations. The first location was the barrier, with the goal of reinforcing the barrier to the point that it was able to endure the aura Aurus was emanating.

    As for the second location¡­that was Wilhelm. Just as Aurus was preparing to unleash the strongest move he had unleashed in his life, an incredibly sturdy barrier made out of reinforced mana soon covered Wilhelm, even going so far as to stack on top of the domain surrounding his body and resonate with it, increasing his defense even further.

    Although the barrier did give him a bit more confidence in being able to withstand the attack, as he had finally realized that Aurus had concealed a lot of him, Wilhelm did not put everything into the barrier Dalton had conjured. After all, Dalton was just a Rank 9 ss holder. The gulf of power between someone at Rank 9 Animate and Rank 1 Transcendent was already vast. Much less to say between Rank 9 and the power Aurus was exuding right now, which to Wilhelm, felt like someone at Rank 6 Transcendent.

    "[Transcendent Immtion]!" Wilhelm shouted while Aurus was just about to enact his move, transforming the silver domain covering his body into a swarm of silver mes that enveloped him from head to toe. At this point, he was cing literally everything into the domain he had nurtured all throughout his life. The mana he could wield, the knowledge he had amassed, even the cells making up his body were not spared from this as his body started to slowly disintegrate.

    In any case, he knew that this would just be a small price if he were to survive against Aurus''s attack. And if he didn''t, then it would just be his bad luck.

    As for Aurus, he calmly looked at the happenings around Wilhelm, noticing how an outsider conjured a sturdy barrier around him, as well as the fact that Wilhelm went all out in enhancing his defense. Even though the primal instinct was fuming right now that it had allowed Wilhelm to be able to endure against his attack, Aurus was not concerned. After all, he was going to use something that even the primal instinct did not dare use.

    "Identify [Spellswords of Ruination]."

    Ding!

    ________

    [Spellswords of Ruination (Legendary)] (Level 40/40)

    Grade: X (Transcendent)

    An offensive skill formed from the fusion of multiple skills that harmonize and resonate with one another, allowing one to harness the power of Wind to unleash great feats that would easily mow down a nation''s army, or perhaps, even tten a continent. As a skill with a fixed name, it holds inconceivable amounts of power, which have now shown its true colors due to it now being at the X-grade Transcendent level.

    > Has ess to all Wind element spells from Level 0 to Lower Level 5

    > Has ess to all special moves contained in [Nine Realms'' Myriad Spellswords (Wind Variant)]

    > Obtain ess to a set of powerful moves called Lost Arts

    > Obtain the ability to fuse the ultimate moves contained in [Nine Realms'' Myriad Spellswords] and the Lost Arts, giving rise to a set of more powerful moves called Ultimate Lost Arts

    > Obtain ess to an ultimate move, Divine Art: Zephyrus Tribtion

    FP Cost: Depends on the skill/spell used

    ________

    Briefly looking at thest line of text on the screen he quickly dispelled, Aurus went ahead and recalled the knowledge the skill gave him in regards to the usage of the Divine Art. After standing still for a few seconds, he then took a few more steps forward, looking at Wilhelm, who was currently focused on increasing his defense to the highest it could possibly go.

    Lightly nodding at the man''s courage, Aurus went ahead and quickly conjured a thousand des out of wind, reminding himself that he was in a race against time. After all, the amount of FP he had could only support the skill for so long.

    With that, he fused the thousand des together, forming a giant sword that would normally be wielded by someone a few timesrger than Aurus. However, for some reason, Aurus was able to grab it at its hilt and wield it like any other sword.

    Pointing the sword towards the sky, he then bellowed, with all of the people listening to him, "Great god of wind from beyond, listen. I, Verdante, beseech your presence in order to vanquish this heathen."

    "Instill my body with your divine gust, and smite the foe that I wholly distrust."

    "[Spellswords of Ruination: Divine Art]."

    "[Zephyrus Tribtion]!"

    Swinging his sword down, the de quickly touched the ground, only being a couple of centimeters away from actually touching Wilhelm. Seeing this, the bystanders could not help but wonder if Aurus was putting up a facade all this time. Though, that thought quickly dispelled as the sky started to rumble in response to his words.

    Rumble¡­

    At that instant, a great portion of the FP Aurus had stored in order for [Pseudo-

    Animate Ascension] to continue being active was quickly consumed, slightly catching Aurus off guard. But soon after, he could not help but look up at the sky as the clouds above them started to part into two. Not long after, the sun that seemed to bring life into the world quickly transformed into a massive green ball of energy, infused to the brim with the element of Wind.

    Psh!

    Without anyone being able to react to what happened next, the green ball of energy quickly shot down a ray of green light that seemed to be amplified by the buffs that Aurus had activated beforehand. Naturally, what happened next was pure chaos.

    Bang!

    As the ray of green light collided with Wilhelm''s body, the barrier shattered in less than an instant as arge shockwave spread throughout the surroundings, sting the bystanders, as well as Aurus, away. Even Argentum and the others were not spared from this, only being able to stabilize themselves after colliding with a tall building some tens of meters away.

    After about ten seconds or so, the ray of green light disappeared as an arrogant harrumph could be heard throughout the area. Hearing that, Aurus gradually stood up and bowed towards the sky, knowing very well that he had actually called a god. Of course, he did not know how the skill had the ability to do so as he was still an Inanimate, yet as the god was here, he still had to show respect.

    Eventually, everything settled down as the bystanders gradually came back to where both Aurus and Wilhelm were. As for Dalton and Zeldrion, who were far closer to the st, they actually arrived earlier. After all, they were both Rank 9 ss holders, with thetter finally grasping the requirement needed to ascend to a higher existence level.

    Quickly conjuring up a barrier, Dalton watched as the dust surrounding the two settle down, instantly noticing that Aurus was sitting down on the ground, watching the dust around Wilhelm to settle down. Though, at this moment, the aura surrounding Aurus was far weaker than what he had experienced so far. In fact, he even had a hunch that he would be able to kill Aurus in his current state.

    However, those thoughts were quickly stopped as Wilhelm was finally shown to the masses, instantly eliciting gasps from many people around them. Well, that was because¡­Wilhelm was dead.

    With his lower torso entirely vaporized, while only a quarter of his upper torso and his head remained, it would be no surprise for one toe to the conclusion that a Transcendent had just died under the hands of an Inanimate. Surprisingly, even Dalton was visibly shaken as he saw the aftermath of the attack, prompting him to slowly turn his head as he looked at Zeldrion. But, rather than seeing an enraged Zeldrion wanting to enact revenge, he instead saw Zeldrion calmly staring, as if it was just natural for something like this to happen.

    Just before Dalton could ask him why, Zeldrion could not help but chuckle as he muttered, "It seems he has survived."

    "Survived? What do you mean survi¡ª" Before Dalton could finish his words, he noticed that Wilhelm''s seemingly mangled corpse started to wriggle. Soon, a great burst of silver light emanated from his body as the silver light transformed into the parts he had lost from the attack. About a minuteter, Wilhelm was back to normal, as if he hadn''t received any attack in the first ce¡­if not for the fact that he was now mostly naked.

    "[Glistening Resurrection]. That''s the skill I bet my life on when I saw your attack," Wilhelm started to talk, slowly walking towards Aurus as he quickly put on a set of clothes from a rift he summoned. "Fortunately, that bet paid off and I still live."

    Now standing in front of Aurus, he then asked, "In any case, I''ve lost a great portion of my strength from that ordeal. Would you still like to continue or would you like me to concede?"

    In response, Aurus stared at him for a bit before letting out a chuckle.

    "How about we continue?"

    "I thought you''d never ask."

    We are very close to the end of the novel. For those that have stayed with me all this time, I thank you from the very bottom of my heart.

 Chapter 421 Inevitable Defeat

    Chapter 421 Inevitable Defeat

    After Aurus asked him if they wanted their fight to continue, Wilhelm could not help but let out a light chuckle, having a better impression of the being in front of him. Nevertheless, as the being in front of him was a crucial part of something the king of the Seraph Kingdom wanted to, that did not mean that he would ck off in his duty.

    With that in mind, he distanced himself from Aurus, allowing him to tap into copious amounts of energy that existed in the surroundings as his body started to faintly glow a silver light. At this moment, he had discarded the thought of using his domain. Well, to be more exact, he had discarded the thought of using his domain externally. After all, the moment when a domain was at its strongest was when¡­ it was used on the person itself.

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    In just a few seconds, the aura Wilhelm was exuding had returned to what it was from before Aurus had unleashed his devastatingly strong first move. Soon after, it exceeded that, prompting Aurus to let out a light chuckle, as if he had no worries in his mind right now. In any case, that did not mean that he would just take the opponent''s attack as is. Unlike his opponent, which was strong in offense and defense, he was more or less the essence of a ss cannon. A single hit at his current state was more than enough to kill him.

    ''Fortunately, my FP has fully recovered,'' he inwardly thought, instantly activating [Spirit World] as a domain manifested around him, condensing the energy in the surroundings. Seeing this domain, a great portion of the bystanders could not help but have the urge to barge into the barrier and train there, getting the feeling that they would easily get stronger once they were in it.

    However, they were barred from entering thanks to the barrier Dalton had quickly conjured after Aurus''s first attack. Speaking of Dalton, a magic circle was currently in front of his right hand, sending a thin strand of green energy that was being absorbed by Wilhelm''s body. Seeing how the magic circle was connected to his grandfather, Zeldrion could not help but look at Dalton and ask, "Are you healing him?"

    "But of course," Dalton replied, sporting a solemn expression as he continued, "After the first attack by that Verdante guy, I instantly thought that the only chance we would have against a monster like that was if our participant was at their peak condition."

    "Now that I think about it, why are they allowing a third party to interfere with their battle?" he muttered soon after, not knowing that the two of them did not care as to whether a third party interfered or not. In fact, it would be to Aurus''s advantage if a third party appeared to interfere their battle. However, that did not happen at all, allowing Wilhelm to continue building up strength as his body was now the color of light metal.

    As for Aurus, he was preparing for the oing attack. After all, he was still an X-

    grade Inanimate. If not for the fact that he had a skill like [Pseudo-Animate Ascension], he would have already been killed multiple times over just from the sheer difference of stats alone.

    "[Grand Aegis]."

    "[Supreme Deification]."

    "[Sole Entity]."

    "[Imprable Shield of Nil]."

    "[Soul Transcendence]."

    Whoosh!

    With these five skills activated in quick session, he was as prepared as he could be for the attack that was about toe. At this moment, he could not help but wonder why he did not invest more time in learning and enhancing defense techniques. In fact, he could not help but recall the time he had discarded that invincibility skill he had before he waged war against Chonk. Right now, he could not help but think of his past self as an utter fool.

    ''Then again, that doesn''t change the oue of this battle,'' he muttered inwardly, taking a quick nce at Argentum and hispanions, situated slightly far away from the barrier. From what he could see from his perspective, Argentum was bawling his eyes out due to great sadness. On the other hand, Herellia and Horell were there to console him, wondering what was wrong with him. There were also two more people that apanied the three of them, but Aurus only barely knew them, so he didn''t think of them that much.

    ''Please don''t forget the thing that I want you to fulfill, Argentum,'' he thought, letting out an inward sigh as he recalled the string of thoughts he had sent Argentum a while ago. Now that he had time to think about it as Wilhelm was preparing for his attack, he could not help but find it a bit silly, useless even.

    ''In any case, doing something like that would probably be for the better good.''

    Fwoosh!

    Just as Aurus was about to continue mulling over the various things he had done so far in his life, the aura emanating from Wilhelm''s body had reached great heights, only paling to the aura Aurus emanated while he was at his peak. In any case, Aurus was certain that the next move Wilhelm would unleash had the potential to tten a great part of the continent, just like his move beforehand.

    Standing up, Aurus looked at Wilhelm, who had silver-gray mes covering his entire body, save for his two eyes. Letting out a light sigh, he asked him, "Is it possible for me to know the name of the move you''re going to use against me?"

    "I don''t see a problem with that," Wilhelm chuckled as he responded. Clenching his right fist as the silver-gray mes surrounding his body congregated towards it, he then told Aurus, "Although it''s still an iplete technique that has many problems in terms of usage, it''s still the strongest technique in my arsenal that could probably be equal to the attack you used before. Speaking of which, what''s the name of the technique you used earlier?"

    "Zephyrus Tribtion," Aurus sinctly replied.

    "An overbearing name, but a well-deserved one." Wilhelm nodded after hearing Aurus''s answer. Taking in a deep breath, the silver-gray mes around his right fist soon condensed into a small ball, mimicking the sun above their heads. Slightly grinning, he then told Aurus, "While making this technique of mine, I thought about having it head towards one extreme, an extreme that would make someone change their mind about fighting me once they get a taste of it."

    "Sure, the reasoning might sound like something a teenager would dream up of, but the intent in this technique is as real as it could be," he continued, cocking his fist backward before punching it out towards Aurus. In less than an instant, the small silver-gray sun at the end of his right fist quickly transformed into a ray, simr to the ray of green light that had attacked Wilhelm sometime ago.

    "[Ephemeral Metanoia]!"

    "[Pseudo-Animate Ascension]!"

    Whoosh!

    Just as the ray of light had collided with the barrier conjured around Aurus thanks to [Grand Aegis], the barrier instantly hardened by a thousandfold as Aurus''s existence level was temporarily brought out to the Pseudo-Animate level. Nevertheless, even with the buffs he had activated increasing his stats even further, the ray of light was still able to pierce through the barrier, quickly making its way to Aurus''s body.

    Bang!

    As the ray of light was powered by the strength of a Rank 3 Transcendent, Aurus''s body stood no chance at all. Fighting against a Rank 9 Animate was still feasible through certain means, like having multiple buffs activated while the other party was being debilitated. However, even if he had crippled a Transcendent''s strength even slightly, there was still no point.

    The gulf between an Inanimate and a Transcendent was just that big.

    "[Heavenly Rejuvenation]!"

    Of course, Aurus wouldn''t let his body be destroyed just like that, hastily spamming his healing skill as his body reformed every once in a while. Surprisingly, while that was happening, he also redirected a small part of the energy from the ray towards his mind, using it to eradicate the primal instinct that had created this mess in the first ce.

    Unsurprisingly, the primal instinct went away with a poof, briefly celebrating his freedom from the primal instinct as he thanked himself that he had the [Hexatasking] skill. With that now gone, he had returned all of his attention towards the ray of light, spamming [Heavenly Rejuvenation] after [Heavenly Rejuvenation] just so he didn''t die.

    At this point, it had turned into a war of attrition, making those watching wonder whether it would be the ray of light that would first run out of energy, or Aurus. Unfortunately for Aurus, just as he thought that he had found a sort of equilibrium while resisting against the ray of light, he had sapped every bit of SP in his body, basically rendering all of his buffs obsolete.

    However, he did not die.

    "[Lesser Fate Maniption]!"

    Poof!

    As if it was magic, the ray of light, which seemed intent on making sure that Aurus''s existence from the face of this world waspletely wiped out, dissipated into thin air. To others, it looked like the attack Wilhelm threw at Aurus was a lie all this time.

    However, for those who had keen senses or those that were of high rank, they knew that something greater was at y here. Seeing what had just happened, Zeldrion could not help but put on a solemn expression, while Dalton could not help but lightly frown, muttering, "Thews of fate¡­ have been moved."

    Even Felix and Charisa, who did not seem that strong in the grand scheme of things, could not help but be silent as they looked at Argentum, wondering how his original body had touched upon thews of fate. In fact, Argentum, who had been crying all this time, decided to stop as he watched it in silence. Although there was a hint of expectation in his mind when he saw this, when he remembered the string of thoughts that were sent to him a while ago by Aurus, he could not help but be sad once more.

    Andst but not the least, Wilhelm could not help but react as well, looking at Aurus for a short bit with surprise before letting out a loud cackle. "Who knew I''d face against someone who had control over fate?"

    In response, Aurus let out an awkward chuckle, saying in response, "To be honest, I never expected this technique of mine to have such great effect. I''ve never tried it on something like this before."

    Indeed, Aurus had never tried dispelling an attack using [Lesser Fate Maniption] before. Of course, he knew that the skill would allow him to bend the rules of fate in order for it to proceed as he wished. However, he did not know the extent of what ''Lesser'' was. Though, from what he had just seen, ''Lesser'' seemed to epass a wider range than he had initially expected.

    After staring at each other for a while in silence, Wilhelm decided to take the initiative and ask Aurus, "So, are we going to continue onto our second move? Or¡­?"

    "There''s no need for the remaining moves," Aurus replied, letting out a light sigh as he sat down on the ground, looking at Wilhelm before saying, "I concede. You win."

    Woooooo!!!!

    After hearing those wordse out of Aurus''s mouth, almost all of the bystanders could not help but cheer for the person that had fought against him, the guardian of their kingdom, Wilhelm Seraph. Naturally, there were those that reacted differently, such as Argentum and his group. At this moment, they were looking at the sight in front of them in great silence, not expecting such an oue at all.

    As for Dalton and Zeldrion, they looked at the oue of the battle with slight surprise in their expressions, wondering why Aurus decided to concede. Then again, the current results favored them, especially Zeldrion as he could not help but recall the idea he had once Dalton made him realize that he was fighting against an Inanimate.

    14:03

    However, before they even had the chance to react, an aura that did not pale to Wilhelm''s soon covered the entire kingdom, instantly making everyone there feel like they were being pushed down to the ground. In fact, some of them had even sumbed to it, kneeling or either unconscious.

    Wondering where the source of this aura came from, Wilhelm looked at his surroundings, only to notice a being with gray skin nonchntly hovering above the barrier covering both him and Aurus. With a serious expression on his face, he looked at the being and asked, "And what brings someone like you here to this kingdom?"

    "Erudis?"

 Chapter 422

    Chapter 422: Unsessful Negotiations

    ¡°You know very well why I¡¯vee here, Wilhelm,¡± Erudis indifferently replied, staring at the green being that sat near where Wilhelm was standing. Sensing the aura the green being radiated, which was that of eptance, he could not help but feel a tinge of pain as he thought about the divinations he had made before arriving here.

    ¡®Is there really no way for him to escape this?¡¯ he muttered inwardly, thinking about the idea he had while making his way to the continent. Letting out a light sigh, he decided to go with it, looking at Wilhelm before saying, ¡°I want Verdante toe back with me.¡±

    Hearing those words resound from this gray being hovering above them, most of the people could not help but think that the guardian of their kingdom should agree it, lest another cmity befalls their kingdom like Aurus did. In fact, Argentum and the others seemed to view this scenario from a positive note, seeing how there was a chance for Aurus to free from the clutches of the Seraph Kingdom.

    However, as Wilhelm had already known how the Spiriveritas operated after being the kingdom¡¯s guardian for a long time, he did not follow the thoughts of the masses, instead responding with a slightly serious tone, ¡°And what if I don¡¯t want him toe back with you?¡±

    ¡°Then, we could onlye to apromise,¡± Erudis sinctly responded, the aura surrounding him quickly expanding to cover the entire kingdom as it increased in strength. At this point, only those that were above Rank 5 Animate could endure against the pressure. Even Argentum, Herellia, and Horell weren¡¯t exempt from this. Fortunately, they were protected by the energy of both Felix and Eleanor at the veryst second, allowing the three to see the next scenario unfold.

    Seeing as a great portion of the people in the kingdom were now unconscious, Wilhelm could not help but feel a hint of rage welling up inside him, wanting to vent it out on Erudis by pummeling him to bits. However, he controlled himself, knowing very well that he had the means to make him and the kingdom disappear with a single move.

    ¡®In any case, I was kind of expecting him to do something like this once I declined,¡¯ he thought, recalling how the Spiriveritas operated. From what he could remember, the Spiriveritas would only use intimidation unless they had a kill order. Naturally, to keep all of the Spiriveritae in check, the kill order would have to be approved by the other Spiriveritae. Even the first Spiriveritas, Erudis, was not exempt from this rule.

    Then again, he was the one who made the rule in the first ce.

    ¡°So, what are you willing to do in exchange for your Verdante¡¯s freedom?¡± Wilhelm asked after a while, taking note that Zeldrion, Dalton, and all the important individuals in the kingdom were still conscious.

    ¡°I¡­¡± Hearing that, Erudis went silent for a bit, thinking twice once more over the idea he had while he was making his way to the Maerr-viki continent. Naturally, he thought that the idea was incredibly dumb from a certain perspective. But as it stood right now, it was probably his best shot¡­ unless if he wanted all of the Spiriveritae to agree on a kill order. That was something he wouldn¡¯t do unless necessary.

    ¡°I¡­ am willing to trade,¡± Erudis finally told Wilhelm, inwardly letting out a sigh of relief as he believed that the idea would have a high chance of working.

    ¡°Trade, eh? What are you willing to give me?¡± Wilhelm asked in response, looking at Aurus soon after. At the moment, Aurus was as listless as any being could possibly be, seemingly epting everything that was happening. In fact, Wilhelm could not help but wonder why he wasn¡¯t trying to escape, though it did not take long for him to realize why.

    It only clicked in his mind right now that there were two beings that stood at an existence level far greater than him, which meant Aurus had no chance of escaping either way. Indeed, Wilhelm thought that Aurus considered Erudis as a being of higher existence, even though they were at the same level of existence. Well, he wasn¡¯t really certain that Aurus thought of his peer that way, but from how things looked right now, he could only think of it that way.

    While Wilhelm was pondering over how Aurus seemed to be epting everything that was happening, Erudis opened up a rift beside him, allowing a small stone to drop in his hand. Once one looked at it closely, one would quickly notice that there were multiple sword marks of various depths and lengths on it. Normally, such a stone would be incredibly useless. However, this stone Erudis held contained the intent and will of multiple swordsmen from multiple generations, easily making Wilhelm think twice as to whether to keep Aurus a hostage or not.

    ¡°I am willing to trade this Millennium de Stone for Aurus¡¯s freedom,¡± Erudis told him. ¡°You know very well how precious this Millennium de Stone is. Even for us beings that do not specialize in the sword, this would allow us to bring our skills up to the peak of what a mortal can achieve, possibly even transcending mortality itself.¡±

    ¡°As for those that specialize in the sword, like your descendant over there, you know very well what it means,¡± he continued. At that moment, Wilhelm looked at his grandson Zeldrion, who was trying his best to say no. Although Zeldrion truly wanted the stone for himself so he wouldn¡¯t have problems ascending to the level of Transcendent, for some reason, every fiber of his being screamed out to not take it, as if epting it would be akin to going against fate.

    Thus, even though he looked defeated, Zeldrion shook his head at Wilhelm, to which thetter lightly nodded, seemingly making a difficult decision himself. Looking back at Erudis, he then calmly told him, ¡°I decline the offer.¡±

    ¡°Hoh?¡± Raising his eyebrow in curiosity, Erudis quickly threw the Millennium de Stone back into the rift before bringing out something that would be more useful for more people. In less than an instant, a stone that radiated energy equivalent to a hundred Wilhelms standing at the same spot appeared in Erudis¡¯s hand as he said, ¡°How about this? I¡¯ll give you this Rank 4 Transcendent Stone in exchange for Aurus¡¯s freedom. Surely you wouldn¡¯t reject this, right?¡±

    Seeing how he was being offered something far more precious than before, especially something that would not just benefit him but the entire kingdom as well, Wilhelm truly wanted to ept the offer. In fact, even his grandson urged him to ept it at this point. However, there was something inside him telling him not to do so. It was as if it was telling him that he¡¯d rather die than ept the offer.

    With that, he let out a long sigh, shaking his head as he told Erudis, ¡°Unfortunately, I still can¡¯t ept the offer.¡±

    ¡°Remember to not bite off more than you chew, Wilhelm,¡± Erudis could not help but say in response. ¡°But since you¡¯re so adamant in ripping me off, then I humbly ept.¡±

    Whoosh!

    At the very instant Erudis was finished speaking, the stone in his hand was reced with an evenrger stone that seemed to glisten under the sun. In fact, the stone was radiating enough energy that even a million, perhaps even a hundred million Wilhelms could not match up to. ¡°If you still don¡¯t ept this offer, then there must be something wrong with your head. A Rank 7 Transcendent Stone, specially procured from the Transcendent World itself. I had to wait for over 50 thousand years just for this piece to be delivered safely.¡±

    ¡°Graaaaaahhhh! When I say no¡­ then that means¡­ no¡­!¡± Surprisingly, by the time Erudis had brought out the Rank 7 Transcendent Stone, Wilhelm was about to ept the offer, only for a voice other than him to speak out. Naturally, Wilhelm was quite confused as to where that voice appeared since it was not him who said that. However, after noticing that his mouth was currently opened, he could not help but fear that there really was something inside him telling him to reject the offer. With that, he went silent, using his energy to check his body for any foreign entities.

    On the other hand, Erudis scratched his head as he wondered if his divinations would actually turn out to be true. Naturally, he had his ways to change fate, even slightly. However, at this moment, he had a feeling that if he changed this fate, something would gue the world which would make him regret changing fate in the first ce. Seeing as even fate itself seemed to be on the side of going against his idea of trading for freedom, Erudis decided to bring out onest item. If he got lucky, then that would be that. If not¡­ then let fate take its course.

    Snap!

    With a quick snap of the finger, therge Rank 7 Transcendent Stone was changed for a small pearl. However, when those that were still awake looked at it with great intent, they instantly felt like they were looking at a Transcendent that stood far above their kingdom¡¯s guardian, Wilhelm. Even Wilhelm himself could not help but get the urge to kneel down in front of this small pearl just from the sheer aura it exuded.

    Seeing how it was involuntarily making everyone kneel on the ground, Erudis quickly covered it with his energy before saying, ¡°Here is my final offer. A Rank 5 Transcendent Core. Unlike Transcendent Stones, which rely on your effort to absorb, a Transcendent Core would allow you to inherit the experience, skills, and proficiencies of the person that formed this core. In other words, if you absorb it, you¡¯ll instantly turn into a Rank 5 Transcendent. Even a mortal with no ss would turn into a Rank 5 Transcendent once they absorb this.¡±

    Naturally, Zeldrion and the others wanted their guardian to ept the offer, knowing very well how beneficial it would be for the kingdom. However, just like Wilhelm, there was a strong feeling of rejection towards the idea, eventually making them think otherwise. As for Wilhelm, he quickly found out that the voice would only appear if he ever had the thoughts of saying yes to the offer. Not wanting to take his chances on eradicating the foreign entity, if it even existed inside his body in the first ce, he let out a long sigh as he replied, ¡°I sincerely apologize¡­ but I have to decline.¡±

    Hearing Wilhelm¡¯s response, Erudis let out a long sigh as well, muttering to himself, ¡°It seems fate truly wants this to happen, huh. Then¡­ so be it.¡±

    Storing the small pearl back where it belonged, Erudis retracted the aura he had extended back as he looked at Wilhelm, then at Aurus. After that, with a slightly forlorn tone, he said, ¡°From this day onward, Verdante is no longer a part of the Spiriveritas Assembly. Although he is still a Spiriveritas in essence, he is no longer one of us.¡±

    Rumble¡­ rumble¡­

    As if the world seemed to say something in response to Erudis¡¯s words, the skies rumbled for a short bit as Erudis made his way back to Mercuria Continent, wondering how he¡¯d tell the other Spiriveritae regarding this matter.

    As for Wilhelm and the others that were awake, they stood where they were in silence, wondering whether to be happy or not. In the end, all of them let out a light sigh as Wilhelm looked at Aurus and said, ¡°Follow me.¡±

    In response, Aurus stood up and nodded, following Wilhelm back to the royal pce of the Seraph Kingdom as Dalton dispelled the barrier surrounding them. Soon after, a great portion of the high-ranking mages from the Arcana Tower appeared before him, to which hemanded that they should help out in the recovery efforts of the kingdom.

    Argentum and the others, on the other hand, looked at the aftermath of the scenario with a forlorn expression, wondering if they even made a difference in the first ce. Of course, the one most affected by this result was Argentum, who bawled his eyes yet again after seeing that there was no hope for Aurus to be set free. However, surprisingly, once the others tried to console him for what had happened, he quickly returned to normal as a solemn expression appeared on his face.

    ¡°Felix, teleport us back to Verdant Breeze Town. Our job here is over,¡± he said all of a sudden, slightly surprising the others. Nevertheless, they were d that Argentum was quickly over what had happened.

    But he wasn¡¯t.

    Instead, he remembered the string of thoughts that Aurus had sent him before he had fully epted his fate. As he restrained from going on a rampage, Aurus¡¯s words resounded in his mind.

    ¡°Argentum, if you¡¯re getting this, I¡¯ve fully decided to surrender to the enemy I¡¯m fighting against. After all, an Inanimate fighting against a Transcendent for prolonged periods of time is highly impossible.¡±

    ¡°With that, I hope you eventually get over this and use my memories and the system to its greatest potential. I also hope you grow strong enough to surpass even Transcendents, perhaps even those at the Divinity level.¡±

    ¡°By then, I hope you find the culprit of this whole ordeal and take revenge for me.¡±

    ¡°For now¡­¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll be waiting.¡±  <!--

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 Chapter 423

    Chapter 423: Discussing the Future

    Maerr-viki Continent, inside the Seraph Kingdom.

    A couple of days have passed since the eventful battle between the being that called himself The Great Cmity and the Transcendent level guardian of the Seraph Kingdom. In a surprising turn of events, rather than fight against the guardian of the kingdom until one of them died, the one called The Great Cmity eventually decided to surrender, prompting multiple of the bystanders to ponder as to what was going on in the being¡¯s head when he decided to end their fight that way.

    Nevertheless, as it was a rare asion for a fight of that scale to ever ur in their kingdom, or the entire continent even, a great portion of the masses went ahead and made sure to remember the fight in their own ways. May it be making novels, creating poems that would be told by bards over multiple cities, or forming works of art like paintings and statues that captured the feeling of the fight itself, these things had boomed in poprity within the territory of the Seraph Kingdom, with the kingdom itself even supporting it.

    As to why the kingdom had decided to support it, it was due to the massive amount of money that was needed to restore the various settlements that had been destroyed by The Great Cmity along its way to the Seraph Kingdom itself. After all, to build a small vige would already cost a great amount of gold coins, not to mention towns and cities, which were viges of far grander scale.

    Unsurprisingly, the capital, which had received its own fair share of damage from the nigh cataclysmic event, had been able to repair the damage it had received, thanks to the help of the Arcana Tower. Of course, the royal family watching over the kingdom also made sure that the capital was repaired as soon as possible, lest the other kingdoms of the continent decide to strike their capital while they had one knee down.

    While all of that was happening, two incredibly powerful figures looked at each other in silence as they sat in one of the multiple prestigious halls of the Seraph Kingdom¡¯s royal pce. On one side was a man that exuded all of the characteristics that a great ruler would have. On the other was a man that exuded the same qualities. In fact, if one looked closely, the two looked simr to one another.

    ¡°So, how¡¯s the recovery efforts of the kingdom going, Zeldrion?¡± As Wilhelm took a sip from the cup of warm milk that was prepared for him, he asked this question to his grandson.

    ¡°Fortunately, with the help of the Arcana Tower, as well as Dalton, we were able to restore the capital back to its original state before the fight happened within a day.¡± Not beating around the bush, Zeldrion quickly replied. ¡°As for the settlements that the Inanimate had destroyed while making its way to the kingdom, the cities would take highest priority, followed by the towns, then the viges.¡±

    ¡°To think that an Inanimate could unleash such levels of power. A Spiriveritas is truly a terrifying existence once left alone,¡± Wilhelm could not help but say in response, slightly shuddering over the possibility of Erudis having a kill order when they met. It was just his luck that Erudis had arrived at the continent without consulting the others. If not, then it was a given that the Seraph Kingdom would have ceased to exist on that day.

    ¡°In any case, I¡¯d suggest focusing on the viges first. Although all of the people in the viges that were destroyed had been killed by that Inanimate, it would allow us to foster better rtions with the people,¡± he said soon after, to which Zeldrion could only nod in response.

    After looking at each other in silence for a bit more, Wilhelm eventually let out a sigh before saying, ¡°Talking to you like this reminds me of how tiring it is to keep up a formal facade. Don¡¯t you think it would be better for us to rx?¡±

    ¡°You know, you could¡¯ve said that earlier, Grandfather,¡± Zeldrion said in response, letting out a light chuckle. Soon after, Wilhelm let out a bit ofughter as well. A few secondster, with the atmosphere in the hall they were in now more rxed than before, Wilhelm went ahead and asked his grandson, ¡°So, how much of the Principle you obtained have you grasped?¡±

    ¡°Around half,¡± Zeldrion sinctly replied. ¡°After all, it¡¯s only been a couple of days since I hade to recognize that I¡¯ve obtained a Principle. I think I¡¯ll be able to fully master it within a month or so and ascend to the Transcendent level after that.¡±

    ¡°Sounds about right.¡± Wilhelm nodded in response. ¡°When I was trying to break through to the Transcendent level back then, it took me around a month as well to fully master my control over the Principle. I think you¡¯d be able to shave off a week and a half if you focus all of your time towards mastering your Principle.¡±

    ¡°You know very well I can¡¯t do that, Grandfather.¡± Zeldrion wryly smiled. ¡°As the current king of the Seraph Kingdom, it¡¯s still my duty to oversee the various problems that the kingdom faces, even if I can relegate some of them to other people. Naturally, if I were able to focus all of my time into mastering my Principle, then I¡¯m certain I would be able to master it within two weeks.¡±

    ¡°All the more reason you should bring that war for the throne forward, Zeldrion,¡± Wilhelm could not help but say in response. ¡°Once one of your children take your position as king, you wouldn¡¯t have to worry about managing the kingdom anymore, allowing you to concentrate all of your energy towards ascending to the Transcendent level.¡±

    Hearing that, Zeldrion could not help but ponder over it for a bit in silence, taking a few sips from the cup of tea ced in front of him. Eventually, he shook his head, saying, ¡°Although I could not agree more to your proposition, I¡¯d rather stick to the previous schedule I¡¯ve already nned for the war for the throne. After all, what¡¯s dying my ascension to the Transcendent level by half a year going to do? At most, I would have a stronger foundation, making the tribtion to the Transcendent level slightly harder.¡±

    ¡°If I decide to move the event forward, then that would make it harder for me to find out who among my children truly think of the betterment of the kingdom,¡± he continued. ¡°So far, I¡¯ve already found out that one of my children has decided to collude with an opposing kingdom. Don¡¯t you think that¡¯s a bit interesting?¡±

    ¡°Truly an intriguing situation,¡± Wilhelm said in response, rubbing his chin soon after. ¡°In any case, you¡¯re the king, so I won¡¯t meddle into matters like that too much.¡±

    ¡°However¡­ what are you nning to do with the Inanimate?¡± he asked soon after, prompting Zeldrion to stand up from his seat with a light smile on his face.

    After a while, Zeldrion started to head towards another part of the pce, prompting Wilhelm to finish the cup of milk served for him before quickly following behind his grandson. As they were not in a race against time, they took quite a while to arrive at the destination Zeldrion had in mind. Surprisingly, they stopped at the lowest underground floor of the royal pce.

    On it, one would see a room filled to the brim with amenities that would allow a person to live their lives with great contentment, giving the person the feeling that they did not even have to set foot on the outside world. In it was a being that had skin the color of jade green, idyllically looking out through a screen that was connected to the outside world through magic.

    As the door to the room was opened by Zeldrion, with Wilhelm following behind him, Aurus could not help but look at the people that had entered his room, radiating a faint aura of happiness as he could not help but say, ¡°Who knew I would get visitors at this point in time?¡±

    ¡°Were we disturbing you, Verdante?¡± Zeldrion could not help but ask in response as Wilhelm closed the door to the room. Hearing the king¡¯s question, Aurus shook his head, saying, ¡°To be honest, I would not mind staying in this ce forever if that were possible.¡±

    ¡°But since you¡¯vee here, it seems it¡¯s time for you to bare your true fangs at me.¡±

    ¡°You have quite keen senses, Verdante,¡± Wilhelm said in response, lightly sighing soon after. ¡°In any case, the reason why I captured you in the first ce was not because of some purpose I had in mind. Instead, you should ask my grandson over here.¡±

    After Wilhelm was finished talking, Aurus went ahead and focused his attention towards Zeldrion. ¡°So? What are you nning to do with me?¡±

    ¡°We¡­ err¡­¡± As Zeldrion tried to think about how he would respond to Aurus¡¯s question, he could not help but twiddle his thumbs. Eventually, he decided to get straight to the point, saying with a light sigh, ¡°We n to turn you into the main material of a weapon we aim to forge.¡±

    ¡°Well, I was already expecting that much,¡± Aurus said in response, his tone indifferent, slightly catching the two off guard. Seeing as the aura surrounding him changed to that of eptance, Zeldrion could not help but say, ¡°I don¡¯t know what came over me while we were shing des, prompting me to think up of this idea, but let me just say that I want to apologize to you in advance.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s fine, it¡¯s fine. After all, I¡¯ve destroyed quite a lot of your settlements. Being used as a material for a weapon can be considered as my just desserts,¡± Aurus replied. ¡°Can I ask you a few questions regarding the weapon?¡±

    ¡°We¡¯re all ears,¡± Wilhelm quickly said in response, prompting Aurus to nod as he asked, ¡°Once I¡¯ve been forged into a weapon, where will I be used?¡±

    ¡°You shall be the supreme heirloom of the Seraph family, being the de that would always apany the ruler of the Seraph Kingdom,¡± Zeldrion replied. ¡°But before then, you shall be the grand reward for the victor in the war for the throne being held in the near future.¡±

    Nodding in response to Zeldrion¡¯s words, Aurus then asked, ¡°Will I be treated badly?¡±

    ¡°Of course not,¡± Zeldrion answered once more. ¡°As you¡¯re the supreme heirloom, it would be better to say that no one would dare to treat you badly. After all, your soul would still remain once you¡¯ve been forged into a weapon.¡±

    ¡°Alright, here¡¯s my final question,¡± Aurus said soon after, eliciting a hint ofughter from the two as he was finished asking.

    ¡°Will the forging process hurt?¡±

    ¡°Not at all.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re totally lying.¡±

    ¡°Hehehe¡­ who knows?¡±

    ¡­

    Celestial ne, inside Kurohana¡¯s ne.

    Seeing that the image on the orb in front of her was now of Aurus confronting the higher-ups of the Seraph Kingdom, Kurohana could not help but let out a loud cackle in great joy, eventually bellowing with a tone of glee, ¡°Finally! He¡¯s finallying back to me!¡±

    Feeling incredibly giddy from the sheer happiness she felt, she could not help but move around a bit, even going so far as to throw a punch with all of her power into it. Unfortunately, a couple of gxies were in the trajectory of her punch, with their final result utterly decimated into nothingness.

    Sensing that, Shirohana, Kurohana¡¯s clone, could not help but open her eyes and say with a slight frown, ¡°Can¡¯t you control your excitement?¡±

    ¡°You think I can control this happiness I¡¯m feeling? I¡¯ve waited for quite a long time, okay? I¡¯ve waited for around over a month for this to wrap up. Any longer and I would¡¯ve probably lost it,¡± Kurohana said in response before pointing at her clone. ¡°In any case, don¡¯t lie to me, Shirohana. I can see for a fact that you¡¯re just raring to go out and use the weapon.¡±

    ¡°Alright, alright, you caught me,¡± Shirohana replied, letting out a chuckle. After a bit, she then asked Kurohana, ¡°How long do you think it would take for the process to finish?¡±

    ¡°At thetest, we¡¯ll be able to obtain it tomorrow,¡± she replied. Factoring in the time difference between the world of Erudinia and the Celestial ne, with one day being equivalent to over a week, this was the conclusion she had arrived at. ¡°They have to gather their best people, after all.¡±

    ¡°In any case, we¡¯ll finally have something against those¡ª¡± Before Kurohana could finish her sentence, an orb appeared in front of her, showing a mature woman that emanated the feeling of darkness. In fact, it wouldn¡¯t be a lie to say that she was the epitome of darkness.

    ¡°Kurohana, are you busy right now?¡± the woman asked.

    ¡°Not really, Nix. Why?¡± Kurohana asked in response.

    ¡°We¡¯ve obtained reports from our scouting team that there seems to be a small skirmish at one of the outer regions of the Celestial ne,¡± Nix replied. ¡°If left ignored, this small skirmish could possibly serve as an entry point for the demons. In other words, we¡¯re basically giving them a foothold if we ignore it.¡±

    ¡°In other words, you want me to join in on the fight? Do they have a True Demon God on their side?¡± Kurohana could not help but ask soon after.

    ¡°No, but one of the Depraved Deities could have the chance to transform into one,¡± Nix answered. ¡°We¡¯re just trying to stay on the safe side here, Kurohana. After all, you already have experience in fighting against demons.¡±

    ¡°So, what would it be, Kurohana? Would you like to join?¡±

    ¡°Hmm¡­ although I would have normally epted your offer, I¡¯d have to decline right now. I have something specialing up, you see.¡±

    ¡°And what would that special something be?¡±

    ¡°Hehe~ That¡¯ll have to be a secret for now.¡±  <!--

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 Chapter 424

    Chapter 424: Forging

    Maerr-viki Continent, inside Verdant Breeze Town.

    A week has passed since the incident at the capital of Seraph Kingdom had urred. Being there to witness the whole ordeal firsthand, it could be said that Argentum had been tempered from a certain perspective, focusing on giving it his all in managing the town. In fact, he had be incredibly engrossed in managing the town to the point that not only did Herellia and Horell tell him to take a break from time to time, even Felix and the others asked him to stop for a bit and not be hasty in achieving results.

    Surprisingly, Argentum listened to them and went to rest for a day. However, he quickly regretted that decision as memories rted to the fight popped up in his mind, acting like a trauma that he could not escape from. Add in the fact that thest string of thoughts that Aurus sent to him still resounded even after all that, it was no surprise that Argentum wanted to distract himself.

    Then again, he was not actually distracting himself. Instead, he was following the words Aurus had told him to the letter, trying to use his authority as the leader of a town to find the culprit that involved Aurus in this entire problem. Naturally, while thinking up of ways to do so, he recalled how Aurus acted like a bloodthirsty killer back then, knowing very well that the normal Aurus wouldn¡¯t do something like that.

    Mulling over it for the past few days, he hade to the conclusion that a being at the Animate level had no abilities to do so, given how Aurus could fight against an Animate without a sweat without going all out. With that in mind, he thought about Transcendent level beings bing involved in this matter, perhaps even Divinity level beings. After all, that was what Aurus had told him through the thoughts he sent. Though, he was not sure if he was just basing it on the opponent he was fighting against.

    Nevertheless, as Transcendent and Divinity level beings were the most usible suspects in this whole problem, Argentum asked Felix and the others to disband the real-time informationwork they had established to track Aurus before he was captured by the kingdom. Although they were quite surprised to hear such an ordere from Argentum, with a couple of them even trying to persuade him to not do so, Argentum¡¯s will eventually won as those involved in the informationwork were paid.

    As it was an incredibly high-level informationwork that gave information every minute, it was no surprise that the amount of money they had to pay in the end was well over the initial cost they had in mind. In short, they had paid a total of 300 million gold coins to all of those involved. However, all of them did not even bat an eye or feel great shock from doing so. After all, they still had over a billion gold coins from the Rank 9 Mana Stone they sold, which sold for about 1.5 billion gold coins.

    At the moment, Argentum was inside the manor made for the leader of the town, gazing out of therge window in front of the desk he sat behind. Silently looking at the townspeople that had experienced a great improvement in their quality of life, he could not help but ponder as to whether it would be a good idea for him to inject all of the money they had earned from the Rank 9 Mana Stone into the town.

    At first, he thought of it as a good idea. However, once he thought about it for a bit longer, he decided otherwise. Although rapid improvements weren¡¯t unheard of, rapid improvements at the scale Argentum was thinking was more or less impossible. After all, all of the people that used to live in the town before the rapid improvement would feel a sort of culture shock, perhaps even think of it as a ship of Theseus situation. It wouldn¡¯t be a surprise if that was the impetus for them to move town, even if it would result in a better foundation for the new and improved town in the long run.

    With that, he wrote up a n to invest the gold they had into the town bit by bit, increasing the speed of improvement of their town by a good amount, but not too much where the townspeople may feel alienated. As he thought about this, he could not help butugh at the thought that his town would have amenities normally found in a city.

    And that¡¯s when it clicked.

    Standing up from his seat, Argentum quickly headed out of the manor with the help of movement boosting skills and spells, arriving at a part of town that had multiple people arranged in a formation. In other words, Argentum had arrived at where his town¡¯s military, the Tempest Regiment, stayed.

    ¡°All men, salute!¡± ude ordered as he saw Argentum arrive at their barracks, prompting all of those in formation to salute in unison. Seeing that, Argentum waved his hand down in response, allowing the men to rx as he told ude that he wanted to say something to him.

    Slightly confused as to why he was being called all of a sudden, ude still nodded in response as the two of them entered the barracks specifically made for instructors like ude. Then again, ude was the only instructor of the Tempest Regiment for now.

    ¡°So, why did Sir Argentume to the Tempest Regiment¡¯s barracks to talk with me?¡± ude could not help but ask. In response, Argentum looked at him and said with a solemn tone, ¡°I have a n in mind that would involve mobilizing the Tempest Regiment. You¡¯ll have to talk about this with themanders you¡¯ve assigned for the various divisions.¡±

    Pondering in silence for a bit, ude¡¯s eyes could not help but widen as he realized what Argentum was nning to do. ¡°Are you telling me that¡­ we¡¯re¡­?¡±

    ¡°Indeed.¡± Argentum nodded.

    ¡°It¡¯s time for Verdant Breeze Town to expand outwards and be a city.¡±

    ¡­

    Maerr-viki Continent, inside a certain hall in the Seraph Kingdom¡¯s royal pce.

    At the moment, multiple people were conversing with one another as they looked at the quickly built stage in front of them. Naturally, they were curious as to why a stage was in front of them, even though they were requested to enter the royal pce for another reason.

    To help in the forging of a weapon.

    With just one nce, one could see two types of people mingling with others in the hall. Naturally, the first type of people were the cksmiths. However, these cksmiths were not just any normal cksmith one would find at a town, toiling away as they hammered metal. Instead, all of these were cksmiths that had reached Rank 4 at the very least, showing that they had great proficiency with their profession.

    As for the other type of people in the hall, they were the mages. To be more specific, mages that were specialized in enchanting equipment. Unsurprisingly, Dalton had been requested by the kingdom toe as well, given how he was the Supreme Sage of the Arcana Tower, someone who knew all types of spells, even enchantment spells. Seeing as how the people were conversing with one another, he could not help but scratch his head, muttering, ¡°Well, ain¡¯t this a bother.¡±

    At another part of the hall was a man and a woman. The man sported a red robe thatplemented his handsome face and his thin ck-rimmed sses. As for the woman, she wore gray overalls that had soot and dust generallying from working near the forge. However, seeing as how there was next to no dirt on the woman¡¯s face, allowing her beauty to be entuated, it was apparent that she considered this event important.

    ¡°What do you think may be the reason why we were called here?¡± Kelsey could not help but ask Dane beside him.

    Coincidentally, just as Dane was about to respond that he did not know the answer either, a man that radiated an aura of great magnanimity had stepped on the stage, prompting him to point towards the man and tell her, ¡°It seems we¡¯ll find out very soon.¡±

    ¡°Ehem.¡± Clearing his throat to catch the attention of everyone in the hall, Zeldrion started to speak. ¡°I humbly wee all of our mages and cksmiths into the Seraph Kingdom¡¯s royal pce. However, I would like to apologize in advance that I am not able to hold a banquet for you. Naturally, that is because of the request I¡¯ve sent all of you.¡±

    Whoosh!

    As if they had rehearsed it in the first ce, a being with jade green skin appeared beside Zeldrion, seemingly out of thin air. At first, the people looked at the being that had appeared with slight confusion, only to be speechless as they now had an idea of what they were going to do.

    ¡°Right here beside me is Verdante, previously part of the Spiriveritas Assembly. As a Spiriveritas, he is an Inanimate in essence, specifically an X-grade Inanimate,¡± Zeldrion started to exin. ¡°Fortunately, he had consented to this beforehand, so let me exin what I specifically want you guys to do.¡±

    ¡°I want you¡­ to turn Verdante right here into the supreme heirloom of the royal family!¡± he bellowed, leaving all of the people silent for a bit before a great mor resounded throughout the hall. While the people were in chaos, wondering how that fight from before had birthed the current situation in front of them, Aurus could not help but say to Zeldrion, ¡°You really sure you want to turn me into a weapon? You know I could fight on the same level as Wilhelm, right?¡±

    ¡°Of course I do,¡± Zeldrion replied. ¡°But there¡¯s a nagging feeling inside me that tells me to turn you into a weapon, no matter what. Also, the kingdoms in the continent have signed a treaty to only have one being that could fight at the Transcendent level in their kingdoms at all times.¡±

    ¡°Well¡­ that¡¯s kind of suspicious, but I guess I have no choice but to follow the rules as well,¡± Aurus said in response before redirecting his attention towards the cksmiths and mages, who have seeminglye to a tacit agreement as to what they want to achieve.

    A few secondster, one of the more well-known cksmiths stepped forward and asked Zeldrion, ¡°King Zeldrion, is there enough space for us to work?¡±

    ¡°But of course.¡± Zeldrion nodded in response, snapping his fingers soon after. Hearing that, Dalton went ahead and cast a giant magic circle, covering the entire hall as multiple furnaces and anvils appeared out of nowhere. On top of that, all of the necessary items needed in forging were there. Of course, items needed for enchantment were also there as well.

    With the audience being at a loss for words from the sudden transformation, Zeldrion took this chance to say, ¡°We shall be transforming Verdante right here into a weapon that would grow alongside the user, as well as have multiple transformations that would allow the user to tap into greater power. All materials and items needed for the forging process shall be provided to you by the kingdom. And of course¡­¡±

    ¡°We¡¯ll pay you plenty afterwards,¡± he said, instantly motivating everyone as the cksmiths headed to their respective furnaces while the mages headed to their enchantment stations.

    Seeing this, Aurus could not help but ask, ¡°So, should I head to where the cksmiths are?¡±

    In response, Zeldrion shook his head as he replied, ¡°No. We¡¯ll have to transform your body into something that would bepatible for forging first.¡±

    ¡°Dalton,¡± he soon said, prompting a man that seemed bored toe up the stage.

    ¡°I better get something from this once this is done,¡± Dalton replied, the aura surrounding him giving off the feeling that he did not want to be here in the first ce.

    ¡°Oh, you don¡¯t have to worry about that,¡± Zeldrion chuckled as he replied. ¡°Once this is done, I¡¯ll give you ess to the entire royal library. Of course, only the sections that interest you.¡±

    ¡°You could¡¯ve said that earlier, you know?¡± In an instant, Dalton¡¯s mood had undergone a 180 degree turn as he enthusiastically told Aurus, ¡°Alright, Verdante. I shall be converting you into a special type of forging material. Note that this process may hurt a lot, so I hope you can endure it. Naturally, I shall try to reduce the pain you feel as much as possible.¡±

    ¡®¡­ Is this really gonna go well?¡¯ was thest thing Aurus thought to himself before the entire hall worked in full swing.  <!--

    -->

 Chapter 425

    Chapter 425: As Fate Ordains (Long Chapter)

    Celestial ne, inside Kurohana¡¯s ne.

    After Kurohana told Nix that she had something specialing up pretty soon, she focused all of her attention towards the orb in front of her, showing her the entire process that was happening to Aurus. Surprisingly, Shirohana, the clone that had most of her strength, had stopped meditating over the Law of Reincarnation, deciding to watch the entire forging process unfold with her original body.

    ¡°Don¡¯t you feel like they would craft an incredibly weak weapon from how they¡¯re using Aurus as a material?¡± Shirohana could not help but ask, looking at Kurohana with slight confusion.

    ¡°That¡¯s the goal,¡± Kurohana sinctly replied, her aura now simr to that of what a divine cksmith would normally have. ¡°What they¡¯re nning to create is a weapon that evolves alongside the user, as well as allows the user to tap more and more power from the weapon itself. In the terms used in Aurus¡¯s world, they¡¯re crafting an Evolving Ignition weapon.¡±

    ¡°Although you might think it¡¯s a bad thing, in the long run, such a weapon would be better for us to use,¡± she continued. ¡°If anything, the materials they¡¯re using right now are pretty high-tier, so it wouldn¡¯t make sense for the final result to be incredibly weak unless it¡¯s being used elsewhere.¡±

    ¡°I see¡­¡± As Shirohana was Kurohana¡¯s clone, it was no surprise that she understood where she wasing from. However, since Kurohana¡¯s strength was the thing that was mostly given to Shirohana, some of the terms her original body used unfortunately flew over her head. Nevertheless, she still got it with a few context clues.

    ¡°Now that I think about it, although the weapon would be fully forged down there, it¡¯s not really finished yet, right?¡± Shirohana asked once more, prompting Kurohana to lightly smile as she responded, ¡°Of course not. What they¡¯re making is only the foundation of the actual weapon I have in mind. The remaining parts will have to be done by me.¡±

    ¡°I should give Misha a call sometime and ask her if she could imbue the power of purity into this weapon,¡± she could not help but mutter, only for her to look back at the orb with an excited grin soon after.

    At that moment, the image in the orb was covered in a jade green light with a hint of white and ck strands surrounding it. Seeing those strands, Kurohana could not help but say with great happiness, ¡°Even though some fucker meddled with it, I¡¯m d everything worked out in the end!¡±

    ¡°In any case, the final piece to this n would have to stay in Erudinia for a bit longer. Hopefully it appears before the war is in full swing.¡± She chuckled as she opened up a rift beside the orb, standing up from her seat as she walked towards it. Before crossing the other side, she looked at Shirohana and said, ¡°Before I go, tell Nix that we might head to where the demons are sometime soon.¡±

    ¡°Alright. Take care.¡± Shirohana nodded.

    Whoosh!

    ¡­

    Maerr-viki Content, inside the one of the Seraph Kingdom¡¯s prestigious halls.

    As the sound of metal being hammered mixed with grunts and shouts could be heard throughout the hall, the nascent form of a longsword could be seen on top of the quickly built stage, emanating a faint green glow, acting as a sort of contrast to the incredibly active workforce giving it their all.

    ¡°How are you holding up, Verdante?¡± Zeldrion, who was watching the whole process unfold in front of him, could not help but ask the longsword-shaped being slightly levitating off the stage.

    ¡°For the most part, I¡¯m still good,¡± a voice responded to Zeldrion¡¯s question not long after, soon letting out a sigh. ¡°Then again, I was quite surprised that I would feel that much pain from the conversion process even though I¡¯m an Inanimate.¡±

    Currently, about a day has passed since the forging process had begun. Due to the fact that Aurus was an X-grade Inanimate, and a Spiriveritas on top of that, the process that would allow him to bepatible for forging had taken a long time. And that was already with the strongest mage in their kingdom giving it their all.

    Fortunately for them, Aurus had quickly adapted to the pain, which thetter could not help but wonder if it was a side effect of the All-seeing Comprehension Leaf he had absorbed back in the past. Nevertheless, it was good news for the people as materials were soon sent to Aurus, who absorbed them ording to Zeldrion¡¯s wishes.

    Right now, about three-fourths of the materials needed to form the weapon had already been absorbed by Aurus. The remaining quarter were all high-end materials that needed a lot of care and precision in order to be used to its full potential. Thankfully, all of the mages and cksmiths that had been hired were incredibly skilled, allowing them to finish procuring all of the remaining items within the span of another half day.

    With that, the entire forging process had taken around two days to beplete, with Zeldrion standing far away from Aurus as the best cksmith he had hired stepped onto the stage. The remaining materials were alreadyid out near the longsword, which meant that the cksmith only had to integrate them into Aurus.

    Picking up his trusted hammer, the cksmith looked at Dalton, who seemed to be pondering over something, and asked, ¡°It¡¯s time for us to take the final step. Are you ready, Sir Dalton?¡±

    ¡°As ready as I¡¯ll ever be, I guess,¡± Dalton replied with a shrug of his shoulders.

    Inwardly sighing in response to how his assistant for this final step acted, the cksmith decided to ce hisints at the back of his head, knowing that this would probably be the greatestmission he would ever get in his life.

    ¡°How about you, sir? Are you ready?¡± he asked Aurus after that, to which Aurus replied, ¡°Do your best.¡±

    Nodding, the cksmith closed his eyes, only to open it soon after as his irises quickly turn nk. Soon after, multiple strands of mana extended out of his body as they quickly grabbed the remaining materials, manipting them to be positioned where they should be for the process toplete.

    ¡°[Divine Forger¡¯s Dexterity]!¡±

    ¡°[Blessing of the Artisan Hammer]!¡±

    ¡°[Ephemeral Domain of Understanding]!¡±

    Whoosh!

    In an instant, three powerful skills rted to cksmithing had been unleashed, increasing the cksmith¡¯s abilities in forging to an incredibly high level. Staring at the materials that were faintly glimmering under the effect of his domain, he then shouted, ¡°Sir Dalton, use your best enchantments!¡±

    Hearing that, Dalton responded with a light sigh, scratching his head as he extended one of his arms out. Though, not even a secondter, his expression turned into that of extreme seriousness as a massive magic circleposed of multipleyers soon appeared in front of his extended arm.

    ¡°The great sage of above, heed my call. [Fivefold Casting].¡±

    ¡°9th Circle. [Total Augmentation of Ferocity].¡±

    ¡°9th Circle. [Total Augmentation of Durability].¡±

    ¡°9th Circle. [Total Augmentation of Spirit and Essence].¡±

    ¡°9th Circle. [Ephemeral Blessing of the Peerless de].¡±

    ¡°Andstly¡­¡±

    ¡°1st Transcendent Circle. [Breath of the Immortal Spirit].¡±

    Swoosh!

    As he finished casting his spells, fiverge balls of light quickly made its way to where Aurus and the remaining materials were, exploding not long after as all of them gained an aura equal to a battle-hardened soldier in the battlefield. Even Aurus in his current form could not help but feel like he had gained as much as strength as he did when he went all out while fighting against Wilhelm.

    ¡°[Instant Spell Fusion].¡± Surprisingly, Dalton still wasn¡¯t done, aiming the magic circle at the cksmith as he chanted, ¡°8th Circle. [Total rity]. 7th Circle. [Quintessence of Concentration].¡±

    ¡°9th Circle, Fused Spell. [Epiphany Beyond Adversity].¡±

    Whoosh!

    As a slightlyrge ball of light was sent towards the cksmith, thetter¡¯s body quickly absorbed it, making everything with his senses far clearer than what it was before. In fact, with the spell Dalton had given him, the cksmith felt like he could give 1000% of what he would usually give when crafting, even giving it 10000% of his all did not seem impossible to him right now.

    In any case, as the buff applied to him was temporary, he quickly did his work, allowing the remaining materials to merge with Aurus as he utilized his trusty hammer to slowly fuse the two together. Unsurprisingly, the process slightly hurt Aurus a bit as his soul was gradually being melded into the materials. Nevertheless, as the cksmith was giving it his all, the amount of pain he felt was more or less tolerable, with the process finally finishing around four hourster.

    Schwing!

    At the very moment the cksmith hammered the final material into Aurus, a bright jade green light soon radiated throughout the hall while ck and white threads could be seen lingering around. Fortunately, this phenomenon did notst for too long, quickly disappearing about a few secondster as a peerless longsword now hovered on the stage in front of them.

    ¡°It¡¯s finallyplete¡­¡± the cksmith on stage could not help but mutter as all of the skills and buffs he had before were now deactivated, looking at the final result in front of him with great awe and wonder. Although it looked like a work of art from one side due to its intricately crafted hilt and guard, the aura it exuded at the moment was a stark contrast, giving off the feeling that one sh of the de could cut down gods and demons.

    However, there was a faint feeling of mediocrity added into the aura, prompting the cksmith to ponder whether or not the weapon was a sess. Surprisingly, as if Dalton was reading the cksmith¡¯s mind, he lightly smiled, saying, ¡°A Normal-grade Evolving Ignition weapon. To think the Seraph Kingdom would finally have something like this.¡±

    Hearing that, the cksmith could not help but drop down to the floor, kneeling. ¡°This¡­ this has to be the greatest piece of cksmithing to ever exist in this continent. Not only did I, Alvezar  Forruger, contributed to it, but all of the kingdom¡¯s greatest cksmiths have also coborated inpleting this. Only with this is the supreme heirloom of the royal family truly worthy!¡±

    Seeing that the longsword was finallyplete, Zeldrion finally made a move and stepped forward, looking at the cksmith for a bit before giving him a respectful bow. After that, he bowed towards the other cksmiths and mages that had help out in this whole ordeal before looking at Dalton, giving him a light nod.

    Then, he looked at the longsword in front of him and asked, ¡°Verdante, are you still there?¡±

    ¡°Yeah. Couldn¡¯t feel any better, to be honest.¡± Surprisingly, the longsword replied, its tone slightly indifferent.

    ¡°Good to know.¡± Zeldrion chuckled in response before grabbing the longsword before him by the hilt, raising it upward as he bellowed out, ¡°From this day onward, the Seraph Kingdom shall now have a de that would lead us to a better future, to a kingdom that would soar to the skies with great fervor!¡±

    ¡°With that, I, King Zeldrion Seraph, dere that this longsword shall now be named¡­¡±

    ¡°Eversor!¡±

    ¡°Eversor, huh. Quite a nice name you¡¯ve made up there.¡±

    ¡°Who¡ª?!¡± Before Zeldrion could even wield the newly crafted longsword towards the person that had responded to his announcement, he was quickly sent flying, only stopping thanks to colliding with the pce¡¯s sturdy walls.

    Bang!

    Seeing their kingdom¡¯s ruler being sent flying like that, the cksmiths and mages that were hired could not help but look at the stage, only to be silent as they did not expect such a person like that to wield the newly crafted longsword.

    ck hair that reached up the waist, a youthful face apanied by red irises that would even make entire continents fight for, a pure white dress, and a slightly devilish smile. If it were any other time, they would think that this person was just a teenager messing around. However¡­

    ¡°Nice to meet all of you,¡± the woman responded. ¡°My name is Kurohana, the Greater Goddess of Reincarnation. I¡¯ll be grabbing your Eversor right here, thank you.¡±

    ¡°A goddess¡­¡± all of them could not help but think to themselves. Unfortunately, before they could think about it any further, Kurohana snapped her fingers, rendering all of the people there asleep in an instant. Naturally, she did not spare Zeldrion and Dalton from this, muttering, ¡°I¡¯ll wipe their memories just to be sure.¡±

    As she said this, the longsword she was holding onto could not help but radiate an aura of shock as the being inside it muttered, ¡°Kurohana¡­ is that really you?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s quite nice seeing you again, Aurus,¡± Kurohana giggled as she replied. ¡°You didn¡¯t think you¡¯d see me again so soon, right? In any case, you¡¯ve alreadypleted your mission for me.¡±

    ¡°Mission? Wha¡ª¡± Before Aurus could even respond to her words, Kurohana instantly sent multiple strands of energy into the longsword Aurus was in, quickly allowing Aurus to realize what had happened. ¡°You¡¯re telling me¡­ everything I¡¯ve done so far was all for the purpose of turning me into a weapon? Just so I could be a goddamn weapon?!¡±

    ¡°Uh-huh.¡± Although Kurohana knew very well that there was more to it, she decided to make things easier for her right now. After all, they would have all the time in the world after this to talk.

    ¡°Even the primal instinct that took over my body¡­ you ced that inside me just so you could achieve your goals? W-what kind of sick fuck are you? You¡¯d even sacrifice multiple innocent lives¡­ just for this? Just so I could be your ideal weapon?¡± Aurus said soon after, feeling intense guilt for the people he had ruthlessly killed. Not only that, he also felt intense shame.

    Shame for the utter fool he had be under the machinations of Kurohana.

    ¡°You should think of it as a blessing that you¡¯ve be my weapon,¡± Kurohana indifferently replied, though a light smile appeared on her face soon after.

    ¡°In any case, how about we meet someone else first before youe back with me?¡±

    Whoosh!

    ¡­

    Maerr-viki Continent, inside Verdant Breeze Town.

    Just as Argentum thought that this day right now would be one of the days where he had the greatest peace of mind, a being he had never expected to appear showed up in front of him, wielding a longsword that emanated an aura he was incredibly familiar with.

    ¡°Hello there, Argentum. It¡¯s very nice meeting you,¡± Kurohana said as she sat down on the desk with a mischievous smile on her face. Naturally, Argentum quickly stepped back from her as he could not help but focus his attention towards the longsword she was holding.

    Seeing where he was looking, Kurohana grinned as she told him, ¡°If you¡¯re thinking what I¡¯m thinking, then yes. This longsword right here is Aurus, your original body. Don¡¯t you feel like it¡¯s a fitting reunion for you two?¡±

    After she finished saying that, she then sent a strand of energy into Argentum¡¯s mind, bombarding him with an influx of information regarding the things Aurus had done from her perspective. In mere moments, Argentum had gone through multiple expressions. Disbelief, shock, and eventually¡­ anger.

    ¡°YOU BITCH! I¡¯M GONNA KILL YOU!¡± he yelled out as he used all of his spells and skills at once, wanting to get at least one punch in. Unfortunately for him, he was up against a Divinity level being.

    In the first ce, there was no chance at all.

    Snap!

    With one snap of her fingers, an incorporeal barrier quickly surrounded Argentum, not allowing him to move any further. Seeing as there was no hope for him to dish out a punch, he decided to use words.

    ¡°So you¡¯re the culprit that led to Aurus¡¯s demise! To think I was sent to a wild goose chase by a fucking goddess. To think my original body¡¯s current form is all due to your goddamn lies. I swear to the fucking heavens that my soul will not rest until I fucking end you. I FUCKING SWEAR THAT I¡¯LL GET BACK AT YOU OR MY NAME IS NOT ARGENTUM!¡±

    ¡°Hahaha! Good luck doing that,¡± Kurohana replied, quickly opening up a rift as she left him a few more words.

    ¡°If you want to take revenge for your original body, you better reach the Divinity level as soon as possible. After all, up to this point right now, everything¡­¡±

    ¡°¡­is as fate ordains.¡±

    ¡­

    At a manor in the capital of the Seraph Kingdom, an old man waszily sitting down on his sofa, watching the idyllic sights beyond therge window in front of him like he always did. However, after feeling a faint yet powerful fluctuation from far away, he could not help but frown, quickly forming a few gestures with his hands as a three-dimensional structure made out of mana soon appeared in front of him.

    Whoosh!

    As if it was being controlled by an external power, the three-dimensional structure slowly started to rotate, soon opening up a rift that directly connected to another ce. On the other side was a man shrouded in gray. Though, it was more correct to say that the man was made out of gray energy.

    ¡°What¡¯s the matter, Third Fang? You know very well that calling me is only for emergencies, right?¡± the man made out of energy asked.

    ¡°I know that very well, of course.¡± The old man known as Third Fang nodded in response. ¡°In any case, I just wanted you to know that Kurohana has finally retrieved her weapon. Our mission to im it has be unsessful.¡±

    ¡°Now that definitely warrants a call,¡± the gray man said in response, nodding. ¡°But knowing you, you¡¯ve found ways to weaken the final result, right?¡±

    ¡°Naturally,¡± Third Fang replied. ¡°I¡¯ve made the main material of the weapon form a clone of sorts beforehand, essentially halving its power. Though, it¡¯d be more urate to call it halving its soul. In any case, knowing Kurohana, she¡¯ll definitely find a way to make use of it.¡±

    ¡°At the very least, she¡¯ll have to waste more material in order to bring the weapon up to its intended level of power,¡± the gray man replied. ¡°You¡¯ve done a great service, Third Fang. You can return to the base and take a quick respite. After all, our missions are never over.¡±

    ¡°In any case, from this day onward, the great sage known as Kevin shall cease to exist in the world of Erudinia.¡±

    ¡°Alright, alright. I¡¯ll head there as soon as possible,¡± Third Fang, who was actually Kevin, replied. ¡°For now, just let me stay in Erudinia for a bit more.¡±

    ¡°Alright then. But you better report to base at least a week from now.¡±

    ¡°Got it.¡±

    Whoosh!

    After that, the rift disappeared as the three-dimensional structure that allowed it to form in the first ce broke apart. Sitting in silence for a bit, Kevin grabbed the cup of tea he had brewed before the call and sipped on it, thinking about what he was going to from now on.

    ¡°Ahh. Good tea.¡±

    ¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¨C

    After over one and a half years, Volume 4 is finallyplete. On another note, the first major arc of this story is alsoplete, entitled ¡°As Fate Ordains¡±. Just so you know, the first major arc is just a prologue for the crazy things that¡¯s about t

 Chapter 426

    Chapter 426: The Harsh Reality

    Celestial ne, inside Kurohana¡¯s ne.

    Whoosh!

    As a beautiful woman stepped out of the rift, carrying an intricately crafted longsword in tow, a woman that looked simr to her appeared not long after, nodding as she said to the woman that had just arrived, ¡°Wee back, Kurohana.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s not like I¡¯ve been out for a long time, Shirohana,¡± Kurohana could not help but chuckle as she replied. ¡°If anything, it would be more fitting if you said that to Haihana. Speaking of which, where is she right now?¡±

    ¡°In the gxy opposite the gxy she dropped in at first,¡± Shirohana said in response, only now paying attention to the sword Kurohana had brought with her. ¡°Is that the weapon?¡±

    ¡°The one and only.¡± Kurohana nodded with a smile, soon telling Shirohana to head out to the Hall of Greater Divinity and inform Nix that she would be able to apany her in the skirmish pretty soon. Shrugging her shoulders in response to the order, Shirohana soon left the ne, allowing Kurohana and the longsword to be alone.

    ¡°So, how does it feel to be back in this ce?¡± Kurohana asked Aurus in a slightly mocking tone.

    ¡°Feels like utter shit,¡± Aurus said in response, anger evident in his tone. ¡°Even more so after knowing that I was used like a puppet all this time.¡±

    ¡°Not just any puppet, but a powerful puppet,¡± Kurohana corrected Aurus in a slightly joking manner, though that did not change Aurus¡¯s stance in how he viewed her. Naturally, before all of this, he viewed her as the savior that allowed him to live again. Now, all he thought was that she was a bitch who wouldn¡¯t mind making other people look like a fool.

    ¡°Try all you want to make me listen, but I won¡¯t,¡± Aurus told her not long after. ¡°After all, I¡¯m not even sure if this life I¡¯m going to live from now on is a lie as well. Perhaps, even my past life is all a lie to you.¡±

    Hearing Aurus¡¯s words, Kurohana¡¯s eyes could not help but widen a bit from his final statement, though she quickly returned to normal as she had to find a way to make Aurus cooperate with her. After all, the main reason why she chose Aurus as the main material for her weapon was because of the war.

    ¡°Not everything is a lie,¡± she said in a solemn tone, wanting Aurus to understand that she had only influenced a few of the factors in his life in order to arrive at this end. However, rather than take it at face value, Aurus thought that Kurohana was mocking him once again, so he went into a rage, telling her, ¡°Not everything is a lie? Of course, for a god like you, you could totally say that as you y with mortals on the daily. But how about me? An Inanimate that isn¡¯t even worth a fucking speck of sand in this world we live in? Don¡¯t you think there¡¯s a possibility that my whole existence is a lie? The people I¡¯ve met is a lie? The system I¡¯ve received is a lie? Maybe this conversation between us right now is a lie as well?!¡±

    ¡°If not everything is a lie, then prove to me that this isn¡¯t a lie, Kurohana! Show me that my life is not a lie!¡± he screamed soon after as a faint aura of ck and white surrounded him. Seeing this, Kurohana could not help but let out an inward sigh as she quickly threw Aurus into the air before making a few gestures with her hands, muttering, ¡°May the Greater God of Systems grant me the authority to modify the system of the being in front of me.¡±

    Whoosh!

    In less than a second, a few gray strands were shot out of her hands, quickly wrapping Aurus as the power he had been umting until now had quickly dissipated into thin air,nding on the ground with a hollow ng. As for the gray strands, they returned to Kurohana, forming a small gray ball that seemed to contain something so profound yet intangible.

    Hearing nothing from Aurus after he fell from the ground, Kurohana stood in ce for a bit before allowing to small gray ball to hover over the orb she usually watched the world of Erudinia from. After that, she went towards Aurus and picked him up, asking him, ¡°Now, are you willing to listen to me?¡±

    Unsurprisingly, Aurus did not respond to her at all. In any case, she would still exin everything that led up to this point to Aurus, lest she wanted to be backstabbed by the weapon she wielded in the climax of war. Letting out a sigh, she then started to exin her circumstances in the most sincere tone Aurus had ever heard so far, inwardly surprising him a bit.

    ¡°At this point, I wouldn¡¯t be surprised if you ignored my words, but I¡¯ll still speak up. The Celestial ne is a ne normally only essible by those at the Divinity level. As a goddess, I have all rights to stay in the Celestial ne¡­ however, I need to have the minimum amount of strength to truly have the right.¡±

    ¡°Naturally, as a Greater Goddess, I already have that much strength, yet for some reason, I aimed to be stronger. I wanted to stand out more amongst the great number of Greater Gods and Goddesses there were. With that, as a divine cksmith myself, I thought about the easiest way to achieve that.¡±

    ¡°To forge a masterwork weapon.¡±

    Taking in a quick breath, she continued, ¡°Naturally, as a masterwork weapon, all of the materials I use to make it have to be the very best¡­ even the soul that would be residing it. With that, after a long time of searching for the mostpatible being for it, I found you.¡±

    ¡°Now, you might be wondering, ¡®Why me?¡¯ Well, let me tell you this. Out of all the beings I¡¯vee across so far, you¡¯re the one with the purest soul I¡¯ve ever seen. Perhaps that¡¯s the reason why you excelled in that game of yours, utilizing your sharp wits and quick reflexes to the brim to be known by many people as the Shadow Executioner.¡±

    Hearing words rted to Infinite Stick Evolution took Aurus by off guard. However, he could not help but soften up a tiny bit after hearing a goddess praise him. But of course, Kurohana wasn¡¯t done.

    ¡°And with that, I chose you, allowing to undergo the cycle of reincarnation, being reborn in a world simr to the game you yed,¡± she said. ¡°As there was a limit as to how strong you could be before I would lose control of you once I started crafting the masterwork weapon, I manipted a bit of your fate to hamper you a bit. In this case, I made you act like a fool at times¡­ sometimes a bit more than usual.¡±

    At this point, Aurus could not help but inwardly frown.

    ¡°But just as I thought everything was going to go smoothly, the Celestial ne has received news that demons have started to infiltrate. In fact, even the world you were in has been infiltrated by the demons. Fortunately, they were far away from you, so I didn¡¯t have to think about it too much.¡±

    ¡°However, as someone who fought against the demons back in the past, I can say for a fact that they have the power to eventually bring the Celestial ne to its demise. If they were to be victorious, not only would us gods die, the multiple ster structures scattered throughout this universe would cease to exist as well.¡±

    ¡°Even the world from your past life would not be spared.¡±

    ¡°And thus, I¡¯ve changed my frame of mind into where my masterwork weapon would be turned into a demon-ying weapon,¡± she said, letting out a slightly long sigh. ¡°As every second counts in the Celestial ne where the threat of demons are looming, I could not help but let out an inward sigh of relief once you were finally transformed into a weapon.¡±

    ¡°However, you¡¯re only suitable to be wielded by a mortal, perhaps a Transcendent if one was forced to do so. With that, I¡¯ll have to forge you once more, allowing you to be on par with weapons gods and goddesses would normally wield. However, in the long run, you would eventually surpass them, perhaps even be the strongest weapon in the Celestial ne. After all, you¡¯re an Evolving Ignition type weapon. From the name itself, you know that you¡¯ll slowly be stronger the more you¡¯re used.¡±

    Staring at the de that slightly glistened from the bright white of the ne to the intricately crafted hilt that radiated a faint green glow, Kurohana then told Aurus, ¡°Right now, I¡¯m not asking for your forgiveness. I wouldn¡¯t even be surprised if you hate me to the core. All I want is your cooperation as the survival of every being in this universe is at stake.¡±

    After a minute or so of silence between the two, Aurus finally responded, asking her with a tone of slight hesitation, ¡°And¡­ what if everything you¡¯ve said so far is a lie as well?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯d rather just die,¡± Kurohana said after pondering a bit, prompting Aurus to let out a chuckle out of nowhere, catching the former by surprise.

    ¡°To think a goddess would say that they¡¯d rather die¡­ if this is still a lie, then this has got to be the most interesting lie there is.¡±

    ¡°I still think you¡¯re the worst being to ever live in this universe, but since you¡¯re saying it¡¯s for the sake of survival¡­¡±

    ¡°Then you¡¯re basically giving me no choice but to agree, right?¡± he said, prompting Kurohana to lightly smile in response. Soon, a solemn aura emanated from her, allowing Aurus to feel the magnanimity that came from a divine cksmith.

    While that was happening, the small gray ball slowly descended, being absorbed by the orb soon after. At the moment, the image on the orb was focused on¡­

    Argentum.  <!--

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 Chapter 427

    Chapter 427: Renouncing One¡¯s Existence

    About an hour has passed since Aurus had agreed to Kurohana¡¯s request of upgrading him. At the moment, a few instruments that starkly contrasted to the bright white of the ce were hovering a few meters away from the two. Naturally, as Kurohana was a divine cksmith, all of these instruments were rted to forging. Looking at the sight, Kurohana deftly waved one of her hands to move the instruments around, quickly arranging them in a way that would normally be seen at a smithy in the mortal world.

    Snapping her fingers, a fire was quickly started inside the furnace as she sat down in front of the anvil, cing Aurus on it as she gestured with her hands once more, allowing arge amount of materials to appear near the two, being ced into a neat pile just beside Kurohana.

    While waiting for the fire to get up to temperature, Kurohana could not help but look at Aurus and say, ¡°I¡¯ve got to say, the cksmiths in that kingdom have definitely gone all out in making you as sturdy and strong as possible. They even ced an enchantment that would allow you to quickly repair in the midst of battle, basically allowing you to be sharp at all times.¡±

    ¡°Is an enchantment like that difficult?¡± As Aurus was feeling bored, he decided to reply. In any case, the rtionship between the two of them haven¡¯t gotten any better. At most, the two were in a sort of business rtionship.

    Tilting her head left to right a few times, Kurohana replied, ¡°It depends on the ce, I guess. On the continent you were in, an enchantment like that is incredibly rare. But if you were in the Transcendent World, you¡¯ll be able to find people that would be able to cast an enchantment like that, but one tier higher. Naturally, the Celestial ne would also have people that would be able to cast an enchantment like that, but rather than giving you the option to quickly repair your damage, you just be immune to it.¡±

    ¡°I see¡­¡± Aurus said, bing silent for a bit more before recalling the gray strands that enveloped him while he was in a fit of rage. ¡°Now that I think about it, what were those gray strands that allowed me to calm down from my rage a while ago?¡±

    ¡°Law strands,¡± Kurohana indifferently replied. Though, her next words quickly angered Aurus once more. ¡°To be more specific, the Law of the System. What I did was basically remove the system from you.¡±

    ¡°What did you do?!¡± he bellowed out, trying to umte power once more. However, unlike before, the aura surrounding him was far weaker, plus he felt like it was difficult for him to do such a thing. ¡°And here I thought you feel guilty for making me your weapon!¡±

    Guilty? Why would I feel something like that?¡± Kurohana said in response, though it soon dawned on her that she was talking to a mortal¡­ well, a mortal in his previous life. Things like morality and values did not matter much to her, or any of the other gods for that matter. However, for a being like Aurus, it mattered a lot.

    With that in mind, Kurohana quickly sent a strand of information towards the longsword on the anvil, quickly making the ce silent. A few secondster, Aurus asked Kurohana in a slightly surprised tone, ¡°You did that with those strands?¡±

    ¡°¡­why?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll answer your question after this. For now, keep that question to yourself,¡± Kurohana said in response, quickly grabbing a hammer from nearby as she told him, ¡°Anyways, let¡¯s start making you a better weapon.¡±

    ¡°After all, a god has to have a worthy weapon in hand.¡±

    ¡­

    Maerr-viki Continent, Verdant Breeze Town, inside the town leader¡¯s manor.

    Bang! Bang! Bang!

    As the time difference between the Celestial ne and the world of Erudinia was in a ratio of 1 to 8, it was already nighttime by the time Kurohana started upgrading Aurus into a better weapon. Surprisingly, from the time Kurohana left until now, Argentum was still in a fit of rage, feeling like he was wronged this whole time.

    Well, in reality, Aurus was turned into a weapon by Kurohana. In turn, as Aurus¡¯s clone of sorts, Argentum could not help but feel immense rage towards Kurohana, with the thought of killing her as quick as possible being the only thing in his mind right now.

    ¡°THAT BITCH! I¡¯M GOING TO KILL HER!¡± He screamed over and over again, seemingly in a trance of sorts as he mmed his fists down on anything he could. As a Magic-grade Pseudo-Animate, and someone who had undergone a Power Baptism on top of that, the force behind his fists wasn¡¯t anything to be scoffed at, with the desk he used to work on now on the verge of breaking into bits.

    Naturally, all of the other items in the room weren¡¯t spared either, with a couple of fist marks on those that were prone to breaking. As for those that were more durable, they weren¡¯t spared, also being on the verge of breaking like the desk he liked to work on.

    Surprisingly, as if he had run out of steam, Argentum stood in the middle of his room, taking in a few deep breaths as he thought that there was no point in him venting out his grievances right now. What he needed right now was a n that would allow him to reach the Divinity level as fast as possible and behead the bitch that turned his original body into a weapon.

    However, just as he was about to finally calm himself down and think of the situation from a rational perspective, a few notifications popped up from the system at that exact moment. As he read through it, the rage, which he thought was finally waning at first, had quickly returned and even surpassed it previous level, reaching a new zenith as he yelled out with great anger, ¡°KUROHANA!!!!¡±

    Ding!

    ¡®A divine entity has reconfigured your system, transferring the ownership of the Transcending Existence System from [Aurus] to [Argentum].¡¯

    ¡®As the ownership of the system has been transferred, the following skills have been removed from the Transcending Existence System: [Sense Sharing], [Automated Clone Control], [Clone Possession], [Clone Hibernation], [Mental Communication].¡¯

    ¡®As the ownership of the system has been transferred, the following systems have been removed from the Transcending Existence System: Ally system, Genesis Tree system, Soul Enchantment system.¡¯

    ¡®As the following systems have been removed, the current owner has no ess to these systems from this point onwards, with the previous owner only having the effects of these three systems remain in them.¡¯

    ¡®A divine entity has reconfigured your system, modifying the system to fit your current knowledge and experience.¡¯

    ¡®A divine entity has left a message for the current owner, saying, ¡°If you really want to kill me, then you better head up the Celestial ne and be a god as fast as possible! If you can¡¯t even do that, then you¡¯re no better than your original body.¡¯

    Bang!

    ¡°KUROHANA!!!! I SWEAR TO THE FUCKING HEAVENS THAT I¡¯LL KILL YOU NO MATTER WHAT!! YOU HEAR ME?! I, ARGENTUM, WOULD EVENTUALLY ENACT REVENGE FOR MY ORIGINAL BODY!! FOR MYSELF!!!¡±

    Yelling out with greater fervor than before, all of the items had finally sumbed to the strength behind Argentum¡¯s fists, crumbling down to the floor as the room now looked like the aftermath of a termite infestation. Coincidentally, at this very moment, the door to the room had been opened, revealing two beings that Argentum was familiar with.

    ¡°What¡­ the hell happened here, Argentum?¡± Horell could not help but say as he entered the room with Herellia behind him. Noticing the seemingly crazed state Argentum was in, Horell looked back at the people that had apanied them and shook his head, non-verbally telling them to step back as he thought they would have no way to help their town leader.

    After those people left, Horell closed the door to the room before letting out a light sigh, asking, ¡°So, what happe¡ª¡±

    Unfortunately, before Horell could finish his question, Argentum, who was yelling out with all his might before the two arrived, quickly kneeled on the ground as tears started to fall out of his eyes. At first, he was silently sobbing, sniffing from time to time. However, within the matter of a few seconds, it turned into a full-on bawl, wailing out all of his grievances.

    ¡°I failed you, Aurus¡­ I¡¯m sorry¡­ I should have focused on getting stronger¡­ I should have aimed to be as strong as you¡­ and now¡­ now¡­ you¡¯re in the hands of that goddess that deceived you¡­ that lied to you¡­ I¡¯m sorry¡­ I¡¯m sorry¡­¡±

    As those words resounded throughout the room, Horell and Herellia could not help but only listen to him in silence, making it seem like they weren¡¯t there in the first ce. With that, Argentum continued to cry for a bit more, thinking that everything that had happened to Aurus was all of his fault. However, that did notst for long as a type of realization hit him, prompting him to stop crying as he stood up.

    Wiping off the tear stains on his face, Argentum looked at Horell and Herellia before lightly nodding. Although he had stopped crying, it was slightly difficult for him to stop sniffling. ¡°T-thank you¡­¡±

    After that, he took in a few deep breaths as his emotions gradually calmed down. Eventually, he had seemingly returned to normal. Though, from Horell and Herellia¡¯s perspective, they felt like the aura surrounding Argentum had be more stable, as if they were looking at a person that had experienced a lot.

    Slowly making his way to therge window, Argentum then said something that left the two of them at a loss for words.

    ¡°Unless I achieve my goal, I shall never use the name Argentum again.¡±

    ¡°From now on, I shall take on the name of my original body, with the goal of having his name be known by everyone, not as the puppet of a deity, not as someone who killed innocent people for his own goals, but as a legendary figure that everyone can look up to.¡±

    ¡°From now on, my name is¡­¡±

    ¡°Aurus Verdante.¡±  <!--

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 Chapter 428

    Chapter 428: Sudden Announcement

    As Argentum¡­ well, Aurus turned around to look at Herellia and Horell, he could not help but notice their speechless expressions and ask, ¡°Is there something on my face?¡±

    ¡°Is there something on your face¡­ is that really the first thing you say after everything that happened here?¡± Horell said in response, finally snapping back to reality as he let out a light sigh. ¡°For quite a while, we heard loud banging soundsing from this room, as well as some screams. Then, it turned into onerge crash and one loud scream. After that, you started bawling your eyes out, only to make a promise not long after wherein you¡¯ll now be called Aurus. If you were in our shoes, how would you react?¡±

    ¡°Ah.¡± It was only then that Aurus realized that they did not know of the reason why everything had turned out like this. With that in mind, he gave them a summary of what happened to the actual Aurus from half a day ago, prompting the two to go silent for a bit before Herellia said, ¡°After being kept by that kingdom, a powerful being actually stole Aurus from the kingdom and kept him captive. Then, sometime ago, you obtained a message wherein you have a chance to get him back, but you have to reach a certain level of power¡­ is that right?¡±

    ¡°Pretty much.¡± Aurus nodded in response.

    ¡°Did that powerful being ever tell you what level of power you have to reach?¡± Horell asked soon after.

    ¡°Divinity level,¡± Aurus sinctly replied, prompting Herellia and Horell to look at each for a bit before looking back at Aurus. Seeing the confusion on their faces, Aurus told them, ¡°It¡¯s a very high level of power that beings like us couldn¡¯t reach that easily.¡±

    ¡°But it¡¯s still possible to reach, right?¡± Herellia asked, prompting Aurus to go silent for a bit. Surprisingly, it was only at that moment did everything truly sink in, allowing him to approach everything from a rational perspective, taking in a quick breath as he looked at Herellia and said with a light smile, ¡°Yeah, it¡¯s possible. Thanks, I kind of needed that.¡±

    ¡°Thanks?¡± Although Herellia was confused as to why Aurus thanked him all of a sudden, she still replied nevertheless.

    ¡°So, care to exin the promise you made to yourself?¡± Horell asked after a while. ¡°I get the fact that you want to call yourself Aurus since he¡¯s your original body and all that¡­ but where did you get Verdante?¡±

    ¡°Well¡­¡± Not expecting such a question to be thrown at him, Aurus went silent for a bit. Fortunately, it only took him a few seconds toe up with an answer as he told Horell, ¡°For Animates, not only do they have a first name, they also have another name, which they call their family name. As to where Verdante came from, I just grabbed it from the name of the town. Doesn¡¯t it sound good?¡±

    ¡°I guess so,¡± Horell shrugged his shoulders as he replied, allowing Aurus to let out an inward sigh of relief. Although both Horell and Herellia had joined him on that trip to the Seraph Kingdom, they did not hear what the actual Aurus told his opponent back then due to them not having skills that allow them to do so. In short, using Verdante as his family name is a sort of homage to his original body¡¯s identity as a Spiriveritas.

    ¡°So, does that mean we have to call you Aurus from now on?¡± Herellia asked soon after, to which Aurus nodded in response. Seeing that, Herellia said in response, ¡°It¡¯s going to take a while for us to adjust, but alright. We¡¯ll respect your wishes.¡±

    ¡°Thank you,¡± Aurus said as he lightly smiled in response to her words. ¡°Moving onto another topic, I¡¯ll be holding a meeting with the benefactors of this town sometimeter. I hope you two can join in on this as well.¡±

    ¡°Sure, it¡¯s not like we¡¯re busy anyway,¡± Horell said in response. ¡°Though, why don¡¯t you hold the meeting right now?¡±

    Hearing that, Aurus pointed at the multiple piles of rubble and dust scattered throughout the room, prompting Horell to p himself on the forehead, feeling like a fool for a bit. With that, both Herellia and Horell decided to help Aurus out in the cleaning of the room, surprisingly finishing the task in half an hour.

    As they asked some of the people outside the manor to carry the rubble to a nearby construction site, the three of them returned to the now empty room as Aurus utilized his connection with Felix and the others, simultaneously sending them a message in one go that said, ¡°Meet me at the Verdant Breeze Town manor as soon as possible.¡±

    Whoosh!

    Unexpectedly, about a few seconds after Aurus had just sent his message, a rift quickly opened up, revealing a dashing gentleman wearing a navy blue tuxedo. Not only that, but a beautiful woman in an elegant red dress soon appeared behind the man, smiling as she looked at Aurus and said, ¡°Nice to see you again, Argentum.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s also nice to see you again, Eleanor,¡± Aurus said in response, sporting a smile that gave off the feeling that everything was under his control. ¡°However, it would be fine if you came a few minutester since Rosalia and Helios are still far away.¡±

    ¡°Who says we¡¯re far away?¡± a prideful voice said in response to Aurus¡¯s words as a man and woman that had the same level of aesthetics as the gentleman and woman from before appeared in the room. The man wore casual clothes that had varying hues of green, while the woman wore a long-sleeved dress that glistened under the rays of the moon, taking on a color of light gray.

    ¡°So, Argentum. What did you call us four here for?¡± Felix said soon after, effectively starting the impromptu meeting Aurus had arranged.

    ¡°Well, first off, I¡¯d like it if you guys referred to me as Aurus from now on,¡± Aurus replied, sending a few strands of energy that contained information, allowing them to get the gist of why Aurus, previously Argentum, wanted it that way.

    ¡°Alright then. So, Aurus, why did you call us? Are you nning to do something to this town?¡± Rosalia asked after she had digested the information she was given.

    ¡°As the leader of this town, it¡¯s a given that I have to develop it for the betterment of its citizens and its benefactors,¡± Aurus said in response, prompting the four to nod in response in agreement. However, his next words made them raise their eyebrows.

    ¡°However, that¡¯s not the reason why I called you four here. Instead, I want to tell you that I¡¯m nning to transition into an Animate. Surely you four have techniques that would allow a Pseudo-Animate to be an Animate, right?¡±

    ¡°Although we do have those kinds of techniques, would you mind telling us the reason why?¡± Rosalia nodded as she asked in response.

    ¡°Originally, my original body was nning to ascend to the Animate level once he had reached the peak of X-grade Inanimate,¡± Aurus started to exin. ¡°However, after being caught by that powerful being, he decided to delegate that task to me, giving me all of the information I need to progress smoothly as an Animate.¡±

    Naturally, that was a lie. As Aurus and the actual Aurus shared memories, that meant that Aurus knew multiple ways to be stronger as an Animate. Of course, he could also take the route of a Pseudo-Animate as he also had memories in that regard as well. However, to reduce the time he spent getting stronger while at the same time getting stronger in a smaller time frame, taking on the path of an Animate was his ideal choice.

    ¡°Didn¡¯t you tell me back then that you had a technique, Felix?¡± Aurus continued. ¡°Though, I would need to reach Grand-grade first, right?¡±

    ¡°Yeah.¡± Felix nodded.

    ¡°With that, do any of you guys have simr techniques that would allow me to transition into an Animate while being at a lower grade?¡± Aurus asked, prompting the four to be silent while Herellia and Horell listened on the side.

    Eventually, a response was received from the four as Helios looked at Aurus with pride written all over his face, telling him, ¡°Fortunately, this divine being right here has a technique that would allow you to transition as an Animate while still being at Magic-grade. However, the only drawback is that you would need to undergo a Power Baptism first to use it. As I am a magnanimous person, I shall help you clear that Power Baptism!¡±

    ¡°Er¡­ about that¡­ you should check his aura first,¡± Felix said in response to Helios¡¯s words, letting out an awkward chuckle as he looked at Aurus. In response, Aurus looked back at him and nodded, allowing his entire aura to spread throughout the room. In less than an instant, Helios finally understood what Felix was getting at, saying with a surprised tone, ¡°Ah, he¡¯s already gone through his Power Baptism.¡±

    Hearing such a surprised tonee from Helios, Aurus and the other three could not help but look at him, not expecting him to speak like that before. Fortunately for Helios, he quickly caught on and said in his usual prideful tone, ¡°But that¡¯s to be expected of my greatest fan! For my fan to be this strong brings this divine being great joy!¡±

    Ignoring what Helios said after that, Aurus looked at Eleanor and Rosalia before asking, ¡°How about you two? Do you have techniques that have better requirements than Helios¡¯s technique?¡±

    ¡°Mine needs you to reach the Epic-grade.¡± Eleanor shook her head.

    ¡°Same here.¡± Rosalia shook her head as well.

    ¡°Hmm¡­ what should I choose¡­¡± Aurus said sometimeter, pondering over whether he should choose Helios¡¯s technique or Felix¡¯s technique. Fortunately, it did not take long for him toe to a conclusion as he said, ¡°Alright, I¡¯m choosing Felix¡¯s technique!¡±

    ¡°Huh?¡± Unsurprisingly, Helios was the first one to react. ¡°Are you assuming that this divine being¡¯s technique is inferior to the technique of that blue gentleman there?¡±

    ¡°Not at all.¡± Aurus shook his head, lightly grinning as he replied, ¡°It¡¯s just that¡­¡±

    ¡°I can evolve to Grand-grade at any time!¡±  <!--

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 Chapter 429

    Chapter 429: Evolving in an Instant

    ¡°Evolve to Grand-grade at any time?¡± Once the four heard that, they could not help but look at each other, inwardlyughing at the absurdity of Aurus¡¯s statement. However, Herellia and Horell, who had been listening in on the conversation all this time, remained silent. After all, the two of them had seen the absurd leveling speed of actual Aurus from back then, so it was no surprise that this ability would be carried over into the Aurus in front of them. In fact, Herellia was so certain that Aurus could truly pull it off thanks to the system he had with him.

    In any case, none of the four trulyughed at Aurus¡¯s words, thinking that it was just some sort of hyperbole in order for them to not lose hope in him. To them, even if it took a few months for him to reach Grand-grade, it wouldn¡¯t matter much. That¡¯s how much belief they had in his words¡­ basically none.

    As for Aurus, he could not help but shrug his shoulders as hemanded the system in his mind, ¡°System, I would like to evolve to the next grade.¡±

    Ding!

    Unsurprisingly, the voice of the system quickly resounded in his mind as it told him, ¡°You have met the necessary requirements to evolve to the next grade, the Grand grade. As your current species is incredibly rare in the world of Erudinia, there are no evolution choices for you to choose from.¡±

    ¡°The species you shall evolve into is the Lesser Origin Spirit Lord. Would you like to evolve right now?¡±

    ¡°Yes.¡± As if trying to prove a point, Aurus epted the prompt, instantly starting a small whirlpool of gray energy around him. Noticing this whirlpool of gray energy, the four could not help but look in silence, only to look at each other once more as they all thought the same thing at this moment.

    ¡®It seems we were in the wrong this time.¡¯

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    Slowly but surely, the whirlpool of energy surrounding Aurus rotated faster and faster as it gradually expanded, soon covering about a quarter of the room. However, that was where it stopped expanding, instead intensifying in light before quickly contracting as the energy emanating from Aurus had undergone a massive boost.

    Bang!

    At that very moment, the flooring under Aurus seemingly cracked from the pressure brought by the contraction of the whirlpool as the aura Aurus emanated was now a tad stronger than it was before. In fact, there was even a hint of majesty from the aura he exuded, making the four feel like they were looking at a being that was higher up on the food chainpared to them. As for Herellia and Horell, once they felt this aura, they could not help wryly smile inwardly as they recalled another being that exuded a simr aura.

    Ding!

    ¡®[Argentum ¡ª Lesser Origin Spirit] has evolved to [Argentum ¡ª Lesser Origin Spirit Lord].¡¯

    ¡®Well, it¡¯s no surprise that the system won¡¯t change the name that easily,¡¯ Aurus thought to himself, slightly chuckling. ¡®Nevertheless, I¡¯ve finally evolved to Grand-grade. It¡¯s quite unfortunate that I won¡¯t be staying in this state for too long, though.¡¯

    ¡°System, allocate all of the unused experience points I have into leveling up,¡± hemanded not long after, recalling that he still had over 20,000 experience points left over after he maxed out his level while he was still a Magic-grade Pseudo-Animate.

    With that, another surprising sight was shown for Felix and the others as they quickly noticed that the aura surrounding Aurus had grown significantly stronger within a matter of seconds. For the silent duo, especially Herellia, they looked at this sight if it was just a normal urrence.

    Ding!

    ¡®Congrattions! You have leveled up to Level 12.¡¯

    ¡°It seems I still have to obtain more experience points if I want to max out my level,¡± he muttered inwardly. ¡°In any case, my stats are definitely a lot higher than before. Though, now wouldn¡¯t be a good time to check that.¡±

    Taking in a deep breath as he limated to his newfound strength, Aurus then looked at Felix and the others with a light smile on his face as he reactivated [False Visage of the Animate] again. ¡°So? Do you now believe me when I said I could evolve to Grand-grade at any time?¡±

    ¡°Well, you just did it, so it would be a lie at this point if we said we still don¡¯t believe you,¡± Felix said in response, a wry smile apparent on his face. In fact, thanks to this, the four were reminded of Argentum¡¯s monstrous talent. Even though it had been a while since he had made a move in pursuit of greater power, this made them realize that he had not lost that talent at all.

    ¡°So, Felix. Mind giving me that technique?¡± Aurus asked soon after, prompting Felix to let out a light sigh as he ced a finger on Aurus¡¯s forehead, quickly sending a strand of energy into him. Of course, this strand of energy was filled to the brim with information, which Aurus quickly absorbed within seconds.

    After closing his eyes for a bit, he looked at Felix and asked, ¡°What type of technique is this exactly?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll be the one to exin that,¡± Eleanor replied, slightly catching Aurus off guard. Then again, as long as his question was answered, it did not matter as to who gave the answer to him.

    ¡°Although techniques like these are known by many names, there¡¯s a name for them that almost everyone can agree on. Existence Transition techniques. From the name itself, it would allow a being at one existence level to transition into another existence level,¡± she exined. ¡°However, the only ones that can use this are Inanimates, Pseudo-Animates like me and Felix, and Animates like Rosalia and Helios.¡±

    ¡°Through an Existence Transition technique, one would be able to transition into the two other possible existence levels as long as they ept that they would have to sacrifice something in exchange. On top of that, they would have to reach a certain level of power beforehand, or else they might end up as an incredibly weak version of that existence level, making the transition useless in the first ce,¡± she concluded, looking at Felix after that.

    ¡°As for the technique I¡¯ve given you, it¡¯s called the [Mortal Grasping Corporeality Manual].¡± Naturally, Felix noticed the sign Eleanor gave him and continued where she left off. ¡°From the name itself, it allows a Pseudo-Animate to transition into an Animate. However, it would also allow a Pseudo-Animate to transition into an Inanimate, though there wouldn¡¯t be much point into it.¡±

    ¡°The requirements to use the technique is to reach the peak of Grand-grade. As for the thing you¡¯ll have to sacrifice, it would be a great portion of the skills you¡¯ve umted until now, with only the skills that are important to you being left behind. Naturally, the more skills you sacrifice for the technique, the better the transition bes,¡± he said, prompting Aurus to be silent for a bit. After a while, Aurus nodded before telling Felix, ¡°Thanks.¡±

    ¡°No problem,¡± Felix nodded in response as he replied.

    ¡°Well, with that done, is it fine if we head back to our respective inheritances again?¡± Eleanor asked sometimeter, eliciting a light smile to appear on Aurus¡¯s face as he replied, ¡°Why the rush? Don¡¯t you guys want to hear the n I have in mind once I transition into an Animate?¡±

    ¡°Hoh?¡± Unsurprisingly, with Aurus cing great emphasis on this question, it was difficult for the four to not be curious.

    ¡°Well, before I start exining my n, have you guys heard of a Super Animate before?¡± Aurus asked, to which the four nodded as one of them responded, ¡°An Animate that could fight against those one to two ranks above them. What about it?¡±

    ¡°Then¡­ how about an Ultra Animate?¡± he said soon after, noticing that all of their expressions froze in ce as everything clicked in their minds.

    ¡°How sure are you of achieving this?¡± Helios asked, his tone now serious. ¡°You know very well to not joke around with us regarding things like these.¡±

    ¡°I can guarantee bing a Super Animate at the very least, while bing an Ultra Animate wouldn¡¯t be far from the realm of possibility,¡± Aurus solemnly replied, making the four wonder if they were even talking to the same being they knew in the past. ¡°In any case, I¡¯ll have to delegate the duty of managing the town¡¯s affairs to the vice leader of this town while I try to achieve this. After all, we can only do so many things at once.¡±

    ¡°Speaking of which, I have something else to propose,¡± he said soon after, catching everyone in the room off guard as he looked at Horell. With a light smile, he asked him, ¡°Horell, how about you transition into an Animate with me?¡±

    ¡°Eh?¡± Naturally, Horell was surprised to hear this from Aurus. After all, he had never even thought about transitioning into an Animate at any point in time. ¡°Why though?¡±

    ¡°Let¡¯s just say that you and Herellia are somewhat important variables in the n I have in mind,¡± Aurus said in response.

    ¡°How about it, Horell?¡±

    ¡°Why not give it a shot?¡±  <!--

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 Chapter 430

    Chapter 430: Realizing One¡¯s Wrongs

    ¡°I¡­¡± Although Horell felt like epting Aurus¡¯s offer was the right decision, he could not help but feel a slight danger from it. With that in mind, Horell could not help but let out a light sigh as he told him, ¡°I-I¡¯m sorry, Aurus. I¡¯ll have to reconsider it for now.¡±

    After that, Horell respectfully bowed to the four before making his way out of the room. Sometimeter, Herellia looked at Aurus for a bit before sending a strand of energy to him, containing a message within. Eventually, she respectfully bowed to the four as well, leaving the room about a couple of minutes after Horell left.

    At that point, only Aurus and the four inheritance owners were left in the room, with thetter four staring at Aurus in silence. From what they could infer through the words spoken between the three of them, it seemed like something happened before they arrived. Noticing this as well, Aurus looked at the four before letting out a soft sigh, telling them in a slightly gentler tone than what he used to speak with, ¡°We¡¯ll have to postpone this conversation for ater time. Give us some time to sort this out.¡±

    Hearing that, the four looked at each other for a bit in silence before collectively nodding. Soon after, Felix opened up a rift that the four passed through, exchanging a few strands of energy between one another that seemed to contain messages within them. A few secondster, the rift was closed, leaving Aurus alone to himself as the dim moonlight from therge window shone down on him.

    Letting out a long sigh, heid down on his back as he stared out of therge window, muttering to himself, ¡°Just when I thought I had it all together, it turns that I don¡¯t.¡±

    In his mind, he thought that he had already gotten over the rage and grief that came from the fact that Kurohana had turned Aurus into a weapon and that everything was a lie all this time. In fact, he also thought that he had it together while talking with Felix and the others. However, now that he had the time to mull about it, he realized that he was speaking in a manner that was slightly foreign to them, they just didn¡¯t tell him.

    He thought that, to them, he must¡¯ve sounded like a crazed person aiming to achieve a goal that was fruitless in the end. Well, in a way, his end goal was kind of like that. After all, he would have to reach the Divinity level.

    ¡°In the height of my delusions, I even implicated Horell into my madness,¡± he muttered. ¡°Then again, it would be nice if he and Herellia were there to apany me on my journey.¡±

    ¡°I wonder why it¡¯s so hard to move on,¡± he said a few secondster, only to correct himself soon after. ¡°No, moving on is always hard. I just deluded myself into thinking that it was that simple to forget about it.¡±

    Letting out yet another sigh, he closed his eyes as he thought about how he would approach everything from now on. Right now, the thought of reaching the Divinity level as fast as possible was now pushed to the back of his mind, with his main priority now wondering how he could mend the rtionships he had possibly broken just from this single meeting. After all, what¡¯s the point of reaching the Divinity level if he had no one else to enjoy the feeling with?

    Surprisingly, by the time he opened his eyes, the sun was already up, prompting Aurus to realize that he had been lying down on the floor for quite some time already. Standing up, he felt his back start to ache. In response, he did a bit of light stretching, albeit with a hint of difficulty due to the pain.

    After that, he looked out of the window for a while, taking in deep breaths as he tried to make sure that he was like his usual self. Then again, he knew for a fact that it was difficult to do that after the event, so he aimed to be his self that was at least familiar enough to the others, not erratic like the Aurus they sawst night.

    pping his face with both hands, he then headed out of the manor, walking around town to greet those that he hade across with a smile. Bit by bit, he felt his mind rx as the thought of revenge gradually disappeared for the meantime. By the time he had arrived at where Herellia and Horell were, the aura he gave off was now simr to how it was before the event.

    As Herellia and Horell were both leaders of the Verdant Blossom Branch Alliance, they decided to help out in the development process of the town by acting as managers. With that, they were quite surprised to see Aurus appear in front of them in the middle of work.

    Recalling what Herellia told himst night, he could not help but stand in ce for a bit.

    ¡®You¡¯ve changed¡¯ was all that Herellia told himst night, but that was more than enough of a wake-up call for him to realize that he had messed up somewhere. Seeing as to how the two were in the process of excusing themselves in order for them to leave the premises, Aurus went closer to them and said as he scratched his head, ¡°I¡­ I¡¯m sorry for what happenedst night.¡±

    Hearing those wordse out of him caught the two by surprise, making them wonder which Aurus they¡¯ve interacted with was the real Aurus. With the two now staying to listen to him, Aurus knew very well to not pass up on the opportunity, continuing to apologize as he said, ¡°I¡¯ve been rash in my decisionsst night. After all, I¡¯ve gone through quite a few things before you two arrived at my room. However, that doesn¡¯t excuse me from the fact that I treated you two badly. In fact, I¡¯m also nning to apologize to the four sometimeter, telling them that the Aurus they were talking to wasn¡¯t in the right frame of mind.¡±

    ¡°However, you two have been with the actual Aurus for the longest time, so I felt like it was just right for me to apologize to you two first.¡± At this point, Aurus was now looking at the ground, wondering if the two would even forgive him. Fortunately, two hands were ced on his shoulder, prompting him to slowly looking up, seeing that Horell and Herellia were looking at him with smiles on their faces. After that, they hit him with statements that could not help but make himugh in the end.

    ¡°I may be an Animate, but I still don¡¯t get how emotions work for the most part. However, one thing¡¯s for sure. You¡¯ve realized that you did something wrong and owned up to it. That alone is enough for me to realize that the Aurus we¡¯ve known so far hasn¡¯t disappeared,¡± Herellia said.

    ¡°Unlike our leader right here, I do know how to read emotions somewhat, so I know you¡¯re feeling guilt right now,¡± Horell said, letting out an awkward chuckle as he continued, ¡°To be honest, seeing you in that state was kind of scary, so I decided to leave. With that, I want to apologize as well. However, I¡¯m really d that you seem to have control over your emotions again, unlikest night.¡±

    ¡°And uh¡­¡± Twiddling with his fingers, he asked, ¡°Is the offer of transitioning into an Animate still avable? I¡¯m pretty sure that even though you were like that, there¡¯s some truth in their words you spoke.¡±

    ¡°But of course,¡± Aurus chuckled as he replied, nodding at Horell. ¡°The part where I told everyone that you two are important variables in my n is not a lie. However, it¡¯s not in the way you think.¡±

    Wrapping his arms around the shoulders of the two, he continued, ¡°After all, don¡¯t you think it¡¯s boring if I¡¯m the only one striving to reach the Divinity level?¡±

    Hearing that, Herellia and Horell could not help but look at each other for a bit before letting out a hint ofughter. Sometimeter, Aurusughed as well, allowing a joyous atmosphere to spread throughout.

    After a while, Aurus let go of the two as Herellia could not help but say, ¡°It seems we¡¯ve gotten our Aurus back.¡±

    ¡°For the most part. After all, I¡¯m not sure if I really have it under control.¡± Aurus wryly smiled in response. ¡°If I do return to that state, do tell me.¡±

    ¡°Naturally.¡± Horell and Herellia nodded in response.

    ¡°So, great town leader, what are you nning to do now? Contact the four benefactors and apologize to them?¡± Horell asked not long after, to which Aurus shook his head in response. Instead, he told them something that left them slightly confused. Nevertheless, with the aura of confidence surrounding him, it seemed that Aurus was adamant in doing this first.

    ¡°Although that¡¯s a great idea, I did say that I¡¯m going to do thatter. For now, I¡¯m going to¡­¡±

    ¡°Head to the Origin Pantheon!¡±  <!--

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 Chapter 431

    Chapter 431: Meeting Torvas Again

    ¡°The Origin Pantheon? What¡¯s that?¡± Naturally, the two of them had no clue as to what the Origin Pantheon was. After all, only Felix and the others knew that he had gained control over the element of Lesser Origin. With that in mind, Aurus patiently exined everything rted to the Origin Pantheon, from the part where he nned to obtain the element to where he had obtained control over it. Of course, he omitted quite a lot of superficial elements to it, only telling them the information that they really need to know.

    ¡°So, in short, Lesser Origin is an element that¡¯s made up of four elements and gives you ess to a ce where other people with control over that same element congregate,¡± Horell said after Aurus finished exining, to which thetter replied with a shrug of his shoulders, ¡°More or less.¡±

    ¡°What are you going to do there, though?¡± Herellia asked soon after, to which Aurus replied, ¡°I¡¯m going to meet up with a person that actually predicted what would happen to Aurus. Naturally, I was skeptical at first¡­ but now that it happened, it seems like it¡¯s time for me to talk with that person.¡±

    Hearing that he would meet up with the person that predicted everything that happened to the actual Aurus, Herellia and Horell could not help but be silent from the shock they felt. Unsurprisingly, not long after, the two of them asked, ¡°Can we bothe with you?¡±

    ¡°Unfortunately, only those that have control over the Lesser Origin or any of its variants can enter it,¡± Aurus replied, shaking his head in response. ¡°However, I¡¯ll tell you how it goes once I get back from the ce. It won¡¯t take long.¡±

    With that, the three of them parted ways as Herellia and Horell returned to help out in the development of the town, focusing on the project rted to creating an academy in the town. As for Aurus, with his increased stats, he was able to quickly leave the town¡¯s walls with the help of his movement speed boosting spells and skills, only stopping after he was around 10 kilometers away from town.

    Looking around to make sure that there was no one watching or tailing him, Aurus eventually let out a sigh of relief as hemanded the system to let him enter the Origin Pantheon. In response, Aurus¡¯s body disappeared from where he stood in an instant, eventually ending up in a ce that he had now be familiar with.

    ¡°Wee to the Origin Pantheon, neer!¡± a person said as Aurus had appeared in the center of the ce where people would first arrive. Looking around to see that Cardis wasn¡¯t the one greeting the neers, he went closer to the man that greeted him and asked, ¡°Do you know where Cardis is?¡±

    ¡°Oh? You know Cardis?¡± The man was surprised to hear such a familiar name to him being spoken out of the mouth of who he first thought was a neer. Realizing that the man that asked him had probably already been here a few times, the man nodded and told Aurus, ¡°He¡¯s probably at the Origin Dens right now. Coincidentally, there¡¯s only a couple of minutes until I have to switch shifts with him. If you¡¯d like, you could wait here until he arrives.¡±

    ¡°Sure, I¡¯d be fine with that.¡± Aurus nodded in response, deciding to sit near the stairs as he did not want to be a hindrance to the neers that actually arrived. Eventually, a few minutes passed by, and soon, a man that Aurus was very familiar with had appeared in his field of vision as the former walked up the stairs, prompting Aurus to stand up with a smile and say, ¡°Cardis! Long time no see!¡±

    ¡°Hmm?¡± Hearing his name being called, Cardis could not help but look at the origin of the sound, noticing a man looking at him with a smile on his face. Quickly sensing the aura surrounding the man, it did not take too long for him to realize who had just greeted him, responding back with great glee. ¡°Oh, Argentum! It¡¯s you! Definitely long time no see!¡±

    ¡°Argentum? Where have I heard that before¡­¡± the man that answered Aurus¡¯s question from before could not help but mutter, only to finally realize where he had heard it as he pointed at Aurus and shouted, ¡°Ah! You¡¯re the Origin Sage!¡±

    ¡°Shh¡­¡± Both Aurus and Cardis quickly shushed the man, knowing very well the aftereffects of saying something like that all of a sudden. Unfortunately, before they could fully silence the man from saying anything else, a few people started to flock towards the Origin Pantheon as they heard the man say those words.

    Letting out a light sigh, Cardis looked at Aurus with a wry smile before asking, ¡°Since it¡¯s partly my fault, how about I make up for it by taking you to the ce where you want to go? Think of me as your personal bodyguard. Hahaha!¡±

    Chuckling in response to his words, Aurus nodded and said, ¡°Since you¡¯re offering, then it would be rude for me to decline. Off to the Origin Dens we go!¡±

    ¡°Origin Dens, eh? You got it!¡± Cardis said in response before looking at the man that was previously greeting the neers of the Origin Pantheon, asking him, ¡°You don¡¯t mind keeping guard over the pantheon for a bit more, right? Altamir?¡±

    Altamir, the man who shouted Aurus¡¯s title out loud, wryly smiled in response, telling Cardis, ¡°Fine, fine, fine. I¡¯ll keep guard for a bit longer. But you bettere back as soon as possible, okay?¡±

    ¡°No promises!¡± Cardis said with a cackle as he unleashed all of his power, quickly dashing past the crowd of people that was starting to head up the stairs leading the Origin Pantheon. Naturally, those people noticed the blur that quickly left the Origin Pantheon, getting a hunch that the Origin Sage was that blur. However, before they could even start to follow it, the blur quickly disappeared from this field of vision, prompting them to give up on chasing him as they slowly returned to where they previously were.

    As for Cardis and Aurus, they decided to hold a conversation as they made their way to the Origin Dens, wanting to catch up on what they¡¯ve missed.

    ¡°Something like that actually happened in Seraph Kingdom?¡± Cardis could not believe what he was listening. ¡°To think two Transcendents were actually that close to facing off against each other¡­ it¡¯s quite surreal.¡±

    ¡°Yeah, even I was surprised when I saw it unfold in front of my very eyes,¡± Aurus said in response. ¡°Ah, right. I almost forgot to tell you that I go by the name Aurus from now on.¡±

    ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll keep that in mind,¡± Cardis nodded after he heard that. ¡°Anything else of great significance I should take note of in the world of Erudinia?¡±

    ¡°Well, the being called The Great Cmity has been captured, so there¡¯s that,¡± Aurus told him. ¡°In any case, that¡¯s all I have. How about you, Cardis? Did anything interesting happen in the Origin Pantheon while I was away?¡±

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡± Cardis pondered in silence for a bit before eventually replying, ¡°There was this time where someone actually got toprehend the Origin to Torvas¡¯s level while you were gone. However, no one has reached your level ofprehension yet.¡±

    ¡°Oh? Now that¡¯s unexpected.¡± Aurus raised his eyebrows in response. ¡°Does anyone know who that person might be?¡±

    Shaking his head in response, Cardis told him, ¡°Unfortunately, no one knows his name. At most, we only know that hees from the Maerr-viki Continent, just like you.¡±

    ¡°Ah. We¡¯re already here,¡± he said not long after, stopping in front of Torvas¡¯s house. Seeing Aurus¡¯s confused expression, Cardis said with a smile, ¡°The only reason why you¡¯d head to the Origin Dens is to find Torvas, right?¡±

    With his intent quickly figured out, Aurus could not help but chuckle, saying, ¡°Thanks for giving me a lift, Cardis.¡±

    ¡°Anytime.¡± After saying that, Cardis quickly left the premises, allowing Aurus toe forward and knock on the door of the house in front of him. Not long after, a person opened the door, asking, ¡°Who is it?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s me. Argentum,¡± Aurus said in response, prompting the person to stand in ce for a bit before letting out a sigh. Gesturing for Aurus to head inside, he then told him, ¡°I had a feeling you¡¯de here sooner orter. Come in.¡±

    With that, Aurus entered Torvas¡¯s house once more, sitting down on the sofa nearby as Torvas asked him, ¡°What would you like to drink?¡±

    ¡°Do you have any strawberry juice?¡± Aurus asked, to which Torvas chuckled as he told him, ¡°I knew you¡¯d say that. Fortunately, I just made a pitcher full of strawberry juice sometime ago.¡±

    Sometimeter, Torvas brought a couple of sses, as well as the pitcher of strawberry juice in front of Aurus, pouring both of them a ss. Drinking a bit from the ss he poured himself, Torvas looked at Aurus with a solemn expression, asking, ¡°So, what happened?¡±

    ¡°Remember the prophecies you gave me back then?¡± Aurus asked, swirling the strawberry juice in his ss. ¡°Well, the first one happened.¡±

    ¡°I figured as much.¡± Torvas wryly smiled in response, scratching his head as he told Aurus, ¡°If you¡¯vee here to ask me if there¡¯s a way to resolve the situation, it¡¯s futile. Unfortunately, my abilities don¡¯t extend that far.¡±

    ¡°I had a feeling you¡¯d say that,¡± Aurus said in response, wryly smiling as well. After that, a silence permeated between the two, with the only sound being the sips they took from the sses of strawberry juice they had. However, Aurus eventually broke the silence, saying, ¡°I won¡¯t ask anything rted to the prophecies for now. Instead, I want to ask something else.¡±

    ¡°As long as I can answer it, I¡¯m all ears,¡± Torvas said, nodding.

    ¡°How did you obtain those prophecies in the first ce?¡± Aurus asked soon after, making Torvas turn silent as a hint of hesitation could be seen on his face. Though, this hesitation disappeared not long after as he let out a soft sigh, saying, ¡°Well, you¡¯ll eventually find this out sooner orter as long as you ask the right people. It won¡¯t hurt for you to know this earlier than usual.¡±

    With that, a serious expression appeared on Torvas¡¯s face as he asked Aurus, ¡°You know very well that the minimum requirement to enter the Origin Pantheon is to have control over Lesser Origin, right?¡±

    ¡°Yeah? What about it?¡± Aurus said in response.

    ¡°Well, what I have control over is a variant of the usual Lesser Origin we know,¡± Torvas replied.

    ¡°To be more specific, Lesser Temporal Origin.¡±  <!--

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 Chapter 432

    Chapter 432: Herald of Fate

    ¡°Lesser Temporal Origin¡­¡± Aurus repeated the words Torvas said to him, rummaging through the memories that both he and the actual Aurus had ess to. However, even after going through all of it for quite some time, the only conclusion he came to was the fact that he was familiar with the word ¡®Temporal.¡¯

    ¡°I¡¯ve heard of the word somewhere before, but I don¡¯t really know what it means,¡± he said not long after, to which Torvas lightly smiled in response, telling him, ¡°It¡¯s fine, it¡¯s fine. The word temporal is something you wouldn¡¯t hear that often anyway. However, what if I told you that the word was rted to time?¡±

    ¡°Time?¡± Hearing that, it seemed as if everything had finally clicked in Aurus¡¯s mind. ¡°Lesser Temporal Origin¡­ so that means you have control over the element of Fire, Wind, Water, Earth¡­ and Time. Did you get those prophecies you gave me through this?¡±

    ¡°Yeah.¡± Torvas nodded. ¡°As it¡¯s a type of element rted to the Origin, it¡¯s way better than controlling the element of Time alone. After all, tackling Time as a whole is quiteplicated, especially when it involves seeing the multiple futures that a being has.¡±

    ¡°Multiple futures? Isn¡¯t there only one future?¡± Although Aurus believed that the future was up to the actions and deeds he did right now, making it uncertain, he was sure that the future only had one possibility, the one forged by his own actions. However, from how Torvas phrased it to him, there seemed to be more.

    Fortunately, Torvas exined everything to Aurus, nodding in response to his question as he replied, ¡°On one hand, it¡¯s correct to say that there¡¯s only one future¡­ but on the other, it¡¯s also wrong to say that there¡¯s only one. To be more specific, there is only one future that you have ess to. However, there exists multiple futures alongside it that branch off, with each new future being made once you make a decision. These other futures are called false futures. After all, if you didn¡¯t make a certain decision, wouldn¡¯t it be wrong to say that one of the false futures is your actual future?¡±

    As Aurus listened to his exnation, he could not help but feel like he understood it, yet at the same not. With that, he could not help but ask, ¡°Could you give me an example so I could better wrap my head around it?¡±

    ¡°Alright.¡± Torvas nodded, bing silent for a bit. ¡°Think of it this way. You¡¯re walking down the street until you see a gold coin all of a sudden. At that moment, you think to yourself whether to grab that gold coin or not. However, that thought also formed two possible futures: one where you take the gold coin and continue walking, and one where you don¡¯t and continue walking. If you chose to take the gold coin, the future where you take the gold coin is your real future and the future where you don¡¯t take it is the false future.¡±

    ¡°Of course, the same applies vice versa. If you don¡¯t take the gold coin, then the real future bes the future where you don¡¯t take the gold coin, while the false future is the future where you do take it.¡± Taking in a quick breath, he then asked Aurus, ¡°Does that clear things up?¡±

    ¡°Yeah, it does.¡± Aurus nodded, only to bring up another question. ¡°Then¡­ doesn¡¯t that mean that you had to look at a great number of false futures to make the prophecies you gave me?¡±

    ¡°Unfortunately, that is indeed the case,¡± Torvas replied, slightly shuddering at the thought. ¡°To form those prophecies in the first ce, not only did I look into your future, I also looked into the future of your original body. I think I looked into over 30,000 futures in total between you two to arrive at those prophecies I gave you.¡±

    ¡°However, that¡¯s not the important part here,¡± he continued, sporting a solemn expression as he told Argentum, ¡°The important part here is the fact that your original body had the same end in all of those 30,000 futures. In fact, up to that point, your futures also all had the same end, where you woulde to the Origin Pantheon and look for me.¡±

    ¡°Eh?¡± Aurus could not help but lean back in surprise after hearing that. After all, Torvas just exined to him that all of the other futures were what-if scenarios wherein he took a different choice. For all of those futures to have the same end seemed incredibly weird and bizarre to him. ¡°Surely not all of them show the same end, right?¡±

    ¡°Indeed, not all of them did show the same end.¡± Torvas nodded in response. ¡°However,pared to 30,000 futures, only about 200 to 300 showed a different future, which was actually not that different from the end all the other futures had. At most, the only difference was the time it happened.¡±

    Hearing that, Aurus could not help but fall silent as he tried to process this new piece of information he had just received. If even the false futures Torvas mentioned showed that the actual Aurus would be taken away by Kurohana at the very end, then didn¡¯t that just prove the point that his original body was being led on by Kurohana all along?

    Of course, Torvas didn¡¯t know that at all. Instead, he perceived his silence as a type of sadness after realizing. With that, he could not help but try tofort Aurus by saying, ¡°I¡¯m sorry. The element of Time is a hard element to manipte, so I can only see through so many futures at once. If I had control over the element of Space and form the element of Lesser Spatiotemporal Origin, I would have probably been able to look at not just a hundred thousand futures, perhaps a million futures wouldn¡¯t be far-fetched.¡±

    ¡°Unfortunately, it has already happened, so there¡¯s no point in me saying this.¡± Soon after, Torvas could not help but be sad as well, letting out a sigh before drinking about half of the strawberry juice in his ss.

    At that moment, Aurus thought that there was no point mulling over it, lest he wanted to end up like himselfst night. With that, he ced the thought at the back of his head and changed the topic into something that also had something to do with Torvas.

    Clearing his throat to catch Torvas¡¯s attention, Aurus said to him, ¡°There¡¯s no point feeling bad about it. After all, it has already happened. However, now that I think about it, there¡¯s something I should have asked you far before you gave me the prophecies.¡±

    ¡°Surely, someone in my shoes would have been suspicious at first, but I wasn¡¯t. With that in mind¡­¡±

    ¡°Why did you give me those prophecies in the first ce?¡±

    Hearing that, Torvas could not help but smile, making Aurus feel like he was already expecting a question like this to be asked. Thinking that way, Aurus could not help but mutter inwardly, ¡®It feels weird to have your every move be predicted beforehand by another person.¡¯

    ¡°Do you want the short answer, or the long answer?¡± Torvas asked in response, to which Aurus replied, ¡°Give me the long answer.¡±

    Nodding, Torvas took in a deep breath before asking Aurus, ¡°Have you ever thought for a bit as to why someone like me would dabble in the art of divination, even going so far as toprehend the Origin just to see a bit more of the future?¡±

    Fortunately, Aurus quickly caught on to what he was hinting, saying in response, ¡°Is it because of your ss?¡±

    ¡°Correct. It is indeed because of my ss.¡± Torvas nodded, a satisfied smile appearing on his face. ¡°However, if you were to think that my ss is rted to divination, then you would be wrong. It would be more correct to say that divination is just a small part of my ss.¡±

    ¡°As we have a sort of special rtionship, let me tell you right now that my ss is Herald of Fate,¡± he continued, to which Aurus lightly nodded in response, a solemn expression appearing on his face. From how the ss sounded, it did not take long for Aurus toe to the conclusion that Torvas was probably more important than he initially thought.

    ¡°Herald of Fate, Harbinger of Destiny, Seer of the Futures, this ss may be known by many names, yet its purpose is one and the same,¡± Torvas said. ¡°To guide those blessed by fate, as well as give fate to those who are shunned. Though, it¡¯s not impossible for people with my ss to be the voice of fate as well.¡±

    ¡°And what does that have to do with giving me those prophecies?¡± Aurus could not help but say in response, subconsciously feeling that he was going to hear something that he wouldn¡¯t like.

    ¡°I¡¯m just getting to that point,¡± Torvas said with a smile. ¡°As I¡¯ve mentioned before, we have a sort of special rtionship.¡±

    ¡°Is it because I took over your position as an Origin Sage?¡± Aurus asked in response.

    ¡°That has nothing to do with this special rtionship.¡± Torvas shook his head. ¡°Instead, the fact that almost all of your false futures show the same end is enough proof that we have a special rtionship.¡±

    ¡°After all, only a select few people would have that kind of false future. They¡¯re called¡­¡±

    ¡°The Gatherers of Fate.¡±

    ¡°¡­¡±

    ¡°¡­I knew my gut instincts were right. I already hate hearing it.¡±  <!--

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 Chapter 433

    Chapter 433: The Weight of One¡¯s Decisions

    After a moment of awkward silence spread between the two of them, Aurus eventually let out a long sigh as he asked, ¡°So, what are the Gatherers of Fate?¡±

    ¡°Well, although they¡¯re called the Gatherers of Fate, it would be better to say that they are where fate congregates,¡± Torvas replied. ¡°Of course, I don¡¯t mean it literally, but every action they do have a great impact on other people¡¯s fates, either for better or for worse.¡±

    ¡°Then again, not all Gatherers of Fate have as great of an impact as others. Some could only affect a small group of people with their actions, while some could affect continents, worlds, perhaps even a gxy¡¯s worth of people with their actions,¡± he continued.

    ¡°Since you say that, what category do I fall into?¡± Aurus could not help but ask in response, getting the feeling that he would fall into thetter category. Fortunately, that did not happen as Torvas exined, ¡°In your current state, you¡¯d only be able to affect a small group of people. Then again, something like this is mostly measured once one is a Transcendent, so it isn¡¯t certain that your actions would still only affect a small group in the future.¡±

    ¡°As long as it only affects a few people for now, that¡¯s good¡­ I think,¡± Aurus said in response, inwardly letting out a sigh of relief. After all, just the fact of knowing that he had the possibility to affect the lives of many people with just one careless move of his was quite nerve-wracking. If it was any other person or being, they would have definitely crumbled from the anxiety brought by that statement.

    Moving on, the Heralds of Fate act as a guide for the Gatherers of Fate. Well, to be more exact, we correct the wrongs of the Gatherers, allowing them to get back on the right track,¡± Torvas continued exining. ¡°They also allow us to be more in touch with the element of Fate itself, bolstering our abilities as a Herald.¡±

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡± After Torvas was finished exining, Aurus could not help but be silent as he tried to sum up his words. ¡°So, if I¡¯m getting this right, the reason why you gave me those prophecies in the first ce is because I¡¯m a Gatherer of Fate.¡±

    ¡°Correct.¡± Torvas nodded.

    ¡°And since a Gatherer of Fate allows you to connect with the element of Fate more, you want to form a rtionship with me, which would allow you to be a stronger Herald of Fate, correct?¡± Aurus continued, to which Torvas wryly smiled in response. ¡°Although you exined it in a perspective where it seems like I¡¯m exploiting you, that is correct, yes.¡±

    ¡°Well, I guess that makes sense.¡± Aurus shrugged his shoulders, deciding to not think much about it. After all, fate was something that was way out of reach right now. Plus, it wouldn¡¯t make much difference for him right now if he thought about it.

    ¡®Though, the fact still stands that I have to consider my actions from now on,¡¯ he thought to himself, remembering that his decisions now held substantial weight behind them. Well, they already held some weight before as he was the leader of the town, but it just increased due to him finding out he was a Gatherer of Fate.

    ¡®Or would it be better to just let things happen when they happen?¡¯ As he thought of this, another thought popped up into his mind, prompting him to ask Torvas, ¡°Now that I think about it, is Gatherer of Fate a ss?¡±

    ¡°Nope.¡± Torvas shook his head. ¡°It¡¯s just what we like to call those who have been given more importance by fate.¡±

    ¡°Given more importance, huh.¡± With that in mind, the two of them conversed for a bit more regarding other things, with Aurus even asking Torvas for some advice on the development of this town. Surprisingly, Torvas gave him great advice as he actually used to be the leader of a city back then. By the time their conversation was over, the pitcher of strawberry juice was empty.

    Looking at Torvas with a smile, Aurus told him, ¡°Thanks for the advice, Torvas. I¡¯ll probablye back here next time when I¡¯m unsure of something. Or perhaps, it might go the other way around.¡±

    Chuckling, Torvas responded, ¡°Perhaps. Nevertheless, I¡¯ll most likely be here when you need me. After all, I can see part of your futures.¡±

    ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll be leaving now,¡± Aurus said soon after, waving goodbye as he utilized all of his movement speed boosting spells and skills to head back to the Origin Pantheon as soon as possible. As for Torvas, who watched Aurus¡¯s silhouette gradually disappear from his field of vision, he could not help but mutter, ¡°I wonder how the world will turn out now that Argentum knows of his role.¡±

    ¡°Oh wait. He told me he changed his name to Aurus.¡±

    ¡­

    With Aurus evolving to Grand-grade, it only took him around an hour or so to get back at the Origin Pantheon, seeing that Cardis was greeting the neers that had arrived from time to time. As Aurus¡¯s silhouette appeared in Cardis¡¯s field of vision, thetter could not help but look at him and ask with a smile, ¡°So, how did it go with Torvas?¡±

    ¡°I think I¡¯m going to be leaving this ce with more questions rather than answers,¡± Aurus said in response, letting out a wry chuckle. ¡°In any case, he did clear up some of the doubts I have in mind.¡±

    ¡°Speaking of which, where did that Altamir guy go?¡± he asked not long after, to which Cardis responded, ¡°Oh, that guy that greeted you before I arrived? He¡¯s probably at the Origin Statue right now, trying to increase hisprehension of the Origin.¡±

    ¡°I see.¡± Aurus nodded in response. ¡°Well, by the next time Ie here, I would probably look drastically different than before.¡±

    ¡°Well, I did notice that you evolved to Grand-grade while we were heading to the Origin Dens, so it wouldn¡¯t be surprising if you came back here with greater power than before,¡± Cardis said in response, prompting Aurus¡¯s eyes to widen in surprise from his words. Though, not long after, he let out a peal ofughter, to which Cardis let outughter as well.

    After exchanging a few more words of farewell, Aurus eventually left the Origin Pantheon, appearing at the spot where he was sometime ago. With the time difference between the Origin Pantheon and the world of Erudinia, around half an hour had only passed since then.

    Checking once more to see if no one was following or tailing him, Aurus eventually returned to Verdant Breeze Town at his fastest speed, heading straight for the manor where he and a few others lived.

    While he was making his way up, he could not help bute across Delmann, who seemed to be carrying a small stack of documents with him. Stopping him for a bit, Aurus told him, ¡°Delmann, inform the important personnel that we¡¯ll be holding an important meeting about a week or so from now. At thetest, it would be two weeks for now.¡±

    ¡°Understood, Sir Argentum.¡± Delmann nodded in response. ¡°Would it be possible if you could tell me what we¡¯re going to talk about during that meeting?¡±

    With a smile, Aurus replied, ¡°The town¡¯s new development n.¡±

    Hearing that, Delmann seemed to have drunk some sort of tonic as he said with great enthusiasm, ¡°Is that so, Sir Argentum? I¡¯ll make sure to inform the others as soon as possible.¡±

    And with that, he quickly left the manor, leaving Aurus in a daze for a bit before letting out a light chuckle as he soon entered his room.

    Even though it was still empty, he sat down in the center of the room as he circted a bit of his energy towards a certain spot in his body. After a while, this spot seemed to connect to four other beings, prompting Aurus to say, ¡°I would like to tell you guys something.¡±

    Ignoring the silence he received from the others, he continued, ¡°I apologize for my behaviorst night. It was only yesterday did I receive the news of that event, so I nned that meeting, I still hadn¡¯te to grips with what had happened. Of course, I don¡¯t want to say that I havee to grips with it right now, but it¡¯s just that I¡¯ve thoroughly mulled over it. With that, I hope all of you can forgive me.¡±

    ¡°And here we thought Aurus wouldn¡¯t apologize,¡± Eleanor said soon after Aurus was finished talking, making the other three chuckle in response. Just as Aurus was about to ask them in confusion, Rosalia decided to take the initiative, telling him, ¡°We had a feeling you weren¡¯t youst night, so we didn¡¯t take those words to heart. After all, every being would go across those grievous events from time to time. Nevertheless, it seems that you¡¯ve returned, so tell us your ns, Aurus.¡±

    ¡°Well, for the most part, it doesn¡¯t really detract from the n I¡¯ve mentionedst night,¡± Aurus responded. ¡°Once I be an Animate, my goal is to be a Super Animate, or better yet, an Ultra Animate. After I achieve that, Verdant Breeze Town will undergo a massive expansion, possibly bing a giant city by the end of it.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s nice to see that my greatest fan is quite ambitious. However, how are you going to be a Super Animate? Or even an Ultra Animate? After all, from the tone of your voice, it seems that you aim to be one as fast as possible,¡± Helios said in response, his tone slightly suspicious of what Aurus is nning to do.

    ¡°Well, I¡¯ll probably take 200 million gold coins from the Rank 9 Mana Stone we sold for me, Herellia, and Horell, utilizing that to buy the resources we need to quickly get stronger. However, there¡¯s something I¡¯m relying on that would allow to obtain the resources even millions and millions of gold can¡¯t buy,¡± Aurus replied.

    ¡°And that would be¡­?¡± Helios asked in response.

    With a light chuckle, Aurus told them.

    ¡°The Seraph Kingdom¡¯s war for the throne!¡±   <!--

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 Chapter 434

    Chapter 434: Heading Out

    ¡°The Seraph Kingdom¡¯s war for the throne?¡± Hearing that phrasee out of Aurus¡¯s mouth, all four could not help but raise their eyebrows in response. After all, it wasn¡¯t often would they hear something like this, even more so that they¡¯ve lived for a very long time already.

    Then again, the main reason why all of them had their eyebrows raised was due to the fact that all four of them had been keeping tabs on this specific piece of news, wondering how it would eventually turn out. After all, the oue of something like that would shift in a massive power bnce, which might affect the state of their inheritances. However, as they¡¯re not affiliated with any of the kingdoms, they did not have to care about it that much.

    Though that did not mean they had no interest in the matter.

    Nevertheless, the four of them could not help but think of Aurus¡¯s n from a different perspective. After all, to incorporate such a massive event into something like that would only be done by people with high confidence and belief that they would be able to pull it off.

    As for Aurus, he could not help but think twice as to whether it would be fine to add this part into his n as he did not have that much information on it. Then again, with the informationwork he had formed back then updating him news of where the actual Aurus was every minute, there was bound to be some times where it was at a lull, so he asked them to bring back information regarding important news rted to the Seraph Kingdom.

    Among the pieces of news he had received from thework was rted to the war for the throne. Though, once he received them, he could not help but feel like there was something missing, as if a part of it was shrouded. However, what he did not realize was that he had actually obtained far more information than anyyperson would in the kingdom, even more so whenpared to organizations that normally coted information regarding things like these.

    Of course, he would only realize this in the future, but that¡¯s for another time.

    Turning silent for a bit as he mulled over the thought, a sudden train of thought appeared in Aurus¡¯s mind that seemed to connect very well with what he had to say, eventually telling the others, ¡°Indeed, I¡¯ll be using the opportunity given by the Seraph Kingdom¡¯s war for the throne to obtain some of the priceless resources that I and the other two would need along the way. Though, you might be wondering, how would we be able to join the war for the throne in the first ce?¡±

    Taking in a deep breath, he continued, ¡°What we¡¯ll do is join the most prestigious academy in Seraph Kingdom, the Thymesis Institute for Combat and Magic Arts. Of course, we can¡¯t head there straight away, so we¡¯d have to enter a city-level academy first, then head up to a provincial-level academy. Only with that kind of background would we be able to that academy.¡±

    ¡°In any case, once everything goes well and the n rted to the war for the throne seeds, we¡¯ll basically be hitting two birds with one stone. On one hand, I would be able to obtain precious resources that would normally takes months or even years to find, and on the other, I would be able to have the backing of a prince behind me, allowing me to expand the town without much problems. If I get lucky, the prince that¡¯s backing me might even be a king, allowing the town to expand even further and perhaps even reach the size of a province.¡±

    ¡°Then again, I¡¯ve heard rumors that there¡¯s a chance of death once one joins the war for the throne, so only I would actually join the war for the throne. As for Horell and Herellia, they would only apany me up to the part where we join the top academy,¡± he concluded.

    After Aurus was finished talking, the four could not help but be silent. They were silent because ording to what Aurus had told them, there were pieces of news that they hadn¡¯t even obtained before!

    Letting out a light sigh, Felix could not help but ask him, ¡°How is the most prestigious academy of the Seraph Kingdom rted to the war for the throne? What was it again? The Time something¡­¡±

    ¡°The Thymesis Institute for Combat and Magic Arts,¡± Aurus rified. ¡°ording to the information I¡¯ve coted in my spare time back then, a few of the princes participating in the war for the throne are nning to have some of the top performing students join their teams in preparation for the war for the throne.¡±

    He then added, ¡°However, as there¡¯s still a little bit over half a year until the war for the throne actually starts, they¡¯re only waiting for the approval of the king of the Seraph Kingdom, which told that they would be able to grab students from that academy around one to two months before it actually begins.¡±

    ¡°I see¡­¡± was all that Felix could muster out. As for the remaining three, they could not even say anything at all. At most, the information they had regarding the war for the throne only extended to the fact that it would happen in about half a year from now. Then again, as inheritance owners, it wasn¡¯t a surprise that they only needed that much information.

    Eventually, the four of them came to the conclusion that they wouldn¡¯t be able to help out Aurus in this n of his, deciding to change the topic as Rosalia said, ¡°Well, we don¡¯t see any problem with that n of yours¡­ however, after the war for the throne, what will you do?¡±

    ¡°At that point in time, I would have probably be a Super Animate, so I would probably take a short break from bing stronger and use that break time to help Verdant Breeze Town expand to Verdant Breeze City,¡± Aurus replied, only to recall something else as he told them, ¡°Ah, right. I almost forgot that I¡¯m nning to build an academy for the town to make them more knowledgeable. Well, it¡¯s also preparation for the expansion of the town, but that¡¯s not important.¡±

    ¡°What¡¯s important are the instructors in the academy,¡± he continued. ¡°If I remember correctly, I asked Felix and Eleanor to find some mages that would be willing to teach in the academy.¡±

    Focusing his attention onto Helios and Rosalia, he then told him, ¡°If it¡¯s possible, I would like you two to findbat instructors, schrs, as well as skilled workers that would be able to teach in the academy. With that, there would be four divisions in the academy: a magic division, abat division, a literature division, and a skilled craft division.¡±

    ¡°I think I can find you some skilled workers willing to teach,¡± Helios said in response after a bit of silence.

    ¡°I can find some willing schrs. Just give me a bit of time.¡± Soon after, Rosalia responded to Aurus¡¯s request.

    ¡°Well, you only asked Felix to find some mages. With that, let me be the one to findbat instructors for the academy,¡± Eleanor said not long after, prompting Aurus to nod as he said, ¡°It would be great if they would also be willing to teach the military a thing or two.¡±

    ¡°You got it!¡± Eleanor replied, letting out a light chuckle as she said to herself, ¡°Off to an adventure I go!¡±

    Hearing those words could not help but make Aurus and the other three shudder for some reason. However, after discussing a few more things, the meeting between the five of them was finished as they talked about a lot of things rted not only to the town¡¯s improvement, but Aurus¡¯s own improvement as well.

    Standing up to look out of the window, he noticed that a couple of hours had passed since he started talking with the four. After that, he stretched his body for a bit as he went outside the manor, heading to where Herellia and Horell were. ¡°It¡¯s time for me to proceed with the very first step of the n.¡±

    With the assistance of his movement speed boosting spells and skills, it did not take that long for him to arrive at where they were, which was the same ce they were at before Aurus left to head to the Origin Pantheon.

    Seeing Aurus appear in front of them once more, the two could not help but look at him as Horell asked, ¡°So, how did it go?¡±

    ¡°It went well, I think,¡± Aurus replied, scratching his head as he chuckled. ¡°I also talked to the four beforeing here.¡±

    ¡°Well, that sounds nice,¡± Herellia said with a nod. ¡°So, what¡¯s the great town leader doing here? Is he that bored to leave the manor and converse with us?¡±

    ¡°Naturally, there¡¯s that part, but I¡¯m here to ask you something,¡± Aurus said in response, soon asking them, ¡°Would you like to apany me on a journey just like the old times?¡±

    ¡°Oh?¡± Hearing that they were going to head out of town, the two of them could not help but raise their eyebrows in interest. Noticing this, Aurus continued, ¡°The goal of this journey is for us to gain enoughbat experience, as well as push myself to the peak of Grand-grade in order for me to transition into an Animate.¡±

    He then looked at Horell before continuing with a light smile, ¡°Of course, we¡¯re also going to make Horell reach the peak of Grand-grade as well.¡±

    ¡°So, how about it? Would you like to join me?¡±

    For a moment, Horell and Herellia looked at each other in silence, then at Aurus. Just as Aurus thought that he was going to have to this solo, a grin appeared on both of their faces as they replied in unison.

    ¡°Have you ever thought of us saying no to that?¡±

    Chuckling at their words, he replied with full sincerity, ¡°Not even one bit.¡±  <!--

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 Chapter 435

    Chapter 435: The Road for Animates

    Later that night¡­

    ¡°And that more or less sums up what I want you to do while I¡¯m gone,¡± Aurus said with a solemn expression. ¡°In any case, just make sure everything that¡¯s progressing so far continues as nned.¡±

    After that, he went silent for a bit as he pondered over something, eventually adding, ¡°Hmm¡­ now that I think about it, allocate a bit more of our workforce towards finding more ore veins.¡±

    ¡°Is there a specific reason for that, sir?¡± Delmann asked.

    ¡°Although we still have a lot of gold coins left over after the incident, we¡¯ll still run out of it eventually,¡± Aurus replied. ¡°It¡¯s better if we establish a stable source of ie for the town while we still have the leeway to do so.¡±

    ¡°As you wish, sir.¡± Delmann could only nod in response,mitting his words to memory.

    ¡°Well, with that out of the way, did you get that thing I asked you to get earlier?¡± Aurus asked soon after.

    In response, Delmann rummaged out a rolled-up parchment from his pocket before giving it to Aurus. ¡°Fortunately, we were able to grab a map of the surrounding areas from one of the nearby cities. Although most of the information on the settlements are shallow, the information on the surrounding forests are incredibly detailed.¡±

    Nodding, Aurus opened up the parchment for himself, looking at the crude yet somewhat detailed map drawn on it. Lightly smiling in satisfaction, he rolled it up once more before looking at Delmann. ¡°Good work as always, Delmann.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m just doing my job, Sir Argentum. After all, you¡¯ve done so much for the town.¡± Delmann could not help but smile as well. ¡°Though, if anyone asks for you while you¡¯re gone, what should we say?¡±

    Rubbing his chin for a bit, Aurus replied, ¡°Tell them that I¡¯m away to settle some personal matters. If they ask how long I¡¯m gone for, tell them that I¡¯ll be gone for a month at most.¡±

    ¡°Oh, and also, inform Valstra and the others about my temporary departure as well,¡± he added.

    ¡°Will that be all, sir?¡± Delmann asked in response, to which Aurus nodded. With their conversationing to an end, the former respectfully bowed to Aurus before leaving the room.

    With Aurus now left alone, he could not help but let out a long sigh as he gazed out of the window. Seeing the night life in the town he had helped improve, a feeling of satisfaction welled up inside him as he chuckled. ¡°Even though I¡¯ve somewhat gotten used to it, managing a town is still as hard as ever.¡±

    ¡°In any case, this time will probably be thest time I¡¯ll be more or less free. After this, everything I do will have something to do with the town¡¯s development.¡± With a satisfied smile stered on his face, he sat cross-legged on top of his bed before closing his eyes, attuning himself to the elements in the surroundings.

    ¡°Gotta make the most out of it while itsts.¡±

    ¡­

    Morning.

    As the sun was just peeking out of the horizon, Aurus left the manor, feeling refreshed and energized. Making his way to one of the houses situated near the town¡¯s center, he went ahead and knocked on its door. Soon, the door was opened, revealing two people, with one of them still somewhat sleepy.

    ¡°Got any sleep?¡± Aurus asked as he entered the house, prompting Herellia to lightly frown. ¡°Why¡¯d you have to wake us up so early?¡±

    ¡°To make the most out of the day, of course,¡± replied Aurus. After that, he looked at the other person in the house. ¡°In any case, you¡¯re the only one who doesn¡¯t want to get up yet. Horell¡¯s already ready to head out.¡±

    Hearing that, Horell could not help but stifle a chuckle. In response, Herellia could only curse the two. ¡°Fuck you. Just because you two are still Pseudo-Animates doesn¡¯t mean you could mock me for wanting to sleep more.¡±

    ¡°I had a feeling you were gonna say that.¡± Aurus smiled before looking outside the window, his smile widening as he noticed a few people heading to the house. ¡°So, to make up for it, I asked a few of the townspeople to whip up some breakfast for you.¡±

    Coincidentally, by the time he was finished speaking, a couple of people entered the house carrying a small assortment of food that instantly made Herellia¡¯s stomach rumble. Thanking the people who carried the food, Aurus then asked Horell if he¡¯d like to take a walk with him as the townspeople left. Slightly confused, Horell epted his offer as the two left Herellia on her own.

    ¡°What¡¯s the walk for?¡± Horell could not help but ask.

    ¡°Herellia¡¯s gonna take a while to finish eating anyway, so why not go for a walk?¡± Aurusughed. ¡°In any case, I wanted to ask you something.¡±

    ¡°Ask away, Aurus. I¡¯m all ears,¡± Horell replied.

    ¡°Remember what I said a couple of days ago? Where I gave you an offer to be an Animate like Herellia?¡± Aurus said, to which Horell nodded. ¡°Yeah?¡±

    ¡°Yeah, I was going to ask about that. Although you told me yesterday if the offer was still avable, which still is, I just wanted to make sure if you were actually serious about taking me up on that offer. After all, bing an Animate changes a lot of things for you,¡± Aurus asked.

    Horell went silent after that, mulling over it as they walked through the town¡¯s streets. Eventually, with a wry smile on his face, he looked at Aurus and said, ¡°Well, I don¡¯t really have much of a reason to stay as a Pseudo-Animate if you¡¯re nning to be an Animate.¡±

    ¡°Plus, I kind of like the idea of getting stronger together.¡± Aurus could only sling his arm over Horell¡¯s shoulder after that as they walked for a bit more around town. By the time the sun had fully gone past the horizon, the two went back to the house the two were staying, only to find Herellia with a satisfied smile on her face as the tes of food were seemingly licked clean.

    Not minding her ravenous appetite, Aurus then gave the two time to prepare as he told them that they would be out in the wilderness for a while. A few minutester, the two of them told him that they were ready to head out, prompting him to cast his movement speed boosting skills and spells on all three of them. In fact, Horell even cast a couple spells of his own, further amplifying their movement speed for the journey that was about toe.

    Taking a cursory nce at the map Delmann had brought himst night, the three of them then left the town, heading towards arge forest situated a couple dozen kilometers away from Verdant Breeze Town.

    ¡­

    As they had gone for a more leisurely pace, the trio had arrived at the periphery of this forest a couple of hourster, stopping to look at the map he brought, then at the map from the system to double check if they were at the right ce. Certain that they were, Aurus went ahead and took the lead as they delved deeper into the forest, leaving the two no choice but to follow him from behind.

    Around ten minutester, the three had stopped at a small clearing,ing to a consensus that this clearing would be their temporary base while they increased theirbat experience. Well, to be more exact, Herellia was going to increase her proficiency with her skills, while Horell and Aurus aimed to reach the peak of Grand-grade, as well as bring up their skills to the peak.

    ¡°So, before we go our separate ways, I just want to exin something,¡± Aurus said, making the twoe a bit closer to him as they were slightly curious.

    Looking at Herellia, he continued, ¡°Well, this exnation would benefit Herellia the most, but there¡¯s no problem if you want to listen in as well, Horell.¡±

    Getting a light nod from Horell in response, he then exined, ¡°So, since both of us have a system, I¡¯m sure you¡¯re familiar with how we strengthen our skills, right?¡±

    Nodding, Herellia replied, ¡°Yeah. Just using the skill over and over again until it improves.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m sure the same thing applies to you even though you don¡¯t have a system, Horell,¡± Aurus said after that, to which Horell lightly nodded. ¡°More or less. Herellia did tell me a thing or two about it in the past.¡±

    ¡°Alright, with that in mind, do you think it¡¯s the same for Animates?¡± he asked soon after, to which the two looked at each other before simultaneously nodding their heads. ¡°It should be, no?¡±

    ¡°Unfortunately, it¡¯s not.¡± Aurus shook his head. ¡°For Animates to improve their skills, sure, they could repeatedly use it. However, that¡¯s not the main method of improving their skills. Instead, they have to increase something called mastery.¡±

    ¡°Herellia, mind telling me what skills you have ess to at the moment?¡± he asked.

    ¡°Two skills. An active skill named [Blood Maniption] and a passive skill named [Inferior Blood Affinity],¡± replied Herellia without hesitation.

    Nodding in response to her words, he then asked, ¡°Could you identify [Blood Maniption] for me? After you do, tell me what¡¯s written beside the phrase ¡®Mastery Level¡¯.¡±

    Slightly confused yet curious as to why Aurus asked her to do all of this, she went ahead and did what was asked, prompting a small screen to appear in front of her field of vision. Reading through it for a bit, she then found the part Aurus was asking her to look at. ¡°ording to the system, my mastery level of the skill is Novice.¡±

    ¡°Can you check if you could see the mastery levels after Novice?¡± Aurus asked, to which Herellia nodded aftermanding the system a couple of times. ¡°After Novice, it goes Adept, Veteran, then Expert.¡±

    Hearing Herellia¡¯s words, Aurus could not help but let out an inward sigh of relief. After all, what he had done just now was confirm if the information he had gotten from the original Aurus regarding ISE was still applicable for the Animate stage. And from the looks of it, it did.

    Grabbing the attention of the two, Aurus continued his exnation. ¡°To sum things up, your mastery level dictates how proficient you are in using the skill. Novice level means you¡¯ve just started to use the skill, while Adept means you¡¯ve more or less gotten used to using the skill.

    ¡°Veteran means you¡¯ve more or less understood how the skill works, allowing you to make slight modifications, while Expert goes beyond that, with the skill looking far different from how it originally is whenpared to someone who has the same skill at the previous three levels.¡±

    ¡°Now what if I told you that there were a few more levels after Expert?¡±  <!--

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 Chapter 436

    Chapter 436: A Couple Weeks

    However, before Aurus could continue his monologue, the two of them stopped him. Slightly frowning just as he was about to get to the good part, he quickly noticed the confused expressions written all over the pair¡¯s faces, now understanding why they stopped him.

    Seeing Aurus go silent, the two could not help but let out an inward sigh of relief as Herellia told him, ¡°I know you¡¯re eager to exin that ¡®mastery¡¯ thing to both of us, but could you exin it to us in a way that we would both understand? Remember, I¡¯m actually going to need to remember it since I¡¯m the only one here among us three who has to go through it.¡±

    ¡°Yeah, my bad.¡± Aurus scratched his head as he wryly smiled in response. ¡°I got too engrossed for a bit there.¡±

    After that, he went silent once more, rubbing his chin as he pondered over the best way to exin the concept of mastery levels to the two. Eventually, a good idea surfaced in his mind, prompting him to look at the two with renewed vigor as he said, ¡°Alright, I¡¯ve got an idea on how I¡¯ll exin it to you two. So, I¡¯ve mentioned earlier that there are four mastery levels: Novice, Adept, Veteran, and Expert.¡±

    With the two nodding in response, Aurus went ahead and continued. ¡°Let me put it this way. We¡¯ll be using the skill [Water Maniption] as an example. For someone who¡¯s at the Novice mastery level, the most they could do is conjure a small ball of water and throw it. On top of that, it takes about ten seconds or so for them to conjure that ball.¡±

    ¡°Now, we move onto the Adept level. Once someone is at the Adept mastery level, the speed at which they can conjure those water balls would be faster, only taking them a couple of seconds or so. Not only that, but the size of their water balls would also be bigger. In some cases, they could even dictate where the water ball will head toward.¡±

    ¡°Following so far?¡± he asked before he continued onto thest two levels. Seeing them nod in understanding, Aurus nodded back in response before continuing where he left off.

    ¡°Now, a person with [Water Maniption] at Veteran level would not only be able to createrge water balls almost instantaneously, they could even have it take different shapes. Want something with more prative power? Create a water spear. Want to bind someone in ce? Create some water rope. But of course, there¡¯s a limit to this modification, which is being limited to simple shapes. Nevertheless, the skill at Veteran level mastery is already multiple times more versatile than the skill at Adept level mastery.¡±

    ¡°With that in mind, [Water Maniption] at Expert level mastery would be like looking at another skill altogether. Once you have a skill at this mastery level, you could say that you could modify this skill as much as you want. Want to create a water dragon that attacks on its own? You could do that with the skill at this level. Want to create a tsunami out of thin air? You can definitely do that and even more at this level. In fact, this is the minimum mastery level needed in order for you to evolve a skill to the next grade.¡±

    ¡°So, anything else you want me to rify?¡± Wrapping up his exnation for now, Aurus asked the two. Unexpectedly, Herellia lightly nodded, asking him, ¡°How do you reach the higher mastery levels?¡±

    ¡°Repetitive usage,¡± Aurus replied, prompting expressions of confusion to appear on the pair¡¯s faces. Seeing that, he rified, ¡°However, it¡¯s not in the way you think. Instead, you repeatedly use it to gain a deeper understanding of the skill itself. You repeatedly use it to understand every part of the skill you¡¯re using, from how you activate it, to how much energy you consume, to what you could improve, so on and so forth. Eventually, after fully understanding it, you can make modifications to it, allowing it to exude greater power. That¡¯s what the Veteran and Expert levels of mastery signify.¡±

    Naturally, the two of them could not help but be curious as to how Aurus hade across this knowledge. Though, after recalling how he had the ability to call powerful beings whenever and wherever he wanted, it didn¡¯t take long for them to connect the dots on their own.

    ¡°Any other questions?¡± Aurus asked yet again. This time, it was Horell who asked. ¡°You mentioned in your monologue¡ª I mean, in passing a while ago that there were a few more levels after Expert. What are they?¡±

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡± Hearing the question, Aurus pondered over it for a bit, wondering if it would be good for them to know. After all, in his memories, those who had achieved a mastery level beyond Expert for their skills were as rare as phoenix feathers. In the end, he was unsure if achieving something like that was as rare in this world as it was in ISE, so he decided to y it safe for now and only introduce the level after Expert.

    ¡°Well, now that I¡¯ve mulled over it, there¡¯s not much point in telling you the levels beyond Expert since the chances of anyone having a mastery level beyond Expert for a skill is very low as far as I¡¯ve heard. Nevertheless, there¡¯s still a chance youe across one, so let me tell you whates after Expert.¡±

    ¡°Unsurprisingly, the level above Expert is aptly named Master, which already says a lot about how thorough one¡¯s understanding of the skill is at that level. I won¡¯t give any example for this level since it¡¯s pretty hard to exin, but just know that any skill at Master level mastery can show the power of a skill at least one tier above it,¡± he told the two.

    ¡°A tier above?¡± Herellia could not help but focus on that part. ¡°What do you mean by that?¡±

    ¡°Check your skills again. Any of the two,¡± Aurus said in response. ¡°Now, tell me what skill grade they¡¯re at.¡±

    ¡°Let me see¡­ it says here they¡¯re Tier 0 Mortal,¡± Herellia said after opening up her system again. ¡°Is that the same as C-grade Mortal?¡±

    ¡°In concept, yes. In reality, far from it,¡± Aurus replied, trying to recall as much information from the original Aurus¡¯ memories on this part as possible. ¡°Instead of C-grade Mortal to X-grade Mortal, the skill grades for Animates go from Tier 0 Mortal to Tier 9 Mortal, basically doubling the number of skill grades you have to go through until you reach Transcendent grade for the skill.¡±

    ¡°Anyways, I think that¡¯s enough exnation for now,¡± he said soon after before lightly grinning. ¡°Don¡¯t you think it¡¯s time for us to start training?¡±

    Hearing that, smiles could be seen on the pair¡¯s faces. Though, once one looked closely, one would noticepetitive intent hidden beneath their light grins.

    ¡°Let¡¯s make it more interesting, shall we?¡± Herellia suggested all of a sudden. ¡°How about¡­ the one who kills the least creatures has to do a punishment?¡±

    Hearing that, Aurus and Horell unhesitatingly agreed as a me was lit up inside them. The me ofpetition.

    ¡°You¡¯re on!¡±

    ¡­

    With that, the three wholeheartedly focused on honing their strengths, with some of them getting into more trouble than others at times. Nevertheless, every night, the three would gather at the clearing and talk about what they had done that day, allowing the others to gain more experience and enhance their knowledge as a whole while they rested.

    In fact, the three decided to work on their strength as a team after focusing on their personal strengths for a few days, utilizing formations and strategies while fighting the creatures of the forest. Of course, they still focused on their personal strength for the most part. Though, it was no surprise that they considered fighting together far more interesting than fighting alone at that point.

    Unfortunately, all good things had toe to an end, which was what happened two weeks after they had arrived at the forest.

    As the sun shone its rays down from the peak of the sky, the three of them gathered at the clearing, looking at each other to see that each of them had considerably improved in strengthpared to when they had first arrived. For Herellia, she had increased her mastery for both of her skills to Adept level, though she was certain that it wouldn¡¯t take long until she reached Veteran level as long as she focused on them for a bit more. On top of that, she had increased her level to Level 5, which was about halfway to the maximum level for her current grade.

    Horell, on the other hand, had progressed far greater than Herellia, evolving to Grand-grade and even reaching the maximum level for it within these past two weeks. Not only that, but he had also evolved a great portion of his skills to higher grades, increasing his personal strength even further. Then again, as a Pseudo-Animate, he gained a lot more experience whenever he fought against an Animate creature.

    As for Aurus, it was no surprise that he had also reached the maximum level for Grand-grade. However, as he was already in Grand-grade before their training spree started, it took him a lot less time to achieve his feat, allowing him to focus all of his remaining time on maxing out his skills.

    And max them out he did.

    May the skill be passive or active, all of them were now at X-grade Mortal, with a select few among them even going past beyond that and reaching C-grade Transcendent. Nevertheless, with all of them at the maximum level for their grade, it wouldn¡¯t be far-fetched to say that Aurus now could thrash Aurus from two weeks ago without a problem.

    In any case, with all of them achieving a lot in these past two weeks, it was now time for them to head back to town and prepare for what they were about to do.  <!--

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 Chapter 437

    Chapter 437: Long Forgotten Beings

    With all of them growing stronger, it was no surprise that it took less time for the three to return to Verdant Breeze Town thanks to their strengthened spells and skills. In fact, Delmann was quite surprised to see their town leader return this early even though he was told that thetter was going to be out for a month.

    ¡°Sir Argentum!¡± Delmann, who was going through some of the town¡¯s development projects at that moment, quickly appeared in front of Aurus and bowed. ¡°Is there a reason for your early return?¡±

    ¡°Just settled those personal matters of mine earlier than expected,¡± said Aurus in response as he took over Delmann¡¯s job for a bit. After making sure that all of the town¡¯s ns stayed on track, he lightly nodded before looking back at Delmann. ¡°Any updates on the search for ore veins?¡±

    ¡°Er¡­ give me a second, sir.¡± Hearing that, Delmann quickly flipped through the documents he was holding, eventually stopping on a certain one as he read its contents. ¡°ording to what the others have told me these past couple of weeks, our men have found 10 more ore veins, most of them being iron. These ore veins are already being mined as we speak to increase our stockpile of ores for the cksmiths. As for the remaining ore veins, we haven¡¯t touched any of them as we don¡¯t have any cksmith skilled enough to make use of them.¡±

    ¡°Is that so?¡± Aurus raised his eyebrow. ¡°What kind of ores did you find aside from iron?¡±

    ¡°Just mana steel, sir,¡± Delmann replied.

    ¡°Mana steel, huh?¡± Aurus rubbed his chin in response, bing silent for a bit. ¡°Correct me if I¡¯m wrong, but isn¡¯t mana steel the cheapest metal avable that can absorb and conduct mana?¡±

    ¡°That would be correct, sir.¡± Delmann nodded in response. ¡°Even though it may be the cheapest metal, ording to the information we¡¯ve collected from nearby cities and towns, any equipment made out of mana steel fetches at least 10 times the price of what our iron equipment can fetch.¡±

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡± After pondering over it for a bit more, Aurus eventually came to a decision. ¡°For now, start mining a bit of the mana steel. I¡¯ll try and find a cksmith capable of working with mana steel within this week at the very least.¡±

    He then added, ¡°As for the iron veins, keep mining them. While I find a cksmith for the mana steel, I¡¯ll recruit a few more cksmiths that could work with iron.¡±

    ¡°Anything else?¡± Aurus asked after that, prompting Delmann to inform him of the issues that had popped up in town while he was gone. Fortunately, Aurus was able to offer a solution to all of them, though some of them could not help but make him let out a sigh from how troublesome they were.

    Eventually, the two had finished going through all of the issues, allowing Delmann to continue what he was previously doing as Aurus was leaving for the manor. However, before he did so, he told Delmann, ¡°Ah, right. I forgot to mention that I go by the name Aurus now. Make sure to inform the others about it as well.¡±

    ¡°Will do, Sir Argentu¡ª I mean, Sir Aurus.¡± Delmann nodded, albeit a bit confused as that came from out of nowhere. In response, Aurus chuckled as he left him to his own devices.

    With that, he made his way to the manor, where Herellia and Horell were waiting for him.

    ¡­

    Entering a certain room in the manor, Aurus was greeted by the sight of the two. With a light frown, Herellia could not help but ask him, ¡°What took you so long?¡±

    ¡°Had a conversation with Delmann regarding the town¡¯s development.¡± Aurus wryly smiled in response. ¡°Then again, you two chose to head here first.¡±

    ¡°Anyways, you two know very well what we¡¯re going to do next, right?¡± he asked soon after, with the two nodding at his question with solemn expressions.

    Nodding back in response, he then circted a bit of his energy towards a certain part of his body, utilizing the connection he had made with a few beings through Spirit Contracts.

    ¡°Come here as soon as possible, I have something important to tell you.¡± This was what he sent through those various connections, quickly obtaining responses from those on the other side a few secondster, with the slowest among them taking a minute. With them being on the way, he dispelled the connection he had just created as he looked at the two, more specifically Horell.

    ¡°Although you¡¯ve already given me your word, it doesn¡¯t hurt to ask one more time,¡± Aurus said. ¡°Are you sure you want to be an Animate? You can still back out if you want.¡±

    ¡°Since you¡¯re asking one more time, then I¡¯ll remind you one more time,¡± Horell replied, his gaze determined. ¡°There¡¯s no point if I¡¯m the only Pseudo-Animate among the three.¡±

    ¡°Plus¡­¡± As he said this, he could not help but let out a light chuckle. ¡°You did say back then that it would be boring if you were the only one aiming to reach the Divinity level.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m surprised you still remembered that.¡± Aurusughed back, making the atmosphere in the room lighter as the three bantered for a bit more until the beings Aurus had contacted came.

    ¡­

    Around ten minutester, a rift opened up in the room, revealing a woman in a red dress and a man in a blue tuxedo. As they had interacted multiple times already, Aurus was no stranger to them. ¡°As usual, you two would be first.¡±

    ¡°Well, your town is closest to our inheritances, after all,¡± replied Felix with a chuckle. Though, just as Eleanor was about to say something, another rift appeared, revealing a man in light green clothes and a woman in avish light gray suit.

    ¡°To think you¡¯d actually wear the suit,¡± Eleanor could not help but say as the two appeared, prompting Rosalia to lightly smile in response. ¡°It¡¯s been a while since I¡¯ve worn it, after all. So, when I was contemting over what to wear, I thought, why not?¡±

    ¡°I see my greatest fan has gotten stronger,¡± Helios said after the two were finished talking, prompting the others to finally take a look at Aurus. It was only then did they sense the stronger aura emanating around him, inwardly surprising them once more with his speed of improvement.

    ¡°That¡¯s one of the reasons why I called you here, actually,¡± Aurus said in response to Helios¡¯ words. ¡°Though, for the second reason, we¡¯re still waiting for another person.¡±

    ¡°Another one? Who would that even¡ª¡±

    Whoosh!

    Just as one of them was about to finish that question, a rift opened up right in one of the corners of the room, revealing a young man wearing dark clothing thatplemented his dark brown eyes and hair. As they witnessed the man appear, the other four could not help but be at a loss for words as never once did they expect him to arrive.

    ¡°Melzarin? Is that actually you?¡± Felix was the first one to ask, to which the dark-clothed man nodded in slight confusion. ¡°Yeah? Is there something wrong with me being here?¡±

    ¡°No, not really¡­¡± replied Felix as he looked at Aurus. Noticing this, Aurus lightly nodded as he called for everyone¡¯s attention. Seeing that everyone was looking at him, he then started to talk.

    ¡°Well, the main reason why I called you five here is because me and my friend Horell here have reached the peak of Grand-grade. We¡¯ve also gone through our first Power Baptisms, just so you know.¡±

    Hearing that, the room became silent as each of the five pondered over what Aurus was trying to say. Surprisingly, Helios was the first to break it as he recalled their meeting some time ago. With a calm expression, he asked, ¡°Is it that?¡±

    ¡°Yeah. It¡¯s that.¡± Aurus nodded.

    Listening in on their conversation, the other three quickly understood what Aurus was trying to say, with only Melzarin being clueless as to what was going on. Then again, he was the only one among the five who wasn¡¯t a part of that meeting.

    ¡°Well, let me be blunt, Melzarin.¡± Of course, Aurus wasn¡¯t going to leave him hanging. ¡°My friend and I have met the requirements to use an Existence Transition technique. We¡¯re nning to be Animates.¡±

    In response to that, a hint of shock appeared on Melzarin¡¯s face before it gradually disappeared, bing that of understanding. ¡°I see¡­ but what does that have to do with calling us over?¡±

    The other four nodded in agreement, also curious as to why they were called. In response, Aurus told them, ¡°Well, you see¡­ I was wondering if there was a way to enhance the effects of the Existence Transition technique we¡¯re using while keeping the same requirements.¡±

    With Aurus¡¯ answer, everything was now clear. Thus, the five looked at each other as they talked for a bit, their topic being what aspects of the Existence Transition technique they could enhance. Eventually, they coted all of the information they¡¯ve obtained and had a representative among the five exin it to Aurus and the other two¡­ which unsurprisingly fell onto Felix.

    ¡°So, to sum things up, we can actually enhance everything regarding the [Mortal Grasping Corporeality Manual] while keeping the same requirement,¡± Felix told him.

    Nodding in response, Aurus then asked, ¡°Is it possible for the Existence Transition technique to consume every skill I have except for one?¡±

    ¡°That¡­¡± When they heard that, the five got into another discussion once more, even getting slightly heated near the end. Eventually, Felix shook his head as he told him, ¡°Unfortunately, we don¡¯t have the skills to do that.¡±

    ¡°But we do know someone who does,¡± said Melzarin all of a sudden, instantly piquing Aurus¡¯ interest as the four had slight frowns on their faces. ¡°If it¡¯s a matter of modifying Existence Transition techniques to that extreme, then Lucius and Silvia are the ones you¡¯ll have to ask.¡±

    Just as Aurus was about to ask who those two were, he noticed that the other four had gone eerily silent. In fact, Melzarin had already noticed this while he had mentioned those two names, feeling the auras of the four pushing down on him. Eventually, he had enough of the silence and asked, ¡°Is there something wrong with what I said?¡±

    Yet the four still did not respond.  <!--

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 Chapter 439

    Chapter 439: Meeting Lucius

    A couple of days had passed since Melzarin, Aurus, and Horell had departed Verdant Breeze Town to head to the inheritance Lucius owned.

    Swoosh!

    At some point, the three had appeared in what seemed to be in the middle of a vast ins. Looking around, Melzarin lightly nodded before taking a look at the sky. ¡°It¡¯s already midday, but the sun seems dimmer than it should be. Yep, we¡¯re definitely at the right ce.¡±

    ¡°Where are we exactly?¡± Aurus could not help but ask before looking at Horell, who seemed to be on the verge of fainting.

    ¡°The ce where Lucius¡¯ inheritance is located, the only part of the continent where Dark Element would possibly be this concentrated to even darken the sky,¡± Melzarin said in response.

    ¡°Wee to the Everdark Mountains, you two.¡±

    ¡°I didn¡¯t even want toe here at all!¡± For some reason, Melzarin¡¯s words triggered Horell into forgetting how he was on the verge of fainting. Looking at Aurus with a hint of rage, he asked, ¡°Why the hell did you have to drag me into this?!¡±

    ¡°First of all, why not? Unlike Herellia, who¡¯s been to a couple of their inheritances before, you¡¯re the only one who hasn¡¯t been to an inheritance yet,¡± Aurus replied. Though, his words definitely sounded grating to Horell¡¯s ears.

    ¡°Second of all, because it¡¯s hrious.¡±

    ¡°Why I oughta¡­¡± Without hesitation, Horell infused both of his hands with great amounts of energy before strangling Aurus by the throat. As the two of them were at the peak of Grand-grade, they more or less had a simr level of strength. With that, it did not take long for Aurus to make a weird face as Melzarin watched two from the side in silence.

    ¡­

    ¡°Did you really have to strangle me that hard?¡± Aurus could not help but say, his expression pitiful. ¡°Were you actually trying to kill me?¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t mess with me, Aurus. You know very well you could escape from that with ease.¡± Of course, Horell was still mad at Aurus for dragging him here for no reason, but since he was already here, there was nothing else he could do. With a long sigh, he looked at Melzarin. ¡°Sir Melzarin¡­ right?¡±

    ¡°That would be me, yes.¡± Melzarin nodded.

    ¡°Where are we at the moment?¡± Horell asked, his previously cowardly nature nowhere to be seen. ¡°Also, are we close to the inheritance you guys were talking about a couple of days ago?¡±

    ¡°As I¡¯ve mentioned before, we¡¯re at the Everdark Mountains.¡± Melzarin did not mind exining where they were one more time. ¡°If you¡¯re wondering where exactly are we on the continent, we¡¯re at the southernmost tip. It¡¯s the only ce in the continent that¡¯s concentrated in Dark Element.¡±

    ¡°The inheritance, on the other hand, is still somewhat far away from us at the moment. However, we¡¯ll get there in about an hour or so as long as we head in this direction.¡± With that, he pointed at a certain direction, prompting the other two to look beyond, surprised to see a vast mountain range greet them.

    Naturally, Melzarin wouldn¡¯t allow to dawdle around for any longer, casting movement speed buffs on himself before carrying the two once more with his energy. ¡°Alright, hold on tight. Our next destination¡­¡±

    ¡°The Void Mind Inheritance!¡±

    ¡­

    Surprisingly, Melzarin was right in his estimates, with the three arriving in front of a temple about an hourter. As Melzarin released the energy that bound the two, Aurus and Horell looked at the sight in front of them with great curiosity.

    Unlike the previous inheritances Aurus had been to before, the building in front of him gave him the feeling that he had been transported to another reality only the original Aurus wished to live. Although it was situated in what seemed to be a deste location, the three-story temple in front of them was very clean, as if it was newly built. Not only that, but there was a slight holy aura to the ce, which brought peace to those who looked at it even though they were literally in the darkest ce in the continent.

    Just as the two were wondering as to how they were going to enter the inheritance, two people appeared from the door that led to the inside of the temple, being greeted by the sight of a man and a woman.

    The man looked like he was in his early forties, yet he was still brimming with energy. His face showed how he had weathered through the vicissitudes of time, though his body said otherwise, seemingly having the body of someone in their prime under the simple gray robe he wore. His hair was neat and tidy, while his gray eyes gave off the feeling of being able to peer through everything. If one didn¡¯t know any better, one would think of this person as a schr rather than the owner of an inheritance.

    As for the woman beside him, to say she was beautiful was already a great understatement. Wearing a simple gray robe just like the man, it formed a stark contrast to milky whiteplexion and her jet-ck hair and irises. Giving off the feeling of emptiness whenever one looked at her, the light smile she had on her face made most of that feeling disappear.

    ¡°Well, well, well¡­ look who decided to pay a visit!¡± The man had arge smile on his face as he came closer to the three. After that, he embraced Melzarin. ¡°Long time no see, Melzarin! How have you been?¡±

    ¡°All good, Lucius,¡± Melzarin lightly smiled in response, feeling great joy in meeting Lucius again after some time. ¡°How about you two? How have you two been faring as ofte?¡±

    ¡°Fine and dandy as always.¡± Lucius grinned before taking a look at the woman still at the temple¡¯s entrance. Turning his head back, he then focused his attention on Aurus and Horell. ¡°So, who are these two? Your sessors?¡±

    ¡°Not really, but one of them is simr to that.¡± Melzarin lightly chuckled. cing his hands on their shoulders, he introduced the two to Lucius. ¡°The one with the brown hair is Aurus, while the one with the light blue hair is Horell. They asked me to bring them here since they have something they need your help with.¡±

    ¡°Oh?¡± Lucius raised his eyebrow in curiosity. With that, he asked the two, ¡°Is that so? What do you need my help with, young ones?¡±

    Hearing that, Aurus decided to speak up. ¡°Er¡­ Melzarin told us that if we wanted to have our Existence Transition techniques modified to a far greater degree, we would have to seek your assistance. That is our reason foring here, Sir Lucius.¡±

    ¡°What kind of Existence Transition technique are we talking here?¡± Lucius asked in response, his expression now calm. ¡°Judging by the energy you two are emanating, both of you are already Grand-grade Pseudo-Animates. With that in mind, it won¡¯t make sense if you two are nning to transition back into Inanimates. Most of the power you two have rued so far would disappear in an instant.¡±

    ¡°In that case, the only possibility is that you two are nning to transition into Animates, right?¡± he concluded, prompting the two to nod in response.

    Sending a strand of energy containing the Existence Transition technique he obtained from the five sometime ago to Lucius, Aurus went ahead and exined. ¡°The Existence Transition technique we have is the [Mortal Grasping Corporeality Manual]. Although it¡¯s already a sufficient technique as it is, we want to have the technique wipe all of our skills and only let us leave with one skill of our choosing, possibly even enhancing our body¡¯s properties for a bit as we transition. Is that possible, Sir Lucius?¡±

    At the very instant Lucius read through the technique Aurus sent him, he could not help but turn silent as he took a quick nce at Melzarin. After that, he looked back at the woman before pondering over Aurus¡¯ question. Eventually, he let out a light sigh as he scratched his head soon after. ¡°I could try and modify it, but it¡¯s been a long time since thest time I¡¯ve actually modified an Existence Transition technique to the extent you two are requesting. If it was a simple modification, I would¡¯ve probably epted your request on the spot. But since you¡¯re asking me to modify it to that extent¡­ what are you willing to give me in exchange?¡±

    ¡°This¡­¡± Even though it made sense, Aurus felt like the question was very alien to him. Then again, as he thought about it, Lucius seemed to be separated from Eleanor and the gang, which meant that the person in front of him had no clue who he was.

    With that in mind, Aurus went silent for a bit before eventuallying up with an answer. ¡°Is there anything you might need at the moment, Sir Lucius?¡±

    ¡°Hm?¡± Not expecting that kind of answer, Lucius raised his eyebrows in slight surprise. Turning around to look back at the woman behind him, he pondered over Aurus¡¯ question once more. ¡°Hmm¡­ if you could procure five Mana Tenacity Cores and give them to me, not only will I modify your Existence Transition technique to the specifications you¡¯ve requested, I¡¯ll even owe you a favor. How about it? Does that sound good to you?¡±

    ¡°Er¡­ that sounds good and all, but I have a question,¡± Aurus said in response.

    ¡°And what would that question be, young one?¡±

    ¡°¡­ what are Mana Tenacity Cores?¡±  <!--

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 Chapter 441

    Chapter 441: Coincidence

    Within the Origin Pantheon.

    Whoosh!

    Appearing where those visiting the ce usually appeared, Aurus looked around for a bit before finding the person he wanted to talk to. With a smile, he came closer to the person standing near the stairway, gazing out into the horizon. ¡°Cardis!¡±

    ¡°Hmm?¡± Hearing his name being called, Cardis could not help but turn around to see who it was. Seeing that it was Aurus, he could not help but let out a chuckle as he embraced him. ¡°Aurus! d to see you again, my friend!¡±

    ¡°Though, I thought you told me you¡¯d look drastically different the next time you came back here?¡± he asked soon after.

    ¡°Well, that was supposed to be the case at first, but I¡¯m here for an urgent reason,¡± said Aurus in response as he slowly extricated himself from the embrace.

    In response to those words, the joyous attitude Cardis showed was quickly reced with a serious expression. ¡°An urgent reason, eh? Do you need to find Torvas again or something?¡±

    ¡°Of course, it would be great if I could get his help.¡± Aurus shook his head. ¡°However, I don¡¯t want to bother him too much.¡±

    ¡°Instead, I need your help,¡± he added, prompting Cardis to slightly scratch his head. ¡°Does your reason have anything to do with money? If yes, I can¡¯t help you there. I¡¯ve spent it on a couple key items for advancement.¡±

    ¡°No, not at all,¡± said Aurus, shaking his head once more. ¡°I was just going to ask you if you know where to get Mana Tenacity Cores.¡±

    ¡°Mana Tenacity Cores?¡± Hearing that, Cardis went silent for a bit as he rubbed his chin while pondering. After a while, he asked Aurus, ¡°Where are you located at in Maerr-viki?¡±

    ¡°Why do you ask?¡± asked Aurus in response.

    ¡°Well, depending on your answer, I¡¯d have to talk to a couple of my friends here,¡± replied Cardis. ¡°So, where are you located?¡±

    ¡°The closest kingdom to where I¡¯m located would be the Seraph Kingdom,¡± Aurus replied, understanding that his reasoning made sense. However, rather than give him good news at that instant, a slight frown appeared on Cardis¡¯ face instead.

    ¡°Well then. It seems I¡¯ll have to call a friend of mine that¡¯s based near the Seraph Kingdom.¡± Cardis wryly smiled in response. ¡°If you were situated near the Valiharsus Kingdom, I would¡¯ve probably rmended a couple ces to ask already.¡±

    ¡°Is that so?¡± Aurus could only sigh. Though, recalling that he was currently at the Everdark Mountains, he followed it up with another question. ¡°Ah, before you contact your friend, could you tell me where the Valiharsus Kingdom is located?¡±

    ¡°If my memory serves me correctly, the kingdom is situated near the south of the continent,¡± replied Cardis after a bit of recalling. ¡°Why do you ask?¡±

    Making sure that the Valiharsus Kingdom was indeed near the south with the system¡¯s map, Aurus inwardly let out a sigh of relief as he lightly smiled. ¡°Oh, that¡¯s because I¡¯m at the Everdark Mountains with a couple other people at the moment. Quite coincidental, don¡¯t you think?¡±

    ¡°It definitely is.¡± Cardis could onlyugh at that. ¡°I guess the world wants you to get those Mana Tenacity Cores as fast as possible.¡±

    Hearing that, Aurus could not help butugh as well. ¡°I guess so.¡±

    ¡°So, where in the Valiharsus Kingdom could I get Mana Tenacity Cores?¡±

    ¡°The Valiharsus Arc Treasure Pavilion,¡± said Cardis in response, his demeanor more rxed than before. ¡°As long as you fork out a lot of money, they¡¯ll bend over backwards to get whatever you want as soon as possible. Of course, extremely rare items such as dragon blood and the like are only sold in their yearly auction. However, Mana Tenacity Cores don¡¯t really warrant such levels of renown¡­ unless if you¡¯re nning to buy the ones at the higher grades.¡±

    ¡°Speaking of which, what grade of Mana Tenacity Cores do you need anyway?¡± he asked, to which Aurus replied, ¡°Grade 2 at the minimum. Of course, the higher it is, the better.¡±

    As he said this, Aurus thought about what Lucius told him regarding the requirements of the cores back then. Although the man lowered the requirements down to Grade 2 Mana Tenacity Cores, there was a small part of him that was curious as to what would happen if they gave Lucius Grade 4 Mana Tenacity Cores. Would he modify the Existence Transition technique to unbelievable lengths? Would he gain a Spirit Contract?

    Of course, they would only know the answer to that if they did give him those kind of Mana Tenacity Cores.

    ¡°Well, you¡¯re in luck.¡± As Aurus heard thise out of Cardis¡¯ mouth, it made him think that things were finally seeming like they were looking up for the better. ¡°The pavilion always has Mana Tenacity Cores at Grade 5 and below in stock. If you needed Mana Tenacity Cores at Grade 6 and above, I would¡¯ve told you that you were out of luck since you¡¯d have to wait about half a year before the auction starts.¡±

    ¡°I see, I see.¡± Nodding, Aurus then asked him, ¡°Do you know how much Grade 5 Mana Tenacity Cores cost perchance?¡±

    ¡°Even though they¡¯re only Grade 5 Mana Tenacity Cores, each of them costs like one Rank 9 Mana Stone,¡± said Cardis in response as Aurus could not help but widen his eyes after hearing that.

    After all, Torvas had given him a Rank 9 Mana Stone and that one stone was already equivalent to 1.5 billion gold coins. ¡®And you¡¯re telling me that one Grade 5 Mana Tenacity Core costs as much as that?! What the hell happened in the past for the prices of those cores to skyrocket?¡¯

    Although he wanted to know the answer to that question, he had a feeling that Cardis did not know the answer to it. ¡®Well, I guess it doesn¡¯t hurt to ask¡­¡¯

    ¡°Oh, the reason behind that?¡± Hearing Aurus¡¯ question regarding the high price of the Mana Tenacity Cores, Cardis surprisingly had an answer to that. ¡°Well, that¡¯s because around 500 years ago, a certain person was born in the continent with possibly the greatest aptitude and talent for magic. Because of that, the continent experienced a golden era of magic due to that person¡¯s actions since he contributed great developments in every field.¡±

    ¡°With that, almost everything that could help out in the advancement of magic was swooped up by everyone like vultures, leading to a massive shortage in every magic item. And as you know, high demand and low supply means a skyrocket in price,¡± he concluded. ¡°Even though that era of magic has already ended, people still feel the effects of it at the higher tiers.¡±

    ¡°Got it.¡± Now that his curiosity was satisfied, Aurus returned their topic back to the prices of Mana Tenacity Cores. ¡°Well, since Grade 5 Mana Tenacity Cores cost that much, how much do Grade 4 Mana Tenacity Cores cost?¡±

    ¡°The most expensive price you could get at that grade would be a couple Rank 8 Mana Stones,¡± said Cardis in response. ¡°Though, as long as you wait for a while, you could probably snag one for just one Rank 8 Mana Stone.¡±

    ¡°And how much is a Rank 8 Mana Stone in terms of gold coins?¡± Aurus asked soon after.

    ¡°Around a hundred million gold coins, give or take,¡± replied Cardis. ¡°With that, the most expensive price you could get for a Grade 4 Mana Tenacity Core would be around 200 to 300 million gold coins.¡±

    ¡°Got it.¡± Aurus nodded after that, thinking about how much of the money he currently had would be left after he had bought 5 of those cores. ¡®Well, let¡¯s just hope I could snag all of them for a hundred million gold coins each.¡¯

    After talking about a few more things for a while longer, Aurus eventually prepared to say goodbye to Cardis.

    ¡°You¡¯re not even gonna go and say hello to Torvas?¡± thetter could not help but ask.

    ¡°There¡¯s no need to,¡± Aurus replied. ¡°I just needed information on where to get Mana Tenacity Cores and you answered that.¡±

    ¡°Plus, I¡¯m pretty sure he knows I visited for a bit.¡± With that, Aurus bade farewell and left the Origin Pantheon soon after, leaving Cardis alone on his own again.

    As he looked at the spot Aurus disappeared from, Cardis could not help but scratch his head in confusion before letting out a light sigh.

    ¡°What does he mean by Torvas knowing he visited for a bit? Why so mysterious?¡±

    ¡°Ah, whatever. It doesn¡¯t have anything to do with me anyway.¡±

    ¡­

    Returning back to the Everdark Mountains, Aurus was instantly greeted by the sight of Horell and Melzarin lying down on the ground for a bit as they idly chatted away. Seeing this, he could not help but try and hide his presence as he wanted to see them interact like that for a bit longer.

    Unfortunately for him, the two had noticed his return as both of them stood up to look at him.

    ¡°Wee back,¡± Horell said the very moment he stood up. ¡°So what did you find out in the Origin Pantheon?¡±

    ¡°Good news.¡± Aurus smiled after hearing that.

    ¡°You know where to get Mana Tenacity Cores?¡± Melzarin asked, to which Aurus nodded.

    Seeing him nod, Melzarin and Horell looked at him with smiles on their faces as it meant that they wouldn¡¯t have to wait any longer.

    ¡°Alright then. I¡¯m guessing the location¡¯s a bit far away from here, so I¡¯ll give all of us a lift,¡± said Melzarin as he manipted his energy to make a levitating tform for the three of them. As all three of them hopped on the tform, he then looked at Aurus and asked, ¡°Where to?¡±

    ¡°The Valiharsus Kingdom,¡± Aurus replied with a smile.

    ¡°Got it.¡± Melzarin nodded, infusing a great portion of his energy on the tform as they then shot forward from the original position soon after.

    Whoosh!

    ¡°Off to the Valiharsus Arc Treasure Pavilion we go!¡±  <!--

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 Chapter 442

    Chapter 442: Shopping

    With how close the Valiharsus Kingdom was to the Everdark Mountains, the three only took a day to appear a couple of kilometers away from the kingdom¡¯s walls, which Aurus and Horell looked at with a hint of awe on their faces.

    ¡°We¡¯ve already seen the Seraph Kingdom from both inside and out, but this¡­ this is on a whole other level,¡± Aurus could not help but murmur as he took in the sheer size of the kingdom before him. As for Horell, he unsurprisingly went ck-jawed, appreciating howrge the kingdom was in his own way.

    Hearing Aurus¡¯ words, Melzarin could not help but let out a light chortle. ¡°You¡¯re already astounded by that? Well, I guess it makes sense since you two haven¡¯t traveled throughout the continent just yet.¡±

    ¡°What do you mean by that?¡± asked Aurus soon after.

    ¡°Let¡¯s just say the Valiharsus Kingdom is only top 3 if you were to ask me as to which ce in the continent has the most grandeur. The Plyder Kingdom and the Megistos Empire take the spot of top two and top one for that, in my opinion,¡± said Melzarin with confidence.

    In response to his words, Aurus and Horell looked at each other as they inwardly nodded. From what it seemed, their thoughts had be as one, thinking that once they had the time, they would have to travel to the two ces Melzarin mentioned to see if his words truly held any weight.

    Then again, their main objective in this kingdom was not to admire the sights that the kingdom offered. Instead, it was to buy Mana Tenacity Cores in order to modify their Existence Transition technique and quickly transition as Animates. With that in mind, the three applied a couple movement speed buffs on them as they made their way to the Valiharsus Kingdom¡¯s gates.

    ¡­

    Once they were inside the kingdom, both Aurus and Horell could not help but gawk around as the overall architecture of the kingdom was vastly different from the architecture found in Seraph Kingdom. If one were topare the two, the feeling of the architecture in the Seraph Kingdom seemed like it was just newly made, as if there was no permanence to the buildings built in it. On the other hand, the architecture in the Valiharsus Kingdom exuded history, as if the kingdom had withstood the test of time.

    ¡°Just to remind you, we¡¯re here to buy Mana Tenacity Cores, not go on a sightseeing trip,¡± Melzarin said once he noticed the two slightly deviate from the main road. In response, Aurus and Horell turned their heads to look back at Melzarin before sticking their tongues out.

    Seeing that, Melzarin could not help but inwardly sigh as he wondered how long the three of them would wander around the kingdom before finding the ce where they needed to go, the Valiharsus Arc Treasure Pavilion.

    Thankfully, the answer to that question did not take long to arrive as, a few minutes after they had entered the kingdom, they had arrived in front of one of thergest buildings in the kingdom.

    Spanning five stories tall, the building in front of them stuck out like a sore thumb when the highest among the other buildings in the area only spanned three stories at most. With its walls being made out of carved stone, it gave off the feeling that the building had been in the kingdom at the very start.

    ¡°The Valiharsus Arc Treasure Pavilion¡­ who knows we¡¯d actually stumble across it while the two were sightseeing,¡± Melzarin could not help but mutter, looking at therge wooden sign above the main entrance. Written on it were the words ¡®Arc Treasure Pavilion¡¯ in a striking gold. Combined with how the building looked, it was easy not to miss.

    ¡°Just so you know, this was part of our calctions,¡± said Aurus soon after, with Horell nodding in agreement. Hearing that, Melzarin could only inwardly let out a sigh once more as the three of them went ahead and entered the pavilion.

    ¡­

    Once they had entered the pavilion, the three of them were greeted by the sight of multiple shelves and disys, arranged in a way that made it seem like there was purpose to their arrangement. On them were items that all had seemed to have a story behind it, prompting anyone who came into the pavilion to realize that this ce was the real deal.

    ¡°How may I help you, esteemed sirs?¡± Just as they were about to stand still and stare at everything in front of them with awe, an attendant from the pavilion went up to them and asked. Hearing that, Aurus snapped back to reality as he cordially smiled. ¡°Ah, we were told this was the ce to buy Mana Tenacity Cores. Does this ce still have some in stock?¡±

    ¡°Indeed.¡± The attendant smiled in response, only to have a slightly sad expression soon after as she continued, ¡°However, all of the lower-grade Mana Tenacity Cores are sold out, so if the esteemed sirs were aiming to buy such cores, then you¡¯d be out of luck.¡±

    ¡°Well, what grade of cores are still avable for purchase?¡± Aurus asked in response.

    ¡°We still have Grade 4 and Grade 5 Mana Tenacity Cores for sale,¡± the attendant replied. ¡°Are the esteemed sirs nning to buy cores from these two grades?¡±

    Hearing the attendant¡¯s words, Aurus inwardly let out a sigh of relief. With a nod, he told the attendant, ¡°Yes. We were nning to buy Grade 4 Mana Tenacity Cores, actually.¡±

    ¡°Is that so?¡± In response, the attendant beamed a smile at the three of them as her tone became slightly more polite. ¡°Well, if the esteemed sirs may follow me, let us head to the section for the Mana Tenacity Cores.¡±

    With that, the three went ahead and followed the attendant in front of them. While doing so, Melzarin could not help but send a strand of energy towards Aurus, establishing a connection where they could talk in secret. ¡°I thought you were only nning to buy Grade 2 Mana Tenacity Cores?¡±

    ¡°Yeah, I thought so as well.¡± Aurus wryly smiled in response. ¡°However, aren¡¯t you curious as to what Lucius would do to the technique if we gave him Grade 4 Mana Tenacity Cores? After all, it seemed like the Grade 2 ones he mentioned was just an afterthought.¡±

    ¡°Eh¡­ not really¡­¡± said Melzarin as he scratched his head. After a few more questions and answers, the connection between the two was cut off as the three appeared in another section of the pavilion a couple minutester.

    ¡­

    ¡°Here you go, sir. Five Grade 4 Mana Tenacity Cores,¡± said the attendant as she handed a pouch to Aurus. Receiving it, he went ahead and opened it, revealing five pearls that were sky blue in color. Looking at it for a before, he noticed that the pearls were emanating a faint blue light, thinking that it probably had something to do with the material the pearl was made of, or possibly the pearl itself.

    ¡°How much would it cost?¡± Aurus asked not long after, giving the pouch to Melzarin for safekeeping. In response, the attendant asked back, ¡°Would you be paying in gold coins or in mana stones?¡±

    ¡°Gold coins, please,¡± he quickly replied.

    ¡°Since you¡¯re going to pay in gold coins, the pavilion has decided to offer you a customary discount, courtesy of being one of the pavilion¡¯s first-time customers.¡± The attendant smiled in response, thinking about themission she would get from the deal. ¡°With the discount applied, the price is totaled to a billion gold coins.¡±

    Hearing the price they would have to pay, Aurus could not help but take in a deep breath. After a while, he let out a sigh as he rummaged something from his pocket before giving it to the attendant. ¡°Deduct it from the card.¡±

    ¡°As you wish, sir. This may take a few minutes, so please wait for a while.¡± After saying those words, the attendant left to process the transaction, leaving the three off on their own.

    ¡°What¡¯s the card you gave the attendant?¡± Horell asked with a slightly curious expression.

    ¡°It¡¯s a card that contains all of the money we got from exchanging that Rank 9 Mana Stone,¡± Aurus replied. ¡°Speaking of which, the card is produced by an organization well-respected all throughout the continent so it¡¯ll be epted wherever we may be.¡±

    Nodding in response to Aurus¡¯ words, Melzarin asked after that, ¡°So, how many gold coins do you have left?¡±

    In response, Aurus wryly smiled as he said, ¡°About a couple hundred million gold coins, give or take. Considering how the Existence Transition technique also needs items, we¡¯d only have around a hundred million coins left over after that.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s still plenty of money to grow the town and make sure it has a stable flow of ie,¡± Melzarin replied, prompting the two of them to look at him in silence. ¡°What? I¡¯ve managed a couple of towns in the past. This isn¡¯t anything new to me.¡±

    Hearing that, Aurus asked Melzarin for a bit of advice regarding the proper management of towns. However, their conversation was cut off short as the attendant had arrived in front of them a few minutester.

    ¡°Here you go, sir,¡± said the attendant as she gave the card back to Aurus. ¡°Is there anything else I can help you with?¡±

    ¡°That would be all, thanks,¡± replied Aurus with a smile.

    ¡°Alright then. Thank you for buying from the Valiharsus Arc Treasure Pavilion, esteemed sirs. May youe back here next time!¡± the attendant said in response as the three left the pavilion not long after.

    ¡°So, where next?¡± Once they had left the pavilion, Horell went ahead and asked the two this question.

    ¡°Well, it¡¯s still midday¡­¡± Aurus said, taking a quick nce at the sun. ¡°Should we explore the kingdom for a bit more before making our way back to the Everdark Mountains?¡±

    Unsurprisingly, Horell quickly agreed to the proposition. As for Melzarin¡­

    ¡°Haah¡­ fine. We¡¯ll head backter.¡±

    ¡°As expected of Melzarin!¡±

    ¡°Yeah! Melzarin, you¡¯re the best!¡±  <!--

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 Chapter 443

    Chapter 443: It¡¯s a Secret

    A dayter, the three had appeared at the Everdark Mountains once more, making their way to the inheritance Lucius owned.

    ¡°We spent too much time in the kingdom,¡± Melzarin could not help but say with a sigh. At the moment, he was utilizing his mastery over Earth to its maximum as they sped through the ins. ¡°I don¡¯t really like moving through ces at night.¡±

    ¡°Sorry,¡± Horell apologized in response. ¡°I guess we got a bit too out of hand and lost track of time here.¡±

    ¡°You don¡¯t really have to say sorry to him, Horell.¡± Aurus looked at Melzarin and gave him a knowing grin. ¡°I¡¯m pretty sure he also enjoyed that time we spent in the kingdom.¡±

    Hearing that, Melzarin looked away from the two as he let out a light cough. ¡°Well, I tried telling you two quite a few times that we had to head out as soon as possible. However, you two wouldn¡¯t even listen. So, eventually, I just¡­ stopped¡­¡±

    At that point, Horell even gave Melzarin a knowing grin, prompting thetter to scratch his head as he asked them if they could change the topic while they were on their way to the inheritance.

    They didn¡¯t.

    ¡­

    By the time the three had returned to the Void Mind Inheritance, the sun was only a couple of hours from setting.

    With great dexterity, Melzarin dispelled the tform of earth beneath them as they stood on solid ground, wondering how long it would take Lucius to appear from the temple. However, once they looked at the temple¡¯s entrance, they were surprised to see Lucius and the woman already standing there, seemingly waiting for them to arrive all this time.

    Naturally, the question the three had in their minds at that moment eventually popped up.

    ¡°Were you waiting for us all this time, Lucius?¡± Melzarin asked.

    ¡°I wish I had that much free time, but no.¡± Lucius shook his head in response, which elicited solemn expressions from the three as they looked at each other. ¡°Instead, I started waiting for you three by the time the sun was at its peak earlier.¡±

    Hearing that, the three¡¯s eyes widened in slight incredulity, all of them wondering how Lucius was so confident that the three of them would return to the inheritance that quickly.

    ¡°How did you know we were going to return this quickly?¡± Aurus asked, speaking out what the three wanted know at that moment.

    ¡°Mostly intuition,¡± Lucius replied. ¡°But when I was talking to you, young one, you seemed like you were adamant to find the Mana Tenacity Cores in order to get that Existence Transition technique of yours modified as quickly as possible.¡±

    ¡°And well¡­ you could say it¡¯s that feeling I betted on. d to see my guess was correct.¡± Lucius shed a smile after that.

    ¡°Well, what if we don¡¯t have the Mana Tenacity Cores you wanted? What if we wanted to ask you to change the item to something else instead?¡± Aurus asked after that, only for Lucius to let out a chuckle in response. ¡°And why should I? You wouldn¡¯t havee here if you hadn¡¯t brought the Mana Tenacity Cores, no?¡±

    ¡°Crap¡­¡± Aurus quickly turned and scratched his head, eventually letting out an awkward chuckle sometimeter. ¡°Yeah¡­ I guess we wouldn¡¯t havee here if we were empty-handed.¡±

    After saying that, he then looked at Melzarin, who quickly rummaged something out of his pocket. Just as he was bringing out a small pouch, Lucius¡¯ eyes widened as he hastily appeared in front of him.

    ¡°What¡¯s gotten into you all of a sudden?¡± Melzarin could not help but ask, taking a step backward in slight shock. In front of him was a man with a crazed expression on his face, giving off the feeling that he was going to devour anything in front of him whole.

    Realizing what he had just done, Lucius lightly coughed before returning his expression back to normal. Taking in a deep breath, an apologetic smile appeared on his face as he said, ¡°Sorry. I was just a bit too excited.¡±

    ¡°But still¡­ to think you¡¯d be able to procure five Grade 4 Mana Tenacity Cores in such short time. I¡¯m incredibly impressed,¡± added Lucius as he looked at Aurus and Horell.

    After that, he went silent as he rubbed his chin for a bit, pondering over something. A couple minutester, he looked up at the sky before letting out a light sigh. Then, looking at Aurus and Horell, he nodded at them. ¡°Alright. Let me hold up my part of deal and modify your Existence Transition technique for you.¡±

    Hearing that, Horell and Aurus looked at each other before looking back at Lucius with smiles on their faces.

    ¡°Thank you. So, do we have to leave you be for now and juste back hereter?¡± Aurus asked, to which Lucius shook his head. ¡°There¡¯s no need. The modification you¡¯re requesting from me is actually simpler than you¡¯d think, so it¡¯ll only take me a while.¡±

    ¡°Plus, I¡¯m not like the others who want to remove all of the distractions surrounding them. In fact, I consider distractions as untapped possibilities for new ideas,¡± added Lucius with a chuckle.

    With that, he stepped back for a bit before sitting on the ground cross-legged. Then, with a hint of his energy, he tugged onto something, prompting a small sphere of energy toe out of his mind. After that, he made the ball of energy hovering a small distance away from him before infusing more of his energy, creating a cage made out of Dark element around it.

    As he watched the process unfold, Aurus could not help but ask, ¡°What¡¯s the ball of energy? Plus, what¡¯s the cage for?¡±

    ¡°The ball of energy you see is the Existence Transition technique in its condensed form,¡± exined Lucius. ¡°In other words, it¡¯s the Existence Transition technique you gave me a few days ago, just in a somewhat tangible form.¡±

    ¡°As for the cage, it¡¯s the main method as to how I¡¯ll interact with the various elements of the Existence Transition technique, thereby allowing to modify and manipte its contents. I just have to infuse it with a bit of my energy and small tendrils will extend from it, allowing me to fine-tune my modifications.¡±

    ¡°Just so I don¡¯t forget, the modification you want for the technique is to have it remove all of your skills, except for one of your choosing, right?¡± he asked, to which Aurus nodded in response.

    ¡°Anything else?¡±

    ¡°The requirement for the technique must stay the same, which is to be at the peak of Grand-grade and undergo one baptism,¡± Aurus replied. ¡°Also, if it¡¯s possible, could you enhance the technique a bit further?¡±

    ¡°The first one¡¯s already a given.¡± Lucius gave Aurus a smile. ¡°As for the second one, I¡¯ll try and see what I can do.¡±

    After saying those words, he returned his attention to the ball of energy in front of him. Taking in a deep breath, he then extended a few tendrils of his energy to the cage surrounding the ball, allowing a couple of tendrils to extend from the cage out to the ball of energy.

    Eventually, once one of the cage¡¯s tendrils touched the surface of the ball, Lucius¡¯ demeanor instantly changed, giving off the feeling that he was the epitome of wisdom and knowledge.

    And thus, the modification began.

    ¡­

    Although the process was mesmerizing at the beginning, by the time ten minutes had passed, both Aurus and Horell had grown bored of watching. As for Melzarin, he was doing something else in the meantime, deciding to create an art piece of sorts utilizing his mastery over the Earth element.

    Naturally, the three of them had expected that the entire process would need silence, so they feared speaking up, even going so far as to establish connections with their energies to do so instead. So, once Lucius opened his mouth around thirty minutes into the process, the three were slightly shocked.

    ¡°Did you know there¡¯s actually something special about this Existence Transition technique you gave me?¡± asked Lucius all of a sudden, looking at Aurus.

    Seeing Aurus shake his head after a bit of silence, he then exined, ¡°This is actually the first Existence Transition technique I made. I gave them to Eleanor and the others just in case they would have a need for it.¡±

    ¡°Well, let¡¯s just say I wasn¡¯t expecting that need to be this,¡± said Lucius with a chuckle. After that, he let out a sigh as a wry smile was stered on his face. ¡°Aside from that, did you know this technique was my first attempt at trying to revive Silvia?¡±

    Hearing that, all three of them stared at Lucius in silence once more, not expecting him to say it outright. Noticing their reactions, Lucius could only wryly chuckle. ¡°I may want to revive Silvia back to life, but it¡¯s not like I haven¡¯t realized that I¡¯m a madman for thinking it¡¯s possible.¡±

    ¡°In any case, I won¡¯t give up until I breathe myst. After all¡­¡± As he said this, Lucius looked back at the woman standing near the temple¡¯s entrance before lightly smiling.

    ¡°She¡¯s the only reason I¡¯m still in this world.¡±

    ¡­

    Eventually, the cage had hundreds to thousands of tendrils extending out of it, all interacting with the ball of energy at the center. At this moment, Lucius focused all of his attention on the ball of energy, infusing a great amount of his energy as all of the tendrils touching the ball moved forward, causing a great amount of change to the ball.

    Whoosh!

    In an instant, a small shockwave spread out from the ball as all of the tendrils disintegrated, leaving only the ball of energy behind as it hovered in the air.

    If the ball of energy took on a milky white hue before, the ball of energy that the four were currently looking at had a tinge of gold to it, giving off the feeling that it felt too valuable to touch.

    After admiring it for a while, Lucius enveloped the ball with a bit of his energy before using the same energy to throw it at Aurus.

    Seeing that, Aurus formed a hand with his energy to catch the ball before allowing it to meld with him. Soon, an influx of information entered his mind, which he quickly processed and organized as a new Existence Transition technique wasmitted to his memory.

    After making sure that the technique had stuck to his mind, Aurus then looked at Lucius and asked, ¡°I was just wondering¡­ would you like to give this technique a new name, Sir Lucius? After all, it¡¯s so vastly different from the original.¡±

    ¡°I was just about to tell you that I came up with one, actually,¡± Lucius said in response. ¡°With how you start from next to nothing once you ascend to a higher existence level, I could not help but think, calling it the [Phoenix Rebirth Technique] is a great fit.¡±

    ¡°[Phoenix Rebirth Technique]¡­¡± Aurus could not help but get attached to the name. ¡°It does seem quite fitting.¡±

    ¡°Anyways, I guess it¡¯s time for us to leave. Thank you for modifying the technique for us,¡± he said soon after. However, before the three could get any farther, Lucius called out them. ¡°Oh yeah. Just so you know, I added a little bit extra to that technique.¡±

    ¡°Hmm? And what would that be, Sir Lucius?¡±

    ¡°Well, you¡¯ll have to use the technique to know.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s no fun if it¡¯s not a secret.¡±  <!--

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 Chapter 444

    Chapter 444: Preparations

    With Lucius not wanting to spoil the extra thing he added to the upgraded [Mortal Grasping Corporeality Manual], the three could only leave the inheritance with great curiosity as to what Lucius added.

    As he watched the silhouettes of the three gradually disappear from his field of vision, Lucius¡¯ expression could not help but turn into a light smile as he looked at the small pouch the three gave to him. Then, looking at the woman beside him, he tightly clenched his fist around the pouch as he and the woman returned to the temple.

    As to what happened next, only time would tell.

    ¡­

    Making their way back to Verdant Breeze Town, as the three were cruising down the terrain on Melzarin¡¯s tform made out of earth, Horell could not help but look at Aurus beside him. ¡°To be honest, I thought you left the gold coins we got from that Rank 9 Mana Stone back at town when we headed to the pavilion.¡±

    ¡°Hmm?¡± Hearing Horell¡¯s words, Aurus brought out the card. ¡°This? Well, I could¡¯ve done that, but I thought it was better in the long run if it was kept in a safer ce. After all, Verdant Breeze Town is a town. There¡¯s only so much we can do to reinforce a certain ce until it bes incredibly stupid to continue any further.¡±

    ¡°Aside from that, I didn¡¯t want any of the citizens to find out where we were getting the funds for the town¡¯s development,¡± he added as he kept the card. ¡°Given my mysterious origins in their eyes, they would instantly think that there was some organization or some powerful person backing me up as I helped the town out. Saves a lot of headache.¡±

    Melzarin could not help but nod in response to Aurus¡¯ words. ¡°You just reminded me of a time when I was just starting to develop my first town. I made the stupid decision to keep gold and stuff like that in a ce everyone could see, prompting everyone to just steal it outright.¡±

    Hearing that, Horell and Aurus let out a light hiss as they imagined the losses he had incurred during that incident. ¡°What did you do after that, though?¡±

    ¡°Since I was hotheaded during that time, I surprisingly made the decision to retrieve all of the assets I could still retrieve and have the citizens of that town keep what I couldn¡¯t,¡± Melzarin replied. ¡°If it was any other time, I would¡¯ve probably gone on a rampage and bury everyone alive under a coupleyers of earth. Even as I reminisce back at that, I¡¯m still surprised I made that decision.¡±

    Ignoring the slight fear that was apparent on both Horell and Aurus¡¯ faces, he continued, ¡°Anyways, that town I left behind experienced an era of prosperity, though it was short-lived as nearby cities caught wind of the resources they had. Right now, that town doesn¡¯t exist anymore.¡±

    ¡°As for the towns I helped develop after that, all of them naturally fared better once I learned my lesson.¡± He lightly smiled as he recalled those memories. Turning to look at the two, he then told them in a prideful tone, ¡°One of the towns I developed even went ahead and became a province under the Seraph Kingdom, if you didn¡¯t know.¡±

    Naturally, the two were left astounded as they asked Melzarin more and more about his experiences regarding town management, with Aurus keeping mental notes along the way.

    ¡­

    Three dayster, the three had returned to Verdant Breeze Town, with Herellia surprisingly at the town¡¯s entrance to greet the three.

    ¡°Herellia? How long have you been waiting for us?¡± Aurus could not help but ask, noticing that her legs were slightly quivering. From what he could deduce, it had been quite a while since she started waiting.

    ¡°Not too long ago, actually,¡± Herellia said in response, making sure that the three did not know how long she had been truly waiting for them. ¡°Anyways, did you three sessfully get what you needed?¡±

    In response to that question, both Horell and Aurus lightly nodded, causing a wide grin to appear on Herellia¡¯s face. ¡°Finally, all three of us will finally be Animates!¡±

    ¡°Well, I¡¯m already an Animate. You two are the ones finally going to be Animates,¡± she corrected herself soon after.

    ¡°So, when are you two going to use the technique?¡± she asked after that, prompting Aurus to say, ¡°In a bit. I just have something to do first.¡±

    ¡°Melzarin, Horell, Herellia, you three can head to the manor first,¡± he said after that, to which the three could only nod in response as they had an idea as to what he was going to do.

    Walking around town to see what had changed during the week or so he was gone, Aurus circted a bit of his energy around his body, establishing a connection with four of the Spirit Contracts located within a certain part of his body.

    Connecting all of the Spirit Contracts together to form a conference call, he then asked through the connection, ¡°What¡¯s the update on the Mana Tenacity Cores?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ve obtained a couple updates from my informants in the three kingdoms.¡± Helios was the first one to answer. ¡°They told me that the kingdoms did have Mana Tenacity Cores avable for sale, however, they¡¯re still trying to find out where exactly.¡±

    ¡°Same thing on my end,¡± Rosalia said after Helios was done talking. ¡°Already asked a couple people I know from the mage guilds in the empire. However, all they told me was that they were still finding the ce to buy it from.¡±

    ¡°How about you, Eleanor and Felix?¡± Aurus could not help but ask after that. ¡°How are you two faring?¡±

    ¡°We¡¯re still in the process of building the teleportation gate that¡¯ll bring us to Mercuria Continent,¡± Felix said in response to the question. ¡°It¡¯s basically the reason why it¡¯ll take us a month or so to get there.¡±

    ¡°I see.¡± Aurus inwardly nodded after hearing those words. As he thought about what he was going to say next, he could not help but scratch his head as he knew that the four would definitely have their ownments to what he had to say. However, in the end, he decided that it was best for them to know, thinking that there was something else they could do.

    Taking in a deep breath, he then told them, ¡°Well, you guys could stop searching for them, actually. We¡­ already got the Mana Tenacity Cores.¡±

    ¡°Hmm?¡± Surprisingly, Aurus heard this sound from the four in unison. Allowing a bit of silence to pass, he exined, ¡°I asked a person I know from the Origin Pantheon if he knew where I could buy some Mana Tenacity Cores. With that, I bought the Mana Tenacity Cores, gave it to Lucius, and got the Existence Transition technique modified.¡±

    Once he was done talking, a deafening silence spread throughout the call, prompting Aurus to let out a light cough to break the tension.

    ¡°So¡­ if we¡¯re getting this correctly, our efforts have all been for naught?¡± Helios could not help but ask, his toneced with a hint of anger.

    ¡°It¡¯s not, it¡¯s not!¡± Aurus hastily replied. ¡°In fact, what I want you to do instead actually has something to do with what you¡¯re doing right now!¡±

    ¡°It better be,¡± said Eleanor out of nowhere. ¡°If not, be prepared for the consequences.¡±

    Knowing that it would be difficult for him to appease their rage, Aurus decided to just get to the matter at hand, ignoring their underlying anger. ¡°With the Existence Transition technique modified, we actually need a few more materials to start the process.¡±

    ¡°And that¡¯s where you foure in.¡±

    ¡°Could you get me 2 liters of Sacred Wisdom Sap, a couple sprigs of Lesser Spatiotemporal Thyme, some¡­¡±

    ¡°¡­¡±

    ¡­

    By the time Aurus had gotten to the manor, he had an exhausted expression on his face, causing the three to look at him with slight worry.

    ¡°Is something wrong, Aurus?¡± Herellia could not help but ask.

    In response, he could only give a wry smile. ¡°All good. I just had to appease the anger of the four. They¡¯re probably on their way as we speak.¡±

    ¡°Well¡­ that¡¯s very understandable,¡± said Melzarin as he thought about it. ¡°You did lead them on a wild goose chase of sorts with the Mana Tenacity Cores, after all.¡±

    ¡°Anyways, what did you do to appease their anger?¡± he asked soon after.

    ¡°Got them to buy the other materials we need for our transition,¡± Aurus replied, which elicited some weird looks from the three. Realizing what he had just said, he quickly added, ¡°Of course, I¡¯m gonna pay them for their efforts. I¡¯m not that heartless, you know?¡±

    ¡°You better pay us at the very least for making us work hard for a week,¡± said a female voice not long after. Soon, a rift opened up in the room the four were in, revealing Eleanor and Felix, the former having a slight frown on her face. As for Felix, he had an apologetic smile as he looked at Aurus.

    ¡°Please don¡¯t get too mad¡­¡± was the only thing Aurus could say in response to her words, not wanting the matter to escte. Fortunately, Eleanor listened to his words, taking in a deep breath as her previously fiery temper had disappeared within seconds. Pressing on her forehead, she then snapped her fingers, making a bunch of items appear in front of Aurus. ¡°Here you go. The items you need for the transition. The other items you¡¯ll have to wait for Helios and Rosalia toe.¡±

    ¡°Thank you,¡± said Aurus with great sincerity, rummaging a card with bronze borders before giving one of each to both Eleanor and Felix. Seeing the bronze card, the slightly fiery aura still surrounding Eleanor had finally disappeared as a calm smile appeared on her face. Sensing this, Aurus finally let out an inward sigh of relief.

    ¡°We¡¯ve arrived.¡± A few minutester, Helios and Rosalia had appeared in the room as well, cing a couple more items on the floor in front of Aurus. Nodding in response, Aurus sent the same cards to the two, prompting their slight frowns to disappear without a trace.

    With that, he took a look at the items the four had brought, eventually nodding in satisfaction as all of the items needed by the Existence Transition technique had been obtained. Looking at the items in front of him, he could not help but feel a slight twinge as he could not help but think about the money he had left, only amounting to around 50 million gold coins.

    ¡®In any case, as long as I y the right moves after the transition, I could definitely earn that back and even more without a problem,¡¯ he thought to himself, taking in a deep breath before looking at Horell.

    Nodding at Horell, thetter nodded back, prompting him to look at the others with a solemn expression.

    ¡°It¡¯s time.¡±  <!--

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 Chapter 445

    Chapter 445: Transition

    A few kilometers away from Verdant Breeze Town, a group of people could be seen gathering around arge inscription of sorts, watching a young man crush a couple items worth millions of gold coins before smearing it on the inscription above him.

    ¡°I¡¯ve seen a couple people use an Existence Transition technique before, but none of them needed this much preparation. In fact, the longest I could still vividly remember only took an hour to prepare,¡± Eleanor could not help but say, lightly yawning as she and the others had been standing there for over three hours already.

    Taking a quick look at the still zing sun, Aurus looked back at the inscription before replying with a sigh, ¡°What can I do? I have to follow the instructions on the technique down to the finest detail if I want to make sure that this transition goes smoothly. I don¡¯t want all of our efforts so far to go down the drain just like that.¡±

    After saying those words, everyone went silent again, allowing Aurus to continue setting up preparations for the transition. Fortunately, Aurus was finished a few minutester, wiping off the sweat from his forehead as he looked at the inscription that he had engraved on the ground.

    ¡°Horell, you go first.¡± Once he had double checked that each part of the inscription was made correctly, he stepped out of the inscription before offering Horell to go first.

    Of course, Horell didn¡¯t hesitate to ask why. ¡°And why should I be the first?¡±

    ¡°Why not?¡± Aurus chuckled. ¡°It¡¯s not like anything about the technique would change at this point. Then again, I might have mixed the ingredients wrong, scribbled the runes wrongly, or perhaps¡­¡±

    ¡°Your words just make me want to not go first even more.¡± Horell groaned as he could not help but feel a hint of regret epting Aurus¡¯ offer. Nevertheless, now that they were at this point, there was no choice but to move forward.

    With a sigh, Horell stepped on the center of the inscription soon after, letting his fate be dictated by Aurus¡¯ actions as he slowly closed his eyes.

    Seeing what Horell was doing, Aurus took in a deep breath as he recalled the contents of the [Phoenix Rebirth Technique] from start to finish, specifically its instructions on how to activate it. After making sure that he did not forget the sequence after trying to recall it a couple of times, he rubbed his hands together before cing it at one of the more detailed spots on the inscription.

    Then, without any signal whatsoever from the others, he started to circte his energy before eventually releasing it through his hands, allowing his energy to spread throughout the inscription as each part lit up one by one. Soon, an unbelievable sight was shown to Eleanor and the others, seeing each part of the inscription take on a different color.

    Eventually, the rough silhouette of a multicolored phoenix appeared within their fields of vision, prompting them to take a few steps back as they noticed that the aura surrounding Aurus gradually intensified. Letting out a deep breath, he took a look at Horell, who continued to stand in ce, before lightly nodding to himself.

    ¡°I am the storm that is approaching, provoking ck clouds of istion,¡± he chanted, an ethereal air surrounding the inscription.

    ¡°I am the reimer of my destiny, born and blessed in mes, zing with prominence once more.¡±

    ¡°I offer this life and this body to grant me a new one, to be reborn anew. To rise like a phoenix rebirthing from the ashes.¡±

    ¡°1st Forbidden Circle. Ignitio Renovis Maxima Imperium. Vitalis Regeneratio Aeternalis. [Phoenix Rebirth]!¡±

    Whoosh!

    At the very instant Aurus was done chanting, the multicolored phoenix quickly turned fiery red, its aura bing suffocating even to Eleanor and the others. Then, as if it had a mind of its own, the silhouette flew into the air before letting out a loud caw, allowing those before it to see the grandeur it held.

    After circling around the area for a bit, the phoenix then flew higher into the air before diving straight down to the center of the inscription, where Horell was.

    Bang!

    With great speed, the phoenix collided with the ground as its body crumbled into thousands upon thousands of motes of red light, giving off the feeling that Horell was not spared from its demise. However, once everything had settled down, everyone watching the process unfold saw that Horell was unscathed, empowered even.

    At the moment, a light red sheen suffused his body as it underwent a slight change. Externally, not much of a difference could be seen. However, to Eleanor and the others, who had the ability to sense a being¡¯s strength from afar, they quickly noticed that Horell¡¯s strength was dropping, eventually stopping at a certain point.

    Although they could not help but inwardly let out a sigh at what had taken ce in front of them, finding it a pity for someone to lose their power just like that, they also could not help but think about Horell¡¯s future, considering that his current foundation was now as solid as it could be, thanks to the [Phoenix Rebirth Technique].

    A couple minutester, Horell finally opened his eyes, instantly noticing that his body felt different. Opening and closing his hands a couple of times, he could not help but take in a deep breath before asking them, ¡°Did the transition seed?¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t you know the answer to that yourself?¡± asked Aurus in response, prompting Horell to close his eyes as he quickly realized that the skills he had trained and honed all this time had disappeared without a trace. Looking at Aurus, he then gave him a wry smile. ¡°Yeah, I guess the transition went without a problem.¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t worry too much about losing your skills.¡± Aurus patted his shoulder. ¡°I did tell you back then that I had a way for us to get stronger once we transitioned to Animates. Of course, I don¡¯t n on reneging that promise.¡±

    ¡°Now, step aside and let me transition as well,¡± he said soon after, prompting Horell to step out of the inscription as Aurus took his ce. Taking a seat at the center of the inscription, Aurus went ahead and did the same thing he did during Horell¡¯s transition. However, this time, he was powering the inscription from the inside, which made the process take a bit more time.

    Nevertheless, the process also went smoothly for Aurus, having a phoenix crash and burn to the ground the same way after a few minutes of infusing energy and incessant chanting. Eventually, a light red sheen suffused his body as well, prompting others to pay more attention to what happened to Aurus¡¯ body.

    Though, while that was happening, something else was urring inside Aurus at the same time.

    Ding!

    ¡®The user has undergone through the Existence Transition technique [Phoenix Rebirth Technique]. All skills and titles obtained so far shall be removed from the system.¡¯

    ¡®Due to the specialties of the technique, the user can choose to save one skill from being removed by the system.¡¯

    As he received these notifications, Aurus did not take too long toe to a decision. ¡°[Lesser Origin Affinity].¡±

    Whoosh!

    In response to that, a faint air surrounded him before spreading outward, a notification resounding his mind not long after.

    ¡®The transition isplete. [Argentum] has now changed his existence level to Animate. [Argentum] has now changed his species to Human. All skills and titles have been removed.¡¯

    ¡®As the user has not met the necessary requirements to unlock said skill, [Lesser Origin Affinity] shall remain sealed until the user has met said requirements.¡¯

    ¡®As the user is a clone of another being, all skills rted to [Spirit Imbuement] have not been removed by the system.¡¯

    ¡®The passive skill [Boundless Experience] has been added.¡¯

    ¡°Huh.¡± Reading through the list of notifications he had received after making his choice, Aurus could not help but have a strange expression on his face. ¡°In any case, the transition still went smoothly.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m guessing [Boundless Experience] was the secret little thing Lucius added,¡± he muttered soon after,manding the system to show him the skill¡¯s description as he stepped out of the inscription.

    ¡°Hmm¡­?¡±

    ¡°Well then. Lucius has definitely given us an incredible skill.¡±

    ¡­

    Within the outer regions of the Celestial ne.

    ¡°There¡¯s no end to them! Fall back!¡± A woman loudly shouted as a great number of people started to dash away from the premises. However, the opposing side would not easily allow them to do so, utilizing their overwhelming advantage of numbers to form a wave of beings that chased after them.

    Seeing that, the woman stood where she was before brandishing her de, shing outward as a great portion of the wave was bisected in two.

    ¡°[Myriad Resurrection de Art].¡±

    ¡°[Life Rending sh]!¡±

    Swoosh!

    Watching the wave gradually fall back thanks to the woman¡¯s attack, some of the people that were running away could not help but stop in their tracks before deciding to return, wanting to help the woman out in managing the wave. Realizing this, the woman could not help but curse. ¡°You bastards! When I told you to fall back, I meant it! We¡¯re no match for them!¡±

    ¡°And leave you to die here? Oh no, you¡¯reing back with us alive!¡± shouted one of the other people as they did not hold back, shooting out a beam of light that instantly vaporized a column of wave. Soon, more and more people sent out their own attacks, gradually slowing down the wave¡¯s charge to the point it was even reversing.

    Noticing this, the woman could not help but grit her teeth before letting out a curse, charging forward as she brandished her de once more.

    ¡°Just gotta endure this for a bit more, then we¡¯ll be able to return.¡±

    ¡°Heed my call and bring forth ruin!¡±

    ¡°Awaken!¡±

    ¡°Sin Eversor!¡±  <!--

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 Chapter 446

    Chapter 446: An Unexpected n

    Within the Celestial ne, at the Hall of Greater Divinity.

    ¡°Haah¡­ thank the heavens I¡¯m finally free from that ce,¡± a woman could not help but murmur  to herself as she stretched her arms out, finding great relief in it.

    ¡°More like thank the heavens WE¡¯RE finally free from that ce,¡± said a voice in response not long after, causing the woman to lightly sigh as she looked at the de sheathed around her waist. ¡°I was the one wielding you all this time, you know? You pretty much didn¡¯t have to do anything.¡±

    ¡°Says who?¡± the voice replied. ¡°You know how hard it is to channel high levels of energy through my body without imploding? On top of that, you even wanted me to transform near the very end!¡±

    The woman and the voice were none other than Kurohana and Aurus, respectively. After being alerted to the reality that demons from another universe were gradually infiltrating the Celestial ne in a bid to turn this universe into their own, Kurohana went ahead and turned Aurus into the masterwork weapon she had dreamed of all this time, being given the name Sin Eversor.

    Knowing fully well that even the tiniest bit of strength helped out in the grand scheme of things, she then made the hard decision of dispelling both Shirohana and Haihana as she returned to just being one body.

    On the other hand, Aurus went through multiple modifications, with each modification increasing the lethality of Kurohana¡¯s attacks whenever they fought against the demons. Even though only a couple of months had passed since he was reimed by her, he had already reached Lesser Primordial grade in terms of rarity, allowing him to be truly worthy of being called a weapon wielded by the gods.

    As they continued to bicker through the corridors of the hall, they eventually arrived a certain room, knocking on the door before heading in. Once inside, they quickly noticed the great amount of documents, maps, and the like strewn around the ce as a woman embodying darkness looked at them with a tired expression.

    ¡°Oh¡­ it¡¯s you two,¡± said the woman as she gave them a wry smile. ¡°I¡¯m guessing the mission went well?¡±

    ¡°It was bordering on the edge of failure, but a second wind allowed us to fight back,¡± replied Kurohana in response to her words. ¡°But forget about me for now. Have you even been resting properly, Nix?¡±

    Hearing that, Nix could only wryly chuckle in response. Grabbing a couple of the documents on the ground, she then told them, ¡°Does it look like I can?¡±

    ¡°Sure, us gods have no need for sleep anymore, but at this rate, the mental fatigue will affect your decision-making. As one of the leadingmanders in this war, you should really take a rest,¡± said Kurohana with a hint of worry.

    In response to those words, Nix came closer to Kurohana before giving her a light embrace. Seeing this, Aurus had the urge to say something in the heat of the moment. However, Kurohana¡¯s deathly re prompted him not to do so, allowing the embrace to go on for a while in silence.

    Eventually, after a few minutes had passed, Nix let go of her embrace around Kurohana, giving her a smile. ¡°Thanks. I kind of needed that.¡±

    ¡°Well, as long as it helps, I guess.¡± Kurohana could only shrug her shoulders in response. ¡°Anyways, is there anything else we can do to help?¡±

    Hearing this question, Aurus went ahead and paid more attention to the conversation, wondering what Nix would them. However, contrary to what they expected, Nix shook her head as she told them, ¡°You¡¯ve already done more than enough for the Celestial ne, Kurohana. You deserve to take a rest as well.¡±

    ¡°Can we really afford to take a rest, though?¡± Unsurprisingly, Kurohana echoed out the same thoughts Nix did at the start of their conversation. ¡°The demons are out there fighting against our people. We¡¯re on the losing end, Nix. We need to do everything we can if we want to push them back out of the Celestial ne.¡±

    ¡°You know that¡¯s easier said than done, Kurohana,¡± said Nix. Then, with a slightly grim expression, she continued, ¡°You know what we¡¯ve obtained from the reports? The scouts told us an Ancestral Demon God is leading the offensive. On the other hand, only the Immortal Verdict wielders on our side have started to make a move so far.¡±

    After that, she shook her head with a sigh. ¡°They¡¯ve already contacted the Guardians and the Overseer from the Divine Triad Pagoda, yet they still haven¡¯t obtained any response.¡±

    Hearing the term ¡®Ancestral Demon God¡¯e out of Nix¡¯s mouth, Kurohana could not help but shudder in great terror. As she had also been part of the frontlines during the First Divine Demon War, she knew very well what even a single Ancestral Demon God could do, with the Ancestral Demon God from that time quickly wiping out a third of their side in just move. Nevertheless, an Ancestral Demon God having that level of power was understandable.

    After all, Ancestral Demon Gods were equal to those who wielded Transcendent Canons, a tier above Immortal Verdicts in power.

    ¡°If the information you¡¯ve obtained is actually true¡­ then why haven¡¯t the Guardians made a move yet?¡± Kurohana could not help but ask after a moment of silence. ¡°Aren¡¯t they on par with each other?¡±

    ¡°Even I don¡¯t know the answer to that, Kurohana,¡± Nix said with a sigh. ¡°All I know is that we have to stand our ground until either the Guardians or the Overseer makes a move.¡±

    Listening to all of this, Kurohana could not help but let out a long sigh filled with worry. ¡°Is there even a way for us to even out the ying field while we wait for them?¡±

    ¡°If a being among the Greater Gods ascends their Greater Law to an Immortal Verdict, then there¡¯s the possibility of us turning the tides to our favor,¡± replied Nix, her toneced with a hint of hopelessness. Then, she looked at Kurohana. ¡°Of course, you know very well how hard it is for a Greater God to ascend to that level.¡±

    Kurohana could only nod at her words as the situation felt more and more hopeless with every passing second. It was true that bing an Immortal Verdict wielder was easier said than done. After all, even Nix, who was already showing signs of her Greater Law breaking through to a higher tier, was still a fair distance away from truly bing an Immortal Verdict wielder.

    Just as Kurohana was about to ask another question, a young man opened the door to Nix¡¯s office without hesitation, his expression that of immense terror. ¡°We¡¯ve got bad news, Commander! Another Ancestral Demon God appeared from the opposite side of the Celestial ne!¡±

    ¡°You¡¯ve got to be fucking kidding me¡­¡± was the only thing Nix could say as she whirred her brain toe up with a strategy as quick as possible. ¡°Ry my orders! Have the fast response team make their way to the other side first to mitigate our losses. While doing so, tell seven of our main teams to head to the other side as soon as possible!¡±

    ¡°As you wish!¡± With that, the young man quickly left the premises, leaving both Kurohana and Nix alone to themselves again. However, after listening to what the young man had said, Kurohana could not help but feel even more despair.

    Noticing this, Nix told Kurohana, ¡°Leave for now and take a rest, Kurohana. I¡¯ll send you your next orders once things have settled down.¡±

    ¡°But¡­¡± Naturally, Kurohana wanted to help out.

    ¡°As one of my closest friends, please Kurohana. Just leave. I don¡¯t want to yell at you,¡± said Nix in response, trying her best to contain her anger.

    Realizing what Nix was doing, Kurohana silently nodded her head as she left the premises soon after, leaving Nix to her own devices as she made her way back to her ne.

    ¡­

    Back in her ne, Kurohana could not help but let out a long sigh as Aurus started to hover in the air in front of her.

    ¡°You still thinking about the things Nix said a while ago?¡± Aurus asked after some time, to which Kurohana let out yet another long sigh in response.

    ¡°How can I not?¡± she replied. ¡°After all, the survival of our universe is at stake here. From the looks of it, the chances of our universe being taken over by them is very high.¡±

    ¡°Unfortunately, there¡¯s not much we can do about it. You¡¯re only a Greater God, after all,¡± said Aurus in response. ¡°ording to Nix, only someone at the level of an Immortal Verdict wielder would be able to make an impactful change. However, neither you nor Nix and the others are anywhere near reaching that point.¡±

    ¡°Yeah¡­¡± Hearing that, Kurohana could not help but sigh once more, only for a thought to pop up in her mind not long after. As she thought, she could not help but ponder over it in silence as her face gradually regained its naturalplexion. ¡°It might sound crazy¡­ but it just might work.¡±

    ¡°What does?¡± Naturally, Aurus could not help but ask in response, to which Kurohana sent over a strand of her energy to him, containing all of the information she had just thought about all this time.

    Obtaining the information, Aurus hovered in a ce for a while before eventually asking Kurohana in slight disbelief, ¡°Is that even possible?¡±

    ¡°Does it look like we have any other choice? Almost everyone is at their wits¡¯ end. The least we can do is find a way to help out,¡± said Kurohana in response.

    After pondering over it for a bit more, Aurus decided that it was better than doing nothing. ¡°As the one who yed the living hell with my life just so you could turn me into your magnum opus, it¡¯s definitely peculiar for you to actually do something kind.¡±

    ¡°Let¡¯s put it this way. If our universe ever gets destroyed, would you even have the chance to hate me?¡±

    ¡°Well¡­ you¡¯ve definitely got a point.¡±

    ¡­

    Erudinia, within the town leader¡¯s manor in Verdant Breeze Town.

    ¡°And so, that sums our n to get into a city-level academy as fast as possible,¡± said Aurus as everyone attentively listened to his exnation. ¡°Any other questions?¡±

    ¡°Yeah. I got a couple.¡± Horell raised his hand, which prompted Aurus to allow him to speak. ¡°You told us we¡¯ll have to collect skills in order to form skill sets. However, where are we going to get those skills in the first ce?¡±

    ¡°Well, I¡ª¡± Before Aurus could finish his question, he had disappeared all of a sudden in front of everyone, making everyone wonder as to where he had gone.

    ¡°¡­¡±

    ¡°¡­¡±

    ¡°¡­well, that sucks. I guess I¡¯ll never know the answer to my question.¡±  <!--

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 Chapter 447 Forced to Accept

    447 Forced to ept

    Within the Celestial ne, Kurohana''s space.

    Whoosh!

    As both Kurohana and the original Aurus were absentmindedly staring off into the white walls of the space, wondering when Kurohana''s move would gain a response, a silhouette appeared at the center of the white space all of a sudden, prompting the two to move closer with feelings of relief and excitement emanating from them.

    "What the¡­ where am I?" the being that had just appeared could not help but mutter in confusion, gradually taking in the sight that surrounded him. Noticing that most, if not everything he saw around him was pure white, a memory from the recesses in his mind could not help but gradually creep up. "Am I¡­ where I think I am?"

    "Yes, you are." Answering the being''s question, Kurohana made her presence known to the former, leaving the being at a loss for words as he did not expect to see the woman in front of her so soon. Noticing the being''s speechlessness, she could not help but lightly chuckle. "We meet again¡­"

    "Argentum."

    "KUROHANA!!!!" Unsurprisingly, with the fate that the original Aurus had gone through and how he had made the promise that he was going to avenge his original body, Argentum was instantly teeming with rage. Not long after, he charged towards Kurohana, wanting tond a hit on her at the very least to appease his emotions.

    But of course, Kurohana wasn''t going to let him do that.

    Snap!

    Just as Argentum was a few inches away fromnding a punch on her, Kurohana snapped her fingers out of nowhere, prompting a couple strands of energy to manifest around Argentum''s limbs before tightening soon after, quickly binding him in ce. Realizing what had just happened, Argentum tried his best to struggle and break free from the binds put on him. However, even until he exhausted almost all of his energy, the binds put on him didn''t budge.

    "Damn you! You already had your way with Aurus! Why bring me here?! Are you nning on mocking me, tormenting me that I won''t be able to avenge my original body?!" he cried out with great anger in his tone, his gaze towards Kurohana containing murderous intent.

    Hearing his words, a slight smirk could not help but appear on Kurohana''s lips in response. However, she quickly suppressed that as she remembered that there was a more important matter at hand. Ignoring the flurry of curses being thrown at her, she told him in the most neutral tone she could ever muster, "Calm down for a second, Argentum. Listen to what I have to say."

    "Listen? Why the hell would I listen to you?" was the only response she got from Argentum.

    At this point, Kurohana understood that there was no point in her talking to him. With that, she asked soon after, "Could you handle this for me?"

    "Who are you talking to? Have you finally gone mad, Kurohana? Serves you right that you''ve gone cra¡ª" Naturally, not knowing the circumstances at hand, Argentum thought that Kurohana was talking to nobody. However, at the very next moment, this thought was instantly dispelled as a voice incredibly familiar to him resounded throughout the space soon after.

    "Alright. We have to move quickly anyway."

    Whoosh!

    Just as those words had resounded throughout the space, an exquisitely crafted de soon appeared within Argentum''s view, which emanated an energy that was both familiar to him yet not at the same time.

    "Aurus¡­ is that you?" Naturally, Argentum could not believe what he was seeing. After all, he was certain that after Kurohana took Aurus away, his original body had suffered a horrible fate. However, on the contrary, here his original body was, hovering in front of him, albeit in another form. "Tell me¡­ is that really you?"

    "Who else could it be if not me, Argentum?" said Aurus in response as a faint light emanated around the sword. Soon, this light coalesced in front of the sword before forming an ethereal body that looked simr to Aurus. "In any case, it''s definitely good to see you again."

    "Of course, it''s also good to see you again, but¡­" As he looked at his original body, he could not help but look at Kurohana, then back at his original body with a confused expression. Eventually, he decided to ask the question that had popped up in his mind. "Why does it feel like you''re not mad at Kurohana anymore. Didn''t she turn you into a weapon?"

    "As you can see, she has indeed turned me into a weapon, her masterwork weapon, to be more specific," Aurus replied as he quickly gave Kurohana a nce. "As for my anger towards her, that hasn''t disappeared at all. In fact, your level of anger towards her is more or less what I''m feeling right now."

    "But why¡­"

    "Why am I not actively trying to attack Kurohana, you might ask?" Aurus said,pleting Argentum''s question. Obtaining a nod from Argentum in response, Aurus replied, "Well, that''s because there''s something far more important at the momentpared to the anger I''m feeling."

    "And this is the reason why I''ve summoned you here," added Kurohana. "The thing that''s more important to Aurus at the momentpared to his anger is the reason why you''re here."

    "And what would that be?" asked Argentum in response with a tilt of his head, deciding to ce his anger towards the goddess in front of him at the back of his head for now.

    "The universe''s potential copse," Kurohana sinctly replied, to which Aurus nodded in response.

    Hearing Kurohana''s words, Argentum could not help but think that the two of them were probably ying a prank on him. "You''ve got to be joking, right? There''s no way the universe would copse that easily."

    Listening to Argentum''s words, the two could not help but look at each other for a bit before shrugging their shoulders. Then, with a simple maniption of their energies, a strand of energy came out of Aurus and Kurohana''s body before being sent to Argentum.

    Whoosh!

    At the very moment those two strands were absorbed, a great influx of information filled his mind as it was quickly processed and organized into a timeline. There, he quickly went through the experiences the two had gone through during the past couple of months¡­

    They fought in the frontlines against the demons.

    As Argentum browsed through the memories that were sent to him, Kurohana could not help but look at Aurus. "Do you think he''ll understand?"

    "He will." Aurus nodded. "He''s my clone for a reason."

    Eventually, after about ten minutes of the two waiting in silence, Argentum finally looked back at the two, his expression telling them all of the things he had seen through the memories. In fact, Kurohana had even added the conversation between her and Nix regarding on what to do next. Even the report about the second Ancestral Demon God was not spared, being given to Argentum to see.

    "First of all¡­" Taking in a long and deep breath, Argentum asked them. "Why me? Compared to both of you, I''m nothing but a useless Animate. I have no skills whatsoever, my Tempering and Ascension skills are nowhere to be found, and my ss is still that of a normal civilian. I seriously don''t know how I could help out."

    "You might not know, but we do," Aurus said in response, with Kurohana nodding in agreement. "After all, you have a power that will definitely help turn the tides."

    "And that would be¡­?" Argentum raised his eyebrows, curious as to what he meant.

    "The power of Origin," Kurohana solemnly replied.

    "And here I thought you two were serious. You two have definitely lost it." Hearing Kurohana''s response, Argentum realized that there was no point in their conversation. However, just as he was about to say something else, Kurohana manifested a white seed out of nowhere before shooting it towards Argentum, which was quickly absorbed by his body.

    "What the¡­ what did you just give me?" Naturally, the seed did not go unnoticed, with Argentum asking the very instant he felt a small thump from the seed.

    "An Animate Spark," Kurohana exined, her bodynguage oddly nonchnt. "It''ll allow you to reach the peak of Animate without any hups, as well as allow you to customize your ss, your skills, and everything you wish to customize about your power down to the tiniest detail."

    Hearing her exnation, Argentum wondered as to why she would give him what seemed to be a precious item. Though, it did not take long for him to obtain the answer to that.

    "Of course, I''ll only allow you to absorb it if you agree to help us out."

    "As expected." Argentum let out a sigh in response. "Once again, I''ll ask you two. Why me? Why ask me, an Animate that has no ability to contribute to this war whatsoever, to help you two out?"

    "We''ve said it before, and we''ll say it again." Aurus looked at Argentum in the eye. "You have the power that will help our universe turn the tides against the demons. You have the power that''ll help our universe have a fighting chance in this war."

    "And that would be the skill that''s currently sealed in my system, right?" Argentum asked in response, to which Kurohana and Aurus nodded.

    "Of course, it''s nothing worth mentioning at its current state. But that''s why we''re going to help you reach the same existence level as me, the Divinity level," Kurohana said soon after.

    "You still haven''t convinced me, though," said Argentum. "I''m not the only one in Erudinia with the power of Origin. Why me, specifically?"

    "If I say these two words, will you help us?" Seeing that there was no point beating around the bush, Aurus decided to get straight to the point.

    "And what would those two words be?" Naturally, Argentum was curious.

    "[Spirit Resonance]."

    "¡­"

    "¡­"

    "Can I get any item I need in order to enhance my power?"

    "But of course. This goddess right here is one of the most renowned craftspeople in the universe, after all."

    "Is that so¡­ haah¡­ alright, fine. It''s not like you two are gonna give me the chance to say no anyway."

 Chapter 448

    Chapter 448: zing Through the Ranks

    Within the Celestial ne, Kurohana¡¯s space.

    A few hours had passed since Argentum had acquiesced to the request of both Aurus and Kurohana, thetter two believing that he had the power to turn the tables around in the war against the demons.

    ¡°¡­ and I guess that¡¯s thest skill I need to form that skill set,¡± murmured Argentum as he let out a sigh of satisfaction, watching as the shard of energy hovering above his palm disappear not long after. Obtaining a couple notifications from the system in response, he then went ahead andmanded the system to bring up his skill list.

    Ding!

    As a holographic screen appeared in front of his field of vision, he could not help but admire the sheer quantity of skills he now had in arsenal,pared to just a few hours ago where he only had two to his name. Thanks to Kurohana¡¯s authority as a divine craftsman, it was simple for her to get her hand on any skills Argentum needed, even ones that she thought would prove to be useless in the grand scheme of things.

    However, after sensing the aura surrounding Argentum grow stronger even after learning those skills, she could not help but take a look at Aurus, who only lightly smiled at her in response.

    Looking through his skill screen, he eventually stopped at a certain screen, focusing on the skills that had appeared after he had obtained a few certain skills. These skills were the skills that he had obtained after forming ¡®skill sets¡¯, something Aurus was all too familiar with as Argentum asked him this question. ¡°Do you think I¡¯m missing a couple more skill sets?¡±

    ¡°Let me take a look.¡± As Aurus said those words, Argentum went ahead and turned the screen around to let his original body look at it. After a moment of silence, an expression of understanding appeared on Aurus¡¯ face as he told Argentum, ¡°That¡¯s what you¡¯re nning to do, huh.¡±

    Argentum could only nod in response. ¡°So, am I missing something?¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re missing the Tenacious Mana skill set, the Damascus Mana skill set, and the Ten Heavenly Cores skill set,¡± Aurus told him, sending Argentum a strand of energy containing information on the following skill sets he mentioned. ¡°In the strand of energy are the skills you need to form those sets I just mentioned.¡±

    Absorbing the strand of energy, Argentum then looked through it before sending a couple strands of energy to Kurohana, who prompted a few shards of energy to appear out of thin air in response.

    As Argentum retrieved those shards of energy to absorb them, Kurohana could not help but look at Aurus once more. ¡°What did you mean by your previous statement? What¡¯s Argentum nning to do?¡±

    Hearing that, Aurus told her, ¡°He¡¯s going to choose a ss that¡¯ll allow him to contribute more in the war. A ss that¡¯s far from the frontlines, but has the firepower to cause extreme chaos.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re telling me¡­¡± Listening to Aurus¡¯ exnation, she quickly understood.

    Aurus nodded in response. ¡°Yes.¡±

    ¡°He¡¯s going to be a mage.¡±

    Ding!

    ¡®You have greatly exceeded the minimum requirements to create a Tempering technique. Would you like to create a Tempering technique?¡¯ Receiving a notification from the system just as he was finished forming the third skill set Aurus mentioned, Argentum could not help but look at it for a bit as he wondered if he was fully prepared.

    ¡°Hmm¡­ I¡¯ve got [Lesser Origin Affinity] unlocked, so that¡¯s one. With the help of the Sage¡¯s Liquor Kurohana gave me, all of my skills are at the peak of Tier 9 Mortal, so that¡¯s two. Yeah, I guess I could start forming the Tempering technique,¡± he murmured to himself before confirming the prompt from the system.

    Whoosh!

    At the very next instant, a great amount of light was emanated from his body, taking on various colors as an aura unbefitting of someone that was still a Rank 0 Animate surrounded him. Looking at Argentum with a hint of surprise, Aurus and Kurohana could not help but look at each other for a bit, thinking that there was a chance that they might actually turn the tides with Argentum¡¯s help.

    Eventually, everything died down as the light emanating from Argentum¡¯s body gradually disappeared. Soon, a notification resounded from his system, informing him that his Tempering technique had been created.

    Ding!

    ¡®You have created the Tempering technique [Transcendent Omniscience, Limitless Arcana].¡¯

    Reading through the notification, Argentum went ahead andmanded the system to show him the description of his newly created Tempering technique, nodding in satisfaction as he grabbed a sk that seemed to contain purple liquid before drinking it.

    Ding!

    ¡®You have fully mastered your Tempering technique. Would you like to advance to the next rank?¡¯

    ¡°Man, Sage¡¯s Liquor is definitely a pretty useful item. To think it could bring all of my skills from Tier 0 Mortal to the peak of Tier 9 Mortal. Not only that, it¡¯s pretty tasty too.¡± epting the prompt from the system once more, a sh of light surrounded Argentum¡¯s body yet again, eventually dying down a couple minutester as the aura around him had solidified.

    At this moment, Aurus could not help but look at Argentum before letting out a light cackle. ¡°Now that he¡¯s be a Rank 1 Animate¡­¡±

    ¡°There¡¯s nothing much holding him back anymore.¡±

    Whoosh!

    Just as Kurohana was about to ask Aurus as to what he meant by that, a slightly suffocating pressure emanated from Argentum¡¯s body as a great amount of energy appeared out of nowhere. Feeling this energy, Kurohana quickly realized what it was. ¡°The Animate Spark? Is he only going to start using it?¡±

    As if he was giving an answer to her question, the great amount of energy then disappeared not long after as the aura surrounding Argentum greatly intensified for a second before solidifying¡­

    Only for it to happen again¡­

    And again¡­

    And again¡­

    And again.

    Ding! Ding! Ding! Ding¡­

    ¡®You have be a Rank 1 Animate. An Ascension technique has been automatically created with your Tempering technique as reference. The Ascension technique [Endless Magic, Sage of True Boundlessness] has been created. Your ss has been changed to Transcendental Acolyte of Lesser Origin.¡¯

    ¡®Your Ascension technique has reached the limits of Rank 1. You have broken through to be a Rank 2 Animate. Your ss has been changed to Transcendental Wizard of Lesser Origin.¡¯

    ¡®Your Ascension technique has¡­¡¯

    ¡®Your Ascension technique has reached the limits of Rank 4. You have broken through to be a Rank 5 Animate. Your ss has been changed to Transcendental Sage of Lesser Origin.¡¯

    ¡®Your Ascension technique has reached the limits of Rank 5. Please undergo through an Existence Tribtion to ascend the shackles limiting your species, allowing you to ess the higher grades.¡¯

    Taking a look at thest few notifications he had received, Argentum gave Aurus a quick nce, prompting thetter to throw him a couple of things. ¡°There you go, Argentum. [Light Affinity], [Dark Affinity], and a Reality Shard.¡±

    ¡°Thanks.¡± Catching all of the things that were thrown at him, he quickly absorbed the two shards of energy that contained [Light Affinity] and [Dark Affinity] respectively before chugging a couple vials of Sage¡¯s Liquor to max both of the skills to the peak of Tier 9 Mortal. Then, he sat down cross-legged as he raised the small iridescent crystal he held towards the light. ¡°Who would think that a small crystal like this would help peopleprehend their Ideas and bring it up to the Conjecture level with no problem? And at the limit of what could be considered a Conjecture to boot?¡±

    ¡°To be honest, even I was surprised we could get Reality Shards here,¡± Aurus could not help but let out a chuckle in response. ¡°At first, I thought Reality Shards were just a thing that existed in ISE. But Kurohana told me that they also existed here as well, so just imagine how shocked I was when I knew.¡±

    shing a light smile in response to his original body¡¯s words, Argentum then closed his eyes as he allowed his energy to absorb the small crystal he held, prompting it to break off into small fragments not long after.

    Swoosh¡­

    Soon, an image started to form above Argentum¡¯s body, a that vaguely resembled Earth in its appearance. Gradually, this image became more and more solidified, eventually reaching a point where the two watching this scene unfold felt like the above Argentum was tangible. However, before they could let their curiosity get the better of them, the image quicklypressed itself as more and more-like objects appear above Argentum.

    At first, there were only two of these-like objects, then three, then four¡­

    Eventually, eight of these-like objects appeared above Argentum¡¯s head as all of them revolved around arger-like object, to which Aurus could not help but exim, ¡°Wait a minute¡­¡±

    ¡°Ain¡¯t that the sr system?¡±

    Ding!

    ¡®You haveprehended the Idea of Inferior Origin.¡¯

    ¡®You have broken through the limits of the Idea and turned into a Theory. You haveprehended the Theory of Lesser Origin.¡¯

    ¡®The skill [Lesser Origin Affinity] and your Theory of Lesser Origin has shown greatpatibility with one another, forming a resonance that has affected your Theory. With the assistance of [Light Affinity], [Dark Affinity], and your Theory, the skill [Lesser Origin Affinity] has been upgraded to [Greater Origin Affinity].¡¯

    ¡®You have solidified the basis of your Theory, forming a Conjecture. You haveprehended the Conjecture of Greater Origin.¡¯

    Whoosh!

    Just as Argentum had obtained the notification that he had formed his Conjecture, the aura surrounding him then intensified once more as multiple clouds filled with dark lightning appeared above his head. Noticing this, Kurohana and Aurus could not help but pay a bit more attention.

    ¡°An Existence Tribtion of the highest tier¡­¡± Kurohana muttered.

    ¡°Eh. He¡¯ll be fine,¡± said Aurus in response as he shrugged his shoulders.

    Bang! Bang! Bang!

    Not long after the clouds had formed, multiple bolts of dark lightning struck at Argentum, only for an iridescent barrier to appear around him. While doing so, he went ahead and absorbed a great portion of the energying from the dark bolts, utilizing the energy to reforge his body as the aura surrounding him now gave off the feeling of vastness.

    Bang! Bang! Bang!

    Eventually, once nine bolts of dark lightning were shot at Argentum, the clouds above his head disappeared as Argentum now gave off hints of the power that Kurohana currently wielded, the power of divinity.

    Crackle¡­ crackle¡­

    Opening his eyes, Argentum slowly stood up as his skin started to crack before falling off, revealing skin that was as smooth as jade, yet had the power of the gods themselves.

    Ding! Ding! Ding! Ding¡­

    ¡®You have sessfully passed your Existence Tribtion. Your Ascension technique has reached greater heights.¡¯

    ¡®You have broken through to be a Rank 6 Animate. Your species has been changed to Primordial Human (Quasi-Divinity). Your ss has been changed to True Sage of Greater Origin.¡¯

    ¡®Your Ascension technique has reached the limits¡­¡¯

    ¡®Your Ascension technique has reached the limits of Rank 8. You have broken through to be a Rank 9 Animate. Your ss has been changed to Ancestral Sage of Greater Origin.¡¯

    ¡®Your Ascension technique has reached the limits of Rank 9. Please ascend your Conjecture to a Principle to gain ess to the world above mortals.¡¯

    As he looked at both Kurohana and Aurus for a bit, the slightly suffocating aura Argentum gave off instantly disappeared without a trace as he gave the two a suggestion. ¡°Hey, I just got an idea.¡±

    ¡°How about you summon a couple more people to help out and give them the same things you gave me?¡±  <!--

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 Chapter 449 Summoning

    449 Summoning

    Listening to Argentum''s suggestion, Aurus could not help but ponder over it for a bit before looking at Kurohana. "Now that I think about it, yeah. Why haven''t you done that in the first ce, Kurohana? Surely, as one of the most well-renowned divine craftspeople in the universe, you''d have the ability to do that, no?"

    "I would¡­" Kurohana lightly nodded in response before scratching her head soon after, letting out a light sigh. "If it wasn''t for the fact that I just came up with the idea a while ago. With all of that said, I''ve only procured enough materials to raise one being to my level."

    "Hmm¡­" Listening to Kurohana''s words, Argentum could not help but go silent for a bit, thinking about something. Eventually, he looked back at her before asking, "But what if they don''t need to reach the same level? Just the bare minimum necessary for them to actually make a difference in the frontlines?"

    Hearing his clone''s words, Aurus'' interest was quickly piqued as he urged him to continue. "Could you borate on that, Argentum?"

    "Correct me if I''m wrong, but you''re a Greater God, right Kurohana?" Nodding in response to his original body''s words, Argentum looked at the goddess in front of him.

    "That would be correct, yes." Kurohana nodded.

    "With that in mind, what kind of gods rank lower than you? Following that same thought, what kind of gods would rank higher than you?" he asked, to which Kurohana replied, "Faux Gods and Lesser Gods would be gods considered below my level. As for those above me, those would be the Immortal Verdict wielders, the Guardians, and then the Overseer, in that order."

    "Yeah¡­ I think it could work," Argentum said after taking Kurohana''s words into consideration. Just as thetter was about to ask what he meant by that, Argentum then told Kurohana, "In short, what I''m asking is¡­ would it be possible for you to procure materials capable of ascending one to the Lesser God level? And if that''s too much, how about the Faux God level?"

    Hearing those words, Kurohana finally understood what Argentum was trying to suggest, pondering over the suggestion for a bit before giving him an answer. "If it''s the Lesser God level, I could probably get enough materials to ascend three people. For the Faux God level, probably around 10 or so."

    "Great!" Hearing that it was possible, Argentum naturally jumped for joy as he told her, "I have a feeling we''re aiming for quality over quantity here, so I''ll just ask you to summon a couple people. We''re aiming to have them reach the Lesser God level?"

    "Also, would I still be able to reach the Greater God level?" he added soon after, to which Kurohana nodded. "Yeah, I''ll be grabbing new items for the Lesser Gods anyway."

    "Alright." Nodding in response to those words, Argentum then sent a strand of energy to Kurohana, containing information on a couple people Argentum knew that would help them out in the war very well. "Here are the people I want you to summon. Although they might not seem like much, with my guidance and the materials you give them, I''m certain they''ll definitely be of great use."

    Deciding to trust in Argentum''s words for now, Kurohana absorbed the strand of energy she had received from Argentum, her eyes slightly widening as she finally found out the identities of the two people Argentum wanted to be summoned. As a light smile briefly appeared on her face, she could not help but think to herself, ''The experiment of another Greater God¡­''

    ''¡­and the Child of Mana, huh.''

    ''I wonder if Argentum knows of their true identities?'' Shaking her head as she ced those thoughts to the back of her head, she went ahead and began preparations on the same spell she used to summon Argentum into her ne. However, this time, she was going to summon two other people.

    "Oh, Kurohana. Since you''re already summoning two people, I have another person I want you to summon." Just as Kurohana was about to finalize the spell toplete the summoning, Aurus said all of a sudden, prompting her to stall the spell for now.

    "And who would that be?" Kurohana raised her eyebrows in response.

    "Remember the man who fought against me while I went on a rampage in Seraph Kingdom? That one," Aurus said in response, his mind thinking of the man that seemed to touch on a higher level of reality with the sword he wielded.

    However, instead of interpreting Aurus'' words the same way he did, Kurohana instead thought about another person altogether, recalling of the man''s ability to string together spells while being knowledgeable as to what kind of environment the man is fighting in. Nodding in response, Kurohana told him, "Alright. I''ll add him into the summoning spell. Good choice, actually."

    Whoosh!

    With that, Kurohana continued infusing her energy into the summoning spell she had prepared, modifying it a bit to amodate the summoning of three people at once. Thankfully, with the help of a couplews she had gained permission to ess sometime ago, she was sessful inpleting the spell, prompting three silhouettes to appear at the center of the three not long after.

    "Where¡­" Just as those silhouettes in the center of the white space, two of them, a man and a woman, could not help but look at their surroundings with great confusion. However, once their sights focused on a certain man, the two of them could not help but have smiles on their faces as they hastily ran towards him. "Aurus!"

    "Herellia! Horell!" Knowing who the two were referring to, Argentum spread out his arms as he gave them a tight embrace. "I apologize for disappearing all of a sudden."

    "You have a lot of exining to do, you know?" Horell said in response. "It''s been a couple of days since you disappeared, plus you didn''t even answer my question."

    "In any case, the two of us definitely missed you¡­" Herellia said soon after, only for her eyes to widen in surprise as she took a couple steps back. Then, looking at Argentum from head to toe, she could not help but tilt her head in confusion as she asked him, "Is it just me¡­ or have you gotten stronger, Aurus?"

    nor does it seem like a small dimension¡­"

    10:24

    "Hello there." Just as the man continued to look around the white space, finding it quite peculiar for Hearing her words, Horell took a few steps back before trying to sense Argentum''s strength as well. Noticing what they were doing, Argentum let out a light chuckle before allowing the entirety of his aura to spread throughout the space, cing a great amount of pressure on the two as beads of cold sweat formed on their foreheads.

    Feeling Argentum''s aura pushing down on them, the two of them could not help but wonder what Argentum had gone through while he was gone for him to have gotten this strong.

    As for the third silhouette, the man could not help but look around as he scratched his head. "I wonder where I''ve been sent to? From the energies I could sense, this doesn''t seem like a subspace, nor does it seem like a small dimension¡­"

    "Hello there." Just as the man continued to look around the white space, finding it quite peculiar for a space to be incredibly white, Aurus came up to him and waved at him. "I''m guessing you must be Dalton Thymesis, right?"

    "That would be me, indeed." Hearing his name being mentioned, Dalton could only nod. As he looked at the being who greeted him, he could not help but notice the weapon hovering behind the man''s back, feeling like the weapon was quite familiar. Eventually, everything clicked in his mind as he eximed, "Ah! Eversor! Then that means¡­"

    "Yeah. I would be Verdante." Aurus nodded in response. "Speaking of which¡­"

    "Hey, Horell! Herellia! Don''t you remember me?"

    Hearing their names being called, Horell and Herellia looked in the direction of the voice who called him, only to notice a body of energy that looked quite simr to Argentum beside them. After being confused for a bit, the two finally pieced two and two together as their mouths went agape. "Aurus?!"

    "Seems like you two finally remember." Aurusughed in response. After that, he looked at Argentum. "Also, why didn''t you tell me you took up my name once I got taken away by Kurohana?"

    "I was nning to avenge you, just so you know," Argentum replied with a shrug of his shoulders. "Plus, I wasn''t expecting to be summoned here by the same goddess that took you away."

    At that moment, only then did the three new people notice that there was another person in the white space they were in, a woman who, at first nce, didn''t give off the feeling that she was a goddess. However, after seeing the neers look at her, she went ahead and spread out her divine aura in full view, making the three realize that they were in front of an existence they would never normallye across.

    "Before you say anything, no. You''re not dead. Instead, you three have been summoned here at the request of the two here to help us out in saving our universe," Kurohana said in a solemn tone. "Before I continue, let me first introduce myself."

    "My name is Kurohana."

    "And I am the Greater Goddess of Reincarnation."

 Chapter 450

    Chapter 450: Birth of the Monstrous Quartet

    After introducing herself to the three, much to the awe of thetter, she went ahead and exined the current situation of the Celestial ne, as well as the universe they were in, and how they were in deep trouble if nothing about their current ns were changed. While doing so, she went ahead and sent them a strand of energy each, all of them containing memories of her and Aurus being at the frontlines.

    Looking through the memories they¡¯ve received, the three could not help but have solemn expressions on their faces as they paid more attention to the goddess¡¯ words. Eventually, Kurohana was finished talking, allowing the three to ask questions of their own.

    ¡°So¡­ if I¡¯m getting this right, our universe is on the brink of destruction because we¡¯re being invaded by demons?¡± Dalton asked, to which Kurohana nodded.

    ¡°And the demons have already mobilized beings that are on par with the strongest beings in the universe. However, our strongest beings haven¡¯t made a move yet,¡± said Herellia soon after, prompting to Kurohana to nod once more.

    ¡°Now, you¡¯re tasking Auru¡ª I mean, Argentum here to help you out in saving the universe since he has a power capable of turning the tides towards our favor,¡± Horell said after that. ¡°And because of a suggestion from him, us three were summoned here.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯ve more or less summed it up very well,¡± Kurohana said in response, nodding in satisfaction. Though, a light sigh escaped her mouth soon after as she asked them, ¡°I¡¯m pretty sure you¡¯ve noticed something peculiar, right? Why haven¡¯t the Guardians and the Overseer made their moves yet?¡±

    Nodding in response to their words, the three perked up their ears, wanting to know why. Even Argentum, who was absorbing a couple shards of energy, spared a bit of his focus towards the conversation at hand.

    Seeing that everyone wanted to know, Kurohana could not help but scratch her head for a bit, wondering if it was better for them to know or not. Eventually, she decided to spill the beans, telling them, ¡°Although not everyone in the Celestial ne knows of this yet, I¡¯ve been given this information due to the close friendship I have with our universe¡¯smander, Nix.¡±

    ¡°She had also obtained this news quite recently, about five or so minutes ago before I was finished exining. However, unlike me, she¡¯s nning to keep the secret hidden for as long as she could because she knows how much a piece of news like this can affect morale.¡± At this moment, all of them were silent, wondering what kind of news she had obtained to let those words escape her mouth.

    Taking in a deep breath, she let out a long sigh. With a pained expression, she said, ¡°They won¡¯t being anytime soon to help us out.¡±

    ¡°What?!¡± Naturally, all of them were shocked to hear those wordse out of her mouth. Allowing them to recover from the shock, she continued, ¡°ording to her, the Guardians and the Overseer were ambushed under our noses by the two Ancestral Demon Gods leading charge¡­¡±

    ¡°¡­and the Eternal Demon Sovereign of their universe.¡±

    Hearing those words, all of them were rendered speechless. Even Argentum was not exempt from this fate, halting his absorption of the energy shards as he processed what she had said.

    Although they had just recently arrived in this ce, the power system of the universe was exined to them very well, with Faux Gods and Lesser Gods making up the majority of the beings of the universe. A step above those would be the Greater Gods, beings that even Lesser Gods would rarelye across.

    A step above that would be the Immortal Verdict wielders, with theirw controlling thews of a few Greater Gods. Then, there were the Transcendent Canon wielders, the Guardians, and at the peak of the hierarchy, stood the holder of the Primordial Decree, the Overseer.

    From what she had exined to them, the Ancestral Demon Gods were already at the level of their Guardians, causing them to frown as they estimated their chances of winning the war with only the Immortal Verdict wielders being their strongest cards. But now that they¡¯d heard the Eternal Demon Sovereign also make a move, a being equivalent to their Overseer, they could not help but think that what they were doing was futile.

    However, rather than feel like the best choice was to give up, the three in front of Kurohana quickly had determined expressions on their faces as they looked at each other before nodding in unison. With that, they turned around to head to where Argentum was, who also had the same expression as them.

    ¡°I¡¯m guessing you three have also reached the same thought, huh,¡± Argentum told them, to which he was greeted by wry smiles on their faces.

    Wryly smiling in response to their faces before letting out a light chuckle, he then told them, ¡°I know all four of us here would rather not be a part of this and continue on with our daily lives without a care for the world, but now that we¡¯ve been informed of this¡­¡±

    ¡°Can we really even back down?¡±

    ¡°Just so you know, you brought us here beyond our own volition,¡± Horell rified, to which Dalton and Herellia nodded in agreement. Though, just as Argentum was about to apologize to them, smiles could be seen on their faces.

    ¡°However¡­ I feel like you made the right choice to summon us.¡±

    ¡°Dalton, Argentum, help us reach the peak of Rank 9 Animate first before we all aim for the Transcendent level,¡± Herellia said after that, prompting the two mages to nod in response.

    Then, with a grin, she continued, ¡°Of course, after that is Divinity¡­¡±

    ¡°¡­then mayhem.¡±

    With that, the four of them got to work, with Dalton and Argentum informing the two as to which skills to take in order to make sure they would create their optimal sses. As for Kurohana and Aurus, the two of them looked at each other for a bit before Aurus decided to ask her, ¡°Now that they¡¯ve started to busy themselves¡­¡±

    ¡°Who¡¯s the other man you summoned?¡±

    ¡°Isn¡¯t he the man you fought against the Seraph Kingdom?¡± Kurohana asked, prompting Aurus to go silent for a bit before profusely shaking his head. ¡°Of course, you know that¡¯s not the man I was talking about. I was talking about the man that was great with the sword. I had a feeling he would help out a lot.¡±

    ¡°Or so you¡¯d think,¡± said Kurohana in response, as a light smile appeared on her face.

    ¡°What¡¯s got you smiling?¡± asked Aurus all of a sudden.

    ¡°Oh, nothing.¡± Saying these words, she could not help but take a close look at Dalton, stealthily scanning him with her energy before inwardly nodding in satisfaction.

    ¡°It¡¯s just that we might have two Greater Gods by the end of this.¡±

    ¡­

    With that, Argentum and the others busied themselves, with Argentum and Dalton aiding both Herellia and Horell in reaching the peak of Rank 9 Animate. Surprisingly, Herellia had chosen to take a ss that seemed to lean more towards a close-ranged offensive, while Horell took a ss that was more on buffing what they already had, while also having the ability to heal great amounts of health in a short amount of time.

    Realizing this, a thought could not help but form in Argentum¡¯s mind, suggesting it to the others that the four of them should move as a team on the battlefield once they were all done reaching the level of Divinity. Unsurprisingly, the other three agreed to his request, finding the suggestion a normal extension of what they were already doing.

    Eventually, the four of them had broken through to the Transcendent level, all of them bing Rank 1 Transcendents that had control over their own Principles. For Argentum, he had gained control over the Principle of Grand Origin, a step above Greater Origin that also included the element of Time and Space. As for Dalton, he formed a Principle based on the nigh endless amount of spells he had memorized, while Herellia and Horell had formed simple yet terrifying Principles of their own, the Principle of Endless Blood and the Principle of Endless Mana, respectively.

    After that, they zed through the ranks and reach the peak of the Transcendent level, their Principles now Evesting Principles. At that point, Kurohana gave them the items they needed to break through to the final level of existence, the Divinity level.

    Crack! Crack! Crack! Crack!

    Seemingly in unison, the four of them had ascended to a higher ne of existence, their auras now more or less a quarter of the aura Kurohana emanated when she went all out. Realizing this, the four of them looked at each other and nodded with smiles on their faces. Within just a week, the four of them were now officially in the Divinity level.

    However, their adventure did not end there, with Dalton, Herellia, and Horell breaking through to the Lesser God level, taking hold of their respective Lesser Laws once their Pseudo-Laws had evolved. As for Argentum, he had gone a step beyond, reaching the level beyond Lesser Gods as he had forged his Greater Law.

    Ding!

    ¡®You have absorbed the Law Fragment of Life and the Law Fragment of Death. Your Lesser Law of True Origin is undergoing a metamorphosis.¡¯

    ¡®Your Lesser Law of True Origin has now be the Greater Law of Greater True Origin. [True Origin Affinity] has now evolved to [Greater True Origin Affinity].¡¯

    ¡®You have ascended to the Greater God level. Your ss is now Greater Divine Monarch of True Origin.¡¯

    Obtaining these notifications from the system, a burst of light spread out of Argentum¡¯s body as the energy emanating from his body had now matched Kurohana¡¯s. In fact, at some parts, his energy had even exceeded hers, prompting Kurohana to nod in satisfaction as she said with a light smile, ¡°Thankfully, my materials have not gone to waste.¡±

    She then looked at Dalton and the others. ¡°You three have also exceeded my expectations.¡±

    Just as Kurohana was about to tell the four of them something else, a screen appeared in front of Kurohana¡¯s vision all of a sudden, revealing a beautiful woman in dark clothing. ¡°Hey, Kurohana. Sorry to disturb you while you¡¯re taking a rest, but would you mind sweeping away the Depraved Deity armies located in Sector 5-C?¡±

    In response, she could not help but look beyond the screen, her gaze fixated on Argentum and the others. Then, with a light smile, she looked back at the woman before nodding. ¡°Of course.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯d be d to.¡±  <!--

    -->

 Chapter 451 Fruits of Labor

    451 Fruits of Labor

    After talking with the woman in dark clothing for a bit more, with Kurohana asking the woman about certain things such as the number of enemies they would have to face, as well as the general terrain, their conversation eventually ended as the screen in front of her disappeared.

    Seeing that she was done talking, Argentum decided to be the first to talk. "Who was that, Kurohana?"

    "Nix, themander of our side," she replied. "I''m sure all of you heard what she said, right?"

    Dalton nodded in response. "She''s asking you if you could clean up the Depraved Deity armies located in Sector 5-C."

    "Correct." Kurohana nodded. After that, she pointed at the four of them. "Although I''ll be apanying you four to the ce, the ones who''ll be doing task she gave me¡­"

    "¡­will be you guys."

    "Us?" Hearing that, Horell could not help but swallow a bit of his saliva in nervousness. "You''re telling us to fight against Depraved Deity armies, armies that are not only at the same level as us, but also have more people than us? Doesn''t that sound a bit too far-fetched?"

    "Plus, can we even deal enough damage to actuallyplete that task?" he murmured not long after, prompting a light smile to appear on Kurohana''s face in response. "You should have more faith in yourselves."

    As she said that, she stealthily sensed everyone''s aura, feeling that the weakest among the four had an aura around 80% of hers. On the other hand, the strongest aura among them seemed to be twice as powerful than her aura at full power, prompting her to inwardly nod in satisfaction.

    After informing the four a couple more things regarding the Celestial ne and the ce they were heading to, the six of them prepared for departure, with Aurus returning to his de form. Seeing his original body do something like that, Argentum could not help but say, "Even though I''ve seen you do it a couple times already, I still haven''t gotten used to it."

    "You definitely should," Aurus replied, his voice resounding from Kurohana''s waist. "With how much fighting we''ll have to do, you''ll see me in this form more often."

    In the meantime, a thought surfaced in Kurohana''s mind as she looked at Dalton, catching his attention with a simple snap of her fingers. "What is it?"

    "I almost forgot. Take this," Kurohana said in response, manifesting a white crystal out of thin air before throwing it to Dalton. Watching Dalton stare at the white crystal she threw, she then told him, "Absorb it. It''ll help you out."

    Hearing that, Dalton tilted his head in slight confusion, as well as suspicion that Kurohana might be lying. However, recalling the great amount of items he had interacted with, most of which were things he hadn''t evene across in Erudinia, he decided to ignore the feeling as he absorbed the crystal through his body.

    Whoosh!

    Bang!

    At the very moment his body had absorbed the crystal, the energy within Dalton''s body underwent massive upheaval as each strand was refined to its utter limit, gradually making the aura around him feel weaker for a bit. Though, not long after, a small explosion had urred within his body, prompting this refined energy to coarse throughout his body in waves as his aura had reached a new peak. By the end of it, his aura seemed to be around the same level as Argentum''s, prompting the other three to realize what had just happened.

    In fact, it did not take long for Dalton to realize the same thing as well. "Greater God level¡­"

    With the same thing in mind, the four of them looked at Kurohana, who only shrugged her shoulders in response. "What? I just gave him a God Spark, that''s all."

    "But¡­ how the hell did he break through the Greater God level so quickly? Surely we were far away from reaching that point, right?" Horell could not help but ask in response, with Herellia nodding in agreement.

    "Well, unlike you two, there was actually a hint of divinity hidden deep within his body before he even became a Lesser God," Kurohana exined. "I just awakened that divinity with a God Spark. After all, the best way to wake up divinity¡­ is with more divinity."

    "Anyways, we''ve already wasted quite a bit of time," she said, prompting the four to recall what they were originally going to do. Being reminded, the four quickly got prepared as the six of them quickly left the white space.

    Now in the middle of the void of space, Argentum and the others could not help but look around, taking in the sights with great awe. Unfortunately, they could not enjoy that feeling for long, with Kurohana tasking Argentum to be the one to carry them to the ce. Hearing that, Argentum nodded in response, utilizing his energy to create a tform where all of them could step on before propelling it through the power of his Greater Law, specifically the portion that interacted with Space.

    Swoosh!

    With great speed, they zoomed through the vast nothingness of the Celestial ne. At some point, Kurohana could not help butment, "Even though you haven''t fully grasped the power of Space yet, we''re already moving far greater than my maximum speed."

    "How fast is your maximum speed?" Herellia asked, curious.

    "55 light years a second, 80 if I really pushed myself," Kurohana replied, making the three''s mouths go agape as they found the value unfathomable. However, recalling that all of them were now gods in their own right, they quickly closed them up as Herellia continued, "And how fast are we going currently, then?"

    "About 150 light years a second," Kurohana said, only to add something a couple secondster. "If Argentum gains a better grasp over the power of Space, it''s not impossible for us to be moving at 500 light years a second. If he taps into the power of Time as well, we might be able to reach 5000 light years a second."

    "Speaking of which, all of you should get used to your newfound powers before we arrive," she told them before gazing at Argentum. "The same goes for you, Argentum. In fact, among the four of you, you''re the one who needs to get used to your powers the most."

    "Already doing that," said Argentum in response. "Slowly getting used to manipting more and more of my Greater Law. I think we''re moving around 200 light years a second now since I''ve finally grasped how to control the power of Wind."

    Hearing that, a light smile could not help but appear on Kurohana''s face again. ''It seems I''ve made the right choice.''

    ''There really may be a chance for us to turn the tides.''

    ¡­

    As they traveled through the Celestial ne, Argentum''s mastery with his Greater Law grew with time, their speeds eventually reaching over a thousand light years a second by the time they were around halfway to where they needed to do. Of course, the others were also familiarizing themselves with their newfound strengths, with all of their auras even strengthening quite a bit due to them bing more familiar with what they could and could not do.

    Eventually, the six of them had arrived at the part of the Celestial ne themander sectioned as Sector 5-C. Dispelling the tform everyone stood on, Argentum soared ever higher in space to get a better view of what they were going to be up against from far away. "How many Depraved Deity armies are there¡­?"

    From what his eyes could see, a great number of demons blotted out the portion of space in front of him, all of them emanating energy that they were familiar with, the energy of divinity.

    However, there was something else to their energy. A stench that seemed to act like the antithesis of the energy within their bodies.

    Their Sins.

    "ording to Nix, we''ll have to wipe out at least a hundred of the Depraved Deity armies before us," Kurohana said to the four of them. "Just so you know, all of them have the Sin of Hunger, so make sure to not let them devour their fallenrades¡­ lest you want to fight against True Demon Gods."

    "Duly noted." Nodding in response to her words, Argentum went ahead and moved closer to where Horell and the others were. "So, who wants to test out their skills first?"

    "My skills are made to buff and heal you guys, so I''ll have to use my skills either way," Horell said in response. "Instead, the question you should ask is who among the three of you shall attack first?"

    "You know¡­ I''ve been curious to find out the power of Origin Kurohana and Verdante have been talking about," Dalton said all of a sudden, prompting a light smile to appear on Herellia''s face. "Why don''t you go first, Argentum?"

    "I''m d you asked." In response to those words, a grin appeared on Argentum''s face as the intent to find out how strong he had be emanated from him. Moving a few meters away from the three, he then closed his eyes before extending out his palms, coursing energy through them. "Horell, use all of your offensive buffs on me."

    "Was going to do that either way." Horell nodded, extending out one of his arms as he pointed it towards Argentum. Soon, multiple strands of multicolored energy shot out of his extended arm as all of them made its way to thetter.

    "[Codex of Offense: Ninth Divine Verse]."

    "[Sage''s Unending Wisdom]."

    "[Sage''s Unending Mana]."

    "¡­"

    "[Endless Mana Reformation Art: Enhancement Style]¡­"

    "[Origin Rune of Offense]."

    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!

    Within mere moments, the aura surrounding Argentum spiked to an immense degree as the three felt overwhelming power coursing throughout his body. Deciding to distance themselves from him, they eagerly watched Argentum make his move, as well as the aftermath that was about toe.

    On the other hand, Argentum felt great amounts of strength course throughout his body, redirecting all of it towards the ends of his palms as he tapped into his energy, as well as the Greater Law he had forged.

    "I control the Origin, the essence of the universe."

    Fwoosh!

    At the end of his first statement, a small magic circle appeared in front of his palms. However, even that was enough to attract the attention of a few of the demon armies, prompting them to charge at him.

    "With my body as the vessel, and my will as the conductor, Imand the universe to listen to my words."

    Not long after, this magic circle greatly expanded its size, with multiple intricate runes appearing within it. At this point, a great portion of the demon armies were already halfway to where he was.

    "For my firstmand¡­"

    "Birth the universe anew."

    "[Divine True Origin Art]¡­"

    "¡­"

    "¡­"

    "[Advent]."

    ¡­

    ¡­

    Bang!

    Time for the battles to start.

    Hope you enjoyed the chapter!

    10:26

    TrueDawn

    After talking with the woman in dark clothing for a bit more, with Kurohana asking the woman about certain things such as the number of enemies they would have to face, as well as the general terrain, their conversation eventually ended as the screen in front of her disappeared.

    Seeing that she was done talking, Argentum decided to be the first to talk. "Who was that, Kurohana?"

    "Nix, themander of our side," she replied. "I''m sure all of you heard what she said, right?"

    Dalton nodded in response. "She''s asking you if you could clean up the Depraved Deity armies located in Sector 5-C."

    "Correct." Kurohana nodded. After that, she pointed at the four of them. "Although I''ll be apanying you four to the ce, the ones who''ll be doing task she gave me¡­"

    "¡­will be you guys."

    "Us?" Hearing that, Horell could not help but swallow a bit of his saliva in nervousness. "You''re telling us to fight against Depraved Deity armies, armies that are not only at the same level as us, but also have more people than us? Doesn''t that sound a bit too far-fetched?"

    "Plus, can we even deal enough damage to actuallyplete that task?" he murmured not long after, prompting a light smile to appear on Kurohana''s face in response. "You should have more faith in yourselves."

    As she said that, she stealthily sensed everyone''s aura, feeling that the weakest among the four had an aura around 80% of hers. On the other hand, the strongest aura among them seemed to be twice as powerful than her aura at full power, prompting her to inwardly nod in satisfaction.

    After informing the four a couple more things regarding the Celestial ne and the ce they were heading to, the six of them prepared for departure, with Aurus returning to his de form. Seeing his original body do something like that, Argentum could not help but say, "Even though I''ve seen you do it a couple times already, I still haven''t gotten used to it."

    "You definitely should," Aurus replied, his voice resounding from Kurohana''s waist. "With how much fighting we''ll have to do, you''ll see me in this form more often."

    In the meantime, a thought surfaced in Kurohana''s mind as she looked at Dalton, catching his attention with a simple snap of her fingers. "What is it?"

    "I almost forgot. Take this," Kurohana said in response, manifesting a white crystal out of thin air before throwing it to Dalton. Watching Dalton stare at the white crystal she threw, she then told him, "Absorb it. It''ll help you out."

    Hearing that, Dalton tilted his head in slight confusion, as well as suspicion that Kurohana might be lying. However, recalling the great amount of items he had interacted with, most of which were things he hadn''t evene across in Erudinia, he decided to ignore the feeling as he absorbed the crystal through his body.

    Whoosh!

    Bang!

    At the very moment his body had absorbed the crystal, the energy within Dalton''s body underwent massive upheaval as each strand was refined to its utter limit, gradually making the aura around him feel weaker for a bit. Though, not long after, a small explosion had urred within his body, prompting this refined energy to coarse throughout his body in waves as his aura had reached a new peak. By the end of it, his aura seemed to be around the same level as Argentum''s, prompting the other three to realize what had just happened.

    In fact, it did not take long for Dalton to realize the same thing as well. "Greater God level¡­"

    With the same thing in mind, the four of them looked at Kurohana, who only shrugged her shoulders in response. "What? I just gave him a God Spark, that''s all."

    "But¡­ how the hell did he break through the Greater God level so quickly? Surely we were far away from reaching that point, right?" Horell could not help but ask in response, with Herellia nodding in agreement.

    "Well, unlike you two, there was actually a hint of divinity hidden deep within his body before he even became a Lesser God," Kurohana exined. "I just awakened that divinity with a God Spark. After all, the best way to wake up divinity¡­ is with more divinity."

    "Anyways, we''ve already wasted quite a bit of time," she said, prompting the four to recall what they were originally going to do. Being reminded, the four quickly got prepared as the six of them quickly left the white space.

    Now in the middle of the void of space, Argentum and the others could not help but look around, taking in the sights with great awe. Unfortunately, they could not enjoy that feeling for long, with Kurohana tasking Argentum to be the one to carry them to the ce. Hearing that, Argentum nodded in response, utilizing his energy to create a tform where all of them could step on before propelling it through the power of his Greater Law, specifically the portion that interacted with Space.

    Swoosh!

    With great speed, they zoomed through the vast nothingness of the Celestial ne. At some point, Kurohana could not help butment, "Even though you haven''t fully grasped the power of Space yet, we''re already moving far greater than my maximum speed."

    "How fast is your maximum speed?" Herellia asked, curious.

    "55 light years a second, 80 if I really pushed myself," Kurohana replied, making the three''s mouths go agape as they found the value unfathomable. However, recalling that all of them were now gods in their own right, they quickly closed them up as Herellia continued, "And how fast are we going currently, then?"

    "About 150 light years a second," Kurohana said, only to add something a couple secondster. "If Argentum gains a better grasp over the power of Space, it''s not impossible for us to be moving at 500 light years a second. If he taps into the power of Time as well, we might be able to reach 5000 light years a second."

    "Speaking of which, all of you should get used to your newfound powers before we arrive," she told them before gazing at Argentum. "The same goes for you, Argentum. In fact, among the four of you, you''re the one who needs to get used to your powers the most."

    "Already doing that," said Argentum in response. "Slowly getting used to manipting more and more of my Greater Law. I think we''re moving around 200 light years a second now since I''ve finally grasped how to control the power of Wind."

    Hearing that, a light smile could not help but appear on Kurohana''s face again. ''It seems I''ve made the right choice.''

    ''There really may be a chance for us to turn the tides.''

    ¡­

    As they traveled through the Celestial ne, Argentum''s mastery with his Greater Law grew with time, their speeds eventually reaching over a thousand light years a second by the time they were around halfway to where they needed to do. Of course, the others were also familiarizing themselves with their newfound strengths, with all of their auras even strengthening quite a bit due to them bing more familiar with what they could and could not do.

    Eventually, the six of them had arrived at the part of the Celestial ne themander sectioned as Sector 5-C. Dispelling the tform everyone stood on, Argentum soared ever higher in space to get a better view of what they were going to be up against from far away. "How many Depraved Deity armies are there¡­?"

    From what his eyes could see, a great number of demons blotted out the portion of space in front of him, all of them emanating energy that they were familiar with, the energy of divinity.

    However, there was something else to their energy. A stench that seemed to act like the antithesis of the energy within their bodies.

    Their Sins.

    "ording to Nix, we''ll have to wipe out at least a hundred of the Depraved Deity armies before us," Kurohana said to the four of them. "Just so you know, all of them have the Sin of Hunger, so make sure to not let them devour their fallenrades¡­ lest you want to fight against True Demon Gods."

    "Duly noted." Nodding in response to her words, Argentum went ahead and moved closer to where Horell and the others were. "So, who wants to test out their skills first?"

    "My skills are made to buff and heal you guys, so I''ll have to use my skills either way," Horell said in response. "Instead, the question you should ask is who among the three of you shall attack first?"

    "You know¡­ I''ve been curious to find out the power of Origin Kurohana and Verdante have been talking about," Dalton said all of a sudden, prompting a light smile to appear on Herellia''s face. "Why don''t you go first, Argentum?"

    "I''m d you asked." In response to those words, a grin appeared on Argentum''s face as the intent to find out how strong he had be emanated from him. Moving a few meters away from the three, he then closed his eyes before extending out his palms, coursing energy through them. "Horell, use all of your offensive buffs on me."

    "Was going to do that either way." Horell nodded, extending out one of his arms as he pointed it towards Argentum. Soon, multiple strands of multicolored energy shot out of his extended arm as all of them made its way to thetter.

    "[Codex of Offense: Ninth Divine Verse]."

    "[Sage''s Unending Wisdom]."

    "[Sage''s Unending Mana]."

    "¡­"

    "[Endless Mana Reformation Art: Enhancement Style]¡­"

    "[Origin Rune of Offense]."

    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!

    Within mere moments, the aura surrounding Argentum spiked to an immense degree as the three felt overwhelming power coursing throughout his body. Deciding to distance themselves from him, they eagerly watched Argentum make his move, as well as the aftermath that was about toe.

    On the other hand, Argentum felt great amounts of strength course throughout his body, redirecting all of it towards the ends of his palms as he tapped into his energy, as well as the Greater Law he had forged.

    "I control the Origin, the essence of the universe."

    Fwoosh!

    At the end of his first statement, a small magic circle appeared in front of his palms. However, even that was enough to attract the attention of a few of the demon armies, prompting them to charge at him.

    "With my body as the vessel, and my will as the conductor, Imand the universe to listen to my words."

    Not long after, this magic circle greatly expanded its size, with multiple intricate runes appearing within it. At this point, a great portion of the demon armies were already halfway to where he was.

    "For my firstmand¡­"

    "Birth the universe anew."

    "[Divine True Origin Art]¡­"

    "¡­"

    "¡­"

    "[Advent]."

    ¡­

    ¡­

    Bang!

    Time for the battles to start.

    Hope you enjoyed the chapter!

 Chapter 452

    Chapter 452: Carnage

    ¡°[Divine True Origin Art]¡­¡±

    ¡°¡­¡±

    ¡°[Advent].¡±

    ¡­

    Bang!

    At the very instant he had finished uttering the name of the skill, a ball of multicolored energy quickly reced the massive magic circle he had created before soon expanding to great sizes not long after. Eventually, at a certain point, the ball had burst, causing a destructive wave of energy to wreak its havoc all around Argentum.

    Coming face to face with the destructive energy,  almost all of the demon armies charging towards Argentum were annihted without even leaving a trace of them being there. Some of themsted for a bit longer than their counterparts, however, the final result was the same.

    Utter destruction.

    With great fervor, the wave of destructive energy continued to spread throughout, taking on the appearance of a massive tsunami as the skill gained more and more momentum from the distance. At this point, some of the Depraved Deity armies that stood there shot out their attacks towards the waves of multicolored energy. However, just like those that were foolhardy enough toe closer to Argentum, their ends were the same.

    Eventually, the energy fueling the waves of mass destruction gradually died down, but not before taking the lives of hundreds, possibly thousand of demons at the level of Lesser Demons along with it. By the time it had disappeared, a decently sized gap in the armies¡¯ nks was left behind, with the remaining armies ring at Argentum once the dust had settled.

    However, rather than looking at Argentum with immense rage, feeling remorse for the fact that theirrades had died just like that, they instead looked at him with great greed, their judgment being clouded by the Sin of Hunger circting within their bodies. At that moment, only one question surfaced in their minds.

    What would happen I devour him?

    With that thought fueling their greed to greater degrees, more and more of the Depraved Deity armies broke off from their ranks, all of them making a mad dash towards Argentum to see who among them would be the one to sessfully devour him.

    Seeing their enemies madly dash at Argentum once more, Herellia¡¯s eyes could not help but glisten as she radiated immense battle intent. Rubbing her hands together in an effort to calm down, she eventually could not stop herself anymore as she looked at Horell. ¡°Hey, Horell. Buff me up. I¡¯m heading in.¡±

    ¡°You sure?¡± Horell asked in response, although he still circted energy towards his palms. ¡°From the looks of it, Argentum has everything under control.¡±

    ¡°And what difference would that make?¡± said Herellia, her expression now that of slight impatience. ¡°Just buff me up already. My hands are itching to test my new skills out.¡±

    ¡®Fine, fine. Here you go.¡± Realizing that there was not much he could do to dissuade her from not making a move, Horell inwardly let out a sigh as he shook his head. After that, he cast the same buffs he cast on Argentum on Herellia, increasing the intensity of her aura to what felt like the limits of what a Lesser God could achieve.

    With that, a slightly maniacal grin appeared on Herellia¡¯s face as a faint red haze soon shrouded her body. Then, without making a sound, she quickly made her way to where Argentum was.

    ¡°[Crimson Cadenza]¡­¡±

    ¡°[Ephemerality].¡±

    Whoosh!

    Before the next wave of demon armies were even halfway to making it close to Argentum, Herellia¡¯s lithe figure silently appeared beside him as the surroundings were colored a faint tinge of red for a short while. Noticing this, Argentum looked at the woman beside him before lightly grinning. ¡°I have a feeling I know why you¡¯re here. Want to make a move? I¡¯ll back you up if the numbers be overwhelming for you.¡±

    ¡°That would be great, but let¡¯s see how strong I¡¯ve be first,¡± said Herellia in response as she took in a deep breath. Then, with a solemn expression, the faint red haze gradually turned more and more corporeal as it eventually took on a tangible form, transforming into a set of sleek crimson armor that draped over her body.

    ¡°[Crimson Cadenza: First Encore].¡±

    Whoosh!

    Muttering out those words, she then disappeared from Argentum¡¯s field of vision, prompting Argentum to manipte a bit of his Greater Law in order to find out where she had gone. Fortunately, it did not take long for him to find her traces, noticing that a path of crimson haze was being made as she marked all of the demons she crossed. Thanks to the buffs Horell applied on her, as well as her innately high speed thanks to her ss, around 80% of the demons that were still heading towards Argentum had been marked with the red haze, prompting a knowing smile to appear on Argentum¡¯s face as he had a feeling as to what was going toe.

    Fwoosh!

    Eventually, she had reappeared once more, appearing among the Depraved Deity armies, which definitely shocked thetter as they had no clue as to how she had infiltrated this deep. However, before they could even make a move against her, she had disappeared from their sights once more as her voice resounded.

    ¡°[Sanguine Crescendo].¡±

    Bang! Bang! Bang!

    Seemingly in response to her words, all of the demons that were marked by the red haze soon exploded into nothingness as almost all of the demons still making their way towards Argentum disappeared. However, unlike Argentum¡¯s attack, which gradually died down after some time, Herellia¡¯s attack was much more vicious, with the haze that had scattered from the explosions of the demons marking even more demons.

    Satisfied with the number of demons that had been marked once more, she reappeared beside Argentum as she muttered, ¡°Burst.¡±

    Bang!

    Once again, a great number of the demons exploded into nothingness once more as red haze started to spread out of their bodies once more. Unfortunately, now that they had seen it ur once, the demon armies in the vicinity of the red haze knew what to do, making sure to move away from it as much as could. Although a few of the demons were still infected, their numbers were significantly fewer than before.

    ¡°Satisfied?¡± Argentum asked, noticing the grin Herellia currently had on her face.

    Hearing his question, Herellia looked at him with a nod. ¡°Definitely. But you know, we could always dish out more damage.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s what I was about to say,¡± said Argentum in response, chuckling as he realized how easy they were having it. ¡°Want me to buff the two of us so we can dish out even more damage?¡±

    ¡°Is that even something you should be asking me?¡± chuckled Herellia in response. ¡°You already know my answer to that.¡±

    ¡°But of course, I was just making sure.¡±

    Whoosh!

    ¡°[True Origin Enhancement Scripture: Lesser Metanoia]!¡±

    ¡°Well, since you¡¯re buffing me¡­ I might as well buff you too!¡±

    ¡°[Sanguine Benevolence: Blessing of the Divine Amaranth]!¡±

    Whoosh! Whoosh!

    With that, the two of them exhibited greater powers, briefly surpassing the limits of their current levels as they madly dashed towards the Depraved Deity armies without a care for the world.

    Seeing this, Horell could not help but watch from afar in shock, wondering what the hell had happened for the two of them to take the initiative and charge at the frontlines. With that, he could not help but look at Dalton, thinking that the man beside him would eventually make a move as well. ¡°Aren¡¯t you gonna join them?¡±

    ¡°Why should I? They¡¯re already taking care of the task as is,¡± said Dalton in response as he lightly shook his head. ¡°Plus, I¡¯m not really someone that¡¯s eager to fight.¡±

    Graah!!!

    Just as the two of them thought they would be safe by staying behind, a stray demon from the armies had seemingly found its way to where the two were, opening its jaw as a ck aura emanated from it.

    Unfortunately for the demon, Dalton had long since noticed its presence, turning around before quickly punching at the demon¡¯s stomach, infusing it with a great amount of his energy soon after. Then, without much fanfare, the demon¡¯s body exploded into nothingness as he shook off the remnants of the demon from his hand before turning back to look at Horell.

    ¡°Let me repeat myself. I definitely don¡¯t want to fight,¡± Dalton told Horell with a light smile on his face. However, now that he had just witnessed the man before him obliterate a demon without much difficulty, Horell could not help but think otherwise.

    Nevertheless, both Herellia and Argentum continued to wreak havoc among the ranks of the Depraved Deity armies, with each of their moves wiping out at least a few of them.

    But of course, all good things had toe to an end as the two eventually ran out of energy, still finding it difficult to conserve the energy they had. Then again, now that they¡¯d gained sufficient battle experience after thrashing the demons, they were certain that they be able to dish out damage using less energy for longer.

    With that, the two of them retreated, admiring therge hole they¡¯ve made on the ranks of Depraved Deity armies before them.  <!--

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 Chapter 453

    Chapter 453: The Proposition (Final Chapter)

    While retreating, the two met up with Horell and Dalton, with Horell being somewhat afraid thetter.

    ¡°Is something the problem?¡± Argentum could not help but ask, somewhat curious as to why Horell now acted around Dalton that way. In response to that, Dalton could only lightly smile. ¡°Well, just when we thought we were safe from the demons after you two seemed to annihte them all, a demon popped up from our backs out of nowhere. I guess he¡¯s still reeling from the shock he felt from that.¡±

    ¡°I see¡­¡± Although Argentum did find it somewhat odd that Dalton was the one who answered instead of Horell, he eventually threw it at the back of his head as it seemed that Horell would still get over it either way.

    With that, the four of them made their way back to where Kurohana and Aurus was, with thetter two looking at them with satisfied smiles on their faces. In fact, Kurohana seemed to have a proud expression on her face, especially while looking at Herellia and Argentum.

    ¡°So, how did we do, Kurohana? Did we aplish the task Nix gave you?¡± Argentum asked, to which Kurohana let out a chuckle in response. ¡°But of course. After all, I expected no less from you to do just that.¡±

    ¡°However, not only did you two go ahead and aplish the task with flying colors, you even went far beyond and caused mass chaos among the demons,¡± she added, showing how satisfied she was with what both Herellia and Argentum had done.

    Hearing Kurohana¡¯s words, Herellia could not help but be curious. ¡°When you said we went far beyond, how further did we go? You did say we had to kill around a hundred Depraved Deity armies, right?¡±

    Nodding, Kurohana replied, ¡°Indeed. You two did kill around a hundred Depraved Deity armies¡­¡±

    In response to those words, both Herellia and Argentum could not help but have the urge to say that if that was the case, then they¡¯d just killed the exact number of armies needed for them to aplish the task. But then, when she added one more word, the two of them looked at each other with great incredulity.

    ¡°¡­each.¡± Kurohana finished her sentence, prompting the two to reassess the level ofbat power they each held. As for Horell and Dalton, they could not help but look at each other before shaking their heads, thinking that there was no way the two of them would reach the same level ofbat power as the two battle junkies in front of them.

    Nevertheless, with the task aplished, that meant that the six could return to Kurohana¡¯s space and wait for another request from Nix to either annihte more Depraved Deity armies or kill some specific figures on the opposite side.

    However, just as they were about to turn around and leave the premises to head back, a small screen appeared in front of Kurohana¡¯s field of vision as the same beautiful woman in dark clothing had appeared on it once more, this time with a grin on her face. Compared to before, where her expression was slightly grim, it was a stark contrast. ¡°Hey, Kurohana! Why didn¡¯t you tell me you were hiding something like that around?!¡±

    ¡°What am I hiding?¡± replied Kurohana, though a slight knowing smile had adorned her face at this point.

    ¡°You know very well what I¡¯m talking about. Don¡¯t act dumb.¡± Seeing how her friend was acting, Nix could not help but let out a bit ofughter as she focused on the four behind Kurohana. ¡°But seriously, where did you find the time to find more people to help you out?¡±

    ¡°I didn¡¯t.¡± Kurohana shook her head. ¡°Instead, I helped them reached the levels they¡¯re at right now.¡±

    Then, focusing on Argentum, she continued, ¡°In fact, one of them even has a power that might turn the tides in our favor.¡±

    Of course, Nix didn¡¯t know what Kurohana meant by that. But if her close friend was that confident in the powers the four behind her had, then she didn¡¯t mind giving them the same level of trust as her friend did. ¡°I don¡¯t know what you mean by that, but I¡¯ll assume that it means good things.¡±

    ¡°In any case, are you guys willing to do a few more tasks?¡± she asked soon after. ¡°Of course, since Kurohana said that she raised you all to your current levels, I¡¯ll only give you tasks that require killing Depraved Deity armies for now. But as time passes, the difficulty will gradually ramp up.¡±

    ¡°Naturally, you¡¯ll bepensated for your efforts.¡± Wrapping her offer up, Nix asked them, ¡°So, how about it? Is it fine with you four?¡±

    Hearing Nix¡¯s offer, Argentum and the others looked at each other for a bit as they engaged in a hushed conversation. Eventually, all of them looked back at the screen as Argentum went forward. With the other three nodding at him, he nodded back before looking at Nix. ¡°We would be fine with that, but can we choose which tasks we can take?¡±

    In response to those words, Nix could only smile.

    ¡°With pleasure.¡±

    ¡­

    And thus, after their first skirmish with the opposing side, Argentum and the others went ahead and did the same thing on the other sectors of the Celestial ne, not holding back as they went far above and beyond the requirements of their tasks.

    Because of this, those that came across them would call them something that eventually stuck and became what they were known for.

    The Monstrous Quartet.

    As for Kurohana, who usually tagged along with them on their tasks, even though she already had multiple titles and des under her belt, she was also given a new title rted to that after most of them found out that she had birthed the Monstrous Quartet they knew.

    The Founder.

    Eventually, by the time two weeks had passed, their team had aplished so many tasks that many of the other gods believed that any task thrown at them would not only be sessful, but would even go a bit beyond that.

    Under their belt, they had killed thousands of Depraved Deities, dozens of True Demon Gods, and even one Grand Demon God, thetter already being at the level of an Immortal Verdict wielder.

    As to how a team of Lesser and Greater Gods had achieved what seemed to be the impossible, it was all thanks to Argentum¡¯s Greater Law, allowing him to tap into a level of power far beyond his level.

    Nevertheless, as they had already done so much for their side, even going so far as to reduce the burdens on their fast response teams, Nix had allowed their team to get their well-needed rest as the six of them leisurely made their way back to Kurohana¡¯s space.

    However, by the time they¡¯d arrived at the space, they quickly noticed that there was a person already within the space, prompting to be somewhat vignt.

    ¡°Who are you?¡± Kurohana took the initiative to ask, radiating a hint of her intent towards the person as she made it known that the space the person was in was her domain.

    In response to the question, the person lightly smiled as his voice had a strange cadence to it. ¡°Me? And here I thought you wouldn¡¯t ask.¡±

    Whoosh!

    Just as the six thought nothing much was going to happen while they were taking a rest, the exact opposite instead happened, with the white space faintly turning ck for a bit as a peculiar type of energy surrounded the space.

    Sensing the energy that had enveloped the space, Kurohana quickly understood what was happening, looking at the person with a hint of fear as she had felt a familiar aura from the energy. ¡°Are you¡­ who I think you are?¡±

    ¡°If you think you know who I am, then that¡¯s most likely the case.¡± The person lightly smiled in response, though the smile only gave Kurohana more chills.

    ¡°Who is this person, Kurohana?¡± Argentum could not help but ask, finding it somewhat difficult to talk under the effects of the peculiar energy.

    ¡°If my guess is correct, then in front of us¡­ is the Eternal Demon Sovereign,¡± Kurohana said in response, prompting everyone to go silent as the person in front of them let out a cackle. ¡°Don¡¯t call me by that, it sounds rude. Instead, call me by my name.¡±

    ¡°Ylhazar.¡±

    When the man uttered his name, a soft rumbling noise resounded throughout the space, as if the space was rejecting the name itself. However, the man radiated a bit of the energy in his body in response, nullifying the rumbling until it returned to silence.

    Seeing as all of their attention were on him, Ylhazar decided to initiate the conversation. ¡°Now, you might be wondering. Why is a being that¡¯s on the same level as your Overseer here in a ce where only Lesser and Greater Gods could be seen?¡±

    ¡°Is it because you¡¯re here to enact revenge on the demons we¡¯ve killed?¡± Argentum asked. But surprisingly, in response to the question, Ylhazar shook his head. ¡°Far from it.¡±

    ¡°I have no reason to kill you for such a petty thing. After all, it¡¯s the survival of the fittest in this ce,¡± he said. ¡°Instead, I¡¯m here for you.¡±

    As he said that, he pointed towards Argentum.

    At that moment, everyone could not help but look at Argentum, wondering if he had done something. However, even Argentum was left bewildered by the sudden answer. Pointing at himself, he asked, ¡°Me? Are you sure you¡¯re not mistaken?¡±

    ¡°Why would I mistaken someone else as the key?¡± Ylhazar said in response, which only confused everyone there in the space even further.

    Seeing their confused expressions, Ylhazar decided to exin. ¡°Your little friend here contains a certain power that would allow our universe to meld with your universe, turning it into onerge universe that could contend against the upper ranking universes.¡±

    Just as one of them was about to ask what he meant, he continued, ¡°Of course, I¡¯m certain you haven¡¯t explored what¡¯s beyond your universe. Well, let me tell you. Outside your universe, there exists a myriad number of universes, most of them ignorant to the fact that there are universes beyond theirs. However, some of them do know of this, allowing them to be the strongest universes in the multiverse we¡¯re in.¡±

    ¡°Their top powers are capable of wiping out our universes in one move. At the same time. Think about it. If we were to meld our universes together, the overall power of those at the Divinity level will greatly increase, allowing us to eventually be at the same level as them.¡±

    ¡°Haven¡¯t you ever wondered what exists beyond the universe you¡¯re in? Well, if your friend here epts his fate, I¡¯ll make sure everyone here will find out,¡± he concluded.

    Listening to Ylhazar¡¯s words, all of them could not help but go silent, with one of them pondering over it for quite some time. After all, he was the only one among them that was needed by Ylhazar.

    ¡°What do you mean by epting my fate?¡± Argentum decided to ask.

    ¡°Coming along with me and sacrificing your power to act as the bridge between our universes,¡± Ylhazar sinctly replied.

    ¡°And if I say no¡­?¡±

    ¡°Ohoho. You really think you have a choice here? Well, I¡¯ll give you one. It¡¯s either youe with me and ept your fate or witness the eventual destruction of your universe¡­¡±

    ¡°Your call.¡±

    ¡°¡­¡±

    ¡°¡­¡±

    With such an ultimatum like that, Argentum could not help but think about it for a bit. Then, when he thought he was finished thinking, he thought about it for a bit more. Eventually, he hade to a conclusion as he looked at the man that stood before him.

    ¡°I havee to a decision.¡±

    ¡°And what would that decision be?¡±

    ¡°¡­fuck you.¡±

    ¡°¡­¡±

    ¡°¡­¡±

    ¡°Then¡­ so be it.¡±

    ¡­

    End.

    ¡ª¡ª¨C

    And with that, I Reincarnated As A Stick hase to an end. I know there¡¯s a lot left to be desired from this novel, but after thinking about it, it¡¯s just better for me to move on.

    Without a doubt, I¡¯ve learned a lot from the novel as I wrote it. I¡¯ve also learned a lot from the feedback you gave me. It¡¯s what made me into what I am today.

    In fact, I thank all of you for sticking around with this novel till the very end. However, it¡¯s time for me to move on and branch out. I¡¯lle back and polish the beginning of the novel for the sole fact this is my first novel, as well as upload a few side stories in the future, exploring a couple what-if scenarios.

    But for now, thank you and may we meet again.

    -Truedawn  <!--

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    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!